Croatia

Split - Dubrovnik Tour

Exploring Dubrovnik is like uncovering a treasure trove of historical masterpieces. And on this tour, you'll discover the Renaissance architecture, ancient palaces and historic churches that have earned Dubrovnik the nickname of ‘Pearl of the Adriatic'.

Dubrovnik - Konavle Valley Wine-tasting Tour with Scenic Train

Konavle valley's distinctive culture and cuisine are revealed in all their glory during this half-day tour. You'll sample locally grown wines at family-run vineyards, ride a train from village to village and tuck into some traditional food, all in the scenic surroundings of the Konavle valley. Antun, one of our local guides, says, ‘Dubrovačka Malvasija is the renowned grape variety unique to this region. Local winemakers managed to save the species, even though there were only three healthy vines remaining in the post-war period.'Located near the border with Montenegro, between mountains and the Adriatic Sea, the valley is a sun-drenched countryside escape from Dubrovnik. You'll arrive in the village of Zastolje to visit the historic Brajković winery, then it's all aboard to ride to Ljuta by train. Here, you'll see how the 500-year-old Đivanović water mill had dual purposes – since medieval times it was used to produce flour and process wool into fabric.After this visit, we'll continue to a different vineyard and wine cellar for more tasting. You'll sample some local culture when you try a typical ploughman's lunch, just as the farmers would eat during a hard day in the fields. The final stop is a third winery. Antun says, ‘You'll relish a cold glass of Konavle rosé alongside a slice of typical pandišpanj sponge cake at this vineyard. Pandišpanj is traditionally made for special occasions, like this tour, when we welcome our guests to our beautiful Konavle valley.'

Split - Mostar

East meets west in Mostar – a city where minarets and church spires rise above ancient stone houses. You'll cross the border into Bosnia and Herzegovina, and discover sights such as the world-famous Stari Most bridge and the bazaar.

Istria - Istrian Hilltop Villages Tour with Local Speciality Tasting

Legend has it that in the Mirna valley lived giants who each built a hilltop hamlet. And this tour takes you to two of them. Istria's green hills are a place of mythical beauty, and nowhere more so than in the fairytale villages of Grožnjan and Oprtalj. Ivana, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘Grožnjan was suffering from depopulation in the middle of the 20th century, so artists and musicians were encouraged to come and use its empty houses as studios. Today, there are about 40 ateliers and a popular summer music festival. Adding to the cultural mix, both villages have strong Italian communities.'Your adventure begins with a scenic drive through Istria's hills to Grožnjan – the artists' colony straddling a ridge. Wander its cluster of lanes lined with handsome stone-built homes, looking out for ancient churches and palaces. If you like arty souvenirs, the many galleries and shops are a great place to browse for handmade gifts such as jewellery, prints, textiles and fine art.Next, it's time to take a break with a tasting of local Istrian delicacies, along with wine and olive oil at a typical tavern. Rounding off the day is a visit to peaceful Oprtalj. With a long history stretching back to Roman times, there's a clutch of historic buildings to admire, including the Venetian loggia and the 16th century St George's church, located at the top of the hill overlooking the town. When you arrive at Oprtalj, your guide will show you around steep stone alleys boasting countryside views.

Istria - Ancient Istria Tour from Rovinj including Pula and Lunch

At the crossroads between Latin and Slavic Europe, Istria offers up the best of both worlds. It packs a lot into its small territory, so this tour shows off the best bits – rustic villages, Roman ruins, Byzantine basilicas and a taste of its world-class food scene. You'll visit Pula, Gržini and Poreč, enjoying scenic landscapes between stops. Karla, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘You'll get to see a side of Istria that most visitors miss when you visit Gržini village for a homemade lunch. You'll taste maneštra – a traditional Istrian country dish – and drink malvazija, the ‘queen' of Istrian wines, in a farm-to-table restaurant.'Kick off the day in Pula, spread around a bay in the south of the peninsula. This storied town is home to a well-preserved Roman amphitheatre, but that's just the tip of the iceberg – Pula boasts a wealth of ancient relics. Must-sees include the Temple of Augustus and the triumphal arch, while there are also Byzantine and baroque churches as well as a Habsburg fortress.Next, we'll head inland to the hamlet of Gržini for a traditional Istrian lunch, washed down with local wine, before returning to the coast to explore Poreč. Set on a compact headland, we'll walk the old Roman streets of Decumanus and Cardo Maximus up to the most important monument in town – the Euphrasian basilica, one of the most beautifully preserved monuments of early Byzantine art in the Mediterranean, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Istria - Ancient Istria tour from Pula including Bale, Rovinj and Poreč

Istria is an enticing mix of ancient seaside towns, vine-clad countryside and hilltop villages. Island views, good wine and delicious dishes vie for your attention. This full-day tour takes in some of Istria's star turns, including the historic village of Bale and the seaside gems of Rovinj and Poreč. You'll also tuck into a tasty lunch at a countryside restaurant in Grzini. Mauro, one of our expert local guides, says "we pack lots in on this tour. From traditional Batana fishing boats bobbing at the port in Rovinj to enjoying some typical dishes of Central Istria, plus the Byzantine Basilica in Poreč, you'll get a true insight into our region."Your adventure kicks off in Bale, a hilltop village of narrow cobbled alleys lined with medieval stone houses and Venetian palaces and churches. Wander the mazy old town before heading to Rovinj on the Adriatic coast, where the Venetian influence is everywhere. Occupying an egg-shaped peninsula, it's a treasure trove of winding streets that lead to the baroque Church of St Euphemia, whose slender belfry dominates the skyline.Then it's time to make our way to the hamlet of Grzini to feast on a typical Istrian lunch in the countryside, and after your meal we'll swing back to the coast to explore Poreč. This ancient town on a headland is now as famed for its modern bars and clubs as its Euphrasian Basilica, one of the most beautifully preserved monuments of Early Byzantine art in the whole of the Mediterranean, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Dubrovnik - Cilipi Folklore Morning

