Experience the very best of Croatia's Christmas Markets on this week-long tour. It's well outside the tourist season so you'll be able to enjoy Croatia like a local. The Croatians love Christmas time, a chance to relax after the busy season and enjoy the company of their family, as well as tasting the traditional seasonal food and drinks. All of our tours are custom, and this is just a sample meant to give an idea for what our trips are like, and the opportunities our destinations provide.
One of our team members in the region will be available to you leading up to and during your trip to answer any questions and arrange local services. You will receive access to your Guest Page, with its information on the best these destinations have to offer, including things to see and do, and other inside tips from restaurant recommendations to tipping advice. Upon arrival, we will provide you with a local cell phone that you can use to reach your local JayWay contact (who you will meet in person) throughout your trip. In all of our destinations, we offer a variety of memorable 3-5 star accommodation options, including boutique hotels, charming B&Bs, and spacious apartments. With our firsthand experience, we can ensure they are all clean, comfortable, and centrally located, with local ambience.
3 Nights in Zagreb
3 Nights in Zagreb
3 Nights in Zagreb
Zagreb is a city where different worlds have long come together. Situated at the intersection of ancient trade routes between the Adriatic and Central Europe, it is a cosmopolitan place with various cultural influences evident in the cuisine and architecture at home in any Austro-Hungarian city. You’ll love exploring the open-air markets, impressive buildings, peaceful parks, and many delicious restaurants. Just strolling through the unique combination of medieval towers, 19th century palaces, ancient churches, and market squares is a pleasure, but there’s much more to do here. After exploring all that the city has to offer with a local guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your time. You could also take a guided bike tour around the city, to get a little exercise as you experience the city. But you’ll also want to explore some of the region surrounding Zagreb. As a longer day trip, you could see the delightful Trakoscan, a neo-Gothic castle sitting on a hilltop, surrounded by a romantic English style park with exotic trees and an artificial lake. While you’re there you can also stop in Varazdin to appreciate its ornate baroque architecture.
Zagreb is a city where different worlds have long come together. Situated at the intersection of ancient trade routes between the Adriatic and Central Europe, it is a cosmopolitan place with various cultural influences evident in the cuisine and architecture at home in any Austro-Hungarian city. You’ll love exploring the open-air markets, impressive buildings, peaceful parks, and many delicious restaurants. Just strolling through the unique combination of medieval towers, 19th century palaces, ancient churches, and market squares is a pleasure, but there’s much more to do here. After exploring all that the city has to offer with a local guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your time. You could also take a guided bike tour around the city, to get a little exercise as you experience the city. But you’ll also want to explore some of the region surrounding Zagreb. As a longer day trip, you could see the delightful Trakoscan, a neo-Gothic castle sitting on a hilltop, surrounded by a romantic English style park with exotic trees and an artificial lake. While you’re there you can also stop in Varazdin to appreciate its ornate baroque architecture.
Day 1
Day 1 - Arrival in Zagreb
We'll arrange for a driver to meet you at Zagreb's airport and take you to your centrally located accommodation.
Our representative will then meet with you to answer any questions you have and to get you settled for the rest of your trip.
Take it Easy
Day 2
Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Zagreb
Zagreb Private Walking Tour
Zagreb City Private Walking Tour explores the most vibrant city in Croatia. In spite of the rapid economic development of the last few decades, Zagreb has retained its charm and a relaxed feeling that makes it a genuinely human city. Your guide will show you around the local points of interest, including the Upper Town, Kaptol, St. Mark’s Church, the Parliament, Zagreb Cathedral, Dolac Market, and the Stone Gate, completing the tour with a funicular ride.
Europe's Best Christmas Market
Voted "Europe's Best Christmas Market” for the last three years in a popular public poll, Zagreb goes all out to wow locals and savvy vacationers. The city's main market takes place in Ban Jelacic Square, the city’s main plaza. Next to the old town’s entrance, this square is for pedestrians but connects to most tram lines (including the Christmas Tram). However, every square in the center has its own specialty. King Tomislav Square, in front of the Art Pavilion, turns into a large ice skating rink, surrounded by lights. One of our favorites is Fuliranje, the street at the bottom of the funicular, where you will find the best food stands. Take the funicular up to the Upper Town and its Stross Promenade, where you'll find live music, wine, food and the city’s best vista. Be sure to visit at night, when the city is lit up.
