day by Day Itinerary
Events listed are based upon availability and upon local variations of closing times and is subject to change.
GREAT BREAKFAST BUFFETS ARE INCLUDED AT THE HOTELS IN CROATIA. LUNCHES AND DINNERS ARE ON YOUR OWN WHERE YOU'D BE MORE PLEASED GETTING OUT AND ENJOYING AN OLD TOWN. OUR 4-STAR HOTELS ARE NEXT TO CHARMING OLD TOWNS. All meals are included aboard the yacht. we pay for your tips for porterage, drivers, and guides. but each Passenger should plan on Yacht gratuities of about $90 per person.
- Day 1 - September 11 (Monday) Depart USA to fly to Zagreb
NOTE: If you'd like a thorough experience of the nearby Plitvice Lakes, fly in a day or two earlier and we'll arrange for a day tour to Plitvice Lakes.
Days 2 & 3 - September 12 & 13 (Tuesday and Wednesday) Zagreb and transfer to Kotor via Dubrovnik.
On Tuesday (Sept. 10) we meet you at the airport and transfer you to the Zagreb Sheraton in downtown Zagreb. We advise sipping some caffeine to stay awake at least until 8:00 - 10:00 PM in order to sleep through the first night. The first few nights your body will try to revert back to home base, so melatonin and over-the-counter sleep aids for a while help avoid waking at 3:00 AM. Zagreb has a charming downtown with a distinctly European flavor and layout out with parks, tree-lined boulevard and majestic buildings you'd expect in such a capital.
On Wednesday we take you to the airport for a short flight to Dubrovnik where we board our deluxe coach for a beautiful bus ride to the amazing fjords of Kotor, Montenegro. The staggering beauty overwhelms. At the entrance of old town Kotor, a post World War 2 sign states, "What belongs to others we don't want. Ours we don't give." Kotor has history; lots of it. Our hotel is next to the old city and is quite nice. Great breakfasts included.
On Tuesday (Sept. 10) we meet you at the airport and transfer you to the Zagreb Sheraton in downtown Zagreb. We advise sipping some caffeine to stay awake at least until 8:00 - 10:00 PM in order to sleep through the first night. The first few nights your body will try to revert back to home base, so melatonin and over-the-counter sleep aids for a while help avoid waking at 3:00 AM. Zagreb has a charming downtown with a distinctly European flavor and layout out with parks, tree-lined boulevard and majestic buildings you'd expect in such a capital.
On Wednesday we take you to the airport for a short flight to Dubrovnik where we board our deluxe coach for a beautiful bus ride to the amazing fjords of Kotor, Montenegro. The staggering beauty overwhelms. At the entrance of old town Kotor, a post World War 2 sign states, "What belongs to others we don't want. Ours we don't give." Kotor has history; lots of it. Our hotel is next to the old city and is quite nice. Great breakfasts included.
Day 4 - September 14 (Thursday) Morning tour of Kotor fjords on speed boat
After breakfast, our guide's stories make this intricate and intriguing old fortress city come to life. Then, just across the street, board a speed boat for a guided tour of the lakes including the Rock Island and Church formed by fishermen who said they saw the Virgin Mary in a special lake location. They were instructed to build a lake there. They started dropping rocks into the lake at that spot. Others followed suit and eventually they had a rock island where they built a church.
Our speed boat takes us an amazing submarine base hollowed out by the Yugoslavian navy to hide their submarine's from the prying satellites of the USA and NATO. Sometimes a choir is there to adorn the acoustics. Then off to the famed Kotor Blue Grotto. If you have your swim suit on or else don't care if your clothes get wet, a dip in the Blue Grotto with its dazzling turquoise water is unforgettable. We then continue up the Adriatic Sea where we circle a famed fortress. At noon we stop in another classic old town of Perast where you can have lunch at one of the lakeside cafes. It's a day to remember.
After breakfast, our guide's stories make this intricate and intriguing old fortress city come to life. Then, just across the street, board a speed boat for a guided tour of the lakes including the Rock Island and Church formed by fishermen who said they saw the Virgin Mary in a special lake location. They were instructed to build a lake there. They started dropping rocks into the lake at that spot. Others followed suit and eventually they had a rock island where they built a church.
