CROATIA: Split, Plitvice Lakes, Zadar, Trogir, Hvar, Stari Grad, Korčula, Orebić, Ston, Dubrovnik || MONTENEGRO: Kotor, Perast;
COUNTRIES: 2 | CITIES: 11 | EXPERIENCES: 8
TRIP EXTENSIONS:
Welcome to our 8-day tour of the breathtaking Croatian and Montenegrin coastline!
This trip will thoroughly explore the Croatian and Montenegrin parts of the Adriatic sea. During this trip, we will take you on a journey from the charming city of Split to the picturesque town of Kotor, with stops in some of the most beautiful and iconic locations along the way, such as Dubrovnik, the islands of Korcula and Hvar and so much more.
You will start in Split, a city known for its rich history and beautiful beaches, before taking a ferry to the island of Hvar to explore one of the most beautiful Croatian islands.
On Hvar, you can relax on its stunning beaches and explore its charming old town. You will then continue your journey towards Dubrovnik, the pearl of the Adriatic and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Croatia. On the way to Dubrovnik, we will explore the beautiful Peljesac peninsula, the town of Ston, and Korcula island.
After a few days in Dubrovnik, you will cross the border into Montenegro and visit the coastal town of Budva before ending your trip in Kotor, a charming town nestled in the Bay of Kotor.
Along the way, you will have the opportunity to visit ancient Roman ruins and medieval castles and sample the delicious local cuisine. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!
Itinerary Note: We have created an 8 day round trip itinerary which starts in Split and ends in Dubrovnik or Kotor. However, if you prefer this program to start and end somewhere else (i.e. Dubrovnik, Tivat or Podgorica), feel free to let us know and we are happy to adjust this itinerary to your needs.
Destination: Split, Croatia
Accommodation: 4* Hotel
Driving Time:0.30hrs | Private Vehicle
Arrival Note:Depending on your arrival time to Split on the first day, we shall check you into your 4* accommodation, and we are ready to do some exciting explorations of the Split.
We’ll start the day with a visit to the historical Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. It was built in the 4th century as a retirement home for the Roman Emperor Diocletian. On the locally guided walking tour, we’ll explore the Temple of Jupiter, the Peristyle, the Basement Halls, the Cathedral of St.Dominus, and other ancient remains while walking the narrow streets of the palace’s underground cellars.
Later we’ll head to the Split Riva, the city’s main promenade, and take in the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. An optional stop at one of the many coffee shops or restaurants along the Riva to enjoy a refreshing drink or snack is very recommended.
We recommend finishing the day in the evening with a relaxing dinner at one of the city’s many seafood restaurants and enjoying some of the freshest seafood on the Adriatic Coast.
Destination: Split, Croatia
Accommodation: 4* Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Driving Time:1.30hrs | Private Vehicle
Activity Note: Today’s itinerary includes walking on uneven terrain. Make sure to have some water with you, and always pay attention to the present-day weather forecast.
After a delicious breakfast at your 4* accommodation, we are exploring the historic city of Trogir, which is about 20 minutes outside Split.
Trogir is known for its narrow streets, medieval architecture, and picturesque squares. During our locally guided walking tour, we will learn that the ancient Greeks founded Trogir and has a rich history dating back over 2,000 years.
Trogir is home to several important landmarks, including the Cathedral of St. Lawrence, the Cipiko Palace, and the Kamerlengo Fortress. The city is known for its fine arts and culture, and it is home to several galleries, museums, and theaters.
After the walking tour, you will have some free time to explore Trogir on your own and lunch break. Trogir is known for its delicious seafood, and it is a great place to try some of the region’s specialties, such as grilled octopus or seafood risotto.
In the afternoon we are driving to Solin.
Solin is a small city located in the Split-Dalmatia County of Croatia. It is located just a few kilometers northwest of Split and is known for its rich history and cultural heritage.
