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The Ultimate Luxury Gold Souvenir Guide to Europe

August 21, 2023 by kjbirtles No Comments

Europe is a treasure trove of luxury handcrafted products, from the haute couture houses of Paris to the artisans of Italy using ancient techniques. Each product tells a story of the region’s history, tradition and craftsmanship and is a beautiful way to remember your travels through the different corners of Europe. But with so many different crafts and products, what should you really buy? The Luxury Gold souvenir guide to Europe is a great place to start. From crystal and jewelry to clothing and decor to chocolate and wine, dive into our souvenir guide and discover some of the most exceptional and authentic luxury souvenirs to buy at the source in Europe. 

Swiss watches – Geneva, Switzerland

Geneva has remained the heartbeat of the watchmaking industry since the 16th century.

Where to buy

Patek Philippe and Rolex are two titans calling Switzerland home. Vacheron Constantin is also renowned for its intricate designs, exemplary craftmanship and precise timekeeping.

Read more: Roger Federer, Trevor Noah and the timeless beauty of Switzerland

rolex watch

Waterford crystal – Waterford, Ireland

Since the 18th century, the city of Waterford has been synonymous with world-class crystal work.

Where to buy

The Waterford Crystal factory is the very best place to buy authentic Waterford crystal from the source.

Waterford Crystal

French perfume – Grasse, France

Famed as the perfume capital of the world, Grasse is nestled in the hills of the French Riviera.

Where to buy

Visit the world-famous Fragonard, the French perfumery establish in 1926 in Grasse. Here you can develop your own custom fragrance that captures your essence. Global luxury fashion houses Chanel and Dior have their roots in Grasse, producing iconic fragrances.

Belgian chocolate – Brussels, Belgium

No European souvenir guide is complete without chocolate – and Brussels is globally acclaimed for its superior chocolate production.

Where to buy

Godiva and Neuhaus are the shining stars of Belgian chocolates. You might also like to purchase a bespoke chocolate box from Belgian chocolatier Pierre Marcolini.

Read more: Where to find the world’s best hot chocolate

Belgian chocolate truffles souvenir guide

Scandinavian furniture – Copenhagen, Denmark

Embracing minimalism, functionality, and aesthetic appeal, the Scandinavian design movement of the mid-20th century redefined modern interiors.

Where to buy

Denmark’s Fritz Hansen and Carl Hansen & Søn are iconic brands representing luxurious design and comfort. A favorite piece is the Wishbone Chair by Hans J. Wegner, as it embodies the elegance and functionality of Scandinavian design. 

Scandinavian furniture

Italian leather – Florence, Italy

Tuscany, particularly Florence, has been synonymous with premium leather goods and craftsmanship since the Middle Ages.

Where to buy

Since the iconic Gucci brand was established in Florence in 1921, it has become a global luxury icon. You can also find luxury leather shoes, bags, belts & accessories from this Ferragamo, a renowned luxury Florentine fashion house.

You can also visit the historic Scuola del Cuoio (School of Leather) in Florence. Not only can you purchase handcrafted leather items, but you can also watch artisans at work, keeping alive age-old techniques.

Read more: Forget bricks and mortar: 7 luxury fashion brands that have branched into experiential hospitality

Scottish whisky – Scotland

There are a few different European liquors included in this souvenir guide, including Scotland’s famous whisky. The country’s pristine waters and unique climate have given birth to the world’s most acclaimed whiskies.

Where to buy

Scotland is home to five whisky regions – Campbeltown, Highland, Islay, Lowland and Speyside – each offering a different spin on this beloved dram. In Speyside, visit the legendary like Macallan and Glenfiddich. Indulge in a whisky tasting at Balvenie, one of the few distilleries still practicing traditional whisky-making methods from malting the barley to bottle. If you prefer smoky whiskies, head to Laphroaig and Ardbeg distilleries in Islay. 

Read more: The Luxury Gold guide to the finest Michelin star restaurants in Edinburgh

Scottish whiskies souvenir guide

British tailoring – Savile Row, London, England

Tucked away in Mayfair, Savile Row is the mecca of bespoke tailoring with a history dating back to the 18th century. Visit this iconic street when you embark on one of our luxury England vacations.

Where to buy

Prestigious houses like Gieves & Hawkes, Holland & Sherry, and Henry Poole & Co. have dressed royalty, celebrities and dignitaries. For a blend of traditional and modern design, consider Ozwald Boateng.