Our speed boat takes us an amazing submarine base hollowed out by the Yugoslavian navy to hide their submarine's from the prying satellites of the USA and NATO. Sometimes a choir is there to adorn the acoustics. Then off to the famed Kotor Blue Grotto. If you have your swim suit on or else don't care if your clothes get wet, a dip in the Blue Grotto with its dazzling turquoise water is unforgettable. We then continue up the Adriatic Sea where we circle a famed fortress. At noon we stop in another classic old town of Perast where you can have lunch at one of the lakeside cafes. It's a day to remember.
Day 5 - September 15 (Friday) Free day in Kotor
There is so much to do for nearly every person's physical capability. Some love the vigorous hiking to majestic views or mysterious caves. Other explore the towns and islands by special island taxis. Still others enjoy the cafe's and shops of the wharfs. Or a mixture of all three. The towns and islands can accommodate you! Besides the 360 degree grandeur of Kotor area, “must see” sites include:
1. The best preserved medieval old town in the Adriatic with UNESCO World Heritage Sites
2. Venetian Works of Defense from the 16th and 17th centuries.
3. Cathedral of St. Tryphon in the old town (built in 1166).
4. Ancient walls which stretch for 4.5 km (3 mi) directly above the city.
5. Welcome to Cat City – its official animal along with many cat stores, a cat museum, and Cats' Square.
6. Climb to the top of the medieval fortress. Take along some water. You'll need it, but the view is magnificent.
7. Join others in our group for a private bus tour of the old royal city in the mountain above Kotor.. Check out the blog post for more details.
There is so much to do for nearly every person's physical capability. Some love the vigorous hiking to majestic views or mysterious caves. Other explore the towns and islands by special island taxis. Still others enjoy the cafe's and shops of the wharfs. Or a mixture of all three. The towns and islands can accommodate you! Besides the 360 degree grandeur of Kotor area, “must see” sites include:
1. The best preserved medieval old town in the Adriatic with UNESCO World Heritage Sites
2. Venetian Works of Defense from the 16th and 17th centuries.
3. Cathedral of St. Tryphon in the old town (built in 1166).
4. Ancient walls which stretch for 4.5 km (3 mi) directly above the city.
5. Welcome to Cat City – its official animal along with many cat stores, a cat museum, and Cats' Square.
6. Climb to the top of the medieval fortress. Take along some water. You'll need it, but the view is magnificent.
7. Join others in our group for a private bus tour of the old royal city in the mountain above Kotor.. Check out the blog post for more details.
Day 6 - September 16 (Saturday) Morning coach to Dubrovnik for tour and board the ship.
You step immediately into the old "Game of Thrones" 15th century city under Venetian rule. Long regarded as the crown jewel of the Adriatic Sea, UNESCO listed Dubrovnik in its World Heritage Sites in recognition of its outstanding medieval architecture and fortified old town. No wonder HBO set Game of Thrones here. Star Wars: The Last Jedi, Robin Hood and even the Bollywood movie, Fan, were filmed here.
We board our yacht (your luggage will already be in your cabin) and enjoy dinner as we cruise by Dubrovnik and the Dalmatian coast and arrive at Sipano Island before dark. (We never cruise at night lest we miss the beautiful vistas!)
You step immediately into the old "Game of Thrones" 15th century city under Venetian rule. Long regarded as the crown jewel of the Adriatic Sea, UNESCO listed Dubrovnik in its World Heritage Sites in recognition of its outstanding medieval architecture and fortified old town. No wonder HBO set Game of Thrones here. Star Wars: The Last Jedi, Robin Hood and even the Bollywood movie, Fan, were filmed here.
We board our yacht (your luggage will already be in your cabin) and enjoy dinner as we cruise by Dubrovnik and the Dalmatian coast and arrive at Sipano Island before dark. (We never cruise at night lest we miss the beautiful vistas!)
Day 7 - September 17 (Sunday) Cruise to Sipano Island
Sipano is the nearby island and is the largest of the islands near Dubrovnik. Tradition has it that the naval Battle of Tauris during Caesar's Civil War happened here.
The island's population is 419 with two ports on the island, Sudurad (San Giorgio) in the east, and Šipanska Luka (Porto Gippana) in the west. The island is also famed for its numerous palm tree species that grow on the island.
We will hold an optional morning Devotional after breakfast.
