Croatia Island Hopping

Croatia Island Hopping

1,238 Views
8 Days From

$2420

Croatia Island Hopping

8 Days Starting in Split and ending in Dubrovnik

Visiting: Split, Hvar, Korčula, Lumbarda, Pomena, Mljet, Šipan, Dubrovnik

Tour operator:

Explore!

Tour code:

DC

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

10 - 16

Physical rating:

Moderate

Age range:

16-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours

From: $2420

NB: Prices correct on 23-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Enjoy sun and sea with a side of culture, island hopping along Croatia's Dalmatian Coast. Tick the highlights off your list, uncovering the history of the country's terracotta-roofed cities, as well as the charm and beauty of its island life. Take every opportunity to unwind, with daily dips in the azure waters of the Adriatic, swimming, kayaking.

Dubrovnik - Explore the ancient history and architecture of the walled city's UNESCO-listed Old Town.
Korcula - Get off the beaten track to uncover the island's untouched corners and meet locals at a traditional farm.
Brac - Try stand-up paddle boarding or kayaking on one of Croatia's most- iconic beaches, Zlatni Rat - otherwise known as the Golden Cape.

Highlights

  • Week island-hopping holiday along Croatia's Dalmatian Coast

  • Explore the islands of Korcula, Mljet and feel the local vibe on Brac island

  • Indulge in food and wine with a visit to a local farm and winery

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Join Trip In Split

Location: Split

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Corner Split

Meals Included: Breakfast

Our tour starts today in Split, Croatia's second-largest city, picturesquely located on the Adriatic coast. With its blend of old and new, it provides the perfect introduction to Dalmatia.

If you'd like to receive a complimentary airport transfer today, you'll need to arrive into Split Airport (SPU), which is a 35-minute drive from our hotel.

For those arriving on time, our tour leader plans to meet you in the hotel reception at 6pm for a welcome meeting. Afterwards, for those who wish, there's the chance to go for dinner to sample local cuisine, followed by a walk through Split's old town, which has been granted UNESCO World Heritage status thanks to its historic charm. If you miss the welcome meeting, your Tour Leader will inform you of any essential information as soon as you catch up.

If you arrive earlier in the day, there's plenty to see in Split. The historic sites within the Palace of Diocletian are well worth a visit. Built to honour the Roman Emperor Diocletian, this huge residence makes up around half of the old city and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's widely regarded as the world's best-preserved Roman Palace. The city is also brimming with culture and has a host of excellent museums.

Day 2: Ferry To Brac And Discover Zlatni Rat Beach

Location: Split, Hvar

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Elaphusa

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning, you have the option to join a walking tour of the old town, guided by a local historian, or discover the winding streets independently. Meeting up in the late morning, we'll make our way to the harbour and board a ferry to Brac. Renowned for its beautiful beaches and rich cultural heritage, tranquil Brac offers a more authentic Croatian island experience than its neighbour island, Hvar. The journey takes one hour, crossing the azure waters with panoramic views of the coastline.

Our base for the next two nights is a premium hotel in Bol. Most well-known for Zlatni Rat beach, rated as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Bol has plenty on offer. After a short orientation tour and lunch in the town centre, we'll have free time to explore the island independently.

You might like to head straight to Zlatni Rat Beach, which is only a short walk from our hotel, alternatively, you can relax by the pool. You can also hire bikes from the hotel to cycle along the scenic coastal roads of Brac, immersing yourself in the island's landscapes and discovering hidden gems. Another option is to rent a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard to get out on the turquoise waters and marvel at the stunning coastline.

In the evening, there is a wide variety of restaurants and bars to choose from. Most restaurants offer local and Mediterranean specialities, the most popular being 'lamb on a spit' and 'octopus under Peka.' If you like trying different food, you should definitely try 'Vitalac,' which is an authentic dish from the island.

Day 3: Hike To Blaca Hermitage, Explore Old Military Tunnels By Boat

Location: Hvar

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Elaphusa

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning, we'll take a leisurely walk to the harbour, where we'll board a boat to Blaca Bay. On arrival, we'll hike to one of Croatia's best-hidden gems, Blaca Hermitage, a secluded canyon where Glagolitic priests established a hermitage in the 16th century. The hike is about 40 minutes (2 kilometres/1.2 miles) along a scenic trail leading to the monastery. While the hike isn't difficult, comfortable sturdy footwear is recommended! The monastery offers a glimpse into a different era when monks lived in harmony with nature. We'll explore the hermitage's architecture, and historical artefacts, and learn about the monks who once resided here.

