Holidays from Newcastle to Croatia

Our Newcastle departures connect travellers to the Dalmatian coast and the wider Adriatic, and the options below show how each destination is reached from the airport.

• Dubrovnik: Dubrovnik is the natural choice for travellers who want a walled medieval city set against the sea. From the airport, shuttle buses and taxis make the transfer into the city straightforward, and the historic core is pedestrian only, so you leave your luggage at your accommodation and walk. The trade-off is that summer evenings can be busy inside the walls, so we suggest a morning visit to the city walls. Our judgement is that it rewards a slower, earlier pace than most visitors expect. Dubrovnik holidays suit travellers who value history above nightlife.
• Split: Split is the second-largest city in the country and offers a lively working base that sits close to ferry links for island trips. Transfers from the airport into the city are handled by shuttle bus and taxi, and the compact centre means most sightseeing can be done on foot. The downside is that the city can feel warm and busy in the height of summer. For many travellers it is the most practical starting point on this coast.
• Zagreb: Zagreb is the capital and largest city, and it is the one destination where a direct airport bus runs into the centre. Its historic upper town of Gradec and St Mark's Square give a strong sense of history, while the café culture keeps the pace unhurried. Winter brings cold weather and occasional snow, so the city suits spring and autumn best. We see it as an excellent choice for a city-focused trip that gives a different view of the country.
• Hvar: Hvar is reached by ferry from the mainland, which means your route from the airport is a two-stage journey rather than a single transfer. The island is one of the sunniest places in Croatia, with a harbour lined with bars and restaurants and a fortress overlooking the water. The extra connection adds time on the day you travel, so we recommend booking the ferry in advance for summer sailings. Hvar holidays suit travellers who enjoy a change of scenery partway through the trip.
• Plitvice Lakes National Park: Plitvice Lakes is an inland destination rather than a coastal one, and it is set in the Lika region of central Croatia. Visitors usually reach it by road from the main airports, so car hire or a pre-arranged transfer makes the journey practical. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its interlinked lakes are best seen on marked wooden walkways. We find it works well as a day trip or as a stop between coastal stays.