12-Day Valletta → Syracuse → Split Itinerary — Autumn 2026

14:00

Depart home for Washington Dulles International Airport

Allow at least 3 hours before departure for an international overnight flight. Traffic on the Dulles Toll Road can be heavy in the afternoon, so build in extra buffer.

📍 Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), Dulles, VA

17:00

Check in, clear security, and reach the international departures terminal

Confirm your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date. Use TSA PreCheck or Global Entry lanes if enrolled to save time.

📍 IAD International Terminal D/E

19:00

Pre-flight dinner at the airport

Eat a proper meal now rather than relying on in-flight service — this sets your body clock for European time. A light, protein-focused meal helps with overnight travel.

📍 IAD Terminal D/E dining options (e.g., Vino Volo or similar sit-down option near your gate)

21:30

Board and settle in for the overnight transatlantic flight to Malta

Boarding typically begins 45–50 minutes before departure. Set your watch to Malta time (UTC+1 in November) as soon as you board to begin adjusting.

📍 Gate area, IAD International Terminal

22:10

Departure: Flight to Malta International Airport (MLA)

Overnight flight duration is approximately 10–11 hours. Use an eye mask, noise-canceling headphones, and try to sleep early in the flight to minimize jet lag on arrival.

📍 Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)

16:00

Arrive at Malta International Airport (MLA)

November arrivals are typically swift — EU/EEA queues move fast and baggage is usually on the belt within 20 minutes. Head straight to the taxi rank or pre-booked transfer outside Arrivals; avoid unlicensed touts.

📍 Malta International Airport, Luqa, Malta

16:30

Transfer to Valletta by taxi or pre-booked private transfer

The ride takes roughly 20–30 minutes depending on traffic. A metered white taxi costs around €15–20; agree on the metered fare before departing. Ask to be dropped as close to Sally Port as luggage allows, as Valletta's streets are narrow and largely pedestrianized.

📍 Luqa to Valletta (approx. 8 km)

17:00

Check in at 31 Sally Port

This boutique guesthouse sits within the bastions themselves, with dramatic harbour views. Drop luggage, freshen up briefly, and ask the host for a quick orientation on the neighbourhood — they tend to offer excellent local tips.

📍 31 Sally Port, Valletta, Malta

17:45

Sunset stroll along the Valletta waterfront and Upper Barrakka area

November sunset falls around 17:00–17:30 Malta time, so the golden-hour light lingers on the honey-colored limestone bastions well into early dusk — perfect for a slow first wander. Stroll toward the Grand Harbour and linger at the waterfront railings for your first view of the Three Cities glowing across the water.

📍 Strait Street to Great Siege Road and the Grand Harbour waterfront, Valletta

18:30

Pre-dinner aperitivo at a harbourside bar

Valletta's Strait Street — the old 'Gut' of wartime sailors — has been reborn as a lively strip of wine bars and small plates. Trabuxu is a cellar bar carved into the bastions, ideal for a first glass of Maltese Meridiana or Marsovin wine. No reservation needed early on a weekday.

📍 Trabuxu Wine Bar or Strait Street, Valletta

19:30

Welcome dinner of Maltese seafood and traditional cuisine

Noni (on Republic Street) is inventive and locally lauded — book ahead as tables are limited. For something more traditional, Rubino has served Maltese classics like stuffed lampuki (mahi-mahi) and bragioli since 1906. Either option is within easy walking distance of 31 Sally Port.

📍 Noni Restaurant or Rubino, Valletta

21:00

Evening walk back through Republic Street and return to hotel

Valletta quiets down noticeably after 21:00 in November — a peaceful contrast to summer. The illuminated baroque facades along Republic Street are particularly beautiful on foot; the walk back takes under ten minutes. Early rest is well-earned after a transatlantic journey.

📍 Republic Street to 31 Sally Port, Valletta

08:00

Breakfast at Valletta's Trabuxu Bistro or a local café on Republic Street

Grab a classic Maltese ftira (stuffed bread roll) and a strong coffee to fuel the day. Cafés along Republic Street open early and fill up quickly by mid-morning.

📍 Republic Street, Valletta

09:00

St. John's Co-Cathedral — opening visit

Arrive right at opening (09:00) to beat tour groups and experience the jaw-dropping gilded interior in relative peace. Book tickets online in advance (€15); the Caravaggio works — 'The Beheading of Saint John' and 'Saint Jerome Writing' — are highlights not to rush past.