The city was founded by the ancient Romans and was known as Salona. It was once the capital of the Roman province of Dalmatia and was an important center of trade and commerce. Solin is home to several important landmarks, including the ruins of the ancient Roman amphitheater and the Basilica of St. Mary.
At Solin, we give you free time to explore ancient Roman ruins.
On the way back to Split, we can optionally visit the stunning Klis fortress.
Klis Fortress is a medieval castle located in the Croatian region of Dalmatia. The fortress was built in the 9th century and has played an essential role in defending the area from invaders over the centuries. It has played a role in many important events in Croatian history, including the Croatian-Hungarian Wars and the Ottoman Wars.
It is located on a hill overlooking the city of Split and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
The afternoon is your free time for either exploring Split further on your own or having some leisure time on one of Split’s sunny beaches.
WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU HAVE FREE TIME IN SPLIT?
Marjan, the hill overlooking Split, with the highest peak of 178 meters, has always been the most impressive part of the image of Split. On the one hand, it is rarely possible to experience such a harmony of nature and urbanism, a densely populated city in all its splendor, and on the other, a peninsula of almost untouched nature. The Holy Hill, as it is often called, hides many monuments of sacred and profane architecture, combined with this green oasis in such a way that they create a feeling of admiration and awe even for the everyday passer-by.
Bačvice beach, the most popular in Split, is well known for Picigin, a game included in the UNESCO intangible cultural heritage. Picigin is played in shallow water. Players throw the ball to each other with acrobatics. The ball must not fall into the sea. The game’s goal is to keep the ball in the air as long as possible. If you don’t decide to play, there are cocktail bars and nightclubs nearby for relaxing and enjoying the game played by locals and tourists as well.
Žnjan is the largest beach in Split, ideal for families with children. Bene is a beach located at the foot of Marjan hill. The exceptional natural beauty of the Marjan Forest characterizes it.
The beach is almost entirely located in the forest, meaning there is plenty of natural shade. Kasjuni is a large pebble beach, a favorite among visitors and locals. It is located on the southern side of Marjan, a few kilometers away from Ben. Many people consider Kasjune the most beautiful beach in Split. Firule is located between Žnjan and Bačvici. Just like Bačvice, Firule is a sandy beach ideal for picigin.
Visit the Split City Museum, located in the heart of the city, and showcases the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. Check out the Split Art Gallery, home to a collection of Croatian and international art from the 19th and 20th centuries. Visit the Split Archaeological Museum, which is located in the heart of the city and features a collection of ancient artifacts from the region.
Destination: Split, Croatia
Accommodation: 4* Hotel
Meals Included:Breakfast
Driving Time:4.30hrs | Private Vehicle
Activity Note: Use the Funky Tours benefits of your optional day and decide what kind of activity you would like to engage with on Day 3. Our recommended plan of the day is to visit Plitvice Lakes and Zadar, while on the other hand, you can opt for a free day or visit Krka National Park. As we completely understand that a bit of flexibility during the travels is quite an important thing, we love when we can to give our guests the option to choose what kind of travel style they prefer.
Spending a day exploring the stunning landscapes of Plitvice National Park and the historic city of Zadar is a must-do for anyone visiting Croatia.
We are leaving Split to Plitvice National Park in the early morning. The journey takes about 2 hours and takes you through the beautiful Croatian countryside.
Plitvice National Park is a stunning natural area located in the heart of Croatia. It is known for its beautiful waterfalls, lakes, and hiking trails and is one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. Plitvice National Park has several important landmarks, including the Great Waterfall and the Upper Lakes. The park’s hiking trails offer a variety of difficulty levels, so there is something for everyone, whether you are an experienced hiker or just looking for a leisurely walk through the forest.
In addition to its natural beauty, Plitvice National Park also has a rich history. It was established as a national park in 1949 and was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1979. It is a must-see destination for any visitor to Croatia, and it offers something for everyone, from nature lovers to history buffs.
After exploring Plitvice National Park, you’ll have the opportunity to have lunch at one of the Lika region’s stunning local restaurants.