Read more: Our Favourite Legendary and Lesser-Known Shopping Streets

Savile Row London

Dutch diamond jewelry – Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam’s diamond district has been dazzling the world for over four centuries.

Where to buy

Gassan and Coster Diamonds offer breathtaking gemstones. You could also commission a unique piece from Royal Asscher, a brand with regal history.

Perugian textiles – Perugia, Italy

Set in the heart of Italy, Perugia is home to a rich history of textile weaving, especially famed for its intricate table linens and lacework. 

Where to buy

Many of the region’s fabrics are still handwoven by local artisans in small workshops. Visit the Giuditta Brozzetti Museum-Lab, on our Ultimate Italy tour, and see how master weaver Marta Cucchia is keeping this ancient tradition alive.

Read more: Travel Experiences that can change the world

Marta Cucchia Perugian weaving

Delftware – Delft, Netherlands

This iconic blue and white pottery has been crafted in the Dutch town of Delft since the 16th century.

Where to buy

Royal Delft is the leading brand preserving this age-old tradition, and you can buy beautiful hand-painted pieces here.

Delft pottery Netherlands

French skincare – Paris, France

France, particularly Paris, has been the epicenter of beauty and skincare for centuries. With a philosophy that prioritizes preventative care, French skincare is designed to nourish and protect the skin. When in France, indulging in its skincare isn’t just a purchase; it’s a ritual and an experience of beauty passed down through the ages.

Where to buy

Brands like Lancôme, Clarins and Caudalie have set international standards in skincare, with products sourced from the finest ingredients. You can also dive into the luxurious world of Biologique Recherche. Their personalized approach and their signature product, Lotion P50, have achieved cult status among skincare enthusiasts worldwide. For a truly authentic experience, visit their flagship spa in Paris and immerse yourself in a personalized skincare ritual.

Murano glass – Venice, Italy

Just off Venice, Murano Island has been the center of opulent glassmaking since the 13th century. You’ll experience a glass-blowing workshop in Murano on our Ultimate Italy tour.

Where to buy
Brands such as Barovier & Toso, Venini, and Seguso have been producing Murano glass for generations. You can also get custom pieces from master artisans such as Simone Cenedese or Pino Signoretto.

Read more: Masters at work: These artisanal jobs hark back to an older time

Murano glass workshop Venice

Norwegian knitwear – Oslo, Norway

With its chilly climate, Norway has developed a unique style of woollen knitwear, especially the iconic Norwegian sweaters. While these famous patterns and designs are copied around the world, you can’t beat the original and some of Norway’s most iconic brands cannot be found outside Scandinavia. 

Where to buy

Dale of Norway and Oleana are known for their traditional and luxurious knitwear. Marius, with its distinctive pattern, is another Nordic emblem.

Champagne – Champagne, France

Champagne is the only region in the world that produces authentic Champagne.

Where to buy

Dom Pérignon, Moët & Chandon, and Veuve Clicquot are legendary names, and you can also tour the cellars of Krug for a delightfully bubbly experience.

Read more: Best of the bubbles: the en vogue champagnes to sip this holiday season

French champagne

Mozart Balls – Salzburg, Austria

Every good souvenir guide needs some sweet treats. Born in the Austrian town of Salzburg, these are delightful chocolate bonbons filled with marzipan and nougat.

Where to buy

Get your Mozart Balls at the original Salzburg Mozartkugeln by Fürst. They offer the most genuine experience of this sweet treat. 

Read more: From London to Tokyo: Where to sample the world’s best street food

Camembert cheese – Camembert, France

This soft, creamy cheese hails from the town of Camembert in Normandy. As raw milk cheese is illegal in the US, You can’t find authentic camembert in the United States since raw milk cheese is illegal there, so if you want to taste the real thing, be sure to pick some up in France. 

Where to buy

You can source genuine “Camembert de Normandie” anywhere in the town of Camembert, but ensure it bears the AOC/AOP label.

Read more: Top Vacation Spots for Cheese Lovers

camembert cheese france

English bone china – Stoke-on-Trent, England

The potteries in Stoke-on-Trent have been crafting fine china since the 17th century.

Where to buy

Wedgwood and Royal Doulton epitomize English elegance. You can also seek out hand-painted pieces from Spode.