📍 St. John's Street, Valletta

10:30

Explore the Cathedral Museum and oratory collections

The museum attached to the cathedral houses the original Caravaggio canvases and an exceptional collection of Flemish tapestries. Allow a full hour here; audio guides are included with admission.

📍 St. John's Co-Cathedral complex, Valletta

11:30

Grandmaster's Palace and State Rooms

A short walk up Republic Street brings you to the Knights' grand seat of power. The Armoury (tickets separate, ~€10) is world-class; the State Rooms may have limited access depending on parliamentary sessions — check ahead at heritagemalta.mt.

📍 Palace Square, Republic Street, Valletta

13:00

Lunch at Nenu the Artisan Baker

This beloved lunch spot specializes in traditional Maltese dishes — stuffed pastizzi, rabbit stew, and bigilla dip served in a charming converted bakehouse. Arrive promptly as it fills up; no reservations taken for lunch.

📍 St. Dominic Street, Valletta

14:15

Walk the spine of Valletta — Republic Street to Merchants Street

A leisurely post-lunch wander through Valletta's main arteries lets you absorb the Baroque streetscapes and browse local shops. The parallel streets offer quieter perspectives away from the main tourist flow.

📍 Republic Street to Merchants Street, Valletta

15:00

Upper Barrakka Gardens and the Saluting Battery

The Saluting Battery cannon salute fires daily at 12:00 and 16:00 — position yourself in the gardens by 15:45 to secure a front-row view of the 16:00 gun. The panorama over the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities from the gardens is the finest in Valletta.

📍 St. Peter & Paul Bastion, Valletta

16:15

Lascaris War Rooms (underground tunnels)

The WWII-era tunnels directly below the gardens are accessed via a separate entrance; tickets are around €10. The atmospheric underground operations rooms are rarely crowded in November — a perfect post-cannon complement to the fortifications theme.

📍 Lascaris Ditch, beneath Upper Barrakka Gardens, Valletta

17:30

Aperitivo hour at Trabuxu Wine Bar

Strait Street — Valletta's historic 'Gut,' once the haunt of sailors — has been reborn as the city's hippest bar strip. Trabuxu offers an excellent selection of Maltese wines by the glass; ask for a local Marsovin Medina Red.

📍 Triq id-Dejqa (Strait Street), Valletta

19:00

Dinner at Rubino Ristorante e Bar

One of Valletta's oldest and most respected restaurants, Rubino serves refined Maltese cuisine in an intimate setting — rabbit in wine sauce and lampuki (dolphin fish) are seasonal stars in November. Reservations are essential; book at least 2–3 days ahead.

📍 Old Bakery Street, Valletta

20:30

Evening walk along the City Gate and Renzo Piano bastions

The dramatically lit modern City Gate and Parliament building designed by Renzo Piano are best appreciated after dark. The short walk loops back naturally toward 31 Sally Port for an easy return to the hotel.

📍 City Gate, Valletta

21:30

Return to 31 Sally Port

A full day on foot through stone bastions and Baroque interiors calls for an early rest. Valletta's streets are quiet and safe at night — enjoy the amber-lit silence of the fortified capital.

📍 31 Sally Port, Valletta

22:00

End of day — overnight at 31 Sally Port

Settle in and rest well; November evenings in Valletta are cool and crisp, perfect sleeping weather. Ensure any advance bookings for the following day are confirmed.

📍 Valletta, Malta

08:00

Breakfast at a local café near 31 Sally Port

Try a traditional Maltese ftira (bread roll) with bigilla bean paste and ġbejniet cheese at a neighborhood bar. November mornings can be cool, so a hot coffee or tea is a welcome start.

📍 Valletta city center, near St. Barbara Bastion

09:15

Walk to the Lower Barrakka Gardens and take in the Grand Harbour panorama

A quieter counterpart to the Upper Barrakka, the gardens offer a sweeping early-morning view of the Three Cities across the water — perfect framing before you head over by boat. Entry is free.

📍 Lower Barrakka Gardens, Valletta

09:45

Board a traditional dghajsa (water taxi) across the Grand Harbour to Vittoriosa

The dghajsa are brightly painted traditional Maltese oar-driven boats; ask for the crossing to Vittoriosa Wharf (Birgu). The crossing takes about 10 minutes and costs just a few euros — agree on the fare before you board.

