Croatia & it's Islands Booklet

CROATIA & ITS ISLANDS 2019 - 2020

ZAGREB - SIBENIK - SPLIT - TROGIR - HVAR VIS - KORCULA - SLANO - DUBROVNIK 11 DAYS • FROM $4,049PP*

10 Breakfasts • 6 Lunches • 3 Dinners

journey TO CROATIA From medieval architecture to ethereal waterfalls, coast along the sparkling Adriatic Sea and experience the best of Croatia. Begin your journey in Zagreb, the illustrious capital of Croatia. Stand in awe before the cascading waterfalls of Krka National Park. Enjoy a memorable 7-night cruise on the Adriatic Sea along Croatia’s coast. Discover the ancient palace of Emperor Diocletian in Split. On Brac Island, take in the “Golden Cape” of Bol. Visit the island of Biševo, home to the mystical Blue Cave. Tour the Old City of Dubrovnik and walk along the picturesque cobblestone streets. See the country’s immaculate beauty as you cruise its vibrant waters and step into its rich history.

Plitvice

Dubrovnik

Zagreb

Krka

Mijet National Park

CROATIA & ITS ISLANDS cultural • • •

EXPERIENCES

Stand before the breathtaking waterfalls in Krka National Park.

Partake in traditional Croatian entertainment.

Explore the Old City of Dubrovnik with a local expert.

must-see • • •

INCLUSIONS

Tour Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia.

Visit Korcula Island, the debated birthplace of Marco Polo.

Relax on the “Golden Cape” of Bol, one of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia.

culinary • • •

INCLUSIONS

Dine on Continental and Istrian cuisine at a favourite local restaurant in Zagreb.

Enjoy traditional Dalmatian delicacies prepared according to ancient recipes.

Experience a captain’s dinner upon arrival in Split.

CROATIA & ITS ISLANDS

ITINERARY

Park, where waterfalls tumble through dramatic gorges.

Meander along the trails that surround the falls before embarking on a boat ride that takes you along the river to Skradin.* Tonight, embrace the culture of Croatia and become captivated by authentic traditional entertainment with dinner.

Day 4: Šibenik – Split – Board Ship

Day 1: Zagreb, Croatia – Tour Begins Welcome to Zagreb, the capital of Croatia! Settle into your hotel amidst the vibrant cafes and cobblestone streets before meeting your fellow travellers over dinner featuring Istrian cuisine.

Day 2: Zagreb – Sibenik Step right into the history and culture of everyday life in Zagreb as you tour the city with a local guide. Become acquainted with the city as you see the main sights of the capital, including the Croatian National Theatre and Opera House, the Croatian Parliament building, the illustrious Zagreb Cathedral, and the legendary Stone Gate. Then, it’s off to Šibenik! Make the most of your free evening and get to know this Dalmatian town’s historic architecture and striking coastline.

Your adventure continues in Split! Discover Split, one of the oldest cities in this historic region. In this bustling port, explore Diocletian’s Palace, the city’s famous ancient fortress. One of Croatia’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, Emperor Diocletian chose the palace to be his retirement home because of the incomparable beauty of Split. A guided tour takes you through the mysterious passageways and into the lower levels of this massive structure. Then, it’s your choice! Visit the oldest museum institution in Croatia, Split’s Archaeological Museum, founded in 1820; marvel at a diverse range of artifacts from the Paleolithic to the Iron Age -OR- admire the works of 20th-century sculptor Ivan Meštrovic during a guided tour. The Meštrovic Gallery features an array of the artist’s creations including sculptures, drawings and architecture. The museum itself is considered an art monument. In this classical city, you’ll board the 4-star MS San Spirito this afternoon. Settle into your new home for the next seven nights and revel in all of the luxuries of a small cruise ship. Later, relax onboard before experiencing a Captain’s welcome dinner. Enjoy your meal accompanied by live Klapa music, the traditional Croatian style of singing.

Day 5: Split – Trogir

Day 3: Šibenik - Krka National Park - Šibenik

Enjoy a morning at leisure to discover Split on your own.

Then it’s off to Trogir, a coastal gem renowned for its picturesque Venetian architecture. Stop for a quick swim along the way before arriving in this charming town.

Admire the striking stone houses and towering cathedral as you tour the city with a guide.