Lindt chocolate – Zürich, Switzerland

Switzerland is a chocolate paradise and Lindt is a legend of its chocolate history. Now a globally adored brand, Lindt and its Sprüngli factory was founded in 1845 in Zurich. 

Where to buy

Head straight to Lindt’s Home of Chocolate in Zürich, where you’ll find the biggest Lindt Chocolate Shop in the world. You should also visit Confiserie Sprüngli, loved for its luxurious chocolates and Luxemburgerli macarons.

chocolate fountain at Home of Lindt Zurich

Turkish rugs and carpets – Istanbul, Turkey

Turkey is one of the best places in the world to buy textiles and carpets, with a rich heritage in carpet weaving dating back to the Seljuk era. 

Where to buy

Hereke, Isparta and Milas are iconic names in Turkish carpet-making, with intricate designs narrating unique stories.

Read more: Hiding in Plain Sight: Incredible Artworks You Can Discover at Luxury Gold Hotels

carpet market Turkey

Bohemian crystal – Bohemia, Czech Republic

The Bohemia region of the Czech Republic has a sparkling history of producing high-quality crystal since the 13th century.

Where to buy

Moser and Preciosa are pioneers in Czech crystal craft. You can also find mesmerizing artisanal pieces at Rückl Crystal.

Read more: The Luxury Gold guide to discovering statement art pieces on your travels

Port wine – Douro Valley, Portugal

This beloved fortified wine is exclusively produced in the Douro Valley, making it the very best place to buy port wine at the source.

Where to buy
Head to the historic houses of Taylor’s and Sandeman or pick up a vintage bottle from Quinta do Noval.

Read more: Harry’s Bars: The Story of Europe’s Two Most Glamorous Watering Holes

port wine souvenir guide

Saffron – La Mancha, Spain

The Spanish La Mancha region is renowned for its high-quality saffron, the world’s most prized spice. The region uses traditional methods of harvesting and roasting which all give the saffron its distinct quality. While saffron is notoriously expensive, you can find authentic saffron here for a fraction of US prices in Spain.  

Where to buy

You can find saffron at local farmer’s markets. Look for the “D.O. Azafrán de La Mancha” which certifies the authenticity and supreme quality of the saffron.

saffron

Amber – Gdańsk, Poland

Nicknamed the amber capital of the world, Gdańsk is the heart of the amber-rich Baltic coast.

Where to buy

You’ll find dozens of boutiques selling amber in Gdańsk. Fir handcrafted amber jewelry, head to Art7, known for authenticity and design.

Cognac – Cognac, France

From the town bearing its name, Cognac is France’s most luxurious brandy. If you’re a Cognac fan, be sure to buy it at the source on your next trip to France.

Where to buy

Global icons like Hennessy, Rémy Martin, and Courvoisier have defined the essence of Cognac. Rémy Martin, in particular, produces the only Fine Champagne Cognac. You can also visit the exceptional Delamain, which offers vintages and blends that are a connoisseur’s dream.

Read more: Our Favorite Classic Cocktails, and the Timeless Hotels To Try Them At

Hennessy cognac

Portuguese cork – Algarve, Portugal

With more than a third of Portugal covered in cork oak trees, it makes sense that it’s the world’s largest producer of cork, with Algarve at its heart. The material is used for everything from plugging wine bottles to luxury goods like bags and home decor. 

Where to buy

Pelcor and Artipel are known for transforming cork into luxury goods. Rutz is another brand creating vegan cork footwear, blending sustainability with style.

portuguese cork

Swarovski crystal – Wattens, Austria

Founded in 1895, the iconic crystal producer Swarovski transformed crystal into a brilliant industry in Austria.

Where to buy

Visit Swarovski Crystal Worlds in Wattens for a dazzling and immersive crystal experience.

Olive oil – Crete, Greece

While you can find premium locally-grown olive oil all over Greece, the sun-kissed groves of Crete produce some of the world’s finest olive oils.

Where to buy

You’ll find several family-owned olive oil estates across the island. Head to the town of Kolymvari, which produces the koroneiki olive, harvested from centuries-old olive groves. Olive oil producers here even hold the PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) certificate. 

Read more: Pearls of the Adriatic: Step Aboard Europe’s Most Glamorous Cruise

olive oil

German craft beer – Bavaria, Germany

Bavaria, the heartland of German beer culture, is home to Brauerei Weihenstephan, the world’s oldest still-operating brewery.

