Let the sun kiss your skin while your toes disappear under soft, white sand. Feel the spray of the Adriatic on your face. And then get ready to challenge your kids to a dune buggy race down the beach. Create lifetime memories on this action-packed, Croatia family vacation exploring the Dalmatian Coast. Our expert guides can’t wait to share the hidden gems of one of Europe’s most overlooked wonders found in Croatia’s idyllic coves and vineyard-clad hillsides. Bike through charming villages, hike mountainous coastlines, paddle enchanting bays and explore the rich coastal waters of the Mediterranean by snorkel before indulging in an ice cream cone or wine-tasting and private cooking class. Al fresco delights and a fairy-tale background of Gothic palaces make for a postcard-perfect scene on this all-inclusive Croatia vacation package. Throughout these full days, enjoy the best in regional accommodations and scrumptious fare as Austin’s signature touch of inspired, thoughtful service invites you to relax and hang out with the kids as you fall in love with Croatia’s crystalline waters, picturesque harbor towns and fresh-off-the-boat seafood. Ziveli!
Explore Croatia With Kids and Family
Smile-inducing moments await adventurers of all ages along Croatia’s isle-specked Dalmatian Coast. By day, enjoy azure waters, endearing harbor towns and picturesque villages, while nighttime brings ample opportunity for you to savor a glass of locally-produced wine, while the kids recount the cool things they learned. The Pearl of the Mediterranean has quickly reclaimed its reputation as one of Europe’s must-see destinations, and we’ve handled every detail of this custom, six-day itinerary so all you have to do is focus on laughing, exploring and experiencing Croatia on this family trip of a lifetime.
Croatia Family Vacation Package Highlights:
Ferry to Hvar Island to visit Stari Grad’s fortified Tvrdalj castle and Bianchini Palace
Pedal the turquoise, pine-fringed waters of Mina Bay to Vrboska, also known as “Little Venice” for its plethora of small bridges
Sea kayak the peaceful waters around the Pakleni Otoci islands
Build castles in the sand on Lumbarda beach
Try your hand at a savory cevapcici (spiced sausage) during a cooking class at a local restaurant
Cruise by private boat to Korčula to bike the island’s gentle vineyard and olive grove-clad hills, admiring the aquamarine backdrop of the Adriatic
A few more reasons why you've gotta go on a Croatia Family Vacation:
01
The remarkable clarity of the water: The dazzling white pebbly beaches stand out in stark contrast to the emeralds and sapphires of the ocean.
02
The multitude of activities: Sure, you get to bike, hike and kayak on this multisport itinerary, but have you ever tried a combination buggy safari and snorkeling adventure?!
03
The food: The local fare of Croatia is a mouthwatering mix of both regional and foreign influences perfected over centuries!
We meet in the morning in Split before we ferry to beautiful Hvar Island, disembarking at the quaint harbor town of Stari Grad, home to the fortified Tvrdalj castle, the impressively restored Bianchini Palace and a Dominican monastery. Mount up and pedal to Jelsa, admiring the octagonal Renaissance Church of Saint John and the turquoise, pine-fringed waters of Mina Bay and Grebišce. Continue on to Vrboska, also known as “Little Venice” for its plethora of small bridges. Explore the 16th-century church of Saint Mary of Charity and the Renaissance works of Veronese and Bassano at the Church of Saint Lawrence. Finish your ride in Hvar, whose long waterfront promenade, yacht- lined quays, traffic-free marble streets, and tasteful harbor-front bars and cafés offer the perfect retreats for relaxing and people watching. Explore beautifully ornamented Gothic palaces, a Franciscan cloister, and a historic arsenal before climbing to a Spanish fort for spectacular views of the city at sunset. This evening we gather for a festive welcome dinner.
About Hotel Adriana
Perched on a marina overlooking the city center of Hvar, the Hotel Adriana is Croatia’s first and only member of The Leading Small Hotels of the World. Deluxe rooms, a rooftop salt-water pool and spectacular lounge, garden terraces, and the Sensori Spa make the Adriana a perfect place to unwind after an active day.
This morning we set off to explore the peaceful Pakleni Otoci Islands by sea kayak. Scattered off the southwest coast of Hvar and blanketed in low pine forest, the archipelago originally derived its name from the native paklina, a pine resin once used as a ship sealant. Paddle the idyllic bays of Marinkovac Island and savor the ubiquitous scent of pine, lavender, and rosemary as you coast along the sandy beach at Sv. Klement Island. This evening, enjoy a cooking class and dinner at a local restaurant and try your hand at a Croatian specialty such as ćevapčiči (spiced sausages) with ajvar sauce, mussels and black risotto.
Travel by private boat from Hvar Town to Vela Luka on Korčula Island for a day of biking. Set on a tiny peninsula on the Pelješac channel, Korčula was first home to Slavic pirates who used the island as a base from which to attack passing ships; in the year 1000, it was taken over by Venice, marking the start of an 800-year on-and-off Venetian rule. Today, the island is renowned for its gorgeous white quarried stone, countless secluded bays, small, uninhabited islands, and breathtaking views. Make a stop in Smokvica to enjoy lunch as a group. Explore several small villages on today’s ride, which culminates in the medieval walled town of Korčula, whose Old Quarter boasts a harmonious mix of 15th century Gothic and 16th century Renaissance trimmings. Visit the home of Marco Polo, Saint Mark’s Cathedral with paintings by Tintoretto, the Town Museum, and the Byzantine Icon Museum. Feast on some fresh and authentic Croatian seafood tonight at Restaurant Riblji.
About Hotel Liburna
Recently renovated, the four-star Hotel Liburna on the island of Korčula boasts an outdoor pool, tennis courts, wellness center, and fitness center. Spacious, comfortable and a short stroll from the center of town.