This is a gentle island that is wonderful for casual walks as you explore the village, meet the people and explore its wonders that include two limestone crests, the higher (Velji Vrh, 243 m) in the northeast and the lower in the southeast surround a dolomite depression, in which olives, figs, vine, carob-trees, almond-trees, oranges and citrus fruit are cultivated.
Sipano is the nearby island and is the largest of the islands near Dubrovnik. Tradition has it that the naval Battle of Tauris during Caesar's Civil War happened here.
The island's population is 419 with two ports on the island, Sudurad (San Giorgio) in the east, and Šipanska Luka (Porto Gippana) in the west. The island is also famed for its numerous palm tree species that grow on the island.
We will hold an optional morning Devotional after breakfast.
This is a gentle island that is wonderful for casual walks as you explore the village, meet the people and explore its wonders that include two limestone crests, the higher (Velji Vrh, 243 m) in the northeast and the lower in the southeast surround a dolomite depression, in which olives, figs, vine, carob-trees, almond-trees, oranges and citrus fruit are cultivated.
Day 8 - September 18 (Monday) Mljet Island (pronounced Me-yet)
When the apostle Paul shipwrecked on an island, Mljet became "The Place." A scenic wonderland, with a quiet small town where villagers anxiously meet the yachts. You are welcome here, just as Paul was.
It's a great place to rent a bike or an electric bike and explore the two "lakes" nearby. (They're actually inlets.) With no airport, only occasional ferries, and charming villages all around, it’s a tranquil delight. A two-lane paved road runs throughout the island.
In the afternoon, our captain and crew take us to a tranquil bay where the crystal clear waters cast a turquoise luminescence so delightful for swimming. You can see the Sea bottom 30 feet below! We've often been told by some guests that "we're not really swimmers" but after seeing the beautiful water, they succumb and soon jump in or use the kayaks, wave runner and other water sport toys.
When the apostle Paul shipwrecked on an island, Mljet became "The Place." A scenic wonderland, with a quiet small town where villagers anxiously meet the yachts. You are welcome here, just as Paul was.
It's a great place to rent a bike or an electric bike and explore the two "lakes" nearby. (They're actually inlets.) With no airport, only occasional ferries, and charming villages all around, it’s a tranquil delight. A two-lane paved road runs throughout the island.
In the afternoon, our captain and crew take us to a tranquil bay where the crystal clear waters cast a turquoise luminescence so delightful for swimming. You can see the Sea bottom 30 feet below! We've often been told by some guests that "we're not really swimmers" but after seeing the beautiful water, they succumb and soon jump in or use the kayaks, wave runner and other water sport toys.
Day 9 - September 19 (Tuesday) Korčula Island: 1,864 & 1657 ft peaks
The old town or Stari Grad is one of the most unusual in all the islands. We love it. No one wants to leave! It's designed in a fish-bone pattern that blocks out cold winds and entices cooling breezes. It has the best shopping in the Adriatic.
According to legend, Trojan hero Aeneas arrived in the 12th century BC. Check out the numerous old stone buildings and fortresses left behind. Its ideal climate is perfect for agriculture and the sea teems with fish. They called it "Black Corfu" after their homeland and the dense pinewoods.
The island is covered with Mediterranean flora including extensive pine forests. The Moreška sword dance, stonemasonry, painting and sculpture arts are strong traditions. This is proported to be the birthplace of Marco Polo, so that’s another site to keep your eyes out for when you walk to the top of the tower in town.
The old town or Stari Grad is one of the most unusual in all the islands. We love it. No one wants to leave! It's designed in a fish-bone pattern that blocks out cold winds and entices cooling breezes. It has the best shopping in the Adriatic.
According to legend, Trojan hero Aeneas arrived in the 12th century BC. Check out the numerous old stone buildings and fortresses left behind. Its ideal climate is perfect for agriculture and the sea teems with fish. They called it "Black Corfu" after their homeland and the dense pinewoods.
The island is covered with Mediterranean flora including extensive pine forests. The Moreška sword dance, stonemasonry, painting and sculpture arts are strong traditions. This is proported to be the birthplace of Marco Polo, so that’s another site to keep your eyes out for when you walk to the top of the tower in town.
Day 10 - September 20 (Wednesday)Vis Island (pronounced Wees)
The 35-square-mile island welcomes visitors with 17th-century Venetian architecture, azure rocky beaches, and laid-back vibes.
