Hotels in Brac Island

If you’re seeking a picture-perfect island break, look no further than Hvar. Hvar holidays offer everything you could possibly want from an Adriatic island getaway - and then some. Besides unspoiled nature and historic towns, the island of Hvar has a super energetic nightlife and tons of amazing beaches to explore. From pristine shores to seafood restaurants, and ancient towns: there's something for everyone on Hvar island. 

As a hotspot for the world's rich and famous, Hvar is no stranger to tourists - and VIP ones at that. Popstars, princes and celebs flock to Hvar for its luxury resorts, stunning beaches and world-famous party scene. But holidays to Hvar are anything but exclusive, and the island offers plenty of magic beyond the buzz of the yacht-lined Hvar Town and Stari Grad. 

Hvar's natural beauty, which it offers in spades, is what attracts families, couples, and adrenaline junkies alike. The interior of the island is covered with sprawling vineyards and lavender fields, while the coast around Hvar is made up of pine-forested bays and secluded coves - so you can enjoy the Adriatic all to yourself. 

Explore the historic heart of Hvar

At the heart of Hvar Town lies St. Stephen's Square, a long and gleaming plaza that boasts a Gothic cathedral, flanked by winding, cafe-lined streets. In this bustling port town, you'll find ancient walls, a fortress perched on a hilltop, and the Renaissance-era Franciscan monastery - set amid alleyways peppered with traditional bars and seafood restaurants. 

Travel back in time

One of the oldest towns in Europe, the port of Stari Grad was first settled by the Ancient Greeks and later coveted by the Ottomans. It was here that 16th-century poet Petar Hektorović created a summer retreat, the Tvrdalj. His arcade-flanked seawater fishpool, walled herb garden and dovecote tower can be strolled around today, after being repaired and rebuilt through the 1900s.

Party like royalty

When the sun goes down, pay a visit to one of the sea-facing clubs that keep the party going all day and night long. Hula Hula is a great place for daytime partying and after-beach indulgence: close to the Hotel Amfora on a rocky outcrop of land called Majerovica, it’s accessible by foot - or by boat. Plenty of celebs have partied here, including Prince Harry. Take advantage of one of the few places in town where you can watch the sunset sink into the water, enjoying a cocktail and a soundtrack of ambient house music.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Brac Island | Dalmatian Coast | Dubrovnik | Korcula | Makarska | Rovinj | Split | Zadar | Zagreb

The island of Korcula is the perfect place to soak up everything the Mediterranean has to offer. Korcula holidays are all yours, whether you want a romantic getaway for two or a snorkelling adventure with the whole family. Known for its pristine beaches, lush forests, and centuries of history, this tiny island boasts 20 miles of spellbinding coastline. 

In Korcula’s Old Town, medieval walls stand proudly while folk music echoes through the streets. The ancient town is home to luxury hotels, fine dining and some of the island’s most impressive landmarks, including the imposing St Mark's Cathedral. On the western tip of the island, Vela Luka is a bigger, less happening settlement - head for the Cultural Centre, which houses two Henry Moore sculptures.

Much of the rest of Korčula is given over to agriculture, the signature product being the local dry white wine, Grk. Like the name of Korčula itself, originating from ‘Korkyra Melaina’ (‘Black Corfu’), Grk links back to the time of Ancient Greek settlers here. Korcula is a dazzling Croatian island that has it all: sun, sea, and culture in spades.

Island-hop to Korcula

Before we get to the good stuff, let's figure out how you're going to get there. Ferries calling at Split, Hvar and Lastovo dock at Vela Luka. The bus-and-boat service from Dubrovnik hops across from Orebić on Pelješac to Korčula town. The trip takes about three and a half hours. Take advantage of the fresh air while you try to spot dolphins and make the most of your time at sea. Don't have the time? If you want to shorten your trip, you can take the catamaran from Split via Hvar, which only takes an hour and 45 minutes.

Explore an ancient Roman island

If you're a culture vulture, you'll feel the pull of Old Town from the very first moment you step on the island. The ancient, walled town of Korcula regularly invites comparisons with Dubrovnik and will quickly sweep you up in its historical magic. The Land Gate entrance is your gateway to the 13th century Old Town. It will be easy to tell you’re in the right direction when you come to a small peninsula dotted with whitewashed houses with fiery-red clay rooftops.

There's still an ancient fort on Korcula, surrounded by an imposing stone wall. The walls were built to keep pirates at bay. The island's most important landmark is St Mark's Cathedral, built in the 15th century. Visit the bell tower for spectacular views across the bay. Korcula Town Museum, across the street, offers a fascinating look at the island's history. There are four levels to explore, which make it a great place to learn about the ancient culture of the island. 