See our blog for plenty more details.
Day 3
Day 3 - Your Second Full Day in Zagreb
Unique Museums
Ljubljana and Bled Private Day Trip
Lake Bled is known for its harmonious mix of beautiful nature, rich history, and genuine hospitality. We'll take you around the lake, to the only Slovenian island (in the middle of the lake) and to the medieval castle perched high on a cliff above the lake. Afterwards, the tour continues to Ljubljana, one of Europe's best-hidden gems.
Day 4
Day 4 - Traveling to Split by Private Car
A very full day is ahead of you so your private driver guide will pick you up from your accommodation in the morning. En route to Split, you'll stop for 4-5 hours to explore Plitvice Lakes National Park. Your driver will act as your guide in the park, taking you on a lovely hike. Admission is included.
2 Nights in Split
2 Nights in Split
2 Nights in Split
The Roman Emperor Diocletian made Split his home in the 4th Century AD, building a vast palace complex on the waterfront that stands to this day. In fact several of the accommodation options we offer in Split are nestled inside its ancient walls. These days there is an embankment in front of Diocletian's palace but the water used to go right up to the main wall. It's on this man-made strip of land that you'll find the Riva, a pedestrian promenade bustling with life. Split's UNESCO listed Old Town is contained within these old walls and is a pedestrian-only maze that it is quite easy, but fun, to get lost in. Who know what romantic hidden cafés you might find in one of the narrow streets and alleyways? To get the best out of your time in Split, however, we recommend taking a tour with a local guide. Split is very well connected for flights, with an international airport a half hour drive away and is a popular stopping point for our guests on their way between Dubrovnik and the islands of Hvar, Vis, or Korcula, all easily reached by a ferry from Split's port. If you base yourself in Split for a few days, you will find it is also perfect located for visits to some of Croatia's most stunning national parks.
The Roman Emperor Diocletian made Split his home in the 4th Century AD, building a vast palace complex on the waterfront that stands to this day. In fact several of the accommodation options we offer in Split are nestled inside its ancient walls. These days there is an embankment in front of Diocletian's palace but the water used to go right up to the main wall. It's on this man-made strip of land that you'll find the Riva, a pedestrian promenade bustling with life. Split's UNESCO listed Old Town is contained within these old walls and is a pedestrian-only maze that it is quite easy, but fun, to get lost in. Who know what romantic hidden cafés you might find in one of the narrow streets and alleyways? To get the best out of your time in Split, however, we recommend taking a tour with a local guide. Split is very well connected for flights, with an international airport a half hour drive away and is a popular stopping point for our guests on their way between Dubrovnik and the islands of Hvar, Vis, or Korcula, all easily reached by a ferry from Split's port. If you base yourself in Split for a few days, you will find it is also perfect located for visits to some of Croatia's most stunning national parks.
Day 4
Day 4 - Arrival in Split
Your driver will bring you straight to your accommodations upon arrival in Split.
The Right Place for Ancient Times
The best way to get to start out in Split is to spend time on the former grounds of Diocletian's Palace. Visit Peristil, the palace's main square, sit on its ancient stairs and just enjoy the remarkable view. Or take a seat at a cafe on the square to order a glass of local wine and take it easy.
Day 5
Day 5 - Your First Full Day in Split
Split Private Walking Tour
With a professional tour guide you will be led through the UNESCO-listed 1,700-year-old Diocletian's Palace, imagining what the life of Diocletian was like within the walls of his palace. During the tour you will see the Cathedral of St. Duje, one of the most beautiful cultural wonders on the Adriatic coast, as well as the ancient cellars, and Peristil in the center of the palace, the famous Golden Gate, and the hulking statue of Bishop Grgur Ninski. This is an excellent way to get to know Split and its fascinating history.
Split's Laid-Back Christmas Markets
Split’s laid-back population is fond of festivals, and Christmas and Advent are no exceptions. During Advent, the squares in and around Diocletian’s Palace fill with Christmas markets, as does the Riva promenade along the sea. The Riva may be decorated with processions of palm trees, but the nearby mountains are often snow-capped in December. Below them, the markets are full of traditional treats, from mulled wine to roasted chestnuts. For something more local, we recommend seeking out small doughnuts topped with powdered sugar and often flavored with raisins, rum, and citrus zest (Fritule), as well as gingerbread-like cookies made with honey and black pepper (Paprenjak).