The village of Cilipi, just south of Dubrovnik, sets the scene for this half-day tour. You'll be immersed in Croatian folklore and traditions with Sunday mass at St Nicholas Church, a show and market where you can browse all kinds of handicrafts.

Istria - Kvarner Bay tour with Opatija, Lovran and local specialties

The coastline of Kvarner Bay is peppered with beautiful towns and historic locations. On this tour, you'll visit two of its most eye-catching spots – the hilltop fort of Mošćenice and the cosmopolitan seaside resort of Opatija.

Split - Omiš and River Cetina Tour

If you're in search of postcard-perfect sights and typical Croatian food, then this tour is just for you. You'll journey along the coast from Split, through the mountains and on to the coastal town of Omis. There'll also be a boat trip up River Cetina, where lunch awaits at a local restaurant.We'll set off in pursuit of stunning Dalmatian scenery along Makarska Riviera, gradually winding our way over the mountains to Omis. Hop on a boat to cruise your up the River Cetina, watching it carve through the deep gorge as it winds from the highlands down towards the teal-tinted sea.We'll disembark for a tasty lunch at a local restaurant, followed by some free time to relax by the river. After the cruise back downstream, it's time to explore Omis and its colourful history. You'll finish the day wandering the churches, fortresses and narrow streets – once walked by the notorious Omis pirates.

Split - Full-day tour of Krka National Park’s waterfalls from Brač

The great outdoors don't come any greater than Krka National Park, one of Croatia's wildest natural treasures. You'll get a chance to breathe in the freshest of airs and explore vegetation-rich and waterfall-splashed landscapes. Tomislav, a local guide, says, “It's a paradise not only for people, but for the 860 species of plants and 240 species of birds and fish that call Krka National Park home.”Krka National Park is a protected place of thundering waterfalls, lakes and riverside walks. After a brief introduction, you'll have the day to stroll along the wooden waterside walkways and admire the scenery. But the park's crowning glory is Skradinski Buk – a huge natural pool with 17 cascading waterfalls bursting through the trees. Tomislav adds, “The fairytale tiers of Skradinski Buk were formed by layers of travertine limestone building up from the mineral springs that feed it.”You'll stop here for a snack at a local restaurant with a view that you'll want to lock away and remember for ever. You've then got all afternoon to explore the park for yourself. You can go wildlife spotting along the trails, as nightingales, herons, falcons and owls are all regulars here. Plus, the water is so see-through-clear here that it's easy to spot fish in the waters of the Krka River. Simply strolling through the park's walkways gives you a whole new appreciate for the power and artistry of Mother Nature.

Dubrovnik - River Neretva Boat Tour with Lunch

The canals and lakes of the Neretva valley are the stars of this full day tour. You'll glide along the River Neretva on a trupica – a traditional Croatian riverboat – with the chance to spot wildlife as you drift towards Lake Kuti. Nika, one of our local guides, says, ‘Lake Kuti is a haven for wildlife – there are birds such the golden eagle, common buzzard and peregrine falcon as well as reptiles like the Balkan green lizard. It's a green oasis amid the region's karst landscapes.'Home to an array of diverse wildlife and flora, the River Neretva flows through just 20km of Croatia. But good things come in small numbers here, and as you cast off along the backwaters and canals of the river, you'll see exactly why. Onboard a typical wooden riverboat, you'll get up close with your natural surroundings, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way. Keep a lookout for turtles, waterfowl and other birds that call the riverbank home, as well as many species of fish.And once you've built up an appetite, we'll dock at Neretva House tavern, which is accessible by boat only, for lunch. You'll be treated to a feast of traditional Dalmatian dishes, washed down with local wine and fresh water. Then, with a full belly, you'll set off for the return journey along the river. Once you're back on dry land, you'll round off the tour with a pit stop in a secret location – it's guaranteed to be a perfect photo opportunity.

Istria - Motovun, Hum and Flavours of Istria

Like something out of a fairytale, Motovun is the sort of town you dream of eloping to. Alleys of stone houses laden with art galleries and cafés are packed either side of robust Venetian walls – you'll love it. And while it's the undoubted star of this half-day tour, you'll also discover the world's smallest town - Hum.Your first stop of the morning is hilltop Motovun – a medieval monument in itself with and stop-and-stare views over the vineyards sprawling out below. Walk around the old town, soaking up an atmosphere that's both bohemian and old-world at the same time.Next, you'll continue towards our next stop, Hum, officially the smallest town in the world. Here, you'll delve into the town's history at the Museum of Hum Aura, housed within a historic building that served as a granary and town hall for centuries. Your trip culminates with a tasting experience at a local distillery. Sample premium brandies, homemade jams, and other regional delicacies crafted from wild herbs and fruits gathered on the slopes of Mount Učka, offering a true taste of Istria.