CROATIA LAND & SEA with BUDAPEST in 13 days
Stradling the Danube River, Budapest is loaded with Hapsburg charm, temping thermal bathes, and a cuisine unlike any other in Europe. Croatia’s Baranja region is loaded with cultural, tasty cuisine, grandeur churches, and Lippizzaner horses. Zagreb, Croatia’s capital, is elegant and refined, a Habsburg mix of Vienna and Budapest. The Lakes of Plitvice National Park are an unusual mix of tropical greenery, azure lakes, and cascading waterfalls. Then join an eight-day cruise along Croatia’s Adriatic coast aboard a luxury yacht that will exceed expectations. Fast and versatile, our ship will take you where the bigger vessels can’t go, from historic towns to secluded beaches. This itinerary, combined with David McGuffin’s expertise, is the perfect island-hopping cruise in Croatia
Your Adventure Starts Here!
Budapest – 2 nights
Osijek – 1 night
Zagrab – 1 night
Plitvice Lakes – 1 night
7 Night CRUISE Overnight Ports of Call:
Split – Trogir – Vis – Hvar – Korčula – Slano – Dubrovnik
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Main Deck Cabin Double Occupancy $6978
Standard Cabin Double Occupancy $6578
Single Main Deck Cabin $8978
Single Standard Cabin $8378
ITINERARY
DAY 1 – MONDAY: BUDAPEST
Let’s begin with a meeting in our hotel lobby at 2:00 PM for introductions and information. Then, enjoy a walking tour along the river in Pest town center. See the massive Parliament Building and the Great Indoor Market Hall. After some free time, we will meet for dinner at one of our favorite restaurants. Then, let’s cap off the evening with a panoramic cruise on the Danube River. Sleep for 2 nights in Budapest. Walking: moderate. (D)
DAY 2- TUESDAY: BUDAPEST
We will visit the Buda side of the Danube today with a trek up Castle Hill for a panoramic view of the city and countryside. Your walking tour wanders by the Royal Palace into the grand Matthias Church. You’ll have the afternoon free to enjoy more of Budapest. Your guide will be available to assist those interested in taking a relaxing plunge in a traditional public bath (swimming suit required). Walking: moderate. (B)
DAY 3- WEDNESDAY: BUDAPEST TO OSIJEK
After breakfast, we’ll head out of the big city into the Baranja, a region between the Drava and Danube rivers. This hidden gem is filled with natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage. The area is renowned for its delicious white wines and traditional cuisine, such as fiš paprikaš (fish stew) and kulen (spicy sausage). Baranja is a destination where the past and present converge. You’ll enjoy being off the beaten path. Dive into lunch or dinner in a Baranja village with traditional tambura musicians and local wine tasting. Enjoy a walking tour of Osijek, visiting the fortress and historical elements dating from the Austro-Hungarian monarchy. Sleep 1 night in Osijek. Driving: 4 hours. (B,D)
DAY 4- THURSDAY: THE COUNTRYSIDE TO CAPITAL CITY
Ðakovo is in the heart of the Slavonia region of Croatia and is known for fine wine, a grand Cathedral, and the Lippizzaner stud farms and training facilities. Today, we will spend some time exploring all three. Pope John XXIII described the massive cathedral as “the most beautiful church between Venice and Constantinople.” We’ll learn the story of breeding Lippizzaners and perhaps see them in action at the nearby stud farm and pastures. Enjoy lunch and famous Slavonia wines in a traditional restaurant. Later, we will arrive in Croatia’s capital city, Zagreb. The historic core oozes with grand Hapsburg architecture and history, and you’ll experience it all on our local guided walking tour. Sleep 1 night in Zagreb. Driving: 3 hours. (B,L,D)
https://youtu.be/vbyNr92nR4o?si=mUyZTWXfP9xApgoM
DAY 5- FRIDAY: PLITVICE LAKES NATIONA PARK
Plitvice Lakes National Park is Croatia’s largest, oldest, and most visited national park. Its rich flora and fauna and sixteen cascading turquoise lakes are indescribable. The beauty of this national park is truly unique. You’ve got to see it to believe it! Later, enjoy dinner at Restaurant Lička kuća, which serves traditional fine dining from the region. Sleep 1 night near Plitvice Lakes. Driving: 2.5 hours. (B,D)
DAY 6- SATURDAY: SINJ AND SPLIT
After breakfast, we will head to Sinj. Sinj is a charming town nestled in the heart of Croatia’s Dalmatian hinterland. Its inhabitants have been telling how Our Lady of Sinj saved the village from the Ottoman army in 1715 for generations. The local church houses “Our Lady of Sinj,” an ornately decorated painting. The town is also famous for the Sinjska Alka, a knight’s tournament in honor of the 1715 event. After lunch, we will continue to Split, the largest city and port in central Dalmatia, the second-largest city in Croatia with a population of about 190,000. Saying goodbye to our driver and guide, you’ll have some free time to walk the town and get lunch. Then, let’s board our ship for a seven-night cruise along coastal Croatia. Driving: 2 hours.