See our blog for plenty more details.
Day 6
Day 6 - Traveling to Dubrovnik by Bus
You are heading south today to the fascinating city of Dubrovnik. You'll go by bus, taking a beautiful route along the Dalmatian coast. We'll arrange bus tickets based on your preferred departure time. If you'd like a little more comfort and flexibility, we can also arrange for a private transfer. Your driver will pick you up from your accommodation in Split and take you straight to your Dubrovnik accommodation. You can also take the opportunity to make a stop or small detour along the way, perhaps to Bosnia to visit Mostar and the famous bridge, or Ston, the oyster capital of Croatia. If you're happy to drive yourself we could arrange for a one-way rental which would allow you to make those same stops.
You can upgrade your transfer
Dubrovnik by Private Transfer with a Stop for Oyster Tasting
Upgrade for an additional cost
2 Nights in Dubrovnik
2 Nights in Dubrovnik
2 Nights in Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik offers an unusual blend of modern culture and ancient traditions. Marble-like polished limestone streets, a labyrinth of alleyways, and breathtaking architecture compose the unique atmosphere of the Old Town. You’ll experience a true variety of sightseeing, leisure, and outdoor adventures here. Dubrovnik’s most stunning feature is the 82-foot tall city wall which extends more than a mile. Game of Thrones fans will be in luck, as we offer a special tour to local set locations. King’s Landing never looked so good! There’s a rich selection of live performances for music lovers here, as concerts are performed daily, and in July and August the Dubrovnik Summer Festival of music, theatre and dance brings incredible performers from around the world. The nightlife is also exciting, with restaurants, cafes and bars that will keep you socializing until dawn. You’ll be staying in beautiful accommodation within short walking distance to all the major sites, so you’ll be able to sample a little of everything. But there are also several exciting day trips and cruises to enjoy. From kayaking through hidden coves to an authentic Croatian cooking class, vineyard tours, and trips as far afield as Montenegro, you’ll have more than enough to fill your itinerary.
Dubrovnik offers an unusual blend of modern culture and ancient traditions. Marble-like polished limestone streets, a labyrinth of alleyways, and breathtaking architecture compose the unique atmosphere of the Old Town. You’ll experience a true variety of sightseeing, leisure, and outdoor adventures here. Dubrovnik’s most stunning feature is the 82-foot tall city wall which extends more than a mile. Game of Thrones fans will be in luck, as we offer a special tour to local set locations. King’s Landing never looked so good! There’s a rich selection of live performances for music lovers here, as concerts are performed daily, and in July and August the Dubrovnik Summer Festival of music, theatre and dance brings incredible performers from around the world. The nightlife is also exciting, with restaurants, cafes and bars that will keep you socializing until dawn. You’ll be staying in beautiful accommodation within short walking distance to all the major sites, so you’ll be able to sample a little of everything. But there are also several exciting day trips and cruises to enjoy. From kayaking through hidden coves to an authentic Croatian cooking class, vineyard tours, and trips as far afield as Montenegro, you’ll have more than enough to fill your itinerary.
Day 6
Day 6 - Arrival in Dubrovnik
When you arrive at the Dubrovnik bus station, we will have someone waiting to bring you to your accommodation.
Night and the City
Discover the beauty of Dubrovnik while strolling down the cobbled streets at night and have a drink in one of the bars on the main street to just watch the world go by. Or visit the famous Buza Bar. With a name translating to "Hole in the Wall," Buza is not just a great bar, but a lovely location, with breathtaking views of incredible scenery at sunset.
Day 7
Day 7 - Your First Full Day in Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik Private Walking Tour
Today you’ll be exploring the elegant main streets and picturesque paths of Dubrovnik, with your own personal guide. This truly is one of the most beautiful medieval cities on the Adriatic. A walking tour of Old Town will take you to its elegant main street and most of its most important sights: The Franciscan Monastery, Onofrio’s Fountains, Sponza Palace, Orlando’s Column, the City Bell Tower, the Church of St. Blaise (the city’s patron saint), the Cathedral, and the Rector’s Palace, the seat of the former Republic. This is the perfect way to get oriented in the Old Town, and will give you the best insight into the rich history of Dubrovnik. You’ll learn what there is to see and do in Dubrovnik and how to get around.