Set off on a walking tour through the ancient alleyways and roads of Šibenik where you’ll get a chance to see the Cathedral of St. James, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Then, venture to the breathtaking Krka National

Start your day in the town of Bol, located on the picturesque island of Brac. With free time this morning, perhaps you’ll choose to swim along the shore of the

Day 6: Trogir – Bol – Hvar

Rome

“Golden Cape,” known to be one of the most popular beaches in Croatia. Return to the ship for lunch, then cruise to the sunny island of Hvar. Along the way, you’ll coast by quaint coves and bays tucked along the Adriatic Sea. Upon arrival in Hvar, get acquainted with the area when a local guide introduces you to the history, culture, and lifestyle of the city. Discover how lavender was traditionally grown in the region for centuries and take a closer look at the custom. Enjoy an evening at leisure and perhaps you’ll dine in one of the many local, family-owned restaurants that Hvar is known for.

Day 7: Hvar - Biševo - Vis Embark on a morning cruise to the island of Biševo.

This island is home to the Blue Cave,* a stunning grotto with a luminous blue glow. Cruise on to Vis, a small island practically untouched by tourism and overflowing with Renaissance architecture and beautiful beaches.

With free time this afternoon, relax onboard the ship or choose to go on an optional tour of the island ending with a farm-to-table dinner.

Day 8: Vis – Korcula This morning, it’s on to Korcula, debated home to one of the world’s most famous explorers: Marco Polo. Decide for yourself if he was born in Korcula or Venice as you tour his alleged home and take in the fantastic sea views from its tower. Join a local guide and make your way along the narrow stone streets whilst you wander among the medieval buildings and vibrant houses in the town known as “Little Dubrovnik.” Enjoy the afternoon and evening at leisure to discover the charms of this age-old city.

Day 9: Korcula – Mljet National Park – Slano

of St. Mary, home to a Benedictine Monastery from the 12th century. Don’t miss out on a chance to take a swim in the strikingly blue waters. Then, your journey continues to Slano, a port city just outside of Dubrovnik.

Your afternoon and evening are at leisure…consider an optional excursion to Ston, a nearby fortified city known for its decadent oysters and seafood.

Day 10: Slano – Dubrovnik This morning, cruise past the Elaphiti Islands and be welcomed into Dubrovnik. You’ll see why the city is called the “Pearl of the Adriatic” when you take in the medieval stone walls, iconic Baroque rooftops, and winding cobblestone streets. Embrace the unspeakable feeling that you’ve stepped into another time as you explore the Old City with a local guide. Enjoy outstanding views of the city during your farewell lunch onboard. With free time in the evening, perhaps you’ll visit the famous City Walls or ride a cable car to the top of the Mount Srd for awe-inspiring views of Dubrovnik.

Day 11: Dubrovnik – Disembark Ship – Tour Ends Say goodbye to Croatia as your tour of the Adriatic Coast comes to a close today.

HOTELS Day 1 | Sheraton Hotel, Zagreb or Westin, Zagreb Days 2, 3 | Amadria Park Hotel Ivan, Sibenik Days 4 - 10 | MS San Spirito

This morning, arrive in Mljet National Park. Stroll around the Large and Small lakes before exploring the Islet *Rates are per person, double, land only. To complete your tour, we include roundtrip airport-to-hotel transfers when purchasing our airfare with your tour. If you have arranged for your own air, we are pleased to provide you the option of purchasing these transfers. Please note that all transfers will leave at pre-scheduled times. The days and order of sightseeing may change to best utilize your time on tour. Order of sightseeing on board the ship may vary based on departure and weather conditions and is at the sole discretion of the cruise line. Single accommodations are limited and are available on a first come, first served basis. Triple accommodations are not available. *Both the boat ride to Skradin and the Blue Cave operate on a weather-permitting basis and depending on water conditions. Onboard gratuities are not included in the price of your tour. Suggested tipping on board cruise: 10 EUR per person, per day for the ship crew paid in cash. Embarkation on day 5 is after 1:00 p.m. On the last day, disembarkation is no later than 10:00 a.m. Please be advised many airlines do not provide advance seat assignments until check-in at the airport. Advance seating will be subject to the airline’s terms and conditions. Air passengers will arrive into Zagreb airport and depart from Dubrovnik airport. Cabins are available on the Standard Deck. Upgrades may be available to Main Deck. Cruise ships have a limited quantity of cabins available in each category. We will make every effort to accommodate your cabin category preference at time of booking. If the cabin category preferred is not available, the next closest category available will be offered and a surcharge may apply. Stateroom numbers will be supplied upon arrival at the ship.

