Croatia & the Dalmatian Coast - Upper Deck
Croatia & the Dalmatian Coast - Upper Deck
Croatia & the Dalmatian Coast - Upper Deck
14 Days Starting in Zagreb and ending in Dubrovnik
Visiting: Zagreb, Opatija, Pula, Istria, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Split, Trogir, Krka National Park, Skradin, Šibenik, Kornati National Park, Telašćica, Sali, Mali Losinj, Zadar, Primošten, Ston, Dubrovnik
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Special diets catered:
Please advise request
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, Wildlife Tours
Activities:
Tour Overview
See spectacular Croatia on this 2-Week guided tour including a week-long luxury cruise. Enjoy a mix of medieval and modern sightseeing with a Local Expert in Zagreb. See hundreds of waterfalls at Plitvice Lakes National Park, then journey to the Opatija Riviera for striking views of the Adriatic Sea. Hunt for truffles with a local farmer and his hound dogs in Istria. Explore the Museum of Apoxyomenos, allowing you unparalleled access to its 2,000-year-old Greek bronze statue. Savor oysters straight from the sea in the picturesque fishing village of Mali Ston, then tour the marble streets of Old Town Dubrovnik with a Local Expert. Later, choose to walk the city’s expansive walls or visit its world-class museums.
Choice Highlights
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Dubrovnik: Archaeology, art, natural history, traditional culture, maritime history. Choose from the many museums in this fascinating city with your Dubrovnik Pass.
- Dubrovnik: With your included Dubrovnik Pass hike around the impressive City Walls and take in the mesmerizing views of the myriad of red roofs and the dazzling Adriatic.
Make Travel Matter
Plitvice Lakes National Park: Find yourself in paradise on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience in the breath-taking Plitvice Lakes National Park. On your unforgettable exploration, team up with a Local Expert to learn about the Park’s invaluable research and conservation of its native species.
Exceptional Dining
Zagreb: Meet your Travel Concierge and fellow travelers for dinner at Boban, a famous Zagreb restaurant.
Istria: Learn about the aromatic 'black diamonds' and join a local farmer and his well-trained hounds to hunt for truffle, and sample a selection of salamis, spreads and cheeses prepared with this gourmet delicacy.
Plitvice Lakes National Park: Taste local dishes before your visit to Plitvice Lakes
Split: Dine onboard your ship, the MV Markan.
Ston: The quiet town of Mali Ston, set beneath a hilltop fortress has become famous for the mussels and oysters that thrive in its salt-rich channel. Stroll out to the floating oyster beds and, with a cooling ocean breeze in the air, savor fresh, briny oysters straight from the sea. Enjoy more of the region’s tempting cuisine over lunch prepared with seasonal ingredients.
Dubrovnik: At your Celebration Dinner, raise a glass and savor local dishes toasting to new places and memories.
Skradin: Specialists in boutique wine production, the Bibich vineyards are over 500 years old. With a deep devotion to the native grape and a strong respect for the land, the vintners of Bibich represent generations of family vintners. Taste some of the finest Croatian wines, paired expertly with tapas, for a true flavor of the region.
Šibenik: Enjoy a Captain's Dinner tonight with live entertainment aboard the MV Markan.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Zagreb
Location: Zagreb
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Esplanade Zagreb Hotel.
Meals Included: Dinner
Your tour begins with a private chauffeur to your luxurious hotel. Tonight, dine on a selection of traditional Croatian dishes.
Day 2: Zagreb Sightseeing Relaxed Start
Location: Zagreb, Opatija
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Ambassador Opatija
Meals Included: Breakfast
Encounter Zagreb’s Ban Josip Jelačić Square. Ascend the Upper Town via funicular for panoramic views before continuing to the Opatija Riviera, once a favorite seaside retreat of the elite.
Day 3: Pula And Istria
Location: Opatija, Pula, Istria, Opatija
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Ambassador Opatija
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Discover one of the best-preserved Roman Amphitheaters in the city of Pula. Experience the thrill of truffle-hunting at the family owned and operated Prodan Tartufi.
Day 4: Plitvice Lakes National Park
Location: Plitvice Lakes National Park, Split
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Park, Split.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
At the UNESCO-listed Plitvice Lakes, be mesmerised by the waterfalls and turquoise waters as you snake your way around the boardwalks on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Continue to the charming seaport city of Split.