📍 Valletta Waterfront / Customs House Steps, Grand Harbour

10:00

Explore Vittoriosa (Birgu) — medieval streets, auberges, and waterfront

Wander Triq il-Majjistral and the narrow alleys radiating from the main square; look for the Knights' auberges and the original Order of St. John fortifications. The town is compact but deeply layered — give yourself an unhurried 90 minutes.

📍 Vittoriosa (Birgu), Three Cities

11:30

Tour Fort St. Angelo

This fortress anchored the Knights' defense during the Great Siege of 1565 and is one of Malta's most storied monuments; book tickets online in advance as timed entry slots can fill up. Allow 60–75 minutes to explore the bastions, chapel, and harbor views from the upper terraces.

📍 Fort St. Angelo, Vittoriosa waterfront

13:00

Lunch at a waterfront restaurant in Vittoriosa

The marina restaurants serve excellent grilled fresh fish and pasta with local sea urchin (ricci) in season; Tal-Petut is a beloved local choice but reservations are essential — alternatively, the marina cafés are more casual and walk-in friendly.

📍 Vittoriosa Marina / Birgu Waterfront

14:15

Walk the fortified bridge to Senglea and explore the Gardjola watchtower

Senglea's famous Gardjola (watchtower) at the tip of the peninsula has stone-carved eyes and ears — an iconic Maltese image — and a small garden with an extraordinary panorama of the Grand Harbour. The walk from Vittoriosa across the footbridge takes about 10 minutes.

📍 Senglea (L-Isla), Three Cities

15:15

Pass through Cospicua and walk its inland fortifications

Cospicua is the most lived-in and least touristy of the three cities; stroll the Margherita Lines (the outer ring of Baroque fortifications) for an authentic local feel. The town's Immaculate Conception parish church is worth a quick look inside.

📍 Cospicua (Bormla), Three Cities

16:15

Return dghajsa crossing back to Valletta

Dghajsa boats run until early evening; pick up the crossing from Vittoriosa or walk back through Cospicua to Senglea for the alternate crossing point. Confirm the last departure time with your boatman in the morning.

📍 Vittoriosa Wharf or Senglea Steps to Valletta Customs House Steps

17:00

Sunset stroll along Valletta's fortification walls toward St. Elmo's breakwater

November sunsets come early (around 17:15–17:30) and paint the honey-colored limestone a deep amber — the view from the tip of Valletta's peninsula over the harbour mouth is spectacular. Dress in a light layer as the sea breeze picks up after dark.

📍 St. Elmo's Point, Valletta

19:30

Dinner in Valletta — Maltese cuisine and local wine

Strait Street (il-Strada Stretta), once the sailors' haunt, now hosts some of Valletta's best restaurants; try fenek (rabbit stew) or lampuki (mahi-mahi) with a glass of Meridiana Maltese white wine. Reservations recommended for Saturday evening.

📍 Republic Street or Strait Street area, Valletta

08:30

Check-out from 31 Sally Port and transfer to Malta International Airport

Allow at least 90 minutes before departure. Settle your bill the night before to keep the morning smooth; the airport is roughly 20–25 minutes by taxi from Valletta.

📍 Malta International Airport (MLA), Valletta, Malta

10:00

Arrive at Malta International Airport and clear departure

November is off-peak so security queues are short, but use the extra time to grab a coffee and enjoy a relaxed departure. Check in online in advance to skip the desk.

📍 Malta International Airport (MLA), Luqa, Malta

12:30

Board flight to Catania Fontanarossa Airport

The flight is just 50 minutes — a true island-hop. Keep your carry-on light; there is no need to check bags for this leg.

📍 Malta International Airport, Gate Area

13:20

Land at Catania Fontanarossa and collect luggage

Arrivals are compact and quick. Pre-book a private transfer or grab a taxi from the official rank outside Arrivals — fix the price before you go; the standard metered fare to Ortigia is around €55–70.

📍 Catania Fontanarossa Airport (CTA), Catania, Sicily, Italy

14:00

Transfer by taxi from Catania airport to Ortigia, Syracuse

The drive is roughly 60–70 minutes along the eastern Sicilian coast. Ask the driver to take the coastal road into Ortigia for a scenic first impression of the island.

