BACK TO
Get Inspired
Jewish Heritage Tour
JEWISH HERITAGE TOUR OF CROATIA AND BOSNIA & HERCEGOVINA
Traveling to three countries of the Balkan Region — Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro — introduces you to the area’s tumultuous history and impressive culture, together with an important role the Jewish community played in some of the main centers of the Balkans. Enjoy the centuries’ old synagogues in Zagreb, Split, Dubrovnik, and Sarajevo, while learning of the prominent roles held by the Jewish people throughout our history.
Meet the members of existing communities and learn of their current activities and everyday life. In between, enjoy spectacular nature, UNESCO-listed sites, and ultimate relaxation at some of the finest establishments of Southeastern Europe.
PROGRAM IN BRIEF
Highlights
Jewish Zagreb
Diocletian’s Palace in Split
Jewish community in Split
Dubrovnik Old Town
Synagogue in Dubrovnik
Historic Mostar
Jewish Sarajevo
Included Basics
Private transfers throughout
Entrance tickets to all attractions
English-speaking chauffeurs
Expert English-speaking local guides
Jewish heritage guides where possible
Tastings and meals per itinerary
24/7 phone support
Budget
The suggested itinerary starts at 4.400 Euro per person.
The final price of this custom tour depends on the number of guests, travel dates, final route and preferred level of comfort.
Contact us for custom itineraries or fill out our Trip Request form.
DOWNLOAD BROCHURE
Explore the Jewish heritage of Dubrovnik, Split, Sarajevo, and Zagreb, while enjoying stunning landscapes, enthralling history, and diverse culture.
Mirogoj Cemetery
Plitvice Lakes National Park
Synagogue of Split
Diocletian's Palace, Split
Jewish Cemetery, Split
Old Town, Split
Synagogue of Dubrovnik
City Walls, Dubrovnik
Mostar Bridge
Sarajevo's Historical Center
This hotel selection contributes a new dimension to your cultural journey in the region. From sophisticated Esplanade, built in the early 20th century, to Palace Judita, displaying centuries across its facades, and luxurious Villa Dubrovnik, former Yugoslav army generals’ residence. Enjoy their stories narrated through splendid interiors and deluxe ambiance.
Hotel Esplanade 5*, Zagreb
Housed in an elegant and distinguished building, built originally in 1925 and designed to accommodate passengers from the Orient Express, the Hotel Esplanade is known for its impeccable service, high-quality restaurant offer, and luxurious accommodation. Esplanade is one of the finest hotels in the region and has received numerous awards for consistent quality.
Hotel Judita Palace 4*, Split
Judita Palace Hotel is a place for lovers of culture: the facades of this extensive four-story building display the fundamental historical and cultural periods of medieval and modern Split. But Judita is not only a building, it is a boutique hotel of the finest service and most welcoming staff. It’s unbeatable, central location on Split’s main square makes it ideal for exploring Split’s historic quarters!
Hotel Villa Dubrovnik 5*, Dubrovnik
Hotel Villa Dubrovnik is one of Croatia’s most exclusive and most awarded boutique hotels. Prominently positioned on the cliffs by Dubrovnik’s favorite St. Jacob’s beach, Villa Dubrovnik is minutes away from the beauty of the Old Town and a few steps from everything that Dubrovnik offers to its guests. Villa Dubrovnik provides exceptional service as it embodies contemporary luxury and refined elegance.
Hotel President 4*, Sarajevo
Hotel President Sarajevo, opened in 2015, is situated only 100 meters from the Latin bridge, 150 m from Baščaršija street and 200 meters from Sebilj Fountain. Hotel President Sarajevo boasts a terrace and views of the city and Miljatska river. Guests can enjoy a drink at the lobby bar and each air-conditioned room has a flat-screen TV, a mini bar and a safe.
Jewish culture is deeply embedded in the history of Croatia, and many come to explore and learn more about the Jewish heritage. The proposed itinerary provides an overview of the culture but your journey can be tailored to include Jewish heritage only, or combined with any other sites you wish to see while in Croatia and the neighboring region.
Day 1
Arrival to Zagreb
Private transfer from Zagreb Airport to one of the Croatia’s most iconic hotels located in the very heart of Zagreb, Hotel Esplanade is perfectly located for exploring the treasures of this truly central European city! From its historic Upper Town to the bustling main square of Ban Jelačić and trams on Ilica street, rest assured Zagreb will enchant you.
Day 2
Jewish heritage tour of Zagreb
Your guide will meet you at your hotel for a walking tour of Zagreb. Explore the Jewish sites and the site of a synagogue destroyed in 1941. Learn of the great influence Jews had on the modern-day Croatia, but also on the tragic destiny of many in the WWII. After your walking tour, enjoy the afternoon at leisure.
