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Dubrovnik Ferry To Korcula Island – Grand European Tour Part 12

SSomewhere — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 11:49:37 +0000

Grand European Tour – Setting Sail For Korcula

This is one in a series of blog posts detailing our 10-county trip around Europe on trains, buses, cars and ferries. All the posts highlight what we got up to (without the boring bits) along with some tips and helpful overviews should you wish to visit the destinations. This post focuses on our trip on the Dubrovnik ferry to Korcula Island. You can see all the posts from this trip here.

With over a thousand islands dotted along the Croatian coast, there was plenty of choice when choosing an island getaway. To be honest, Korcula (Korčula) was a little bit random, but it was approximately halfway between Dubrovnik and Split which fell neatly in with our plans.

The Dubrovnik ferry to Korcula was a catamaran and way more comfortable and roomy than our recent bus journeys, and by this time we were reasonably sure we’d shaken off our Dutch student friends! So onto our first Croatian Island.

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Korcula – Small But Perfectly Formed

Korcula (pronounced KOR-chu-la) is a small island, about 29 miles long and about 5 miles across. The main town is Korcula town which is where we stayed. Korcula town is like Dubrovnik in miniature, fortified walls surround the town, and although it is popular with tourists, it was not over full on our visit, unlike Dubrovnik which was very busy.

The main entrance to the medieval old town is over a stepped bridge through the Land Gate, built to honour Leonardo Foscolo, a hero of Dalmatia during the 17th century, and this is how we wound our way to our apartment after being met off the Dubrovnik ferry to Korcula by our accommodation host.

An Evening By The Adriatic Sea

After settling into our new temporary and rather spacious home, we took a walk around the town walls and found a nice little pizza restaurant (Tesoro Pizzaria) with an outside table overlooking the Adriatic and nearby Pelješac peninsula (Croatia). Yes, it was warm enough to sit outside, just.

Korcula is not a big town, so the next morning we spent time exploring the little streets, including the one where Marco Polo, Korcula’s most famous son, was reputedly born. There seemed to be interesting little shops around every corner for souvenirs and jewellery. We then grabbed a couple of sandwiches from a local deli and headed along the coast for about a mile and then up into the hills for a couple of hours’ walk. Korcula Island is known as the green island given that its interior is densely forested, so great for hiking. This time of year we didn’t bump into another soul and were rewarded with stunning views over Korcula and the nearby peninsula.

Back to Sea

The following day we had a little time to kill, so spent the morning relaxing and trying to work out where exactly our next outbound ferry would arrive from the rather vague instructions we received on the booking. Korcula currently has two docks (East and West) where ferries arrive and depart, so if you are catching a ferry from here it is worth checking where you need to be, as it will not necessarily be the same dock you were dropped off at (it wasn’t for us). Again it was a catamaran, this time to take us back to Split for a quick overnight before heading to Italy the next day.

See the next instalment of the Grand European Tour here.

Or for more tips and insights on Korcula please continue reading below…

How to Get to Korcula

By Air: Korcula Island doesn’t have an airport, but the nearest ones are Dubrovnik and Split Airports. From either of these two hubs, you can generally catch a ferry to Korcula – see below for further details. We would recommend using Skyscanner to find flights to Dubrovnik and Split, and, if you are flexible when you go/return using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the most economical flights.

By Ferry: Being an island, the easiest way to access Korcula is by ferry (such as the Dubrovnik Ferry to Korcula we used). There are numerous routes to Korcula, including from Split, Dubrovnik (in Croatia) and Hvar (on Hvar Island). Depending on where you are coming from, ferry crossings can be as little as 30 minutes, and during the peak summer season, there are around 10 sailings to/from Korcula. In the off-season, there will be significantly less. You can check out ferry crossings to Korcula here.

USEFUL RESOURCES – KORCULA

Accommodation: Booking.com

Activities: Get Your Guide

Flights: Skyscanner

Trains: Rail Europe

Bus: FlixBus

Car Hire: AutoEurope

Getting around Korcula Island

There are lots of options for getting around Korcula,

Walk: Korcula town is small, in particular, the old town with its narrow pedestrian streets is perfect for walking. It is also easy to venture further afield on foot as we did into the nearby hills. To make things easier download the AllTrails app.

By bicycle: If you want to venture further afield into the island then hiring a bicycle is also a great option. Bikes can be hired from several places in Korcula town so it is easy to explore the island on two wheels.

By Bus: Local buses are a good and convenient option to get you around to the main towns on the island. See here for further information.

By taxi: Taxis are also available on the island for more comfortable transportation, but note that the island does not yet have Uber.

Hire a car: Of course, for complete freedom when exploring the island hiring a car is a good option, especially if you are planning on a few days here, but remember Korcula old town is walled and pedestrianised so there is no need for a car if you are staying in the town. You will find local car rental companies in Korcula town.

Top Tips – Korcula

For Hotels including self-catering apartments we use Booking.com, where you can filter by review score and many properties have a pay later/late cancellation policy should your plans suddenly change.

Check our resources page for more budget tips and discounts from our days in transit!