Travel by private boat to Pelješac Peninsula, home to two of Croatia’s best wines, the hearty Dingač and Postup reds. Hike the trails and forests along the narrow peninsula, affording fine views of the crystal-clear, blue-green waters of the sea bordered by cypresses. Visit the fifteenth-century Franciscan Monastery and admire the votive gifts which for centuries were donated by sailors after being saved from shipwreck, storms, or pirates. Fuel up at a group lunch in a very special place before descending into the town Orebič for our boat ride back to Korčula. Why not swim in the Adriatic from the beach near the hotel? Dinner this evening is on your own.
Today we start with an exciting buggy safari heading for Lumbarda beach. Follow your guides along the coastal gravel roads above Lumbarda and Žrnovo villages, pausing to admire the spectacular views and to swim and snorkel in two hidden bays. Admire the tranquil waters and look for wildlife as you enjoy lunch on the boat. The adults can enjoy a wine tasting before making your way back to Korčula Town by bike. This evening we gather for a delectable farewell dinner.
Enjoy one last breakfast before you are transferred to the Dubrovnik airport or Dubrovnik town. Most will opt to spend a night in Dubrovnik to explore its picturesque town center which has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
*Trip itineraries are subject to change without notice due to road, weather and other factors outside of our control, for the safety and enjoyment of our guests, as deemed necessary and appropriate by Austin Adventures.
Prior to the trip, arrive at your own convenience in Split. On Day 1, we will meet you in the lobby of Hotel Park in Split at 7:30 a.m. (or at the ferry at 8:00 a.m. if you are staying at a different hotel). After a two-hour ferry ride to Stari Grad on Hvar Island, the cycling begins. After breakfast on Day 6, we take you to the hotel of your choice in Dubrovnik (2.5 hour transfer) or the Dubrovnik airport (3 hour transfer).
Activities
Biking: 8-31 miles, moderate to challenging terrain. Walking/hiking: 1-5 miles, easy to moderate terrain. Kayaking: Calm waters, no experience necessary. Other activities: Swimming, snorkeling, buggy driving, cooking class, wine tasting.
Austin Adventures guides are experienced facilitators and regional experts. They will take the time to explain the details of each activity, answer any questions, and demonstrate the use of all equipment. Each activity has been carefully planned to include options for all levels.
Cultural Discoveries
Renowned for its crystal-clear coves, wooded islands, vineyard-clad hills, and picturesque harbor towns, the Dalmatian Coast is an adventurer’s paradise. Explore the sun-drenched town of Split, a treasure trove where you can discover which walls date back to Roman times. Its palace was built for the Roman emperor Diocletian as a retirement home. Marvel at Hvar Town’s magnificent Venetian architecture, including the Arsenal which once served as a repair station for war galleons and in 1612 the Renaissance Theater was built on top of it. Sea kayak the peaceful waters around the Pakleni Otoci islands. Climb the historic walls of the ancient port city of Dubrovnik, which for so many centuries was an independent republic and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you look closely, you will discover damage from the mortar shells during the recent Yugoslavian civil war (1991-92).
Meals
The hallmark of an Austin Adventures vacation is our exceptional dining. All meals: breakfasts, lunches, snacks, dinners, refreshments and receptions are included as indicated by itinerary. (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner). Alcoholic beverages and related gratuities are not included in the trip price.
Pre-departure Information
After receiving your reservation and deposit, we’ll send you a pre-trip planner with general information about the area you’ll be visiting, a packing list, exercise guidelines, a guest information questionnaire and a liability release agreement for you to sign and return within 10 days.
What's Included
Included in your Croatia Family Vacation Package
Double occupancy rooms with private baths.
All designated meals.
Fully trained, first-aid certified, professional guides and knowledgeable local partners.
All activities, ferry crossings, wine tastings, etc.
Bikes, helmets and other necessary equipment – all safe and well maintained.
Vehicle support and land transportation during the trip.
Austin Adventures T-shirt, water bottle, luggage tags and luggage service.
Pre-departure and packing information.
Incidental expenses such as taxes, dining and housekeeping gratuities, local partner and expert gratuities and national park entrance and permit fees.
Not Included in Trip Price
Gratuities to Austin Adventures guides.
Meals not designated.
Alcoholic beverages and related gratuities.
Pre-and post-trip accommodations and associated expenses.
Air and land transportation to/from host cities.
All types of personal insurance.
Personal expenses.
View the "Wow Factor" Included in Each Austin Adventure
Activity levels are subjective depending on your general level of fitness and your experience; however, all of our trips are self-paced.
1Easy (1)
Activity levels are subjective depending on your general level of fitness and your experience; however, all of our trips are self-paced.
2Moderately Easy (2)
Activity levels are subjective depending on your general level of fitness and your experience; however, all of our trips are self-paced.
3Moderate (3)
Activity levels are subjective depending on your general level of fitness and your experience; however, all of our trips are self-paced.
4Moderate to Challenging (4)
Activity levels are subjective depending on your general level of fitness and your experience; however, all of our trips are self-paced.
5Challenging (5)
Europe Expert
Adam Beecham
Want to know how to make fast friends in foreign places and how to get the most out of a destination by experiencing it like a local? Ask Adam, a longtime Austin Adventures guide who now serves as European Operations Manager in Holland. He caught the travel bug during a semester abroad in New Zealand and Australia and quickly discovered he never wanted to stop experiencing—and more importantly, sharing—the wonder of travel. He taught English in China, managed a resort in Mexico, and now lives with his wife and child in Amsterdam, ensuring guests have the best guides and experiences possible on their European adventures.