After our visit, we'll hike back down to our boat, where we'll take lunch onboard (not included). There'll be time for a refreshing swim before we sail off to explore the old navy military tunnels. We'll return to Bol in the late afternoon and the evening is at your leisure.

Day 4: Morning Sail To Korcula Island, Hike In The Kocje Nature Reserve And Agro-Tourism Farm Visit

Location: Korčula, Lumbarda, Korčula

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Aminess - Marko Polo Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, we'll leave Brac behind us and take a scenic fast ferry (a two-hour journey) to Korcula, lying in the centre of the archipelago. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the mesmerizing views of the Adriatic Sea as we sail towards our next destination.

Korcula is known for its interior of dense pine forests, which once supplied the Venetians with timber for their vast fleets. It's also known for its vineyards, which produce some excellent white wines from their indigenous Grk variety of grapes - you might like to enjoy a tipple while we're here.

We'll make our way to the Kocje Nature Reserve, a hidden gem known for its untouched forests, interesting rock formations dressed in moss and resident fairies (according to local legend). We'll head towards a family farm where traditional agricultural practices are upheld, making them the first ecological olive oil producers on the island. We'll meet the family and learn about their history and the different produce that's grown on the estate before indulging ourselves in a food-tasting experience featuring a variety of locally sourced delicacies such as freshly harvested fruits, artisanal cheeses, homemade preserves, and other traditional delights that showcase the rich culinary heritage of Korcula.

Following the tasting, we'll say goodbye to the family and walk through the nature reserve observing strange rock formations and tall trees. The subdued daylight that permeates through the trees, gives you the feeling of being in the middle of a jungle. As we explore the trails, keep an eye out for native wildlife and unique plant species.

Today's leisurely 6-kilometre/3.7-mile hike is expected to take around two hours with some short uneven sections with boulders.

We'll transfer back to the charming town of Korcula where we'll explore the medieval streets, see the historic sites, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this ancient, fortified town. In the evening, you're free to explore Korcula's renowned restaurants or taverns.

Day 5: Full Day Excursion To Mljet Island With The Option To Walk, Swim, Kayak Or Cycle

Location: Pomena, Mljet

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Aminess - Marko Polo Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning, we'll take a 40-minute fast ferry out to the lush and beautiful Mljet Island. Awarded National Park status in 1962, the island is the greenest in Croatia and home to just one hotel. It's otherwise made up of verdant green forests, turquoise lakes, sheltered coves lapped by crystal-clear waters and white-sand beaches.

Our tour leader will give us a short orientation walk to the lakes to get your bearings and will run through your options for today. The rest of the day is free. There are a variety of ways to explore the island's lush interior and lakes either by foot or bicycle on well-signposted trails or perhaps by kayak. Near Pomena there are plenty of beaches to choose to relax on, and a choice of restaurants serving up locally produced food and wine.

The ferry this evening back to Korcula is due to depart at 5pm.

Day 6: Travel To Dubrovnik Via The Peljsac Peninsula, Wine Tasting And Visit The Walled City Of Ston

Location: Šipan, Dubrovnik

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Lero Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning, we'll start our journey with a short ferry transfer to the Peljesac peninsula before continuing through the picturesque Croatian countryside by minibus, making our way towards Dubrovnik.

Our first stop will take us to a charming winery, where we'll have the opportunity to indulge in a delightful wine-tasting experience. We'll sample a selection of exquisite local wines, learn about the winemaking process, and savour the unique flavours that this region has to offer.

We'll continue our journey, making our way to the town of Ston. Known for its impressive defensive walls, which are the second longest in the world, Ston offers a fascinating glimpse into Croatia's rich history. We'll take a leisurely stroll through the town, admire the ancient architecture, and perhaps indulge in some local delicacies, such as the renowned Ston oysters or delicious seafood dishes.

