Wednesday, April 28 – Arrival in Zagreb, Croatia – Tour Begins
Welcome to Croatia! After landing today in Zagreb, make your way to our group hotel where our tour begins. This afternoon, we embark on a biking tour through the city of Zagrab. On our biking tour, you’ll discover many of the major city sights in a fun and entertaining way. Our tour winds its way through the Lower Town and Upper Town of Zagreb while our guide points out the National Theater, Parliament and Government House. We’ll discover the Green Horseshoe and learn why Zagreb has a “big bang” every day at noon. You’ll find out what’s so bloody about Bloody Bridge and who is stoned at the Stone Gate. This evening, we’ll gather together for our Amazing Journeys Welcome & Orientation, followed by a group dinner together. (D)
Thursday, April 29 – Zagreb – Slovenia – Zagreb
This morning we’ll set out for a day of touring in the beautiful country of Slovenia. We’ll leave Zagreb and travel to Ljubljana (2 hour drive), the charming capital of Slovania. With our local guide, explore Ljubljana’s medieval Old Town and the old Roman ruins, admire the river banks and bridges of the Ljubljanica River and ride the funicular up to Ljubljana Castle for great views of the city and the breathtaking Alps. Later, we’ll visit the stunning lake resort town of Bled (50 minute drive), famous for a church on an island in the middle of a lake, a medieval castle perched on a cliff high above the lake, and splendid views of surrounding Alpine peaks. Enjoy lunch at Bled Castle and visit the Museum at Bled Castle. We’ll take a boat ride to Bled Island before heading back to Zagreb (2.5 hour drive). This evening, enjoy time to explore Zagreb and dinner at leisure. (B, L)
Friday, April 30 – Zagreb – Plitvice Lakes – Zadar
This morning we leave Zagreb and travel to Plitvice Lakes (2.5 hour drive). Plitvice Lakes National Park is Croatia’s most popular tourist attraction, and was granted UNESCO World Heritage status in 1979 because of its scenic beauty. Located roughly halfway between capital city Zagreb and Zadar on the coast, the lakes are a definite must-see in Croatia. Today we’ll be hiking through the National Park, taking in the beautiful surroundings and admiring the lakes, waterfalls, nature and wildlife. Our hike will be 3–4 hours and cover 2.5 miles of trail. Our starting point is at the north entrance of the park and our sightseeing includes a walk through the limestone canyon of the Lower Lakes, an electric-boat ride across the largest of the Plitvice lakes – Lake Kozjak – a panoramic train ride, and a walk along the top of the canyon’s east side, all the way back to our starting point. You will also see the impressive Great Waterfall and the Sastavci Waterfalls, the beautiful dark blue lakes of Novakovića Brod, Kaluđerovac, Gavanovac and Milanovac, as well as the vastness of Lake Kozjak. We’ll stop for a picnic lunch along the way. Later, head back from Plitvice Lakes to Zadar (2.5 hour drive). This evening, we join together as a community for Shabbat services before heading out to enjoy the Old Town of Zadar and a group dinner. (B, L, D)
Saturday, May 1 – Zadar
Today we’ll visit the Old Town of Zadar on a two-hour guided walking tour. We’ll enjoy the highlights of this delightful locale and see the Sea Organ, Greeting to the Sun Solar Panel, Church of St. Donat, Roman Forum, The Five Wells and Kalelarga. After, you’ll have free time for lunch on own, shopping and wandering the idyllic streets. Later, return to our deluxe hotel, located on the sea and unwind at the beautiful infinity pool, sports complex or enjoy the spa. The evening is yours to go back into town for dinner or relax at our hotel with its amazing views. (B)
Sunday, May 2 – Zadar – Krka Waterfalls – Split
This morning we visit Krka National Park and Krka Waterfalls (1 hour drive). Krka was proclaimed a National Park in 1985. It is intended primarily for scientific, cultural, educational, recreational, and tourism activities. We’ll enjoy 3.1 miles of hiking for approximately 4 hours, on a guided walk including visits to Skradinski Buk and Lozovac. The walking trails of Krka National Park and the stunning viewpoints are the best way to see the landscape and wealth of flora and fauna of the aquatic and terrestrial habitats, and to get a true experience of nature that encompass the senses. The trails are complete with detailed information about the plant and animal life in the park, and the cultural and historical points of interest. We’ll have an opportunity to swim in the enticing waters. This afternoon we’ll drive to the city of Split (1.25 hour drive). Tonight, join together with our group for dinner, a short walk from our hotel. (B, D)
