14 days, 13 nights (of which 7 days sailing the Adriatic Sea)
Specific Tour
20 people
Croatian, English
Budapest, located along one of Europe’s largest rivers, the Danube, is rich in Habsburg charm, renowned for its warm thermal baths, and offers a unique cuisine that distinguishes it from other European cities.
For those interested in an unforgettable journey, consider a travel agency for exploring Croatia and the stunning Adriatic coast. The Croatian region of Baranja is filled with culture, delightful cuisine, exquisite churches, and the famed Lipizzaner horses. Here, you’ll find traditional architecture and warm hospitality, making you feel like part of the family.
Zagreb, the elegant capital of Croatia, showcases a sophisticated blend of Habsburg influences reminiscent of both Vienna and Budapest.
A highlight of your travels will be Plitvice Lakes National Park, where tropical greenery, azure lakes, and cascading waterfalls create one of Europe’s most breathtaking natural attractions.
Join us for an eight-day cruise that promises a luxury experience in Croatia along the stunning Adriatic coast. As you explore the islands of Brač, Hvar, Vis, Korčula, and Mljet, the mesmerizing turquoise sea surrounding them is sure to leave you enchanted.
Our fast and versatile yacht will take you to hidden gems and historic cities that larger vessels cannot reach, allowing for a unique exploration of the region. This carefully crafted itinerary combines the expertise of Krunoslav Weinpert, owner of Pointers Travel in Croatia, and David McGuffin, owner of Exploring Europe in the USA, showcasing the perfect blend of Croatia’s mainland, breathtaking coast, and captivating islands. Experience the magic of Croatia like never before!
Tour Highlights: From Budapest to Dubrovnik
1. Budapest – The Pearl of the Danube
Marvel at the architectural grandeur of the Parliament Building and Buda Castle.
Stroll across the Chain Bridge and enjoy panoramic views from the Fisherman’s Bastion.
Experience the vibrant thermal baths and local cuisine.
2. Osijek – The Heart of Slavonia
Explore the charming Tvrđa Fortress, a blend of Baroque and modern vibes.
Visit Kopački Rit Nature Park, a stunning wetland rich in wildlife.
Savor local wines and traditional Slavonian delicacies.
3. Zagreb – Croatia’s Vibrant Capital
Walk the cobblestone streets of Upper Town (Gornji Grad) with its historic churches and quaint cafes.
Admire the colorful St. Mark’s Church and the bustling Dolac Market.
Relax in Maksimir Park or enjoy cultural experiences in the city’s many museums.
4. Plitvice Lakes – A Natural Wonder
Wander through the breathtaking network of 16 interconnected turquoise lakes and cascading waterfalls.
Enjoy tranquil wooden pathways surrounded by lush greenery.
5. Sinj between continent and coast, hiden and unique city with cultural heritage
Situated in the Croatian south, near Split, in the paradise of water, fields and stone.
Sinj forms part of the Split-Dalmatia County.
6. Split – Ancient Meets Modern
Explore the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace, a living Roman-era monument.
Stroll along the vibrant Riva promenade.
Visit local markets and indulge in Dalmatian specialties.
7. Island Brač – Serenity and Stunning Beaches
Relax on Zlatni Rat Beach, one of Croatia’s most iconic shorelines.
Discover charming villages and the island’s rich olive oil tradition.
8. Hvar – The Lavender Island
Experience the vibrant nightlife and elegant atmosphere of Hvar Town.
Visit Stari Grad, one of Europe’s oldest towns.
Hike up to Fortica Fortress for panoramic views.
9. Vis – Hidden Gems and Untouched Beauty
Swim in the ethereal Blue Cave (Modra Špilja).
Taste delicious local seafood and explore Vis’ fascinating military history.
10. Korčula – The Birthplace of Marco Polo
Stroll through the medieval streets of Korčula Town, often called “Little Dubrovnik.”
Discover the island’s rich wine culture with tastings of Grk and Pošip wines.
11. Mljet – A Paradise of Nature
Visit Mljet National Park, home to the saltwater lakes Veliko Jezero and Malo Jezero.
Take a peaceful boat ride to St. Mary’s Island and its Benedictine monastery.
12. Dubrovnik – The Pearl of the Adriatic
Walk the iconic city walls with breathtaking views of the old town and the sea.
Visit landmarks like the Rector’s Palace and Stradun street.
End your journey with a sunset over the Lovrijenac Fortress.
The picturesque contrast of Croatia, the green plains of the continent and the blue Adriatic.
