12-Day Valletta → Syracuse → Split Itinerary — Autumn 2026 - Mediterranean Sea Lanes: Malta to Croatia

12:00

Final packing and home departure prep

Confirm passport, travel documents, and any prescription medications are packed. Double-check hotel confirmations and downloaded offline maps for Malta.

📍 Las Vegas, USA (Home)

13:30

Depart for Harry Reid International Airport

Allow at least 30 minutes for the drive plus buffer for Sunday traffic. International departures require check-in at least 3 hours before a connecting or long-haul itinerary.

📍 Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), Las Vegas

14:00

Check in, bag drop, and security

Use online check-in or kiosks to save time. TSA PreCheck lanes move quickly here; head straight to the gate after clearing security.

📍 Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) — International Terminal

15:00

Pre-flight meal and airport lounge rest

Eat a proper meal now to avoid relying solely on in-flight service. If you have Priority Pass or a travel card lounge benefit, The Club at LAS is a quiet option to recharge before the long haul.

📍 Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) — Concourse D/E dining or lounge

16:20

Overnight flight departs — LAS to Valletta (MLA)

Board promptly; the flight routes east overnight toward the Mediterranean with an expected arrival in Malta at 16:00 local time on November 2nd. Set your watch to Malta time (UTC+1) and try to sleep after the first meal service to combat jet lag.

📍 Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), Departure Gate

16:00

Arrive at Malta International Airport

After a long overnight transatlantic journey, clear passport control and collect luggage — allow 30–45 minutes. Currency is the Euro; ATMs are available in the arrivals hall.

📍 Malta International Airport (MLA), Luqa, Malta

16:45

Arrival transfer to Chateau La Vallette

A pre-booked private taxi or airport transfer takes roughly 15–20 minutes to central Valletta. Confirm your transfer in advance as Valletta's city gate access is restricted to residents and taxis only.

📍 Malta International Airport to Chateau La Vallette - Grand Master's Suite, Valletta

17:15

Check in to Chateau La Vallette and freshen up

Take 45–60 minutes to settle in, shower, and change — the suite's views over the city will reward a few minutes of quiet appreciation before heading out.

📍 Chateau La Vallette - Grand Master's Suite, Valletta

18:15

Sunset stroll along the Valletta waterfront and Upper Barrakka glimpse

November sunsets fall around 17:30–17:45 local time, so the golden afterglow will still linger at 18:15 — walk south along the bastions toward the Grand Harbour for sweeping views of the Three Cities across the water. The Upper Barrakka Gardens viewpoint is free to access from the terrace level.

📍 Grand Harbour waterfront and St. Barbara Bastion area, Valletta

19:15

Aperitivo and light drinks at a harbor-view bar

Strait Street (the historic 'Gut') has been revived with atmospheric wine bars — Trabuxu Wine Bar is a local favorite for Maltese wines and nibbles with no reservation needed on a Sunday evening in November.

📍 Strait Street or Republic Street bar strip, Valletta

20:15

Dinner at a traditional Maltese restaurant on Merchant Street

Look for rabbit (fenek) stew or fresh-caught lampuki fish — both are Maltese autumn staples. Nenu the Artisan Baker on St. Dominic Street is an excellent low-key option for ftira bread and hearty local dishes; reservations recommended.

📍 Merchant Street, Valletta

21:45

Evening walk back through the illuminated old city streets

Valletta's honey-limestone buildings glow warmly under evening lighting — a short 10-minute stroll back to the hotel through the near-empty baroque streets is a perfect close to a long travel day. Rest well; a full day of sightseeing begins tomorrow.

📍 Republic Street to Chateau La Vallette, Valletta

08:00

Breakfast at Caffe Cordina

Valletta's most storied café, open since 1837. Grab a window seat or step out to the square for a Maltese ftira or pastizzi with a strong espresso — arrive early on weekdays to beat the queue.

📍 Piazza della Repubblica, Valletta

09:00

St. John's Co-Cathedral

Book timed-entry tickets online in advance — November is quieter but slots still fill. Don't miss Caravaggio's 'The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist' in the Oratory; audioguides are included with entry.