In Vis town, our guide shows you parts of the ancient city walls along with a thermae (public baths). On a small peninsula, St. Jerome’s Church and Monastery is built over an ancient Roman theater. The World Wildlife Fund declared Vis is one of the ten best-preserved islands in the Mediterranean.
You may be interested to know that Momma Mia: Here We Go Again was filmed on the Vis town of Komiza and the beaches of Stiniva. The pebbled beach was named the most beautiful in Europe in 2016 but a variety of beaches welcome some beautiful possibilities. Just remember the local saying, "pomalo, pomalo" (slowly, slowly) and you'll be fine. Looking forward to a laid back day of exploring this unique island.
Be sure to grab a water taxi and explore the famous Blue Grotto on the island of Biševo, just off Vis. It glows an incredible blue each day around noon. Keep an eye out for seals that often play near the entrance.
The 35-square-mile island welcomes visitors with 17th-century Venetian architecture, azure rocky beaches, and laid-back vibes.
In Vis town, our guide shows you parts of the ancient city walls along with a thermae (public baths). On a small peninsula, St. Jerome’s Church and Monastery is built over an ancient Roman theater. The World Wildlife Fund declared Vis is one of the ten best-preserved islands in the Mediterranean.
You may be interested to know that Momma Mia: Here We Go Again was filmed on the Vis town of Komiza and the beaches of Stiniva. The pebbled beach was named the most beautiful in Europe in 2016 but a variety of beaches welcome some beautiful possibilities. Just remember the local saying, "pomalo, pomalo" (slowly, slowly) and you'll be fine. Looking forward to a laid back day of exploring this unique island.
Be sure to grab a water taxi and explore the famous Blue Grotto on the island of Biševo, just off Vis. It glows an incredible blue each day around noon. Keep an eye out for seals that often play near the entrance.
Day 11 - September 21 (Thursday) Hvar Island
Named the 4th most beautiful island in the world by a leading travel guide, we trust you'll declare the same conclusion. Hvar town is a Mediterranean dream, full of rustic cobblestoned streets, stunning beaches, and ancient history.
Fortica - Looming high above the town and lit with a golden glow at night, this medieval castle occupies the site of an ancient Illyrian settlement dating from before 500 BC. The views looking down over Hvar and the Pakleni Islands are magnificent, and well worth the trudge up through the old-town streets. Once you clear the town walls it’s a gently sloping meander up the tree-shaded hillside to the fortress – or you can drive to the very top (100KN in a taxi). Inside there’s a collection of ancient amphorae recovered from the seabed, and a terrace cafe.
The Arsenal - Mentioned in Venetian documents as ‘the most beautiful and the most useful building in the whole of Dalmatia’, once served as a repair and refitting station for war galleons. Its present incarnation was built in 1611 to replace a building destroyed by Ottomans. Upstairs is an atmospheric theatre decorated with frescos and baroque loggias. Opened in 1612, it’s said to be the first theatre in Europe to have admitted plebeians and aristocrats alike. In 2016, the remains of a 1st-century Roman building were discovered beneath the floor.
And this is the just the beginning of what there is to explore in Hvar, the island and Hvar, the town. Read more at: www.lonelyplanet.com/croatia/dalmatia/hvar-island
Named the 4th most beautiful island in the world by a leading travel guide, we trust you'll declare the same conclusion. Hvar town is a Mediterranean dream, full of rustic cobblestoned streets, stunning beaches, and ancient history.
Fortica - Looming high above the town and lit with a golden glow at night, this medieval castle occupies the site of an ancient Illyrian settlement dating from before 500 BC. The views looking down over Hvar and the Pakleni Islands are magnificent, and well worth the trudge up through the old-town streets. Once you clear the town walls it’s a gently sloping meander up the tree-shaded hillside to the fortress – or you can drive to the very top (100KN in a taxi). Inside there’s a collection of ancient amphorae recovered from the seabed, and a terrace cafe.
The Arsenal - Mentioned in Venetian documents as ‘the most beautiful and the most useful building in the whole of Dalmatia’, once served as a repair and refitting station for war galleons. Its present incarnation was built in 1611 to replace a building destroyed by Ottomans. Upstairs is an atmospheric theatre decorated with frescos and baroque loggias. Opened in 1612, it’s said to be the first theatre in Europe to have admitted plebeians and aristocrats alike. In 2016, the remains of a 1st-century Roman building were discovered beneath the floor.
