Wanderful Croatia
Highlights
Split – Dreamy coastal city and private boat island hopping
Balkan Countryside – Vineyards, gardens, and a UNESCO-protected cooking demonstration
Plitvice Lakes National Park -Explore the UNESCO-listed gem, wandering the trails of a thousand cascades
Opatija and Istrian Peninsula – The playground of Habsburg royalty, the Croatian Riviera with gladiator tunnels, olive estates, and rustic outdoor cooking class
Trakošćan Castle – 13th-century neo-Gothic fairytale fortress perched above a serene lake with optional bike rides and paddle boats
Periquito Adventures & Travel believes in creating high-touch, seamless, soul-stirring journeys where you can simply relax and immerse yourself in the history, beauty, cuisine and local culture from start to finish.
Susie Langley has personally curated this trip just for you, and has done everything possible to ensure that more than 90% of the tour costs are baked into the package price. So, with the exception of your international flights, some meals, and a tip here or there… you can keep your wallet stored away!
Sept 14 – Arrival in Split | Welcome to the Dalmatian Coast!
Upon arriving at the small and efficient Split airport, you’ll be greeted by our friendly, English-speaking chauffeur who will whisk you away to the beautiful Santa Lucia Heritage Hotel… an absolute jewel tucked within the ancient walls of Diocletian’s Palace.
This evening, we will meet in the lobby and then walk together to Bajamonti, a beloved local restaurant just a short walk from our hotel. There, we will enjoy a lively and delicious Welcome Dinner and a toast to the adventure ahead.
Sept 15 — Island Hopping Private Boat Exploration
Today we explore the islands off the coast of Split in our own private boat. Swim in turquoise coves, wander tiny villages, and enjoy a leisurely lunch on one of the islands. We’ll return to the mainland in the afternoon, and the balance of the day is yours for a bit of self-exploration around Split. Enjoy the leisure time!
Sept 16 — From Old Split to the Balkan Countryside
This morning, we’ll be joined by a fantastic local guide for a private walking tour through the ancient corridors of Diocletian’s Palace and Old Split. You’ll hear vivid tales of Roman emperors, empires, and everyday life within these storied walls.
Then its time to leave seaside behind and dive into the heart of the Croatian countryside for something truly special. Tucked amongst vineyards, gardens, and ancient fig trees stands a charming family-run farmstead. We’ll be welcomed like old friends and treated to a fascinating cooking demonstration of a Unesco-protected, centuries-old recipe that will become our delicious, hyper-local lunch. This experience is sure to tantalize your tastebuds and have you grinning from ear to ear. Come hungry. Leave happy.
With full bellies we’ll say so-long to this amazing family and hit the road again! Next stop? We’ll check into our delicious accommodations next to mesmerizing Plitvice Lakes National Park.
Sept 17 — Plitvice Lakes National Park
Welcome to the elegant seaside town of Opatija, once the playground of Habsburg royalty. After checking in to your luxurious accommodations, be sure to get outside for a stroll the Lungomare promenade. Do your best to find The Maiden and the Seagull. Breathe in the sea air as you let yourself completely unwind in this graceful coastal gem.
Sept 18 — Vintage Vibes & Seaside Strides | Croatia’s Riviera
This morning, we’ll be joined by a fantastic local guide for a private walking tour through the ancient corridors of Diocletian’s Palace and Old Split. You’ll hear vivid tales of Roman emperors, empires, and everyday life within these storied walls.
Then its time to leave seaside behind and dive into the heart of the Croatian countryside for something truly special. Tucked amongst vineyards, gardens, and ancient fig trees stands a charming family-run farmstead. We’ll be welcomed like old friends and treated to a fascinating cooking demonstration of a Unesco-protected, centuries-old recipe that will become our delicious, hyper-local lunch. This experience is sure to tantalize your tastebuds and have you grinning from ear to ear. Come hungry. Leave happy.
With full bellies we’ll say so-long to this amazing family and hit the road again! Next stop? We’ll check into our delicious accommodations next to mesmerizing Plitvice Lakes National Park.
Sept 19 — Gladiators, Golden Elixirs & Great Grub | Istria
Today we time-travel to the Istrian Peninsula, where ancient empires and culinary traditions collide in a most delicious way. Our day begins in Pula, home to one of the most beautifully preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world.
Next, we trade chariots for charcuterie as we head to a famed olive estate for an incredible tasting school. You’ll learn the inside scoop about this golden elixir, and how the industry has been pulling the wool over your eyes for decades!
Finally, we’re headed into farmland once more for a RUSTIC, FANTASTIC outdoor cooking class with an amazing chef and sommelier! The wine never stops flowing and the food is unbelievable! Suffice to say it’s a great day to have our own chauffeur!
Sept 20 — Trakošćan Castle & Farewell
On this final full day of our time in Croatia, we’re heading to one of her most enchanting hidden gems—Trakošćan Castle, a 13th-century neo-Gothic fairy-tale fortress perched atop a serene lake and surrounded by lush parkland. We hope this day lets you unwind and prepare to return to “reality” tomorrow. Please make the most of the afternoon and evening in this gorgeous setting.
If you don’t feel like an official tour of the castle, check out the other things you might want to explore…
- Lakeside strolls: Follow shaded paths around the mirrored waters—perfect for gentle walks, reflection, or even a cozy picnic among the trees.
- Bike rides or paddle boating: Rent a paddle boat on the lake or cycle around the park’s scenic loops—ideal for active exploration and fresh-air bliss crodestinations.com.
- Local refreshments: Pop into a nearby café or family-run tavern to sample regional cheese, pastries, or simple village fare—perfect with a cup of linden tea or local wine.
- Photography and forest walks: For nature lovers, woodland trails wind into the surrounding hills—sprinkled with wildflowers, birdlife, and quiet viewpoints over the park and castle.
We’ll gather together again for a final dinner as a group (LOCATION TBD) around 7:30 pm. Surely a toast will be made to an amazing adventure together and the bonds will be forged between all participants of Wanderful Croatia 2026!
Sept 21 — A Fond Farewell | Transfers to Zagreb Airport
The Zagreb Airport will be your final stop on this grand adventure!
IMPORTANT NOTES:
- Susie will need to help the group coordinate their departures from Zagreb airport on September 21st. Should you choose to stay on or wish to go to the airport at a time outside of the group transfer, you will need to arrange for your own transportation.at your own expense.
- For anyone who chooses to extend their trip from Trakošćan, Susie will help you arrange the needed transportation for you to continue your journey.
Reserve Your Spot
Pay a 25% deposit today to reserve your place on this once-in-a-lifetime safari!