📍 St. John's Street, Valletta

10:45

Explore Republic Street and the old city grid

Stroll Valletta's spine from the cathedral toward the Palace, browsing honey-limestone façades, artisan shops, and the ornate Grandmaster's facades. The street is pedestrianized and flat — a rare pleasure in this hilly city.

📍 Republic Street, Valletta

11:30

Grand Master's Palace and State Rooms

The armoury entrance and State Rooms occasionally have separate ticketing; confirm times at the door as hours vary by season. The Knights' armoury inside is one of Europe's finest intact collections of medieval weaponry.

📍 Palace Square, Republic Street, Valletta

13:00

Lunch at Rubino

A beloved Valletta institution serving traditional Maltese cuisine — try the bragioli (beef olives) or fresh fish of the day. Reservations strongly recommended even in November; book the night before.

📍 64 Old Bakery Street, Valletta

14:15

Casa Rocca Piccola

This 16th-century palazzo is still inhabited by the Marquis de Piro and offers guided tours — an intimate glimpse into Maltese noble life rarely found in a museum. Tours run on the hour; check the current schedule at the door.

📍 74 Republic Street, Valletta

15:30

Upper Barrakka Gardens and the Saluting Battery

The noon and 4 PM cannon salutes are the main events — the 4 PM firing is ideal from this afternoon slot. The gardens also command the finest panorama of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities across the water.

📍 St. Peter and Paul Bastion, Valletta

16:15

Walk the Lower Barrakka Gardens and city walls

A quieter, less-visited counterpart to Upper Barrakka, with a small neoclassical temple and unobstructed views toward Fort Ricasoli. The fortification walk between the two gardens takes roughly 20 minutes.

📍 Lower Barrakka Gardens, southeastern Valletta

17:30

Aperitivo hour at Trabuxu Wine Bar

Strait Street — once Valletta's legendary 'Gut' sailors' quarter — is now a mellow bar lane. Trabuxu has an excellent list of Maltese Marsovin and Meridiana wines; pair with local cheeselet (ġbejniet) and olives.

📍 2 Strait Street, Valletta

19:30

Dinner at Noni

One of Valletta's top modern-Maltese tables, helmed by Chef Jonathan Brincat. The tasting menu showcases local seafood and seasonal produce — reservations essential, book at least a week ahead for weekend evenings.

📍 169 Republic Street, Valletta

21:30

Evening walk back along the Grand Harbour waterfront

The floodlit bastions and harbour lights are spectacular at night. The walk from the waterfront back up to Chateau La Vallette takes about 10 minutes through quiet baroque lanes — a perfect close to the day.

📍 Barriera Wharf and Lower Valletta waterfront

08:00

Breakfast at a Valletta café

One of Malta's oldest and most beloved cafés — order the pastizzi and a strong Maltese coffee. Arrive early to claim a table before the morning crowd.

📍 Caffe Cordina, Republic Street, Valletta

09:15

Bus to Mdina — the Silent City

The ride takes roughly 45 minutes; November crowds are light, making this the ideal month to wander Mdina's narrow lanes in near silence. Purchase an Explore Card for unlimited bus travel.

📍 City Gate Bus Terminus, Valletta (Bus X1 or 80 toward Mdina)

10:15

Explore Mdina's medieval lanes and bastions

Walk the full circuit of the bastion walls for sweeping views over the island; the Cathedral Museum on St. Paul's Square holds exceptional Dürer engravings and is often overlooked. Mdina's resident population is under 300 — keep voices low as a local courtesy.

📍 Mdina, Central Malta

11:15

St. Paul's Cathedral and Cathedral Museum, Mdina

The cathedral was rebuilt in baroque style after the 1693 earthquake; the floor is paved entirely with polychrome marble tombstones of the Knights of Malta. Allow 45 minutes for the cathedral and museum combined.

📍 St. Paul's Cathedral, St. Paul's Square, Mdina

12:15

Lunch in Mdina or Rabat

Fontanella's terrace perches directly on the bastions with panoramic views — ideal for a light lunch of Maltese soup (aljotta) and fresh bread. Book ahead or arrive right at opening to secure a bastion table.