Our ship, the Mama Mia II, is docked in Split Harbor. Embarkation is possible throughout the day; however, cabins will open at 2:00 PM. Passengers arriving early may leave their luggage and visit the town of Split. Later, around 7:30 PM, we’ll have a welcome meeting where the Cruise Manager will introduce you to the crew and your fellow passengers. A welcome dinner will be served at 7:30 PM. Overnight in Split, (B,D). Your Exploring Europe group may join others on the ship, depending on the size of our EE group. The maximum is 18 cabins, approximately 36 passengers.
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DAY 7- SUNDAY: SPLIT –TROGIR
Following breakfast, enjoy a walking tour of Split. The world-famous Palace of Roman Emperor Diocletian is nestled into the medieval city center. Over 1700 years old, Split abounds with cultural and historical sights. Many of these sites are listed as UNESCO World Heritage. We’ll sail for Trogir at noon, and lunch will be served on board. Later, enjoy the first of many swim stops en route, arriving at Trogir in the afternoon. This town is packed with palaces, churches, monasteries, and towers. We’ll meet a local guide for a city walking tour and orientation. Then, you’ll have the afternoon and evening to enjoy more of the town on your own. Overnight in Trogir. (B, L)
DAY 8- MONDAY: TROGIR–BOL –VIS
Today, we’ll sail for Bol, best known for its Zlatni Rat (Golden Cape) beach, which ranks as one of the most beautiful European beaches. Stopping in Bol, enjoy this lovely little Dalmatian town. Continuing our journey, enjoy lunch en route to Vis. Vis has been protected from excess tourism and retained its pristine beaches, ecological agriculture, and traditional architecture. Enjoy the afternoon and evening, exploring the town’s picturesque stone streets, beaches, and taverns. Overnight in Vis Town, (B, L)
DAY 9- TUESDAY: VIS –BIŠEVOBLUE CAVE –HVAR
We’ll cruise to the Island of Biševo and visit the Blue Cave, a famous natural attraction (weather and water level permitting). After a swim stop and lunch on board, we’ll continue cruising along many coves and bays towards Hvar, the sunniest Croatian island. In Hvar, you’ll meet a local guide for a walking tour, introducing you to its history, culture, and way of life. Afterward, you’ll have an evening on your own to explore and dine in one of the many restaurants and taverns. Overnight in Hvar Historical Town, (B, L)
DAY 10- WEDNESDAY: HVAR –KORČULA
We’ll start our morning departure towards the Island of Korčula. Enjoy a mid-morning swim stop followed by lunch onboard. After arriving in Korčula town, a local guide will take you for a tour. You’ll have the rest of the evening free to enjoy dining at one of the local restaurants of your choice. Overnight in Korčula Historical Town, (B, L)
DAY 11- THURSDAY: KORČULA–NATIONAL PARK MLJET–SLANO
Sailing from Korčula, we’ll visit Mljet National Park. You’ll have time to explore the park, walk around lakes, and see the Islet of St. Mary. You may even get in a swim in one of the lakes. Returning to the boat, we’ll have lunch and cruise to Slano, located on the mainland. Slano is one of the most picturesque places on the Dubrovnik Riviera, with a beautiful beach, dense pine forest, and olive groves. Enjoy the Captain’s Dinner on board this evening and live music entertainment. Overnight in Slano (B, L, D)
DAY 12- FRIDAY: SLANO–DUBROVNIK CITY WALLS
Departing to Dubrovnik, you’ll cruise past the Elafitski Islands and enjoy lunch on board. Later, cruise along Dubrovnik’s city walls and fortifications, where you can take unforgettable photos of breathtaking Dubrovnik. Then, after disembarking in the Old Town, a local guide will show you the most famous sights of Dubrovnik. Later, you’ll have time to explore the city, walk the City Walls, or take the cable car to Mount Srđand for a panoramic view of the city and the harbor. Later, you’ll return to your ship by coach. Overnight in Dubrovnik, (B, L)
DAY 13- SATURDAY: DUBROVNIK
There are no scheduled activities today other than breakfast. Your Exploring Europe guide and the ship’s crew are available to help you on your way.
Itinerary specifics are subject to change.
