11 Days: Classic highlights of Croatia: inland, islands and coastline

This trip is an extended version of classic highlights and extras that we believe are worthy of visiting during 11 days in Croatia. We always try to do signature trips and provide more of the country for the complete experience in a period of time. On this trip, you will explore Croatia from continental Croatia to the dalmatian coast and islands. You will visit Old towns, medieval fortresses, and learn all about Croatian history and culture – local specifics of the areas you are visiting, the uniqueness of the architecture, and local legend and stories. You will see two of the eight National parks ( Plitvice and Krka), five of the twelve UNESCO sites( Plitvice, Zadar walls, Trogir, Diocletian’s Palace in Split, Dubrovnik Oldtown, and Ston as the place on the UNESCO access list, Islands Hvar, Korčula, charming Elafiti and more.

Why us and why this tour?

Why us and why this tour? We will take you to places you would not see on your own and try to the avoid crowd as much as possible!

This covers a lot of Croatia, and you will it see-through local eyes and learn about it. It is done by local-born, experienced, and awarded licensed guides who mostly work via word of mouth because we care and give flexibility like no other. All pictures are our own, 100% authentic, and represent the trips as it is! The trip can be done for 2 people only, and it is great for a group of friends.

On-demand this trip can be done as a self-guided version as well!

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HIGHLIGHTS

National parks Plitvice lakes and Krka
Split, Zadar and Dubrovnik Old towns
Ston and Pelješac peninsula wine region
Hvar and Korčula island
Elafiti islands and Blue cave
UNESCO sites and hidden gems

BRIEF ITINERARY

Day	Activities	Location	Overnight
1	Arrival to Croatia, Zagreb and sightseeing	Zagreb	Zagreb
2	Explore Zagorje region and visit medieval castles of North	Zagorje	Zagreb
3	Exploring and hiking Plitvice Lakes National Park	Plitvice lakes	Plitvice lakes area
4	Visit to Zadar town and overnight in Skradin	Zadar	Skradin
5	Explore National park Krka and Diocletians palace in Split	National park Krka and Split	Split
6	Visit to Hvar town and island	Hvar	Hvar
7	Visiti to Korčula town and island	Korčula	Korčula
8	Pelješac peninsula and Ston	Pelješac	Ston
9	Private boat trip to Elaphiti islands - Lopud and Koločep	Elafiti	Dubrovnik
10	Dubrovnik old town and the city walls	Dubrovnik	Dubrovnik
11	Departure from Dubrovnik or extension

FULL ITINERARY

11 Days: Classic highlights of Croatia: inland, islands and coastline

Day 1: Arrival to Croatia, Zagreb and sightseeing

Welcome to Croatia and its capital Zagreb. Upon your arrival at the airport, you will be welcomed with your name on a sign and transferred to your hotel in Zagreb center. Zagreb is the capital and the biggest city in Croatia, the administrative center of the country with about 800 000 people living in it. The city center is easily walkable, and there are no worries to get lost. Your schedule today depends on your arrival time. If you arrive early enough you may take a guided tour of the city to learn about local attractions. We suggest walking the Lower town and walking Gradec and Kaptol, two historic parts of Zagreb. Attractions you will see along the way are Ban Jelačić square, Catherdal, St.Mark Square, and more. If you would like to see the unusual thing we suggest visiting the Museum of broken relationships! All the main attractions and restaurants are within walking distance from your hotel. Once again, WELCOME!

Day 2: Explore Zagorje region and visit medieval castles of North

Today you can explore the northwest part of of Croatia called Hrvatsko Zagorje. Many know about Croatia from sports and picture postcards of the beautiful coast, but there is so much more than just a coastline! The northern area of Croatia is known for its little hills and castles. Today you will visit Trakošćan castle, probably the most picturesque one in Croatia. The whole property was owned by local nobles and its original settings inside make it one of the most authentic museums today in Croatia. Next to the castle, there is a lake with a walking path from where you can take great pictures of the castle. After Trakošćan you can visit Veliki Tabor castle. These 2 castles are very different. One is very well preserved and another is restored. Like many castles, Veliki Tabor one is also associated with tragic stories and legends that you will learn about upon your visit. This part of Croatia, apart from castles, hides more interesting places to see like the Old authentic village of Kumrovec. It is made of restored old houses with an example of local crafts that were done in not so recent past. The village of Kumrovec is also famous as the birthplace of TITO former Yugoslavian president. After exploring the North of Croatia, you will drive back to Zagreb for overnight!