And this is the just the beginning of what there is to explore in Hvar, the island and Hvar, the town. Read more at: www.lonelyplanet.com/croatia/dalmatia/hvar-island
Day 12 - September 22 (Friday) Brac Island
Enjoy reading why famous trekkers love Brac Island with the highest peak of any Dalmatian island. https://www.earthtrekkers.com/love-brac-island-croatia-zlatni-rat-beach/
We love Brac as well. We've driven all around the island and still barely caught the wonders. Olive groves, olive oil museum with lunch, olive press factory, great beaches, charming towns, and friendly people. Travel by vans to see the faces you select of this large island. Don't miss a lunch at the Olive Museum.
Enjoy reading why famous trekkers love Brac Island with the highest peak of any Dalmatian island. https://www.earthtrekkers.com/love-brac-island-croatia-zlatni-rat-beach/
We love Brac as well. We've driven all around the island and still barely caught the wonders. Olive groves, olive oil museum with lunch, olive press factory, great beaches, charming towns, and friendly people. Travel by vans to see the faces you select of this large island. Don't miss a lunch at the Olive Museum.
Day 13 - September 23 (Saturday) Disembark the yacht and tour Split then head to our hotel in Sibenik on the Dalmatian coast.
We'll enjoy what Emperor Diocletian enjoyed when he built his grand estates between Split and Sibenik. Split is the second largest city in Croatia, and is a bustling port for tourists anxious to visit the many Dalmatian Islands.
Our guide shows you the famous Diocletian Palace, and Pjaca Square, home to the city’s town hall. Admire stunning architecture from the Roman and Venetian eras. The Old Town also has unique restaurants and cafes where you can unwind and enjoy a cool drink. If you want to mingle with the locals, head for the Fish Market – it occupies a Secession-style building, which makes for impressive photos.
We'll enjoy what Emperor Diocletian enjoyed when he built his grand estates between Split and Sibenik. Split is the second largest city in Croatia, and is a bustling port for tourists anxious to visit the many Dalmatian Islands.
Our guide shows you the famous Diocletian Palace, and Pjaca Square, home to the city’s town hall. Admire stunning architecture from the Roman and Venetian eras. The Old Town also has unique restaurants and cafes where you can unwind and enjoy a cool drink. If you want to mingle with the locals, head for the Fish Market – it occupies a Secession-style building, which makes for impressive photos.
Then on to Sibenik on the Adriatic. Its old town is the oldest city town in Croatia with a scenic medieval town surrounded by four fortresses. Behind the walls discover very old churches and charming narrow stone streets. Our hotel, The Hotel Bellevue, is on the water's edge and steps away from "starigrad" or the old town. It is a family owned 4-star hotel. Our friend Magda, is the hotel manager. Four years ago her husband built the hotel that his partner designed.
Only five cities in the world have two UNESCO monuments. Sibenik is one of them. 16th century Cathedral St. Jacob is a true architectural masterpiece that took 100+ years to build. Very few fortresses are as picturesque and elegant as the Renaissance Fortress of St. Nicholas, located at the entrance to the wonderful St. Anthony channel, which serves as the door of Sibenik to the open sea. Built in the 16th century as a defense from Turkish attacks from the sea, it is one of the most attractive fortifications on the Adriatic Coast. There's time to take a boat ride out to the channel. Enjoy the free time.
Only five cities in the world have two UNESCO monuments. Sibenik is one of them. 16th century Cathedral St. Jacob is a true architectural masterpiece that took 100+ years to build. Very few fortresses are as picturesque and elegant as the Renaissance Fortress of St. Nicholas, located at the entrance to the wonderful St. Anthony channel, which serves as the door of Sibenik to the open sea. Built in the 16th century as a defense from Turkish attacks from the sea, it is one of the most attractive fortifications on the Adriatic Coast. There's time to take a boat ride out to the channel. Enjoy the free time.
Day 14 - September 24 (Sunday) Church in Zadar and Krka Park
Zadar is the oldest Croatian city. It has a small Latter-day Saint congregation that has welcomed us. It was the home town of Kresimir Cosic, the first Elder in Yugoslavia of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and BYU basketball star. Recently, the branch celebrated the 50th Anniversary of Elder Cosic helping to set up the Church in Croatia. It has a Latter-day Saint congregation that we’ll meet with for church services and you’ll have a chance to meet the members in their meetinghouse.
