Dalmatian Coast tours offer activity-rich itineraries filled with walking tours, old towns, vineyards, coastal cities, natural parks, elegant islands, and stunning scenery down the Croatian coastline. Dalmatian Coast guided tours are either Croatia-only or include stops in other Balkan nations, such as Bosnia and Montenegro. Stops on a tour can include the Roman ruins of Diocletian’s Palace in Split, the world-famous Walls of Dubrovnik, the aquamarine waterfalls of Krka National Park, and the bustling vineyards of Hvar Island. Tours are generally a combination of transportation by both land and sea, with most tours taking place on cruise ships.
The mere mention of the Dalmatian Coast invokes visions of red-tiled roofs, historic old towns, and some of the most beautiful coastline in the world. While towns up and down the Croatian coast include these amazing sites, there is much more to this Adriatic country than meets the eye.
The region of Dalmatia has changed over the years, but today is generally considered the 200-mile stretch of Croatia from Zadar to Dubrovnik. The area takes its name from the ancient Dalmatae tribe that inhabited southern Croatia.
Cities up and down the coast owe their origins to sea-faring empires. Influences from the Greeks, Ottomans, Croatians, and Venetians can be seen all over the coastal cities of Dalmatia. Which is one of the reasons why the old towns have such a rich architectural and cultural history.
Most Dalmatian Coast tours are cruises or a combination of bus and boat. Cruises typically set out from Split and make their way south to Dubrovnik. Longer trips may begin in Slovenia or Bosnia before traveling by bus or plane to Split and making their way down the coast of Croatia.
Croatian trips include day trips to old towns, national parks, wine tours, and plenty of free time to explore the famous lavender fields of Croatia. Croatia’s culture is intertwined with the sea and its diverse history makes the Dalmatian coast a bucket list destination for any traveler.
Common Dalmatian Coast Cruise & Tour Routes
Most Dalmatian Coast guided tours begin in Split and end in Dubrovnik. These tours typically include stops in the famous regional old towns such as Sibenik and Trogir, and day trips out to the islands of the Dalmatian archipelago.
Longer tours include other Balkan nations in the itinerary. These routes either begin or make stops in Slovenia, Montenegro, or Bosnia. Some of these countries were once considered part of the Dalmatian Coast and share similar cultural influences.
Most of the Croatian tours include a combination of transportation by both sea and land. Each of the major cities sitting in Dalmatia have bustling sea ports and marinas. But day trips into the mainland are done by bus. Some inland destinations include Krka National Park and Mostar, Bosnia.
Top Cities on the Dalmatian Coast
Each city on the Dalmatian Coast has a unique culture and history. Whether you enjoy history, food, architecture, or wine, you will be able to find it in one of these cities.
1. Split -The largest city in Dalmatia -- Split is the center for Croatian cruises. Split is a bustling modern, port city with roots deeply tied to the past. Split boasts a busy and beautiful promenade and a thriving cafe scene sprinkled throughout the small plazas and streets of the old town. Make sure to stop at Split’s most famous site, Diocletian’s Palace, when passing through.
2. Dubrovnik -While Dubrovnik may be the ending point for most tours, the city is one of the highlights of the entire trip. Dubrovnik’s medieval and romantic appearance has been drawing in travelers for years. Visitors can walk the famous Walls of Dubrovnik or spend the morning kayaking around the bay before enjoying the cafe scene of the old town.
3. Zadar -The farthest, northern major city of Dalmatia, Zadar is becoming a hotspot for visitors to Croatia. The longest, inhabited city in the the country has one of the largest old towns in the region and some of the most unique architectural features. Make sure to visit the Sea Organ and Monument to the Sun to see how architecture and science can create beautiful pieces of art.
4. Hvar Town -An island rich with lavender fields, history, and wine. Boasting one of the best climates in Croatia, Hvar is a mainstay on tours to the Dalmatian Coast. Situated only 38 miles from Split, Hvar is known for its beautiful old town and famous wine regions. Visitors can spend their day on Hvar visiting the countless olive tree fields or take a day trip to taste the famous wines of the island.
5. Sibenik -Being the main jumping off point for Krka National Park, Sibenik is a nice reprieve from the busy cities of Split and Zadar. Home to multiple fortresses, Sibenik is one of the most historically rich cities in region. Visitors can see some of the best views of the city and Adriatic from the these famous fortresses.
Top Activities on the Dalmatian Coast
Every day trip varies in activity level. Tours include active day trips like kayaking around Dubrovnik or relaxing strolls through old towns. There are activities offered for every level of the traveler.
1. Walls of Dubrovnik -One of the most famous sites in Dalmatia, the Walls of Dubrovnik are a must-see. Towering 83-feet high, the walls almost completely surround the old city of Dubrovnik. Visitors can walk the walls to see views of the Adriatic and of the old town. But be forewarned, the sun is strong and early morning is the best time to see these walls. Visitors with disabilities will have a difficult time walking the walls because there are no elevators and many sections of the walls include stairs.