Feast on Dalmatian food and wine

A rich wine-growing island, Korcula’s vineyards are not to be missed. A delicate white wine is made from grapes from the vineyards near Smokvica and Cara. With a classic wine tasting experience, you can sample it along with a variety of others. If you're a foodie, you'll find a delicious haven of tastes and alluring smells throughout the village. Whether you enjoy a beach picnic or a classy seafood dinner, Korcula cuisine offers something for everyone.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Brac Island | Croatia | Dalmatian Coast | Dubrovnik | Hvar | Makarska | Rovinj | Split | Zadar | Zagreb

Rovinj holidays are postcard-perfect. A cluster of pastel-coloured townhouses adorns the peninsula, framed by the brilliant-blue Adriatic Sea. In the morning, St Euphemera, a Baroque church rising above the hilltops, rings its bells to awaken the city. And if you’re staying near the port, you’ll probably hear the sound of the morning catch being hauled in.

Holidays to Rovinj feature beaches with a faraway feel, stunning Italianate architecture and a foodie scene that punches well above its weight for a town of this size. This is one of Croatia’s Michelin-starred destinations, but you’ll also find affordable, family-run restaurants with sea views, where you can tuck into some of that freshly-caught seafood, washed down with local Istrian wine.

Take a wander up the cobbled streets of Rovinj’s old town to browse the local arts and crafts. One of the most popular spots is Grisia street, which is home to several quirky galleries and cute cafes. To get a real feel for the city, explore its fishing traditions with a visit to the Batana House Boat museum, then stroll along the pine-fringed coastal path until you find a wild cove where you can lay down your towel and dive into the Adriatic.

Find your private paradise

The coastline looping around Rovinj is wild and rocky, and there are plenty of secluded bays and coves where you can enjoy peace and quiet. With fine shingle and easy access, the city beach is ideal for families looking to cool off. Or you could hike to the Golden Cape, a forested peninsula where you’ll find the bulk of the hotel resorts, hidden amongst the pines. With private beaches and elevated bars, you can enjoy the sunset as the sky turns brazen shades of orange at sunset – sit back with a cocktail and soak up the view.

Immerse yourself in ancient history

The Italian-influenced Rovinj is brimming with history and culture. This former island was once surrounded by stone walls, and you can still see some of them around the old town. Connected to the mainland in the 17th century, the town grew rapidly as people fled the plague that afflicted the neighbouring towns of Porec and Pula.

Walk up the sloping cobbled streets until you reach the hilltop and the Venetian-style church that overlooks the city. Here you’ll find the remains of Saint Euphemia, preserved in a sarcophagus dating back to the 6th century – alongside a wealth of antiquities and religious art. Wander past the crumbling walls that once guarded this church, where you’ll stumble upon the occasional bar or cafe nestling among the ruins.

Dress up for dinner

Rovinj is easily one of Croatia’s most luxurious destinations. Even the nightlife here is sophisticated, with fine-dining restaurants and wine bars where you can hear the tinkling of piano keys alongside the crashing waves. Sip on a cocktail or two at a harbourside bar and enjoy the lively atmosphere while taking in the views of the stunning coastline.

The legendary Monte restaurant is an excellent choice if you’re looking to fork out for a fancy meal. Expect exquisite gourmet cuisine, and a price tag to match. On the waterfront, a cluster of family-run restaurants provides a typical Istrian welcome and simple, affordable dishes. Try the local specialities like Istrian black Fuži pasta, served with lashings of truffles.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations in Croatia, including Brac Island | Dalmatian Coast | Dubrovnik | Hvar | Korcula | Makarska | Porec | Split | Zadar | Zagreb

Luring you in with Blue Flag awarded beaches made for lazy sunbathing stints, ancient ruins dating back as far as the 3rd century and an electric nightlife attracting world-renowned DJs, Cyprus holidays are one-of-a-kind. And that’s just the beginning, think waterfront restaurants combining the flavours of Greece and Turkey, splash-filled waterparks perfect for families and most importantly, a sizzling summer climate. 

Things to do

Whether you’re a history buff seeking out UNESCO-listed hotspots or a hardcore reveller looking for the best cocktail venues in Ayia Napa, holidays to Cyprus are action-packed. And if you’re just wanting to lounge around on one of its 160 beaches, relaxing getaways are aplenty too.

For starters, Coral Bay oozes tranquility with a swathe of golden sand calling you to top up your tan. Meanwhile, Nissi Beach is known as the beach that never sleeps thanks to its live music and thrilling watersports. As for Lara Bay, well that’s an isolated sand spot dedicated to protecting loggerhead turtles. 

For those with kids, the Mediterranean coastline is best explored via horseback (especially at sunset). And when the ocean doesn’t cut it, WaterWorld is a must! It’s the largest themed waterpark in Cyprus, daring you to slide down its freefall kamikaze and float along its lazy river. Not to mention the splash zones for tinier tots, inflatable obstacle courses and bubbling hot tubs. 