To the east of Zadar is Krka National Park, a true ecological treasure of forests, lakes and amazingly different waterfalls. In the park we board the Krka bus to take us to the most famous Falls. Enjoy strolling the grounds and walkways. Our private coach takes us back to Sibenik where you can roam the old town and enjoy free time and dinner on the esplanade.
Zadar is the oldest Croatian city. It has a small Latter-day Saint congregation that has welcomed us. It was the home town of Kresimir Cosic, the first Elder in Yugoslavia of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and BYU basketball star. Recently, the branch celebrated the 50th Anniversary of Elder Cosic helping to set up the Church in Croatia. It has a Latter-day Saint congregation that we’ll meet with for church services and you’ll have a chance to meet the members in their meetinghouse.
To the east of Zadar is Krka National Park, a true ecological treasure of forests, lakes and amazingly different waterfalls. In the park we board the Krka bus to take us to the most famous Falls. Enjoy strolling the grounds and walkways. Our private coach takes us back to Sibenik where you can roam the old town and enjoy free time and dinner on the esplanade.
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Day 15 - September 25 (Monday) Free Day in Sibenik ... So much to explore:
1, Book a cruise exploring the nearby fortress island and other gems.
2. Climb to either or both monasteries/fortresses high above Sibenik.
3. Explore old Sibenik -- charming winding streets with shops galore.
4. Return to Krka Park for more explorations. And local Roman ruins near it.
5. Rent a car yourself or with another couple (very reasonable) and drive to some other coastal villages.
1, Book a cruise exploring the nearby fortress island and other gems.
2. Climb to either or both monasteries/fortresses high above Sibenik.
3. Explore old Sibenik -- charming winding streets with shops galore.
4. Return to Krka Park for more explorations. And local Roman ruins near it.
5. Rent a car yourself or with another couple (very reasonable) and drive to some other coastal villages.
Day 16 September 26 (Tuesday) Head north to Zagreb!
Or Skip to the Southern Italy Extension below
After breakfast we head north to the Zagreb, Croatia's capital city, situated in a large valley surrounded by towering mountains. We'll enjoy a guided tour of the city before going to our 4 star Sheraton Hotel. Explore the old town.
Day 17 September 27 (Wednesday) Home to the USA
Our morning shuttle takes you to the airport for your flight home.
Or Skip to the Southern Italy Extension below
After breakfast we head north to the Zagreb, Croatia's capital city, situated in a large valley surrounded by towering mountains. We'll enjoy a guided tour of the city before going to our 4 star Sheraton Hotel. Explore the old town.
Day 17 September 27 (Wednesday) Home to the USA
Our morning shuttle takes you to the airport for your flight home.
Day 16 OPTION: September 26 (Tuesday) 9-Day Southern Italy Extension: Rather than going north to Zagreb, the group that chooses the extension heads south to historic Ston then to Dubrovnik for extra "exploring" time and dinner. We take the 9 PM sleeper-cabin ferry to Bari, Italy arriving at 8 AM. Coach tour of southern Italy with overnights in charming Cisternino in the high hills, across the Italian mountains to the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento, Isle of Capri, Pompeii, Naples, Rome Temple and Rome. $$$ January Special: $2,495 reduced to $2,195. Save $300!
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Day 1 - September 26 (Tuesday) Ston, Dubrovnik, and the Ferry
After a wonderful breakfast, the "extension to Southern Italy" head south to Dubrovnik. About 2.5 hours later, we get to stop in historic Ston with it's unique castle wall and beautiful harbor. The wall protected the towns salt mines, the equivalent hundreds of years ago to gold mines...they were that valuable. After a guided tour of the longest stone wall in Europe and the picturesque village, you can explore the harbor and town and grab a gelato and other local lunch treats.
After a wonderful breakfast, the "extension to Southern Italy" head south to Dubrovnik. About 2.5 hours later, we get to stop in historic Ston with it's unique castle wall and beautiful harbor. The wall protected the towns salt mines, the equivalent hundreds of years ago to gold mines...they were that valuable. After a guided tour of the longest stone wall in Europe and the picturesque village, you can explore the harbor and town and grab a gelato and other local lunch treats.