Arrival in Budapest during the day - independently - entering the hotel from 15:00 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). 15:00-16:00 Welcome drinks and orientation 16:00-19:00 Pest Walking tour 19:30-21:00 Dinner in the local restaurant
Breakfast 10:00-12:00 Castle Hill walking tour 12:00-20:00 Free time 20:00 River Cruise on river Danube We will visit the Buda side of the Danube today with a trek up Castle Hill for a panoramic view of the city and countryside. Your walking tour wanders by the Royal Palace into the grand Matthias Church. You’ll have the afternoon free to enjoy more of Budapest. Your guide will be available to assist those interested in taking a relaxing plunge in a traditional public bath (swimming suit required). Then, let’s cap off the evening with a panoramic cruise on the Danube River. Walking: strenuous. (B) 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. Lunch break (individual) Transfer: Budapest – Osijek 3 h., 166 mi. 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 hotel in Budapest
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: 5 hours. (B,D) Lunch stop at the highway restaurant in Hungary. All pax will choose and pay on their own. Osijek for free time to walk in town, visit the cathedral in 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
Breakfast We will visit Ðakovo stables and have a lunch in Đakovo. Driving direct to the hotel in Zagreb ( capital citz of Croatia ) check-in 1 hour walking orientation, free afternoon and evening. 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. Later, we will arrive in Croatia's capital city, Zagreb. The historic core oozes with grand Hapsburg architecture and history, and you'll experience it all on our local guided walking tour. Sleep 1 night in
Breakfast in a Local Ethno House (7:30–8:30 AM):
Guided Birdwatching or Nature Walk (9:00–11:00 AM):
Traditional Boat Ride on the Sava River (11:15–12:15 PM):
Visit a Local Family Farm (12:30–2:00 PM):
By 3:30 PM, Departure for Zagreb
1 hour Walking orientation
Free afternoon and evening in Zagreb
Breakfast at Zagreb hotel 11:00-15:00 Plitice lakes - tour park lakes 15:00 Restaurant meal Free afternoon Overnight near Plitvice Lakes Plitvice Lakes National Park is Croatia's largest, oldest, and most visited national park. Its rich flora and fauna and sixteen cascading turquoise lakes are indescribable. The beauty of this national park is truly unique. You've got to see it to believe it! Later, enjoy dinner at Restaurant Lička kuća, which serves traditional fine dining from the region. Sleep 1 night near Plitvice Lakes. Driving: 2.5 hours. (B,D)
Breakfast
Sinj Museum
Free time in Sinj for sightseeing and lunch on own
15:00 depart Sinj and direct to Split harbor check-in at ship.
Free afternoon in Split
Dinner onboard
After breakfast, we will head to Sinj. Sinj is a charming town nestled in the heart of Croatia's Dalmatian hinterland. Its inhabitants have been telling how Our Lady of Sinj saved the village from the Ottoman army in 1715 for generations. The local church houses "Our Lady of Sinj," an ornately decorated painting. The town is also famous for the Sinjska Alka, a knight's tournament in honor of the 1715 event.
After lunch, we will continue to Split, the largest city and port in central Dalmatia, the second-largest city in Croatia with a population of about 190,000. Saying goodbye to our driver and guide, you'll have some free time to walk the town and get lunch. Then, let's board our ship for a seven-night cruise along coastal Croatia. Driving: 2 hours.
Ship will be docked in Split harbor and embarkation is possible throughout the whole day. Passengers arriving in the morning ( who dont travel from Budapest, who coming direct to Split ) will not be able to enter their cabins before 14:00 but can leave luggage on board. In case that your ship is not in the port until evening we will take care of your luggage and organize excursion for you.
At 19:00 we’ll have a welcome meeting where Cruise manager will introduce you to the crew and your fellow passengers. Welcome dinner will be served at 19:30. Captain will wait for all the passengers arriving late at night but we have to be notified in advance.
