Croatia Tours & Trips 2020

• Admire the World Heritage-listed architecture of Dubrovnik and Montenegro’s Kotor, climbing along their ancient city walls.
• Loose yourself in Tirana, Albania's colourful capital, and partake in the local's favourite pastime: drinking coffee and people-watching.
• Sail across the blue waters of Lake Ohrid – one of Europe's oldest lakes. No wonder North Macedonia and Albania share this beautiful attraction; nobody would want to let it go!
• Explore the endemic flora and fauna on an easy hike of Pelister: North Macedonia’s oldest national park.
• Hike the slopes of Mt Olympus, the ancient seat of the 12 Greek gods. According to mythology Zeus unleashed his thunderbolts from one of Olympus' peaks.

CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS

• INCLUDED 2-DAY/1-NIGHT EXTENSION:
  • Lake Balaton and Varazdin
  • Visit to the Tihany Peninsula
  • One night's accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Balatonfüred
• EXCURSIONS INCLUDED:
  • Kopacki Rit Nature Park and Osijek
  • The medieval city of Ilok
  • The contrasting capitals of Belgrade and Zagreb

Day 1 – Wed – ARRIVAL ZAGREB (D)
• Arrival in Zagreb, the capital of Croatia – transfer to hotel. Day at leisure. Overnight.
Day 2 – Thu – ZAGREB WALKING TOUR (B)
• Morning city tour of Zagreb. Walk through the historic Upper Town, where, among other sites, visit the St. Mark’s Church, the Cathedral, the Government Palace and the Lotrscak tower. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight in Zagreb.
Day 3 – Fri – ZAGREB – PLITVICE LAKES – SPLIT (B)
• Morning departure towards Croatia’s oldest and most beautiful Plitvice Lakes National Park, consisting of 16 lakes, connected with a series of waterfalls. An environment where Karl May movies were made. The guests will walk through the park, enjoy a boat ride on the emerald green Kozjak Lake and ride the street train back to the entrance. Walking shoes are essential for our 3 hour walk in this wonderful environment! Drive to Split for overnight.
Day 4 – Sat – SPLIT – MAKARSKA (B,L)
• Morning guided tour of Split, a monumental city under UNESCO protection with abundance of Roman architecture – of special interest is the Diocletian palace. The tour will end in the harbour in front of the ship for cruise check in. Luggage transfer will be arranged from the hotel. Departure from Split harbour towards Makarska at 13:00h. Cruise along the Dalmatian coast whilst enjoying your lunch. Afternoon swim at one of the wonderful beaches. From there, those feeling adventurous can join our optional river rafting excursion or zipline on the Cetina river and meet up with the ship in Makarska in the evening. Overnight in the port of Makarska where strolling along the streets, you will come across numerous churches and other architectural and cultural sites.
Day 5 – Sun – MAKARSKA – BOL (BRAC) – STARI GRAD
• This morning we continue our cruise towards the next destination – the island of BraC, more precisely to the town of Bol, known for its famous Zlatni Rat beach (Golden horn), a natural phenomenon that dominates the other beaches of Bol with its specific form. After swimming break and lunch we continue our journey towards Stari Grad on the Hvar island, the sunniest Adriatic island. Free afternoon to explore this unique town. The famous Stari Grad Field is the oldest in Croatia and the best preserved example of ancient Greek system of agriculture. Together with the old town it is a part of world heritage protected by UNESCO.
Day 6 – Mon – STARI GRAD – HVAR