Where to stay on Korcula

Here are a few accommodation options for a stay on Korcula

A couple of places worth considering ais the beautiful Villa Soul Sisters if you want to be right near the beach and not too far from Korcula town itself, or Korcula’s oldest hotel, the elegant Aminess Korcula Heritage Hotel.

A private apartment such as the very spacious Apartments Sunny Town where we stayed, could also be a great option.

The Top 10 Things to See and Do on Korcula

Korčula is a beautiful gem of a Croatian island, known for its stunning landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant culture. Here are the top 10 things to see and do on Korčula:

Old Town of Korčula: You can easily explore the charming Old Town, with its with narrow medieval streets and well-preserved architecture. Visit the Cathedral of St. Mark, Marco Polo’s alleged birthplace, and enjoy the chilled atmosphere in the main square.
Marco Polo Museum: Learn about the legendary explorer Marco Polo, who is believed to have been born in Korčula. The museum showcases his life and travels through exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia displays.
St. Mark’s Cathedral: Admire the impressive St. Mark’s Cathedral, a Gothic-Renaissance masterpiece with a beautiful facade and interior. The cathedral is home to notable artworks and sculptures.
Get out into the country on an eBike: The countryside of Korcula offers some great views and chances to explore, but it is an island so there are hills, so why not take an eBike tour to see the island in all its glory with a little less effort.
Korčula’s Beaches: Relax on one of Korčula’s picturesque beaches. Pržina Beach, Lumbarda Beaches, and Vela Pržina are popular choices, offering clear waters and a peaceful atmosphere.
Visit Vis Island: Take a boat trip to Vis Island and its Famous Blue cave only accessible by boat and one of the most enchanting spots in Croatia.
Wine Tasting in Lumbarda: Korčula is renowned for its excellent wines, particularly the white wine made from the local Grk grape. Visit Lumbarda for a wine-tasting experience paired with stunning sea views.
Moreska Sword Dance: If you are in Korčula in the summer, try to catch a performance of the Moreska (usually performed in Korčula town on 29 July -St. Theodore’s Day and Saturdays during the summer tourist season). This is a traditional sword dance that has been part of Korčula’s culture for centuries. The dance tells a story of conflict and resolution and is a unique cultural experience.
Korčula’s Local Cuisine: Sample the delicious local cuisine in Korčula. Especially try the fresh seafood, grilled fish, lamb dishes, and local specialities like pasticada. Many restaurants in the Old Town offer a charming setting for a delightful culinary experience.

Staying Safe

Korcula is known for its friendly locals and laid-back atmosphere, and the crime rate is low.

If you have an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

It is important, as with any trip, to have comprehensive travel insurance coverage to protect against, cancellations, theft, illness etc. For this, we use and recommend using Staysure – specialists in over 50’s travel insurance, as we have always found them fair and easy to deal with.

The post Dubrovnik Ferry To Korcula Island – Grand European Tour Part 12 appeared first on Destination Someplace.

How to Spend 2 days in Dubrovnik – Grand European Tour Part 11

SSomewhere — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 09:36:31 +0000

Grand European Tour – 2 days in Dubrovnik, Or How We Split From Split and Head For Game of Thrones Central

This is another in a series of blog posts detailing our 10-county trip around Europe on trains, buses, cars and ferries. All the posts highlight what we got up to (hopefully without the boring bits) along with some tips and helpful overviews should you wish to visit the destinations. This post focuses on our 2 days in Dubrovnik. You can see all the posts from this trip here.

The following day, we took a final stroll around Split and then along the promenade, cases trundling behind us to find the bus for Dubrovnik, our next stop.

The bus was late by about an hour, and when it did arrive it was rammed with people (including the Dutch students we had met yesterday!) and cases – It took forever to load the cases, and ours got severely dinted in the process – bear this in mind if you are travelling on buses. This, by far, was our most uncomfortable journey. The bus was a ‘double decker’ in the sense that it was on two levels, we choose the bottom level, which in hindsight, was probably a mistake, as it was more cramped with a low ceiling and little leg room (I’m over 6 feet tall). Unfortunately on this journey, the onboard toilet also seems to be having its own issues, given the faces of the people brave enough to use it and the unpleasant odour permeating he bus every time the door opened. Oh, the glamour of intercontinental travel.

RESOURCES – DUBROVNIK

Accommodation: Booking.com

Activities: Get Your Guide

Flights: Skyscanner

Trains: Rail Europe

Bus: FlixBus

Car Hire: AutoEurope

We Arrive in Dubrovnik

After a long and winding bus journey, we finally arrived at Dubrovnik station, and quickly found a taxi to our accommodation, and was greeted by our very friendly host with a very welcome cold beer, after several hours on a warm bus, this was just what we needed.

After stocking up on a few supplies, we headed to a local pizza restaurant, the Vita Bella which was about a kilometre walk from our apartment but not in the tourist area of town. Given the choice, we often try to seek out the restaurants in the less touristy areas of major tourist hotspots, mainly because the food is usually good, you are less likely to get ripped off and we like to integrate (even for a short while with the locals). This proved to be the case with the Vita Bella.

