Croatia: Southern Dalmatia

This tour is presented by the alumni associations of the University of Alberta and the University of British Columbia. All curious travellers are welcome!

Come with us to enchanting Croatia! It is a land of incomparable natural beauty, complex history and cultural riches. This is where Slavic east meets Mediterranean west, where you encounter a unique mix of ancient ruins, Byzantine splendour, Renaissance and Baroque architectural wonders, and vibrant 21st-century modernity.

We begin in Italy’s coastal town of Trieste: a gateway to Croatia and the Dalmatian coast. Following a short drive through neighbouring Slovenia, we head to the Istrian peninsula’s Pula, home of the best-preserved Roman amphitheatre in Europe. In Zadar, admire ancient Roman ruins and modern public art. On the island of Pag, with its barren moonscape-like beauty, savour the local gastronomic delights of travarica (fruit brandy) and sheep-milk cheese.

Farther south, we stop in the charming towns of Trogir and Šibenik, with their treasure troves of Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Farther south still is Split, the birthplace and home of one of Rome’s great emperors, Diocletian. His massive palace, built in the early 4th century and magnificently well-preserved, is a wonder!

On the island of Hvar, discover more historical riches and indulge in a special lunch, with a tasting menu of local wines and culinary specialties. The final leg of the tour takes us first to Ston, whose medieval fortification walls are second only to the Great Wall of China, and ultimately to the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic,’ Dubrovnik. Marvel at the beauty of the Old Town with its ancient city walls and elegant Baroque buildings.


Throughout this lively, immersive journey, enjoy traditional Dalmatian cuisine as you discover the exceptional natural beauty of the South Dalmatian coastline and islands alongside study leader Sylvia Chrobak.