CROATIA LAND & SEA with BUDAPEST in 13 days
7.899,00 USD
7.257,60 USD
Price per person + air
About this tour
Experience the Heart of Central Europe and Beyond
Begin your adventure in Budapest, a city perched on the majestic Danube River. Immerse yourself in centuries-old Habsburg elegance, unwind in soothing thermal baths, and sample a cuisine unlike any other in Europe.
Discover Croatia’s Hidden Gems
Venture into Croatia’s Baranja region, where the cultural tapestry is woven with delightful local dishes, exquisite churches, and the legendary Lipizzaner horses. Here, warm welcomes and traditional architecture make you feel instantly at home—more like a treasured guest than a traveler.
From Baranja, journey to Zagreb, Croatia’s refined capital whose stately boulevards and vibrant café culture evoke echoes of Vienna and Budapest. No trip through Croatia is complete without experiencing the lush forests, sparkling lakes, and cascading waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park, one of Europe’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders.
Cruise the Turquoise Adriatic
Cap off your travels with an eight-day luxury cruise along Croatia’s sun-kissed Adriatic coastline. Hop between the captivating islands of Brač, Hvar, Vis, Korčula, and Mljet, each embraced by turquoise waters that appear almost otherworldly. Sailing aboard our swift, comfortable yacht means you’ll reach hidden coves and charming harbors that remain off-limits to larger vessels.
A Perfectly Crafted Itinerary
Your journey is orchestrated by two experts: Krunoslav Weinpert, owner of Pointers Travel in Croatia, and David McGuffin, owner of Exploring Europe in the USA. Together, they’ve created a seamless blend of mainland exploration, coastal relaxation, and island-hopping adventure—showcasing Croatia at its most enchanting. Let us guide you through the magic of Central Europe and the Adriatic, and discover why this journey will be one you’ll remember for a lifetime.
Day 1: Arrival Budapest, Hungary
Arrival in Budapest during the day – independently – entering the hotel from 3:00 PM
Let’s begin with a meeting in our hotel lobby at 3:00 PM for introductions and information. Then, enjoy a walking tour along the river in Pest town center. See the massive Parliament Building and the Great Indoor Market Hall. Then we will meet for dinner at one of our favorite restaurants. Sleep for 2 nights in Budapest. Walking: moderate. (D).
3:00 PM-4:00 PM Welcome drinks and orientation
4:00 PM-7:00 PM Budapest Walking tour
7:30 PM-9:00 PM Dinner in the local restaurant.
Today, we’ll explore the Buda side of Budapest along the Danube with an invigorating trek up Castle Hill for a panoramic view of the city and its picturesque countryside. Your guided walking tour meanders past the Royal Palace and into the grand Matthias Church—one of Budapest’s top attractions. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to further discover this vibrant city at your own pace. For those seeking relaxation, your guide is available to help arrange a dip in a traditional public bath (swimwear required). We’ll then cap off the day with a stunning panoramic cruise on the Danube River. (Please note: the walking segment can be little bit strenuous.)
For travelers planning a comprehensive European vacation, consider complementing your Budapest experience with our Croatia guided tour.
About Budapest: Budapest, the capital of Hungary, has a population of over 1.7 million. It became a unique city in 1873 when Buda and Old Buda on the right bank of the Danube were united with Pest on the left (east) bank. It was the second center of the Austro-Hungarian monarchy, which disintegrated in 1918. This one of the most beautiful cities in Europe has many sights to offer.
Then, let’s cap off the evening with a panoramic cruise on the Danube River.
After breakfast, we’ll head out of the big city into the Baranja, a region between the Drava and Danube rivers. This hidden gem is filled with natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage. The area is renowned for its delicious white wines and traditional cuisine. You’ll enjoy being off the beaten path as we visit a Goldberg hills winery to sample their products. Later, we will feast at a country dinner in a Baranja vineyard with traditional tambura musicians and local food and wine. Sleep 1 night in Osijek. Driving: 4 hours. (B,D) Lunch stop at the highway restaurant in Hungary. All pax will choose and pay on their own.
Chek-in to apartments. Visit viewpoint vineyards Visit Winery Belje, Winery Weinpert, View Point Goldberg, Dinner at the Winery Weinpert (farm house ) Back to accomodation in Osijek.
Osijek is located in the east of Croatia. It lies in the plain on the right bank of the river Drava. Osijek is the greenest city of Croatia. The most important monument of the city is the fortress, the baroque historical core of the city from the time of the Austro-Hungarian monarchy. Accommodation in the hotel, dinner, overnight in Osijek.
After breakfast we will visit Ðakovo stables and have a lunch in Đakovo.