📍 Fontanella Tea Garden, Bastion Street, Mdina (or Trattoria Tal-Familja in nearby Rabat)

13:30

Return bus to Valletta

Buses run frequently; the return journey to Valletta City Gate takes approximately 45 minutes. Use travel time to rest before the afternoon on the water.

📍 Mdina Bus Stop, Triq il-Buskett, Mdina

15:00

Three Cities harbor cruise — Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua

Traditional dgħajsa water taxis depart from the Valletta Custom House steps and weave through the creeks between all Three Cities — negotiate a private 60–90 minute circuit. This is the best vantage point for the Knights' historic fortifications and the Bighi naval hospital seen from the water.

📍 Valletta Waterfront / Barriera Wharf, Valletta

16:30

Walk the streets of Vittoriosa (Birgu) on foot

Disembark at the Vittoriosa waterfront and stroll Triq il-Mina l-Kbira to the Inquisitor's Palace — one of the only surviving Inquisitor's residences open to the public anywhere in Europe. The fort St. Angelo looming at the creek's tip is free to admire from the waterfront.

📍 Vittoriosa (Birgu), Three Cities

17:30

Return to Valletta by water taxi

The short dgħajsa crossing back to Valletta takes under 10 minutes and costs a few euros — a fitting close to an afternoon on the harbor. The late afternoon light turns the limestone facades a deep amber from the water.

📍 Vittoriosa Creek steps to Valletta Custom House

19:30

Dinner at a Valletta harbor-view restaurant

Rubino is a Valletta institution open since 1906 serving traditional Maltese dishes like braġjoli (beef olives) and fenkata — reservations are essential, especially on weekends. Ask for a table in the vaulted inner dining room for the full historic atmosphere.

📍 Rubino Restaurant, Old Bakery Street, Valletta (or Noni on Republic Street)

07:30

Final morning breakfast at Chateau La Vallette

Enjoy a relaxed last breakfast in Valletta before checkout. Settle your bill and have luggage ready by the lobby — checkout must be completed before your airport transfer.

📍 Chateau La Vallette - Grand Master's Suite, Valletta

08:30

Checkout and last look at the Valletta ramparts

Take a brief five-minute stroll to the nearest bastion for a parting view of the Grand Harbour; you won't need to detour and it keeps the morning unhurried.

📍 Chateau La Vallette, Valletta

09:00

Leisure time in Valletta's Republic Street

Browse a bookshop or pick up last-minute Maltese lace or sea-salt gifts along the main pedestrian spine — shops open by 09:00 and the street is quiet this early.

📍 Republic Street, Valletta

10:30

Airport transfer to Malta International Airport

Allow 30–40 minutes by taxi or pre-booked transfer; the airport is roughly 8 km south of Valletta. Aim to arrive by 12:30 for a 14:50 departure.

📍 Valletta city center to Malta International Airport (MLA)

12:30

Check in and clear security at Malta International Airport

November crowds are light but security can take 20–30 minutes; have your passport and booking confirmation ready on your phone. Grab a coffee airside once through.

📍 Malta International Airport (MLA), Luqa

14:50

Depart Malta — Flight MLA to CTA

Short 50-minute hop to Catania; the left-hand window seats offer a striking view of the Sicilian coastline and Mount Etna on approach.

📍 Malta International Airport (MLA)

15:40

Arrive Catania Fontanarossa Airport and collect luggage

Baggage reclaim is quick at this small airport; proceed directly to the taxi rank or your pre-booked transfer — no need to rent a car as Ortigia is pedestrian-friendly.

📍 Catania Fontanarossa Airport (CTA), Catania

16:00

Transfer from Catania Airport to Syracuse (Ortigia)

The drive to Syracuse is approximately 60 km south along the A18 autostrada, typically 50–60 minutes by private transfer or taxi; a pre-booked driver is strongly recommended as the drop-off point on Ortigia island requires local knowledge of the limited-access zones.

