Croatian Summer Vacation: A Memorable Adriatic Getaway
Dubrovnik, Croatia
This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to explore two of Croatia’s most iconic cities—Dubrovnik and Split—located along the breathtaking Dalmatian Coast. Both cities are rich in history, surrounded by crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, and offer a perfect blend of cultural heritage, historical landmarks, stunning beaches, and fantastic local cuisine. From the charming streets of Old Town Dubrovnik to the coastal charm of Split, each day was filled with unforgettable experiences and scenic beauty.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Arriving in Dubrovnik
We arrived in Dubrovnik on Friday, June 14th, 2024, after a smooth flight and a short 30-minute drive from the airport. Our base for the week was the beautiful Royal Neptun Hotel, located by the water with panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea. The hotel was the perfect place to relax, with access to both the stunning coastline and the historical attractions of Old Town Dubrovnik, just a short drive away.
After settling in, we enjoyed a peaceful walk along the scenic coastal path adjacent to the hotel. The Elaphiti Islands could be seen in the distance, and we marveled at the beauty of the water, which glistened under the late afternoon sun. A stop for gelato added a sweet touch, and we capped off the evening with a wonderful seafood dinner at Levanat Restaurant & Gin Bar, enjoying the sunset over the Adriatic. The food, paired with a refreshing local wine, made it a perfect introduction to Croatian flavors.
Old Town Dubrovnik
Exploring Old Town Dubrovnik
Our first full day in Croatia, we ventured into Old Town Dubrovnik for a private tour of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Dubrovnik’s city walls, dating back to the 13th century, are one of the most impressive defensive structures in Europe. We walked along the walls, taking in the breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea, the sandy beaches below, and the cobblestone streets that wind through the Old Town. It was awe-inspiring to think about the rich history of Dubrovnik, a city that has withstood countless invasions and wars over the centuries.
As a Game of Thrones fan, I was thrilled to see the filming locations for King’s Landing, such as Fort Lovrijenac, a stunning fortress perched above the city. Our local guide also pointed out other filming sites and shared fascinating tidbits about Dubrovnik’s role in the series. Besides Game of Thrones, we visited the Rector’s Palace, a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture, and the Franciscan Monastery, home to one of Europe’s oldest pharmacies.
After the walking tour, we had free time to explore on our own. I wandered through the narrow streets of the Old Town, marveling at the small shops selling local crafts, olive oil, and Dalmatian wines. Dubrovnik is one of those great places where every corner offers something new to discover.
Adriatic Sea - Dubrovnik
A Day on the Adriatic Sea
One of the most fun days was when we set off for a boat trip along the coastline, exploring the beauty of the Adriatic Sea from a different perspective. We boarded a private boat and cruised through the waters, passing the charming Lokrum Island, a lush, green oasis just a short distance from the city. We also visited the nearby Pelješac Peninsula, known for its rich history and vineyards. After a peaceful swim in the crystal-clear waters of a secluded cove, we made our way back, enjoying the beauty of the coastline and surrounding islands.
In the evening, we had dinner at Pizzeria Mama Mia, enjoying delicious pizza in a cozy, seaside setting. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day on the water, with the cool evening breeze and the sound of the waves crashing in the background.
Cavtat, Croatia
Day Trip to Cavtat and the Konavle Region
On our Day 3, we embarked on one of the best day trips from Dubrovnik, heading south to the town of Cavtat. This charming small town is known for its peaceful harbor, quiet streets, and beautiful views of the Adriatic Sea. We explored the picturesque town, then enjoyed a leisurely walk through the botanical gardens of Trsteno Arboretum, which dates back to the 15th century. The gardens, overlooking the sea, were incredibly serene and offered stunning views of the surrounding area.
Afterward, we took a short drive to Konavle, a region famed for its beautiful landscapes and traditional way of life. We had lunch at Konavoski Dvori, a lovely restaurant nestled in the heart of the countryside, where we savored local specialties like roasted lamb and fresh vegetables, all prepared with local olive oil. The food was simple yet incredibly flavorful, highlighting the region’s commitment to organic, locally sourced ingredients.
In the late afternoon, we returned to our hotel, where we enjoyed some time at the spa to relax and rejuvenate.
Bacina Lakes, Croatia
Traveling to Split via Bacina Lakes
We finally departed for Split, located along the Dalmatian Coast. Along the way, we made a stop at Bacina Lakes, a series of freshwater lakes near the Neretva River. The tranquil lakes are surrounded by lush greenery, making it a great option for nature lovers. We took a short boat ride to explore the area and enjoy the stunning views. The peacefulness of the lakes provided a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of the cities.
As we continued on our scenic drive through the Pelješac Peninsula, we passed vineyards and olive groves, getting a true sense of Croatia’s rural beauty. After arriving in Split in the early evening, we dined at Toc Bistro, a wonderful restaurant where we enjoyed some of the finest Croatian wines and local dishes.
Split, Croatia
Discovering Split and Trogir
The first full day in Split was dedicated to exploring the city and the nearby town of Trogir, another UNESCO World Heritage site. In Split, we visited Diocletian’s Palace, one of the most impressive Roman-era sites in Europe. The palace, which forms the heart of the Old Town, is a historical site where the Emperor Diocletian once resided. We took a private tour to learn about the rich history of Split, wandering through the narrow streets and courtyards within the palace’s walls.
Next, we headed to Trogir, a small town just a short distance from Split, known for its medieval architecture and charming waterfront. Trogir is one of the best places to experience Croatia’s rich cultural heritage. We explored the old town, visiting sites like the old bridge and St. Lawrence Cathedral, before enjoying a leisurely lunch by the water. In the afternoon, we drove to the Kastel Sikuli Winery for a wine tasting experience. We sampled some of the finest wines of the region, including a refreshing white wine and a robust Zinfandel, accompanied by a platter of local cheeses and prosciutto.
Split, Croatia
Relaxation and Leisure in Split
Our final day, was a day of relaxation. After a week of exploring historical sites and indulging in local cuisine, we spent the morning lounging by the hotel’s pool, soaking up the sun. We also wandered through Split’s Old Town, revisiting some of our favorite spots. It was a perfect way to unwind before heading home.
Split, Croatia
Tips for Travelers to Dubrovnik and Split
Accommodations: Stay in luxury hotels that offer easy access to major attractions like the city walls of Dubrovnik and the historical sites in Split. Hotels by the water, with views of the Adriatic Sea, are a great choice for relaxation.
Dining: Don’t miss out on the local cuisine, especially the fresh seafood and dishes prepared with local olive oil. Restaurants like Levanat and Restaurant More in Dubrovnik, and Toc Bistro in Split, offer exceptional meals.
Best Day Trips: Consider day trips to Trogir, Cavtat, or even a Montenegro day trip to explore the nearby country of Bosnia & Herzegovina. Kotor in Montenegro, with its stunning Bay of Kotor, is one of the most popular day tours from Dubrovnik.
Activities: Book private trips or small group tours to get personalized experiences. Boat trips to the Elaphiti Islands, Korcula Island, and other nearby islands are a fantastic way to explore Croatia’s stunning coastline.
Best Time to Visit: The summer months (June to September) offer the best weather for exploring and enjoying the stunning beaches and boat trips. However, if you want to avoid the crowds, visiting in the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) is also a great way to experience the area.
Dubrovnik, Croatia