Amazing Trip to Croatia

Split is beautiful with a very quaint old town and a gorgeous Riva with a long promenade you can stroll on. The Ambassador is the only 5-star property in Split and is situated just a 5-minute walk to the Riva. It's along the water, so boasts gorgeous views of the town, Riva and the harbor. The service is excellent, and the rooms are modern and nicely appointed. Although some rooms can feel a bit snug, you can upgrade to large rooms and even some with balconies that overlook the water and town. What's also nice about the property is that it has a beautiful pool and indoor spa you can take advantage of when not touring.

Tin arranged a walking tour of Split on the first evening, which is a perfect way to get acquainted with the old town and hear about the history. There's also Jewish heritage to learn if that's of interest.

The cooking class was a great activity in Split. Walking the fish market on the one end of the old town and then the vegetable market on the other was a great way to start the class. Plus, it's a short stroll to the private kitchen where you can help the chef prepare local seafood while sipping on some delicious wine.

The town of Hvar (on the island of the same name) was the 2nd stop, which was beautiful and hopping. Yachts of various sizes filled the harbor, and tourists and local party-goers of all ages came to enjoy the scene. The Elizabeth hotel, situated right at the harbor, is extremely elegant with upscale food, pool, spa and service. The rooms were large and well-appointed.

Korcula, the 3rd stop, is more quaint and low-key compared to Hvar and has a very cute and small old town with a variety of shops. A nice spot for at most a night or even better as a stop for lunch on a day at sea. Although the Lesic Dimitri Palace has a Michelin-starred restaurant with delicious breakfast and is a Relais & Chateaux property, the themed rooms are odd and not well-appointed. I would recommend choosing a more mainstream hotel instead.

Finally, Dubrovnik was a perfect way to end the trip. What a gorgeous old town with so much history, both old and new, that a walking tour is well deserved. With the 2nd oldest functioning synagogue in Europe, there's a bit of Jewish heritage to share as well. Plus, if you are up for it, a hike to the top of the mountain overlooking Dubrovnik provides for some great pictures.

Hotel Excelsior is a short walk to the old town and rooms have amazing views of the old city walls and port. Modern and nicely appointed, the hotel also has a great indoor pool, spa and sun deck along the water. Breakfast was plentiful, but the expression of quality over quantity would be something for them to keep in mind.

A huge Thanks again to Tin at Journey2Croatia for organizing a spectacular trip!

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Croatia. In need of further inspiration? Check out Katie Gooding’s guide, Croatia Cities to Visit: A Journey Through Its Ancient Adriatic Gems.