INCLUSIONS
LAND TOUR – 5 NIGHTS
5 nights hotel accommodations
Buffet breakfast daily at hotels
5 lunches or dinner with three courses on the “land” tour
Wine tasting as noted in itinerary.
CRUISE – 7 NIGHTS
An English-speaking cruise manager on board
A full-time Exploring Europe guide on board
8 crew members
7 nights cruise in preferred category cabin (on deck or below deck)
Complimentary fresh fruit available daily
Welcome reception and welcome dinner with three courses meals.
Buffet breakfast daily
6 lunches with three courses
Captain’s dinner with live music
Water is included with all group meals. Sodas, wine, beer, and other drinks are your responsibility.
Tea/coffee machine at disposal all day
Water dispenser
Professional guides for the city tours of Split, Trogir, Hvar, Korčula, and Dubrovnik.
Entrance fees to Biševo Blue cave
Mljet National Park entrance fees
Wireless headset system for guided sightseeing
Time on your own, during the afternoon and evening in Torgir, Vis, Hvar, and Korčula
Towels changed every second day & linen changed in the middle of the week.
Beach towel
Daily cabin cleaning service
Free Wi-Fi on board
CCTV Security Cameras on board
Elegance Rooftop Jacuzzi (Sun deck)
Credit card payment facilities
DAVID MCGUFFFIN USUAL TOUR INCLUSIONS
All tips and gratuities to crew, guides, and drivers.
David’s destination guides and tour information electronically delivered daily.
Free luggage tags and David’s custom-designed drawstring backpacks.
Our unconditional tour price guarantee, once locked-in, it will never change.
$50 Tour Alumni discount for each David McGuffin tour you’ve taken prior to this travel year.
EXCLUSIONS
Comprehensive Trip insurance. We strongly recommend comprehensive insurance for tour.
Fee for passports.
Beer, wine, spirits, and soda during the tour.
Laundry, phone, internet, and personal items
Extras and optional activities.
Anything not mentioned in the itinerary.
TERMS & CONDITIONS
The following payment terms and conditions are added in addition to our standard terms and conditions referenced below.
Keeping in mind this is a chartered cruise, our typical Exploring Europe Terms and Conditions have been modified to match those of the cruise organizer, ship, and Captain.
A $400 deposit is required at sign-up. This deposit is non-refundable after seven (7) days.
Final payment is due 90 days before the cruise departure date (June 30, 2024)
Cancel 35-22 days prior to departure = 35% of total cost penalty
Cancel 21-15 days prior to departure = 50% of total cost penalty
Cancel 14-0 days prior to departure = 100% of the total cost penalty.
David McGuffin strongly recommends you purchase comprehensive travel insurance to cover all elements of this tour package (land tour, cruise, and airfare). Information here: https://davidmcguffin.com/travel-insurance/
CANCELLATION POLICY
The following payment terms and conditions are added in addition to our standard terms and conditions referenced below.
Keeping in mind this is a chartered cruise, our typical Exploring Europe Terms and Conditions have been modified to match those of the cruise organizer, ship, and Captain.
A $400 deposit is required at sign-up. This deposit is non-refundable after seven (7) days.
Final payment is due 90 days before the cruise departure date (June 30, 2024)
Cancel 35-22 days prior to departure = 35% of total cost penalty
Cancel 21-15 days prior to departure = 50% of total cost penalty
Cancel 14-0 days prior to departure = 100% of the total cost penalty.
David McGuffin strongly recommends you purchase comprehensive travel insurance to cover all elements of this tour package (land tour, cruise, and airfare). Information here: https://davidmcguffin.com/travel-insurance/
See our complete Terms and Conditions here.
Cancellations will be effective when the written notification is received at David McGuffin›s Exploring Europe by mail, e-mail, or fax.
SIGN UP BY EMAIL OR POST
If you do not want to sign up online:
You may download a tour application and send it to us with payment.
-OR-
You may return it by:
- FAX 1-800-570-1351
- Email – info@davidmcguffin.com
- email – take a photo of the form with your smartphone and attach it to an email
- TXT – take a photo with your smartphone and TXT to 904-612-8149
KEY TO WALKING & ACTIVITY
Walking and Physical Activity: We have planned this trip to provide maximum tour experiences. The basic nature of Europe does require some degree of physical activity to get out and see the sights, especially in the big cities. To help you plan, we’ve included a daily projection of physical activity. Here is the key for our walking activity ratings:
Light – Walking done on level surfaces with some hills and elevation gains. Two miles or less of required walking during the day.
Moderate – Walking done on paved and gravel paths and cobbled city sidewalks. To enjoy the full tour experience, some uphill and downhill walking is expected, as is standing while viewing sights or museums. Four to six miles of walking per day.