📍 Catania Airport to Oikos Arethusa, Syracuse

17:15

Check in at Oikos Arethusa and freshen up

The hotel sits right on Ortigia island — drop your bags, change into comfortable walking shoes, and step out quickly to catch the last of the golden late-afternoon light before dusk falls around 17:45 in early November.

📍 Oikos Arethusa, Syracuse (Ortigia)

18:00

Evening passeggiata on Ortigia and Fonte Aretusa

Join the local evening stroll south along the Lungomare Alfeo to the Fonte Aretusa — a mythological freshwater spring where papyrus still grows beside the sea. Linger at the low wall to watch the ducks and the darkening harbor; this is the living heart of Syracusan daily life and best experienced at an unhurried pace.

📍 Ortigia waterfront and Fonte Aretusa, Syracuse

08:00

Breakfast at a local Ortigia café

Order a granita con brioche — the classic Sicilian morning ritual. Arrive early as good tables fill quickly with locals on their way to work.

📍 Bar San Rocco or similar bar near Piazza Archimede, Ortigia, Syracuse

09:00

Depart for Neapolis Archaeological Park

The park opens at 09:00; arriving right at opening beats tour groups by a full hour and the November light is ideal for photography.

📍 Via Paradiso, 14, Syracuse — roughly 15 minutes on foot or a short taxi from Ortigia

09:15

Neapolis Archaeological Park — Greek Theatre

The 5th-century BC theatre is one of the largest and best-preserved in the ancient world; walking the cavea tiers takes about 45 minutes. Book tickets online in advance to skip the queue (combined ticket covers the full park).

📍 Parco Archeologico della Neapolis, Syracuse

10:15

Ear of Dionysius and the Latomie quarries

This massive limestone cave — 23 metres high with extraordinary acoustics — was allegedly used as a prison by the tyrant Dionysius. Speak softly inside to experience the echo effect; the cave can be cold so bring a light layer.

📍 Neapolis Archaeological Park, adjacent to the theatre

11:00

Roman Amphitheatre and altar of Hieron II

These two sites sit within a short walk inside the park and round out the archaeological narrative from Greek to Roman eras. Allow 30–40 minutes to absorb both without rushing.

📍 Neapolis Archaeological Park, Syracuse

12:00

Lunch near the park — Sicilian trattoria

Order pasta alla Norma (eggplant, tomato, and ricotta salata) — the quintessential Syracuse lunch. Restaurants here cater to post-park visitors and open at noon.

📍 Trattoria Archimede or La Foglia, Via Cavour area, Syracuse

13:30

Transfer back to Ortigia and afternoon rest

A short taxi or 20-minute walk across the Ponte Nuovo returns you to the island. A brief mid-afternoon rest at the hotel suits the November pace well before the baroque walk.

📍 Ortigia island, Syracuse

15:00

Piazza del Duomo and baroque Ortigia lanes

The Cathedral itself is built directly into the cella of a 5th-century BC Temple of Athena — Doric columns are visible inside the nave walls. Entry to the cathedral is free; the piazza is arguably most atmospheric in the soft late-afternoon light.

📍 Piazza del Duomo, Ortigia, Syracuse

16:00

Stroll the baroque lanes of Ortigia

These narrow honey-limestone streets reveal ornate balconies, hidden courtyards, and small artisan workshops — follow any alley heading west from the Duomo for the best discoveries. No map needed; the island is small and impossible to get truly lost.

📍 Via della Maestranza, Via Capodieci, and surrounding streets, Ortigia

17:30

Aperitivo at a waterfront bar overlooking Porto Grande

Order a Campari spritz or local Nero d'Avola wine alongside olives and arancini. The western-facing waterfront catches the last of the November sunset light around 17:00–17:15.

📍 Lungomare Alfeo or Bar Nettuno, Ortigia seafront, Syracuse

19:30

Dinner — fresh seafood in Ortigia

Syracuse sits at the confluence of the Ionian and Mediterranean — order swordfish, sea urchin pasta, or fresh grilled dentice. Reserve a table by phone or email that morning as Don Camillo fills quickly even in November.