When you want to get wet and wild among nature's finest, Adonis Baths promises cascading waterfalls. Or,  you can always check out the largest rock formation Petra tou Romiou, the birthplace of the goddess Aphrodite. Legend has it that if you swim around the rock three times, you’ll be granted eternal beauty.

No trip is complete without visiting the archaeological marvel, Tomb of the Kings. Around 100 Ptolemaic aristocrats are estimated to have been buried there, along with a substantial trove of jewels and personal effects! Trek up the Troodos Mountains and you’ll be greeted by another phenomenon, Kykkos Monastery founded in the 11th century. Here alongside timeless manuscripts and antiques lies the silver-gilded icon of the Virgin Mary. 

Places to stay

Cyprus is an island of contrast! Head to the rustic fishing village of Latchi for quaint tavernas and a relaxed welcome. Or, check out our Ayia Napa holidays if you want to party until sunrise. When it comes to sands that resemble the Caribbean, Nissi Bay holidays and Protaras are firm family favourites.

And when you want to be next door to some of the world’s most important archaeological sites, Paphos should be your go-to. There’s no shortage of luxury either thanks to the superyachts decorating the coastline of Limassol. This cosmopolitan resort has a fantastic mix of award-winning beaches, designer stores and historical relics; the ruined city Kourion, in particular, will lure you in with its cocktail of cultures. 

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including Ayia Napa | Larnarca | Limassol | Nissi Bay | Paphos | Protaras

Calabria holidays are full of rustic charm. From its dramatic cliff top villages, to its ancient olive groves and those sugar-white sands, this hidden gem is the lesser trodden toe of Italy’s boot. Full of spectacular sights, much of the region remains untouched, leaving you with vast areas of lush greenery and “the purest air in Europe”. Hike the Apennine mountain range that curves down to the tip of Sicily, explore the castles, monasteries and sleepy squares of Tropea, and taste the freshest, sweetest produce in Italy. That’s when you can tear yourself away from the quiet, paradisiacal beaches.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Amalfi | Ischia Porto | Florence | Lake Garda | Limone | Malcesine | Rome | Sant'Agnello | Sardinia | Sorrento | Venetian Riviera | Venice

The largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily will amaze you with its ancient monuments, pretty piazzas, and varied landscapes. Ideal for couples, families and adventurers alike, this picturesque region boasts some of the most spectacular sights in Europe. Explore its fascinating history on a day trip to the Valley of Temples in Agrigento, browse the stylish boutiques of Taormina, or soak up the Mediterranean sun on the sandy shores of Cefalu beach. If you’re feeling really adventurous, why not climb the slopes of a volcano? No matter what you decide to do on your holidays to Sicily, don’t leave without tasting a glass of the local vino!

Things to do

Sicily is famous for the Teatro Massimo, Italy's largest opera house. Dating back to the end of the 19th century, it was featured in the film 'The Godfather, Part Three', and is near the heart of the historic Sicilian capital, Palermo. With a capacity of nearly 1,400 and exceptional acoustics, it's a must-see if you're an opera fan. Just a few minutes away is the Museo archeologico regionale "Antonino Salinas", an archaeological museum with a fascinating collection of Phoenician and Ancient Greek artworks.
Then, take some time to explore the resort and ancient Greco-Roman theatre of Taormina on the east coast, or see the wonderful Castello di Venere fortress near Erica in the far west of the region. 

Excellent beaches

Sicily has a range of beautiful beaches, some with soft sand, others are pebblier, so you can tailor your beach day accordingly. Large larva rocks speckle the warm shallow waters of Sicily’s coast adding to the striking scenery. The costal town of Taormina is mainly known for its long stretch of sandy shores. Enjoy reclining on sun loungers under parasols, taking in the picturesque views of the turquoise coast against the golden sand. There’s plenty of opportunity for water sports where you can paraglide, hire a pedal boat or snorkel in the shallow mangroves.

History and culture

Sicily has a rich, complex history, which can be seen through its ancient ruins that have a wide range of cultural influences taken from Phoenician, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, French, German, Spanish and Italian civilisations. Visitors can see Greek temples, Roman villas, Norman cathedrals and traditional Italian architecture on the island. Sicily became a part of Italy in 1860 but only converted to an autonomous region in 1946 with help from the Italian Republic. The region has a heavy religious culture with a number of festivals celebrated throughout the year.

Nightlife

Sicily is extremely traditional so the nightlife typically follows the same pattern of being quite low key. You’ll find bars and clubs that stay open late in certain areas, but the majority of nightly entertainment is focused in the restaurants and hotels. Enjoy a delicious Italian meal with a glass of local wine at a hillside restaurant whilst the sunsets over the beautiful coastline.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Amalfi | Ischia Porto | Florence | Lake Garda | Limone | Malcesine | Rome | Sant'Agnello | Sardinia | Sorrento | Venetian Riviera | Venice