• Our next destination is the town of Hvar, a favorite destination for jet setters from all around the world. After lunch we stop for swimming, relaxing and refreshment in clear, crystal blue sea at nearby Pakleni islands. Arrival to Hvar in the afternoon hours followed by sightseeing of this extraordinary town. Hvar offers many cultural and historical sites (Renaissance cathedral, the oldest communal theater in Europe founded in 1612, Franciscan monastery, the Benedictine convent famous for their lace listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, Spanjola fortress towering high above the town …) and many restaurants and bars open late into the night.
Day 7 – Tue – HVAR – VIS
• Early in the morning we cruise towards the little Bisevo island to visit the Blue cave, a magnificent natural phenomenon. As sometimes weather conditions can be very unpredictable, the possibility of our visit will depend on those conditions, however you will be notified of this by the crew. We continue towards the island of Vis, which was a strategic navy harbour due to its unique geographical position and as such closed to the public until recently. Because of its isolation, Vis has a special charm -‘the Mediterranean as it once was’ which makes it really interesting to see. Overnight is in the town of Vis, situated on the northern side of the island, developed near the remains of the ancient Issa, first urban centre in Croatia. If interested, visit the remains of the Roman thermal Place, City museum or simply take a walk enjoying the view of beautiful ”Villae Rusticae” situated along the coast.
Day 8 – Wed – VIS – BOL – MAKARSKA (B, L)
• During breakfast we depart towards Korcula, the birthplace of famous explorer and adventurer Marco Polo. Surrounded by medieval walls, Korcula resembles a miniature Dubrovnik when approaching from the sea. It has more legends, tales and monuments than you will find anywhere else. Today, Korcula is the only place in the world where the Spanish medieval knight’s game – Moreska is still performed. Upon arrival enjoy a guided tour through the streets of the old town built in the shape of a fish bone. Enjoy the numerous konobas /taverns, restaurants, cocktail bars or night-club located within and around the city walls. Overnight in port.
Day 9 – Thu – KORCULA – MLJET – SIPAN or SLANO
• We continue cruising towards one of the greenest Adriatic islands – the island of Mljet, where on the western part, the National Park is situated. Free time to enjoy the beauties of the National Park (two salt lakes connected by a narrow channel to the sea, a boat ride to the St Mary isle in the Great Lake, where the old church and monastery are situated. Cycling around or swimming in the lakes is permitted. We continue our cruise towards Sipan, part of Elaphite islands near Dubrovnik, or towards Slano on the coastline, both are small fishermen’s villages where we will overnight in the port.
Day 10 – Fri – SIPAN or SLANO – DUBROVNIK
• Early in the morning we depart towards our final destination – a true pearl of the Adriatic. After lunch short swim stop. Sightseeing of Dubrovnik followed by an optional cable car ride up to Srd mountain for spectacular views of the old town. We recommend a stroll along the city walls, 1940 meters in length with magnificent views of the old town of Dubrovnik and the surrounding islands. Overnight in the harbour Gruz.
Day 11 – Sat – DUBROVNIK
• After an early breakfast say goodbye to the crew and all your new friends! transfer to airport Dubrovnik.
• Obligatory Supplement: Visitor’s Tax & Port fees are not included (To be paid on the spot) Approx Euro 40.00- per person per week.