Day 5: Board Your Adriatic Cruise Relaxed Start
Location: Split, Trogir
Accommodation Name: Markan, Katarina Line.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Soak up Split’s Old Town including the remains of Diocletian’s Palace and enjoy lunch before boarding your cruise ship for your week sailing the Adriatic. Relax in the lounge chairs or hot tub with a cocktail in hand. Voyage to Trogir, savoring a delicious dinner on board.
Day 6: Krka National Park Waterfalls Relaxed Start
Location: Trogir, Krka National Park, Skradin, Šibenik
Accommodation Name: Markan, Katarina Line.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
At the acclaimed Bibich Winery indulge in Croatian wines and a light tapas lunch. See the cascading waterfalls of Krka National Park’s and Sibenik’s 15th-century cathedral.
Day 7: The Islands Of Kornati National Park And Telašćica Bay Relaxed Start
Location: Šibenik, Kornati National Park, Telašćica, Sali
Accommodation Name: Markan, Katarina Line.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Sail through Kornati National Park’s maze of jewel-like islands past ruins and Roman villas. Swim in crystal clear waters before arriving in Telašćica Bay. Stroll to the Salt Lake and stand in awe at the famous White Cliffs, rising 162 meters above the blue waters. After your visit, continue to Sali.
Day 8: Mali Lošinj Relaxed Start
Location: Sali, Mali Losinj, Telašćica, Mali Losinj
Accommodation Name: Markan, Katarina Line.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Cruise to the island of Lošinj touring Mali Lošinj town’s harbor and historic quarter. Enjoy a private tour of the Museum of Apoxyomenos, home of the preserved 2000-year-old bronze statue.
Day 9: Explore Zadar Relaxed Start
Location: Mali Losinj, Zadar
Accommodation Name: Markan, Katarina Line.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Admire the Roman Forum, the city's meeting place for over 2000 years, sip coffee in one of the cafes by St Anastasia's Cathedral or view St. Donatus Basilica and the Venetian city walls. Experience a symphony of sound from the Sea Organ.
Day 10: Admire Vodice And Primošten
Location: Zadar, Primošten
Accommodation Name: Markan, Katarina Line.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After a brief stop at Vodice we continue toward the picturesque Primošten. Admire one of the most beautiful towns of the Dalmatian coast famous for its medieval aspect. Let this peninsula that was once an island astound you with its beauty. Enjoy time to swim and then have a relaxing lunch onboard. Tonight let us wine and dine you with a Captain’s Dinner.
Day 11: Split
Location: Primošten, Split
Accommodation Name: Markan, Katarina Line.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Enjoy a beautiful swim stop this morning before a relaxing lunch. Admire the views from the deck as you cruise on to Split. Upon arrival join your Local Expert for a guided tour.
Day 12: Oyster Tasting And Dubrovnik
Location: Ston, Dubrovnik
Accommodation Name: Hilton Dubrovnik.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Savor fresh oysters in the fishing village of Mali Ston. Arrive at your historic hotel just outside Dubrovnik's city walls and view the Rector’s Palace, St. Blaise’s Cathedral and the Dominican Monastery with a Local Expert.
Day 13: Dubrovnik Your Way Relaxed Start
Location: Dubrovnik
Accommodation Name: Hilton Dubrovnik.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Discover the best of Dubrovnik today with your Dubrovnik Museum Passes and personalized recommendations from your Travel Concierge. Choose to stroll along the impressive city walls, taking in the mesmerizing myriad of red roofs tucked within the city juxtaposed against the dazzling blue of the Adriatic just beyond the wall. Or, history lovers will want to visit one of the city’s many captivating museums including the Franciscan Monastery Museum set inside a 14th-century cloister exhibiting rare books and a medieval pharmacy that's been in use since 1317, the Maritime Museum, or War Photo Limited. After a relaxing afternoon soaking up the sun on your hotel’s private beach, tonight raise a glass to your amazing travels at your Celebration Dinner.
Day 14: Farewell Dubrovnik
Location: Dubrovnik
Meals Included: Breakfast
Conclude your Zagreb to Dubrovnik tour with a private transfer to Dubrovnik Airport.
What's Included
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Meals
As detailed in itinerary.
