Croatia: Treasures of the Dalmatian Coast

One of the history-rich gems that dot Croatia’s Adriatic coast, Split is adorned with sunny beaches, fascinating museums and architecture that dates back to Roman times. Settle into your hotel. Tonight, join your Resident Tour Director and fellow guests for a welcome dinner.

Explore Split, starting with the Palace of Diocletian and its synagogue, and view St. Domnius Cathedral. Stroll Split's old town and harbor-front promenade. Visit the daily market, with the remainder of your afternoon free, before gathering tonight for dinner.

Rise early for a ride by ferry along the stunning Dalmatian coastline to picturesque Hvar, a lush, mountainous island where Venetian palaces grace narrow backstreets and secluded coves beckon. Upon arrival, visit the old town of Stari Grad, before heading to the family-owned winery of renowned winemaker Andro Tomic for an exclusive encounter that includes a wine tasting accompanied by local foods. Later, on the scenic drive to Hvar Town, stop to view the gleaming limestone Spanjol Fortress. Tonight, eat dinner while overlooking the waterfront.

This morning, walk the historic center of Hvar Town, pausing to take in the Cathedral, the Arsenal and the Benedictine Nunnery where resident nuns produce the world-famous agave lace. Your afternoon is free for relaxing or exploring this beautiful town and its island lifestyle on your own.

Head to Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic,” stopping en route in Ston, renowned for its oysters, which you may wish to sample when you enjoy lunch in a typical Dalmatian restaurant.

Beyond the iconic medieval sea wall of its UNESCO-listed Old Town, Dubrovnik sparkles with historic landmarks and Game of Thrones shooting locations. Stroll the city with your local guide to see the Dominican Monastery, the Rector's Palace and Dubrovnik Cathedral. Mingle with local traders and craftspeople in its markets. Later, on a fascinating artisan visit in Konavle watch silk weavers at work, carrying on a tradition practiced in the region since at least the 16th century. Learn how the threads from silk-worm cocoons are teased out into the long single strands used to create a variety of garments, from dresses to decorative waistcoats. Return to Dubrovnik for a private cruise, enjoying a refreshing drink and taking in the fantastic city views.

Seek out Dubrovnik’s hidden gems, exploring remote sections of the city’s walls known only to locals. Then, visit St. Lawrence Fortress, a triangular-shaped, clifftop stronghold known as "Dubrovnik's Gibraltar" and, more recently, the Red Keep from TV’s Game of Thrones. Continue to the Old Town's granary, now home to the city’s ethnographic museum, and on to the massive battlements of Fort of St. John, which now hosts the maritime museum. Cap things off with a visit to Sigurata Church and Nunnery, a fascinating cross section of history dating back to the 13th century.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport to depart.