Shop the Christmas Stradun
While many locals take a break at the end of the year, December is still a great time to visit Dubrovnik. They don't turn the waves off and take the impressive medieval walls down for winter! The temperatures remain quite pleasant if cool, and the ease of movement makes up for the fact that you'll find slightly fewer restaurants open, as the locals take advantage of the off-season to do some traveling of their own. The Christmas markets occupy the legendary Stradun, the old walled city's main thoroughfare.
See our blog for plenty more details.
Museum Day
Day 8
Day 8 - Departure Day
A driver will pick you up at your Dubrovnik accommodation and drop you off at the airport for your departing flight.
Here are all the services provided as part of your complete vacation package. See what every JayWay trip includes.
Please let us know if you'd like to upgrade any transfers or add any additional tours or excursions to your itinerary.
Zagreb
Split
Dubrovnik
The package excludes:
- Flights to and from Europe.
- Tips for Tour Guides, Drivers and Local Reps.
- Meals (other than breakfast if included in room rate and meals listed as included in food tours and excursions, unless explicitly stated otherwise).
- Parking fees for your Rental Car (if you are booking one with us) unless otherwise indicated. Some hotels provide free parking facilities.
- Travel Insurance. See the insurance link on our website
A JayWay vacation is more than the sum of its parts. Our team work tirelessly to ensure your experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Your trip is personalized to maximize your enjoyment. You're taken care of every step of the way.
A Travel Advisor who speaks your language
We will make sure that all your requirements and interests are taken into account in preparing your itinerary.A totally tailored itinerary for your vacation
Your trip is customized for you by an experienced trip planner and an expert on the region.A choice of hand-picked hotels and excursions
We've personally inspected and tested all the hotels and local tour providers we work with to ensure quality.Detailed pre-trip preparation to make the most of every day
Your Europe-based Tour Manager will be in touch by email and phone a month before you arrive to finalize timings.On-trip Concierge Service to smooth out any bumps in the road
Our local staff are at your service throughout your journey via the local prepaid cellphone which we provide.Personalized Guest Page to make sure you're not missing out
Packed with detailed information and recommendations curated by locals on the best things to do, see and eat.Glowing Reviews from Our Guests
4.9 / 5
Average of our Guest's Ratings of vacation packages including these destinations
Jenna & Matthew
Massachusetts
The response time was always EXTREMELY fast. JayWay Travel did it all, all we had to do was show up, which was really important to us for our honeymoon. We met true local people that we never would have gotten to know without JayWay.
The response time was always EXTREMELY fast. JayWay Travel did it all, all we had to do was show up, which was really important to us for our honeymoon. We met true local people that we never would have gotten to know without JayWay.
Visited : Croatia
Itinerary : Split, Hvar, Korcula, Dubrovnik
Rating :
Visited : Croatia
Itinerary : Split, Hvar, Korcula, Dubrovnik
Rating :
Greg & Sally
United Kingdom
Perfect planning and understanding our requirements with a great website and itinerary page. Fantastic customer service.
Perfect planning and understanding our requirements with a great website and itinerary page. Fantastic customer service.
Visited : Croatia
Itinerary : Dubrovnik, Korcula, Hvar, Split
Rating :
Visited : Croatia
Itinerary : Dubrovnik, Korcula, Hvar, Split
Rating :
Susan & Carole
California
JayWay Travel is the perfect travel company for me. JayWay Travel provided me with a wonderful balance between the assistance and support that reduced the travel chaos and yet still allowed for the independence and spontaneity I yearn to have while traveling.
JayWay Travel is the perfect travel company for me. JayWay Travel provided me with a wonderful balance between the assistance and support that reduced the travel chaos and yet still allowed for the independence and spontaneity I yearn to have while traveling.
Visited : Hungary, Czech Republic, Croatia
Itinerary : Budapest, Prague, Split, Hvar, Dubrovnik
Rating :
Visited : Hungary, Czech Republic, Croatia
Itinerary : Budapest, Prague, Split, Hvar, Dubrovnik
Rating :
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