After our visit to Ston, we'll travel to our final destination, the spectacular walled city of Dubrovnik. Like many Croatian cities, Dubrovnik has seen its share of conquerors and settlers, each adding their own contributions to the city we see today. Extensive renovations during the 1990s and into the 2000s have meant that the city is excellently preserved, its old walls housing tiled roofs and white-washed buildings in all their splendour that give the illusion of stepping back in time.

Upon arrival in Dubrovnik, we'll settle into our premium accommodation where we'll have the evening at leisure. Our hotel is located in the sought-after Lapad peninsula with its beautiful promenade by the sea, where you can find plenty of local restaurants and bars. If you prefer to have dinner in the Old Town, you can easily reach it by bus or taxi.

Day 7: Morning Guided Walking Tour Of Dubrovnik, Free Afternoon To Explore The Unesco World Heritage City

Location: Dubrovnik

Accommodation Name: Lero Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

In the morning, we'll take the public bus to the Old Town for a walking tour led by a historian.

Starting from Pile Square on the eastern side of Dubrovnik, we'll snake our way through the maze of narrow streets and lively piazzas to take in the Sponza Palace, housing the city's archives, and the intricately carved baroque church of St Blaise. Continuing through the main thoroughfare of Stradun, we'll walk down the Jesuit Staircase, perhaps better known as the 'Steps of the Great Sept of Bailor' used for the 'Walk of Shame' scene in Game of Thrones. Finally, we'll end at the magnificent Rector's Palace, another filming location but an incredible example of Gothic architecture in its own right.

The afternoon is free for you to explore the city by yourself. There is so much to see and do in this charming city. Other highlights include the cable car to Mount Srd, a walk in Konavle Valley or there are specialist tours based around Game of Thrones. If you want to walk along the Dubrovnik City Walls, we suggest you buy a Dubrovnik Card which gives you access to many sights as well as public transport around Dubrovnik.

Day 8: Trip Ends In Dubrovnik

Meals Included: Breakfast

Our trip ends today at our hotel in Dubrovnik.

There are no activities planned today, so you're free to depart at any time. If your flight is departing later in the day, luggage storage facilities are available at our hotel.

If you'd like to receive a complimentary airport transfer today, you'll need to depart from Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) which is a 35-minute drive from our hotel.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    6 nights comfortable hotel

  • Airport Transfers at Destination

    Complimentary airport transfer to Split Airport (SPU) on first day and Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) on last day of tour.

  • Fully Guided

  • All Domestic Transportation (including internal flights)

  • Meals

    As detailed within the itinerary

What's Not Included

International Travel

Meals

Breakfasts: 8
Lunches: 1

Check out our Q&As

  • What is the fitness level required to do this tour?

    Moderate

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights are not included however domestic flights are included.

  • Will passengers from another country be participating in the tour?

    Yes

  • Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?

    Yes

  • Are airport transfers included in this tour?

    Yes, complimentary airport transfer is provided on the first and last day of tour.

  • Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

    Yes, minimum age 16 years or above.

  • Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

    Yes

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes

  • What is the maximum group size?

    16

  • I'm going on a walking/cycling trip-do I need to train?

    It will depend on the grade and how fit you already are. Check the trip page for details of the walking or cycling grade and how far you’ll be walking/cycling each day. For moderate or challenging trips in particular we’d recommend doing some walks or cycles before you leave to build up your fitness and prepare you for the distances being covered.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    We have a wide range of ages nationalities on our small group trips and they come from all walks of life.

  • Should I get travel insurance?

    Yes–it is a condition of booking that you are fully insured when travelling with us

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    At Explore, we're the experts in adventure travel. Our small group adventure holidays have been running since 1981. Today, Explore is one of the most trusted travel companies in the UK with over 500 trips to more than 120 countries.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Yes, but there are no concessions for doing so, and we must have a record in your booking advising as such before the trip departs.

  • Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?

    Being a responsible company is a large statement, something that has to be entwined within the very fibre of a company. Discover the charities and partnerships we support as part of this at https://www.explore.co.uk/about/sustainability/charities-and-partners

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    We want to be as clear as and as honest as possible about what happens if you decide to that you no longer wish to travel on your trip. Our booking conditions have details of the costs you’ll incur when you cancel-these charges depend on how long it is before your planned departure.

  • What is the accommodation like?