A Busy Day in The Old Town

The next morning we headed into Dubrovnik’s historical centre, about a 20 minute walk from our apartment. Stopping off at Restaurant Sesame for a morning cappuccino.

Our first port of call after this was the Fort Lovrijenac, which is more recently famous as the location of several ‘Game of Thrones’ scenes, but this striking edifice has existed since the 1300s.

After this we crossed through the ancient walls of Dubrovnik into the Old Town itself. The majority of the Old Town is given over to a myriad of shops and an array of restaurants providing many cuisines, Croatian and Italian being the most popular. You can easily pick up souvenirs here (which wasn’t on our tick list for this trip as we simply did not have the room), from icons and paintings to everything ‘Game of Thrones’ (Dubrovnik is where much of the series was filmed). Eventually, wandering through the town you’ll come across the small, but vibrant Gunduliceva Poljana Market where you can stock up on seasonal fruit and vegetables, as well as handmade gifts and souvenirs.

Of course, we also bumped into our Dutch students, yet again! – by this time we were beginning to think we were stalking each other, so said hello and goodbye yet again (for the third time!).

After a light lunch, the day was getting very warm, and the Adriatic waves gently lapping against the old city walls where one of the locals was swimming looked very tempting – we got talking to this aquatic adventurer, a very friendly guy, who said he swims there every day rain or shine – so if you are in Dubrovnik and come across him don’t forget to say hello.

After a full day in Dubrovnik, we walked back to our digs and then found somewhere to eat, again locally, fuelled by a couple of beers in the Roxy Bar (a well-known, local blues and music bar – no, it wasn’t rough and the beer was excellent).

We Catch The Island Ferry

The following day we had a ferry to catch, but not until the afternoon, so headed back to Dubrovnik old town early in the morning. This we found was the best time to visit, before the umbrella waving tour guides descended with their hordes – very quiet – you can almost imagine what it was like a hundred years ago before it morphed into the tourist hotspot it now is.

After grabbing a light lunch and with gelato in hands we headed back to our apartment and then headed for the port with a short taxi ride.

We booked all our ferries via Direct Ferries and this particular one was taking us on a two-and-a-half-hour ride to the island of Korčula…

Go here to read the next instalment of the Grand European Tour.

Or for more tips and insights on Dubrovnik please continue reading below…

Getting to Dubrovnik

By Air: You can get to Dubrovnik Ruđer Bošković Airport easily from the UK, as well as via international flights across Europe. I would recommend using Skyscanner to find flights into Dubrovnik, and, if you are flexible when you go/return using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the most economical flights.

By Train: If you have read our experience of travelling to Croatia, you will know that in our opinion the rail network for accessing the major coastal towns of both Dubrovnik and Split could be better. To get to Dubrovnik by train the easiest current route would probably be from the direction of Sarajevo (but you’d still have to get a bus part of the way), still improvements to the railway infrastructure are probably on the cards, so I expect we’ll see positive changes in the future. In the meantime, you can check out the train options here.

By Bus: Dubrovnik is easy to reach by bus, I would recommend Flixbus, which is a company based in Germany, but serves the vast majority of mainland Europe and offers cost-effective options to get to Dubrovnik.

Dubrovnik: Getting to and From the Airport

If you decide to fly to Dubrovnik Ruđer Bošković Airport (also referred to as Čilipi Airport), here are a few simple options for getting into the city depending on your budget. They are:

Book an airport-to-city shuttle: There is a shuttle bus service that connects the airport to Dubrovnik city centre. Bus schedules are typically coordinated with flight arrivals and departures. You’ll find timetables and prices here.

Local Bus: If you are not in a hurry, and don’t mind stopping several times along the way into town, you could opt to take a local bus, but note this service doesn’t run as frequently as the shuttle bus. See here are further details.

Take a taxi: Taxis are widely available at the airport, and as usual you will find them outside the arrivals terminal, where you’ll probably will find yourself greeted by a guy who seems to organise the taxis lined up at the rank. Make sure to use official taxi services and it is wise to confirm the fare in advance with the driver.

Book a private or shared transfer into town: Another option is to book a private transfer or shared transfer before you arrive, for a swift exit into Dubrovnik.

Hire a car: Of course, if you want the flexibility of your own transport and are planning to go further afield than Dubrovnik (remember you can’t take a car into the Old Town), then you will find a raft of car rental counters in the arrivals hall, or you can book in advance online.

Getting around Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a beautiful city with a very well preserved historic centre and getting around his relatively easy. Probably the best way to get around, given that the Old Town is pedestrianised, is on foot. Remember vehicles are not allowed inside the Old Town, so you need to pick up/drop off any public transport (buses, taxis etc.) outside the city walls.

Walk: The Old Town is relatively compact with many of the main tourist attractions within walking distance of each other within the old city walls. Losing yourself in the narrow streets is a great way to explore the town.

By Bus: The public bus system in Dubrovnik is operated by the company, Libertas and connects with the city centre with various neighbourhoods and suburbs of Dubrovnik. You can purchase bus tickets at kiosks or inside the buses themselves.

By taxi: Taxis are also widely available and you can find taxi stands in popular areas of the town. Uber is also widely available outside the city walls.

