Let me tell you about a place whose magnificence radiates since ancient times. Croatia is at the crossroads of Central and Southeast Europe on the Adriatic Sea.
Dubrovnik, the Pearl of the Adriatic
Begin your journey at one of the most popular destinations in this part of Europe. A “must-see” city of the Adriatic coast. A gem on its own – Dubrovnik.
Encircling the old city are 1.2 mile long walls protected by UNESCO. If you are fond of walking cobbled streets with quaint cafes and exploring farmers’ markets, you are in for a treat!
Walk the same alleys of centuries ago, a sea of terracotta roofs and the glinting of Adriatic on the other side.
Do a wine tasting at Dubrovnik’s finest wine bars. An indigenous grape variety Plavac Mali is best in the Dalmatian region and a close relative to Zinfandel.
Sample the local seafood or splurge at a Michelin-starred restaurant 360 Dubrovnik, built into Saint John Fortress’s walls.
Game of Thrones enthusiasts can visit settings featured in the series, including Dubrovnik’s Bokar Fortress (King’s Landing), nearby Trsteno Arboretum (the Red Keep’s gardens), and Split’s Diocletian’s Palace (site of many of Daenerys’ scenes).
Where to Stay in Dubrovnik
Stay in a Virtuoso hotel Villa Dubrovnik. The hotel is perfectly set on a cliff of Saint Jacob’s district with a stunning view of the Adriatic and the historical city. Virtuoso travelers receive an upgrade on arrival subject to availability. They also receive a daily a la carte breakfast for all guests, served in Michelin recommended restaurant Pjerin. Finally, complimentary lunch for two people fit in Al Fresco Bar Giardino, once during stay, excluding alcohol, taxes, and gratuities (value of $100 equivalent).
At sunset, Dubrovnik’s centuries-old buildings evoke a past era – Virtuoso
Explore the Adriatic’s Harbors, first stop-Hvar!
Fun fact: The island of Hvar is one of the world’s sunniest places and Croatia’s hippest island! Hvar is one of the most beautiful islands in Europe according to Conde Nast Traveller magazine in 2019. Conquer the Hvar Town; throughout its tiny alleyways, you’ll find hidden cafés, restaurants, bakeries, and boutiques.
Visit June or July to see the lovely lavender fields in full bloom. Yearly, Velo Grablje holds a lavender festival to celebrate the beginning of harvest.
Island of Wine: No matter when you go experience a wine tasting. With all that sunshine Hvar is the island of wine! The island has a proud history of wine making, dating back to the ancient Greeks when they first planted their vines in 384. BC in Stari Grad plain (Ager), a UNESCO World heritage site. Vineyards are located throughout the island.
The tower of Saint Mark’s Church in the Old Town overlooks Hvar’s harbor – Ivo Biocina.
Next stop, Split and Ston!
Split will impress you with its medieval Venetian-style palaces and churches. The vibe feels unhurried and welcoming.
The Diocletian’s Palace is one of Croatia’s most important historical remains. The palace is the most famous and integral architectural and cultural buildings on the Adriatic coast and has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979. This Roman Emporer’s Palace was built as a combination of a luxury Summer house and Roman military camp. Because the Old Town has been built within the boundary of the original palace it is free to guests with the exception of the basement and the Temple of Jupiter.
Old Town Split and the Diocletian’s Palace
Have a unique musical experience in the heart of Diocletian’s palace, where there was once the ghetto; through narrow medieval streets, there is a beautiful palace built at the time of the Republic of Venice. Enjoy a delicious banquet set up on the terrace while listening to an intimate opera performance by the Surian family.
Skrapa is a long-established konoba (tavern) for classic Dalmatian dishes such as squid-ink risotto for lunch or dinner. Finish it off with a shot of rakija, the local grape brandy, which comes with a bell. The traditional joke: Ring it if the spirit moves you to have another.
Salty Ston
Ston is famous for its long tradition of salt harvesting and is the best souvenir to bring home according to the Croatian Tourist Board.
Sail in a boat, enjoy the untouched natural beauty of the protected ecosystem of Mali Ston bay. Along with the sun and the sea in which many small islets “are bathing.” The entire experience also has an educational character. The oyster experience starts at the seafront in Hodilje. End the tour with a tasty traditional meal, “buzara.”
Split once a strategic seaside port is now home to archeological museums and sites, an art gallery and an oceanographic institute. Ivan Coric
I believe that the anticipation is (almost!) the best part of the vacation—I’ll make sure to craft something extraordinary for your adventure of a lifetime. You’re never alone on an Inspired escape. Feel free to reach out here.