📍 Ristorante Don Camillo, Via Maestranza 96, Ortigia, or Porta Marina nearby

08:00

Breakfast at the hotel

Start with a light Sicilian breakfast of granita and brioche before the drive to Noto. November mornings are mild — a light layer is useful.

📍 Oikos Arethusa, Syracuse

09:00

Drive from Syracuse to Noto

The drive is roughly 35 km and takes about 40 minutes. Street parking is easy in November; aim for the lots near Porta Reale.

📍 SS287 / SP63, departure from Syracuse

09:45

Arrive in Noto and walk the Via Corrado Nicolaci

This pedestrian street is the heart of Noto's baroque showpiece — ornate palazzo balconies carved with lions and cherubs. Morning light from the east is ideal for photos.

📍 Via Corrado Nicolaci, Noto

10:15

Visit the Cathedral of Noto (Cattedrale di San Nicolò)

Entry is free; the interior was painstakingly rebuilt after the 1996 dome collapse and finished in 2007. Dress modestly — shoulders and knees covered.

📍 Piazza Municipio, Noto

11:00

Stroll Corso Vittorio Emanuele and Palazzo Ducezio

The pedestrian Corso links Noto's three grand piazzas in a single elegant sweep — about 10 minutes end to end at a relaxed pace.

📍 Corso Vittorio Emanuele III, Noto

11:30

Gelato break at Caffè Sicilia

One of Sicily's most celebrated pastry shops; the jasmine granita and almond gelato are local legends. Arrive before noon to avoid any queue.

📍 Corso Vittorio Emanuele 125, Noto

12:15

Drive back to Syracuse — Ortigia

Allow 45 minutes for the return. Drop luggage or freshen up at the hotel before heading straight to the seafood market.

📍 Return via SS287, arriving Ortigia

13:15

Ortigia seafood market lunch

The market stalls wind down by 13:30, so browse quickly and then settle at one of the adjacent tavernas — Trattoria La Foglia or similar — to order the morning's catch grilled or al cartoccio. This is the anchor meal of the day.

📍 Mercato di Ortigia, Via Trento / Via della Maestranza, Syracuse

15:30

Afternoon passeggiata and espresso on Piazza del Duomo

The baroque square quiets considerably after the lunch rush — ideal for a relaxed espresso at an outdoor table and a second look at the cathedral façade without crowds.

📍 Piazza del Duomo, Ortigia, Syracuse

17:00

Sunset aperitivo at Fonte Aretusa waterfront

Order a Sicilian Aperol spritz or local Nero d'Avola and watch the light turn the limestone gold — a fitting close to the day. Many bars here do small free stuzzichini with drinks.

📍 Largo Aretusa, Ortigia, Syracuse

19:30

Dinner at a local osteria in Ortigia

Book ahead at Osteria da Mariano or Don Camillo for a quieter table; November is shoulder season so same-day reservations are usually possible, but calling ahead is wise.

📍 Ortigia neighborhood, Syracuse

08:00

Leisurely breakfast at Oikos Arethusa hotel or a nearby Ortigia café

Enjoy a slow Sicilian breakfast of granita, brioche, and espresso — a fitting farewell to Sicily. Keep it unhurried; you have a comfortable morning before the airport run.

📍 Ortigia island, Syracuse

09:30

Final Ortigia stroll and last-minute souvenir shopping

The baroque side streets around Via della Maestranza have small shops selling Sicilian ceramics, sea-salt, and almond paste confections — ideal lightweight souvenirs. Shops open by 09:30 on weekdays.

📍 Via della Maestranza and surrounding lanes, Ortigia

11:00

Check out of Oikos Arethusa and load luggage for airport transfer

Confirm your taxi or transfer to Catania Fontanarossa Airport in advance; the drive is roughly 60–70 minutes, longer if traffic is heavy on the SS114 coastal road.

📍 Oikos Arethusa, Syracuse

11:15

Transfer by taxi or pre-booked car from Syracuse to Catania Fontanarossa Airport

Aim to arrive at CTA no later than 13:25 for your 15:25 departure, giving a full two hours for check-in, security, and passport control. Pre-book a licensed taxi from your hotel the night before.

