Guide to the Dalmatian Coast

What is the Dalmatian Coast?

The Dalmatian Coast is off-shore Croatia’s portion of the Adriatic Sea – the larger body of water that separates the Italian peninsula from the Balkans. The coast is known for its incredible natural beauty. Glittering azure seas and majestic beaches are backed by dense pine forests, limestone cliffs, and – to the north – soaring mountains. The culture and history of the coastline are equally mesmeric, littered with beautifully preserved Medieval old towns, and with a food and wine scene to die for.

Where is the Dalmatian Coast?

Geographically, the Dalmatian stretch of Croatia’s coast begins from the town of Zadar at the foot of the Northern Velebit Mountains. Heading south, the major towns along the coast at Sibenik, Trogir, Split, the villages of the Makarska Riviera, and finally Dubrovnik, the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’. The many Dalmatian Islands are equally stunning and ripe for visiting. The Kornati Archipelago off Zadar is prime sailing territory, while the island group which includes Brac, Hvar, Vis, Korcula, and Mljet is impossibly beautiful.

When to Visit the Dalmatian Coast?

As with the rest of Croatia, the Dalmatian Coast has a typically Mediterranean climate with cool winters and hot summers. Temperatures reach a peak in July and August – as do tourist numbers, with the coinciding European school holidays. Therefore in our opinion, the best times to visit Croatia are May and June, and then the end of summer in September and early October. At this time you’ll find pleasant sailing conditions, warm waters for swimming, and thinner crowds in the old towns and beaches.

What to do on the Dalmatian Coast?

During your cruise, you’ll call in on national parks – such as Krka, with its majestic waterfalls – and head ashore for guided city walks in atmospheric old towns along the coast and on the islands of Vis, Korcula, and others. A cruise through the coast is an opportunity to enjoy fine food and wine – with experiences such as oyster farming and truffle tasting – as well as enjoying the verdant natural scenery of pine forests, olive groves, and picturesque sand and pebble beaches.

Best Way to Travel the Dalmatian Coast?

While connecting these beautiful towns and islands by road and short ferry journeys is possible, we emphatically believe that the best way to traverse the waters of the Adriatic is on a high-end small-ship cruise. Our Deluxe and Deluxe Balcony cruises travel between key ports Split and Dubrovnik, calling in on the gorgeous islands of Hvar, Brac, and more, as well as the ancient cities of Zadar, Trogir, Sibenik, and Korčula town.

Split to Dubrovnik

One of the best the Dalmatian Coast cruises travels one-way from the stunning historic city of Split to Dubrovnik, an ancient, UNESCO-listed city surrounded by impressive medieval walls. This route allows travelers to explore two of Croatia’s most iconic destinations. For those interested in extending their journey with a private tour of Montenegro, Dubrovnik makes an ideal endpoint, as it’s located near the Montenegrin border.

The cruise offers a scenic journey through the region’s idyllic islands, creating an unforgettable island-hopping experience. Before departing Split, you can explore Diocletian’s Palace, a sprawling complex filled with impressive architecture, columns, sphinxes, and over 200 buildings housing cafes, bars, shops, and restaurants. Along the way, the cruise often includes stops at picturesque locations like Brac Island, Hvar, Korcula, Vis, and the stunning Mljet National Park, making for an exceptional coastal adventure.

Dubrovnik to Split

Taking the reverse route from Dubrovnik to Split offers an equally immersive Croatian cruise experience. Ending your journey in Split puts you closer to destinations like Trogir, Sibenik, the Kornati Archipelago, and Zadar, making it ideal for those who want to explore more of the region. Along the way, you’ll savor delicious Dalmatian cuisine both on board and ashore, immerse yourself in the region’s rich history, and enjoy spectacular scenery with plenty of swim stops in secluded bays and pristine beaches.

The cruise often includes unique tastings, from fresh oysters to local wines, enhancing the experience. Excursions may take you to the famous Blue Cave, where sunlight creates a mesmerizing silvery-blue glow inside, one of nature’s most stunning displays. Locally guided tours provide authentic, in-depth insights into the places you visit, bringing their stories and sights to life.

Dubrovnik to Opatija