Cruises From Italy to Croatia

Encircled by more than a mile of defensive walls, Dubrovnik is a joy to explore. Once you’ve walked the ramparts, head to the Gothic-style Dominican monastery to admire art and shop for organic beauty products in the ancient pharmacy. Whizz up Srd Hill, which overlooks the city, for jaw-dropping views of the old town and the sparkling Adriatic beyond. Back in town, sit in a sidewalk restaurant for a platter of smoked ham, salty cheese, and a crisp Marastina, one of the excellent local wines.

The Roman emperor Diocletian built a lavish palace in Split in the third century AD. To this day, it remains the heart of the city, complete with homes, churches, and shops. Take a tour of the substructure to see medieval wine and olive presses and listen to a performance of traditional klapa singing, which is hauntingly beautiful. Above ground, hike up wooded Marjan Hill for views of the city, or hop on a boat to nearby Brač island to swim off pebbly beaches in the aquamarine waters.

Zadar is the gateway to some of Croatia’s most beautiful countryside, whether you join a canoe trip on the Zrmanja River or a hike in Paklenica National Park, a region of forested mountains and dramatic canyons. Zadar itself is perched on a peninsula and dates back to Roman times, its old town a cluster of fine medieval buildings and sunlit squares. Check out the hypnotic Sea Organ on the waterfront, an art installation that whistles melodically with the gentle movement of the waves.