Current as of: October 10, 2024 - 13:28
Dubrovnik & the Dalmatian Coast Trip Notes
- Ways to Travel: Guided Group
- Destination: Croatia
- Programmes: Culture
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Activity Level:
2 out of 7 - Easy & Moderate
- 8 Days: Land Only
- Ages: 16+
- Trip Code: ADD
- Carbon Footprint: 12kg CO2e
Trip Overview
Discover Adriatic islands and the historic cities of Split, Trogir and Dubrovnik
With impressive architecture and some of the best scenery in Europe, the Dalmatian Coast is a destination to rival any. So spend a relaxed week taking in the best of this striking coastal region. We start by exploring the Unesco-listed cities of Split and nearby Trogir, before sampling island life on beautiful Korcula. We complete our trip with three nights in Dubrovnik, possibly the best preserved Renaissance town in the world, with a jumble of narrow streets and red-tiled roofs tucked tightly within the city walls.
At a Glance
- Accommodation: 7 Classic nights (hotels)
- Travel by private bus, catamaran, local ferry and public bus
- Option to travel by train to your adventure
Highlights
- Visit the Unesco-listed cities of Split, Trogir and Dubrovnik
- Enjoy a catamaran ride to Mljet National Park
- Sample wines produced on the island of Korcula and the Peljesac Peninsula
Is This Trip for You?
This trip is graded Activity Level 2 (Easy & Moderate). For more information on our trip gradings please visit our Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
This is a relaxed itinerary focusing on sightseeing and exploring. There is a fair amount of walking around towns and cities, plus a couple of gentle, picturesque walks around two of the islands (some paths are rocky, so pack good shoes). The walks are suitable for anyone with reasonable fitness.
Group
This is a guided small-group holiday. The group is usually between four and 20 people, with an average of 12 like-minded clients booking individually, in a couple or as friends together.
Adult min age: 16
Min group size: 4
Max group size: 18
Itinerary
Land Only
- Start City: Trogir
- End City: Dubrovnik
Land Only Itinerary
Fly to Split; transfer to Trogir, overnight in the centre of the old walled town
Fly to Split. On arrival, we take a short transfer to the Unesco-listed town of Trogir. We stay in the old walled part of this charming town.
Accommodation: Hotel Tragos (or similar)
Start Split Airport
The adventure starts our hotel in the Unesco-listed town of Trogir, a 10-minute drive from Split Airport. We’ll be staying in the atmospheric old walled part of town.
Accommodation: Hotel Tragos (or similar)
Explore Trogir; transfer to Split, free time in Split before a ferry ride to Korcula
We look around Trogir in the early morning before a short transfer to Split, another Unesco-listed city. There will be free time in the beautiful old centre before we catch a catamaran in the late afternoon to Korcula island (approximately 2hr to 2hr 30min).
The medieval walled town here, reputedly the birthplace of Marco Polo, is often described as a mini-Dubrovnik. Like the larger city, it is a warren of small lanes and alleys: a great place to explore and a photographer’s paradise. After, we take a short transfer to the village of Lumbarda, where our hotel is situated.
Accommodation: Hotel Borik (or similar)
Circular walk around Lumbarda village and wine tasting
It’s time to stretch our legs and roam the surrounding area of Lumbarda. We walk through vineyards and olive groves and admire beautiful beaches, where we can stop for a drink or a quick swim. We also visit the renowned Grk winery to sample local wines. In the evening, we transfer to Korcula town for dinner.
Accommodation: Hotel Borik (or similar)
Travel by boat to Mljet Island; walk to the peak of Montokuc for panoramic views
After breakfast, we transfer to Korcula in time for the catamaran to Mljet Island, whose national park status has ensured limited development. The island is a tranquil place to walk, cloaked in forest, and dotted with tiny hamlets. Our goal today is the peak of Montokuc (840ft/256m), which offers panoramic views of the beautiful Dalmatian Coast, and to enjoy a picnic lunch on the island, before returning to our Korcula hotel. The path on the way up to Montokuc is rocky, good walking shoes are required to walk this route. Those who do not wish to walk up Montokuc can take a flat circular walk around the lake, have a swim and enjoy a drink overlooking the water.
If the catamaran cannot operate due to bad weather, there are alternative excursions, or we will stay on Korcula island and visit Vela Spilja, one of the most important prehistoric archaeological sites in Europe.