Day 3: Exploring and hiking Plitvice Lakes National Park

Today you will explore Plitvice lakes, the most famous Croatian National Park. The lakes of Plitvice are a unique design of nature famous across the globe for their beauty. Since 1979 the Park has been a part of the UNESCO World Heritage register. Plitvice is home to about one-third of all known orchids in Croatia and more than 150 species of birds. During this day you will walk the chosen paths, through mostly beech forests, and see many waterfalls. You will experience the best sights the park has to offer which will provide a great opportunity to take many photos. In the national park, there are 16 named lakes, and many small ones, that you will walk around, however, it is only 2 % of the park in total. The rest of the park is forests, and some places are not even allowed for visitors. It takes about 4-5 hours to do the loop of the lakes from Lower lakes to Upper and back!

Day 4: Visit to Zadar town and overnight in Skradin

Today you will leave continental Croatia and go to Dalmatia where you will explore Zadar. One of the places that are worth visiting in Dalmatia is the historic peninsula of Zadar. A unique place, and the biggest north Dalmatian town. There is a lot to be seen and do in Zadar, from ancient Roman ruins that you can walk above on the glass floor to one of the best ice cream places in Dalmatia. Zadar is gaining popularity more and more lately thanks to 2 unique modern pieces of art: Greetings to the Sun and Sea pipe organs.In Zadar, you can see layers of history, from Roman ruins, through medieval buildings to modern architecture. And, this is the place with one of the best ice creams you will find in Croatia. After exploring Zadar, you will go to Skradin. Skradin is a small town and marina, at the entrance of the National Park Krka so you would be between the first ones in the morning to visit the park and avoid the crowd!

Day 5: Explore National park Krka and Diocletians palace in Split

soul-of-croatia-tours-hiking-krka-skradinski-buk

Today you will explore another beautiful highlights of Croatia, the National park Krka. Krka is the name of the 72.5 km long river and the river itself with 7 waterfalls for most of that length is a National park. After exploring the biggest waterfall, Skradinski Buk, you will drive to see another waterfall and area called Roški slap. Roški slap is a less busy area, and it offers an opportunity for nice walks or hikes in the area. For the end, we suggest visiting little Islet Visovac in the middle of the river with a still active Franciscan monastery on it. You probably will not see any monks but the local guide will take you on a 20 min tour of the island. Apart from the beautiful waterfalls, the Park is also well known for its multiple endemic species of birds, fish, and amphibians. Did you know: You can also visit, as part of the park, a place which used to host the oldest power plant( 1895) in Europe. People in the neighboring Šibenik area were the first ones in Europe with electricity. After Krka, you will go to Split. Diocletian's palace in Split Split is the second biggest town in Croatia and the biggest one in Dalmatia. It is known for Diocletian’s palace –built at the turn of the fourth century AD as a haven for the Roman emperor Diocletian. Although the palace has changed its appearance over the centuries, with its surroundings becoming a medieval city, it is still one of the best-preserved examples of antique palaces. Some not-to-be-missed sites within the palace include the Peristil, Golden Gate, and St Gregory statue, and the cathedral and local promenade. Diocletian’s palace is built in the 4th century and since 1979 it is on a UNESCO heritage list as one of 12 UNESCO locations in Croatia. The picturesque center is perfect for sightseeing and long walks among its numerous streets and historical monuments, beautiful architecture from Roman to modern times. We suggest visiting the substructures of the palace since they are very well preserved and in original size as in Roman times.

Day 6: Visit to Hvar town and island

Soul-of-croatia-hiking-cycling-hvar-tours-adventure-walls

Today you leave Split and explore the Dalmatian coast. You will visit Hvar, one of the most popular Croatia islands. More than on average 2700 sunny hours yearly makes this island a desirable place to be on and to enjoy all the beauties of the Mediterranean climate. Island has a long history, and has been inhabited for thousand years, as there is a lot of material proof of the old settlements on the island. One of the most important ones is the Old fields in Stari Grad (Old town), being in untouched shape for about 2000 years. or to be more precise since 284 B.C. Today, fields in Starigrad are under UNESCO protection as one of 12 UNESCO locations in Croatia.You will explore the Old town of Hvar, and suggest walking to the fortress above the town for the best scenic view of the whole town and the sea in front. The fortress, called Fortica(Španjola) is mentioned first in the 13th century, and it is part of the gratification system around Old town Hvar. Swimming or wine tasting is always an option while on Hvar. Enjoy!

