Croatia

The Best of Croatia: Dubrovnik – Split

A perfect match, combine a holiday to Split with a city break to Dubrovnik. This multi centre holiday in Croatia glues the two best cities together for a delightful week away. This twin-centre provides an authentic taste of Croatia’s history and culture, as well as a well needed dose of relaxation. If travelling for a week, we recommend four days in Dubrovnik to see the sites, then hop on a ferry to Split for three days relaxing by the sea.

 

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik, also known as the Pearl of the Adriatic, is top of the list for most visitors to Croatia. A city break to Dubrovnik takes in the fascinating Old Town and the discovery of a fascinating battle-scarred past. You’ll uncover the delightful natural beauty of its irresistible beaches, towering mount Srd and captivating Lokrum Island. Walk upon the walls of the ancient Old Town, dive in to the warm soothing sea and take the cable car high above the city for spectacular views. For more things to do in Dubrovnik read our ultimate guide.

Split

Split boasts some beautiful beaches and several historical sites. In the evenings the delightful harbour comes alight with superb restaurants and waterfront bars. The thriving city is alive with cultural delights, ancient sites and beaches that invite travellers from across the globe. Wind your way through old town Split before relaxing on the show stopping beaches such as Trstenik and Bacvive.

Transfer time: approximately 3 hours by car.

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The Glamorous Match: Split – Hvar

Split and Hvar are two of Croatia’s most glamourous destinations. With scenic harbours packed with exclusive restaurants and beautiful coastal charm, made more alluring by luxury yachts coming as they please. Spend 4 nights taking in the sites and scenes of beautiful Split followed by an island getaway to elegant Hvar.

Split

Built upon a thriving port, Split is home to a plethora of seaside delights. The captivating seafront promenade is lined with relaxed cafes, ice cream parlours and chic lounge bars; a great spot to sit back and watch the luxury yachts and fishing vessels come in to the port. Thanks to its calm coastline, it is hard not to be enticed by Split’s jaw dropping beaches, where the water is as clear as glass.

Hvar

From its luxury hotels and elegant restaurants to its bustling yacht harbour, Hvar is a haven of sophistication. Be captivated by the St Tropez-esque charm that’s met with refreshing Adriatic beauty. Rub shoulders with A-listers and sip cocktails in legendary beach bars or uncover abandoned villas and verdant vineyards of inland Hvar.

Transfer time: Approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes by ferry.

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The Scenic Safari: Split – Plitvice Lakes National Park

This superb multi-centre takes in the sites and scenes of Split and the show-stopping landscapes of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Although around a three-hour drive; the journey between Split and Plitvice takes in the beautiful landscapes of Croatia’s diverse inland.

Split

The city of Split is bursting with historic sites, sophisticated bars and elegant restaurants, as well as surrounding landscapes of captivating beauty. Between sightseeing and cultural exploration head out of Split centre where quaint seaside towns are blessed with divine beaches and refreshing Adriatic waters. Don’t miss the Diocletian Palace in the centre of Split’s Old Town; the two thousand year old UNESCO World Heritage Site is simply a joy to discover.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Gushing adjectives won’t quite give justice to the beauty of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Perfect for leisurely walkers, serious hikers and everything in between, Plitvice is unlike anywhere in Europe. Dense forest and fairy-tale waterfalls pack together with an immense variety of flora and fauna. You can go cycling, canoeing, caving or simply walk through the wonderous park.

Transfer time: Approximately 3 hours by car.

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Venice – Rovinj

This twin-centre takes in the remarkable city of Venice and the heart shaped peninsula of the Istrian Rivera. With a scenic ferry in-between, the two destinations can be connected in just 3 hours. Combine the delights of Italian charm with the contrasting culture of Croatia’s northern towns. Uncover tempting cuisine and romantic gondolas in Venice before exploring the aristocratic history and relaxed charm of Rovinj.

Venice

The beautiful city of Venice has earned its reputation as one of the best city breaks in Europe. With its winding canals, traffic free squares and romantic gondolas, Venice is truly a unique city. Travel to your hotel by boat transfer and wander through endless streets discovering boutique shops and Italian eateries along the way. With its 117 islands, 150 canals and 400 bridges, there’s plenty to explore in this UNESCO World Heritage City.

Istria Riviera

The Istria Riviera includes the delightful towns of Rovinj, Pula and Porec. Evident Venetian heritage makes visiting these towns a romantic experience. Unique buildings and ornate architecture give the region an air of sophistication. Luxurious resorts line the coast with a superb offering of restaurants and delightful beaches.

Transfer time: Between 3 and 4 hours by ferry.

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Practical Information

Where are the best places to visit in Croatia?

If you like beaches and coastal relaxation the Croatian islands or Makarska Riviera fits the bill. If you’re after some charming seaside towns the Istria Riviera is perfect. Arguably Dubrovnik holidays have something for everyone; a bit of beach, culture, rich history, luxurious hotels and easy access to other cities. Wherever you choose, luxury Croatia holidays are likely to leave you with lasting memories.

How do you get around in Croatia?

There are no rail services in Croatia and for those that don’t want to take a bus, it limits you to getting around by car. Thanks to a favourable exchange rate with the Croatian Kuna, you can get a lot further for your money by car than you would in say Italy or France. Besides travel by road, ferry travel is increasingly frequent, making a multi-centre holiday in Croatia much more flexible. There are a vast number of routes including Split to Dubrovnik, Venice to Pula and Rijeka to Split, easily connecting the main coastal areas.

When is the best time to visit Croatia?

If you’re not tied to school holidays then the months of May, June, September and October are the best times to visit Croatia. Croatia’s coastline follows a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters. Although be prepared, availability of the best hotels is limited in June and September so best to book ahead. (See Metoffice.gov.uk for up to date weather forecasts).

 

Where are the best beaches in Croatia?

When thinking of Croatia, beaches don’t really spring to mind. Yet travellers are still flocking to Croatia in search of beach holidays. The beaches in Croatia are mostly shingle, rocky platforms or imported sand. However, there are a few beach gems to add to your multi-centre holiday.

Rab Island – Sandy beaches are rare in Croatia, but you’ll certainly find a few on Rab island, some without a person in sight.

Banje Beach – A mix of pebble and sand this beach is located in the heart of Dubrovnik.

Omis Beach – The town of Omis is an attraction in itself, made ever more popular by its long golden beach.

Zlatni Rat, Brac – Croatia’s most famous beach Zlatni Rat is a distinctive ‘tongue shape’ surrounded by azure waters.

Want to find out more about Croatia’s beaches? Read more in our blog a guide to the best beaches in Croatia.

Prices featured are a ‘from price’ per person based on 2 adults sharing a room including economy flights and private transfers. Savings are per couple for selected dates against original system pricing; alternative dates and departure airports available. All holiday offers are subject to limited availability and change. Full booking conditions here.