Dubrovnik & The Adriatic Islands

Itinerary

• Croatia

  Croatia is a south-central European country with an extensive coastline down the Adriatic Sea. It borders Hungary in the north, and Montenegro to the south. The Croats settled in early 7th century, forming two principalities, Dalmatia and Pannonia. In 1102, Croatia entered into a union with the Kingdom of Hungary (the Dalmatian coast was controlled by Venice until the 18th century). The region became a part of the Habsburg Empire in 1527, and in 1918 became a part of the Kingdom of SHS, later renamed Yugoslavia. In 1991 Croatia proclaimed independence by holding its first democratic elections. The country includes seven World Heritage sites and eight national parks. Its capital is Zagreb. Tourism in Croatia is well-developed, with most of the traffic going to the well-preserved coastal Renaissance towns. Several companies run flotillas of yachts along different stretches of the coastline, which is also popular with divers. In the interior of the country highlights include the capital Zagreb, the Baroque capital Varaždin, and a plethora of medieval castles.

• Dubrovnik

  Dubrovnik is a Croatian city on the Adriatic Sea coast, positioned at the terminal end of the Isthmus of Dubrovnik. It is one of the most prominent tourist destinations on the Adriatic, a seaport and the centre of Dubrovnik-Neretva county. In 1979, the city of Dubrovnik joined the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites. The prosperity of the city of Dubrovnik has always been based on maritime trade. In the Middle Ages, as the Republic of Ragusa, it became the only eastern Adriatic city-state to rival Venice. The Renaissance era city walls, and red terra cotta rooftops of the old town, are spectacular remnants of the city's rich past.

• Hvar

  Hvar is a Croatian island in the Adriatic Sea, located off the Dalmatian coast. The island measures approximately 80 km, east to west. Hvar has a very mild Mediterranean climate, beautiful beaches and Mediterranean vegetation that make it one of the most attractive tourist centers in Europe. The island promotes itself as "the sunniest spot in Europe", with 2715 hours of sunlight in an average year. Port in Hvar town Hvar town is the main tourist center. It features a large public square that is open to the sea. During the tourist season, the port is filled with large yachts. All-night discos attract large crowds of young visitors.

• Korčula

  Korcula is a Croatian island located on the Adriatic Sea, lying just off the Dalmatian coast. According to legend, the island was founded by Trojan hero Antenor in the 12th century BC. Korcula was first settled by Mesolithic and Neolithic peoples, and later by Illyrians around 1000 BC. The island's rule and allegiance has since changed hands many times, layering on history and heritage until most recently the independent Republic of Croatia taking ownership from Yugoslavia in 1992. Korcula has a very old Stonemasonry history, a tradition which reached its peak during the rule of the Venetian Republic (1420-1797), evident in some of the island's architecture.

• Split

  Split is the second-largest city in Croatia. It is a Mediterranean city, situated on a small peninsula on the eastern shores of the Adriatic Sea. Split is also one of the oldest cities in the area, dating more than 1700 years. Since 1979, the historic center of Split has been included in the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites. The airport in Kaštela is the second largest in Croatia with services to Zagreb, London, Frankfurt and Cologne. The Split passenger seaport is the third busiest port in the Mediterranean, with daily coastal routes to Rijeka, Dubrovnik and Ancona in Italy. During the summer season Split is connected with other Italian cities as well, such as Pescara. Most of the central Dalmatian islands are only reachable via the Split harbour (with Jadrolinija and Split Tours ferries).

• • Dubrovnik
  • Excelsior (5*)

  Day 1: Dubrovnik

  Take a private airport transfer with an English speaking driver in Dubrovnik.

  A welcome package with your vouchers, a city map, train tickets (if relevant) and any other touristic information that we deem you may find useful will be waiting for you upon your arrival at your first hotel on your trip.

  Accommodation: Excelsior (5*)

  Excelsior (5*) situated amidst the UNESCO Dubrovnik Old town and overlooking the Adriatic Sea, the stunning location has been integrated into the a new design. With superb facilities, fine location and excellent service the Excelsior is the perfect accompaniment to any stay. All 158 bedrooms including and 15 deluxe and 2 presidential suites provide guests with every modern amenity. The elegant terraces, with their stunning city and sea view, form part of the overall experience in a setting that is both truly intimate and archetypically Mediterranean.

• • Dubrovnik

  Day 2: Dubrovnik

  Meet your local guide for a private 3hour walking tour of Dubrovnik, one of the most beautiful stone-built cities in the world. As one of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Dubrovnik owes its special charm to the historic monuments which testify to its rich history. While strolling with your guide down Stradun, the main street, you will stop to visit the Franciscan monastery. Continue down to Orlando Column and the Sponza Palace and visit the Church of St. Blasius, the patron-saint of the town. Discover Rector’s Palace, and the Cathedral of the Virgin Mary and its treasury. The rest of the afternoon is at your leisure to explore this stunning town on your own. We recommend you to take a walk along the city walls (2500m around the old town), visit one of the numerous museums or take a funicular ride to the top of the Srd hill. Return transfers to/from your hotel are included.

