Discover the Western Balkans & Adriatic Paradise Cruise 2023 (Zagreb - Split)

DAY 1 Zagreb
Welcome to Zagreb - the cultural heart of Croatia! On arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Enjoy dinner at the hotel and overnight in Zagreb. D

DAY 2 Zagreb – Bled – Ljubljana
After breakfast join a guided sightseeing tour of Zagreb, Croatia’s capital, and see the fortified Upper Town, the city’s historical centre, St Mark’s church with its multi-coloured roof and the Croatian National Theatre. Then, head for the Julian Alps in the early afternoon and stop by picturesque town of Bled. Marvel at its immense natural beauty with the mountains and forest surrounding an emerald glacial lake that looks like a scene taken right out of a classic fairy-tale. Bled, together with its cliff top castle and its enchanting little island with a church in the middle of the lake, ranks among the most beautiful alpine resorts and is renowned also for its mild, healing climate and thermal lake water. BD

DAY 3 Ljubljana – Plitvice
See the most significant sights of Ljubljana’s Old Town as you embark on a morning sightseeing tour that includes the picturesque Central open-air Market and the Three Bridges, the Baroque Town Hall and Robba’s Fountain. Leave the capital city behind and continue your journey to Plitvice Lakes to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its natural beauty, the national park has 16 crystal-blue lakes cascading into 92 spectacular waterfalls that is sure to provide many great photo opportunities. Enjoy dinner and overnight in Plitvice area. BD

DAY 4 Plitvice – Zadar – Split
Depart for Zadar where you will join a guided sightseeing tour through the Roman Forum that dates back to the 1st century BC. Pass by the 9th century pre-Romanesque church of St. Donatus as well as St. Anastasia church. Afterwards, proceed towards Split where you will board your Adriatic Paradise cruise. Dinner and overnight in Split. BD

DAY 5 CRUISE: Split – Hvar – Korcula
This morning join a walking tour of Split's famous Diocletian Palace. Discover the secrets of centuries past in what is today the vibrant core of Dalmatia's largest city. After, cruise towards the island of Hvar, celebrated for the purple of its lavender and rosemary, the red of its wines and its beautiful coast and lovely historical towns. Upon arrival, join a guided walking tour around Hvar town. Continue your cruise on to Korcula island and enjoy a swim stop near Pakleni Islands before making your way to Vela Luka on Korcula Island. A Captain's dinner will be served on board tonight with some live entertainment also included. BD

DAY 6 CRUISE: Korcula – Mljet – Slano
Enjoy a swim stop at one of the secluded bays this morning before cruising on to the lush, green island of Mljet. Join an Optional Excursion to visit Mljet National Park, known for its stunning natural beauty and its two turquoise salt lakes surrounded by thick forest. Here, you will have plenty of free time to explore the park individually. Perhaps rent a bike and cycle your way around the trail, hire a kayak and take to the waters, or take a stroll on the numerous paths around the lakes and forest. In the late afternoon, depart for the peaceful village of Slano. Overnight in Slano. BL

DAY 7 CRUISE: Slano – Dubrovnik
Make the most of some free time this morning to relax or join an Optional Excursion of the Taste of Dalmatia where you will visit Ston, a small town with a big reputation. Famous for its strong wine, succulent oysters and mussels, ancient salt works, as well as a 5 km long defensive city walls (the longest one in Europe), Ston offers a range of attractions and interests. Your tour includes a visit to a local vineyard to taste some of the finest Dalmatian wines. Back on board, there’ll be an opportunity to take a dip in the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic before arriving in Dubrovnik for a guided tour of the city’s Old Town. Surrounded by immense city walls and iconic facades, be transported to the sets of your favourite movie and TV shows such as Game of Thrones, Star Wars and Robin Hood. The remainder of the evening is at leisure for you to continue your exploration of Dubrovnik. BL

DAY 8 CRUISE: Dubrovnik – Elaphite Islands – Korcula
Southern Dalmatia holds many gems, one of which is the beautiful Elaphite archipelago which lies between Dubrovnik and Korcula. Stop for a spot of swimming by these pristine and alluring islands en-route to Korcula.
Lunch will be served on board before a late afternoon arrival into Korcula Town. A walking tour will introduce you to the city’s long history, ingenious building strategies, peculiar building layout and a legend of a great merchant traveller Marco Polo who was born and spent his childhood in the streets of Korcula. Overnight in Korcula. BL

DAY 9 CRUISE: Korcula – Makarska
Whilst dining on breakfast, admire the scenery as you pass the central Dalmatian islands on one side and the high mountains of the mainland on the other. Enjoy a swim stop before lunch and then spend the afternoon in the gorgeous seaside town of Makarska. Take a stroll through the historic town centre and past romantic little alleys and squares with plenty of shops, cafés and restaurants. With the striking Biokovo mountains offering a magnificent backdrop, Makarska is sure to delight those seeking relaxation as well as adventure. BL

DAY 10 CRUISE: Makarska – Brac – Split
This morning enjoy a scenic sail to Split with a refreshing dip along the way. Stop by the island of Brac to visit the homeland of 'the Croatian marble'. Join a walking tour to the still-operating stonemasonry school in Pucisca renowned for its quality limestone that has been used in structures such as the facade of the White House and the Bundestag in Berlin. Continue on to Split where you will overnight. BL

DAY 11 CRUISE: Split
Enjoy a farewell breakfast with your fellow travellers, Captain and crew. Disembark after breakfast and transfer to your onward arrangements. B


Key: B - Breakfast, L - Lunch, D - Dinner