In the afternoon, you’ll leave Plitvice National Park and head to Zadar, located about 1.5 hours away.
Upon arriving in Zadar, on the walking tour, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the city’s many landmarks, such as the Sea Organ (a unique musical instrument is located on the city’s waterfront and consists of a series of tubes and pipes that create music as the waves of the sea pass through them), the Greeting to the Sun (interactive light installation is located on the city’s waterfront and consists of a series of solar panels that create a light show as the sun sets), the St. Anastasia Cathedral (the beautiful cathedral is located in the heart of the city and features a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architecture), the Zadar City Walls (ancient walls were built in the 9th century and offer panoramic views of the city and the sea) and, the Zadar Riva (famous waterfront promenade runs along the edge of the city and offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea).
In the later afternoon, you will have some free time in Zadar to explore the city on your own, have sunset drinks at Zadar Riva or have a late afternoon lunch dinner.
After a full day of exploring, you’ll head back to your accommodation in Split and relax after a memorable day of sightseeing. Free evening and dinner on your own.
Destination: Hvar, Croatia
Accommodation: Hotel 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Driving Time:2.15hrs | Private Vehicle
For the next two days, we are exploring the magnificent island of Hvar.
Hvar is a Croatian island in the Adriatic Sea, located off the Dalmatian coast, less than two hours ferry ride away from Split.
It is the most extended island in the Adriatic Sea and is known for its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and Mediterranean charm. The island has a rich history, with ancient Greek and Roman influences and a long wine-making tradition.
Hvar Town, the island's main settlement, is a popular tourist destination for its beautiful squares, charming streets, and a 13th-century fortress overlooking the town.
Upon arrival on the island and docking at the ferry harbor in Stari Grad, we shall have a locally guided tour Hvar town. Beautifully preserved Venetian architecture, Hvar's port, fortress Fortica, and the magical St.Stephen square with nearby Paklinski islands make the Hvar island the most visited of all southern Dalmatian islands.
After pleasant explorations of the Hvar island's main two towns and delicious lunch, we shall check into our accommodation in the afternoon. The later afternoon is free for some great beach time at some of the beautiful beaches of Hvar island.
Aside of being known for its cultural and historical monuments, Hvar is also known for its endless fields of the prized Hvar lavender, an excellent gastronomic offer with top wines (Hvar's Plavac is widely known), and the beauty of the nearby Paklinski Islands. and so much more.
If you are doing summertime explorations of Hvar, an unmissable experience could be a visit to the famous Paklinski islands for beach time or party time at one of the local bars and clubs.
Destination: Hvar, Croatia
Accommodation: Hotel 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Activity Note: Use the Funky Tours benefits of your optional day and decide what kind of activity you would like to engage with on Day 4. Spend a day just chilling at some of the most beautiful Hvar beaches (included in the standard itinerary price), or optionally take a locally guided tour and explore Hvar on a different basis.
EXPERIENCES TO CONSIDER ON YOUR FREE DAY IN HVAR?
Aside from the stunning beaches, unrivaled nightlife, and beautiful towns of Hvar and Stari Grad, part of the visit to Hvar should include learning more about the island’s wine, olive oil, and lavender production.
If you prefer to explore Hvar island on your own, we can recommend an e-bike tour or kayak tour to Pakleni Islands.
Explore places like beautiful Milna, Velo and Malo Grablje, Fortica fort, and stunning Dubovica and Pokonji Dol beaches. E-bikes can be rented and paid for on the spot. Reservation in advance is needed.
Get up close and personal with the beautiful Croatian coast on this stunning kayaking tour of Hvar and the Pakleni Islands. Choose your departure time, and upon arrival, you’ll receive an open kayak, dry bag, safety and snorkel gear, a map of the area, and directions based on your personal preferences. After the safety demonstration, set off and explore the landscape at your own pace and for the duration that best suits your schedule.
