Traveler Background:
Group Size: 10 Friends
Ages: 25 to 32
Background:
A vibrant group of friends from various professional backgrounds who share a passion for travel, wellness, and want to create unforgettable memories together. Based in New York City, they were seeking a destination that offered a mix of relaxation, adventure, cultural experiences, and ample opportunities for stunning social media content.
Travel Preferences and Values:
- Picturesque Landscapes
- Yoga and Fitness
- Meaningful and Memorable Experiences
- Engaging with Local Cultures
- Adventure and Relaxation Balance
- Photography and Videography
Why Croatia?
Croatia offers the perfect blend of stunning Adriatic coastline, vibrant culture, historical charm, and an array of wellness and adventure activities. From the historic beauty of Dubrovnik and the lively party scene of Hvar to the natural splendor of Plitvice Lakes and the dynamic city life of Split, Croatia provides everything these friends were seeking in a travel destination.
Their Custom Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Dubrovnik
Morning:
- Arrive at Dubrovnik Airport and transfer to your spacious beachfront villa in the Old Town, accommodating all 10 friends comfortably.
Afternoon:
- Settle into your accommodation and take a leisurely stroll through Dubrovnik’s historic Old Town, exploring its ancient walls and picturesque streets.
Evening:
- Group Dinner at Proto Restaurant – Enjoy fresh seafood with a modern twist.
- Alternative: 360 Dubrovnik for a fine dining experience with panoramic views.
Transportation:
- Private minibus transfer from the airport to Dubrovnik Old Town.
- Estimated time: 30 minutes
- Cost: $165 (for the group)
Day 2: Exploring Dubrovnik’s Heritage
Morning:
- Guided Walking Tour of Dubrovnik’s City Walls for breathtaking views of the coastline and city.
Late Morning:
- Visit the Rector’s Palace and the Dubrovnik Cathedral to delve into the city’s rich history.
Lunch:
- Healthy Mediterranean dishes at Nishta – a vegetarian-friendly restaurant.
Afternoon:
- Relax on Banje Beach or take a dip in the Adriatic Sea.
Evening:
- Sunset Cocktails at Buza Bar, perched on the cliffs for unforgettable sunset views.
- Group Dinner at Azur Dubrovnik – Contemporary cuisine with local ingredients.
Transportation:
- Local transportation via private minibus or arranged shuttles.
- Estimated cost: $55
Day 3: Day Trip to Lokrum Island
Morning:
- Ferry to Lokrum Island from Dubrovnik’s Old Port.
Late Morning:
- Explore Lokrum’s botanical gardens, visit the Benedictine Monastery, and hike up to Fort Royal for panoramic views.
Lunch:
- Picnic lunch on Lokrum Island with pre-packed healthy options.
Afternoon:
- Swim, snorkel, or relax at the island’s secluded beaches.
Evening:
- Return to Dubrovnik. Group Dinner at Pantarul – A farm-to-table restaurant focusing on local produce.
Transportation:
- Ferry tickets to and from Lokrum Island.
- Estimated time: 20 minutes each way
- Cost: $330 for the group (round trip)
Day 4: Sailing and Island Hopping in the Elaphiti Islands
Morning:
- Depart on a private sailing tour exploring the Elaphiti Islands (Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan).
Late Morning:
- Snorkeling and swimming in the crystal-clear waters.
Lunch:
- Beachside lunch on Lopud Island at Sunset Restaurant – Fresh seafood and Mediterranean specialties.
Afternoon:
- Continue sailing and enjoy water activities or relax on the beaches.
Evening:
- Return to Dubrovnik. Group Dinner at Lady Pi-Pi – Famous for its grilled meats and vibrant atmosphere.
Transportation:
- Private sailing tour package including boat rental and skipper for the group.
- Estimated cost: $1,650 ($165 per person)
Day 5: Travel to Hvar and Explore the Island
Morning:
- Ferry from Dubrovnik to Hvar Town.
Late Morning:
- Check into your beachfront hotel or large villa in Hvar Town, suitable for the entire group.
Lunch:
- Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Dalmatino – Traditional Dalmatian cuisine.