Cable car: the Dubrovnik cable car provides an option to enjoy some excellent views of the city and the Adriatic. It connects the Old Town with Mount Srđ and once at the top, you could also visit the old Imperial Fort.

Boats and ferries: If you want to explore the nearby islands then there are many boat and ferry services available from Dubrovnik. These can take you to places such as Lokrum Island or nearby beaches which may not be quite so accessible by road.

Top Tips – Dubrovnik

Use Omio to compare buses versus trains, very useful.

Check our resources page for more budget tips and discounts from our days in transit!

Where to stay in Dubrovnik

Here are a few accommodation options for a stay in Dubrovnik.

A private apartment such as Apartments Nina@Anita where we stayed, with super-friendly hosts Nina and Anita is perfect if you don’t mind walking (about a mile) or catching the bus to the Old Town.

A couple of options closer to the action are the excellent Scalini Palace which is centrally located in the Old Town without the usual expensive price tag, or the wonderful Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik for some old world charm just a short walk from the Old City Walls.

Remember the Old Town is pedestrianised, so bare this in mind when booking accommodation, as your transport would have to leave you outside the city walls and you would have to make your way to your accommodation on foot if you book in the Old Town.

2 Days in Dubrovnik – Suggested Itinerary

If, like us, you get a chance to spend 2 days in Dubrovnik, here’s a suggested itinerary for a little inspiration. As always, check the opening times of any attractions before your visit.

Top Tip: If you are planning on visiting the historical sites in Dubrovnik, then purchasing a Dubrovnik Card is a good idea. The card gives you entry into many of the city’s museums as well as access to the Old Town walls, and as a bonus enables you to use the city’s public bus system for free – it’s an great option if you want to make the most of time in Dubrovnik. You’ll find more details on the Dubrovnik card here.

Day 1

Walk the city walls: Why not start your day early with an excellent walk around the Old Town walls in the morning. Take in the fantastic views of the Old Town and the sparkling Adriatic Sea. Morning is best for this, before the heat of the day kicks in (and it is less crowded). Set aside an hour or two for this.
Visit the Rector’s Palace: A Dubrovnik must-see is the 15th-century Retcor’s Palace (Knežev dvor), an imposing Gothic -Renaissance edifice that now serves as a museum, and was a filming location for some Game of Thrones scenes.
Explore the Old Town: Take some time, to explore the labyrinthine streets and alleys of the Old Town, where you’ll find plenty of souvenir shops, restaurants and cafes nested side by side with historical sites such as the Baroque Church of St Blaise (Crkva svetog Vlaha) or the ever-popular Gundulićeva Poljana Market, an open-air market found in Gundulić square.
The Sponza Palace: Home to the State Archives this elegant Renaissance 16th-century palace offers a fascinating glimpse into Dubrovnik’s turbulent recent history.
Onofrio’s Fountain: Time to take a break and maybe grab an ice cream near the imposing Onofrio’s Fountain, a popular meeting point for locals and visitors alike.
The Franciscan Monastery and Pharmacy: As evening descends, why not visit one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe, before dinner in one of the many restaurants in the Old Town?

Day 2

Lokrum Island: This morning why not take a ferry to nearby Lokrum Island, and explore its botanical gardens. If the weather is good, there are many swimming spots on this tranquil island, and ideal should you want to take your own picnic. The peace is only occasionally disturbed by the occasional squawking of the resident peacocks.
Visit Mount Srđ: After lunch on Lokrum Island or back in Dubrovnik Old Town, why not take the cable car up to the top of Mount Srđ for some truly stunning views of Dubrovnik and the nearby islands.
War Photo Limited: On returning back to Dubrovnik Old Town, you may want to visit War Photo Limited. It is fitting that a country that has experienced so much conflict throughout its history should host this permanent museum of photography exhibits illustrating the stark reality of war and conflicts around the world.
Enjoy a Dubrovnik sunset: As the sun starts its evening descent why not spend that time at the city walls or maybe grab a cocktail at the beautiful, cliffside Buza Bar, with its spectacular views.
A view to dine for: You’ll never get bored of the views around Dubrovnik, so why not take one last chance to press them into your memories by having a final evening meal at one of the many restaurants (such as the Gradska Kavana Arsenal) with a great view for your final evening.

Staying Safe

Dubrovnik is a generally safe city. Crimes of violence against visitors are very rare.

If you have an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Of course, as with any trip, the key thing is to have comprehensive travel insurance coverage to protect against, cancellations, theft, illness etc. For this, we use and recommend using Staysure – specialists in over 50’s travel insurance, as we have always found them fair and easy to deal with.

The post How to Spend 2 days in Dubrovnik – Grand European Tour Part 11 appeared first on Destination Someplace.

Croatia and Dalmatian Coast: Biograd na Moru To Split – Grand European Tour Part 10

SSomewhere — Fri, 03 Nov 2023 15:30:27 +0000

Taking the Bus Through Croatia and Dalmatian Coast to Split

You can see all the posts from this trip here.