📍 Catania–Syracuse motorway (A18/SS114), Sicily

15:15

Check in at Rosalia House and freshen up

Ortigia's lanes are too narrow for taxis, so expect to walk the last 5–10 minutes with your luggage; the hotel can advise the closest drop-off point. Settle in and rest briefly before the afternoon walk.

📍 Rosalia House, Ortigia, Syracuse, Italy

16:30

First stroll through Ortigia's ancient lanes

Wander south from Via della Maestranza toward the sea walls — November light at this hour turns the honey-colored baroque facades golden. There is no fixed route; let yourself get pleasantly lost in the 2,700-year-old street grid.

📍 Ortigia island, Syracuse, Italy

17:45

Evening passeggiata at Piazza del Duomo

This grand baroque square built over a Greek temple of Athena is the social heart of Ortigia at dusk. Find a bench or lean on the cathedral steps and watch locals promenade — this is the authentic Sicilian passeggiata at its best.

📍 Piazza del Duomo, Ortigia, Syracuse, Italy

19:00

Aperitivo at a piazza-side bar

Order a Sicilian Spritz (Aperol with local sparkling wine) or a glass of Nero d'Avola alongside a plate of local olives and caponata. This is a light, social bridge between sightseeing and dinner.

📍 Piazza del Duomo or Via Cavour, Ortigia, Syracuse

20:30

Seafood dinner in Ortigia

Look for restaurants serving spaghetti alle vongole, grilled swordfish, or the local specialty pasta con le sarde. Book ahead even in November — the best spots along the Lungomare Alfeo fill quickly on weekends.

📍 Ortigia waterfront or Via della Giudecca area, Syracuse, Italy

08:00

Breakfast at a local bar near Rosalia House

Grab a cornetto and granita di caffè at any bar on Via Roma or Via Cavour — this is the classic Sicilian breakfast. Stand at the counter like a local; it is cheaper and faster.

📍 Ortigia, Syracuse

09:00

Walk to and explore the Temple of Apollo

This 6th-century BC Doric temple sits at the entrance to Ortigia and is free to view from outside; the remains are most atmospheric in morning light before tour groups gather. It takes 20–30 minutes to appreciate fully.

📍 Piazza Pancali, Ortigia, Syracuse

09:45

Transfer to Neapolis Archaeological Park

Take a taxi or the AST bus from Ortigia (Piazza della Posta stop) — the park is about 2.5 km from the island. Journey takes 10–15 minutes. Buy entrance tickets on arrival; no advance booking required in November.

📍 Viale Augusto / Largo Anfiteatro, Syracuse

10:00

Neapolis Archaeological Park — Greek Theatre

The 5th-century BC Greek Theatre is one of the largest and best-preserved in the ancient world; arrive early to enjoy it before midday visitors. Walk the cavea from top to bottom for the full sense of scale and the sweeping view toward the sea.

📍 Parco Archeologico della Neapolis, Syracuse

11:00

Ear of Dionysius and the Latomie quarries

This enormous limestone cave is named for its extraordinary echo — clap once sharply near the entrance and listen. Wander the adjacent Latomie del Paradiso garden, a sunken ancient quarry overgrown with citrus and palms, for a quiet 20 minutes of genuine atmosphere.

📍 Parco Archeologico della Neapolis, Syracuse

12:00

Roman Amphitheatre within the park

Just steps from the Greek Theatre, the 2nd-century AD Roman elliptical amphitheatre is included in the same park ticket. Compact and uncrowded in November, it makes an excellent final stop before leaving the park.

📍 Parco Archeologico della Neapolis, Syracuse

12:45

Lunch near the archaeological park

Several trattorias cluster just outside the park entrance; look for the daily-written pasta boards over laminated tourist menus. A simple pasta alla Norma or arancino at a bar is also a perfectly honest Sicilian midday meal.

📍 Via Augusto / surrounding via, Syracuse

14:15

Transfer back to Ortigia and a restorative coffee break

Return by taxi or bus and allow yourself 30 minutes to decompress with an espresso or granita before the afternoon. The stone streets of Ortigia are remarkably quiet between 14:00 and 16:00.

📍 Ortigia, Syracuse

16:00

Museo Archeologico Regionale Paolo Orsi

One of Italy's finest archaeological museums contextualizes everything seen at Neapolis with original sculptures, coins, and artifacts from the Greek and Roman periods. Allow 90 minutes; it closes at 19:00 on most days — confirm hours on arrival. A 10-minute walk or short taxi from central Ortigia.