Where to buy

Breweries like Weihenstephaner and Erdinger offer traditional Bavarian flavors. You can even purchase a limited edition brew from G. Schneider & Sohn, the masters of wheat beer.

Spanish leather – Ubrique, Spain

Ubrique has a rich history in leather craftsmanship, known for its superior quality.

Where to buy

Loewe and Castañer both have Spanish roots, creating excellent leather products.

Discover all the destinations included in this souvenir guide at Luxury Gold.

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Reading time: 11 min
Europe, Luxury Journeys

Harry’s Bars: The Story of Europe’s Two Most Glamorous Watering Holes

August 18, 2023 by kjbirtles No Comments

There are several bars across the world that carry the Harry’s Bar name, but only two of them are true originals – Harry’s Bar in Venice and Harry’s New York Bar in Paris. While the two bars were both opened in the early 20th century, created several iconic cocktails, and have been frequented by some of the 20th century’s biggest icons, that’s where their similarities end. The two bars are actually not connected in any way, besides sharing a name – and the love of Ernest Hemingway. 

We delve into the different stories of the original Harry’s Bars, and how they came to be two of Europe’s most glamorous watering holes. 

Read more: Our Favorite Classic Cocktails, and the Timeless Hotels To Try Them At

Harry's New York Bar in Paris

Photo credit: @harrysbar_theoriginal

Harry's Bar in Venice

Photo credit: @cipriani

Harry’s New York Bar – Paris, France

Disregard the misleading name – Harry’s New York Bar is a true Parisian institution. Nestled in the heart of Paris, not far from the iconic Opéra Garnier, Harry’s New York Bar stands as a monument to history, culture, and the fine art of mixology. 

Founded in 1911 by American jockey Tod Sloan, the bar was originally called “The New York Bar.” Sloan had the interior shipped over from a bar in New York, giving it an authentic American feel right in the heart of Paris. Harry MacElhone, a young barman, took over in 1923 and added his first name to the title. The legendary “Harry’s New York Bar” was born, and it’s still owned and run by the MacElhone family.

Over the years, it became the glamorous watering hole of choice for expatriates, tourists, and locals who appreciated the taste of classic cocktails and the allure of American jazz. Today, visiting this century-old establishment is like stepping back in time. The ambient lighting, original wooden panels, over 400 classic drinks, and the familiar tinkling of cocktail glasses transport you to an era when Hemingway, Fitzgerald, and Porter were regular patrons.

Visit Harry’s New York Bar in Paris on: Ultimate Southern France

Harry's New York Bar in Paris

Photo credit: @harrysbar_theoriginal

Harry's New York Bar in Paris

Photo credit: @harrysbar_theoriginal

A cocktail atelier

Harry’s New York Bar was the birthplace of several iconic drinks. The most famous among them is the Bloody Mary, said to have been concocted in the 1920s by Fernand Petiot, a bartender at Harry’s. Their impressive cocktail repertoire also includes the White Lady, the French 75 and the Side Car, legacies of the skill and creativity of the bartenders who’ve graced Harry’s counters.

Read more: 9 essential cocktails to drink (and where to drink them) in New Orleans

Harry's New York Bar in Paris

Photo credit: @harrysbar_theoriginal

Harry's New York Bar in Paris

Photo credit: @harrysbar_theoriginal

Cultural epicenter

This Parisian institution was a jazz oasis and something of a second home for the Lost Generation. Throughout the roaring ‘20s, the bar played host to a stream of literary and artistic figures, including Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Gertrude Stein, and Humphrey Bogart. 

With a crowd like that, it’s little wonder Harry’s New York Bar has been immortalized in popular culture. Hemingway mentioned the bar in “A Moveable Feast” and “The Sun Also Rises.” The famous song “I Love Paris” by Cole Porter was supposedly penned in the downstairs piano bar.

Read more: Hiding in Plain Sight: Incredible Artworks You Can Discover at Luxury Gold Hotels

Harry's New York Bar in Paris

Photo credit: @harrysbar_theoriginal

Harry's New York Bar in Paris

Photo credit: @harrysbar_theoriginal

Harry’s Bar – Venice, Italy

Ten years later and 690 miles away, another institution was born under the same name. Located just a few steps away from Piazza San Marco in the heart of Venice, stands the historic establishment, Harry’s Bar. Founded in 1931 by Giuseppe Cipriani, Harry’s Bar isn’t just a watering hole; it’s a legend of 20th-century history, literature and art, and Venetian culinary traditions. 