• Admire the World Heritage-listed architecture of Dubrovnik and Montenegro’s Kotor, climbing along their ancient city walls
• Lose yourself in Tirana, Albania's colourful capital, and partake in the local's favourite pastime: coffee-drinking and people-watching
• Sail across the blue waters of Lake Ohrid, one of Europe's oldest lakes. No wonder North Macedonia and Albania share this beautiful attraction – nobody would want to let it go
• Sitting alongside its Ottoman past, the North Macedonian capital of Skopje has reinvented its centre with gleaming neo-classical monuments and buildings, adding a new layer to this fascinating city

CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS

• A comprehensive cruise along the Danube, taking in its history, fascinating culture and sublime landscapes
• EXCURSIONS INCLUDED:
  • Bucharest, the surprising Romanian capital
  • Authentic Bulgaria with Veliko Tarnovo and the charming town of Ruse

Day 1 – Wed – ARRIVAL ZAGREB (D)
• Arrival today in Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. Transfer to your hotel. The day is at leisure.
Day 2 – Thu – ZAGREB WALKING TOUR (B)
• This morning take a city tour of Zagreb. Walk through the historicUpper Town, where, among other sites, visit the St. Mark’s Church, the Cathedral, the Government Palace and the LotrSCak tower. The rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight in Zagreb.
Day 3 – Fri – ZAGREB / PLITVICE LAKES – SPLIT (B)
• In the morning depart for the beautiful Plitvice Lakes National Park, consisting of 16 lakes, connected with a series of waterfalls. The National Park was also where Karl May films were made. Take a walk through the park, enjoy a boat ride on the emerald green Kozjak Lake and ride the street train back to the entrance. Walking shoes are essential for our 3 hour walk in this wonderful environment! Later, drive to Split and overnight.
Day 4 – Sat – SPLIT / MAKARSKA (B, L)
• This morning, take a guided tour of Split, a monumental city under UNESCO protection. The city features an abundance of Roman architecture; of special interest is the Diocletian palace. The tour will end in the harbor in front of the ship, where we will check-in for the cruise. Luggage transfer will be arranged from the hotel. The cruise will depart from Split harbor at 13:00h. Cruise along the Dalmatian coast to Makarska whilst enjoying your lunch, and perhaps take an afternoon swim at one of the magnificent beaches. From there, those feeling adventurous can join our optional river rafting or zipline excursion on the Cetina river and meet up with the ship in Makarska in the evening. Overnight in the port of Makarska where strolling along the streets, you will come across numerous churches and other architectural and cultural sites.
Day 5 – Sun – MAKARSKA / MLJET (B, L)
• Depart early this morning towards Mljet, with a stop on the PeljeSac peninsula for a refreshing swim. This afternoon visit the salt lakes in Mljet National Park and enjoy the sun, sea and tranquility of this peaceful island. In the middle of the large lake, inside the National park, we will visit the monastery and church on St. Mary isle. Overnight in port PolaCa/Pomena.
Day 6 – Mon – MLJET / DUBROVNIK (B, L)
• After breakfast depart for Dubrovnik, the highlight of our cruise. Enjoy the amazing sights of nature along the way towards this “heaven on earth” – according to the famous writer George Bernard Shaw. Arrive at Dubrovnik in the afternoon, where we will embark on sightseeing and an optional cable car ride up to Srđ mountain for spectacular views of the old town. Take a walk through STRADUN – both a street and a square, a promenade inside the city walls. We recommend a walk on top of the 1,940 m long city walls! Overnight in the port of this magical town.
Day 7 – Tue – DUBROVNIK / SIPAN/TRSTENIK (B, L, D)
• The morning is at leisure to explore Dubrovnik. Discover the beauty of history through numerous monuments, little streets, churches and more. Around noon we will depart this magnificent town and continue on our cruise towards the Sipan isle or a small town of Trstenik on the PeljeSac peninsula, where we will spend the night. There is a possibility of visiting a local winery and on return, join the Captain’s dinner party on the ship.
Day 8 – Wed – SIPAN/TRSTENIK / KORCULA (B, L)
• After breakfast depart for KorCula, the birthplace of Marco Polo. Lunch will be on board at the Lumbarda bay near KorCula. We will arrive in the afternoon and overnight at the port. On this island you can find more legends, tales and monuments than anywhere else. Listen to the story of the stone walls, which were built over two centuries ago. Take in the sights of KorCula and an optional wine and appetizers tasting at a local winery, before dining in one of the numerous seafront restaurants or “konobas” on your own.
Day 9 – Thu – KORCULA / HVAR (B, L)
• We’ll depart early this morning towards the Pakleni Islands for lunch and a swim stop. After lunch, see the sights of Hvar, the longest island in the Adriatic. The Renaissance cathedral with its original tower as well as the oldest community theatre in Europe was founded here in 1612. Hvar offers abundant entertainment, excellent restaurants and bars and cafes that are open long into the night. Overnight in Hvar.
Day 10 – Fri – HVAR (Bol) / SPLIT (B, L)
• Our next stop is BraC island. Swimming is planned at the most famous beach in Dalmatia – Zlatni Rat (the Golden Horn – its gravel promontory shifts from side to side as the wind and waves constantly change in shape). Bol is a typical fishermen’s village converted into a popular tourist destination. After lunch we head back to Split. A swim break is planned on route in one of the many bays on Brac island. Enjoy the view of the Split Riviera on as you arrive in the late afternoon.
Day 11 – Sat – SPLIT / Depart (B)
• After breakfast it’s time to say goodbye to the crew and all your new friends! Transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