📍 Viale Teocrito 66, Syracuse (just outside Ortigia)

19:30

Evening passeggiata and aperitivo on Ortigia

Join the slow Sicilian evening stroll along Via della Maestranza and up to Piazza del Duomo, which glows beautifully under the street lamps in November. Stop at any enoteca for a glass of Nero d'Avola and some olives before dinner.

📍 Via della Maestranza / Piazza del Duomo, Ortigia, Syracuse

20:30

Dinner at a seafood restaurant in Ortigia

Osteria da Mariano (Via della Maestranza) and Ristorante Don Camillo (Via della Maestranza 92) are local favorites for fresh swordfish and sea urchin pasta; reserve ahead or arrive promptly at opening. November is low season so reservations are easier to secure but still worthwhile on weekends.

📍 Ortigia, Syracuse

08:30

Breakfast at a Ortigia café

Order a granita con brioche — the classic Sicilian morning combo. Many bars display fresh pastries early; arrive by 08:30 before the best cornetti sell out.

📍 Bar/café near Via della Maestranza, Ortigia

09:15

Ortigia Market browse and shop

The market runs Tuesday–Saturday roughly 08:00–13:00; arrive mid-morning for the liveliest atmosphere. Pick up local anchovies, capers, blood-orange marmalade, or Pachino tomatoes as edible souvenirs — vendors happily vacuum-seal for travel.

📍 Via Emanuele de Benedictis / Piazza Cesare Battisti, Ortigia

10:30

Wander the Baroque lanes of Ortigia

This is pure unscheduled strolling time — peek into ornate palazzo doorways, admire the sculptural balcony brackets, and let the honey-stone streets lead you. November crowds are thin, making this the ideal hour for unhurried photography.

📍 Via Roma, Via della Maestranza, and surrounding alleys, Ortigia

11:15

Fonte Aretusa

The freshwater spring fed by an underground channel from the Greek mainland was sacred to the nymph Arethusa; papyrus still grows here — one of the few places outside Egypt it does. Entry to the overlook is free; a small fee applies to descend to the spring terrace level.

📍 Largo Aretusa, waterfront, Ortigia

12:00

Coastal walk along the Ortigia seafront

The eastern promenade offers dramatic views of the open Mediterranean and, on clear November days, sharp light perfect for photography. The short walk from Aretusa south toward Castello Maniace takes roughly 20 minutes at a leisurely pace.

📍 Lungomare di Levante / Via dei Mille, eastern shore, Ortigia

13:00

Lunch at a seafront trattoria

Ask for whatever the daily catch is — swordfish and red mullet are common in autumn. A reservation the day before is wise at the better spots; otherwise, arrive right at 13:00 to secure a table without waiting.

📍 Ristorante area near Via dei Mille or Piazza Federico di Svevia, Ortigia

14:30

Castello Maniace

The 13th-century Hohenstaufen castle sits at the very tip of the island with sweeping sea views on three sides; it is one of southern Italy's finest medieval fortresses. Admission is modest (around €4); the outer bastions and courtyard are as impressive as the interior halls.

📍 Piazza Federico di Svevia, southern tip of Ortigia

16:00

Afternoon coffee and people-watching at Piazza del Duomo

The square is quieter in the late afternoon after tourist groups thin out — the perfect moment to sit on the café terrace of Caffè Minerva and take in the Baroque façade of the cathedral at a low November sun angle.

📍 Piazza del Duomo, Ortigia

17:30

Sunset from the Ortigia western waterfront

The western side of the island faces the inner Porto Grande, where the setting sun silhouettes the city skyline and fishing boats. This is one of the most photogenic moments of any stay in Syracuse.

📍 Lungoporto di Levante / area near Porta Marina, Ortigia

19:30

Farewell seafood dinner in Ortigia

Order the local specialty pasta con le sarde (pasta with sardines, pine nuts, and wild fennel) or a full grilled-fish secondo. Reserve a table in advance; November dining in Sicily starts later than Northern Europe, so 19:30–20:00 is perfectly local timing.

📍 A restaurant in the historic center, Ortigia — such as near Via Cavour or Piazza Archimede

08:00

Leisurely breakfast in Ortigia

November mornings are quiet and unhurried on Ortigia — grab a cornetto and cappuccino at a local bar. This is your last taste of Sicilian coffee culture, so linger.

