Split & Dubrovnik
October 4 - 11, 2025
From Split to Dubrovnik: An Overview
Join Scripps on a 7-day journey through the breathtaking Dalmatian Coast, where history, adventure, and indulgence await. Beginning in Split and ending in Dubrovnik, this exclusive incentive trip offers thrilling activities and immersive cultural experiences with curated meals and moments of leisure—topped off with unforgettable group dinners in stunning settings. This journey is more than a trip—it’s about discovery, connection, and shared moments that elevate the experience. Welcome to Croatia, the Scripps way: immersive, meaningful, and extraordinary.
Saturday, October 4th
Morning / Afternoon:
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Depart Home Cities to Split on an overnight flight, don't forget your passport!
Dress - Day: Comfortable Travel Attire
Sunday, October 5th
Morning / Afternoon:
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Scattered arrivals into Split, Croatia & transfer to Hotel Ambasador to check-in.
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3:00 PM Official hotel check-in.
Evening:
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6 PM - 7PM Sunset Cruise with Cocktails to celebrate your arrival in Croatia.
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Dinner on your own / rest of your evening at leisure.
Dress - Day: Comfortable travel clothes Evening: smart casual lighter layers like long-sleeved shirts, dressy blouse or collared shirt, trousers, a simple skirt, or a casual dress, comfortable shoes for cobblestone, light coat or scarf for cooler nights
Monday, October 6th
Morning / Afternoon:
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7:00 AM - 10:30 AM Buffet breakfast at Restaurant Méditerranée at the hotel.
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Choice of Activity:
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Cooking class (8:40 am-2:15pm, walk to class)
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Canyoning Adventure on the Cetina River (8:30 am-4:30 pm)
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Ziplining in the Cetina River Canyon (9:00 am-4:30 pm)
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Fićo Car Self Drive Tour & Olive Oil Tasting (9:00 am - 2:00 pm)
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Escape to Hvar - Island Discovery Day Tour (8:15 am - 4:00 pm)
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Evening:
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Dinner on Own
Dress - Day: Active / casual wear Evening: smart casual lighter layers like long-sleeved shirts, dressy blouse or collared shirt, trousers, a simple skirt, or a casual dress, comfortable shoes for cobblestone, light coat or scarf for cooler nights
Tuesday, October 7th
Morning / Afternoon:
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7:00 AM - 10:30 AM Buffet breakfast at Restaurant Méditerranée at the hotel.
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9:30 AM - 11:30 AM Guided walking tour of Split's Old Town & Diocletian's Palace.
Evening:
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6:30 PM to 9:30 PM Exclusive group dinner in a private Villa.
Dress - Day: Active / casual wear Evening: smart elegant lighter layers like long-sleeved shirts, dressy blouse or collared shirt, trousers, a simple skirt, or a casual dress, comfortable shoes for cobblestone, light coat or scarf for cooler nights.
Wednesday, October 8th
Morning / Afternoon:
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7:00 AM - 10:30 AM Buffet breakfast at Restaurant Méditerranée at the hotel.
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Bag pull - have your bags packed & ready for bellmen to pick up before transferring to Dubrovnik, bag pull times will be provided on-site.
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Hotel Check-out & depart for your "Transcursion Activity" on the way to Dubrovnik. Your choice of:
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Ston & Mali Ston – City Walls & oyster demonstration / optional oyster tasting with lunch (9:00 am - 3:45 pm)
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Wine Tasting at Terra Madre Winery with lunch (9:15 am -3:15 pm)
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Late afternoon arrival to Hotel Excelsior & check-in.
Evening:
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Dinner on your own / evening at leisure.
Dress - Day: Active / casual wear Evening: smart casual lighter layers like long-sleeved shirts, dressy blouse or collared shirt, trousers, a simple skirt, or a casual dress, comfortable shoes for cobblestone, light coat or scarf for cooler nights
Thursday, October 9th
Morning / Afternoon:
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6:30 AM - 10:30 AM Buffet breakfast at Salin Restaurant at the hotel.
