If you’re looking for an epic journey, then Rail & Sail Croatia is for you. Travel all the way from London to Dubrovnik by train in a week, take a yacht to explore the Croatian Islands, then go back to London passing through 4 European capitals!
This is a two-in-one trip – you’ll explore big European cities independently for two weeks before being guided through Croatian islands with a group of like-minded people! If that’s not enough, you’ll also have the opportunity to take part in unforgettable activities such as paddle boarding, mountain biking or snorkelling!
Route: London Paris Munich Zagreb Split Dubrovnik Croatia Sailing Split Ljubljana Vienna Berlin Amsterdam London
Age: 20 – 35 year olds
Nights: 21
Availability: Because the sailing component of the trip leaves once a week, this trip can only start on a Friday and only runs from May to September. As we have to check availability of each sailing departure, please await a response to your enquiry before booking any transport or flights.
Transport: This route is a 22 day trip. You’ll spend 14 nights in your accommodation, 1 on a night train and 6 nights on a yacht. The rest of your journeys will be carried out by train or bus during the day.
Customisable: Interested in the sailing but the current train journeys don’t work for you? Get in touch with us at tripexperts@euroventure.com and we’ll be happy to work with you to create a trip around your needs!
Additional costs: Please note that an additional payment of €120 per person is payable on the day of the yacht departure in the local currency – this covers your fuel and marina fees for the week.
Sustainability: This trip only creates 156.5kg of carbon emissions. Flying the same route would create 1069.4kg! ♻️
Reviews: All independent reviews
On our 3 week Rail & Sail Croatian adventure you’ll explore Europe from one end to the other! Starting in London, travel through Europe to the Croatian coastal city of Dubrovnik and continue your journey with a one-week sailing trip around Croatia and its many islands and inlets. You’ll have a full day in each city, meaning you’ve got plenty of time for sight-seeing.
Start your trip in London and hop on-board the Eurostar to begin your journey to Paris.
Arrive ready to explore the French capital. By day, tick off the classics: the Eiffel Tower, The Arc de Triomphe, the Champs Elysees and the Louvre. By night, settle into a cosy cafe with a glass of French wine or local beer and bask in the atmosphere of pretty Paris. If you’ve seen it all before, head to the Pompidou Centre for your modern art fix.
From here, head East into Germany to the Bavarian capital of Munich. Famous for beer gardens, green parks, grand Gothic buildings and, of course, Oktoberfest. Spend a day exploring this beautiful city before relaxing in one of the many traditional beerhalls.
Next up, you’ll take a night train and head to Croatia, calling first at the vibrant capital of Zagreb, before continuing to Split for a stopover on the coast. Have an afternoon relaxing on the beach or check out Diocletian’s Palace for your hit of culture.
Then it’s time to set off for the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Dubrovnik (home of Game of Thrones), where your sailing trip begins. Heading slowly back towards Split, you’ll explore 8 cities on 5 different islands where you can enjoy activities such as paddle-boarding, swimming or snorkelling – you can even learn to sail with your professional skipper! But don’t worry, you’ll also have plenty of time to explore these islands at you own pace!
After a week of sailing, you’ll make your way back home, starting off with another night in Split and heading to Ljubljana the next morning. During your stay in Slovenia’s picturesque capital, why not head to the glorious Lake Bled, just 45 minutes away? This is one of Slovenia’s (if not all of Europe’s) most picturesque destinations – perfect for bringing home those awe-inspiring holiday snaps!
Then spend a couple of days in sophisticated Vienna and soak up the culture with traditional Viennese Schnitzel and classical music. This often-overlooked city is teeming with palaces and historical buildings to explore. After some sightseeing, grab a slice of apple strudel and a coffee before you head out to explore your next destination…
Continue to Berlin and start your trip by passing Checkpoint Charlie – an old military checkpoint which once separated East and West Berlin. Wander through the city on a historical walking tour or enjoy the famously alternative nightlife. Filled with everything from edgy clubs to truly bizarre bars, you won’t be disappointed. If you’re lucky, you might even get into Berghain!
Next up is Amsterdam. The capital of the Netherlands is home to a liberal atmosphere, friendly people, world class cultural heritage and incredible architecture. Hire a bike and visit some amazing museums (our favourites are the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum), before hitting up its trendy bars, famous coffee-shops and the (in)famous Red-Light District. Amsterdam is unique and endlessly fascinating!