IDENTIFICATION Passports are required for this tour at your expense. Certain countries require a minimum of 6 months passport validity from date of return home. You are strongly urged to contact the appropriate consulate for details. IMPORTANT: We recommend that our clients traveling abroad take a photocopy of their passport and applicable visas. It should be packed separately from your actual passport and visa. We also recommend leaving a copy at home with your emergency contact. To truly experience the program and destination, you need to be able to participate in physical activities such as longer walking tours, walking over uneven terrain, climbing stairs and periods of standing. Some of the touring days may be longer, with select included activities occurring later in the evening.

can’t-miss

EXPERIENCES IN CROATIA & ITS ISLANDS KRKA NATIONAL PARK

Krka National Park is located in the Dalmatian region of Croatia and contains a section of the Krka River. Known for its cascading waterfalls and dramatic gorges, the park covers an area of over 50 square miles.

The pristine pools at the base of the falls take on a blue-green hue as they glisten vibrantly in the sunlight. You can admire the falls from the footpaths spreading throughout the park. Then, for a more intimate look at the Krka River, discover the area by boat.

ISTRIAN CUISINE

Incorporating influences from Italy, Turkey, Austria and Hungary, Istrian cuisine offers a melting pot of delicious flavors. Fresh, seasonal fare reigns supreme here along with reliance on regional farmers and local producers. Standout specialties include wild asparagus, truffles and oysters.

THE “GOLDEN CAPE”

Regarded as one of Croatia’s best beaches, the “Golden Cape” Beach in Bol offers 530 meters of white, pebbly beach. Known better by locals as Zlatni Rat, the “Golden Cape” Beach is a truly idyllic getaway spot. With pine trees providing shade and azure waters glittering in the sunlight, this seaside locale is perfect for swimming or sunbathing.

NATIONAL PARK MLJET

Discover the tranquil natural beauty of national park Mljet, a resplendent island sanctuary. Hike, bike or kayak along the island taking in the stunning views of Veliko jezero (Big lake) and Malo jezero (Small lake). It’s here you’ll also find the Islet of St. Mary, home to a Benedictine Monastery from the 12th century.

relax, we’re on it...

UNPACK LESS, ENJOY MORE PERFECTED TOUR PACING Most of our tours feature zero one-night hotel stays. It means you’ll spend the right amount of time in each destination and less time packing and unpacking.

GUARANTEED TO GO BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE Choose from many guaranteed departure dates.

Reserve with complete confidence as these selected departures are guaranteed to operate.

TRAVEL PROTECTION PEACE OF MIND Our industry-leading, worry-free travel protection plan offers you a full refund unlike many plans that only offer a voucher. Cancel for any reason right up to the day prior to departure.

PRIVATE CHAUFFEUR SERVICE INCLUDED PERSONAL TOUCHES Leave the hassle of getting to the airport behind. Enjoy round-trip home to airport chauffeur service with the purchase of air. It’s the perfect way to begin (and end) your journey.

THE

Collette Passport CLUB

RECOGNISING OUR LOYAL GUESTS Travel with Collette to become members of Collette’s loyalty program, the Collette Passport Club (formerly Travel Loyalty by Collette or TLC). Members automatically earn a $150 credit every time they travel along with various other benefits. Former TLC members with existing credits will have them automatically applied to their account.

always

included...

• Expertly crafted itineraries • 4-star+ accommodation • Skilled and engaging tour managers • Expert local guides with insider knowledge • Attraction entrance fees with preferential access • Many meals full of local flavour • Unparalleled sightseeing • Enriching cultural experiences • Comfortable on-tour transportation • Hotel-to-hotel baggage handling • Plus, access to Wi-Fi hotspots on tour

CALL 1300 792 195 | EMAIL AUsales@collette.com | VISIT gocollette.com.au | Or ask your travel agent for Collette!