Ðakovo is in the heart of the Slavonia region of Croatia and is known for fine wine, a grand Cathedral, and the Lippizzaner stud farms and training facilities. Today, we will spend some time exploring all three. Pope John XXIII described the massive cathedral as “the most beautiful church between Venice and Constantinople.” We’ll learn the story of breeding Lippizzaners and perhaps see them in action at the nearby stud farm and pastures. Enjoy lunch and famous Slavonia wines in a traditional restaurant.
Upon arriving in Zagreb, Croatia’s vibrant capital, you will be driven directly to your hotel for check-in. Once settled, enjoy a one-hour walking orientation of the nearby historic area, followed by a free afternoon and evening to explore the city at your leisure.
Later, join our local guided walking tour to fully experience Zagreb’s rich history. The historic core is filled with magnificent Hapsburg architecture and fascinating stories from centuries past. After the tour, you will spend one night in Zagreb.
- Breakfast: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your Zagreb hotel.
- Travel to Plitvice Lakes: Depart for a scenic 2.5-hour drive (approximately 166 miles) to Plitvice Lakes National Park.
- Guided Park Tour: Explore Croatia’s largest, oldest, and most visited national park on a guided walking tour. Marvel at the sixteen cascading turquoise lakes and the abundant flora and fauna that make this natural wonder one of the top attractions in Croatia.
- Dinner: Later in the day, indulge in a traditional fine dining experience at Restaurant Lička kuća, which serves authentic regional cuisine.
- Overnight: Spend the night in comfortable accommodation near Plitvice Lakes to fully absorb the park’s unique beauty.
About Plitvice Lakes National Park:
Plitvice Lakes National Park is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and unparalleled natural beauty. As Croatia’s largest and most celebrated national park, its sixteen cascading turquoise lakes and rich biodiversity are simply indescribable—you have to see it to believe it! This experience is a must for anyone planning a vacation in Croatia and forms an essential highlight of any Croatia guided tour or Croatia tour itinerary. Whether you’re planning luxury travel in Croatia or a more traditional Croatia trip, a visit to Plitvice Lakes is one of the best vacation experiences in Croatia.
After breakfast, we’ll depart for the charming town of Sinj, nestled in the heart of Croatia’s Dalmatian hinterland. Sinj is steeped in history—generations have recounted how Our Lady of Sinj miraculously saved the town from the Ottoman army in 1715. The town is also famous for the annual Sinjska Alka, a traditional knight’s tournament commemorating that historic event.
Following a delicious lunch in Sinj, we continue our journey to Split, the largest city and key port in central Dalmatia. Once in Split, after saying goodbye to our driver and guide, you’ll have some free time to explore this vibrant city at your own pace and enjoy another meal if you wish.
Next, we invite you to board our ship for a luxurious seven-night coastal cruise along Croatia’s stunning shoreline—a perfect extension for your vacation in Croatia. Around 7:00 PM, we’ll hold a welcome meeting where our Cruise Manager will introduce you to the crew and your fellow passengers. This will be followed by a sumptuous welcome dinner served at 7:30 PM. You will spend the night in Split.
For those traveling with our Exploring Europe group, please note that cruise accommodations are shared among a maximum of 18 cabins, accommodating approximately 36 passengers. This exclusive arrangement ensures an intimate experience during your Croatia guided tour.
This segment of our Croatia tour itinerary is designed to provide an unforgettable blend of cultural exploration and luxury travel Croatia. Whether you’re looking to indulge in a boat tour Croatia or experience one of the best vacations in Croatia, this package promises top attractions in Croatia and a remarkable vacation experience.
Our friendly English-speaking guide will begin the day with a walking tour of Split, showcasing the world-famous Diocletian’s Palace. As the second-largest urban center in Croatia and the heart of the Split-Dalmatia County, Split boasts over 1,700 years of history. Its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979, is filled with remarkable cultural and architectural treasures.
At 12:00 PM, we’ll set sail for Trogir—another UNESCO-listed gem. Enjoy a delicious onboard lunch and a refreshing swim stop along the way as we cruise toward Trogir, arriving in the afternoon.
Trogir is a living museum, brimming with palaces, churches, monasteries, and towers. The highlight of this charming town is the Cathedral of St. Lawrence, widely regarded as one of the finest examples of sacred architecture in Croatia. A professional, English-speaking guide will then lead you on a tour of Trogir’s historic streets, ensuring you discover the top attractions that make this destination so unique.
After the tour, the evening is yours to explore at your leisure—stroll through the picturesque alleys, relax in a local café, or enjoy dinner at one of Trogir’s cozy taverns. Overnight accommodations are provided in the historic town of Trogir.
This segment is a key part of our Croatia guided tour, ideal for those seeking an unforgettable vacation in Croatia. Whether you’re interested in luxury travel in Croatia or an authentic cultural experience, our Croatia tour itinerary promises a truly memorable journey.