2. Diocletian’s Palace -Diocletian’s Palace is one of the top attractions in Croatia. Built for the Roman Emperor Diocletian, the palace encompasses most of Split’s old town. The palace included guard houses and storage rooms that have now become homes and cafes. Set out on one of your day trips to learn more about one of the most important Roman ruins in all of Croatia.
3. Take a Wine Tour -Take part in one of Croatia’s favorite past times, wine. Croatia is known for its wine production, especially the islands. One of the best places to experience the wine scene is in Hvar. Travelers can enjoy a relaxing day taking in the wine culture of Hvar while enjoying the beautiful scenery of the island.
4. Sailing the islands -The islands are an integral part of any Dalmatian Coast trip. Islands such as Hvar, Borc, and Korcula are considered some of the most beautiful islands in all of Croatia. You can visit these islands and explore their historic old towns and learn about how the sea has helped develop these islands into the culturally-rich cities they are now.
5. Sea organ -Who has ever heard of a sea organ? Carved into the edge of Zadar’s old town, the Sea Organ is an architectural music piece that uses tubes and water to create music. You can kick back and enjoy gelato on the stairs above the tubes after your visit Zadar’s old town and listen to the music the sea creates as the water flows through the tubes.
What to Pack for Touring the Dalmatian Coast
While the Dalmatian Coast has one of the best climates in Europe, the first thing to remember to bring is layers. Many tours include days at sea or inland trips which can be cooler than days spent walking around the old towns. Make sure to bring a sweater or light jacket to help keep you warm.
Every traveler should invest in a good pair of walking shoes. Not only are the itineraries full of walking tours, but the cities in Dalmatia have cobblestone streets that do not go well with high heels or uncomfortable shoes.
There will be ample time to enjoy the lovely Croatian sun and beaches. Make sure to bring a swimsuit for the days you have free time. Also, the weather for most of the year is mild, but the summer months can be very warm. Shorts, dresses, and lightweight clothes are ideal attire.
The sun can be very harsh, especially during the summer months. Make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself on those day trips visiting Dubrovnik or Split.
Locals typically dress casual during the day, but dress up at night. Pack some dress pants or a nice sundress to wear at either cruise dinners or meals in the old towns. Dressing up a little at night will help you not stand out as a tourist.
Croatia has a high number of churches, so a shawl or sweater is a good item to pack to cover your shoulders before entering. Men should plan to pack some pants as shorts may not be allowed in some churches.
Like most of Europe, Croatia uses a different plugin then the U.S. Take an adapter with you for your electronics so you don’t miss out on any pictures or issues while you are away.
Food and Drink
Croatia has a strong food and drink culture. While there are traditional Croatian dishes everywhere, most of the Dalmatian Coast is heavily influenced by Italy. In every city, you will be able to find pasta, pizza, and gelato.
The sea has also influenced the culinary scene. Seafood is included on almost every menu with sardines, oysters, or clams being popular options.
With a heavy influence from Mediterranean countries, spices such as sage, thyme, and oregano can be seen in most dishes. Also, olive oil is a huge industry in Croatia. Olive trees can be seen throughout the coast and on many of the islands.
There is a strong wine culture in Croatia. Historians have found that zinfandel likely originated from the region around Split. You can find wine tours included on most tours with the majority being on the island of Hvar.
Dalmatian Coast Adventure Travel
There are plenty of activities for the adventure seeker in the Dalmatian Coast. With beautiful landscapes and sweeping bays, tours offers some of the best day trips for the active traveler.
If you are looking for water sports, Dubrovnik will be the best place for you. From Beach Bokar, just outside of the walls of the Old Town of Dubrovnik, travelers can join kayak tours of the bay. Tours usually last half a day and include kayaking the bay, discovering caves, and getting up close and personal with Lokrum Island, the mysterious island sitting just of off the coast.
Some tours offer bike riding or hikes during their day trips. Hikes are offered in Hvar through the lavender fields and there are walking tours of Diocletian’s Palace or the fortress of Kotor.
For sea lovers, some of the Dalmatian tours are on yachts. These yachts journey from island to island and frequent the busy ports of Split and Dubrovnik.
Touring the Islands off the Dalmatian Coast
The Dalmatian islands are a highlight for most visitors. Most tours include stops on their route from Split to Dubrovnik at the islands of Hvar, Brac, or Korcula. The islands are snapshots of Croatia’s history and regional importance.
Hvar is the longest of the islands in the region. With a rich wine and sea history, the old town is a bustling combination of locals and visitors. On the other hand, travelers looking for a more relaxed adventure, life on the island of Korcula is at a much slower pace. Many tours offer chances to see both ways of life.
Some of the smaller islands can not be reached by the larger cruise ships. They can only be reached by tours that are on yachts or smaller boats.