📍 Syracuse to Catania Fontanarossa Airport (CTA)

13:25

Arrive at Catania Fontanarossa Airport — check in and clear security

CTA is a busy regional hub; allow extra time at security, especially in the main departures hall. Grab a quick lunch from the airside cafés after clearing security.

📍 Catania Fontanarossa Airport (CTA), Catania, Sicily

15:25

Depart Catania (CTA) on flight to Split (SPU)

The flight is roughly 1 hour 40 minutes. Sit on the left side of the aircraft on approach to Split for a stunning view of the Dalmatian coastline and offshore islands.

📍 Catania Fontanarossa Airport (CTA)

19:05

Arrive at Split Airport (SPU) and clear passport control

EU-to-Schengen arrival; passport control is typically fast. The airport is approximately 25 minutes by car or 40 minutes by the regular airport shuttle bus to Split's main bus terminal.

📍 Split Airport (SPU), Kaštela, Croatia

19:45

Transfer from Split Airport to Golden View 7 hotel in Split old town

The airport shuttle drops near the Riva waterfront; from there it's a short walk or a 5-minute taxi ride to most old-town accommodations. Confirm your hotel's exact entrance alley in advance — old-town Split has many narrow pedestrian lanes.

📍 Split Airport to Golden View 7, Split

20:15

Check in at Golden View 7 and freshen up

Drop luggage, orient yourself with a hotel map of the old-town alleys, and get a quick dinner recommendation from the front desk before heading out.

📍 Golden View 7, Split

21:00

Evening walk along the Riva promenade and dinner at a waterfront konoba

The Riva is Split's living room — a broad palm-lined seafront buzzing even on November evenings. Choose a konoba (traditional Croatian tavern) just off the Riva for grilled fresh fish, peka lamb, and a glass of local Pošip white wine; restaurants are less crowded in November and reservations are usually unnecessary.

📍 Riva Promenade, Split Old Town

22:30

Nightcap and first glimpse of Diocletian's Palace walls by night

A short walk from the Riva leads you through the Golden Gate or Bronze Gate directly into the Roman palace complex. The Peristyle square and cathedral bell tower are dramatically lit after dark — a perfect, effortless first taste of Split's ancient heart.

📍 Peristyle Square, Diocletian's Palace, Split Old Town

08:00

Breakfast at Fife Restaurant near the Riva

A beloved local institution just west of the palace; arrive early as it fills quickly. Order the Dalmatian scrambled eggs with prosciutto and olive oil for an authentic start.

📍 Trumbićeva obala 11, Split

09:00

Enter Diocletian's Palace through the Golden Gate and explore the living ruins

Start at the north Golden Gate for the best dramatic first impression; the palace is a living neighborhood with residents, shops, and cafés inside its ancient walls. November crowds are thin — you'll have the peristyle nearly to yourself in the morning.

📍 Golden Gate (Porta Aurea), north entrance, Split

09:45

Descend into the Palace Cellars (Vestibule and Underground Halls)

The subterranean halls mirror the floor plan of the imperial apartments above and are one of the best-preserved Roman basements in the world; entry fee is modest (~50 HRK). Allow 30–40 minutes to explore fully.

📍 Diocletian's Palace Cellars, Peristyle entrance, Split

10:30

Climb the Cathedral of Saint Domnius bell tower

The cathedral itself is built inside Diocletian's mausoleum — one of history's great ironies. Buy a combined ticket for the cathedral and bell tower; the narrow spiral staircase rewards you with panoramic views over the palace roofscape and harbor.

📍 Peristyle Square, Diocletian's Palace, Split

11:30

Wander the medieval lanes of the palace interior — Zlatna Vrata to Srebrna Vrata

Stroll from the Golden Gate south to the Silver Gate through the tangled medieval quarter; peek into hidden courtyards and baroque churches layered over Roman foundations. No ticket needed — just wander freely.

📍 Within Diocletian's Palace walls, Split old town

12:30

Lunch at Konoba Fetivi in the old town

A warmly lit Dalmatian konoba a short walk west of the palace; order the peka (slow-baked lamb or octopus under the bell) if available, or the fresh grilled fish of the day. Reservations recommended even in November.