As mentioned in the last post, Zagreb, unfortunately, was simply a hub to get to our next destination, so after resting up for the evening we headed down to the Zagreb’s bus station the following morning. Why were we catching a bus and not a train? Well we had decided during the planning of this trip that we really wanted to see Croatia (not just a couple of quick overnights in Zagreb), particularly the Dalmatian coast, and maybe hop onto an island or two – the problem is that, at present, Croatia’s rail network is quite sparse and mainly serves the key towns. It does not , however, run along the coastal towns which means navigating our way down the coast by train, whilst not impossible, would be pretty tricky and time consuming. So we made the decision to use buses (and ferries) for this part of the journey.

OTHER USEFUL RESOURCES – CROATIA

Accommodation: Booking.com

Activities: Get Your Guide

Flights: Skyscanner

Trains: Rail Europe

Bus: FlixBus

Car Hire: AutoEurope

From Zagreb to The Coast

Zagreb train station is big but well laid out and we had little difficulty finding our bus. Cue four and half hours on a bus (which was booked with Flixbus, but contracted out to a local company). Our next destination was the Crvena Luka Hotel and Resort, close to the harbour town of Beograd na Moru – after four and half of travelling and the last few nights mostly being one-night stands we were getting pretty fazed. It was time for some rest and relaxation.

Bus travel is not for everyone and over four hours on the bus was enough for us. On arriving at Beograd na Moru it was just a short taxi ride to the resort of Crvena Luka. On route there, the taxi driver asked us if we were there to rest or ‘party’, as apparently there was a DJ festival taking place at the resort at exactly the same time we were staying there.

On checking in, and forgoing the opportunity to join the festival, we headed for our room.

A Laid-back Break

The Crvena Luka Resort is well laid out, but at this time of year (start of the season) was very quiet, even with the DJ festival happening, we more or less had the place to ourselves most of the time – a little too much to ourselves probably – but we were pretty exhausted by this time, so it was great to have nothing to do for a while. We stayed on a half board basis and the buffet breakfast and dinners in the restaurant were great, our only niggle is that you couldn’t get water with your dinner without paying through the nose for a bottle of water (they did have an offer on the wine though, so we drank that instead!) – aside from that all good.

We stayed here 3 nights at the resort and hired bicycles one day to cycle into Beograd na Moru itself, which was very quiet, but it was a Sunday, it was early in the season and it was also St George’s day (widely celebrated in Croatia). We also took advantage of the resorts spa treatments (opting for saunas and massages) as the weather took a turn for the worst on the Monday.

Onto Split and Into the Hills

On leaving Beograd na Moru, we caught another bus (another 3 and a bit hours), this time to the beautiful coastal town of Split.

Split bus station is located right next to the ferry terminals, so after a 15 minute walk along the promenade (the waterfront at Split is really quite beautiful) we were at our accommodation for the next couple of nights. Central Split is easy to walk around, but be prepared to get lost in the twisty little cobbled-stoned streets, only to find yourself back where you started (we did this several times). It’s touristy, but not as touristy or as expensive as Dubrovnik in our opinion. Needless to say we spent the entire day exploring the town, in particular the Diocletian’s Palace, and hiking up to Marjan Hill and the surrounding trails for panoramic views of the city. On the hill, we met a group of Dutch students who were working their way across Europe to Monte Negro as part of their degree work, so we had a chat and took turns at taking photographs of each other, whilst lightly taking the micky (apparently I look nothing like Tom Cruise!).

In the evening we had a couple of beers and grabbed a light dinner, before falling (exhausted) into bed.

You’ll find the next instalment of the Grand European Tour here.

Or for more tips and insights on Split please continue reading below…

Getting to Split

By Air: You can get to Split Airport easily from the UK (some direct and some indirect flights depending on the departure airport), as well as via international flights across Europe. We would recommend using Skyscanner to find flights into Split, and, if you are flexible when you go/return using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the most economical flights.

By Train: In our experience, the Croatian coastline is not particularly well-served when it comes to trains. Trains from anywhere in Europe tend to come via the hub of Zagreb (about 6 and half hours away by rail) and as of writing do not run very often. Obviously, this leaves room for improvement, but a good option might be to take one of the night trains (depending on your starting point) that are currently coming online – check here for details of trains to Split.

By Bus: Split can also be reached by bus, we would recommend Flixbus, which t serves the vast majority of mainland Europe and offers cost-effective options to get to Split.

By Ferry: If you are visiting Croatia from Italy, then a ferry crossing may be an option, you check the ferry schedules here.

Split: Getting to and From the Airport

If you decide to fly to Split, here are a few simple options for getting into Split from the airport depending on your budget. They are:

Take the shuttle bus: You will find the shuttle bus parked in front of Arrivals as you exit the airport building. Look out for a blue bus, the name of the bus company is Pleso Prevoz. This will take you to Split town centre in about 30 minutes and you can buy a ticket with the driver or online at the bus company’s website.

Get the local bus: There is also a local bus (number 37) service that takes you from Split Airport to Split, but note you have to pick it up on the road outside of the airport terminal (Cesta Dr Franje Tuđmana Road), and it takes a minimum of 50 minutes to get into town, as it stops along the way – it will also deliver you to the Sukoisan bus station in Split, rather than the main bus station, which might not be so convenient and you may have to get another bus or taxi to your final destination within Split. You can buy a ticket on the bus. You can find more information regarding this local bus service here.