Visit some of the best and most authentic wineries and olive oil producers on the entire island of Hvar. Learn the centuries-old traditions and customs of producing the best wines and olive oil. During the summer season, as a bonus, walk through the beautiful lavender fields.
Destination: Dubrovnik, Croatia
Accommodation: Hotel 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Driving Time:2.30hrs | Private Vehicle
Activity Note: During the summer time from the 1st of April until the 31st of August, there is a direct catamaran (passenger boat) line between Hvar and Korčula, so instead of using the main road, we shall be doing a direct catamaran ride from Hvar to Korčula.
In the early morning, we leave the northern part of the island of Hvar, and during a 45-minute drive, we arrive at its southernmost part small village of Sućuraj, where we catch the ferry to Drvenik.
The 24km Hvar road passes through picturesque villages and constantly offers beautiful views of the Adriatic Sea.
As soon as we reach the mainland, we continue south towards Dubrovnik. But before that, on the way to Dubrovnik, we will stop at another unmissable island on the Adriatic coast, the beautiful island of Korčula.
To get to Korčula, we have to take another short ferry ride from the town of Orebić to Korcula.
The town of Korčula, also known as “Little Dubrovnik,” is the home of Marco Polo, is the island’s main settlement, and is one of its biggest attractions. The Old Town of Korčula is a well-preserved, medieval walled town that is home to several historical landmarks and monuments, such as the Cathedral of St. Mark and the Bishop’s Palace.
A locally guided walking tour of Korcula town, followed by free time on your own for tasty lunch or drinks at some of the fantastic Korčula bars and cafes, is a must-have.
Later, we catch the ferry back to Orebić, and on the way to Dubrovnik, we will have a short stop at Ston and optionally visit the magnificent Walls of Ston.
Ston is known for its well-preserved medieval walls, which are the second longest in Europe after the Great Wall of China. The walls, which were built in the 14th century, stretch for about 5 km and offer stunning views of the surrounding area. Walking the whole length of the walls or just part is up to you.
Ston is also known for its oysters grown in the nearby Mali Ston Bay. If desired, an early dinner be the local oysters in one of the few Ston restaurants.
Arrival to Dubrovnik is in the afternoon, checking into your hotel and free time for the rest of the evening.
WHEN YOU HAVE FREE EVENING IN DUBROVNIK
Since the arrival in Dubrovnik is in the late afternoon, you can spend the evening time after checking into the hotel in one of the following ways, which we wholeheartedly recommend:
Late evening hours are great for exploring the old town of Dubrovnik, as the crowds are less and most cruise ships have finished their visits and probably sailed on. That is why, for evening explorations of Dubrovnik, we especially recommend that you have dinner with a drink or two in one of Dubrovnik’s excellent restaurants on the recommendation of your Funky Tours guide. A late evening walk after dinner is a great addition.
Buža bar is located on the southern part of the walls of the old city of Dubrovnik. Buža literally means hole, so you can get to the bar of the same name by passing through one of the holes in the city walls. The views of the cliffs, the beautiful Adriatic Sea, and incredible sunsets are almost unbelievable.
Alternatively, you can take a ride on the Dubrovnik cable car and visit the Srđ hill above the city of Dubrovnik. In addition to superb views of the city and the Adriatic Sea, on Srđ hill you can also see the Austro-Hungarian fortress with a museum, which was one of the most important fortifications during the Serbian-Montenegrin aggression and attack on the city of Dubrovnik in 1991.
Destination: Dubrovnik, Croatia
Accommodation: Hotel 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we are exploring the town of Dubrovnik, a city of walls and a favorite stop for fans of Game of Thrones. After a delicious breakfast, we will head towards exploring the medieval core of the old town of Dubrovnik with our local host and resident, who will introduce us to the city, its culture, history, and people in depth while discovering the 1400-year history of the town.
We will navigate the old town labyrinth through the white limestone-paved streets and admire the crowning walls and medieval homes surrounded by 15th-century fortification walls for at least a few hours.