The story of Harry’s Bar in Venice began with a chance encounter. A young Giuseppe Cipriani, then a bartender at Venice’s Hotel Europa, extended a loan to a stranded American named Harry Pickering. When Pickering returned a few years later to repay Cipriani with interest, the two decided to invest in a small bar – and Harry’s Bar was born.

Discover Harry’s Bar in Venice on: Ultimate Italy

Harry's Bar in Venice

Photo credit: @cipriani

Harry's Bar in Venice

Photo credit: @cipriani

Birthplace of the Bellini

While many come to Harry’s Bar for its history, others come for a taste of its legendary Bellini. A mix of Prosecco and peach purée, this refreshing cocktail was invented by Giuseppe Cipriani himself in the 1940s. Inspired by a 15th-century Venetian painting by Giovanni Bellini, the drink’s pink glow reminded Cipriani of the artist’s palette. The Bellini has since become an iconic cocktail, enjoyed worldwide but never quite as special as when sipped in its birthplace.

Read more: Dine, Sleep, Do: How to spend a blissful 24 hours in Venice

Harry's Bar in Venice

Photo credit: @cipriani

Harry's Bar in Venice

Photo credit: @cipriani

Cultural icon

Since its inception, Harry’s Bar attracted a roster of artists, writers, and celebrities. The likes of Ernest Hemingway, Katherine Hepburn, Charlie Chaplin, Truman Capote, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Orson Welles were regular patrons. Hemingway, in particular, considered it his favorite watering hole, often describing its intimate atmosphere in his works. The bar’s drawcard wasn’t just the alcohol or the delicious meals, but the sense of camaraderie and creativity. Conversations sparked here would often find their way into novels, films, and art.

Despite its celebrity visitors and renowned cocktails, the beauty of Harry’s Bar today lies in its simplicity. With crisp linen tablecloths and wooden chairs, the original decor allows its rich history to shine. The food remains a winner too, with sumptuous risottos and fresh seafood paying tribute to the city’s culinary scene. 

In 2001, the Italian Ministry for Cultural Affairs declared Harry’s Bar a national landmark. While the designation is a nod to its historical significance, the true testament is the endless crowd of visitors who flock to its doors year after year. 

Read more: The Isle of Dreams: How to Spend the Perfect Day in Capri

Harry's Bar in Venice

Photo credit: @cipriani

Harry's Bar in Venice

Photo credit: @cipriani

The Legacy of Harry’s Bars

While the two bars had completely different origins, they shared many of the same values (and patrons!) arising from the Lost Generation of the early 20th century; music, art, literature, and good company and stories shared over excellent food and drinks. 

These bars aren’t just places to grab a cocktail. They’re historic institutions that inspired literary and artistic giants and global gastronomic traditions. They’re a portal to a bygone era, where the walls tell tales of Jazz Age soirees, literary debates and the art of a well-made drink. 

As both Paris and Venice continue to involve, Harry’s Bars remain true to their roots, reminding us of the timeless glamor of a great bar. The next time you’re in Paris or Venice, be sure to swing by Harry’s, order a classic cocktail, and soak up a century’s worth of stories.

Read more: Wine and Dine: A Guide to Private Wine Pairing in Italy’s Most Exquisite Vineyards

Banner photo credit: @harrysbar_theoriginal

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Reading time: 6 min
Europe, Luxury Journeys

Pearls of the Adriatic: Step Aboard Europe’s Most Glamorous Cruise

August 16, 2023 by kjbirtles No Comments
Dubrovnik Croatia Europe's most glamorous cruise

Set sail into the awe-inspiring landscapes of Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast with this luxury European cruise as part of our Croatia & the Dalmatian Coast luxury tour. You’ll kick back on the lavish Rhapsody yacht as you float from stunning islands to ancient towns, with culinary delights, glamorous nightlife, and unique local experiences in between. Dive into the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic, dine in world-class restaurants at sunset, and soak in the hot tub on deck… This is Europe’s most glamorous cruise.