Take a taxi: The taxi ranks are located just outside the arrivals terminal, close to the main exit. The journey time to the centre of Split is usually 30 minutes depending on traffic. Always use official taxis and it is wise to confirm the fare in advance with the driver. Uber also operates in Split.

Hire a car: Of course, if you want the flexibility of your own transport and are looking to explore the towns along the coast or inland, you will find car hire company counters at the airport or you can book in advance online.

Getting around Split

There are many options for getting around Split, depending, of course, on your fitness level and budget. The public transport systems are safe and efficient.

Walk: The waterfront promenade, Splitska Riva, as well as the city centre around the Diocletian Palace are pedestrianised, so this makes Split ideal for walking around. Many of the main tourist attractions are also within walking distance of each other.

By bicycle: An alternative to walking is exploring the town by bicycle. You can rent bicycles from many of the travel agents in the town or use the publically available bikes and eBikes that are scattered around the town and in the pedestrian zones – for more info check out the app here. Perfect for going a little further afield.

By Bus: Split has an extensive bus network for reaching the far-flung areas of the city, which you can’t get to by walking. The local bus services are run by the company Promet, and their website shows the latest service information and timetables. You can also download the app to your Android phone here.

By taxi: You can hail taxis or find them at one of the city’s designated taxi stands. Uber is also available in Split, which you can book as normal through the app.

Top Tips – Split

Use Omio to compare buses versus trains, very useful.

Check our resources page for more budget tips and discounts from our days in transit!

Where to stay in Split

Here are some accommodation options for a stay in Split.

A couple of accommodation options worth considering are the clean and welcoming Rooms & Apartments Peruzovic which is where we stayed on this visit and is conveniently located.

A centrally located hotel such as the Hotel Agava Split might also be a good option.

Unusual Things to Do in Split

Split is a great town to spend a few days if you are exploring the Croatian coast, here are our recommendations for some more unusual things to do whilst there.

Explore the hidden beaches: For peace and tranquillity, why take a bus from Split’s Old Town to picturesque Kasjuni Beach on the Marjan Peninsula or even spend an afternoon relaxing on popular Bacvice Beach, just a short walk from the Old Town.
Take a stroll through Marjan Forest Park: This vast area of 138 hectares is perfect when you want to get some fresh air, with its serene walking trails and stunning viewpoints. Look out for the hidden old medieval church or the old Jewish cemetery. Here are some of the great trails you can explore here.
Visit Diocletian’s Palace at night: Why not visit the Diocletian’s Palace in the evening for a completely different ambience once the crowds of the day have thinned out. The palace was built for the Roman emperor Diocletian at the end of the third century AD and encompasses about half of the old town where you can explore narrow streets and follow up with some traditional Dalmatian cuisine in one of the nearby restaurants.
Discover hidden art galleries and street art: There are many lesser-known galleries showcasing local artists’ work in Split, you’ll find them tucked away on the streets of the Old Town and in the charming neighbourhood of Veli Varoš on the southern slope of Marjan Hill – you never know what you might discover.
Explore Klis Fortress: From its imposing hilltop, this medieval fortress offers spectacular views of Split and was used as a location for the fictional city of ‘Meereen’ in Game of Thrones. Find details of excursions to Klis Fortress here.
Visit the nearby town of Salona: The ancient nearby town of Salona (Solin), the ancient Roman capital of Dalmatia with its long history and well-preserved ruins, is a great destination for history buffs. We recommend visiting in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.
Experience Traditional Dalmatian Cuisine at Local Konobas: Get your teeth into some traditional Dalmatian cuisine at a local Konobos (traditional Croatian taverns), we recommend local favourite DeListeš or the truly authentic Fetivi, and maybe try one of these local delicacies – goat’s meat with peas, squid with fava beans or cuttlefish stew.
Hop into the Froggieland Museum: For a rainy day in Split, and if you really want to see something quite eccentric and more than a little weird then why not visit the visit Froggieland Museum with its displays feature over five hundred preserved frogs posed in human-like and strangely familiar scenarios. We’re not kidding!

Staying Safe

Split is a generally safe city with low crime rates. Like many popular towns petty theft and pickpocketing can occur especially in crowded tourist spots or busy public transport. So keep your valuables safe and out of sight.

If you have an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

The post Croatia and Dalmatian Coast: Biograd na Moru To Split – Grand European Tour Part 10 appeared first on Destination Someplace.

Zagreb to Slovenia – Overnight in the Croatian Capital – Grand European Tour Part 8

SSomewhere — Tue, 22 Aug 2023 10:38:21 +0000

Grand European Tour – Sittin’ in the Railway Station…
Got a Ticket to My Destination…Mmm

This is one of a series of blog posts detailing our 10-county trip around Europe on trains, buses, cars and ferries. This one focuses on Zagreb to Slovenia. All the posts highlight what we got up to (hopefully, without the boring bits) along with some tips and helpful overviews should you wish to visit the destinations. You can see all the posts from this trip here.

