Croatia Highlights Self-Drive

Upon arrival at Dubrovnik Airport, you will be welcomed by our local representative who will assist with your car hire and provide guidance for your departure day. You will then drive to your hotel to check in before beginning your exploration of Dubrovnik. Take time to wander the city’s streets within its impressive medieval walls, renowned as one of the most beautiful old towns in the world. The historic Republic of Ragusa’s capital is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, rich with palaces, churches and striking stone architecture. We recommend joining our optional sightseeing tour of the old town to uncover its highlights with a knowledgeable guide. Overnight in Dubrovnik.

After breakfast, we continue your journey towards Šibenik and Biograd na Moru, ideal gateways to the stunning national parks of Paklenica and Krka. We explore the spectacular waterfalls and landscapes of Krka National Park, and you can enjoy hiking trails in Paklenica Park. Alternatively, you may choose to join our optional three-hour guided tour of Krka National Park with an English-speaking guide (entrance fee payable locally). We spend the night in Biograd na Moru.

After breakfast, set out to explore the medieval towns of Šibenik and Biograd na Moru, both gateways to stunning national parks. Alternatively, you may choose to visit one of the nearby natural reserves—Paklenica, Kornati, or Telašćica—each offering unique landscapes and outdoor experiences. For a deeper insight, we offer an optional three-hour guided tour of Krka National Park, where you can walk among remarkable waterfalls and lush scenery (entrance fee not included). Return to Biograd na Moru for your overnight stay.

After breakfast, depart for Zagreb and check in to your hotel. Take time to explore the city on foot, beginning with Ilica, Zagreb’s longest street, which separates the historic Upper Town from the lively Lower Town. The Upper Town is home to notable landmarks such as St. Mark’s Church with its colourful tiled roof, Lotrščak Tower, the funicular railway, Stone Gate, and traditional gas streetlamps. This area includes Gradec and Kaptol, the oldest parts of the city. Visit Dolac Market, one of Europe’s few remaining open-air markets, and the main square, Ban Jelačić Square. You might like to pause at one of the many outdoor cafés that contribute to Zagreb’s reputation as Europe’s largest café culture. Overnight in Zagreb.

After breakfast, you can choose to explore the charming surroundings of Zagreb. Visit the historic town of Samobor, known for its delightful cream cake, kremšnita, a local speciality. Alternatively, explore Hrvatsko Zagorje with its impressive Veliki Tabor fortress and museum, or visit the picturesque Trakošćan Castle. If you prefer to stay in the city, we offer an optional two-hour guided tour of Zagreb to uncover its highlights and hidden gems. For wine enthusiasts, there is also an optional wine tasting experience where you can sample top Croatian wines alongside local meats and cheeses, while learning about wine and food pairing from a sommelier. Overnight in Zagreb.

After breakfast, depart for Split, enjoying the scenic drive to one of Croatia’s most captivating cities. Upon arrival, explore the old town on foot, wandering through the narrow alleys surrounding the remarkable Diocletian’s Palace – a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the fourth century. We recommend joining a sightseeing tour to fully appreciate the history and architecture of this stunning coastal city. Overnight in Split.

After breakfast, begin your journey along the stunning coastline with panoramic views of Cetina Canyon. Stop in Omiš, a town known for its pirate history and medieval fortresses, including the 13th-century Mirabella Fortress and the 15th-century Starigrad Fortress (Fortica). Omiš also offers a lovely sandy public beach lined with restaurants and cafés. Afterwards, visit Trogir, a small coastal town renowned for its wealth of Romanesque and Renaissance architecture, which earned it UNESCO World Heritage status in 1997. Alternatively, you may choose to join our two-hour Split and Trogir city tour with a private guide to uncover hidden gems. For wine enthusiasts, there is an optional tasting experience featuring authentic Croatian wines and olive oils from Dalmatia and Istria, paired with local delicacies such as fleur de sel, aged red wine vinegar, and freshly baked bread (minimum two participants required). Overnight in Split.

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and set off for Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina. This picturesque city, perched on the banks of the Neretva River, is renowned for its striking landscapes, distinctive architecture, and vibrant local culture. We will walk across the iconic Old Bridge, explore the narrow, winding streets, visit the bustling bazaar, the historic Turkish house, and the elegant mosque, experiencing the unique blend of Mediterranean and Ottoman influences. You may also choose to join our optional two-hour guided tour of Mostar to gain deeper insight into the city’s rich heritage. Overnight in Mostar.

After breakfast and hotel check-out, begin your drive back towards Croatia, heading to Dubrovnik. Enjoy the scenic route through charming villages, soaking up the peaceful natural surroundings. Once in Dubrovnik, take time to wander the streets and embrace the Mediterranean atmosphere—perhaps stop for lunch at a local restaurant or relax with a coffee on a stylish terrace. Overnight in Dubrovnik.

After breakfast, enjoy a full day at leisure in Dubrovnik, often called the Pearl of the Adriatic. Take a walk along the ancient city walls that once protected this refined republic and admire its medieval architecture, limestone streets, baroque buildings and the sparkling Adriatic coastline. You might choose to relax on one of the city’s beaches, enjoy a glass of wine at a cliff-side bar, or browse the boutiques for unique souvenirs. For those wishing to delve deeper, we offer an optional two-hour Dubrovnik city tour with a private guide, exploring the city’s rich medieval history. Fans of Game of Thrones can join a special excursion to Fortress Lovrijenac, known as The Red Keep, to see iconic filming locations such as King’s Landing, the Battle of Blackwater Bay, and the House of the Undying dungeon. The tour also includes a boat trip to the nearby island of Lokrum, where you can discover its history and recent transformation into the enchanting city of Quarth. Don’t forget to bring some treats for the island’s friendly peacocks. Overnight in Dubrovnik.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before checking out of your hotel. You will then drive to Dubrovnik Airport to return your rental car and prepare for your onward flight.