Finally, after this breath-taking 3 weeks Rail & Sail mega-holiday, you’ll get to rest your weary bones on the Eurostar back to London and on to your hometown.
Rail
– All overland transport tickets from the first to the last city, as shown in the key.
– All possible seat reservations on high-speed rail, night trains or ferries.
– Accommodation in top-rated, centrally located hostels or hotels, tested by us.
– Walking directions between the stations and your booked accommodation.
– Optional walking tours, pub crawls and other activities at our partner hostels.
– A personalised travel booklet with maps, language guides, top tips, and more.
– Exclusive discounts on attractions across Europe.
– Peace of mind with alternative travel included if there is a strike or similar disruption.
– Access to our 24hr emergency phone number while you’re away.
Sail
– Accommodation onboard a yacht
– Fresh breakfast and lunch everyday
– Stand Up Paddle Board, dinghy and snorkelling gear
– Tea, coffee and drinking water
– A professional skipper
– A ‘Guest Experience Leader’
Rail
– Meals/Drinks
Both
– Public transport tickets in each location
– Towel/Toiletries, though towels can be rented at hostel reception
– Airport transfers
– Transport back home (eg flights)
Route: London Paris Munich Zagreb Split Dubrovnik Croatia Sailing Split Ljubljana Vienna Berlin Amsterdam London
Age: 20 – 35 year olds
Nights: 21
Availability: Because the sailing component of the trip leaves once a week, this trip can only start on a Friday and only runs from May to September. As we have to check availability of each sailing departure, please await a response to your enquiry before booking any transport or flights.
Transport: This route is a 22 day trip. You’ll spend 14 nights in your accommodation, 1 on a night train and 6 nights on a yacht. The rest of your journeys will be carried out by train or bus during the day.
Customisable: Interested in the sailing but the current train journeys don’t work for you? Get in touch with us at tripexperts@euroventure.com and we’ll be happy to work with you to create a trip around your needs!
Additional costs: Please note that an additional payment of €120 per person is payable on the day of the yacht departure in the local currency – this covers your fuel and marina fees for the week.
Sustainability: This trip only creates 156.5kg of carbon emissions. Flying the same route would create 1069.4kg! ♻️
Reviews: All independent reviews
Timing not quite right? Check out these versions of the route.
Alternative Durations: Timing not quite right? Check out these versions of the route.
Start your trip in London with the Eurostar from St Pancras. If you’re travelling on an Interrail pass for the trip, you can use this to get from your hometown to London for free, as long as it’s on the same day as your departure! This does not apply if you have individual tickets in PDF form.
Train to Paris – 4 hours
Paris is a byword for romance, a synonym for style, and the epitome of elegance. The pride of France and one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Paris needs little introduction, from the Eiffel Tower to the Pont Neuf, it bedazzles visitors and oozes charisma at every turn.
Highlights
See the Mona Lisa at the Louvre
Watch a cabaret act at the famous Moulin Rouge
Experience the colourful nightlife of the Marais
Trains to Munich – 6 hours
The capital of Bavaria and Germany’s second city will draw you in with its elegance and attractions to match the big names in Europe, with its pedestrianised city centre and impressive monuments, museums and art galleries; as well as beer (and plenty of it) at Oktoberfest.
Highlights
Learn about the city at the Stadtmuseum
Walk across the sprawling Englisher Garten
Join the Bavarian beer festival of Oktoberfest
Night Train to Zagreb – 10 hours
A city of flowers and fountains with a curious Mediterranean feel, Zagreb is a year-round destination with a museum-café-theatre culture by day and a lakeside party by night. In winter, a tram ride out of the city provides scenic hiking and skiing opportunities.
Highlights
Catch a 360-view from the Lotrščak Tower
Stroll through the beautiful Mirogoj cemetery
Have a coffee in Kino Europa, Zagreb’s oldest cinema
Train to Split – 6.5 hours
Even though Split is a port for many Croatian islands, sitting elegantly between the Adriatic and the mountains, the country’s second city has two UNESCO World Heritage sites within its walls, a marble waterfront walkway, and a buzzing atmosphere around its bars and pubs.
