Dalmatia Travel Guide

Discover the rich and culture and natural beauty of Dalmatia with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Dalmatia

If you’re looking for a destination where you can experience everything from historic cities to natural wonders, then Dalmatia in Croatia is the ideal spot for you. Located in the Balkans region of Europe, Dalmatia is a beautiful, sprawling area of cities, mountains, and coastline which offer an exciting glimpse into Croatian culture. Whether you’re interested in exploring the natural landscape or soaking in the history and heritage of the area, Dalmatia has something to offer. In this guide, we have compiled a comprehensive list of all the best places to visit, things to do, and local customs to experience in Dalmatia.

List of Places to Visit in Dalmatia

If you’re planning on visiting Dalmatia, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to things to do and places to see. There are plenty of cultural and historical attractions, natural wonders, hiking and biking routes, and more. Here is a list of some of the top places to visit in Dalmatia:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Palace of Diocletian in Split
  • Trogir Old Town
  • St. Domnius Cathedral in Split
  • Ancient Roman ruins of Salona near Solin
  • St. James Cathedral in Sibenik

Natural Attractions of Dalmatia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Krka National Park
  • Plitvice Lakes National Park
  • Paklenica National Park
  • Biokovo Mountain and Nature Park
  • The Neretva River and Delta

Hiking/Biking Routes of Dalmatia

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, then Dalmatia has some of the best hiking and biking routes you can find in Croatia. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Biokovo Mountain trails
  • Paklenica National Park trails
  • Krka National Park trails
  • Velebit Mountain trails

Best Things to Do in Dalmatia: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for activities, tours, and experiences, then Dalmatia has plenty to offer, including:

  • Swimming and sunbathing on one of the many beaches along the Dalmatian coast
  • Visiting the historic cities of Split and Trogir
  • Island hopping in the Adriatic
  • Enjoying a wine tasting in the Peljesac Peninsula
  • Taking a sunset cruise along the coastline
  • Exploring the underwater world by scuba diving or snorkeling

Week-Long Itinerary for Dalmatia

If you’re planning to spend a week exploring all that Dalmatia has to offer, here is a suggested itinerary to make the most of your time:

  • Day 1-2: Explore the historic city of Split, walk-in Diocletian’s Palace and take a stroll along the Riva promenade.
  • Day 3: Take a day trip to Krka National Park and explore the waterfalls and nature trails.
  • Day 4: Go island hopping and visit the beautiful islands of Hvar and Vis.
  • Day 5: Discover Trogir, a small town with historic architecture and a lively marina.
  • Day 6: Drive up to Biokovo Mountain and take in the stunning views on a hiking or biking trail.
  • Day 7: Shop local produce in a traditional Dalmatian market and taste local delicacies on a food tour.

Food and Drink Scene of Dalmatia

Dalmatian cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and influences from Mediterranean and Balkan traditions. Here are a few must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Black Risotto, made with cuttlefish, rice, and squid ink
  • Pasticada, a slow-cooked beef stew
  • Octopus Salad, a fresh and flavorful dish
  • Roasted Lamb, often served on a spit and served with potatoes and vegetables

Local Beverages

  • Rakija, a fruit brandy made with local fruit such as grapes or plums
  • Croatian wine, particularly Plavac Mali and Dingac, produced locally on the Peljesac Peninsula

Where to Stay in Dalmatia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Dalmatia offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some popular options:

  • Luxury hotels such as the Hotel Excelsior in Dubrovnik and the Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort in Hvar
  • Budget hotels and guesthouses, including Split Guesthouse and Dubrovnik Backpackers Club
  • Hostels such as the Old Town Hostel in Zadar and the Youth Hostel Dubrovnik

What to Buy in Dalmatia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Dalmatia has a rich cultural heritage, and there are plenty of souvenirs and local products to bring home as a memento of your trip. Some popular options include:

  • Olive oil and local wine produced in the region
  • Pag cheese, a regional specialty made from sheep’s milk
  • Traditional handmade lace from Pag Island
  • Locally produced lavender oil and scents

Local Culture and Customs of Dalmatia

Dalmatian culture is a blend of Mediterranean and Balkan traditions. The locals are friendly and welcoming, but there are a few customs and etiquette rules to bear in mind. Here are a few:

  • When greeting someone, it’s customary to shake hands or exchange a kiss on both cheeks.
  • When entering a home, it is customary to remove shoes before entering.
  • Avoid discussing politics or sensitive historical topics as they can be a sensitive subject for some locals.
  • When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Dalmatia

The best time to visit Dalmatia is from May to September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the tourist season is in full swing. July and August are the peak seasons, with crowds and higher prices, while May and September are less crowded and more affordable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Dalmatia

Do:

  • Try local cuisine such as fresh seafood and local wines.
  • Explore the ancient ruins and historic sites of Split and Trogir.
  • Take advantage of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and island hopping.
  • Respect the customs and traditions of the locals.

Don’t:

  • Swim or sunbathe in areas that are restricted or marked as dangerous.
  • Overstay your visa or travel without proper documentation.
  • Ignore local customs and traditions.
  • Leave your belongings unattended in crowded tourist areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Dalmatia

Dalmatia is a generally safe region, but it’s always wise to take precautions to stay safe and avoid scams or petty theft. Here are a few tips to help you stay safe during your trip:

  • Be cautious when walking around tourist areas at night, and avoid walking alone.
  • Only use licensed taxi services and agree on a fee before boarding.
  • Avoid carrying large sums of cash around, and store your valuables in a hotel safe or secure location.

Health in Dalmatia

Dalmatia has well-equipped hospitals and healthcare services, but travelers should still take precautions. Make sure you have adequate travel insurance that covers medical expenses, and be cautious when trying new foods and drinks. Additionally, travelers to Dalmatia should ensure they are up to date with routine vaccinations such as measles, mumps, and rubella, as well as hepatitis A and B.

Getting to Dalmatia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Dalmatia is easily accessible by air, road, and sea. Here are some options for getting there:

Airports Near Dalmatia

  • Zadar International Airport
  • Split Airport
  • Dubrovnik Airport

Bus Stations Near Dalmatia

  • Split Bus Station
  • Dubrovnik Bus Station
  • Zadar Bus Station

Other Options

There are also ferry services connecting Dalmatia to the many islands, and domestic flights between Split and other Croatian cities.

How to Get Around in Dalmatia

The best way to explore Dalmatia is by car, as it gives you the freedom to drive along the coastline and visit all the different places on your itinerary. Alternatively, there are bus services connecting all the major cities and towns, or you can take ferries to explore the islands.

Where to Go Next from Dalmatia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Dalmatia is an ideal base for exploring other nearby destinations in Croatia, such as the capital city of Zagreb or the historic city of Dubrovnik. Additionally, there are plenty of day trips and excursions you can take from Dalmatia, such as a visit to Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina or a wine tasting tour in the nearby Peljesac Peninsula.

Conclusion

Dalmatia is a stunning region of Croatia full of natural beauty, historic cities, and a rich cultural heritage. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll have everything you need to explore all the wonders of Dalmatia, from where to stay to the best things to do and see. So, pack your bags and get ready to discover the beauty of Dalmatia!

Lakes in Dalmatia Lakes in Dalmatia


    Dubrovnik-Neretva
    Northern Dalmatia
    Split-Dalmatia