Dubrovnik to Opatija

Departure at 1pm towards Korcula, the island best known as the birthplace of Marco Polo, the famous explorer. Covering many of the islands are the distinctive, almost black pine forests of Korcula is also known as "the Black Island". Korcula Town is a mini Dubrovnik, also enclosed by medieval stone ramparts and towers. The famous Moreška sword dance-fight is thought to have come to the island when the Moors raged through this region and there are regular performances.

Today we are discovering one of the last wetland deltas in Europe. We cruise to Metkovic, on the banks of the river Neretva after which the delta is named. Here, mandarins grow by water channels and we take a barge ride to explore the groves, flora and fauna, wild birds and the traditional way of life of the Neretva people. Seems a delightful, "time warp" feeling like nowhere else on the coast. The Narona Archaeological Museum in Vid, which we visit, was formally inaugurated in 2007 as the first in situ museum in Croatia to exhibit the remains of a Roman temple.

From Metkovic our cruise continues to Split, the capital of the Dalmatia region, the second largest city in Croatia with the famous Diocletian's Palace, and the UNESCO protected heritage site where Roman Emperor Diocletian chose his retirement spot! Upon arrival, a local guide takes us for a walk through the historic and buzzing old town center and to the market.

Wine and waterfalls! Cruise towards Skradin then board our coach. The first stop is the famous Bibich winery for wine tasting and light tapas lunch. Back in Skradin we walk through the Krka Waterfalls National Park and visit “Skradinski Buk”. Jaw droppingly beautiful, this is the most popular part of the waterfall area. There are 17 waterfalls, with cascades up to 100 m wide, and the Krka river tumbles 45.7 meters. A never-to-be-forgotten experience is swimming under the falls so bring your swimming things and enjoy the crystal clear fresh water.

After breakfast we leave for Zadar, the oldest university town in Croatia, famous for its rich historical heritage of world importance. At every turn of history is here: the Roman Forum from the 1st Century, St Donat church from the 9th century - the most famous medieval basilica and the symbol of the city. The mighty city walls enclose the old town and there is a representative city gate from the 16th century.

Departure towards Rab, known as the "island of love", with an old town of the same name. Guided city tour including the medieval walls, the famous four towers (and maybe climbing one of them later!) Together with palaces, churches and squares. A small Montmartre feel with many artists painting and exhibiting on the streets.

The famous Opatija Riviera is often compared to the French Riviera and we have magnificent views of it. Royal families, celebrities and musicians have all stayed in Opatija. Our experienced guide will tell you the magnificent history of Opatija and show you its most precious monuments. Walk the famous Franz Joseph Promenade - Lungomare to the fishermen's village of Volosko, home to some of the best seafood restaurants in Croatia, or enjoy the Kraš Choco Bar to try exclusive chocolate cocktails, cakes or ice cream.