📍 Ul. Sperun 1, Split

14:00

Walk the Riva promenade westward toward Marjan Hill

The 15-minute waterfront walk to the base of Marjan Hill is a pleasant digestive stroll with views of the islands of Brač and Šolta across the Adriatic. November light on the water is particularly golden in the afternoon.

📍 Obala Hrvatskog narodnog preporoda (the Riva), Split

14:30

Hike Marjan Hill to the main viewpoint at Telegrin peak

The forested peninsula rises to 178 m and takes about 30–40 minutes of easy uphill walking to the summit; the panorama sweeps across Split's red rooftops, the Adriatic islands, and Diocletian's Palace below. Wear comfortable shoes — stone paths can be slippery after autumn rain.

📍 Marjan Hill Park, Split (enter via Šetalište Ivana Meštrovića)

16:00

Visit the Meštrović Gallery on the descent from Marjan

Croatia's greatest sculptor built this villa-gallery himself; it closes at 18:00 in winter and is often uncrowded. The terrace affords one last elevated sea view before heading back to town.

📍 Šetalište Ivana Meštrovića 46, Split

17:30

Aperitivo hour at a wine bar in the Varoš quarter

The old fishermen's quarter just west of the palace has low-key wine bars pouring local Plavac Mali reds from the Dalmatian coast; Bokeria Kitchen & Wine Bar on Domaldova is a reliable pick. A perfect spot to rest legs before dinner.

📍 Varoš neighborhood, below Marjan Hill, Split

19:30

Dinner at Restaurant Dvor on the Bačvice bay waterfront

A 10-minute taxi or 20-minute walk east of the palace, Dvor sits on a terrace above the Adriatic and serves outstanding Dalmatian seafood — the black risotto with cuttlefish ink is exceptional. Book ahead, especially for a window table.

📍 Put Firula 14, Split (Bačvice seafront)

08:00

Breakfast at a café near Diocletian's Palace

November mornings are cool and quiet — ideal for a peaceful coffee and pastry before the day trip. Most café terraces are open; grab a window seat inside if the chill is sharp.

📍 Vestibul or Meštrović Square area, Split old town

09:00

Depart Split for Trogir by road

Local bus #37 from Autobusni Kolodvor (Split Bus Terminal) runs frequently and takes about 40 minutes, or a taxi/rideshare takes roughly 25 minutes. No car rental required.

📍 Depart from Split city center toward Trogir (approx. 27 km northwest)

09:45

Arrive in Trogir and enter the UNESCO old island-town

Cross the small bridge from the mainland onto the island — the entire medieval core is compact and walkable. November crowds are minimal, so you can roam the marble lanes freely.

📍 Trogir Island, Trogir, Croatia

10:00

Explore Cathedral of St. Lawrence (Katedrala sv. Lovre)

The Romanesque-Gothic portal by Master Radovan (1240) is considered the finest Romanesque sculpture in Croatia — take your time with its carved figures. Entrance fee is modest; the bell tower climb rewards with sweeping Adriatic views.

📍 Trg Ivana Pavla II (John Paul II Square), Trogir

11:00

Wander Trogir's medieval lanes and Loggia

The 15th-century Loggia and Clock Tower at the main square are the social heart of the town. Duck into the side streets — many lead to quiet courtyards with Venetian-era stone palaces.

📍 Gradska Loža and surrounding lanes, Trogir old town

12:00

Lunch at a waterfront konoba on Trogir's Riva

Order grilled fish or black risotto (crni rižot) — both are local Dalmatian staples. In November, restaurants are less rushed and portions tend to be generous; no reservation needed.

📍 Obala bana Berislavića (Trogir waterfront promenade)

13:30

Return journey to Split along the coastal road

The bus or taxi ride back offers pleasant coastal glimpses of the Kaštela Riviera. Budget 40–50 minutes including wait time.

📍 Depart Trogir toward Split

14:30

Afternoon beach time along Split's Adriatic waterfront

Bačvice is Split's most beloved urban beach, just 10 minutes' walk south of the old town. November water is cool but the pebbly shore and sea air are invigorating; pack a layer for the breeze.

