Croatia the Long Way: Zagreb to the Islands
Go deeper into Croatia, from Zagreb’s markets and olive groves in Istria to Hvar’s lavender fields and Dubrovnik’s offshore islands. With expert-guided walks, hands-on tastings, and off-road adventures, explore coast and countryside in vivid detail. Your Destination Expert tailors the journey to reveal the rhythms, flavors, and stories behind each place.
- Duration
- 12 days, 11 nights
- Route
- Zagreb · Rovinj · Split · Hvar · Dubrovnik
- Style
- Private and tailor-made: your own guide and driver throughout
- From
- $9,200 per person, hotels, guides and transfers included
- Savor a slice of daily life in Zagreb's local food market and craft your own Croatian meal.
- Pedal through Istria’s vineyards and medieval villages, ending with a truffle-filled lunch.
- Discover Hvar’s lavender fields and picturesque, quiet villages on a scenic tuk tuk ride.
- Charter a private sailboat to the Elaphiti Islands and snorkel in crystal-clear coves.
- Consult your Destination Expert for options to customize this adventure to your interests.
Every day, already yours.
The Adventure Begins
Enjoy your private airport transfer to your hotel with vehicle and driver. For your added comfort, an English-speaking assistant will walk you through any travel documents, assist with hotel check-in, and answer any questions you may have.
- Airport Transfer with Meet & Greet - Private
- Croatia Welcome Package
- Independent Discovery of Zagreb
Tastes and Traditions
Embark on a culinary escapade in Zagreb today and start with a private transfer that will bring you to meet up with your friendly host, where you will kick things off with a fragrant cup of coffee. As you sip and chat about the day's menu, get ready for a tasty journey ahead. Next stop? The bustling Dolac market, Zagreb's foodie hotspot.
- Croatian Cuisine Cooking Class with a Local (with Lunch, 5 hrs) - Private
The Journey Continues…
The adventure continues as you set out with your private driver for a transfer to Rovinj. En-route, visit a beautiful family-owned olive farm and enjoy a private olive oil tasting in this historic setting. Learn about the entire olive-growing process and how to pick up the tasting notes of olive oils like a professional.
- Zagreb to Rovinj with Olive Oil Tasting (4 hrs) - Private Transfer
Pedal Through the Past
Embark on a biking excursion along the Parenzana, a narrow-gauge railway that was built at the beginning of the 20th century. Accompanied by a knowledgeable private guide, cycle along this former connection between the town of Porec and Trieste in Italy. Pass through the most beautiful parts of Parenzana, from the small medieval jewel of Groznjan to the charming Istrian village of Livade.
- Biking the North Istrian Railway (with Lunch, 6.5 hrs) - Private
A Dazzling Drive
Your Croatian journey continues as you depart Rovinj with your private driver, transferring to Split. Along the way, stop to explore the beautiful coastal town of Opatija. Meet up with a local private guide to explore this Adriatic gem, home to a breathtaking landscape and enjoyable year-round climate.
- Rovinj to Split with Seaside Lunch (9 hrs) - Private Transfer
Chasing Waterfalls
Set out on an exciting exploration of Krka National Park and the UNESCO-protected museum town of Trogir. Set out with your private driver and guide to first experience Trogir's coastal beauty. Set on a small island just off the mainland, Trogir is a tiny charming town surrounded by a impressive fortress.
- Krka Waterfalls & Trogir Old Town (9 hrs) - Private
Island Time
Experience Hvar from a brand new perspective as you journey through its beauty aboard a Piaggio Ape Calessino. This 'tuk tuk' tour offers a charming way to travel and get to know the island's hidden gems. Join your private guide and start your panoramic adventure along the almost forgotten Stari Grad path, once the island's main road. Pause at the mighty 16th-century Fortica Fortress, looming high above the town and offering breathtaking views.
- Port Transfer - Private
- Ferry - Split - Hvar [1 hr] - Catamaran
- Porter Service
- Island Tuk Tuk Tour (2.5 hrs) - Private
Farm Fresh
Accompanied by your private driver-guide, immerse yourself in the world of Hvar's heavenly lavender. Well-known for its purple-hued fields, Hvar not only harvests the herb for its scent, but also for a flavor in cooking. The island's soothing, gentle aroma and deep purple colors of lavender have delighted people throughout the centuries. Visit the ethno-eco village of Velo Grablje, home to the original growers and enthusiasts.
- Exploring The Lavender Island (4 hrs) - Private
- Dining Reservations at Dalmatino
A Change of Scenery
Travel to Dubrovnik today, taking in the scenery from the comfort of a public catamaran from Hvar to Split. On arrival in Split, meet with your private driver and continue your transfer. En-route, stop at a local winery to gain insight into one of Croatia's beloved treasures. Drink in the winery's beautiful surrounds, overlooking the Peljesac peninsula and archipelago.
- Hvar to Dubrovnik via Split with Winery Visit & Tasting (7 hrs) - Private Transfer
Full Throttle
Today's off-road adventure begins with a scenic ride along Dubrovnik's coastal road. Ascend the curvy path to the top of Mount Srd, pausing for unique photo stops. Pass by the Fort Imperial, a mighty Napoleonic fortress overlooking the old city. This symbol of defense boasts the most spectacular view across the Adriatic, inviting you to drink in stunning scenes.
- Panoramic Coast Tour & Off-Road Safari (2 hrs) - Private
- Self-Guided: Best of Dubrovnik Sunset Views
Sail the Seas
Set sail to the picturesque Elaphiti Islands aboard your own private sailboat, accompanied by a knowledgeable skipper. Located just northwest of Dubrovnik, this cluster of islands provides a picturesque escape from buzzing Dubrovnik. Relax on sunny shores and dip your toes in golden sands. Hike along car-free roads to explore untouched nature or unearth ruined fortresses and monasteries.
- Sailing the Elaphiti Islands (8 hrs) - Private
Bon Voyage
Meet your private driver for a transfer to Dubrovnik airport.
- Airport Transfer - Private
Where you will wake up.
Met Boutique Hotel
Met Boutique Hotel redefines contemporary elegance with an interior that blends modernity, comfort, and distinctive sophistication. The 26 meticulously designed rooms offer a refined retreat, combining stylish aesthetics with serene tranquility amidst the vibrant urban landscape.
Hotel Spirito Santo Palazzo Storico
Hotel Spirito Santo Palazzo Storico is located in the historic town center of Rovinj. The boutique property is comprised of 3 houses dating back to the 1920s, established and owned by a prominent Italian family.
Hotel Park
Hotel Park is situated in the beautiful 1700 year old UNESCO -protected city of Split, next to the famous beach Bacvice. The hotel exudes classic sophistication with a modern flair, and remains the most prestigious venue for all social and political events in Split.
Adriana Spa Hotel
Renovated and redesigned as a stylish luxury hotel and spa, the Adriana Spa (4*) hotel's amenities are as diverse as its view, which combines the cathedral, the yacht harbour, and the bay. Contemporary interior design meets with comfort and timeless views from the balconies.
Hotel Kompas Dubrovnik
Tucked along the serene beachfront of Lapad Bay, Hotel Kompas Dubrovnik blends contemporary elegance with breathtaking Adriatic views. Just 2.5 miles (4 km) from the historic Old Town, the hotel offers a peaceful retreat away from the crowds, with 173 stylish rooms and suites, most featuring balconies and sea views.