Culinary and Cultural Odyssey of the Adriatic

Day 1 - Split

Split, Croatia: Split's ancient core is a spectacular and unusual sight that merits a visit. At its heart lies the palace of Roman emperor Diocletian, built in the 3rd century AD as a retirement home. Diocletian, born in nearby Salona, became emperor at 40 and later retired to his homeland. Following his death, the octagonal mausoleum within the palace walls became Split's magnificent cathedral. In 615, refugees from sacked Salona found sanctuary within these walls, transforming the palace into an urban centre. By the 11th century, the settlement expanded beyond the ancient walls. During Venetian rule (1420–1797), Split thrived as an Adriatic trading hub, evidenced by splendid Renaissance palaces. The Habsburgs fostered connections to Central Europe by building a railway line. Post-WWII, Tito's era saw rapid urban growth. Today, the historic centre of Split is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 2 - Mljet Island

Mljet Island, Croatia: Renowned for its natural beauty, Mljet Island is often hailed as one of Croatia's most alluring islands. Lush vegetation, shimmering lakes, and tranquil beaches envelop the island, creating an idyllic environment. Beyond its landscapes, Mljet is steeped in legend, reputed as the home of Calypso, who held Odysseus captive. The island's national park offers hiking and cycling paths, surrounded by the embrace of unspoiled nature and quiet bays.

Day 3 - Korčula

Korčula, Croatia: Off Croatia's coast lies Korčula, celebrated as one of the Adriatic's most beautiful islands. With 3,000 hours of sunshine annually, it offers a Mediterranean paradise. The main town of the same name is a well-preserved medieval wonder and serves as a cultural hub. Founded by Greek settlers, Korčula thrived as a major trading post. The island is linked to world traveller Marco Polo, allegedly born here. Its residents, known for seafaring, shipbuilding, and artistry, still carry traditions like the Moreska dance. Visitors revel in the medieval charm and numerous attractions, including the City Museum and the Bishop's Treasury.

Day 4 - Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik, Croatia: Dubrovnik's first sight is unforgettable. Situated 135 miles from Split, it ranks among the world's most stunning fortified cities. The massive stone ramparts and fortress towers curve around a tiny harbour, framing orange-tiled roofs and elegant structures. Once an independent republic (1358-1808), Dubrovnik thrived during the 16th-century golden age. Despite a 1667 earthquake that razed many Gothic and Renaissance creations, its walls endured, leading to a Baroque reconstruction. The city, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, bears little trace of damage from conflicts that punctuated its history.

Day 5 - Kotor

Kotor, Montenegro: Nestled between mountains, Kotor rests hidden within Europe's most southerly fjord. With its authentic medieval charm and fewer crowds, it rivals Dubrovnik in allure. Enclosed within impressive defensive walls is a labyrinth of cobbled streets lined by historic stone buildings. Kotor's rich past as an economic and cultural powerhouse is evident in its architecture, influenced by Venetian and later rulers. Today, the town and its surrounding villages offer breathtaking bay vistas and quieter spots away from tourist traffic.

Day 6 - Hvar Island

Hvar Island, Croatia: Known as the "sunniest island in the Adriatic," Hvar boasts an average of 2,724 sunshine hours yearly. This Croatian gem offers visitors more than splendid weather, luring them with its guarantee of refund for a week of snow. Besides its climatic appeal, Hvar is a vibrant destination with beautiful landscapes, rich history, and a thriving nightlife.

Day 7 - Šibenik

Šibenik, Croatia: Šibenik's Gothic-Renaissance cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands proudly near the seafront. With winding cobbled streets and terra-cotta rooftops leading to a hilltop fortress, the city opens up to Croatia's medieval quarter. Despite economic downturns following the Croatian war for independence, Šibenik serves as a gateway to Krka National Park's enchanting waterfalls.

Day 8 - Zadar

Zadar, Croatia: For over a millennium, Zadar was the capital of Dalmatia. Often overlooked by those heading to Split or Dubrovnik, it offers more than 73,000 residents and a vibrant Old Town. Connected by a long peninsula, the town combines Roman ruins, medieval churches, and cultural sites. Historically a key trading centre for over 800 years, Zadar's Italian heritage lingers in its architecture and language. Despite wartime destructions, Zadar remains a city to marvel at, with educational English signs guiding visitors around diverse architectural sites.