The stunning translucent waters of southern Croatia offer one of the most wonderfully enticing seascapes from which to embark on an island-hopping cruise of the Adriatic. Croatia cruises offer everything from the architecture-rich Dalmatian city of Split to the beach-jewelled islands of Hvar and Brač, where you’ll explore stunning harbours, pristine bays, old walled cities and world-class restaurants.
Read on for our 6 favourite islands and cities to visit on a Croatian Islands Cruise.
Split
The stunning UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace forms the central attraction in Split. The ancient Roman monument takes up about 50% of the old city and is filled with a superb and lively collection of bars, restaurants and shops as well as a veritable maze of underground temples and walkways from where it’s possible to see the original foundations of the palace. The rest of Split is a pleasing cocktail of history and modernity – with historical monuments, architectural curiosities and fantastic restaurants sitting alongside tranquil beaches and a vibrant nightlife that encompasses everything from all-night clubs to al fresco street parties amongst the ambience of the city streets.
Brac
With its world-famous beaches and stunning villages, Brac is a favourite amongst those indulging in small ship cruises in Croatia. The horn-shaped Zlatni Rat beach that curves into the Adriatic at Bol is the most renowned of the island’s beaches, while the idyllic bay at Vela Farska a little further west is one of our favourites with its pebbly beach and quiet, away from the crowds feel. There’s a delightful collection of towns and villages to explore on Brac, as well as mile upon mile of beautiful countryside lush with pine forests, rosemary fields and vibrant fields of flowers.