  Accommodation: Excelsior (5*)
• • Hvar
  • Hvar
  • Riva--Hvar Yacht Harbor Hotel

  Day 3: Dubrovnik - Hvar

  Enjoy a transfer to Hvar with a private vehicle & driver as well as a shared ferry ride. Luggage will be safely stored in the vehicle while on the ferry.

  Enjoy a private 3-hour guided walking tour of the historical city of Hvar. Since the island of Hvar lies in the heart of all the main sea routes since the ancient times, many different cultures left their traces to the present day. Your guide will take you for a stroll through the largest square in Dalmatia. It is ringed by grand palaces and beautiful historic edifices, such as the town loggia and the Gothic and Renaissance palaces, most impressively the Cathedral of St. Stephen. Its graceful 17th century bell tower is the most beautiful element in the skyline of the town. You will continue to the mighty Arsenal, a 13th century warehouse that today houses Hvar theatre. A stroll through narrow streets of the town, along the waterfront promenade will take you to the Franciscan Monastery, a former retreat for sailors from the 15th century. After the tour of the town, you may wish to visit the Hvar Fortress, a 16th century citadel built in the time of the Venetian rule. Perched on a hill above the ramparts, it dominates over the town and offers spectacular views of Hvar and the Pakleni islands. Even though there is a 25 minute walk up to the top, the stunning views make is all worthwhile. Cost includes entrance fees.

  Accommodation: Riva Yacht Harbor (4*)

  Hovering on the waterfront promenade in the heart of the medieval Hvar Town, Riva--Hvar Yacht Harbor Hotel (4*), Croatia's first and only member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, offers you the finest in Adriatic ambiance. You’ll find yourself at home in one of Riva’s rooms featuring uniquely designed interiors, contemporary furnishings and an exceptional view of the sun as it sets over the Paklinski Islands. Taste the essence of Hvar’s azure waters and lush hills in the exclusive Roots restaurant serving progressive Mediterranean cuisine inspired by the finest local ingredients. At night you can chill out to DJ induced tunes on the spacious terrace of BB club, Hvar’s hottest bar.

• • Golden Cape

  Day 4: Hvar

  Enjoy a private motor boat excursion today with an English speaking skipper out to Brac Island, for a boating tour of the town of Bol. Renowned for its "Golden Cape" beach, Bol has become a popular tourist destination, and has a number of restaurants and bars along its coast which cater to visitors. Includes 3 hours of active cruising, while the rest of the time you will spend on the island or anchored, enjoying the sun.

  Accommodation: Riva Yacht Harbor (4*)
• • Korcula
  • Lesic Dimitri Palace

  Day 5: Hvar - Korčula

  Take a shared transfer by catamaran from Hvar to Korcula.

  Accommodation: Lesic Dimitri Palace (5*)

  Lesic Dimitri Palace (5*) is hidden within the walls of the charming medieval town of Korcula, with its winding alleyways, terracotta-tiled houses and tiny churches, next door to the house of Marco Polo and only a stone’s throw from the crystal clear Adriatic Sea. Hotel occupies an 18th century bishop’s palace and five medieval cottages, offering luxurious accommodation in six residences, complete with five-star services, a spa and a restaurant overlooking the breathtaking Dalmatian archipelago. Each of the residences has been beautifully restored and the interiors are subtly influenced by regions along Marco Polo's Silk Road travels. They encompass original features and are finished with exquisite detailing and handcrafted furniture. The small number of residences guarantees guests an intimate and highly personalised stay with service steeped in local charm.

• Day 6: Korčula

  Enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.

  Accommodation: Lesic Dimitri Palace (5*)
• • Split
  • Split
  • Hotel Vestibul Palace

  Day 7: Korčula - Split

  Take a shared transfer by catamaran from Korcula to Split.

  Meet your private transfer at your hotel for a drop-off at the starting point of your 3hr private walking tour with a guide today in Split. Explore the city which is dominated by the Diocletian’s Palace (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and explore the historical part of the city. The Palace is one of the most famous and integral architectural and cultural constructs on the Croatian Adriatic Coast. Visit the Silver Gate which is the entrance to the Old town, the Cathedral and Bell tower of St. Dominus. Discover the waterfront promenade of Split, the lively open green market and the monuments not only from antiquity, but also from the Middle Ages, Renaissance and Baroque periods. After the tour, you can enjoy some time at your leisure to immerse yourself into town’s famous Mediterranean charm. (Entrance fees for Diocletians Palace substructure & Cathedral included). Return transfer included.