Accommodation: Hotel Borik (or similar)
Ferry to mainland; visit Ston en route to Dubrovnik
After breakfast, we transfer to the port and take a 15-minute ferry ride to the Peninsula Peljesac. Upon arrival, we drive along a scenic mountain road with views of the coast and vineyards. We stop at a farm and enjoy a local olive and produce tasting just next to the old town of Ston.
In Ston, we recommend walking up the magnificent old walls that overlook the town – the view from the top is fantastic. The town is also a seafood hotspot, the mussels and oysters here are among the best in the country. After, we transfer about 37mi (60km) to Dubrovnik where we have the rest of the day to relax. In the evening, we can go into the old town for dinner and a wander.
Accommodation: Hotel Splendid (or similar)
Dubrovnik city tour
We enjoy a full day in the remarkable old city of Dubrovnik, which includes visits to the Rector’s Palace and the Franciscan Monastery. Dubrovnik exudes old-world charm with a location right on the Adriatic, fine religious buildings surrounded by heavily fortified walls, and a jumble of red-tiled roofs.
The cobblestone streets of the old town, or Stari Grad, feature fountains, churches, palaces and museums – all built from the same light-coloured stone. There are no motor vehicles in the city but the streets come alive at night as locals and visitors stroll along Stradun, the main street.
Following the walking tour, you have time to walk along the city walls: this is optional and costs approximately €35 for entrance (or is included in the Dubrovnik Card).
Accommodation: Hotel Splendid (or similar)
Free day to relax in Dubrovnik, or take an optional trip to Lokrum and explore the surrounding area
We have a free day today. Relax in the many eateries or chill on the beach. Alternatively, enjoy an optional visit to Lokrum Island; a 20-minute boat ride will take you from the Old Town port to this beautiful green island, home to a botanic garden full of exotic plants. Bring your swimming costume and a good book – after your stroll, you will definitely want to enjoy a swim in the Adriatic.
Accommodation: Hotel Splendid (or similar)
Transfer to Dubrovnik airport; fly to London
We take a bus transfer to Dubrovnik airport for our return flight to London.
End Dubrovnik
The trip ends in Dubrovnik after breakfast. If you’d like a little more time to explore this fascinating city, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.
Accommodation
Well-located hotels in Trogir, Korcula and Dubrovnik
On this cultural trip in Croatia, we normally stay in two- and three-star hotels. Our accommodations are well-located for our adventures and close to a variety of restaurants, allowing you to indulge in the local cuisine. Below are the hotels we typically use.
Trogir: Hotel Tragos (night 1)
Our first hotel has a prime location, right in the Unesco-protected old town of Trogir. By staying here, we’re within five minutes’ walk of local attractions including Kamerlengo Castle and Saint Lawrence’s Cathedral.
Korcula: Hotel Borik (nights 2-4)
For our three nights in Korcula, we stay in a family-run hotel in the quaint fishing village of Lumbarda. Be sure to pack your swimming costume, as there is a pool you can enjoy at the end of the day. It’s open seasonally, which may mean it’s closed for early and late season departures; thankfully, there’s a pebble beach 655ft (200m) from the hotel if you’re keen to swim.
Dubrovnik: Hotel Splendid (nights 5-7)
Our final nights of the trip are spent at the aptly named Hotel Splendid. The highlight may well be the hotel beach, where you can enjoy a refresher at the beach bar with views of Uvala Bay and, with good timing and a bit of luck, a beautiful sunset. There’s also a beachside restaurant serving traditional Dalmatian dishes.
Worth knowing
- Additional accommodation can be booked, subject to availability, at our hotels in Trogir or Dubrovnik, either before or after the trip. Prices are available from your sales representative.
- Some hotels we use don’t have lifts.
- On rare occasions in Trogir, we may need to split the group between several small hotels. All hotels are of equal quality and are situated within 165ft (50m) of each other.
Single supplement from £ 245
Food & Drink
All breakfasts and one picnic lunch are included.
For breakfast, expect a continental-style buffet with cold meat, cheeses, bread, eggs, jams, and pastries, plus tea and coffee.
The Dalmatian Coast is dotted with mussel farms and fishing boats, and the seafood along the coast and on the islands is amazing. You will also find grilled lamb, pizza, pasta and salads, and influences from central Europe, Italy, and the Balkans.
Transport
Travel will be by private bus and scheduled catamaran/ferry services. The drive to Dubrovnik will take approximately two hours. The catamaran/ferry journeys vary in duration from around 20 minutes to approximately 2hr 30min. In Dubrovnik, we use the public bus.