Day 3
Magic of Plitvice Lakes National Park
Continue your journey south but first stop by one of Europe’s most stunning natural wonders. Plitvice Lakes leave no one indifferent; the mesmerizing beauty of 16 turquoise lakes combined with hundreds of waterfalls is a unique natural spectacle. Reach the largest city in Dalmatia, Split, in the afternoon hours.
Day 4
Jewish community of Split
The morning is reserved for enjoying a very special walking tour of Split. Visit all the important sights of the Diocletian’s Palace, but also learn about the abundant Jewish heritage of Split. Meet members of the local Jewish community and visit the ancient Jewish cemetery on Marjan Hill. After your tour, enjoy a relaxed afternoon exploring Split.
Day 5
Salona & Trogir
Learn more on the history of the region by visiting two important historic sites just a short drive away from Split. Salona, the capital of the historical Roman province of Dalmatia and another UNESCO-listed jewel, the town of Trogir makes a great day trip for history and culture lovers! Enjoy the afternoon at leisure.
Day 6
Dubrovnik Old Town
Morning departure south, to the timeless Dubrovnik. After checking in to your hotel, your guide will meet you for an afternoon Jewish tour of Dubrovnik and a visit to the second oldest Synagogue in Europe still operating. Your guide, a member of Jewish community, will give you a great insight into classic and modern-day life in Dubrovnik.
Day 7
Montenegro
This special journey continues by visiting the beautiful Boka Bay and the historical church of Our Lady of the Rocks built on an artificial island made up of rocks thrown to the site by sailors! The stunning UNESCO gem of Kotor is a place of very special beauty. Return to Dubrovnik late in the afternoon.
Day 8
Silk making presentation
Dubrovnik area still preserves many treasures. It is all about passionate and very special individuals dedicated to holding onto the traditions of the past. One of such traditions is an ancient tradition of silk making which, combined with the beauty of Konavle region, makes for a very special experience. Enjoy your last evening in Dubrovnik at leisure.
Day 9
Mostar
It is time to head inland to the mystical hillside of Hercegovina and the endless mountains of Bosnia. But your first stop is in the very special town of Mostar, the town known for its UNESCO-listed Old Bridge, a masterpiece of classic Turkish architecture connecting the Catholic and the Muslim part of the town. Arrival to Sarajevo is planned in late afternoon.
Day 10
Jewish History of Sarajevo
Sarajevo is a unique place in Europe. Often called the Jerusalem of Europe, it is a meeting place of Orthodox and Catholic Christianity, Islam and Judaism for many centuries now. The walking tour provides insight into many cultural and historical aspects of this beautiful city, but also the most recent war and post-war period.
Day 11
Departure day
Your chauffeur will meet you at your hotel in time for airport procedures for your flight out of Sarajevo International Airport. Doviđenja, until we see each other again!
SOUNDS INTERESTING?
This program gives a great insight into the Jewish heritage of the Balkans; learn more about the Jewish history and culture of the region through the lenses of existing communities and their members’ compelling stories.
Contact us
BEFORE YOU GO
Itinerary Creation
The Balkans are a true treasure chest of Jewish heritage, from cultural sites to small communities with fascinating history. Jewish heritage of Croatia dates as far back as the ancient times. The traces of Jewish culture remain in numerous regions in the northern part of the country as well as along the Dalmatian coast. This itinerary contains highlights of Jewish settlement in Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, but it will all depend on your personal preferences how much you will see.
When to Travel
This itinerary is available year-round. The program contains a mix of Jewish cultural and historical sites with some of the Balkans’ highlight locations. To fully enjoy in the natural wonders of Croatia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina featured in this itinerary, consider visiting during the warmer months, or from March through October. Make sure to contact us ahead of time so that we can book and organize everything according to your own interests and pace.
Payments
50% deposit payment is due upon booking of this program. After we have received the payment, you will be sent an official confirmation to your mail. Balance payment is due one month prior to arrival. We accept wire transfer and major credit cards through our secure payment gateway (Visa, Amex, Mastercard). In case of significant changes after finalizing the trip, there will be a 250€ surcharge. For more information on Payments, visit our Terms and Conditions page.
Travel Agents
Secret Dalmatia’s team of travel designers is dedicated to creating custom-made itineraries that perfectly suit your clients’ interests. Providing exclusive experiences with our close-knit network of fascinating locals, experienced chauffeurs, and skippers, we aspire to provide unforgettable journeys in Croatia, and beyond. We remain at your clients’ disposal 24/7 over phone as your company representative, securing your relationship with your clients and making sure they are taken care of at all times.