Afternoon:
- Explore Hvar Town’s vibrant streets, visit the Spanish Fortress for panoramic views, and relax at Pokonji Dol Beach.
Evening:
- Group Dinner at Giaxa – A historic restaurant offering delicious Mediterranean dishes.
- Alternative: Carpe Diem Beach Club for a lively beachside dining and party experience.
Transportation:
- Ferry tickets from Dubrovnik to Hvar.
- Estimated time: 3 hours (with a stop at Stari Grad)
- Cost: $440 for the group
Day 6: Adventure and Relaxation in Hvar
Morning:
- Sunrise Yoga Session on the beach or at your hotel’s terrace.
Late Morning:
- Rent jet skis or go kayaking around Hvar’s coastline for an adrenaline rush.
Lunch:
- Healthy bowls and smoothies at Zori Beach Restaurant.
Afternoon:
- Take a boat trip to the Pakleni Islands for snorkeling, swimming, and exploring hidden coves.
Evening:
- Group Dinner at Laganini Lounge Bar & Fish House on Palmizana Island – Fresh seafood with stunning sunset views.
Transportation:
- Boat rentals or organized tours for Pakleni Islands.
- Estimated cost: $550 for the group ($55 per person)
Day 7: Travel to Split and Explore the City
Morning:
- Ferry from Hvar to Split.
Late Morning:
- Check into your accommodation in Split, such as a spacious apartment or villa suitable for the group.
Lunch:
- Enjoy a meal at Bokeria Kitchen & Wine – Modern Croatian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
Afternoon:
- Explore Split’s Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and wander through the vibrant Riva promenade.
Evening:
- Group Dinner at Dvor – Elegant dining with panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea.
- Alternative: Zinfandel Food & Wine Bar for a more casual yet trendy dining experience.
Transportation:
- Private minibus transfer from Hvar to Split.
- Estimated time: 3 hours
- Cost: $440 for the group
Day 8: Day Trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park
Morning:
- Depart early for a day trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park, one of Croatia’s most stunning natural wonders.
Late Morning:
- Begin your guided tour through the park’s cascading lakes and waterfalls, enjoying scenic hikes and photography opportunities.
Lunch:
- Picnic lunch within the park with pre-packed healthy options.
Afternoon:
- Continue exploring the park’s trails, taking in the breathtaking landscapes and diverse flora and fauna.
Evening:
- Return to Split. Group Dinner at Konoba Matejuska – Traditional Dalmatian dishes in a cozy setting.
Transportation:
- Private coach rental for the day.
- Estimated time: 2.5 hours each way
- Cost: $660 for the group
Day 9: Relaxation and Departure
Morning:
- Leisurely breakfast at your accommodation with a final view of the Adriatic Sea.
Late Morning:
- Last-minute shopping or visit Marjan Hill for a short hike and panoramic city views.
Lunch:
- Light meal at Fife – Popular spot for traditional Croatian fast food with a modern twist.
Afternoon:
- Transfer to Split Airport for departure.
Transportation:
- Private minibus transfer from accommodation to Split Airport.
- Estimated time: 30 minutes
- Cost: $165 (for the group)
Estimated Total Cost:
- Accommodation (8 nights): $3,960
- Transportation: $3,520
- Includes private transfers, ferries, boat rentals, and coach for day trips
- Activities and Tours: $3,630
- Guided tours, sailing tours, yoga sessions, adventure activities
- Dining: $2,970
- Group dinners, lunches, and meal alternatives
- Total: $13,080 ($1,308 per person)
Additional Recommendations:
- Photography Gear: Bring high-quality cameras or smartphones with excellent cameras to capture Croatia’s stunning landscapes and vibrant nightlife.
- Light Clothing: Pack breathable, light clothing suitable for yoga, hiking, and beach activities.
- Comfortable Footwear: Essential for exploring historic sites, hiking trails, and beach excursions.
- Travel Insurance: Recommended for peace of mind during your adventures.
- Sunscreen and Hydration: Protect yourself from the sun and stay hydrated during outdoor activities.
- Group Coordination Tools: Use apps like WhatsApp or Google Maps for easy group communication and navigation.