The Dalmatian Coast
Dalmatian Coast Holidays
From Zadar in Northern Dalmatia, through Split and Central Dalmatia and down to Sothern Dalmatia to Dubrovnik.
Zadar
Described by the New York Times as Croatia’s most underrated destination, Zadar is often overlooked in favour of her glitzier Dalmatian cousins, but is certainly worth exploring. Easily accessible, we suggest you start your Dalmatian journey here.
Zadar’s influences include Byzantine, Venetian, Ottoman and, from after WWI to 1943, Italian. The town suffered German occupation in WWII and was famously under siege during the Balkan war in the 1990’s, although luckily the old town has been well preserved. Now resurgent, the town is the capital of Northern Dalmatia with a population of 100,000.
Split
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 seven-bedroom Vestibul Palace within the palace walls. 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.
The Islands
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. On Hvar, we recommend the Adriana Spa Hotel. Day trips can be made to the beautiful National Park on Mijet, 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.
Dubrovnik
The magnificent walled city should be top of your wish list for Dubrovnik holidays. 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.
Dalmatian Coast Holidays & Beyond
Scenic Montenegro is just 90 minutes drive from Dubrovnik and home to the stunning Aman Sveti Stefan. The former royal summer residence of Villa Milocer on the mainland is part of the resort.
We can help you see beneath the surface of this fascinating region. Having an Exeter International experienced guide will make your journey come alive.
For more information Dalmatian holidays and holidays to Croatia please call us on 020 89562756 or email us at enquiries@exeterinternational.co.uk or request more information above.