In the morning, we’ll set sail for Bol, a charming destination renowned for Zlatni Rat (Golden Cape), one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Once we arrive in Bol, take a leisurely stroll through this delightful Dalmatian town while enjoying its relaxed atmosphere. Lunch will be served on board before we continue our cruise to Vis.
Vis, once a significant strategic military stronghold, has remained largely untouched by excessive tourism. As a result, it boasts unspoiled beaches, eco-friendly agriculture, and traditional architecture. Spend the afternoon exploring the town of Vis, wandering through its picturesque stone streets, relaxing on pristine beaches, and savoring the offerings of its inviting taverns.
For those interested, we’ll organize an optional excursion around Vis Island, culminating in the charming fishing village of Komiža, where you can enjoy dinner at one of its cozy restaurants (reservations and payment can be made on the spot).
We’ll spend the night in Vis Town. (B, L)
We’ll set sail for the island of Biševo to visit the famous Blue Cave, one of the Adriatic Sea’s most stunning natural wonders. Accessible only by boat, this water-filled cave is known for its mesmerizing blue light. However, entrance to the Blue Cave depends on sea conditions, and high waves may prevent access. If we’re unable to enter the cave on the designated day, a full ticket refund will be provided.
After a swim stop and lunch on board, we’ll continue our journey, cruising along the scenic coves and bays toward Hvar, Croatia’s sunniest island. Hvar is renowned as one of the country’s most popular destinations and a hotspot for international jet setters.
Upon arrival in Hvar, a local English-speaking guide will take you on a walking tour, sharing the island’s rich history, vibrant culture, and unique way of life. After the tour, you’ll have the evening free to explore at your own pace and enjoy dinner at one of the many family-run restaurants or taverns.
Overnight stay in Hvar’s historic town. (B, L)
We’ll begin the day with a morning departure to the island of Korčula. Before lunch is served on board, we’ll make a stop for a refreshing swim in one of the pristine bays along the way. We’re scheduled to arrive at Korčula in the afternoon.
Korčula Town, the island’s main settlement, is famously known as the birthplace of Marco Polo, one of history’s greatest explorers. Upon arrival, our English-speaking guide will take you on a walking tour through the town’s narrow, cobbled streets, sharing its rich history and charm.
The rest of the evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure, with the opportunity to dine at one of the many local restaurants.
Overnight stay in Korčula’s historic town. (B, L)
We’ll depart from Korčula in the morning and set sail toward Mljet National Park. Upon arrival, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the park, stroll around the tranquil Great and Small Lakes, and visit the islet of St. Mary, home to a 12th-century Benedictine Monastery. Alternatively, you can take a refreshing swim in the heart of the park. Entrance fees to Mljet National Park are included. Make sure to return to the boat in time for lunch.
In the afternoon, we’ll continue cruising to Slano, a charming town on the mainland. Slano is one of the most picturesque spots on the Dubrovnik Riviera, known for its beautiful beach, lush pine forests, olive groves, rich cultural heritage, and historic landmarks.
In the evening, we’ll enjoy the Captain’s Dinner on board, complete with live music and entertainment.
Overnight stay in Slano.
(B, L, Captain’s Dinner with live music)
We’ll start the day with a morning departure to Dubrovnik, cruising past the stunning Elaphiti Islands with lunch served on board. Our journey takes us directly to the historic center of Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As we approach the city, we’ll cruise along its iconic city walls and fortifications, giving you the perfect opportunity to capture an unforgettable group photo of breathtaking Dubrovnik.
Once we disembark in the Old Town, our English-speaking guide will lead you on a tour of Dubrovnik’s most fascinating sights, sharing the rich history and culture of this extraordinary city. After the tour, you’ll have free time to explore on your own—stroll along the famous City Walls, take a cable car ride to the top of Mount Srđ for panoramic views, or enjoy an intimate farewell dinner at one of Dubrovnik’s many charming restaurants. A scheduled coach transfer back to Gruž Harbor will be arranged later in the evening.
Dubrovnik is often called the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” a name coined by the famous English poet Lord Byron. The city’s Old Town was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1979 and has since attracted millions of visitors every year. The historic center, protected by its 2-kilometer-long fortress walls, was built to defend against past invaders. Its main street, Stradun, is a lively meeting place for both locals and tourists. At the end of Stradun, you can admire the stunning Gothic-Renaissance Sponza Palace and the Rector’s Palace, both of which gained international fame as filming locations for the TV series Game of Thrones.
Overnight stay in Dubrovnik.
(B, L)
After breakfast, the time has come to say farewell to all your new friends. (B)
Spend the day as you wish, depending on your onward connections. If you need help organizing transportation to the airport or the city, just let us know a few days in advance, and we will arrange it for you.
Itinerary specifics are subject to change.