📍 Rosalia House or a nearby café on Ortigia island, Syracuse

09:15

Final morning wander through Ortigia's baroque lanes

Stroll the narrow alleys around Via della Maestranza and past the Cathedral facade at your own pace. Shops open late in Sicily, so the streets are calm and photogenic at this hour.

📍 Ortigia island, Syracuse, Italy

10:30

Check out of Rosalia House and load luggage

Confirm checkout time with the property; most allow luggage storage if needed for a final hour. Have your transfer to Catania pre-arranged for this slot.

📍 Rosalia House, Ortigia, Syracuse

11:00

Private transfer or bus from Ortigia to Catania Fontanarossa Airport

The drive from Ortigia to Catania airport is approximately 60–75 minutes depending on traffic. A pre-booked private transfer is strongly recommended over relying on buses with luggage and a firm flight time.

📍 Ortigia, Syracuse → Catania Fontanarossa Airport (CTA)

12:15

Arrive at Catania Fontanarossa Airport and check in

Aim to be at the departures hall by 12:30 at the latest for a 15:25 departure. Security queues can build midday; EU carry-on rules apply on this route.

📍 Catania Fontanarossa Airport (CTA), Catania, Italy

15:25

Depart Catania on flight to Split

Flight duration is approximately 1 hour 40 minutes. Split Airport is compact; immigration for EU arrivals (Croatia is Schengen) is straightforward.

📍 Catania Fontanarossa Airport (CTA), Gate TBC

19:05

Arrive at Split Airport (SPU)

The airport is about 25 km from central Split; a pre-booked transfer or the airport bus (line 37, drops at the main bus station near the old town) takes 30–45 minutes.

📍 Split Airport (SPU), Kaštela, Croatia

20:00

Transfer into Split and check in at Golden View 8

Confirm the host's key-handover arrangement in advance — many Split apartments use a code or meet-and-greet. Drop luggage and freshen up before heading out.

📍 Golden View 8, Split, Croatia

20:45

First evening dinner on the Riva promenade

November is low season so walk-in tables are generally easy to find; aim for a konoba (traditional Croatian tavern) just off Riva for better value than the front-row tourist spots. Try the black risotto (crni rižot) for a local welcome meal.

📍 Riva waterfront promenade, Split old town

08:00

Breakfast at Fife konoba

A beloved local spot serving hearty Croatian breakfasts — arrive early as seating is limited. Try the eggs with smoked ham and fresh bread before the palace crowds build.

📍 Trumbićeva obala 11, near the Riva promenade, Split

09:00

Enter Diocletian's Palace through the Golden Gate (Porta Aurea)

The Golden Gate is the most impressive of the four Roman gates — entering from the north gives you the full processional axis down to the Peristyle. No ticket needed to walk the palace streets; it is a living neighborhood open 24 hours.

📍 Dioklecijanova ulica, north side of the palace walls, Split

09:15

Wander the palace's marble lanes and vestibule

The circular vestibule just south of the Peristyle is the domed antechamber to Diocletian's apartments — stand inside at opening time to catch the light falling through the open oculus with almost no other visitors.

📍 Inside Diocletian's Palace, central sector, Split

10:00

Peristyle Square — heart of the Roman palace

This colonnaded square was Diocletian's ceremonial forecourt and is still the social heart of the old town. November crowds are thin; linger to study the sphinx brought from Egypt and the column capitals up close.

📍 Peristil, Diocletian's Palace, Split

10:30

Climb the Cathedral of St. Domnius bell tower

The cathedral itself is built inside Diocletian's mausoleum — a remarkable layering of Roman, early Christian, and medieval architecture. The bell tower climb (entry fee ~40 HRK) rewards with a panoramic view over the rooftop maze of the palace and the Adriatic harbor.

📍 Kraj Sv. Duje 5, Peristyle Square, Split

11:30

Explore the underground palace cellars (Podrumi)

These barrel-vaulted Roman cellars directly mirror the layout of the imperial apartments above and are remarkably well preserved. Allow 45 minutes; the southern exit opens dramatically onto the Riva promenade.

📍 Palace cellars entrance, Obala Hrvatskog narodnog preporoda, south side, Split

13:00

Lunch at Konoba Matejuška

A short walk west of the palace walls brings you to this harbor-side konoba beloved by locals. Order grilled fish of the day or black risotto — arrive by 13:00 to secure a table without a reservation.

