Middle South Dalmatia Exploration Self-Drive

Arrive at Dubrovnik Airport, collect your rental car and drive to your hotel for check-in. Begin exploring the city at your own pace—wander through the charming streets within the ancient city walls. We recommend joining a guided tour of the Old Town, one of the world’s finest medieval towns. Enclosed by impressive stone walls, Dubrovnik was once the capital of the Republic of Ragusa and is rich in palaces, churches and historic monuments. The entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its remarkable preservation and architectural heritage. Overnight in Dubrovnik.

After breakfast, we suggest a day trip to Montenegro. Drive to Kotor, a coastal town nestled in a secluded bay, historically known as Cattaro. Explore Kotor’s UNESCO-listed old town, a maze of cobbled streets lined with museums, churches, palaces and lively squares filled with local cafés and restaurants, all enclosed by medieval walls. We include a climb of around two thousand steps to reach panoramic viewpoints overlooking the bay. Later, enjoy traditional Montenegrin cuisine in the port area before returning to Dubrovnik for the night.

After breakfast, we leave Dubrovnik and drive to the Split region. Upon arrival, you will check in to your accommodation and have the remainder of the day at your leisure to settle in and explore the local area. Overnight in the Split region.

After breakfast, explore Split and its surroundings. The city’s heart is Diocletian’s Palace, a vast and remarkably well-preserved Roman complex built by the emperor Diocletian. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the palace forms the centre of Split and offers a fascinating glimpse into its imperial past. You can include the palace in your walking tour of the city, then enjoy free time to wander the cobbled streets, browse local shops, have lunch at a traditional restaurant, or relax with a coffee along the bustling seafront promenade. Overnight in the Split region.

After breakfast, enjoy a free day to explore the Split region at your leisure. We suggest taking a day trip to one of the nearby islands—either Brač or Hvar. Brač, the largest island in Dalmatia and the third largest in the Adriatic, is known for its famous Zlatni Rat beach in Bol, the marina in Milna, and its distinctive white limestone, which was used in Diocletian’s Palace. The island also boasts a stone masonry school in Pučišća, the oldest preserved text in the Croatian language, and high-quality olive oil with protected designation of origin. Alternatively, Hvar is celebrated for its Venetian architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Hvar Town, the island’s capital, features the oldest public theatre in Europe and hosts the annual Hvar Summer Festival at historic venues such as the Franciscan Monastery and the Arsenal. Don’t miss climbing to the Spanish Fortress for panoramic views over the town and the Pakleni Islands. Overnight in the Split region.

After breakfast, you can choose to explore the historic town of Trogir or visit Krka National Park. Trogir is often described as a living museum, renowned for its well-preserved architecture and rich cultural heritage. The 13th-century Cathedral of St Lawrence stands out with its exquisite Radovan portal, a significant medieval masterpiece in the eastern Adriatic. Wander through the Renaissance loggia, narrow streets and charming squares, where numerous cafes, restaurants, galleries and shops create a vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere. Alternatively, Krka National Park, located along the Krka River, is famous for its series of seven waterfalls set amid pristine natural surroundings. Walking trails lead you to an ethnographic collection and an old mill, offering insight into the region’s traditional way of life. We spend the night in the Split region.

After breakfast, we drive back to Dubrovnik. Upon arrival, you will check in to your hotel and have the remainder of the day at leisure to enjoy the city at your own pace. This is a great opportunity to revisit favourite spots or discover new corners within the historic walls. Overnight in Dubrovnik.

Enjoy a leisurely final morning in Croatia savouring breakfast at your hotel. After check-out, drive to Dubrovnik Airport to return your rental car and prepare for your onward flight.