📍 Bačvice Beach or Kaštelet Beach, Split

16:30

Sunset walk along the Riva promenade

The Riva faces west and offers a gorgeous late-afternoon light over the harbor and Brač island. November sunsets come early — around 16:45 — so arrive in time to watch the sky turn gold over the Adriatic.

📍 Obala Hrvatskog narodnog preporoda (the Riva), Split

18:00

Farewell seafood dinner in Split's old town

Both are beloved local institutions within easy walking distance of the palace walls. Order the catch-of-the-day with a glass of local Pošip white wine to close a quintessential Dalmatian day; book ahead in the evening as these fill even in low season.

📍 Restoran Fife or Konoba Fetivi, Split

20:00

Evening stroll and return to Golden View 7

Pack lightly tonight for an early airport departure tomorrow morning. Lay out documents and confirm your transfer or taxi booked in advance for the morning flight.

📍 Split old town to hotel, Split

21:30

Early night at Golden View 7

A good night's rest is essential before an early departure day. Set your alarm and confirm the morning pickup time with hotel reception.

📍 Golden View 7, Split

22:00

10

📍 10

05:00

Wake up and final hotel checkout

Pack the night before to keep the morning stress-free. Settle any outstanding charges at checkout; the front desk may offer an early-morning bag drop if you have an excess.

📍 Golden View 7, Split

05:30

Transfer to Split Airport (SPU)

The airport is roughly 25 km from the city center; allow 30–40 minutes by pre-booked taxi or private transfer. Book the transfer in advance — early-morning taxis can be scarce.

📍 En route from Split city center to Split Airport

06:15

Airport arrival, check-in, and security

Arrive at least 90 minutes before a 07:45 departure. Drop bags, clear security, and allow extra time for any EU exit formalities at the border.

📍 Split Airport (SPU), Resnik

07:45

Departure flight from Split to connecting hub

Board on time; this early morning slot typically has light traffic and on-time performance is strong. Confirm your full routing and connection airport the evening before.

📍 Split Airport (SPU), Gate area

21:40

Arrival at Harry Reid International Airport, Las Vegas

Arrival time is local Las Vegas time. Clear US customs and baggage claim, then arrange your onward ground transport home — rideshare pickup is from Level 2 of the terminal.

📍 Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), Las Vegas, USA

13:40

Arrival at Harry Reid International Airport

Flight lands at 21:40 UTC on Nov 11, converting to 1:40 PM local PST on Nov 12. Proceed through immigration and baggage claim; with long-haul fatigue, allow 60–90 minutes to clear customs and collect luggage.

📍 Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), Las Vegas, NV

15:15

Ground transfer to hotel or home

Rideshare pickup is on Level 2M of the terminal; pre-booking a ride or arranging a car service saves time after a long international journey. Traffic on the Strip corridor is manageable mid-afternoon.

📍 Harry Reid International Airport arrivals level

16:30

Rest, shower, and decompress

After 30+ hours of travel, a proper rest before any evening activity is strongly advised. Keep the remainder of the afternoon low-key to fight jet lag.

📍 Your hotel or home, Las Vegas

19:00

Celebratory welcome-home dinner

Treat yourself to a relaxed sit-down meal to close out the Mediterranean journey — no reservations pressure, just enjoy being home. A glass of wine and a good meal is the perfect bookend to the trip.

📍 A favorite Las Vegas restaurant of your choice

12-Day Valletta → Syracuse → Split Itinerary — Autumn 2026 - Mediterranean Sea Lanes: Malta to Croatia

Day 1 — 2026-11-01

Day 2 — 2026-11-02

Day 3 — 2026-11-03

Day 4 — 2026-11-04

Day 5 — 2026-11-05

Day 6 — 2026-11-06

Day 7 — 2026-11-07

Day 8 — 2026-11-08

Day 9 — 2026-11-09

Day 10 — 2026-11-10

Day 11 — 2026-11-11

Day 12 — 2026-11-12

Planning a trip like this one?