Luxury Croatia Tours

Despite a surge in popularity in recent years, Croatia remains one of the last unspoiled gems of the Mediterranean. Explore the magnificent coastline, laze in the sun or enjoy a cultural city break.

Croatia’s most beautiful regions include the west coast of the Istrian peninsula, where you’ll find Roman ruins, Venetian architecture and a landscape reminiscent Tuscany. Further south is the superb Dalmatian coast, which stretches from Dubrovnik to Split and is dotted with pristine islands.
 
The ideal times to explore Croatia are from April to June and September to October. This allows you to make the most of the superb climate and avoid the peak-season crush of cruise ship passengers. In high summer we recommend you “fly and flop”.

Istria

The Istrian peninsula is Croatia’s most important truffle-growing region. We recommend staying in the beautiful town of Lovran, at the Villa Astra, the former home of the Austro-Hungarian aristocracy, now converted into a boutique hotel.

Split and the Dalmatian Coast

Split is Croatia’s second largest city after the capital Zagreb. Its historic heart is dominated by the Diocletian Palace Complex, built by the Roman emperor Diocletian, who regarded the Bay of Split was one of the most beautiful spots in the world. In Split, we love the Vestibul Palace and the Hotel Marmot, both within the palace walls. If you prefer a resort feel we suggest the Le Meridien approximately 4 miles from the city centre.

A few miles to the north is Trogir with facades ranging from Romanesque to Renaissance and Baroque. It is worth spending half a day exploring this lovely town.  You may also choose to stop at the ancient city of Salona, the most important early Christian archaeological site after Rome. 

It is possible to take day trips to islands off the Dalmatian Coast. We recommend the island of Brac, source of the marble used to build the White House, and fashionable and funky Hvar. If you have time, stay at the Deskovic Palace on Brac. On Hvar, we recommend the sleek, ultra-modern Hotel Riva.

Dubrovnik

The magnificent walled city of Dubrovnik should be top of your wish list. This historic city is a UNESCO World Heritage site with influences ranging from Venetian and Spanish to Roman and Genoese.
 
We recommend the seafront Hotel Bellevue, with its own private beach. If you prefer to be within the city walls we suggest the Pucic Palace Hotel.  This intimate historic property is one of the only hotels in the heart of the historic district. 

Scenic Montenegro is just 90 minutes drive from Dubrovnik and home to the stunning Aman Sveti Stefan, due to open in Autumn 2009. The former royal Summer residence of Villa Milocer on the mainland is part of the resort and is already open with 6 stunning suites.

Luxury Croatia extras

Some of the islands can be explored by private yacht. Day trips can be made to the beautiful National Park on Mljet, and onto the Peljesaki peninsula, famed for its oysters. It is also possible to sail to  the island of Korcula, birthplace of Marco Polo and home to one of Croatia’s most exclusive hotels, the Lesic Dimitri Palace.  

At Exeter International, we offer the finest guides and transportation. We can provide hotel and transfers, or include sightseeing, private yachts and yacht hire. For more details about luxury Croatia holidays, email us or phone our expert consultants on 020 8956 2756.