Compare Croatia & Adriatic Cruise by Celtic Tours vs Croatia & Montenegro Adventure - 14 days by Serbia Tour Operator

Day 1: Arrive Zagreb.

Arrive Zagreb,where we are met at the airport and transferred to our hotel. The balance of the day is at leisure. Enjoy dinner this evening and overnight in Zagreb.

Day 2: A day in Zagreb.

A morning sightseeing tour will take us through the historic Upper Town. See St. Mark’s Church, St. Catherine’s Church, the Cathedral, Parliament, and the Government Palace. The rest of the day is ours to explore the winding streets of the old town at our own pace. Overnight in Zagreb.

Day 3: Zagreb - Plitvice Lakes - Zadar.

We head south for a visit to magnificent Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of this natural wonder with its 16 terraced lakes surrounded by forested mountains and lush vegetation. A walking tour takes us around several of the lower lakes. On to Zadar and the port to embark. Later, gather with our fellow “sailors” for a Welcome Reception on board followed by dinner.

Day 4: Zadare - Sali.

Zadar’s historical center is a pedestrian zone, perfect to explore on foot. Set out on a walking tour and admire the 16th-century walls built in by Venetians as a defense from the Turks. On to see the 16th century Port Gate where the Venetian lion still stands guard over the entrance, the Square of the Five Wells, Church of St. Donat, the Roman Forum and the largest cathedral in Dalmatia, St. Anastasia. Returning to the boat, enjoy lunch as we sail to Sali. Explore the town tonight, and have dinner on your own in one of the restaurants.

Day 5: Sali - Sibenik.

Take in the scenic natural beauty of two National Parks today. Start in Kornati, home to more than 140 islands with numerous coves and crystal clear waters. Stop for a swim during our lunchtime cruise. Next is Krka, with its breathtaking waterfalls. After your visit here, coach to Sibenik where our boat is anchored. Our evening is at leisure in town.

Day 6: Sibenik - Trogir - Split.

Take a break for a swim during our morning cruise. Sail through lunch, arriving in the UNESCO-listed city of Trogir this afternoon. Free time before heading to Split. Here, a walking tour of the historic inner city shows off the Roman Emperor Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. See the remnants of Split’s Roman heritage, its Renaissance and Gothic structures, Jupiter’s Temple, the Peristyle, and the Cathedral.

Day 7: Split - Bol - Hvar.

Stop in Bol, home to one of the best beaches in Croatia, the Golden Horn. Go for a swim in the clear blue waters before sailing to Hvar. Here, a sightseeing tour includes views of the first public theatre in Europe, the Franciscan Monastery, and many more historic sights. The evening is free to explore Hvar and to dine on our own at one of the excellent restaurants. (Note: Due to the limited capacity of the Hvar harbor (during peak season in July and August) port of call can be substituted for Stari Grad/Jelsa. In that case, transfer by bus will be organized to and from Hvar.)

Day 8: Hvar - Korcula - Mljet.

Relax on deck as we sail to Korcula, with an early afternoon arrival. Korcula is the supposed birthplace of the famed explorer Marco Polo. Take a walking tour through its narrow, cobbled streets and visit the grand Gothic-Baroque Cathedral of St. Mark. Continue sailing to the island of Mljet, where our evening is free.

Day 9: Split - Bol - Hvar.

Start the day with a tour of Mljet National Park, encompassing five types of forest and many species of birds, including eagles. A walking tour shows you the two deep lakes, Veliko Jezero (Big Lake) and Malo Jezero (Small Lake). Lunch is served on board while we cruise to Dubrovnik. We dock and head to Grgich Winery for a tour and wine tasting. Later, in Dubrovnik, take a walking tour of the old town and visit the Rector’s Palace and Franciscan Monastery with its Pharmacy. Our evening is free here in the “Pearl of Adriatic,” a UNESCO World Heritage site

Day 10: Depart Dubrovnik.

After breakfast it's time to disembark. Transfer tothe airport for our return home.

Arrival transfer from the listed airport is included. Private transfers from non-listed airports are available on request. Please check the options with your local expert.

If you are arriving in Belgrade a few days prior to the tour departure, you can book additional nights with us.

Day 1: Arrive Zagreb

Upon your arrival in Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, you will be welcomed by your guide and escorted to your hotel. On the short coach ride from the airport, sit back, relax and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere in this small gem of Europe located in the heart of the continent. Your guide will provide some basic information about the Croatian capital, tips and tricks about the local daily routine and suggest some ideas for your free time. Overnight: Zagreb.