Day 7: Visiti to Korčula town and island

sailing-korcula-dalmatian-islands-soul-of-croatia-classic

Today you will leave Hvar and continue exploring the Dalmatian coast. Your next destination is Korčula island and the town. The name of this Croatian island i derives from the Greek -Korkyra, which gives you an idea that this island was inhabited in B.C in Greek times. Even before the Greeks were here there was life on the island as archeologists found proof of human presence older than 7000 years. Korčula today is known for its beauty, hidden beaches, and authentic indigenous local white gapes and wines, Grk and Pošip. The Old Town Korčula is one of the finest examples of Venetian architecture on the Dalmatian coast, and most likely the birthplace of Marko Polo since it is known that the Polo family originates from this place. Small as it is, Korčula town is easy for exploring on foot!

Day 8: Pelješac peninsula and Ston

Soul-of-croatia-ston-private-tours-and-trips-pelješac-dalmatian-coast

Today you will explore Pelješac, the second biggest Croatian peninsula and a synonym for red wines, or as the locals call it- black wine. Pelješac is situated in Dubrovnik county known for its natural beauty and for 2 brands, Ston and Dingač. Ston is one of the very rare 100% planned and built Croatian cities on the Croatian coast, known for - the longest fortified system in Europe, Ston city walls,-oldest active salt plant on the whole Mediterranean, still active and still producing salt as they did in the 14th century and for-a long tradition of growing oysters and mussels. Another thing that Pelješac is known for, is red wine. The whole peninsula is basically a wine region and Pelješac is home to the most famous red wine in Croatia, which got its name by the position where is grown - Dingač. This position of Dingač is unique for its steep slopes, up t 70 degrees, and since 1964 its protected by the Geneva convention for its authenticity. Only the wine from these vineyards can be called Dingač and nowhere else in Croatia, or the World. Your route will go through the peninsula and through one of the most scenic roads through the Dingač region along the way, you can stop at some of the most famous local wineries for wine tasting. You would spend the afternoon and evening in Ston. We recommend walking the Ston walls as the main attraction in town. You would have a flexible schedule today, depending on your preferences.

Day 9: Private boat trip to Elaphiti islands - Lopud and Koločep

Today in the morning you will explore Dubrovnik Archipelago and Elafiti islands. Some of the most popular ones are Lopud and Koločep as this is the best 1-day boat trip in the area. Small as they are, with no cars on the islands are the perfect crowd getaway. Both of these islands have only about 100+ people living on them. These islands are also rare places with real sandy beaches on the Dalmatian coast. Most of the coast is rocky and rugged, so places like this are highly appreciated in Croatia. The Lopud island once functioned as the summer residence for Dubrovnik’s nobility, while also being an important agricultural spot, but nowadays tourism became the focal point of the local economy. There is only one village on Lopud with the same name. Lopud and Koločep boat trip The interesting fact is that the highest palm trees on the whole Mediterranean age grow on this little island. Another island - Koločep, is the Southernmost inhabited island in Croatia. It is only 2.4 square miles big, with approximately 100 people living on it during the whole year. There are no cars on Koločep, or as the local people call it Kalamota, and it is great for walking/hiking on it. This jewel of green oases is only 20 minutes from Dubrovnik with a boat and once you walk on it seems like you are somewhere far away from the city crowd. Local secret: on this island, you will find a great little family-run restaurant that serves the best-grilled calamari you will find in Croatia! If you like scenic walks both of these two islands have a beautiful seaside path on the Southside of the islands.Today, you will have options for swimming, snorkeling, easy walking, hiking, and cave visit, you name it.

Day 10: Dubrovnik old town and the city walls

Dubrovnik- as titled - The Pearl of the Adriatic, UNESCO site with the biggest walls in Europe. You will be introduced to a rich history of Dubrovnik on a guided tour if preferred, where you will be encouraged to ask any questions you might have about this fascinating place. You will walk the main street Stradun, see Onorfious fountain, Rectors palace, Old port, Orlando's column, and more. We suggest walking the city walls, the second biggest in the world. At places, the wall is approximately 75 ft high, which makes it a great sightseeing point to take photos of beautiful scenery. We also recommend visiting Mt SRĐ, where at the very top of the hill still proudly stands a fortress Imperial built at the beginning of the 19th century by Napoleon’s army. At the top of the hill, you will see Dubrovnik and the area as on your palm. You can take the cable car to go to Srđ, hike up, take a taxi, or you will be taken there if part of your program! We are sure you would like to explore the city, so do not be afraid to get lost in many stone streets. The town is quite small and where ever you go you will end with the walls, or just go down and you will always end on the level of the main street. In the last couple of years, Dubrovnik gained some popularity by being Kings Landing in the series Game of Thrones, so you might recognize a few movie locations as you walk around. Dubrovnik is full of restaurants and there are lots of options to choose from for lunch or dinner. If you would like to go for a swim, on both sides of the Old town there are pebble beaches! Enjoy!