• Choose between two carefully selected activities
• Bratislava: Join your Local Expert for an exploration of the city centre. Enjoy the vistas form the Bratislava Castle then take a walk in the charming Old Town among 19th century palaces and see the Slovak National Theatre, Michael’s Gate and the Old Town Hall. 
• Bratislava: An avid foodie takes you around the market on a Christmas food tour.
• Choose between two carefully selected activities
• Vienna: Listen to the musical masterpiece of Mozart and learn the Viennese Waltz, in an inclusive workshop designed to support the visually impaired community. Unique to Insight Guests, ‘Dancing without Barriers’ takes place in the dark, in a specially designed sensory studio, and will be a unique experience for all your senses. This specifically designed workshop focuses on inclusion and education around the topic of visual impairment. Through their foundation the organisation supports children from disadvantaged family and children with a visual impairment. This experience advances UN Sustainable Development Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities. Alternatively, tour Schönbrunn Palace and marvel at its frescoed ceilings, crystal chandeliers and gilded ornaments.
• Vienna: A private, guided exploration of Schönbrunn Palace will have all your senses tingling. Stand beneath frescoed ceilings, crystal chandeliers and gilded Rococo frames where Mozart performed as a child prodigy.
• : Our Well-Being Directors take a proactive approach to your welfare ensuring all well-being regulations are met (available on tours with 21 or more guests).
• : Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
• : Experience enhanced hygiene protocols to align with the latest guidance following COVID-19.All Travel Directors, Well-Being Directors and Drivers have completed training in enhanced well-being and hygiene protocols.
• : We only work with establishments we are confident will consistently adhere to our high well-being standards, which include hotels, restaurants and sight-seeing venues.
• : Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
• : Embrace the magic of Christmas time in Europe. Select departures will allow you to have time to explore local markets.
• Zagreb: Your Local Expert guides you this two-tiered capital. Explore Donji Grad, the Lower Town, and see the Mimara Art Museum in Roosevelt Square, Ban Josip Jelacic Square and the cathedral.
• Zagreb: Ride the funicular to Gornji Grad, the medieval Upper Town, to view the former Presidential Palace, Stone Gate, St. Mark's Church and the Lotrščak Tower.
• Postojna Cave: Enter by mini-train into these world-famous cave systems, before walking through an illuminated fairyland of stalactites and stalagmites.
• Ljubljana: Explore this elegant capital with your Local Expert, to see the castle City Hall, Cathedral of St Nicholas and Triple Bridge.
• Graz: See the UNESCO World Heritage listed historic city centre on your orientation with your Travel Director. 
• Bratislava: Join your Local Expert for an exploration of the city centre. Enjoy the vistas form the Bratislava Castle then take a walk in the charming Old Town among 19th century palaces and see the Slovak National Theatre, Michael’s Gate and the Old Town Hall. 
• Bratislava: An avid foodie takes you around the market on a Christmas food tour.
• Vienna: A private, guided exploration of Schönbrunn Palace will have all your senses tingling. Stand beneath frescoed ceilings, crystal chandeliers and gilded Rococo frames where Mozart performed as a child prodigy.
• Vienna: Travel along the Ring Road to see the Hofburg Imperial Residence, Opera House, Parliament Building and Karlskirche.
• Zagreb: Join your Travel Director for a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant with the opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers over a pleasant evening with wine.
• Vienna: Toast your travels at your Celebration Dinner of Austrian specialties with wine. 
• Dining Summary: 3 Dinner with Wine (DW), and 7 Breakfast (B)