📍 Tomićeva ulica 3, Matejuška fishing harbor, Split

14:30

Iron Gate (Porta Ferrea) and the medieval street grid

The western gate area leads into a tangle of medieval lanes built directly over Roman foundations — look down through glass floors in several shops to see Roman street level below. This quarter has fewer tourists than the Peristyle axis.

📍 Stari Grad (Old Town), western quarter of the palace walls, Split

15:30

Ethnographic Museum of Split

Housed in a Gothic-Renaissance palace within the old town, this compact museum offers a vivid picture of Dalmatian folk life and closes the cultural loop between Roman and living Croatian heritage. Entry is modest (~15 HRK); plan 45 minutes.

📍 Severova 1 (in the old town palace walls), Split

16:30

Riva promenade golden-hour walk

The November sun sets early and low, painting the harbor and the Hvar island silhouette in warm light by 17:00. Grab a coffee at any waterfront café and watch the evening fishing boats return — a perfect close to a day inside ancient stone.

📍 Obala Hrvatskog narodnog preporoda (the Riva), Split waterfront

19:30

Dinner at Restoran Sperun

A five-minute walk uphill from the Riva into the Varoš quarter, Sperun has served honest Dalmatian cuisine for decades. Reserve ahead even in November; the lamb under peka and the house wine from the Plavac Mali grape are the picks.

📍 Sperun 3, Varoš neighborhood, Split

07:30

Breakfast at the hotel or a nearby café

Fuel up before the day trip — grab a pastry and strong Croatian kava at a local café on the Riva or near the Palace walls. Most cafés open by 07:00 and are uncrowded this early in November.

📍 Golden View 8 area, Split

08:30

Depart Split for Salona (Solin) by taxi or rental car

The drive takes roughly 15–20 minutes. A taxi is the easiest option; agree on a fare in advance or ask for the meter. Parking is available at the Salona site entrance if driving.

📍 Solin, approx. 6 km northeast of Split

09:00

Explore Salona Roman ruins — Manastirine necropolis and city walls

Start at the Manastirine early Christian necropolis near the entrance, then walk the crumbling city walls for sweeping context of the ancient Roman capital of Dalmatia. November crowds are minimal — you may have the site nearly to yourself.

📍 Salona Archaeological Site, Solin

10:00

Amphitheatre, Episcopial Complex, and Forum at Salona

The partially excavated amphitheatre held 18,000 spectators and is one of the largest in the Roman world — walk the outer walls for scale. The Episcopal Complex nearby shows early Christian layers atop Roman foundations; pick up the site map at the small entrance kiosk (entry fee ~40 HRK).

📍 Salona Archaeological Site, Solin

11:15

Drive west to Trogir

The drive takes about 30 minutes via the coastal road (D8). Alternatively, a direct bus runs from Split to Trogir frequently and stops near Solin — useful if you prefer not to drive.

📍 Trogir, approx. 27 km west of Solin

12:00

Arrive in Trogir and walk the UNESCO old-town island

Cross the small bridge onto the island and wander the Venetian-era lanes freely — the entire old town is pedestrianized and compact enough to explore on foot in a morning. November light is gorgeous on the pale stone at midday.

📍 Trogir Old Town, Trogir

12:30

Cathedral of St. Lawrence — Portal of Radovan and bell tower climb

Radovan's 13th-century carved portal is considered the finest Romanesque sculpture in Croatia — spend time reading the biblical scenes and local life depicted across its pillars. Climb the bell tower for panoramic views over the Adriatic and the Kastela Riviera.

📍 Trg Ivana Pavla II (Cathedral Square), Trogir

13:30

Lunch at a konoba on the Trogir waterfront

Konoba Trs and Konoba Fontana are reliable choices for grilled fish, black risotto, and local Pošip white wine. In November, book ahead or arrive right at opening — kitchens fill quickly on weekends.

📍 Obala bana Berislavića (Trogir Riva), Trogir

15:00

Kamerlengo Fortress and Trogir city walls

The 15th-century Venetian fortress is open to visitors for a small fee and offers the best vantage point over the channel toward Čiovo island. Walk the remaining wall section back toward the town gate for a complete loop of the island perimeter.

📍 Kamerlengo Fortress, southwest tip of Trogir island

16:30

Return to Split by bus or taxi

Buses depart frequently (every 20–30 minutes) from the stop just outside the old-town bridge and take about 45 minutes to Split's main bus station, which is a short walk from the Riva. In November, the last buses run well into the evening.