Experience it: Croatia & the Dalmatian Coast

Bol Croatia

Your cruise ship

You’ll cruise the Adriatic for a week aboard the new MV Rhapsody Deluxe Superior yacht-like cruiser. Built to the highest specifications with modern amenities such as air-conditioned cabins, the Rhapsody is a truly befitting vessel for what is Europe’s most glamorous cruise. Whether you want to relax in your cosy private cabin, or relax on the large sundeck in the hot tub or chaise loungers, you’ll feel right at home on the Rhapsody.

Read more: 9 Reasons to visit Croatia & the Dalmatian Coast

Split Croatia

Day 1: Split to Primošten

The cruise element of this tour begins in the ancient city of Split. Set on the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea, Split is renowned as the gateway to the stunning Dalmatian Islands, which you’ll visit on your cruise. But Split is more than just an entry point. It’s also famed for its beautiful beaches and ancient history dating all the way back to the 2nd and 3rd century BC.

Before boarding the cruise ship, you’ll join a Local Expert on a tour of Split. You’ll visit the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace, between the late 3rd and early 4th centuries AD by the Roman Emperor Diocletian. This grand, fortress-like palace was intended as a retirement residence for the emperor and today is one of the most important architectural ruins on the Adriatic Coast. You’ll then wander through the labyrinthine streets of Split’s Old Town, marvelling at the ancient Roman architecture. See the Golden Gate, St. Duje’s and the Temple of Jupiter before heading to the port.

After boarding the boat, we’ll cruise to the picture-perfect town of Primošten, enjoying a delicious dinner onboard and taking in the glorious sunset. It’s the most idyllic way to kickstart your week aboard Europe’s most glamorous cruise.

Read more: Sun, Sand and Sequins: Why Summer is the Best Time to Visit These Glamorous Coastal Cities

Primosten Croatia

Day 2: Primošten to Kornati National Park to Telašćica

Today we’ll sail through Kornati National Park’s spectacular maze of islands, cliffs, ruins and Roman villas. Kornati encompasses 89 islands across 85 square miles, making it the densest archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea. One of the park’s most striking features is its dramatic, towering cliffs, known locally as ‘crowns’. Some of these cliffs rise over 262 feet above the sea and drop down 295 feet below the surface. The islands have been inhabited since prehistoric times, and you’ll see many ruins, such as the Tureta Fort on the island of Kornat, that date back to the Byzantine era. Keep your eyes peeled for ancient Illyrian fortresses, Roman villas, and medieval settlements. 

Kornati National Park Croatia

Beneath the surface of the water, the park is home to rich marine biodiversity, including coral reefs, colorful fish, and sponges, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. You’ll have time to take a dip in the crystal clear waters before we cruise to our next destination – the beautiful Telašćica Nature Park. 

The natural wonders of Telašćica are some of the most breathtaking in the Adriatic, from the famous White Cliffs to the intriguing Salt Lake. We’ll cruise through Telašćica Bay flanked by the White Cliffs soaring 532 feet above the ocean, and meet an expert guide to learn about the formation of the Salt Lake following the last Ice Age. This fascinating lake is filled through underground cracks and limestone channels fed by the sea.

Read more: Connect With the Natural World Through These Exclusive Experiences

Telascica Croatia

Day 3: Telašćica to Mali Losinj

Waving goodbye to Telašćica, we’ll cruise to the island of Lošinj, disembarking to explore Mali Lošinj town’s harbor and historic quarter. You’ll enjoy a private, VIP tour of the Museum of Apoxyomenos, home to the perfectly preserved 2000-year-old bronze statue. The statue of Apoxyomenos, an ancient Greek athlete, was found in the sea near the island in 1999, and today has become a symbol of the island’s cultural heritage. Get to know the story of the statue, and take your time admiring this treasure and other fascinating artifacts in the museum, without the crowds.

You may also like to visit other renowned sites such as the Church of St. Martin, the oldest church on the island, and the Lošinj Aromatic Garden, where you can learn about the island’s healing herbs. Known as the Island of Vitality, Lošinj is known for its beautiful landscapes, crystal waters, over 2,600 hours of sunshine annually, and lush Mediterranean vegetation, with over 1,200 aromatic and healing herbs.