Then it's on to Dubrovnik where we get to see more of that historic city. Pick your adventure. Perhaps:
...walk the 1.25 mile circuit of city wall to enjoy the fantastic views over the old town’s terracotta rooftops or
...visit the aquarium or
....ride the cable car to view the city from above or
... dine at one of the many restaurants of this charming city.
About 8 PM, our bus takes us aboard the ferry for our overnight trip to Southern Italy. You’ll have a private cabin and bathroom so be sure to pack an overnight bag to keep with you. Your main luggage will stay on the bus that will be on the ferry with us.
...walk the 1.25 mile circuit of city wall to enjoy the fantastic views over the old town’s terracotta rooftops or
...visit the aquarium or
....ride the cable car to view the city from above or
... dine at one of the many restaurants of this charming city.
About 8 PM, our bus takes us aboard the ferry for our overnight trip to Southern Italy. You’ll have a private cabin and bathroom so be sure to pack an overnight bag to keep with you. Your main luggage will stay on the bus that will be on the ferry with us.
Day 2 - September 27 (Wednesday) Bari, Cisternino and Taranto
We arrive in Bari, Italy this morning. We see some of the sites from this ancient city made famous during the Greek conquests 2,500 years ago, followed by Roman legions fortifying the city from future invasions, and then becoming a prime seat of the bishop of Bari. More invasions conquered the city from northern and eastern countries. On we go, heading into the nearby hills to the olive orchard and other agriculture vistas to one of the most picturesque Italian villages -- Cisternino where we have lunch and roam the winding little streets shown to the left. These "streets" are mere walkways to explore and meet the friendly town folks. Unique to this region are small hobbit-like houses, with white walls and pointy cone-shaped houses called "trulli houses". Just an hour or so away, we stop in Taranto by the sea to spend the night. Day 3 - September 28 (Thursday) Across Italy to the Amalfi Coast Along the way our coach climbs the ancient hills and mountains of southern Italy with its quaint towns like Potenza. Our guide explains the history as we go. It only takes about 4 hours to reach the port city of Salerno, which made modern history as the place where the Allies of World War 2 launched their invasion to recapture Italy. We turn north and drive the picturesque Amalfi coast to our luxury hotel in the amazingly beautiful village of Amalfi. Our guide recommends various venues including the harbor, opera theater and just the winding streets overlooking the beautiful bay. Or rent a boat and explore the harbor. Your time to enjoy the rest of the day and tomorrow. Day 4 - September 29 (Friday) Amalfi and Sorrento More time to explore Amalfi. In the afternoon we head up the Amalfi coast to Sorrento. You'll understand why the song "Come Back to Sorrento" was written. Day 5 - September 30 (Saturday) Pompeii Today we find out why the once prosperous and decadent port city of Pompeii has intrigued world travelers for centuries. Pompeii exploration is a bucket list event. Mighty Mt. Vesuvius towers above to make the dark destruction of Pompeii ever on your mind. Day 6 - October 1 (Sunday) Church and Isle of Capri Our bus takes us to the Sorrento Branch of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints which begins services at 10 AM. It's about 45 minutes from our hotel. After we've had a chance to visit the local members, we take a ferry to the Isle of Capri -- the favorite island of the Caesars. The rough but lush landscape of Capri is cooled by a daily sea breeze. Optional excursions, cable car rides and boat tours of the Blue Grotto are available. Day 7 - October 2 (Monday) Rome: Roman Antiquities After a good breakfast we head to Rome, one of the most visited and worthy of touring cities in the world. We'll stop for lunch during our visits to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, and the Hippodrome, If you don't think you can see what you want in two days, extend your flight time (in advance) and stay as long as you wish. Day 8 - October 3 (Tuesday) Rome: Vatican Enjoy a day exploring the Vatican, the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica. To see what you'd like to see beyond this, take a Hop-On, Hop-Off bus for maximum flexibility. Day 9 - October 4 (Wednesday) Rome Temple If you'd like to join Mark and Liz for a session at the LDS Temple in Rome, we'll help you get an appointment and transportation there. Depending upon the desires of the group, if enough people want to tour the fascinating Visitor's Center and a temple session, we'll have our coach take us there and back, Day 10 - October 5 (Thursday) Home or Extend Depart for the USA or extend your stay as fits your best plans. |
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