📍 Trogir Bus Station to Split Bus Station

19:30

Dinner in Split — seafood in the old town

End the day with a relaxed dinner inside or just outside the Palace walls. Restoran Zrno Soli and Konoba Matejuška (near the fishing harbour) both showcase fresh Dalmatian seafood and local wines; reservations recommended for the evening sitting.

📍 Diocletian's Palace area or Marmontova, Split

05:00

Wake up, final pack, and hotel check-out

Settle your bill the night before if possible to speed morning departure. Leave luggage with reception or load directly into your transfer vehicle.

📍 Golden View 8, Split

05:30

Pre-dawn walk to Riva promenade for a farewell stroll

The Riva is deserted and atmospheric before sunrise — street lamps reflect on the Adriatic and the palace walls glow amber. A brief, unhurried farewell to Split's most iconic waterfront.

📍 Riva Promenade, Split Old Town

05:50

Coffee and pastry at an early-opening café on the Riva

A handful of cafés near the ferry terminal open by 05:30 for early ferry commuters; order a kava i kroasan (coffee and croissant) and watch the harbour lights. This is your last taste of Croatian café culture.

📍 Riva Promenade, Split

06:15

Transfer to Split Airport

The airport is roughly 25 minutes from the Riva by taxi or pre-booked transfer; depart no later than 06:15 for a 07:45 departure. Pre-book your transfer the evening before — street taxis at this hour can be scarce.

📍 Split Airport (SPU), Kaštela

06:45

Airport check-in and security

SPU is a small airport but can queue quickly at peak check-in windows; aim to be through security by 07:10 to allow comfortable boarding time. Have your passport and any EU entry documents ready.

📍 Split Airport (SPU)

07:45

Departure from Split Airport

Flight departs 07:45 bound for Washington Dulles (IAD), arriving 18:30 local time. Confirm your connection city and any transit visa requirements in advance if routing through a non-Schengen hub.

📍 Split Airport (SPU)

18:30

Arrival at Washington Dulles International Airport

Allow 60–90 minutes for immigration, baggage claim, and customs on arrival. Welcome home.

📍 Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), Washington D.C., USA

05:30

Wake up and final hotel checkout at Golden View 8

Set an early alarm — checkout must be completed before the taxi departs. Leave luggage packed the night before to keep the morning stress-free.

📍 Golden View 8, Split, Croatia

06:00

Taxi transfer to Split Airport (SPU)

The drive from central Split to the airport takes roughly 25–30 minutes in early morning traffic. Confirm your taxi booking the evening prior; rideshare apps are less reliable at this hour.

📍 Split Airport (SPU), Kaštela, Croatia

06:30

Airport check-in, security, and departure gate

Allow at least 75 minutes before a 07:45 departure for check-in, bag drop, and security. November is low season so queues are short, but passport control can add time on international itineraries.

📍 Split Airport (SPU) — Departures Hall

07:45

Depart Split Airport — flight to Washington Dulles (IAD)

Your routing likely connects through a European hub (e.g., Frankfurt, Vienna, or London); confirm your connection terminal and allow yourself time to stretch and grab a proper meal during the layover.

📍 Split Airport (SPU), departing toward Washington Dulles (IAD)

18:30

Arrive Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)

Dulles arrival involves a customs and CBP passport control queue — allow 45–75 minutes post-landing before you are through baggage claim. Mobile Passport Control or a Global Entry kiosk will dramatically speed up clearance if you have either.

📍 Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), Dulles, Virginia, USA

19:30

Ground transport home from Dulles

The Silver Line Express bus connects IAD to Wiehle–Reston East Metro station in about 10 minutes (cheap and reliable); taxis and rideshares depart from the arrivals curb. Pre-book a rideshare or car service the night before if you prefer door-to-door comfort after a long travel day.

📍 Washington Dulles — Ground Transportation Level

12-Day Valletta → Syracuse → Split Itinerary — Autumn 2026 - Mediterranean Stone & Sea

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Day 2 — 2026-11-13

Day 3 — 2026-11-14

Day 4 — 2026-11-15

Day 5 — 2026-11-16

Day 6 — 2026-11-17

Day 7 — 2026-11-18

Day 8 — 2026-11-19

Day 9 — 2026-11-20

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Day 11 — 2026-11-22

Day 12 — 2026-11-23

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