The Best of Croatia

Venice rises proudly from its lagoon, a city shaped by centuries of maritime history. Its iconic landmarks such as St. Mark’s Square, the basilica, Doge’s Palace, and the Grand Canal offer timeless charm, while gondolas glide beneath arched bridges. Beyond the postcard views, quieter corners reveal a maze of alleys, canals, and hidden churches inviting exploration. Soak in the city’s atmosphere with a refreshing Spritz and local bites like tramezzini, savoring both its grandeur and everyday rhythms.

Just off the coast of Split, Hvar blends timeless traditions with natural charm. Stari Grad, considered the oldest town in Croatia, rests along a tranquil cove on the island’s northwest coast. Surrounding it are the Stari Grad Plains, where dry stone walls built during the Greek era still stand and have earned recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site. These ancient plots yield wine and olive oil crafted through traditional methods. In the upper part of town, locally produced hams and cheeses showcase the region’s culinary heritage.

When your ship drops anchor across from the Croatian village of Sibenik, in the heart of Central Dalmatia, you will have the possibility of discovering the exceptional Krka Waterfalls. Krka National Park, with its eight waterfalls formed by calcium carbonate deposited by the water as it flows along the Krka river, is one of the most spectacular in Croatia. During an optional excursion, visit this lush natural site boasting an incredibly rich fauna and flora.

On the Dalmatian coast, the town of Split offers cultural visits in a seaside atmosphere. Close to the seafront, shaded by palm trees, the historical center listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site boasts a unique building: the Diocletian’s Palace. Here, you will explore its galleries, courtyards with carved columns, as well as a former mausoleum converted into a church, namely Saint Domnius Cathedral. If you get peckish, stop off at a terrace in the Pjaca, the main square in the old town, where you can try a palacinka, a kind of pancake topped with melted cheese.

Situated in one of Montenegro’s most beautiful bays, the medieval city of Kotor is a small town full of charm, truly imbued with the traditions and stories of another time. Built between the 12th and 14th centuries, this village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has preserved many historical monuments from this epoch. During your stop, be sure to admire the impressive castle that dominates the town, and let yourself fall under the charm of its maze of small streets and intimate squares on which folk festivals featuring magnificent colourful costumes are often organised.

Emblem of the Dalmatian coast, Dubrovnik is magnificently positioned on a rocky spur. History is sovereign here, in this ancient city, now a listed UNESCO World Heritage site. You will perhaps be surprised by the proportions of La Placa, the central drag through the city. The sheer width of it can be explained by the fact that it straddles a former lagoon. The elegant houses along La Placa are built in the legendary travertine stone. At Pile Gate, you will be greeted by the statue of the patron saint of Dubrovnik, and you can admire the coastline as you walk along the ramparts. But what’s inside Fort Saint John, adjoining the outer walls? A maritime museum and an aquarium featuring rare fish from the Adriatic.

This harbor town has a very special location, presiding on a spur on the northeastern coast of the island of Korçula. The ramparts in its medieval district provide perfect vantage points over the Peljesac peninsula. To get there, you can take the monumental staircase in the Revelin Tower. Another way is to climb the steps in the shade of palm trees from the MorskaVrata (Marine portal). As you make your way through the little streets, you’ll see the bell tower of Saint Mark’s cathedral rise above you. This landmark will help you locate the house where Marco Polo was born. The island also has some of its famous wines, like the red Plavac and the white Posip.

Rovinj is located in Istria, a region bordering Slovenia. This becomes apparent as you walk through its old cobblestoned town. There are many monuments of Venetian influence here. If you study the Balbi arch, you will see the winged lion, a symbol of Venice. The bell tower erected beside Saint Euphemia Cathedral was designed like the bell of Saint Mark in Venice. From the top of the tower, you can scan the entire historical district. To absorb its quaint atmosphere, take a walk in the ochre and sepia-coloured streets leading to bustling squares and terraces shaded by canvas awnings.

Proud and eternal, Venice has reigned on its lagoon ever since the 6th century. You may think you know this city before even setting foot here. You will inevitably fall in love with the charm of the innumerable treasures of the Serenissima: Saint Mark’s square, the basilica, Doges palace, the Grand Canal and the gondolas. Yet, secret Venice is also waiting for you to explore its little interlacing streets and canals, to ramble through its squares and to push open the doors of its churches. The city’s extraordinary heritage shouldn’t stop you from enjoying a glass of Spritz and a few tramezzini.