cruise images : alamy
DUBROVNIK
Referred to as the unofficial capital of Croatia ’ s Dalmatian Coast , it ’ s easy to see why the fictitious exterior of King ’ s Landing from Game of Thrones was set here . A fishing village turned fortified port , Dubrovnik has seen merchants and seafarers passing passed through it since the seventh century . For those who are keen to explore on foot , be sure to pack sturdy shoes as no visit here is complete without a walk around its City Walls — Dubrovnik ’ s defining feature .
The three main entrance gates , Pile , Ploce and Buža , all had drawbridges that back in the day were raised at sunset when the doors to the town behind the castle walls locked .
It ’ s a right of passage to spend time in the Old Town and castle walls of this city . Don ’ t miss the 15thcentury Large Onofrio ’ s Fountain — with its 16 stone carved masks and statue of a dog — which provides locals with potable spring water . Dubrovnik can get very busy , especially during peak season , so for a more relaxing experience , head to the six Elaphiti islands by boat where you can swim and explore lesser-known caves , visit small churches and stop off at a botanical garden and wineries .
SPLIT
If you want to relax on the beach , tuck into delicious seafood or explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites , then Croatia ’ s second-largest city is for you . Lovers of ancient architecture will be in awe of the UNESCO-listed Diocletian ’ s Palace on the harbor . Built in the late-third to early fourth century , it ’ s one of the world ’ s most impressive Roman monuments outside of Italy . Under the arched cellared entrance , traders tout their wares of locally made goods in what was once the palace ’ s sewer .
More adventurous travelers can explore the Dalmatian Hinterland — inland from Split — on a halfday all-terrain vehicle ( ATV ) tour , with a guide who ’ ll help you understand the local flora and fauna and point out otherwise inaccessible trails . Nature fans will love trekking in Krka National Park , about an hour north of the city , where guests can hike at leisure and swim in pools made from waterfalls . One of the most popular day trips from Split is the Blue Cave and Vis Island boat tour . Admire the cobalt oasis conjured up by the natural wonder of the cave , then relax in the small fishing and wine-growing island of Vis — inhabited since around 3000 BCE and now becoming more popular as a tourist destination due to its pristine beaches .
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