• In the small town of Janche, meet with local village women for a cooking class focused on making local flaky pastries – considered a specialty of the region.
• Have a hands-on experience when you meet a local beekeeper for a honey tasting – you’ll be definitely getting the buzz in this master class.
• Discover the wine scene in North Macedonia and how, since ancient times, these fertile lands have produced renowned grapes. You’ll sample the finest drops with a celebrated local expert.
• Learn about a world of hams and cheeses in a centuries-old smokehouse, and discover the ancient processes of making olive oil at a local farm outside of Kotor.
• Throughout your culinary escapade, explore the undulating countryside, stunning landscapes and hidden towns of the Balkans – you’ll gain a true sense of this region with your small group.

• Get an opportunity to Visit 9 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• Enjoy the amazing river cruising across Amsterdam
• Explore Budapest enjoy innovative, efficient metro.
• Discover Vienna
• Experience a tour of Bamberg, with its medieval city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Dubrovnik's charms reach far beyond the famed beautiful city walls. Discover the undisputed jewel of the Dalmatian Coast, and perhaps cruise to Lokrum Island where a botanical garden, Benedictine monastery, and excellent swimming spots await.
• Indulge in specialty foods, local wine and some tranquil swimming spots on the island of Korcula – a quiet escape full of vineyards, olive groves and sleepy villages.
• Explore the green island of Mljet – with its small seaside villages and largely untouched environment, and the Renaissance architecture and beautiful beaches of Hvar.
• We’ve partnered with non-profit organisation MEET to bring you an ecotourism experience on the little known Kornati Islands where you’ll hike through stunning scenery and enjoy lunch with a welcoming local family.
• Traverse the fairy tale landscapes of Krka National Park, passing beautiful woodlands and roman ruins as tiered waterfalls tumble overhead.

• A necklace of historic cities
• sprawling vineyards & gor­geous beaches – along a sun-drenched coastline that's best described in jewels... There's a reason why the Adriatic Coast is a must-go travel destination…  Find history chronicled in medieval villages
• Roman ruins and castle keeps and traditions you can taste at vineyards
• markets and bakeries... Dubrovnik
• the pearl of the Adriatic; Split
• nestled against a turquoise sea; Zagreb
• a diamond in the rough; Ljubljana
• a city of ruby red wine; Istria
• bucolic and blessed with garnet soil
• emerald valleys and sapphire seas; and Venice
• gilded with gemstone palaces
• laced with canals and graced with treasures that are nothing less than exquisite... Explore them up close and in depth through cultural experiences equally dazzling.

• Learn about the Danube Delta at an onboard lecture

• Explore three fascinating countries by bike
• Cycle through whitewashed villages and marvel at the sublime sapphire waters of the Adriatic Sea
• Visit the largest island of Dalmatia, with its cypress forests, orange and olive trees, and glowing white pebble beaches
• Filled with fragrant lavender, pines, fruit orchards and a towering limestone ridge, Hvar is truly stunning
• Enjoy a gelato or take a refreshing dip in the sea in sunny Korcula
• Traverse to the top of Srd Hil and appreciate the view of Old Dubrovnik, its harbor and the Adriatic Sea
• Witness Mostar's famous bridge divers hurl themselves from the stones of a bridge that has spanned the river here for centuries

• What better way to see the historic towns, protected forests and stunning islands of Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast than aboard a private yacht? All aboard for a week in paradise
• Explore beautiful Split, where tradition, modernity and a variety of European influences come together. A visit to the Diocletian’s Palace reveals some of the Adriatic Coast’s most important surviving Roman buildings
• Bliss out on Brac’s world famous Zlatni Rat beach, a spit of white sand jutting out into turquoise waters
• Opened to the public only in 1989, the island of Vis boasts coastal scenery and a military history just waiting to be discovered. Also, the local vugava wine is rather nice
• Stari Grad, Hvar’s Old Town, is quite literally one of the oldest towns in Europe, and a charming one at that. It provides a great base from which to explore the island