You will have a chance to visit the gothic-renaissance Rector’s Palace; the baroque-style Cathedral of the Assumption, built in the 18th century; and the landmark Bell Tower, which looms 31 meters over Luza Square, etc., and learn every important story this city can tell.
The afternoon and rest of the day, we will let you soak up the DNA of the Dubrovnik on your own.
Whether you prefer taking a cable car to the craggy Mt. Srdj, walking the Dubrovnik city walls, discovering the spots where your favorite TV show, Game of Thrones, was filmed, or simply prefer some relaxing time enjoying this Adriatic pearl at the beach, waiting for spectacular sunset colors, Dubrovnik will never fail to disappoint you.
WHEN YOU HAVE FREE AFTERNOON IN DUBROVNIK
Since the arrival in Dubrovnik is in the late afternoon, you can spend the evening time after checking into the hotel in one of the following ways, which we wholeheartedly recommend:
Walking around the walls of Dubrovnik in the late afternoon is a unique experience. During summer, avoid the crowds and the heat and climb the walls after 5 o’clock.
Experience Dubrovnik from the seaside on an afternoon kayak tour. Together with a local guide and equipment for kayaking and snorkeling, paddle and swim next to the medieval walls of Dubrovnik, and explore hidden beaches and caves. A warm recommendation is a kayak tour in the evening hours, when you can experience the unique sunset on the walls of Dubrovnik.
Destination: Dubrovnik (alternatively Kotor – Split – Sarajevo)
Accommodation: Not included in package price. The tour ends on the evening of day 8.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Activity Note: This is the last day of the Adriatic Coastline Journey, meaning the tour ends in the afternoon hours of Day 8. The standard end of the tour is Dubrovnik or Kotor, but you can also opt to end in Split, Tirana, or Sarajevo.
A day trip from Dubrovnik to Perast and Kotor is a great way to see some beautiful and historic towns along the Montenegrin coast. After leaving Dubrovnik in the early morning, a 1.30-hour ride will take us across the border of Croatia to Montenegro, where the first town we visit is the beautiful town of Perast.
Perast is a baroque village in the municipality of Kotor with its two stunning islets: Sveti Djordje (St. George) as a natural one and Gospa od Škrpjela (Our Lady of the Rocks) as an artificial one. Historically crucial for its naval history, Perast strategically stands opposite of the only water entrance to Kotor bay.
After a pleasant short walk through Perast village, we are ready to take a short boat ride to the islet of Our Lady of the Rocks. Today, the islet with its church, beautiful frescoes, and a small museum is one of the biggest attractions of the Bay of Kotor.
This activity will take around 30-40min, and once we are back to Perast, we will continue exploring other unique parts of the Montenegro coastline.
After thoroughly enjoying our time in Perast and its beautiful islands, after just 15min of additional driving, we are arriving to Kotor.
The tour of Kotor will take us via hidden cobble-stoned streets, giving us an opportunity for an in-depth understanding of Kotor’s history and cultural background. In the present day, originating from the Venetian era but mentioned initially during the Roman era as a strategic position on the Adriatic sea, the Kotor, throughout its nearly two millennia-long histories, has been through many ups and downs. Since Romans, followed by Illyirians, Slavs, Hungarians, Serbian, Venetians, French, Austrians, Yugoslavians, and today finally part of modern Montenegro, the Kotor has seen many empires passing by while leaving part of their history engraved within heavily fortified walls of Kotor.
Learning specifics about the past and presence of Kotor while admiring the narrow stone streets, stone churches, stone walls, high mountains above, small windows with drying laundry, a ton of cats, hidden bars and cafes, and so much more, is a great way to experience UNESCO heritage of Kotor town.
The afternoon hours are accessible on your own to explore Kotor.
Return to Dubrovnik is in the later afternoon when the tour officially ends.
If you prefer this tour to end in Kotor or elsewhere in Montenegro, Bosnia, and Herzegovina, we are happy to organize that.
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