All the late arriving guests will be provided with a dinner. Overnight in Split, (D)
Our English speaking guide will do a morning Split City tour, walking us through the world famous Diocletian’s Palace. Split is the second largest urban centre in Croatia and the seat of the Split- Dalmatia County. Over 1700 years old, Split abounds with cultural and historical sights, lots of them situated within the Split’s historical nucleus which has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list ever since 1979. At 12:00 we’ll sail out for Trogir, another city inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Lunch will be served on board and we’ll have a swim stop en route, arriving to Trogir in the afternoon. This town - museum is literally packed with palaces, churches, monasteries and towers, the main attraction being the Cathedral of St. Lawrence, probably the finest example of sacral architecture in Croatia. A professional English speaking guide will take us for a Trogir city tour. Afterwards, you’ll have the evening on your own, free to explore or have a dinner in one of Trogir’s cosy taverns. Overnight in Trogir Historical Town, (B,L)
In the morning we'll sail for Bol, a place best known for its beach of Zlatni Rat (Golden Cape),
which regularly hits the top lists of the most beautiful European beaches. Once we stop in Bol,
you can enjoy indulge in simple pleasures such as taking a walk around this nice little Dalmatian
town until lunch is served on board. After lunch we shall continue cruising to Vis. Being an
important strategic military stronghold for a long time, Vis was spared the excessive tourist
development and thus retained its unspoilt beaches, ecological agriculture and traditional
architecture. Enjoy afternoon, exploring the town of Vis, its picturesque stone streets, pristine
beaches and fine taverns. For all who are interested we will organize optional Vis Island excursion, ending in Komiža,
stunning fishermen's village to have dinner in one of cosy restaurants.
Reservations and payment on the spot.
Overnight in Vis Town, (B,L)
We'll cruise to the Island of Biševo and its Blue Cave, one of the most famous natural attractions
in the whole of the Adriatic Sea. Blue Cave is a water-logged cave that can be approached only by boat.
However, at times, high waves prevent the entrance to Blue Cave, which we
shall not know before the morning designated for our visit. In case we can't enter Blue Cave due to
such sea conditions, you will get a full ticket refund. After a swim stop and lunch on board,
we’ll continue cruising along many coves and bays towards Hvar, the sunniest Croatian island.
Hvar is one of the country’s most attractive tourist destinations and a meeting point of
international jet setters. Upon our arrival in Hvar, a local English-speaking guide will walk you
through this unique city, introducing you to its millennia-long history, culture, and way of life.
Afterward, you'll have an evening on your own to explore and dine in one of numerous family
owned restaurants and taverns.Overnight in Hvar Historical Town, (B,L)
We’ll start our day with morning departure towards the Island of Korčula. Before lunch on
board, we shall stop for a swim in one of pristine bays en route. Our arrival to the Island of Korčula
is scheduled for the afternoon. Town of Korčula is the island’s main settlement and is known as the
birthplace of Marco Polo, one of the world’s most famous explorers of all times.
Our English speaking guide will take you for a tour of Korčula Town, through its narrow and cobbled
streets and its rich history. You’ll have rest of the evening free to enjoy dining at one of the local
restaurants of your choice.
Overnight in Korčula Historical Town, (B,L)
Sailing out from Korčula in the morning, we’ll cruise towards Mljet National Park. You’ll have
just enough time to explore the park, walk around the Great and Small Lakes and visit the Islet of St. Mary
with its Benedictine Monastery from the 12th century or take a swim in the heart of Mljet
National Park. Entrance fees to National Park Mljet are included. Take care to return to the boat for
lunch. In the afternoon, we’ll continue our cruise to Slano, located on the mainland.
Slano is one of the most picturesque places on the Dubrovnik Riviera, with a beautiful beach,
dense pine forest, and olive groves, a long cultural tradition, and numerous historical monuments.
In the evening, we will have Captain’s Dinner on board, along with live music and entertainment.
Overnight in Slano,
(B,L, Captain’s Dinner with live music)
Morning departure to Dubrovnik, passing by Elaphiti islands with lunch on board and cruise
directly to the historical centre of Dubrovnik, the famous city enlisted as UNESCO’s World Heritage
site. We will cruise along Dubrovnik City walls and fortifications where you will have chance to
take unforgettable group photo of breathtaking Dubrovnik. We will disembark group directly in
the Old Town where our own English speaking guide will show us the most interesting sights of
Dubrovnik.
After city tour you will be left on your own to explore the city, visit City Walls or take the cable
car to the top of the Mount Srđ and have intimate farewell dinner. Return scheduled transfer by
coaches to Gruž harbor will be organize. You will see why this city is called the Pearl of the Adriatic.
Overnight in Dubrovnik, (B,L)
Dubrovnik’s Old Town is the reason why the famous English poet Lord Byron gave this city the nickname “Pearl of the Adriatic”. The old town was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1979 and since then it has attracted more than a million visitors every year. The historic city center is actually a fortress thanks to the 2 km long city walls, which served as protection against invaders in the past. The main street in the old town is called Stradun and it is a popular meeting place for locals and tourists. At the end of Stradun you can see the beautiful Gothic-Renaissance Sponza Palace and the Rector’s Palace, featured in the world-famous TV series Game of Thrones.
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.