  Accommodation: Vestibul Palace (4*)

  An intimate atmosphere can be found at the Vestibul Palace (4*). Superbly located in the heart of the Dioclecian Palace and one of only a handful of newly refurbished designer boutique hotels in Croatia; all its rooms are finely and appropriately furnished to a high standard. A stay at the Hotel Vestibul Palace puts you in touch with the history of the city. This combines perfectly with the hotel’s modern design where you will discover an attention to detail. The hotel's 7 rooms and 2 suites are located across 2 floors and all contain facilities including satellite television and internet connection. The restaurant and bar are situated on the ground floor.

• • Plitvice Lakes

  Day 8: Split

  Enjoy a private guided tour of Plitvice National Park, a complex of 16 lakes located between the mountains of Mala Kapela. The 19.5 hectares of wooden hills enclose the lakes by a series of waterfalls and cascades. Admire the landscape formed by the mineral-rich waters which carve new paths through the rock, and enjoy your time in the middle of nature. Entrance fee is included in the price.

  Accommodation: Vestibul Palace (4*)

• Day 9: Split - Dubrovnik

  Take a private transfer from Split to Dubrovnik with today. The transfer should take approximately 3.5 hours.

  Accommodation: Excelsior (5*)

• Day 10: Dubrovnik

  Take a private airport transfer with an English speaking driver in Dubrovnik.

  Accommodation: Depart (Int`l Airport)

Accommodation

• • Excelsior (5*)

  Excelsior (5*)

  Excelsior (5*) situated amidst the UNESCO Dubrovnik Old town and overlooking the Adriatic Sea, the stunning location has been integrated into the a new design. With superb facilities, fine location and excellent service the Excelsior is the perfect accompaniment to any stay. All 158 bedrooms including and 15 deluxe and 2 presidential suites provide guests with every modern amenity. The elegant terraces, with their stunning city and sea view, form part of the overall experience in a setting that is both truly intimate and archetypically Mediterranean.

  • More information
• • Riva--Hvar Yacht Harbor Hotel

  Riva Yacht Harbor (4*)

  Hovering on the waterfront promenade in the heart of the medieval Hvar Town, Riva--Hvar Yacht Harbor Hotel (4*), Croatia's first and only member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, offers you the finest in Adriatic ambiance. You’ll find yourself at home in one of Riva’s rooms featuring uniquely designed interiors, contemporary furnishings and an exceptional view of the sun as it sets over the Paklinski Islands. Taste the essence of Hvar’s azure waters and lush hills in the exclusive Roots restaurant serving progressive Mediterranean cuisine inspired by the finest local ingredients. At night you can chill out to DJ induced tunes on the spacious terrace of BB club, Hvar’s hottest bar.

  • More information
• • Lesic Dimitri Palace
  • Terrace

  Lesic Dimitri Palace (5*)

  Lesic Dimitri Palace (5*) is hidden within the walls of the charming medieval town of Korcula, with its winding alleyways, terracotta-tiled houses and tiny churches, next door to the house of Marco Polo and only a stone’s throw from the crystal clear Adriatic Sea. Hotel occupies an 18th century bishop’s palace and five medieval cottages, offering luxurious accommodation in six residences, complete with five-star services, a spa and a restaurant overlooking the breathtaking Dalmatian archipelago. Each of the residences has been beautifully restored and the interiors are subtly influenced by regions along Marco Polo's Silk Road travels. They encompass original features and are finished with exquisite detailing and handcrafted furniture. The small number of residences guarantees guests an intimate and highly personalised stay with service steeped in local charm.

  • More information
• • Hotel Vestibul Palace

  Vestibul Palace (4*)

  An intimate atmosphere can be found at the Vestibul Palace (4*). Superbly located in the heart of the Dioclecian Palace and one of only a handful of newly refurbished designer boutique hotels in Croatia; all its rooms are finely and appropriately furnished to a high standard. A stay at the Hotel Vestibul Palace puts you in touch with the history of the city. This combines perfectly with the hotel’s modern design where you will discover an attention to detail. The hotel's 7 rooms and 2 suites are located across 2 floors and all contain facilities including satellite television and internet connection. The restaurant and bar are situated on the ground floor.

  • More information

The Fine Print

• Trip Operator

  Horizon & Co. (founded in 1963), is a privately-owned leading boutique travel company. Horizon designs and stages authentic and deeply personal travel experiences that are carefully choreographed to induce a life-long memory. In addition to offering published trips on seven continents, Horizon builds private custom trips for discerning individuals and small groups.

• Contact Information

  Horizon & Co.
  Tel: 1-800-387-2977
  Email: admin@horizon-co.com
  Web: www.horizon-co.com

• What's Included:

  • Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services

• What's not Included:

  • Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance

• Trip Terms & Conditions

  • Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $250). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure. We accept payment via credit card, certified check, wire transfer or money order.
  • Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
  • Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
  • Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
  • Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of deposit. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to 100% of program price.
  • Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.horizon-co.com/terms-and-conditions
  • Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.

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