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9:30 AM - 11:00 AM Guided walking tour of Dubrovnik's Old Town.
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Day at leisure with lunch on your own.
Evening:
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6:00 PM - 10:00 PM Join your Scripps Hosts for a Game of Thrones "House of Scripps: Lights, Camera, Kingdom" themed celebratory group dinner at Fort Lovrijenac (watch your inbox for more information on the theme and outfit inspiration).
Dress - Day: Active / casual wear, comfortable travel attire Evening: House of Scripps: Lights, Camera, Kingdom. Click here for dress ideas and inspiration.
Friday, October 10th
Morning / Afternoon:
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6:30 AM - 10:30 AM Buffet breakfast at Salin Restaurant at the hotel.
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Choice of Activity:
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Game of Thrones tour & lunch on Lokrum Island (9:30 am - 2:45 pm)
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Sea Kayaking around Dubrovnik City Walls with lunch (10:00 am - 2:45 pm)
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Evening:
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5:15 PM - 6:30 PM Guided Old Town Wall Walk.
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Dinner on your own / evening at leisure.
Dress - Day: Active / casual wear Evening: smart casual lighter layers like long-sleeved shirts, dressy blouse or collared shirt, trousers, a simple skirt, or a casual dress, comfortable shoes for cobblestone, light coat or scarf for cooler nights
Saturday, October 11th
Morning / Afternoon:
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6:30 AM - 10:30 AM Buffet breakfast at Salin Restaurant at the hotel.
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Bag pull & scattered hotel departures.
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12:00 PM Official hotel check-out.
Evening:
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Return to home cities.
Dress - Day: Comfortable travel attire
Rules and Regulations
This trip is exclusively for the internal use of c-suite executives at the qualifying advertiser’s business and is non-transferable to any other party. Travel will begin and end in the market from which the advertiser qualified (e.g., Charlotte, NC). If travel is required from a different city, Hoopla Travel Partners must be notified as soon as possible. Any flight deviations will be coordinated by Hoopla Travel Partners, and any associated surcharges or fare differences will be the responsibility of the participant. Please see the Transportation section for further details.
Each qualifier may bring one guest. All accommodations are based on double occupancy. Both participants and their guests must be 21 years of age or older to participate in or travel as part of this program.
Updates and communications about your trip will be delivered via email up until your trip. If you have any questions, please email Allison Donnahoe at allison@hooplatravel.com. If you are not receiving any communications, please be sure to check that your email is correct on your registration and to check your spam folder. Final trip documents will be sent approximately two weeks prior to the October 4th departure.
This pre-trip packet will include:
Trip Communications & Documents
Program Booklet
Includes detailed itinerary, dress codes, guest list, accommodations, and helpful trip info.
Airline Confirmation
Your finalized flight details and ticket information, including record locator numbers and departure times.
Activity Confirmation
A summary of all scheduled activities you and your guest are confirmed to attend and what to wear.
Travel Insurance
Your travel insurance details and coverage info are included and will be emailed to you.
Leave at Home Card
A handy reference card with contact info and your travel schedule to share with family or a contact back home.
Luggage Tags
Custom luggage tags to help identify your bags and ensure smooth handling during group travel.
Program Inclusions
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Luxury Accommodations at each hotel.
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Multi-city economy airfare from home cities to SPU and departing DBV back to home cities.
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Group activity (5)
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Daily breakfast at the hotels (6)
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Lunch (3)
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Cocktail reception (1)
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Dinner (2)
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All program tips, taxes and gratuities
Passport Requirements
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U.S. Citizens: Must have a valid passport with at least 3 months of validity beyond the planned date of departure from Croatia.
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No visa is required for stays under 90 days for tourism.
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A return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds may be requested.
Traveler’s Guide to Croatia
In October, Croatia daytime temperatures are between 65–75°F with cooler evenings around 55°F.
Croatia operates on Central European Time (CET), which is 6 hours ahead of Eastern Time.