Our next stop was Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. This was only ever intended to be a quick stopover on the way to Ljubljana (but we did manage to get a great apartment for the night!) as we planned to return here for another overnight on the way down to the Croatian coast, so, to be honest, we didn’t really see as much of the city as we wished.

Our impressions of the city? It’s big and spread out, as borne out by the several inner city railway stations we stopped at before reaching our final destination of the central station of Zagreb (Zagreb Glavni Kolodvor). The area near the railway station has a faded old-world grandeur, unlike some city railway stations in Europe which are often in the midst of less salubrious districts. On exiting Zagreb railway station you are greeted with a wide-open vista with well-kept gardens fronted by a statue of King Tomislav, the first king of Croatia. The station building itself also has a very grand façade, a throwback to the days when Zagreb was a stop on the Orient Express.

OTHER USEFUL RESOURCES – ZAGREB

Accommodation: Booking.com

Activities: Get Your Guide

Flights: Skyscanner

Trains: Rail Europe

Bus: FlixBus

Car Hire: AutoEurope

Zagreb! – Great For Tobacco Lovers

Just a note for non-smokers (like us). Smoking is still very popular in Croatia, having one of the highest percentage of smokers per population in Europe (particularly amongst men), and smoking inside bars still seems to be the done thing (even though, according to Wikipedia ‘Smoking is banned in all enclosed public spaces, with the exception of psychiatric wards and designated smoking rooms’) – in our limited experience, the bars we visited for coffee all had smoking indoors (and out) – which came as a surprise to us since it is banned in many parts of Europe now.

Zagreb to Slovenia

Zagreb, as mentioned was just a one-night stand for us, so the next morning we hit the train station again, to catch our ride to Ljubljana – the train was late by about an hour, this happens all the time, apparently (we gleaned from local knowledge). Once on the train, we got comfortable in one of the six seat compartments, which typically filled the carriages in this part of the world, and was joined by Patrick (a fellow, first time interrailer – Hi Patrick, if you are reading this!) and spent the bulk of the journey sharing our experiences so far.

To read the next instalment of the Grand European Tour go here.

Or for more tips and insights on Zagreb please continue reading below…

Getting to Zagreb

By Air: You can get to Zagreb Airport (Franjo Tuđman Airport) easily from London and Manchester UK airports, as well as via international flights across Europe. I would recommend using Skyscanner to find flights into Zagreb, and, if you are flexible when you go/return using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the most economical flights.

By Train: Although the train network can be limited and occasionally slow in parts of Croatia, getting to the capital, Zagreb, should pose no problems. Zagreb is accessible from the major towns of Croatia, as well as the rest of Europe. Check out trains to Zagreb here.

By Bus: Zagreb is also accessible by bus, and for this I would recommend Flixbus, which is a company based in Germany, but serves the vast majority of mainland Europe and offers cost-effective options to get to Zagreb.

Zagreb: Getting to and From the Airport

If you decide to fly to Zagreb, here are a few simple options for getting into the city from the airport depending on your budget. They are:

Airport Shuttle: Operated by the Pleso Prijevoz company, this is a cost-effective option and will get you to the main bus station in Zagreb in about 30 to 40 minutes.

Public Bus: Bus line number 290 runs between the airport and Zagreb central bus station. Here’s the timetable, but these things change so it’s worth checking locally nearer the time.

Take a taxi: Taxis are found near the ground floor, arrivals area. All taxis, of course, take cash, it is wise to check if they take your card if paying with a credit card and to confirm the fare in advance with the driver.

Hire a car: Of course, if you want the flexibility of your own transport, then you will find a raft of car rental counters at the airport, or you can book in advance online.

Getting Around Zagreb

There are some interesting options for getting around the capital of Croatia (including a funicular!), depending on your fitness level and budget. Here are the main ones:

Walk: Although Zagreb is a large city, the city centre is quite compact so making it perfect for getting around on foot.

By bicycle: Zagreb is mainly flat and with more than 300 km (186 mi) of bike lanes, making it ideal for cycling.

Zagreb Cable Car: Yes, Zagreb has a cable car (žičara), which opened in 2022, and transports passengers on a 5km route from Gracansko dolje in the north of the city to Sljeme (1,030m above sea level) at the top of Medvednica mountain, via the intermediate station of Brestovac. The total ride from the base station to the top takes around 22 minutes.

By Bus: The extensive bus network complements the tram system and you’ll find more information regarding it here.

By taxi/Uber: If you are feeling flush, then getting about by taxi offers an alternative to other forms of public transport. You can hail or find them at one of the city’s designated taxi stands. Uber is now also available in Zagreb which you can book as normal through the app.

By Tram: Using the tram system in Zagreb is probably the easiest way to get around town as they cover a wide swathe of the city and serve most of the cultural hotspots. You can buy tram tickets at newspaper kiosks (also from the drivers in most cases), and remember to validate them on the machines inside the tram (near the doors) immediately upon boarding. More info here.

Top Tips – Zagreb

Use Omio to compare buses versus trains, very useful.

For Hotels including self-catering apartments we use Booking.com, where you can filter by review score and many properties have a pay later/late cancellation policy should your plans suddenly change.