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Additional Services
Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary, available on departures with 15 or more guests. At every hotel, you'll be treated to seamless baggage handling, with prompt delivery inside your room. Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
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Airport Transfers at Destination
Complimentary airport transfers are included on start and end dates and when additional accommodation has been booked through Luxury Gold. Guests will be transferred with fellow Luxury Gold Travelers that arrive on the same flight. Complimentary, private train station transfers are included when train travel is included within the itinerary. Transfers to train stations or alternate hotels, in the same start or end city of the itinerary, may be requested but are not guaranteed.
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Fully Guided
You will be escorted by one of our fine Travel Concierges, handpicked to serve as your expert guide, consummate organiser, and friend overseas.
What's Not Included
International Travel
Dining Summary
- 5 Dinner (D)
- 13 Breakfast (B)
- 10 Lunch (L)
Additional Included Highlights
- Enjoy seamless personal assistance throughout your journey. From securing exclusive reservations, to organising transportation, your Travel Concierge ensures every aspect of your travel is tailored to your tastes and preferences.
- In select destinations, our network of Local Expert Guides will illuminate your journey on a deeper level. ?
- Included at all hotels.
- Hotel taxes, porterage and tips, as well as tips for included dining experiences, are included.
- Enjoy breakfast every morning, and an array of incredible dining options throughout your journey, infused with discovery and adventure.
- On days where a Relaxed Start (RS) is indicated, you can select to indulge in breakfast in bed.?
- Enjoy complimentary hotel Wi-Fi. And, on select coaches, onboard Wi-Fi may also be available.
- Transfers are included on your journey start and end dates, and where additional accommodation has been booked in advance through Luxury Gold. Transfers to train stations or alternate hotels, in the same start or end city as the itinerary, may be requested.
Curated Experiences
- Mali Losinj: Embark on an exclusive and immersive exploration of the Museum of Apoxymenos. Get to know the story of the 2000-year-old Greek bronze statue, perfectly preserved in the nearby seabed, and housed in the thoughtfully designed museum.
Magnificent Stays
- : With a long history of excellent service, dating back to the mid 1920s, the Esplanade Zagreb Hotel harmoniously blends its art nouveau and art deco heritage with contemporary finishes. The hotel's central location makes it a convenient base for your two-night stay as you explore the city and its surrounds. Guest rooms reflect Hollywood glamour, decorated with classic and elegant style, ensuring you will be most comfortable throughout your stay.
- Dubrovnik: The historic Hilton Imperial, Dubrovnik blends the charm of the late 1800s with modern styling on the edge of Dubrovnik’s Old Town. The Hilton Imperial is perfectly situated to take in views of the Adriatic Sea as well as exploration of Pile Gate, the Lovrijenac Fort and Šulic beach.
Passport Moments
- Zagreb: Join your Local Expert on an orientation city tour showcasing the charming atmosphere of the lower town then travel to the medieval upper town by funicular to see the colorful Church of St. Mark and Lotršcak Tower.
- Pula: Truly magnificent, the colossal Pula Arena was built in the 1st century AD during the reign of Emperor Vespasian, around the same time as the Colosseum of Rome. As you stroll its vast interior, picture the fierce gladiator battles that once took place here in front of 20,000 spectators.
- Split: Explore above and below the Roman Emperor Diocletian's palace. A Local Expert guides you through labyrinthine streets to see the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, the Temple of Jupiter, the Golden Gate and the Cellars.
- Dubrovnik: Once the sun has lowered and the crowds have disappeared join your Local Expert for a memorable evening sightseeing walk through the marble streets of Dubrovnik’s Old Town and see the Rector’s Palace, St. Blaise’s Cathedral and the Dominican Monastery.
- Krka National Park: Admire the beauty and power of nature as you stroll shaded paths with cascades all around you. The spectacular waterfalls of Krka National Park are formed from the Krka and Cikola Rivers. Formed like a series of terraces, they spill over 17 travertine steps in a series of cascades, creating the mighty Skradinski Buk waterfall, which towers 45 meters high. Despite the power of the rushing waters, the pool below remains so tranquil it is possible to swim right up to the base of the falls.
- Šibenik: With an Local Expert, explore this charming city of sun, sea and stone. Built on rocks and constructed with rocks, Šibenik is filled with incredible historical sites, beautiful seaside hangouts, and quaint alleys and squares. Meander through the maze of streets and admire 15th century architecture, including City Hall and the Cathedral of St. James.
- Kornati National Park: Sail through the maze of the 89 rocky islands in the Kornati National Park and take time to relax and recharge as you cruise past ruins of the ancient Illyrian fortress, Roman villas, and medieval settlements.
