Quick Getaways: Croatia Calling

Embark on the perfect brief getaway or add an Adriatic exploration to your European vacation plans with this memorable four-day sailing from Venice to the most iconic and romantic ports in Croatia. Roll into the countryside beyond Rovinj on a cycling tour tracing the Parenzana Trail--a former Hapsburg Empire railroad line curving through rustic villages, dense forests, and weathered tunnels. Relax aboard a sailboat outbound from Zadar to the tiny island of Ugljan, where you'll swim, snorkel, sunbathe, and later savor local cheeses, savory meats and fresh local fruits. Admire garden views and the Hvar landscape during an authentic traditional brunch at an Old World family estate. Wander the cobblestone alleys of Dubrovnik's Old Town, or dip a kayak blade into the calm waters off scenic Lokrum Island as you follow your guide to caves and the crumbling remains of a nearly forgotten monastery.

No other sea approach in the Adriatic raises goose bumps like Venice, a small ship exclusive where the entire city and its lagoon are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On your luxurious home-away-from home, you arrive already equipped with a sense of what it’s like to live in the city that’s neither land nor water. Add your own sigh to the Bridge of Sighs, sip a spritz al bitter as you plot your agenda, and let the water taxis do your navigating unless you don’t mind getting lost. Not such a bad prospect, with serendipitous discoveries around every corner.

The lovely fishing port of Rovinj on the west coast of the Istrian peninsula bordered on three sides by the Adriatic Sea. You can tour the maze of cobblestone streets that lead to the hilltop St. Euphemia Cathedral with its towering steeple dominating the skyline. Old Town Rovinj is a delightful tangle of medieval streets and twisting stairways. Seek out the Bronze Age ruins of Monkodonja, the hidden beaches or the breathtaking natural beauty of the 6-mile-long Lim Fjord.

Something here will capture your heart. A Roman amphitheater, 9th century churches, and museums packed with Byzantine-era artworks crowd the peninsula that tidily contains the Old Town. It’s a tempting way to spend the day for sure. While away the day listening to Zadar’s giant Sea Organ, a haunting musical improv performed by the surging Adriatic or share a bench with a sun-drunk cat as you bite into a truffle.

Celebrities from Prince Harry to Beyoncé have made Hvar their go-to place. Follow the city walls to sweeping views from the fortress on the hill. Head to the town square for a look at the Venetian Cathedral or find the large bay of Stari Grad on an optional tour to this famous UNESCO site. 

While larger ships must pass by, we anchor right beyond the famous walled city so you can admire its beauty with every glance. Tender ashore and step right into Old Town, a UNESCO site where no cars are allowed, just eons of history. Capture the exhilarating views on your camera — and in your memory. End your day at the Buza Café (if you can find it) watching bold divers leap off the cliffs into the crystalline sea.