Day 2: Zagreb City Center bike tour - Leisure afternoon

It’s time to get on your bicycle and start pedalling. An easy and entertaining ride will take you to all the key sites in less than 3 hours, which makes this a perfect tour around Zagreb for a short stay. You will discover the main highlights of the Upper town with its red tile roofs, the quaint cobblestone streets and countless church spires, as well as the Lower town with its architecturally different house facades, the domes and colourful murals made by the street artists. You’ll pass the magnificent Croatian National Theatre and St. Mark's Church, feel the energy of Zagreb's most vibrant greenmarket - the Dolac market, cross the mysterious Grič Tunnel and see the Cathedral from the most beautiful viewing point. The real treat of the tour are the stories about the Bloody Bridge or noontime "big bang", the story about the magical powers of the Stone Gate and the manual lighting of the street lamps in the Upper Town still present to this day.

The Cycling Zagreb adventure ends just around noon, so use your free time to explore the city on your own. Our recommendation would be Mirogoj - one of the most beautiful cemeteries in Europe, a stunning park and an open art gallery, all in one. Of course, Zagreb offers countless museums and entertainment options. In the end, the choice is yours. Overnight: Zagreb.

Day 3: UNESCO’s NP Plitvice Lakes: Walk and discover the Devil’s garden

Depart from the Croatian capital and in a couple of hours you will reach Plitvice Lakes National Park.

No matter what kind of traveller you are, during your visit to Croatia, Plitvice lakes are not to be missed, not just because of the UNESCO World Heritage Site label, but because of its indescribable nature. Our sightseeing approach will give you deep-insight and an opportunity to meet Plitvice Lakes very thoroughly and off the beaten tracks. The hike through the National Park will show us untouched nature highlighted by the idyllic waterfalls and 16 interconnected cascading lakes. On the old maps, the national park was called “Devil’s Garden” but its dense forests, splashing waterfalls and emerald lakes can only remind you of Heaven. A short boat and a panoramic train ride will help you catch as much of the landscapes as possible, so sit back and admire this wonder of Nature.

You will be in awe with the magnificent nature, so take your time during the ride to the hotel on the Adriatic coast to relax and reflect on your incredible day. Overnight: Starigrad or Zadar.

Day 4: UNESCO’s NP Paklenica - City of Zadar with Sea Organ

The rugged peaks of the Velebit massif in the Paklenica National Park are just a stone's throw from the hotel. Croatia's largest forest area is weaved by numerous ravines and rivers that make this UNESCO World Heritage Site an excellent area for your next adventure. So, lace up your hiking boots and go through a complex nature full of contrasts, Wild West scenography with sharp karst shapes on one side and the soft greenery on the other. The most attractive points are vertically carved canyons and impressive cliffs decorated with climbers as this is the most known climbing site in Croatia. After the abundance of geomorphological forms, diverse flora and fauna, attractive landscapes and intact nature, you can be sure that you will be just as amazed by Tito’s nuclear bunker that is to follow.

Our “return to civilisation” comes with a great reason – to meet Zadar, the oldest, continuously-inhabited Croatian city. This city will show you the glory of the Gothic-Romanesque architecture found in the Cathedral of Saint Anastasia, the largest cathedral in the Dalmatia region and St. Donatus, the monumental round construction from the 9th century whose base dates from Roman times. Afterwards, we are drawn to the furthest end of the peninsula to see an extraordinary sight - the Sea Organ, an experimental music instrument whose melodies are created by the breaking waves on the tubes located underneath a set of marble steps. A “Greeting to the Sun” will be the most perfect end to this rich, fulfilled day. Strolling down the city on your own, treat yourself at one of the many cosmopolitan cafes. Drive back to the hotel in just under an hour. Overnight: Starigrad or Zadar.

Day 5: NP Krka walk with boat ride to the Skradin town – City of Šibenik

The first part of this day will be dedicated to the sparkling green of the Croatian rivers. The joined waters of the Krka River and its largest tributary, the Čikola River, fall over the 17 cascades of Skradinski buk waterfall and create an absolutely magical place.

