Grand Tour of Northern Croatia – from Split to Istria

Grand Tour of Northern Croatia

The northwest region of Croatia, where we begin our journey, feels very different from the idyllic Dalmatian Coast in the south. This heart-shaped peninsula along the Adriatic is a landscape of rolling hills and fertile valleys, perfect for food- and culture-focused travellers. Its deep Italian influence, dating back to ancient times, is still visible today—and we’ll even cross into Italy to visit Trieste and see the similarities firsthand.

From there, we travel down the coast, stopping in beloved towns and cities such as Zadar, and sailing across to two of Croatia’s largest islands—Krk and Brač. The tour ends in the central-southern region, with time in Trogir and the historic city of Split, where you’ll explore the iconic Diocletian’s Palace.

This Grand Tour is designed for travellers who want to experience Croatia at a relaxed, immersive pace.

At a Glance

• Direct flights & transfers
• 11 nights in hand-picked four-star hotels
• Daily breakfast & 8 dinners
• 14 included experiences
• Expert Riviera Tour Manager throughout
• Checked luggage included
• Free Wi-Fi
• All additional taxes covered
• Average group size: 22 guests
• Welcome drink on arrival
• Two local guides on key tours

Signature Tour Highlights

• Guided walking tour of Split, including Diocletian’s Palace and the Mestrovic Gallery
• Visit medieval Trogir, one of Dalmatia’s most charming old ports
• Stop in Slovenia for a local winery tour and tasting
• Leisure time in Rovinj, Zadar, Bol, and Trogir
• Enjoy a truffle-themed lunch in Bani
• Guided tours of Opatija and Trieste, home to Europe’s largest seafront square
• Visit a family-run farm and olive grower for tastings of cheese, meats, and tapenades
• Explore the breathtaking waterfalls and turquoise lakes of Plitvice Lakes National Park

Got it. Here’s a clean, easy-to-read version of the itinerary with spacing between each day so it’s neat and scannable:

Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival in Split
Arrive in Split, transfer to Opatija for six nights. Welcome drink and dinner.
Stay: Hotel Admiral Opatija

Day 2 – Opatija
Guided tour of Opatija. Afternoon free to explore, relax, or swim in the Adriatic.

Day 3 – Krk Island
Guided tour of Krk, free time to explore, and a winery visit in Vrbnik with wine, cheese, and prosciutto tasting.

Day 4 – Trieste & Slovenian Wine Tasting
Guided tour of Trieste, free time to explore. Winery visit in Slovenia before returning to Croatia.

Day 5 – Plitviče Lakes
Boat ride through Croatia’s oldest national park. Marvel at waterfalls and turquoise lakes. Optional land train or walking trails.

Day 6 – Istrian Coast & Rovinj
Free time in Rovinj, Istria’s picturesque fishing harbour. Special truffle dinner in Bani.

Day 7 – Zadar
Scenic journey to Zadar. Free day to explore Roman ruins, Venetian architecture, and the Sea Organ.
Stay: Hotel Plaza, Omiš

Day 8 – Split
Guided walking tour of Split and Diocletian’s Palace. Visit Mestrovic Gallery. Free evening in Omiš.

Day 9 – Omiš (Free Day)
Explore Old Town, beaches, or venture along the Omiš Riviera. Optional fortress hikes with stunning views.

Day 10 – Island of Brač
Ferry to Brač. Free time in Bol to explore, relax, or swim near Zlatni Rat beach.

Day 11 – Trogir
Visit medieval Trogir. Free time in town before lunch and tastings at a local family farm estate.

Day 12 – Return Home
Transfer to Split Airport for your flight home.