Check our resources page for more budget tips and discounts from our days in transit!

Hotels in Zagreb

Here are a few accommodation options for a stay in Zagreb

A couple of hotels in Zagreb worth considering are Hotel Dubrovnik which is centrally located and close to the main tourist sites, or a bit further afield, located in the historic old town, the superb Hotel Park 45.

If a private apartment is more your thing, then the clean and spacious Logo Apartments where we stayed on this visit could also be a good option.

Zagreb -Things To Do

Explore Ban Jelačić Square: This central square is a great starting point for exploring the city, surrounded by shops, cafes, and historic buildings.
Upper Town (Gornji Grad): This is the historic heart of the city, and features St. Mark’s Church with its colourful tiled roof, the Lotrščak Tower, and narrow medieval streets.
Zagreb Cathedral: The tallest building in Croatia, this beautiful cathedral is an iconic and treasured landmark in the city.
Museum of Broken Relationships: Yes, it is really called that. This unique museum showcases personal stories and objects from (you’ve guessed it) failed relationships, offering an emotional and thought-provoking experience.
Dolac Market: Thisis the place to pick up some local delicacies. Dolac is a bustling open-air market where you can find fresh produce, local foods, and Croatian traditional crafts.
Tkalciceva Street: This famous pedestrian street is lined with cool cafes, restaurants, and shops, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, but not so easy to pronounce.
Go Green in Zrinjevac Park: This picturesque park is the perfect place to get away from it all, or even have a picnic. There are many other green spaces to visit in Zagreb including Maksimir Park (with a zoo) and Jarun Lake for lakeside activities.
Medvednica Mountain (Sljeme): If you fancy a short hike or a cable car ride, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city from this mountain. See transport options elsewhere in this article.
Eat and drink like a local: Don’t miss the chance to sample traditional Croatian cuisine, including dishes like čevapi (grilled minced meat), sarma (cabbage rolls), and various seafood specialities. Pair your meals with local wines and rakija (fruit brandy).
Croatian National Theatre: Why not attend a performance at this grand historic theatre, showcasing the best of opera, ballet, and drama productions?

Where to eat

For traditional Croatian fare, you could try Stari Fijake, traditional cuisine in a rustic setting. Or take it up a notch and visit Dubravkin Put, this upscale restaurant features modern interpretations of traditional Croatian dishes using locally sourced ingredients in an elegant and refined atmosphere.

There are also many vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Zagreb such as Tač, a trendy place that focuses on vegetarian and vegan cuisine, offering a variety of creative and flavoursome dishes.

Staying Safe

Zagreb is a generally safe city with low crime rates. Crimes of violence against visitors are rare, but like many major cities petty theft and pickpocketing do occur especially in crowded tourist spots or busy public transport. So keep your valuables safe and out of sight.

If you have an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Of course, the key thing is to have comprehensive travel insurance coverage to protect against, cancellations, theft, illness etc. For this, we use and recommend using Staysure – specialists in over 50’s travel insurance, as we have always found them fair and easy to deal with.

The post Zagreb to Slovenia – Overnight in the Croatian Capital – Grand European Tour Part 8 appeared first on Destination Someplace.

Croatia - Destination Someplace

Dubrovnik Ferry To Korcula Island – Grand European Tour Part 12

Grand European Tour – Setting Sail For Korcula

Korcula – Small But Perfectly Formed

An Evening By The Adriatic Sea

Back to Sea

How to Get to Korcula

Getting around Korcula Island

Top Tips – Korcula

Where to stay on Korcula

The Top 10 Things to See and Do on Korcula

Staying Safe

How to Spend 2 days in Dubrovnik – Grand European Tour Part 11

Grand European Tour – 2 days in Dubrovnik, Or How We Split From Split and Head For Game of Thrones Central

We Arrive in Dubrovnik

A Busy Day in The Old Town

We Catch The Island Ferry

Getting to Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik: Getting to and From the Airport

Getting around Dubrovnik

Top Tips – Dubrovnik

Where to stay in Dubrovnik

2 Days in Dubrovnik – Suggested Itinerary

Staying Safe

Croatia and Dalmatian Coast: Biograd na Moru To Split – Grand European Tour Part 10

Taking the Bus Through Croatia and Dalmatian Coast to Split

From Zagreb to The Coast

A Laid-back Break

Onto Split and Into the Hills

Getting to Split

Split: Getting to and From the Airport

Getting around Split

Top Tips – Split

Where to stay in Split

Unusual Things to Do in Split

Staying Safe

Zagreb to Slovenia – Overnight in the Croatian Capital – Grand European Tour Part 8

Grand European Tour – Sittin’ in the Railway Station…Got a Ticket to My Destination…Mmm

Zagreb! – Great For Tobacco Lovers

Zagreb to Slovenia

Getting to Zagreb

Zagreb: Getting to and From the Airport

Getting Around Zagreb

Top Tips – Zagreb

Hotels in Zagreb

Zagreb -Things To Do

Where to eat

Staying Safe

Grand European Tour – Sittin’ in the Railway Station…
Got a Ticket to My Destination…Mmm