This picturesque and most unusual confluence in Croatia is well known by the open vistas and island formations covered in aquatic plants. Hiking along the banks and over Krka River while you feel splashes of the waterfall nearby will be really fun and refreshing, but the full impression of the Krka river mightiness will be visible only by cruising along it all the way to the Skradin town. Once you are there, don’t miss the opportunity to try an awesome local speciality, the Skradin risotto.

In the second part of the day, the city of Šibenik awaits. This medieval Venetian city is famous for its narrow curvy streets, stone-made houses, stairs and remains of the old city walls. It is a home to many significant landmarks, among which is the Cathedral of Saint James (found on the UNESCO World Heritage List). This magnificent building has been constructed by locals for hundreds of years and it certainly deserves a special acknowledgment on this tour. Šibenik is the perfect town to make a short break. Spend your free time to explore Šibenik and its lovely squares on your own. Overnight: Split or Trogir.

Day 6: The Historical Maze of Dalmatia: Trogir and Split

Feeling lucky to start your day in Trogir, a charming little town with medieval walls, magical architecture and a wonderful sea view, you are ready for today’s adventure. Being in this town will seem like you travelled back in time through centuries, all the way to the Trogir’s Golden era, today, still visible in the magnificent Cipiko Palace, the Venetian Cathedral of St. Lawrence, the Gothic town hall and mighty walls along the waterfront. Walking through the city centre (UNESCO World Heritage Site) with cobbled streets and passages, among different architectural styles, listening to the stories about medieval time and feeling the atmosphere of the glorious times past, you will find yourself immersed in the incredible history of Trogir.

A natural unfolding to this fulfilled day is a visit to the city of Split, the successor of Solin, the capital of Roman province Dalmatia. Split was actually the periphery of Solin whose very important citizen – the emperor Diocletian, chose Split’s downtown as a place for his palace. That is how the splendour of Split began and how the heart of the city was shaped. Walking down the Split's streets is similar to wandering through a historical labyrinth. You will enter the bronze gate in the south, pass by the cathedral of St. Domnius, one of the best preserved buildings of Roman times, reach the golden gate in the north to touch the left toe of the statue of Gregory of Nin. According to the legend, all visitors who touch the toe of the statue will ensure their return to Split someday. Our tour ends on the busy seafront, complete with palms and yachts, colourful shops in Roman passages, and charming bars with creative interiors.

Spend your free time to enjoy the remarkable view of the Split’s historical centre from Marjan Hill and feel the life and energy of the locals. Overnight: Split or Trogir.

Day 7: Brač – Flavours and Sceneries of the authentic Croatian island®

The next three days you will be discovering the incredible Adriatic coast and Dalmatian archipelago.

Your first stop is the island of Brač, with the highest peaks among the Croatian islands. With a smaller number of tourists, but without big crowds and pomp as the glittering islands in its neighbourhood, Brač provides an excellent opportunity to delve into the authentic life of locals, particularly in the inland.

Your sightseeing starts at the Museum of olive oil since olive cultivation here dates back all the way to the Venetian time and there's over a half-million trees planted. Warmly welcomed by hosts, you will get interesting insights into the production process. Spice up your visit by tasting various local delicacies. Later on, head up to Vidova Gora, the roof of the Croatian islands. From this point, you will go downhill along the rocky trails to the town of Bol. This small place, adorned by lovely old houses, offers great restaurants for lunch or snack by the promenade. Walk a little bit more and spend your well-deserved break at one of the most attractive beaches in the world – the Golden horn (Zlatni Rat).

Later in the afternoon, meet again with your guide at the harbour for your half-hour catamaran ride to the island of Hvar. Overnight: Hvar Island.

Day 8: Hvar Island: The ghost-like villages with lavender scent - Medieval Hvar town

After breakfast, the queen of the Croatian islands – Hvar is expecting you. It is so much more than just the glitz and glamour of its main town. The significance of the island dates back from the ancient times. The important strategic and nautical position of Hvar had been the main cause of rich and turbulent times throughout its history. Its separation from the mainland protected the island from some of the modern influences and preserved the harmony between man and nature. This is visible in the white-washed towns and historic cobbled streets, in the fields of lavender and azure waters, as well as the home-style restaurants serving delicious Dalmatian fare. With all this in mind, you will visit one of the households that cultivates lavender and hike through the abandoned ghost-like village Malo Grablje. Somewhere in the middle of the Hvar hiking route, you’ll get to the Milna just in time for refreshment at one of the restaurants with a wide seafood offer. As you continue hiking along the coast, you will be rewarded with marvellous views. You will arrive in the capital of the island – the city of Hvar.