    We choose comfortable accommodation in the best locations possible. We opt for small, local and family-run accommodation where we can, as opposed to large chain hotels. We typically use hotels that are the equivalent of European 3-star, and you’ll usually have an en suite room. Occasionally, where we want to get off the beaten trail we may stay in more basic accommodation.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Sustainability is embedded within the fibre of Explore, it emanates from the inside out. But as we enter a new decade it is clearer than ever that our world needs help, and Explore has created a sustainability strategy based on the 2015 UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Our flexible booking and safety policies mean you're protected before and during your travels with us. Receive a full refund if your trip is cancelled, transfer your trip free of charge up to 10 days before departure minus any irrocoverable costs.

  • Do I need to be very fit to book with you?

    All our trips require some level of active participation. This could be on a cultural trip, trek, safari, expedition or voyage. It is in the interests of all members of the group that everyone should be capable of fully participating in the activities of their chosen trip.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Final documents will include a comprehensive trip itinerary, climate and country information, budgeting and packing advice visa and passport information and details on optional activities available.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Yes on most of our trips. Most trips are based on customers sharing twin-bedded rooms. If you book a group trip as an individual, you will share a room with someone of the same sex. However, on many trips we offer the opportunity to pay a supplement to pre-book a single room, known as our single room option. On some trips a single room will be provided every night, on others it will be provided o

  • Do we have to be vaccinated against Covid-19 to travel

    It’s now a condition of booking a trip with us that customers should have one of the following before they travel - — Be vaccinated against COVID, having received the full recommended course, and allowing enough time for immunity to take effect. Full vaccination includes any booster required to keep the vaccine valid. — Have taken a negative test (rapid antigen or PCR) within 72hrs of departure.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Explore will only offer hotels that have specific COVID-19 protocols in place and comply with local government guidelines. We will ensure these measures include; enhanced room cleaning, ventilation, social distancing, regular cleaning and disinfection of high frequency touch points in public areas, food safety, staff re-training and minimising contact within the properties.

Reviews of this operator

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Gemma Jackson  

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02-Jan-2023

I booked for my husband and I to go on the Peru Encompassed trip with the 3 day Amazon extension trip tagged on the end, we also booked to go to Lima few days early to get over the jetlag and see something of Lima before setting off on the group trip. Everything was booked for us by Explore! with seamless ease and without any hitches. This was the first time I had booked onto an organised trip so I was a bit concerned it might not be for us. How wrong I was. We were a group of 9, ranging from 30s to 60s, and a mixture of couples and singles and different nationalities. As a group we gelled really well and chose to spend most of our free time together which made the trip great fun. As for the trip itself, it surpassed all expectations. The Peru Encompassed trip was superb. I don't think any other country offers so much culture, wildlife, specular scenery and amazing food, all of which we experienced in abundance on the trip. We had a local tour guide for the whole trip who was fantastic and then expert guides joined us on different legs of the journey. We learned so much as a result. The highlights for me were visiting the local market in Arequipa with our guide and sampling lots of different fruit and street foods, the day on Lake Titicaca and of course Machu Picchu itself. We booked an additional trip to go back ourselves the second morning which was great as we could do a different route around the ruins and get different views from the afternoon before. Our final highlight was the additional 3 day trip to the Amazon staying at the Hacienda Conception. The lodges were immersed in the jungle which was wonderful if noisy! the food was fab and the daily trips provided were excellent. It was a great relaxing way to end the trip although it did rain quite a bit. Both my husband and I said our trip to Peru was one of the best trips we have ever done.

Trustpilot
Ms D Brown  

Excellent company

07-Dec-2022

Excellent company, there are so many trips, you really get looked after. Everything is dealt with by your Tour Leader, all logistics are taken care of and usually things go smoothly, I only use explore because I know what to expect each time, that makes me happy, with a stress free holiday

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Barbara in Beckenham  

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' Steina was a great guide - full of information made the trip so interesting ' Everything was just perfect - just as I had hoped - except the Northern lights were a no show!

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Prices last published on 22-Dec-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Explore! allows you to make 1 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 70 days before the start of the tour.

  • Low Deposit

    Explore! requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of explore! charges.

    Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 41 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 27 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.

    At 13 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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