Highlights
See the amazing ruin of Diocletian’s Palace
Admire the city as you approach it from the sea
Stroll along the glittering waterfront
Bus to Dubrovnik – 5 hours
Dubrovnik is a pearl with its wonderful marble streets and Baroque buildings. You won’t be anything but awe-struck at its beauty, a medieval city perched against the Adriatic and positively beaming with charm. This is where you’ll start your week of sailing.
Sail from Dubrovnik to Split in a yacht and discover both popular and secluded islands. From the small fishing town of Vrboka, on the Hvar Island, to the Mljet National Park, you will be going back home with a lot of breath-taking memories!
Itinerary
Day 1 – Dubrovnik to Sipan
Before setting sail, you’ll have time to spend the morning walking the walls of old town to capture all of the iconic sites and film locations. Or simply wander the cobblestone streets to take in the sights, smells & sounds of this small city before checking in at the marina. As we take off, we’ll sail by the infamous Dubrovnik walls for the best views. Then get to know your new family as we we set sail for Sipan, the largest of the Elaphiti islands. The short sail means you’ll have plenty of time to explore secluded bays, go paddleboarding, or laze in the sun on deck. In the evening we’ll have sunset drinks and dinner at a local Konoba.
Day 2 – Mljet
Today we are headed to the green island of Mljet, the most unspoilt of Croatia’s Islands. Explore the National Park by bike and the translucent salt lakes by kayak, home to the Mediterranean’s largest coral reef. Don’t miss out on the Benedictine Monastery in the middle of the lakes or the hidden caves on its shores.
Day 3 – Korčula
After a morning of swin stops and sailing, we arrive at the old fishing town of Lumbarda on the island of Korčula. Make your way into Korčula old town to meander the maze-like backstreets & discover where famous explorer Marco Polo was born. Then climb the ladder to Massimo’s rooftop bar for epic views and sunset cocktails.
Day 4 – Lovište
Discover a hidden treasure in the Peljesac Peninsula, hand-picked for you to laze away the day. Enjoy the crystal-clear water in the wide lagoon and unwind on-board your yacht or floaty. Tan, salty and calm, leave the ocean to tuck into a Croatian meal and enjoy a superb sunset followed by an evening under the stars.
Day 5 – Vrbroska, Hvar
We arrive this afternoon in this peaceful old 15th century fishing town, relaxing and exploring before our evening begins. Hvar boasts ancient ruins, medieval churches, poet Petar Hektorovic’s 16th-century Tvrdalj castle – and fantastic nightlife. Start the evening at the top of the Hvar Fortress then wander into town for a night to remember!
Day 6 – Stari Grad, Hvar
After breakfast and a morning swim, we set sail for one of the oldest towns in Europe, Stari Grad. We’ll head to an organic farm and winery, Hora Farm, where everything is grown and produced on the farm. Enjoy sampling some of the best local wine varieties as you watch the sun go down in this idyllic and UNESCO listed countryside.
Day 7 – Split
After a final swim we’ll sail back to our marina located in Trogir. Arriving by afternoon you’ll have plenty of time to explore more of the historic architecture of Croatia. Discover nearby old town Trogir or jump on our transfer into Split Old Town to stroll along tree-lined streets, get lost in the cobblestone alleys and wander Diocletian’s Palace. Or meet up with the your crew from the week in the thriving restaurant and bar scene.
Fit in anything you missed on your first night here, or spend the day lounging on the beach, we won’t blame you!
Bus to Ljubljana – 10 hours
Ljubljana is a colourful chocolate box city with a café culture that brings to it a festival atmosphere all summer long. See the castle perched above the city or take a day trip out by train to the picturesque Lake Bled, where you can hire a rowing boat and visit the island in the middle.
Highlights
See the 16th Century castle on the hill
Wander through the colourful streets
Take in 360 views from an art-deco skyscraper terrace
Train to Vienna – 6.5 hours
Vienna is crisp, clean and chic with its biggest draw factor being the multitude of classical palaces and grand imperial buildings. Whether you’re into your royal history or not, the sheer scale of it here will be encapsulating for all, whilst not forgetting the great bars and eateries.