Read more: After Hours: Travel Like a VIP With These Exclusive Experiences

Mali Losinj Croatia

Day 4: Mali Losinj to Zadar

Today we head to Zadar, a vibrant city on the Dalmatian Coast, with a history dating back 3,000 years. You’ll dive into this ancient history with a Local Expert, visiting the remains of the 1st century Roman Forum, the largest on the eastern side of the Adriatic. You’ll also visit the 9th-century St. Donatus Basilica, a pre-Romanesque famed for its excellent acoustics, and stroll through the 16th-century Venetian city walls.

If you’re into contemporary attractions, be sure to visit the symphony of the Sea Organ. This architectural sound art object plays music when the sea waves interact with tubes located beneath large marble steps. You can also witness the Greeting to the Sun, a 72-foot diameter circle set into the pavement filled with 300 multilayered glass plates that collect the sun’s energy during the day and produce a stunning light show after sunset. Both of these installations were designed by local architect Nikola Bašić and have become iconic symbols of the city. Alfred Hitchcock famously said that Zadar had the most beautiful sunset in the world, so you don’t want to miss this. 

Read more: Travel Concierge Sharon, on the experience that awaits when you visit Croatia

Zadar Croatia

Day 5: Zadar to Skradin to Šibenik

After a leisurely morning, we’ll visit the acclaimed Bibich Winery in Skradin for a delicious tapas lunch paired with the finest Croatian wines. The Bibich vineyards are over 500 years old and are run by a family of vintners who have worked on this land for generations.

We’ll then sail on to the spectacular Krka National Park where you’ll marvel at the enchanting waterfalls. Walk along the shaded paths as the cascades flow all around you. Formed from the Krka and Čikola Rivers, the cascades flow over a series of terraces and travertine steps, ending in the mighty Skradinski Buk waterfall, plunging 148 feet. Despite the power of the waterfall, the pool below remains serene, and you can swim right up to the base of the falls.

Krka National Park Croatia

Next up, we’ll visit the historic city of Šibenik, one of the oldest native Croatian towns. We’ll take a walking tour with a Local Expert, visiting remarkable sites such as the UNESCO-listed Cathedral of St. James. Built over a period of more than 100 years in the 15th and 16th centuries, the cathedral is a testament to Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles. Šibenik is also known for its four fortresses, each with its unique history, architecture, and panoramic views of the city and sea. As a city built on and with stone, the Old Town is another delight. Wander down the narrow, stone streets, alleyways, and archways and admire the beautiful stone houses.

Read more: How your travels with Luxury Gold help conserve nature for future generations

Hvar Croatia

Day 6: Šibenik to Hvar

Today we sail to the gorgeous island of Hvar. Known as the “sunniest spot in Europe”, Hvar receives more than 2,700 hours of sunshine a year, and it’s an essential stop on Europe’s most glamorous cruise. From sprawling lavender fields, vineyards and olive trees, to sandy beaches, secluded coves, and historic towns, there are endless treasures to explore in Hvar.

Hvar Croatia 

Check out the 17th-century Hvar Theater, one of the oldest surviving theaters in Europe. Wander around St. Stephen’s Square, the largest piazza in Dalmatia. You can also visit the impressive Spanjola Fortress, which offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding islands. The UNESCO-listed town of Stari Grad, on the northern side, is one of the oldest towns in Europe.

With its reputation for summer luxury and vibrant bars and nightlife, Hvar also attracts an endless stream of celebrities. Prince Harry, Beyoncé and Jay-Z, Tom Cruise, Steven Spielberg, Sean Connery and many more have all graced the glitzy shores of Hvar. 

Read more: Secret islands and snowy retreats: 5 hotspots loved by the British Royal family

Hvar Croatia

Day 7: Hvar to Bol to Split

This morning we’ll cruise to Zlatni Rat, also known as the Golden Horn. It’s one of the most famous beaches in Dalmatia and for good reason. This breathtaking beach has a unique horn-like shape that changes depending on the wind and tide. Snap some gorgeous photos of the turquoise water against the white sand and lush greenery. Then it’s back on deck to relax as we cruise back to Split. Here we disembark for our final three days exploring the wonders of Dubrovnik. 

Read more: Six of the world’s most beautiful walled cities and towns

Bol Croatia

You can set sail on Europe’s most glamorous cruise on our Croatia & the Dalmatian Coast luxury tour. The cruise is just one week of this 2-week journey. You’ll experience other on-land highlights across Zagreb, Pula, Istria, Opatija and the Plitvice Lakes. Discover more through our luxury Croatia tours.

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