Quite often visitors describe their time spent in the town of Hvar like being a part of a fairy-tale. The scenography features 13th-century walls surrounding beautifully ornamented Gothic palaces and traffic-free marble streets. This small bay town will show you its full glory especially through the stories about significant historical events and people, related to the cathedral, monastery or fortress. Some would say that this incredible island simply has it all: rich history, vibrant nightlife, high-class service, wonderful nature and stunning viewpoints to admire it. Finally, you will have spare time to enjoy the crystal clear waters. Overnight: Hvar Island.

Day 9: Wine Duet: Korčula Island & Pelješac Peninsula – Walls of Ston

The third island in our itinerary will be sure to astonish you as well. Korčula, the most tranquil island of our adventure, got the name from the Greeks due to its dense pine forest - Korkyra Melaina (Black Corfu). The Korčula Town is also known as Little Dubrovnik for its mighty city walls, medieval squares, churches, palaces and houses. Locals say it still keeps secrets about the life of one of the most famous explorers in history – Marco Polo. Tip of the day: there is a nice bar in the Zakerjan tower at the far end of the old town where you can enjoy spectacular views of the strait in the distance.

The Mediterranean climate, soil quality and the terrain’s morphology provide the perfect conditions for wine-growing. In Lumbarda village, the heart of Korčula’s wine making, you will have the opportunity to taste various sorts of wine, as well as the most authentic ones, pošip and grk. The perfect ending to your visit to Korčula is tasting some of the most known Croatian wines and snacks at the local family winery. After this wonderful experience, get on the ferry, and head to your next destination, leaving behind old little houses, settled on the edge of the island. Upon your return to continental Croatia, enjoy the ride through the Pelješac peninsula. The largest Croatian peninsula, covered with macchia, is widely known by two trademarks: wine and oyster. This region, Dingač, with its famous symbol - the donkey, is the first protected wine region in Croatia. On your way to Dubrovnik, along the coast of the Adriatic, there will be a short photo stop by the impressive old city walls above the town of Ston. Overnight: Dubrovnik.

Day 10: UNESCO’s Dubrovnik: Movielike Old Town and Kayak Experience

Get ready for a lovely walking adventure through Dubrovnik’s Old Town. This maze of beautiful white marble streets (UNESCO World Heritage Site) is surrounded by a 2 km long wall which hides medieval treasures: the city’s baroque churches, magnificent palaces, significant monuments, medieval gates and marble streets. Its numerous art galleries and unique artisanal shops keep the artworks of many artists who found inspiration in this light-coloured-stone city. Walking through the historical centre, you will start and end your visit at the main street Stradun, and in between, you will hear facts, tales and legends about the Pile Gate, Big Onofrio’s Fountain, the cathedral, main square Placa and wonderful ornaments of Rector’s and Sponza Palaces. A lunch or refreshment in the city port will complete the story about Dubrovnik. Even with the spectacular morning, the real highlight of the day is kept for the afternoon – time to meet Dubrovnik from a different perspective. You saddle up on kayaks, row along the coast and admire the view of the pink-grey city walls, which stand out against the azure blue water. Be sure that this experience will boost the impression about the mightiness of the city walls and give you a chance to enjoy both the attractive shore of the Lokrum isle and the cave up close. This beautiful island holds a lot of mysteries and according to the legend it was a shelter to King Richard the Lionheart in the 12th century. Our guide will tell you the whole story once you arrive there. Lokrum Island has been a set for filming the Game of Thrones, and it is another inevitable destination for the true lovers of the series. Overnight: Dubrovnik.

Day 11: The Bay of Kotor: Perast town – Boat ride to the Our Lady of the Rocks isle – UNESCO’S City of Kotor – Olive oil tasting