Monday, May 3 – Split – Cetina River – Split
We begin our day with a guided walking tour of Split with a visit to the Synagogue and the Diocletian’s Cellars. The Synagogue of Split is one of the oldest European synagogues still in its original use, and was created in the 16th century in the one-time Jewish ghetto. The current appearance of the interior was created in approximately 1728. The most sacred part of the place of worship, the Aron Hakodesh, facing Jerusalem, was made in the Classicist style of black and white marble and is built into the western wall of the Diocletian’s Palace. After our visit, enjoy free time and lunch on your own to walk around this lovely city. After, our white water rafting adventure is about to begin! Rafting on the Cetina River is the most popular adventure trip in Dalmatia. The Cetina River is 65 miles long and enters a deep canyon through which it has been carving its way for thousands of years. Near the village Zadvarje the river is transformed into the waterfalls Velika and Mala Gubavica. After passing the waterfalls, the beauty of the canyon becomes gentler. The quiet parts of the river and the second and third grade rapids enable a 3-3.5 hour combination of adventure and relaxation in the amazing Cetina River Canyon. The distance from start to finish is approximately 7 miles. Rafting equipment is provided and includes inflatable boats, neoprene pants and jacket, life jacket, helmet and a paddle. This adventure is completely guided. Tonight is free to relax and enjoy Split. (B)
Tuesday, May 4 – Split – Hvar
This morning we’ll make our way to the Harbor of Split where a public catamaran will transport us on this 50 minute journey to Hvar, part of the Dalmatian Island chain. This morning, we partake in a sea kayaking tour. Paddle in your kayak on our 3.5 hour journey, from one inlet to another, from one island to another in less than ten minutes and explore the nature and beauty of its creations. You’ll have some free time this afternoon explore Hvar. This evening, we’ll take you on a city tour of Hvar Town. You’ll pass by the famous cathedral of St. Stephen that stands on the far end of the main town square called Pjaca, the town “loggia” with seven arcades that were constructed in 1497, and see the slender bell tower finished in the middle of the 16th century. The city tour takes you past the ancient Arsenal, once housing the War Galley. Under the same roof is the oldest communal theater in Europe, built in 1612. Tonight, enjoy dinner at a special restaurant, perched right along the water. (B, D)
Wednesday, May 5 – Hvar
This morning we will be hiking (45 minutes) to top of the Spanish Fortress, with the best views of Island Hvar and the Pakleni Islands. After our hike, it’s time for wine tasting! Andro Tomic was born on the island of Hvar and dedicated his entire life to wines and oenology and continues the 150-year long tradition of family winemaking. This afternoon, we visit a traditional family ranch, Ranch Hora, continuing the traditions began by the ancient Greeks. The Zuvela family has been working on this farm, producing organic food and wines and preparing traditional Dalmatian meals for visitors. Tonight you will have a free evening to walk around Hvar on your own. (B, L)
Thursday, May 6 – Hvar – Dubrovnik
We say goodbye to Hvar and head to Dubrovnik on a public catamaran. Our 3.5 hour sail will have us arriving just after noon. After some time to enjoy lunch in the Old City, we’ll embark on a city tour of Dubrovnik and enjoy a tour walking above the city on the city walls which surround Dubrovnik. The ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, on the Dalmatian coast, was an important Mediterranean sea power from the 13th century onwards. Although severely damaged by an earthquake in 1667, Dubrovnik managed to preserve its beautiful Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque churches, monasteries, palaces and fountains. A tour of these city walls, also known as the “open-air” museum, will definitely take your breath away. Our guided walk on the 1.2 miles of city walls are always a highlight in Dubrovnik. During the tour you’ll have a bird’s-eye view over bustling life in the city, the red tiled roofs Dubrovnik is known for, and the glorious Adriatic Sea surrounding it. This evening is yours to enjoy the Old Town. (B)
