Croatia’s dramatic coastline along the Adriatic Sea is the perfect destination for a luxurious, island-hopping adventure. There are hundreds of islands to choose from, although just about 50 are inhabited. Each island offers something unique; whether you’re looking for a quiet beach, countryside retreat, delicious and locally-caught seafood, a taste of wine country, or unforgettable snorkeling, Croatia has it all.
Split
Where to Stay
Hotel Ambassador – We started our vacation in Split with a one-night stay at Hotel Ambassador. Located on the sunny West Coast Promenade, the hotel overlooks the Adriatic Sea and is just steps from local shops, restaurants and bars. We spent our jetlagged afternoon lounging at the pool and although our room was small, we enjoyed our stay and made use of the hotel amenities.
Things to Do
Bokeria
Bokeria’s ambiance, extensive wine list and seasonal menu made for an unforgettable dining experience. We wisely followed our server’s recommendation and ordered the burrata, lamb shank, and sea bass. Despite spending the next twenty minutes debating which item was best, we couldn’t decide. Every item was truly that good. Trust me when l say, Bokeria is a must-stop.
Hvar
Where to Stay
Palace Elisabeth – This five-star resort doubles as a historical landmark on the dreamy island of Hvar. Parts of the building date back to the 13th century, evident by the intricate Venetian and Austrian architectural details found throughout. The hotel is aptly named, as the staff made us feel like royalty and went above and beyond during our stay. Not to mention, the location can’t be beat. Palace Elisabeth is just steps from the Hvar’s marina and main square, the epitome of “location, location, location.”
Things to Do
Explore the Pakleni Islands
The Pakleni Islands are a chain of eleven islands perched just off the coast of Hvar. Some islands are uninhabited, while others cater to the day-tripper crowd and have a small beachside bar or restaurant. We spent an afternoon exploring the islands by boat, opting to anchor offshore and maximize our time in the clear, shockingly blue water. Come to find out, Croatia’s coast is home to some of the cleanest water in Europe.
Walking Tour of Hvar Town
Hvar’s history is long and rich; the island has been the epicenter for trade and culture in the Adriatic Sea for thousands of years. I’m the first to admit a walking tour isn’t always worth it, but given Hvar’s fascinating history, it is here. Carve out time to explore with a local, and while you’re at it, ask for dining recommendations along the way.
Malo Grablje
Malo Grablje is an abandoned village about twenty minutes from downtown Hvar. The landscape here vastly differs from what you’ll see downtown, filled with rolling green hills and rocky terrain. Stepping foot in Malo Grablje is stepping in time, making the area an excellent destination for budding photographers and nostalgics alike.
Something that isn’t widely advertised but worth your while – go to the town’s only tavern for a traditional Dalmatian pot roast lunch. Arguably one of the best meals we had in Croatia.
Giaxa
The bread rolls at Giaxa are to die for and something I’ve spent far too much time daydreaming about since. Although, quite honestly, so were the gnocchi, beef tenderloin and dessert courses…
Grab a seat on their patio, order a bottle (or two) of wine and prepared to be wowed.
Visit a Lavender Farm
Hvar once led the world in lavender production and is home to several infamous lavender fields. The flower typically blooms in June or July (depending on the weather), so plan your trip accordingly!
Korcula
Where to Stay & Things to Do
Lesic Dimitri – We admittedly didn’t stay at Lesic Dimitri but would have if we spent the night on Korcula. This was my only regret from the trip and my biggest takeaway: spend less time in Dubrovnik and more time in Korcula.
We stopped at the island for lunch and explored the historic Old Town as we traveled from Hvar to Dubrovnik by boat.
The island’s architecture is stunning, featuring a mix of gothic and baroque buildings. Dubbed ‘mini Dubrovnik” for good reason, the island’s Old Town evokes the same feel but without the large, touristy crowds. Korcula is also a great stop for wine enthusiasts and home to some incredible white varieties, such as Grk and Posip.
Dubrovnik
Where to Stay
Bellevue Hotel – This cliffside hotel is a fifteen-minute walk from Dubrovnik’s Old Town, which may initially sound like a negative. However, we found the Bellevue to be a welcome reprieve coming from the congested streets of Old Town. The hotel is perched above one of the few sand beaches in the city, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to unwind by the sea. Our stay came with a complimentary breakfast, and we were also upgraded at no additional cost!
Things to Do
Restaurant 360
This Michelin-star restaurant is in the heart of a UNESCO heritage site and boasts incredible views of Dubrovnik’s Old Town marina. Restaurant 360 is just as expensive as it sounds, but if you’re looking for an upscale dining experience with Croatian cuisine, this is THE spot in Dubrovnik. The five-course tasting menu won’t lead you astray, nor will the expansive cocktail and wine list.
Explore the Old Town
There’s no denying the beauty of Dubrovnik’s Old Town. The winding, impeccably clean cobbled streets, stunning architecture, and medieval walls leave a lasting impression. “The Pearl of the Adriatic” draws people from near and far, especially in recent years given the cult-like following of Game of Thrones.
Walk the Walls of Dubrovnik
Grab your walking shoes and hit the road early to climb the stunning walls of Dubrovnik. Entry is ticketed, although tickets are easy to come by and can be purchased ahead of time or at the wall’s entrance. The views are truly spectacular, so prepare for dozens of tourists holding their phones in the air, unknowingly blocking the narrow pathway. Hence why you should go early to avoid the crowds.
Gelato at Gianni
Looking for the best gelato in Dubrovnik? So were we, and our tour guide told us to check out Gianni. We tried several flavors during our three night stay in the city and the pistachio reigned supreme.
Buza Bar
It takes some serious searching to find this literal hole-in-the-wall bar (Buza translates to ‘hole’ in old Dubrovnik dialect), although it’s worth the extra steps and frustration. Buza Bar sits outside Dubrovnik’s famed walls, with tables scattered along the rocky Adriatic shoreline. The view is best enjoyed with an ice-cold Karlovacko, a local beer.
Until next time, Croatia.