On arrival in Zagreb, transfer to your centrally located hotel and take time to settle in. This evening, enjoy dinner with your fellow travellers and your Tour Manager, the perfect start to your journey. Overnight in Zagreb at Hotel Dubrovnik or similar. (D)

This morning, explore Zagreb’s charming Upper Town with its cobbled streets, colourful tiled-roofed St. Mark’s Church, and elegant Austro-Hungarian façades. After time to absorb the capital’s vibrant culture, journey to Opatija, a stylish seaside retreat once beloved by European aristocracy. Stroll the famed Franz Joseph promenade before dinner at your hotel. Overnight in Opatija at Hotel Admiral, Hotel Imperial, or similar. (B,D)

Set out on a full-day excursion into the Istrian peninsula. Wander Rovinj’s romantic waterfront, crowned by St. Euphemia’s church, then marvel at Pula’s magnificent Roman amphitheatre, a reminder of Croatia’s imperial past. Continue inland to the hilltop town of Motovun for a truffle experience, tasting this prized delicacy paired with local wines. Return to Opatija in the evening. Overnight in Opatija at Hotel Admiral, Hotel Imperial, or similar. (B,T)

Today is devoted to the splendour of nature. Travel to Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site where 16 lakes cascade into one another through a series of turquoise waterfalls. Walk along wooden pathways and enjoy a boat ride across Lake Kozjak before continuing to Zadar. This evening, dine at your hotel after a day filled with natural wonders. Overnight in Zadar at Hotel Kolovare or similar. (B,D)

Begin with a guided tour of Zadar’s Old Town, where Roman ruins sit beside medieval churches. Pause at the world-famous Sea Organs, where waves create hauntingly beautiful music. Later, travel inland to a family-owned winery for a tasting of Dalmatian wines paired with Croatian-style tapas. Continue to Split for your overnight stay. Overnight in Split at Hotel Art or similar. (B,T)

Uncover Split’s extraordinary history as you explore Diocletian’s Palace, a living monument where ancient walls blend seamlessly with cafés and shops. Then travel to nearby Trogir, a UNESCO-listed “open-air museum” with over two millennia of history. Here, enjoy a traditional Dalmatian lunch at the historic Tragos restaurant before strolling the picturesque streets. Overnight in Split at Hotel Art or similar. (B,L)

Journey south along the Dalmatian coast, pausing in Ston, famous for its medieval walls and vineyards. Visit a winery to taste the renowned Plavac Mali, a bold red wine closely related to Zinfandel. Arrive in Dubrovnik in time for dinner and settle into your hotel near the Old Town. Overnight in Dubrovnik at Hotel Ivka or similar. (B,T,D)

Step into history as you explore Dubrovnik’s UNESCO-listed Old Town. Walk along Stradun, admire the Franciscan Monastery, and take in views from the medieval ramparts. The afternoon is yours to discover hidden alleyways, enjoy a coffee at a local café, or perhaps take a sunset stroll by the harbour. Overnight in Dubrovnik at Hotel Ivka or similar. (B)

After breakfast, bid farewell to Croatia. Transfer to Dubrovnik Airport for your onward journey, or extend your adventure with a cruise or our Montenegro & Mostar add-on. (B)