- : Discover the natural wonders of Telašcica Bay, one of the most beautiful locations on the Adriatic. Learn about the formation of the Salt Lake following the last Ice Age. Located inland in a karst depression, the intriguing lake is filled through underground cracks and limestone channels fed by the sea, from which it is separated by only a narrow strip of rock. And admire the iconic white cliffs. Towering 162 meters tall and gleaming out over the deep blue ocean, these are some of the steepest cliffs to rise out over the Adriatic.
- Zadar: Join your Local Expert to see the remains of the 1st century Roman Forum, admire the 9th century St Donatus Basilica, and walk through the 16th century Venetian city walls.
- Zadar: Visit the modern Sea Organ and take a moment to enjoy the symphony of sounds generated by the waves.
- Split: Join a Local Expert for a guided tour of Split, a dynamic port city with a medieval Old Town. Grown around the 1.700-year-old Diocletian's Palace, Split bustles with modern life amid its ancient Roman setting. Cafés, restaurants, and galleries cram the cobblestone alleyways, the waterfront and the Marjan peninsula, making Croatia's second-largest city one of the Mediterranean's most compelling.
Personalise your day
- Dubrovnik: Archaeology, art, natural history, traditional culture, maritime history. Choose from the many museums in this fascinating city with your Dubrovnik Pass.
- Dubrovnik: With your included Dubrovnik Pass hike around the impressive City Walls and take in the mesmerizing views of the myriad of red roofs and the dazzling Adriatic.
Check out our Q&As
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Are airport transfers included in this tour?
Complimentary airport transfers are included on start and end dates and when additional accommodation has been booked through Luxury Gold. Guests will be transferred with fellow Luxury Gold Travelers that arrive on the same flight. Complimentary, private train station transfers are included when train travel is included within the itinerary. Transfers to train stations or alternate hotels, in the same start or end city of the itinerary, may be requested but are not guaranteed.
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What is the tipping policy?
Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
Yes, English speaking tour guide on this tour.
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Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?
Yes
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Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?
Each guest can bring a single bag measuring no more than 77.5cm (30.5in) x 56cm (22in) x 32cm (12.5in) and weight not exceeding 50 lbs. (23kg). You can also bring one hand luggage bag that is no bigger than 12”x11”x6” (30x28x14cm) to fit under your coach seat or in the small overhead compartment. Hand luggage cannot have wheels or a telescopic handle.
If you wish to bring a second item of luggage, please request this at time of booking. Additional charges will apply.
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Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?
As detailed in itinerary.
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What is the maximum group size?
A max size of group is 22 guests.
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Do you require a visa for this holiday?
Ensure you have a valid passport for all the countries you will visit or travel through; many countries require your passport to be valid for a longer period than the length of your stay (usually a minimum of 6 months), so check what applies to your itinerary. You might also need to obtain visas (depending on your nationality). Talk to your Embassy if you are unclear about what documentation you require.
It is a good idea to have copies of your passport details, insurance policy, visas and credit card numbers, keeping them separate from the originals and perhaps leaving an additional copy with someone at home. -
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Absolutely! We are very selective in who we work with and choose to only use hotels that take the health and well-being of our guests as seriously as we do and agree to meet expected guidelines and specifications. We only work with establishments that we are confident will consistently adhere to our standards.
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Which countries does Luxury Gold visit?
We offer incredible luxury trips in Europe, North America, South America, Hawaii, South-East Asia, the Indian sub-continent (including India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka), Australia and New Zealand.
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What other modes of transport does Luxury Gold use?
A Luxury Gold tour will include touring on high-speed trains, alpine cable cars, hydrofoils, river cruisers and horse-drawn carriages, in addition to our high-deck luxury coaches with extra legroom.
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Who travels with Luxury Gold?
We are delighted to welcome guests who have a shared love of travel, adventure, entertainment and exploration. A mix of solo travellers, couples, and groups of friends and family join us from all over the English-speaking world.
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What is the role of the Well-Being Director?
Working closely together with your Travelling Concierge, the Well-Being Director* will help make sure all necessary protocols are followed to ensure the health and wellbeing of all our guests. This includes our enhanced screening and hygiene protocols, complying with distancing and other requirements set by government authorities. They are also there to support our guests & answer any questions.
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Why book with Barrhead?
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