Day 11: Departure from Dubrovnik or extension

Dubrovnik city walls Dalmatian islands soul of croatia acdc

Today is your departure day.You will be transferred to the airport in accordance with your schedule!Thank you very much for visiting Croatia, hope you had a nice time while exploring, and that you will go home with nice memories! Those who are staying extra time in Croatia will be given instructions according to their schedule. If someone would like to stay more in Dubrovnik on their own or extend their stay in Croatia, we will be happy to help or assist in any way.

Additional notes

All of our trips as private ones at the moment.Any of our trips can be customized towards individual wishes, preferences, and budget!This trip can be done in a self-guided version as well!Feel free to request a call for more details.

Included

Airport transfers, to/from
10 nights’ accommodation
National parks’ entrance fees
Ground transportation – private vehicle
Boat and ferry tickets
Gas, tolls, parking
Licensed English-speaking local driver-guide
Private city tours of Split and Dubrovnik
Ston city walls and Dubrovnik city walls entrance fees
Private boat and skipper for Elafiti Islands( snorkel equipment, towels)
Local tax and fees
VAT

Not included

International airfare to/from Croatia
Food and drinks
Optional trips
What is not mentioned as included

Price

Please contact us for pricing info at info@soulofcroatia.com

The price depends on the time of the year, number of people and level of accommodation.

Contact

Think outside the box. Your trip can be anything you choose it to be. We can customize any kind of itinerary, so feel free to choose any combination of activities or places or add something from your bucket list and contact us to create your perfect trip.

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Reviews

Oct 28. 2024 byDale M

Superb job in Croatia and Slovenia

Soul Of Croatia did a suberb job for us in the fall of 2024. We opted for a two week coastline trip, starting in Ljubljana, Slovenia all the way down to Dubrovnik with side trips into Bosnia and Montenegro. Our group of six didn't want to drive a large vehicle (nor multiple vehicles) in unfamiliar countries and Robi (at SoC) set us up with several excellent drivers (shout outs to Baldo The Great and especially Mario!) who were all knowledgeable and entertaining the entire time. Robi had lots of good advice and suggestions on which locations were don't-miss, timing between places we wanted to see, and even insight into restaurant suggestions ("Tell them Robi sent you!" :-D ). We peppered him with questions throughout the trip via WhatsApp and he was always quickly responsive with suggestions and ideas. Overall, we all could not have have been happier with Robi and the whole Soul Of Croatia crew!

Oct 21. 2024 byRita Z

Sailing trip with friends

This trip surpassed our expectations. Every single minute was perfect. Our captain, Goran and first mate/guide, Borna were hospitable, fun, informative and experienced. We couldn’t ask for a better trip. Thank you for your hospitality, time and fun!

Oct 20. 2024 byAllan Ptack

6 Star Experience with Daniela and Rob

Words cannot describe what a fantastic trip we had in Croatia. Daniela and her husband Rob were put together the perfect itinerary that exceeded expectations. Accommodations (mix of hotels and air b&b's, activities, transfers, transportation....everything was like a well oiled machine. Everyday, we looked forward to receiving the next day's activities with pins for all destinations, food recommendations from best gelato to best seafood! We felt like we had a guardian angel and were always able to contact them via What'sApp. Indeed, on our way home, we left our mobile phone in the cab. We called Rob and within 15 minutes the driver returned to the airport. Crisis averted!Honestly, the quality of our trip; the reassurance that all accommodations were solid; knowing we had a reliable contact in case of any issues was worth every penny! We won't hesitate to book another trip and for anyone considering travel to Croatia Rob and Daniela were 6 stars!

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11 Days: Classic highlights of Croatia: inland, islands and coastline

11 Days: Classic highlights of Croatia: inland, islands and coastline

Why us and why this tour?

HIGHLIGHTS

BRIEF ITINERARY

FULL ITINERARY

11 Days: Classic highlights of Croatia: inland, islands and coastline

Day 1: Arrival to Croatia, Zagreb and sightseeing

Day 2: Explore Zagorje region and visit medieval castles of North

Day 3: Exploring and hiking Plitvice Lakes National Park

Day 4: Visit to Zadar town and overnight in Skradin

Day 5: Explore National park Krka and Diocletians palace in Split

Day 6: Visit to Hvar town and island

Day 7: Visiti to Korčula town and island

Day 8: Pelješac peninsula and Ston

Day 9: Private boat trip to Elaphiti islands - Lopud and Koločep

Day 10: Dubrovnik old town and the city walls

Day 11: Departure from Dubrovnik or extension

Additional notes

Included

Not included

Price

Contact

Reviews

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