This day is devoted to the Bay of Kotor with its unique scenery. First stop is at the town of Perast, a little settlement baroque in style, where a relaxing boat ride to the picturesque island of Our Lady of the Rocks starts. This artificial islet is home to a church known by mystifying story and valuable artefacts like paintings by local artist, votive silver tablets and a hair-made tapestry. After short boat tour, marvellous Kotor kept in the mediaeval wall-frame is welcoming us. A walking tour shows multicultural richness through churches of Saint Nicholas and Saint Luka, the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon and all the glory of this UNESCO site. Use your free time to continue wandering around the stone paved town, or enjoy offer of fish restaurant at one of romantic squares. The break is perfect preparation for more than 1.500-step-hike which reaches the Fortress of St. John, point with mind-blowing panorama of Kotor Bay which for sure will become part of lifelong memories. For the end of this day, one more thing is left - a visit to the Morić Olive Farm, family-owned and operated estate, settled in Luštica Bay. It brings you an exquisite opportunity to feel the spirit and explore the rich heritage of the authentic household, taste the organic extra virgin olive oil of premium quality and simply enjoy the ambience of one of Montenegro’s most famed olive growing areas. Overnight: Budva or Kotor Bay.

Day 12: NP Lovćen Mountain: Gastronomy, History & Adventure

The Lovćen massif area is considered to be one of the most important places in Montenegrin culture and history. Just getting there is a unique adventure: the stunning view of the Boka Bay will leave you in awe, while driving up the old, Austro-Hungarian 25-serpentine-road. First stop for the day is Njeguši, the village known as the birth place of the royal dynasty Petrović and a ‘guardian’ of the authentic architecture and cuisine in the region. Njeguški sir and pršut (cheese and prosciutto of Njeguši), a real treat for true foodies, are both genuine contributions to Montenegrin cuisine, produced only in this area, following the traditional recipe for smoking and curing meat. Tasting the most famous specialties of the region makes us ready for one more breath-taking peak. The National Park Lovćen encompasses the central and the highest part of the Lovćen massif, covering an area of 6.400 hectares. On top of one of the mountain’s two imposing peaks, lies a magnificent mausoleum – the tomb of Montenegro’s greatest person in history: II Petrović Njegoš. It takes 461 steps to climb to reach but it is a great adventure. The journey is well worth the effort – you will be rewarded with a spectacular viewpoint from the world’s highest mausoleum. The trip continues to the Lipa Cave, one of the largest caves in Montenegro, for a great underground adventure. One-hour exploration discovers the cave’s beautiful and wild system of 2.5 kilometres long trails and halls, splendid cave ornaments and gives chance to find out some fun facts about the cave and its surrounding. Back on the sunny surface is pleasing and on the way back to the hotel, a short photo-break right above the islet of St. Stefan, an emerald of Montenegro, is reword for invested energy on this day. Once a shelter for the locals during attack of pirates and Turks, today it is luxurious hotel with private access for exclusive guests: even Novak Đoković chose it as the venue of his own wedding.

Use free evening and try out some of the finest Montenegrin wines, made from the authentic red grape variety Vranac, as well as some organic honey, figs, and a homemade spirit called rakija. It is highly recommended to enjoy these delicacies at the konoba, small, traditional restaurants owned by local families and are the true essence of Montenegrin’s warm hospitality and friendship. Overnight: Budva or Kotor Bay.

Day 13: River of Crnojević – Poseljani village - NP Skadar Lake with boat ride

It is time to say goodbye to the coast and head to the heartland of Montenegro. Your day starts by passing the River of Crnojević, a small settlement dating back to the 15th century, which to this day counts only 200 inhabitants. With its strategic positioning and river flowing directly into the Skadar Lake, this settlement was the largest Montenegrin harbour and leading merchant bazaar in the 19th century.

The journey goes through the vivid, old caravan road featuring several lake viewpoints and an incredible opportunity for stunning panoramic photos. A special part of your day will be the visit of the village Poseljani with its movielike houses, mills, and small stone bridges dating back to the 18th century, all authentic scenes and examples of the architecture of this region.

Fishing village of Virpazar is a departure point for boat ride on Skadar Lake. As you glide through the mirroring water, the numerous lake’s attractions reveal: the extraordinary birds, the water lilies in full bloom, and wild, secluded beaches. Skadar Lake has an area ranging from 370 to 530 square kilometres, depending on the water level and it is the biggest lake of the Balkans. The river Bojana creates a connection between Skadar Lake and the Adriatic Sea through a large mountain massive that separates the two. This day, dedicated to the rural and natural area, ends at the Montenegrin capital, Podgorica. Overnight: Podgorica.

Day 14: Departure day

Departure from Podgorica or any non-listed airport.

Departure transfer to the listed airport is included. Private transfers to non-listed airports are available on request. Please check the options with your local expert.

If you are departing from Belgrade a few days after the tour end, you can book additional nights with us.