Friday, May 7 – Dubrovnik
This morning we depart for a Jewish Heritage tour. Dubrovnik Synagogue was officially established 1546. The beautiful decoration in the Baroque style was completed in 1652 and has been preserved to the present day. The partition separating the women’s gallery was added in the 18th century. At the same time, the Dubrovnik Synagogue size was increased and more seating was needed. In the middle of the oblong central hall there is a wall with three arches, and that is the Bimah in the Sephardic style. The Ark holds Torah scrolls which had been brought by the exiles from Spain. On the steps leading to the Ark is a Moorish carpet of the 13th century. The carpet is said to have been a gift given to a Jewish doctor by Queen Isabella of Spain. The ceiling of the synagogue is decorated with stucco reliefs, painted sky blue with golden stars. Chandeliers from the 19th century, in the Florentine style, hang from the ceiling. This afternoon is free to enjoy the hotel pool and the amazing views of the Adriatic Sea, or hang back in the Old Town to do some shopping, take photos or people watch in this picture perfect area. This evening, enjoy a special Amazing Journeys Shabbat, farewell program and group dinner in Old Town Dubrovnik. (B, D)
Saturday, May 8 – Dubrovnik – Tour Ends
Say goodbye to Croatia as our tour of the Adriatic Coast comes to a close today. You’ll fly back home and arrive home the same day. (B)
Our Hotels
Day 1-2 Hotel Palace, Zagreb, Croatia
Day 3-4 Falkensteiner Hotel & Spa Iadera, Zadar, Croatia
Day 5-6 Hotel Cornaro, Split, Croatia
Day 7-8 Hotel Amfora, Hvar, Croatia
Day 9-10 Hotel Rixos Libertas, Dubrovnik, Croatia
Please note:
Alternate hotels may be used.
The order of the tour may change
Many activities are weather dependent.
This tour requires above average physical activity – you must feel confident participating in the active components of the itinerary in order to participate.
Items listed on this website are subject to change at any time. By providing payment you agree to the terms and conditions as outlined on this website.
Cancellation Policy: From the time of deposit until November 5, 2020, there is a $100 penalty for cancellation. From November 6, 2020 – January 21, 2021, the cancellation penalty $650. From January 22 – March 18, 2021, the cancellation penalty is 50% of the cost of the tour. From March 19, 2021 until the day of travel, the cancellation penalty is 100% of the total package price. Cancellations made on the day of departure and “no-shows” will receive no refund. There is no refund in the event of interruption or cancellation by the passenger after the start of the journey.
Travel Protection: Amazing Journeys recommends you purchase Travel Protection. Information will be sent with your trip confirmation.
Flights: International airfare is not included in the tour rate. Arrival is into Zagreb (ZAG) and departure is from Dubrovnik (DBV). It is important that you not purchase airfare until you receive a confirmation letter from Amazing Journeys which will contain specific flight parameters.
Transfers: The meeting location for the tour begins and ends at our starting and ending hotels. Transfers from and to the airport are not included. Further details will be provided in the weeks prior to the tour departure.
Taxes and Gratuities: Taxes, surcharges, and government fees are subject to change. Gratuities have been included on this tour and include tips for the tour manager, local and adventure guides, drivers, luggage porters and included meals. Gratuities are not included for housekeeping staff in the hotels and tipping is at your discretion.
Passport and Visa: A passport is necessary to travel on this itinerary. It must be valid for six months beyond the last day of the trip. A visa is not required for citizens of the US, Canada, UK, Australia or EU countries. Please note that visa requirements can change at any time and it is up to the traveler to be aware of visa requirements.
Exchange Rate: If the rate of exchange between the US Dollar and the Euro is greater than 3%, we reserve the right to change the price of the tour. Once final payment is made, the price will not change.
This tour is operated by DT Croatia