Weather & Seasonality
Croatia has one of the sunniest climates in Europe. We generally travel off-season, so you should expect some variation in temperature and possibly some rainfall. Temperatures can be high, particularly on the July and August departures.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today. There will be a welcome briefing in the evening, but if you miss it the leader will update you separately
Airport: Split Airport (SPU)
Getting to the start hotel
Your options for this journey are:
Take an Exodus transfer
Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer.
Make your own way
You can reach the start hotel relatively easily by taxi or public transport. You can catch the number 37 bus, which runs every 20 minutes from outside Split Airport. Please prepare cash for the bus ticket, which you can buy on the bus and costs approximately €1.70. On arrival, please make the reception staff aware that you are part of the Exodus group and they will give you any necessary details on meeting with your group.
If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group departure transfer to Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Trogir
Location end: Dubrovnik
What To Take
Essential Equipment
- Small day bag for water, camera and snacks
- Guidebook for walking or sightseeing
- Water bottle
- Sun hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
- Comfortable pair of walking shoes – although the paths are not difficult some sections are rocky
- Towel and swimming costume
- Warm jacket or fleece for cool evenings
- Some waterproofs and warm clothes
Optional Equipment
- Walking poles
Practical Information
Visa
Croatia
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Croatia. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/croatia
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/croatia
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/croatia/entry-requirements
• USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Croatia.html
Vaccinations and Health
Croatia
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, tetanus, rabies and tick-borne encephalitis. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
Local Time
Croatia's time zone: Europe/Zagreb (UTC +02:00)
Electricity
Croatia's electricity: Plug types C (two round pins, European standard) and F (two round pins) – 230V, 50Hz
Money
Croatia's currency: Euros (EUR)
ATM Availability
ATMs and banks are available throughout the trip. You can use credit cards in most shops and restaurants in Croatia. However, we recommend taking some cash with you for smaller purchases, such as drinks, snacks and souvenirs.
Extra Expenses & Spending Money
Allow €45 per day for simple lunches and dinners, consisting of a soup, main course and salad. It is possible to spend a lot more, depending on what you choose to eat.
The bus into Dubrovnik town centre is not included. Please allow €8 (€2 per journey). The Dubrovnik Card is a cost-effective way to explore the city and if you purchase one of these you can travel on the buses for free. The card also gives you discounts at some attractions and restaurants. Visit www.dubrovnikcard.com for more details. Your leader can assist you in getting one of these.
Optional excursions
On Day 5, there is the opportunity to walk around the Ston Walls for approximately €10 and the saltworks for approximately €4.
On Day 7, there is the opportunity to visit Lokrum Island, a return boat ticket is approximately €27. Alternatively, the Dubrovnik Cable Car is approximately €15 one-way or €27 round-trip.
Tipping
Our local staff are paid well and fairly for their work. Tipping is at your discretion, but many clients wish to tip their leaders and driver at the end of the trip. We suggest €20-€25 per client for the guide and €7-€13 for the driver. Most groups prefer to present the money to the leader at the end of the week with two separate envelopes (one for the leader and one for the driver). This is completely at your own discretion and to be used as a guideline only. We also work with two local city guides and a mountain guide on this tour.
People, Places & Planet
At Exodus, we believe in the power of Responsible Travel.
Every time we travel, we are part of a global movement that creates jobs, builds more sustainable societies, encourages cultural understanding, and safeguards common natural and cultural heritage. To learn more about what Responsible Travel means to Exodus click here…
Important Information
Water safety
This trip includes time by a lake, river or sea, where there may be opportunities to swim. You should always seek local advice before deciding whether to swim. Open-water or wild swim spots should be treated with extreme caution. Information on how to keep yourself safe while swimming is shown here.
Important Information
Your safe participation
When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call the Exodus office and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.
Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity.
By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred.
How to Book
- Check availability: Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.
- Secure your place: You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days.
- Complete your booking and payment
When you’re ready to book, go to our website for online bookings, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.
After booking
You will receive your booking confirmation letter and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements.
Full joining instructions, including local emergency numbers and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately two to three weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.
Trip Note validity
These Trip Notes are valid from the “Current as” date on page one. They will occasionally be updated after booking and before departure; if there are any updates that significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary, customers will be written to separately. They will also receive a link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes with their Final Joining Instructions before travelling.
The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons – climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
Licensing
Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582, issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA – The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all money paid to us for your trip is fully protected.