Strenuous – Walking done on rugged and rocky paths and city-cobbled sidewalks. There will be steps and stairs. Up to three hours standing in museums or experience sites. Up to eight miles of walking per day.
Your Choice – No matter what your walking ability, we will help you find alternative ways to enjoy and experience all Europe has to offer. To get the most out of our tours, you should be able to operate at the light level every day with spurts of moderate and strenuous.
PRE-TOUR RESOURCES
Now that you’ve decided to join this tour, we are sure you’ll have some questions. Don’t worry. We are here to help you through each aspect of your tour from start to finish.
DAVID’S 60 SECONDS DESTINATION VIDEOS
Join David as he shares impromptu moments from his travels in the United Kingdom. Watching these short 60-second segments are a great way to experience David’s travel style and adventures. Watch David Explores Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, and David Explores Central Europe.
David’s TRAVEL TALK TUESDAY almost-weekly broadcast and Video Series Blog.
Every week, when David is not traveling in Europe, he presents a LIVE broadcast on Zoom and Facebook. Check it out on Tuesdays at 7:30 PM Eastern Time.
Each Travel Talk Tuesday session is recorded. Watch them here.
DAVID’S BLOG ARTICLES
David and his team have answered many travel-related questions, and they are all tucked away on his blog. But, no need to go there. Just type in a keyword in the search box at the top or bottom of this page (it’s the gray rectangle with a small magnifying glass icon), and you will get results for your query.
PLEASE SEND US AN EMAIL OR GIVE US A CALL.
We are happy to answer your travel questions and give advice and suggestions. tours@davidmcguffin.com or 800-570-1351.
PLEASE SEND US AN EMAIL OR GIVE US A CALL.
We are happy to answer your travel questions and give advice and suggestions. tours@davidmcguffin.com or 800-570-1351.
Testimonials & Reviews of our Tours
This was our first trip to Europe and it was everything we hoped for! John and Audra were the tour guides. They went above and beyond to answer all questions and tailor the experience to our requests. The group dinners were very good and let us see things we could have never found on our own. John and Audra both took the time to make sure we understood the public transportation in both countries so we could fully enjoy our free days. They even researched places for us to go based on our wish list. I could not recommend David McGuffin’s Exploring Europe and more highly. Thanks to everyone for a great experience!
We traveled to Scottland & Ireland on a McGuffin tour. The tour group was small making it easy to navigate the two countries as compared to larger tour groups. He included tours to many “off the beaten path” towns which differentiated this tour from others we have done. Having a half-day to explore stops on your own every day also made this tour a wonderful experience.
The Best of Ireland - September 2023
My wife and I just completed the Best of Ireland Tour and it changed our whole attitude about doing a tour. We loved being in a small tour group where everyone gets to know one another. We had a fantastic group and it was by far, one of the best and most informative trips we've ever been on.
From day one, each trip was carefully planned with an abundance of daily tours as well as needed downtime and though I have a hearing loss, David spoke louder to accommodate. We NEVER waited in lines for ANYTHING. Anytime we showed up for a reserved tour, we were immediately escorted thru.
Our dinner locations were chosen by David because of the charm, the history and the personality and DID NOT disappoint. The food was always outstanding with great selections available because of varying tastes, and we never expected wine and spirits to be included as part of the dining experience.
David also picked some out of-the-way locations to stop where the town was not overrun with tourists and where the larger buses were too big to travel. We had to endure some rainy days that required walking in the rain but that's just part of it. Unless we stopped to check into a hotel, the bags always stayed on the bus and if we couldn't check into the rooms early, the hotel had no problem storing our bags for us...at no charge.
We can't say enough about the quality of our tour guide and the entire tour itself. It has totally changed our opinion about tour groups and well never visit another city in Europe unless it's a small group tour!!!!!!!
The Best of Ireland - September 2023
My husband and I just traveled to Ireland with David for 12 days along with our friends and we had the best time. Every detail is streamlined in advance so you have no surprises. You receive an email or WhatsApp update every evening with your detailed schedule for the next day, so easy. Breakfast is included every morning, lunch on your own with plenty of options and fun group dinners half the time. David always listened to our opinions about what we wanted and didn't. We loved how he didn't bog us down with nonstop activity and gave us free time to explore on our own. We were so impressed with his company we immediately booked another tour with him. This is a no brainer for us because all you have to do is pack your bags, book a flight and he does everything else simple as that. If you can't have fun with EE,Inc you're not trying.
David provided a private tour for my family and myself. Our tour included Athens, Santorini and Mykonos. My favorite location was Mykonos. The Villa we stayed in Mykonos was gorgeous.
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