The official currency is the Euro (€). It’s a good idea to carry a small amount of cash for tips, small purchases, and places that may not accept. ATMs are widely available, and opt to be charged in euros rather than U.S. dollars for better exchange rates.
U.S. travelers will need a type C plug adapter (two round prongs). Croatia runs on a 230V / 50Hz power supply so a voltage converter is needed for non-dual voltage appliances such as curling irons and straighteners.
Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. Visa and Mastercard are most commonly accepted. Small vendors, family-run restaurants, or rural stops may be cash-only, so it's good to carry some Euros.
Tipping is appreciated but not required in Croatia. For good service, a 5–15% cash tip (in Euros) is customary. All taxes, tips, and gratuities for bellmen, housekeeping, activities and included meals are already covered in your itinerary.
Croatia is a very safe destination for tourists. Just follow basic precautions—watch for pickpockets in crowded areas and use hotel safes. Tap water is safe to drink. For emergencies, dial 112 for national protection & rescue center or 192 for local police.
In Croatia, the most popular ways to get around are by taxi, Uber and Bolt, both widely used for ride-hailing services across major cities.
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Passport
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Comfortable travel attire
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Active wear T-shirt / tank top, shorts, leggings, comfortable shoes. See the activities page for more information based on your choice of activity.
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Comfortable walking shoes for cobble stone.
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Lightweight clothing: Breathable fabrics like cotton or linen
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Smart / Resort Casual: Men: Collared shirts, dress shorts or slacks, and closed-toe shoes. Women: Sundresses, skirts, blouses, or elegant separates with dress sandals or flats.
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Swimwear
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Cover-up: Sarongs, wraps, or lightweight dresses for the beach or pool.
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Sweater / wrap / jacket for evenings
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Hat: Wide-brimmed or cap for sun protection.
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Sunglasses
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Toiletries
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Personal medications
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Tote bag or beach bag / small backpack or crossbody for excursions
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Reusable water bottle
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Travel adapter (type-c) / converter
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Chargers / portable battery pack
Suggested Packing List
Activities
Each day offers a new way to experience Croatia’s beauty, culture, and adrenaline—your way. In Split, you might roll through the countryside in a vintage Fićo car, master local recipes in a hands-on cooking class, or get your heart racing with canyoning or zip lining before a well-earned lunch. As we travel south to Dubrovnik, you’ll choose between tasting wines at the eco-focused Terra Madre Winery or walking the ancient stone walls of Ston before an oyster farm tasting experience in Mali Ston. Once in Dubrovnik, your options continue—from kayaking beneath the city walls and hiking Srđ Mountain, to diving into local heritage with a Konavle Silks demonstration and flour mill visit or step into Westeros on a Game of Thrones tour capped off with lunch on Lokrum Island. No matter your picks, each experience brings you closer to the soul of Croatia. Please note that some activities have restrictions / requirements and limited availability and will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
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Cooking Class8:40 am - 2:15 pm (walk to class) Step into a traditional Dalmatian kitchen and learn the secrets behind Croatia’s most beloved dishes. Guided by a local chef, you’ll visit a nearby market (if available) to select fresh ingredients before rolling up your sleeves for a hands-on cooking class. From handmade pasta to seasonal seafood or meat dishes and local desserts, you’ll prepare and enjoy a full meal paired with regional wines. What to Wear/Bring, comfortable, casual clothing, closed-toe shoes recommended, hair tie (if needed), appetite and a sense of adventure! All ingredients, instruction from a local chef, and a full meal with wine or non-alcoholic options.
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Canyoning Adventure & Lunch8:30 am - 4:30 am Experience the raw beauty and untouched nature of the Cetina River on an exhilarating canyoning adventure. Over thousands of years, the river has carved a dramatic landscape of crystal-clear pools, waterfalls, and towering cliffs up to 180 meters high. Equipped with a life jacket, helmet, and neoprene gear, you'll follow your guide deep into the canyon, navigating rapids, swimming through natural pools, trekking past lakes and waterfalls, and exploring hidden subterranean tunnels. This adrenaline-filled activity is an unforgettable way to immerse yourself in the stunning natural wonders just outside of Split. Wear a swimsuit under quick-dry activewear and bring a towel, dry clothes, and sturdy water shoes (closed-toe and grippy—no flip-flops). All safety equipment is provided, and a hearty lunch is included following the adventure. Participants in canyoning must be in good physical health, with no medical conditions such as knee or back issues, or high blood pressure. All guests must also be confident swimmers.