Highlights
Visit the Spanish Riding School of Vienna
Eat real apple strudel and wiener schnitzel
Go to a classical concert in a city renowned for music
Trains to Berlin – 9 hours
Berlin is the alternative, cool kid of Europe and a pro at being edgy. It’s how people dress, their liberal attitudes, the graffiti, the skaters and BMXers, the art, the clubs, and the food. Berlin is also crammed full of fascinating WWII history around every corner.
Highlights
See a section of the old Berlin Wall
Climb the dome of the renovated Reichstag
Discover the nightlife of Schoneberg and Kreuzberg
Train to Amsterdam – 7 hours
Despite being credited with certain recreational pastimes, there is actually a lot more to the city than the stereotypical picture, with its abundance of engaging museums, beautiful townhouses, and canals. Find out what makes Amsterdam the beating heart of the Netherlands.
Highlights
Visit the Van Gogh Museum
Discover Europe’s biggest historic centre by pedal
Take a tour of the Red Light District
Train to Brussels & Eurostar to London – 6 hours
End your trip in London or use your Interrail pass to travel for free back to your nearest station on your day of arrival.
Your return transport from London is covered by the Eurostar, and you can also use your Interrail pass to travel for free from your nearest station to and from London on the same day as departure and arrival.
On our 3 week Rail & Sail Croatian adventure you’ll explore Europe from one end to the other! Starting in London, travel through Europe to the Croatian coastal city of Dubrovnik and continue your journey with a one-week sailing trip around Croatia and its many islands and inlets. You’ll have a full day in each city, meaning you’ve got plenty of time for sight-seeing.
Start your trip in London and hop on-board the Eurostar to begin your journey to Paris.
Arrive ready to explore the French capital. By day, tick off the classics: the Eiffel Tower, The Arc de Triomphe, the Champs Elysees and the Louvre. By night, settle into a cosy cafe with a glass of French wine or local beer and bask in the atmosphere of pretty Paris. If you’ve seen it all before, head to the Pompidou Centre for your modern art fix.
From here, head East into Germany to the Bavarian capital of Munich. Famous for beer gardens, green parks, grand Gothic buildings and, of course, Oktoberfest. Spend a day exploring this beautiful city before relaxing in one of the many traditional beerhalls.
Next up, you’ll take a night train and head to Croatia, calling first at the vibrant capital of Zagreb, before continuing to Split for a stopover on the coast. Have an afternoon relaxing on the beach or check out Diocletian’s Palace for your hit of culture.
Then it’s time to set off for the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Dubrovnik (home of Game of Thrones), where your sailing trip begins. Heading slowly back towards Split, you’ll explore 8 cities on 5 different islands where you can enjoy activities such as paddle-boarding, swimming or snorkelling – you can even learn to sail with your professional skipper! But don’t worry, you’ll also have plenty of time to explore these islands at you own pace!
After a week of sailing, you’ll make your way back home, starting off with another night in Split and heading to Ljubljana the next morning. During your stay in Slovenia’s picturesque capital, why not head to the glorious Lake Bled, just 45 minutes away? This is one of Slovenia’s (if not all of Europe’s) most picturesque destinations – perfect for bringing home those awe-inspiring holiday snaps!
Then spend a couple of days in sophisticated Vienna and soak up the culture with traditional Viennese Schnitzel and classical music. This often-overlooked city is teeming with palaces and historical buildings to explore. After some sightseeing, grab a slice of apple strudel and a coffee before you head out to explore your next destination…
Continue to Berlin and start your trip by passing Checkpoint Charlie – an old military checkpoint which once separated East and West Berlin. Wander through the city on a historical walking tour or enjoy the famously alternative nightlife. Filled with everything from edgy clubs to truly bizarre bars, you won’t be disappointed. If you’re lucky, you might even get into Berghain!
Next up is Amsterdam. The capital of the Netherlands is home to a liberal atmosphere, friendly people, world class cultural heritage and incredible architecture. Hire a bike and visit some amazing museums (our favourites are the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum), before hitting up its trendy bars, famous coffee-shops and the (in)famous Red-Light District. Amsterdam is unique and endlessly fascinating!
Finally, after this breath-taking 3 weeks Rail & Sail mega-holiday, you’ll get to rest your weary bones on the Eurostar back to London and on to your hometown.