Discover Split and Trogir with Lunch at Sikuli Winery

Discover Split and Trogir with Lunch at Sikuli Winery: An Authentic Croatian Experience

If you’re looking for a day trip that combines history, culture, charming towns, and a taste of local wine, this tour offers a compelling package. Focused on providing insight into Split’s ancient roots and the picturesque beauty of Trogir, it pairs sightseeing with a relaxing wine lunch at the family-run Sikuli Winery. While it’s priced at around $226, the experience promises a well-structured day, filled with plenty of opportunities for authentic memories and photo-worthy moments.

What we appreciate most is how this tour balances guided exploration with free time to soak in each locale’s vibe. The inclusion of private transportation and a dedicated guide** ensures you won’t feel rushed or lost in the crowd. However, the overall length—about 6 to 7 hours—means it’s best suited for travelers eager to see key sights without overloading their day. If you enjoy history with a touch of local flavor and a good glass of wine at the end, this experience is likely to tick many boxes.

One potential consideration is the cost, especially since lunch isn’t included in the price. Also, since it’s a private tour booked far in advance (an average of 135 days), last-minute planners might find scheduling a challenge. That said, for those who value personalized guidance and a thoughtfully curated itinerary, this tour stands out as a worthwhile way to explore some of Croatia’s most beautiful spots.

This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts, wine lovers, and travelers seeking a blend of cultural sights and authentic local flavor. It’s especially suitable for those who prefer a comfortable, guided day that takes the hassle out of planning.

Key Points

• In-Depth Sightseeing: Visits to Split’s ancient palace, Roman ruins, and Trogir’s charming town square.
• Authentic Experience: Guided by knowledgeable local guides who share stories many visitors miss.
• Wine & Food: A delightful lunch at Sikuli Winery with stunning views of the Katela Riviera.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private, air-conditioned transport ensures a smooth day.
• Flexible & Private: Only your group participates, allowing for personalized attention.
• Cost & Value: While $226 is on the higher side, the combination of private transport, guided tours, and a wine tasting makes it worthwhile.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting the Day: Exploring Diocletian’s Palace and Split’s Historic Heart

Your journey begins at 10:00 am with pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle, a blessing on hot Croatian days. Your guide will be your personal storyteller, leading you through streets that are nearly 1,700 years old. The first stop is the iconic Peristyle of Diocletian’s Palace, a rectangular courtyard with towering columns where the ancient Roman emperor once strolled. This spot is surprisingly lively, often filled with street performers and travelers, but your guide will help you see its secrets, like the small details in the stonework.

Next, you’ll visit the statue of Gregory of Nin, a local hero with a rather amusing tradition—rubbing the toe for luck. The 8.5-meter statue is not just a photo op but a reminder of Split’s role as a center of Croatian identity. The tour emphasizes authentic local stories behind these monuments, which adds depth to what might otherwise be just another photo.

Exploring Hidden Corners: Cellars & the Temple of Jupiter

One of the highlights is a visit to the Cellars of Diocletian’s Palace, sometimes called the “basement halls,” which reveal the underbelly of ancient Roman engineering. This 2-hour stop offers a glimpse into the original structure and function of the palace’s subsurface areas. It’s a surprisingly atmospheric experience, especially as your guide points out how these spaces have been repurposed over time.

Just next to the Peristyle, you’ll find the Temple of Jupiter. Though much of the temple’s original grandeur is lost, it remains a fascinating piece of Roman architecture. The guide will explain its significance and how it fits into the broader context of Roman religion and urban planning.

Trogir: A Seaside Gem

After soaking in Split’s ancient charm, the tour proceeds to Trogir, a Venetian-style town on the Adriatic, with a main square that’s perfect for wandering. You’ll have about two hours to explore at your own pace. The town’s narrow streets and stone buildings are picture-perfect, and your guide will point out key sights—like the old town’s cathedral, with its impressive bell tower, and other hidden corners that many travelers miss.

The main square, also called John Paul II Square, is the social hub where locals and visitors mingle. Walking here feels like stepping into an open-air museum, with centuries of architecture making every corner a new discovery.

Lunch at Sikuli Winery: A Taste of Dalmatian Hospitality

The highlight for many is lunch at Sikuli Winery, a family-run operation that has been on the Croatian wine scene since 2019. The winery owns vineyards in Katel Novi and other parts of Dalmatia, growing around 13,000 square meters of vines.

During the two-hour visit, you’ll enjoy amazing views over the Katela Riviera while sampling wines from the family’s boutique production. Although the cost of the tour doesn’t include lunch, the experience of tasting local wines in a beautiful setting is well worth it. The winery’s intimate setting and welcoming family atmosphere make for a memorable conclusion to the day.

End of the Day: Ease and Comfort

After a relaxed lunch, your private vehicle will take you back to Split, where the tour concludes. This setup allows you to reflect on the day’s sights and experiences without the worry of navigating unfamiliar streets or public transport.

Our Take on the Value

While the price of $226.74 might seem steep, it covers private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a unique wine tasting experience—factors that add both comfort and depth to your day. You won’t have to worry about crowds or language barriers; instead, you get personalized insights into each location.

On top of that, the tour’s length and structure mean you’ll visit major highlights, but also discover lesser-known stories and hidden corners, especially in Split’s palace cellars and Trogir’s alleyways. For those seeking an authentic, well-organized day with plenty of opportunity for questions, this tour offers excellent value.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals most to history buffs, culture seekers, and wine enthusiasts. If you enjoy guided tours with a local touch and prefer avoiding the hassle of planning, it’s an ideal choice. It’s also perfect if you want a comfortable day that covers a lot without feeling rushed.

It’s less suitable for travelers on a strict budget or those who prefer more flexibility or independent exploration. Since lunch is not included in the price, food costs are additional, but that allows you to choose something that suits your taste and budget.

FAQ

• What is included in the tour?
  The tour covers private transportation, a private guide, and a wine tasting at Sikuli Winery. Lunch is not included but can be enjoyed at the winery.

• How long does the tour last?
  The entire experience lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, from pickup to drop-off.

• Is pickup offered?
  Yes, pickup is available, making it more convenient to start your day.

• Is this tour suitable for all ages?
  Most travelers can participate, but you might want to consider mobility restrictions for walking around the old towns and ruins.

• How far in advance should I book?
  On average, travelers book about 135 days ahead, indicating good planning is needed.

• What are the main sights in Split covered?
  The tour explores Diocletian’s Palace, the Peristyle, the Gregory of Nin statue, and the Roman cellars.

• Can I customize the itinerary?
  Since it’s a private tour, there’s some flexibility to ask your guide about specific interests.

• Is the wine tasting included in the price?
  No, but it’s available during your lunch at Sikuli Winery as part of the experience.

• What should I wear?
  Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothes are recommended.

• Where does the tour start?
  The meeting point is at 10:00 am, with pickup from your accommodation or designated location.

To sum it up, this tour offers a richly layered experience of Croatia’s coastal history, blended with authentic wine tasting in a peaceful setting. It’s ideal for travelers who want to explore with a knowledgeable guide, enjoy beautiful scenery, and indulge in some local wine. While it is a bit pricier than some other options, the personalized attention, seamless logistics, and depth of cultural insights make it a worthwhile investment for those eager to truly savor the Dalmatian coast.