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Zip Lining in the Cetina River Canyon & Lunch9:00 am - 4:30 pm Get ready for an adrenaline rush as you soar high above the breathtaking Cetina River canyon on an unforgettable ziplining adventure. Surrounded by rugged cliffs, pine forests, and crystal-clear waters, you'll glide across multiple ziplines—some stretching over 700 meters—offering heart-pounding thrills and panoramic views of one of Croatia’s most stunning landscapes. Led by expert guides, this safe and exhilarating experience combines adventure with incredible natural beauty just outside of Split. What to Wear/Bring: Wear comfortable, athletic clothing and closed-toe shoes with a good grip—no sandals or flip-flops. Bring sunglasses with a strap, sunscreen, and a small backpack or waist pack for personal items. Water and a sense of adventure are a must! All safety gear, including a harness and helmet, will be provided. Please note max weight is 300 lbs.
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Fićo Classic Car Tour (You drive!)9:00 am - 2:00 pm Drive Through History in Style Hop into a vintage FICO car and cruise through the scenic outskirts of Split with your travel companion as co-pilot. This unique self-drive adventure lets you explore the Dalmatian countryside at your own pace, weaving past vineyards, olive groves, and coastal views before arriving at a charming estate for an artisanal olive oil tasting. Learn about the region’s centuries-old olive oil traditions, sample local varieties, and enjoy light refreshments. What to Wear/Bring: Comfortable, casual clothing suitable for driving Closed-toe shoes (required for manual driving) Sunglasses and sunscreen A light jacket or layer (weather dependent) Valid driver’s license Important: This experience requires driving a manual (stick shift) transmission. Either you or your guest must be confident operating a manual vehicle to participate.
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Escape to HVAR - Island Discovery Tour8:15 am - 4:00 pm Sun, Sea & Storybook Streets Set off on a full-day adventure to the sun-soaked island of Hvar—famous for its turquoise waters, historic charm, and laid-back luxury. After a scenic ferry ride from Split, you’ll spend the day exploring the island’s picturesque harbor town, stone-paved alleys, boutique shops, and hilltop fortress. Midday, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local seaside restaurant featuring fresh island flavors and Croatian hospitality. What to Wear/Bring: Comfortable walking shoes (cobblestone streets!) Lightweight, breathable clothing Sun protection: sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen Swimsuit and towel (optional – time permitting for a dip) A light layer for the ferry ride Camera or smartphone for photos Included: Round-trip ferry transfers, guided island exploration, and a multi-course lunch with local wine.
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Guided Walking Tour of Split Old Town & Diocletian's Palace9:30 am - 11:30 am Step back in time as you explore the heart of Split with a local guide, beginning at the magnificent Diocletian’s Palace—a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the world. Wander through centuries-old stone streets, hidden courtyards, and vibrant squares as you uncover the layered history of the Old Town, where ancient Roman architecture blends seamlessly with medieval and modern-day life. Along the way, learn fascinating stories about emperors, locals, and the city’s transformation through time in this unforgettable introduction to Split’s cultural core.
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Ston & Mali Ston – City Walls & Oyster Demonstration / Optional Oyster Tasting9:00 AM - 3:45 PM Begin your journey with a scenic drive to the medieval town of Ston, home to one of the longest defensive stone walls in Europe. You'll walk a portion of these historic fortifications, taking in panoramic views of salt flats, vineyards, and the sparkling Adriatic coastline. From there, continue to the neighboring village of Mali Ston for a truly local experience—an oyster farm demonstration where you’ll learn about the cultivation process and enjoy a guided tasting of freshly harvested oysters straight from the sea. The day concludes with a relaxed, seafood-focused lunch at the renowned Bota Šare restaurant, perched along the waterfront. (don't worry...you do not have to taste oysters on this experience if you do not want to). Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the wall includes uneven steps and inclines, along with lightweight clothing, sun protection, and a small bag for personal items or water. Transportation, guided activities, the oyster tasting, and lunch with wine or a non-alcoholic beverage are all included.
