Croatia’s cool and buzzing city of Split is a unique delight. With a lively energy and a wealth of ancient and modern treasures heaped between the low-slung mountains and the jeweled blue sea, Split will split your heart right open. Charter guests should be sure to visit the UNESCO heritage wonder of Diocletian’s Palace which has been wooing visitors for over 1700 years. With its roman square, fun bazaar, and romantic passageways scattered with intimate eateries and wine bars, this is Croatia at its atmospheric best. While the old town and surrounding city are studded with temples, churches, and ruins, Split also offers sublime access to its turquoise beaches, especially at Bacvice and the peaceful cove of Kasjuni.
Sibenik is the gateway to the Kornati Islands and is laden with sights. Not only does Sibenik boast 2 UNESCO World Heritage sites, but it's also where the Krka River flows into the Adriatic and is a favored filming spot for Game of Thrones. Stone walls, The Gothic and Renaissance-styled St James Cathedral, and the St Nicholas Fortress all add to the atmosphere. Wander the old town with its boutique shops and golden stone architecture, explore the medieval Meditteranean gardens, eat gelato as you walk along the promenade, indulge in Game of Thrones tours if you are a fan, and make the most of its blissful beaches.
Sun-soaked Hvar gleams like gold. As one of the brightest spots in Europe, this Croatian town is known for being a high-class beach destination. Those famous topaz skies shine above the sapphire sea, and the landscape boasts an idyllic mix of lavender and olive groves, rolling hills, red-roof towns, and sweet and shady pine forests. As one of the most enticing trading hubs - everyone from the Venetians to the Romans and the Greeks has left their mark on Hvar. Visit the Franciscan Monastery and see the famed Last Supper painting, sail the beautiful beaches of the Pakleni Islands, explore abandoned villages and walk the fortress walls, and be sure to sample some of the best Croatian wines available in the surrounding wineries.
The lesser-known but highly treasured island of Croatia should top any charter itinerary. This beautiful island is all lush forests of fragrant Aleppo pine, Cyprus, and ancient Oak, narrow cobbled streets, and vibrant summer festivals. The fortified medieval town is a must and is the rumored birthplace of Marco Polo. Outside the town's 13th-century walls, you will find a wine lovers' oasis with sprawling vineyards, open cellar doors, and glorious cycling routes. Korcula is no stranger to the best beaches, with Pržina, Bilin Žal, and Proizd, some of the best in the area to explore by boat. Sword dances, honey tasting, and the small-town wineries welcome you to taste authentic Croatia.
Mljet comes cloaked in forest and is also home to two interconnecting salt lakes. Located in the Mljet National Park, these lakes are fascinating for any history lover as they date back over ten thousand years and were once freshwater lakes until the Christian era. The melody of the deep green forest meets vibrant blue waters, creating a natural paradise for rest and play. On the tiny islet of Veliko Jazero, you'll find the 12th-century Benedictine Monastery of St. Mary. Charter guests can dive, cycle, swim in clear waters against fragrant pine backdrops, and visit the cave of Odysseus, said to be the spot that kept him hostage for seven years after a storm ruined his boat.
A captivating cluster of evergreen islands, the Elafiti archipelago is quintessential Adriatic beauty. Nestled along the coastline just northwest of Dubrovnik, there are no less than six islands to explore, but only the three largest, Kolocep, Lopud and Sipan are inhabited. Dotted with fragrant citrus groves and centuries-old pine forests, each island is encircled by pale pebbled beaches and crystalline coves. Favoured by Dubrovnik aristocracy in years gone by, the islands are adorned with impressive stone houses, exotic gardens, and charming harbour towns. With fine fortresses and ruins of Roman villas, there’s plenty of history to be enjoyed and endless sheltered, turquoise bays flanked by rolling hills of verdant green. With a certain tropical allure to be found in the palm-lined ports, blended with far-flung abandon and sweet serenity, this assemblage of islets has it all.
Delightful Dubrovnik with its golden city walls and pearl of the Adriatic status looks every inch at the fantasy series setting it is famous for. Dating back to the 7th century, exploring Croatia’s capital is all baroque beauty, UNESCO delights, and limestone pavement strolls that will deliver something extraordinary with every corner turn. Walking the city walls is a must to get a feel for the place and to soak up those blue and balmy sea views. Sip a coffee on the pedestrian street of Stradun, see 16th-century paintings from Raphael in the Cathedral, and visit ancient forts and towers. Of course, for fans of the HBO hit series, a Game of Thrones themed tour is a must.