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Lunch & Wine Tasting at Terra Madre Winery9:15 AM - 3:15 PM The perfect way to break up the drive—surrounded by nature, great wine, and warm hospitality. Savor a scenic stop on your journey to Dubrovnik with a leisurely visit to Terra Madre Winery, perched high above the shimmering Neretva Valley. This family-run estate offers sweeping views of lush vineyards, winding river channels, and the surrounding green hills. Upon arrival, you'll be welcomed with a guided tasting of organic wines made from indigenous grape varieties, each shaped by the region’s unique microclimate. A locally sourced lunch will be served alfresco among the vines, showcasing traditional Dalmatian flavors that pair beautifully with each pour. To fully enjoy the setting, wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking on uneven ground, and bring sun protection such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
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Game of Thrones Tour & Lunch on Lokrum Island9:30 AM - 2:45 PM Step into the realm of Westeros on this immersive Game of Thrones walking tour through Dubrovnik’s Old Town. With a local guide, you’ll visit iconic filming locations such as the Walk of Shame stairs, while hearing behind-the-scenes stories about the show. Then, take a short ferry ride to the lush island of Lokrum—featured as the City of Qarth—where peacocks roam, a Benedictine monastery stands, and the Iron Throne awaits for the perfect photo op. Enjoy a scenic lunch on the island surrounded by nature before returning by boat. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and lightweight clothing, as the tour includes steps and cobblestones, sunglasses and sunscreen.
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Sea Kayaking around Dubrovnik City Walls & Lunch10:00 AM - 2:45 PM Paddle your way along the stunning Dubrovnik coastline on a guided sea kayaking adventure that takes you around the iconic city walls and into hidden caves and bays. Departing from the historic harbor, you’ll enjoy views of Fort Lovrijenac, Lokrum Island, and the dramatic cliffs that make Dubrovnik one of the Adriatic’s most picturesque cities. After working up an appetite, enjoy a well-deserved lunch at a local seaside spot. Participants should be comfortable in the water and wear quick-dry clothing, water shoes or sandals with grip, and sun protection.
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Old Town Guided Dubrovnik City Wall Walk5:45 PM - 7:15 PM Experience Dubrovnik from above on an early evening guided walk along its iconic city walls. As the sun begins to set, casting a warm glow over the terracotta rooftops and shimmering Adriatic Sea, your guide will lead you along the historic fortifications that have protected the city for centuries. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views, hear fascinating stories of battles, resilience, and maritime power, and take in a quieter, cooler side of the Old Town. It’s a stunning and memorable way to see the city from a whole new perspective. Wear comfortable walking shoes for cobble stone and casual, light layers, sunscreen and a hat.
Transportation
Round-trip coach airfare for two from home cities to Split (SPU) and returning from Dubrovnik (DBV) is included in this program. Keep an eye out for an email regarding flight information and booking. If you have requested to upgrade, you will need to pay the full cost of any difference in airfare due to upgrading at the time of booking (upgrade prices are subject to availability and may change). Rates are not guaranteed until payment is processed and booking is confirmed. If you choose to book your own air, your reimbursement will occur after the program concludes and will cover only the cost of an economy-class flight on the official program dates from your city/market. Approximately two weeks before the flight, participants will receive a pre-trip confirmation letter with flight details and record locator number. If considering any type of deviation from the group flight, please let Hoopla Travel Partners know by emailing mckenna@hooplatravel.com. All flight deviations will be planned by Hoopla Travel Partners and surcharges/fare differences will be assessed directly to the participant. A participant’s specific itinerary will be provided in the pre-trip confirmation letter.
Reimbursement Policy
For participants who choose to book their own flights, reimbursement will be issued after the program concludes and will cover only the cost of an economy-class flight on the official program dates from your designated city or market. It is required to submit an itemized receipt and a copy of your flight itinerary to Hoopla Travel for reimbursement processing. Any additional costs for upgrades, such as Economy Plus or other premium seating, are not eligible for reimbursement. Please reach out to McKenna Pate at mckenna@hooplatravel for more information about your markets reimbursement policy.
Extension Guidelines
Participants choosing to extend their travel before or after the official program dates should note that additional costs may apply. Expenses related to hotel accommodations, ground transportation, and any difference in airfare for extended travel are the sole responsibility of the traveler. Click here to contact us about extension rates.
Hotel Ambasador Split
Perched along Split’s waterfront promenade, Hotel Ambasador offers a stylish, contemporary retreat with panoramic views of the Adriatic and nearby marina. Just a short walk from Diocletian’s Palace and the heart of Old Town, this 5-star hotel blends modern elegance with authentic Dalmatian charm. Guests enjoy spacious rooms with sea views, a rooftop bar, an upscale restaurant showcasing Mediterranean cuisine, and a full-service spa—perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.
Accommodations
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Trumbićeva obala 18, Zapadna obala 21000 Split, Croatia
+385 21 293 00
Check-in: 3:00 PM
Check-out: 12:00 PM
Outdoor Pool Hacelia Spa Gym Restaurant Méditerranée Bar Split Pool Bar Rooftop Terrace Wi-Fi Air Conditioning Laundry Service* Espresso machine & minibar Pillow menu In-room tablet with hotel app LCD TV Complimentary bottled water daily *Additional costs may apply
Amenities & Facilities
Excelsior Hotel Dubrovnik
A landmark of luxury on the Adriatic, the iconic Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik sits just steps from Dubrovnik’s Old Town and offers breathtaking views of the city walls and Lokrum Island. This historic 5-star retreat has welcomed royalty and celebrities alike, blending timeless elegance with modern sophistication. Guests can indulge in refined dining, relax in the serene spa and indoor pool, or enjoy private beach access. With its unbeatable location and unmatched service, the Excelsior is more than a hotel—it’s part of Dubrovnik’s story.
Frana Supila 12 20000 Dubrovnik, Croatia
+385 091 437 2956
Check-in: 2:00 PM
Check-out: 12:00 PM
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Indoor Pool Private beach access Gym Spa Jacuzzi, Finnish sauna, Turkish hammam, and Roman bath Sensus Fine Dining Prora Beach Restaurant Abakus Piano Bar Wi-Fi Air Conditioning Business Center Minibar & coffee/tea-making facilities Flatscreen TV Bathrobes & luxury toiletries Currency exchange and luggage storage 24 hour concierge service Airport shuttle* Laundry services* Gift shop* Hair salon* 24 Hour room service* *Additional costs may apply
Amenities & Facilities
A Taste of Croatia
Eat. Sip. Split.
Traditional Dalmatian Food - Michelin Star
Mon-Sat 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Sun Closed
Mediterranean, seafood, steaks, pastas
Daily 12:00 PM - 10:30 PM
Mediterranean, creative Dalmatian - Michelin Star
Daily 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Neapolitan pizza, casual Italian
Daily 11:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Fine dining seafood - Michelin Star
Daily 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Steakhouse, seafood, modern European
Sun-Thur 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Fri - Sat 12:00 PM - 11:30 PM
Devour Dubrovnik
Upscale Croatian, French & Italian influences - Michelin Star
Daily 6:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Traditional Bosnian - Michelin Star
Daily 10:00 AM - 1:00 AM
Mediterranean, Grill, French - Michelin Star
Daily 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Mediterranean, local Dubrovnik specialties
Daily 9:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Japanese, Asian, Sushi
Daily 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Fresh seafood, classic Croatian - Michelin Star
Daily 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Seafood, Mediterranean
Daily 8:00 AM - 12:00 AM
