Embark on a transformative spiritual journey from Međugorje to the stunning Dalmatian coastline of Croatia, where you will spend five nights in a centuries-old monastery on the serene island of Badija. Father Ronaldo Mercado will lead the retreat and celebrate daily Mass during our stay on the island of Badija. This pilgrimage is a total immersion experience — unrepeatable and unforgettable, informative and transformative.

Our journey begins with three nights in Međugorje. Upon landing in Split, a private coach will transfer you directly to our accommodations in Međugorje, with two private group transfers from Split Airport to our hotel to minimize wait times at the airport.

Međugorje, a peaceful village in Bosnia-Herzegovina, has drawn millions of pilgrims since the Blessed Virgin Mary began appearing there on June 25, 1981. Our days in Medjugorje will be filled with profound spiritual encounters in what is often referred to as the "confessional of the world."

After our time in Međugorje, we will spend an afternoon in Dubrovnik, known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic." This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts well-preserved medieval architecture, including 27 churches within its ancient walls. After lunch and a visit to venerate the relics of St. Blaise, we will embark on a sea journey to Korčula Island and then a water taxi ride to our final destination, the serene Island of Badija.

During our five nights on Badija, a small island near Korčula, Croatia, pilgrims will be enchanted by its lush Mediterranean landscape, including pine and olive trees overlooking the Adriatic Sea. At the heart of Badija lies a 15th-century Franciscan monastery, offering a spiritual haven amidst pebble beaches, secluded coves, and winding paths ideal for contemplation and exploration. Wildlife thrives here, enhancing the island's natural allure, while panoramic vistas inspire a profound sense of peace and connection with nature, making Badija a perfect retreat for both relaxation and spiritual reflection. After sunset, the island is peacefully inhabited solely by those staying in the monastery.

Father Ronaldo Mercado, pastor of St. Joseph Catholic Parish, Arlington, TX, will lead a spiritual retreat on Badija, offering confession, daily Mass, Adoration, and talks. Fr. Ronaldo Mercado is a priest filled with joy, humor, and a profound love for Christ. His warmth and approachable spirit invite pilgrims into a deeper encounter with the mercy and hope of God. With years of pastoral experience and a heart formed by both science and faith, Fr. Mercado brings wisdom, compassion, and contagious joy to every encounter. He will lead us in retreat on the island of Badija and journey with us in Medjugorje — guiding us to rediscover hope in the heart of Christ. Pilgrims will have time for personal prayer and reflection, both within the monastery and while exploring the island independently. In the afternoons, pilgrims can unwind with a swim in the crystalline waters of the sea or enjoy refreshments at a seaside café, fostering moments of contemplation and relaxation.

After morning Mass on our sixth day on Badija,  we embark on our pilgrim path to Split, offering a scenic journey across the Adriatic Sea with views of the Dalmatian coast and islands. Split, Croatia's second-largest city, is renowned for its blend of ancient Roman history and vibrant Mediterranean culture. At its heart lies Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site housing the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, one of the world's oldest churches originally built as Diocletian's mausoleum. We will spend the afternoon exploring this historic city, followed by a farewell dinner filled with reflections on our pilgrimage journey together.

Pilgrims depart with renewed faith, ready to share their experiences with their families, friends, and fellow parishioners. The journey from Međugorje to Badija Island offers a unique blend of tranquility and spiritual renewal, providing a "Heaven on Earth" pilgrim path for this exceptional pilgrimage experience.

Highlights of our Croatia August 2025 Pilgrimage:

• Carefully planned itinerary to provide you with a better appreciation of Our Lady’s apparition and message
• Knowledgable, Catholic guides in Medjugorje
• Time to explore in the walled ancient city of Dubrovnik
• Private island retreat 
• A meal and time to explore in historic Split
• Daily Mass 
• Unique cultural experiences
• Priest led talks
• All breakfasts and dinners, and most lunches, included
• Plus many unexpected stops and grace-filled encounters along the way

This pilgrimage is offered as a Land Only Package. Participants are responsible for arranging and covering the cost of their own air travel for the Croatia: Pilgrimage to Medjugorje and Retreat with Fr. Mercado.  

Arrival Information:

• Airport: Split, Croatia Resnik Airport (SPU)
• Date: Wednesday, August 20, 2025 (Day 1 of the pilgrimage)
• Flight Arrival Time: Before 4:00 PM (Local Time)
• Transfer: Group transfer from the airport to Medjugorje at 1:00pm and 5:00pm

If you choose to arrive early, please contact our office for assistance with booking the recommended early arrival hotel. On Day 1, the group transfer will pick up participants from this hotel along with the first group pick-up at the airport.  Please note that if you arrive one day early, the cost of the hotel and the transfer from the airport will be the financial responsibility of the participant. If you require assistance with this transfer, let us know, and we will be happy to help coordinate. 

Departure Information: 

• Airport: Split, Croatia Resnik Airport (SPU)
• Date: Friday, August 29, 2025 (Day 10 of the pilgrimage)
• Flight Departure Time: Before 1:00 PM (Local Time)
• Transfer:  Group transfer from the hotel in Split to the airport 

Recommended Travel Agency:  For booking flights, we recommend using an experienced travel agency. They will handle your airline reservations and forward the details to our office, ensuring a seamless process. You will receive the contact information for Inside the Vatican Pilgrimages' recommended seasoned travel agent in your Welcome Letter, which is sent immediately after you register for the pilgrimage.

If you would like to get an idea of the cost and availability of flights, we suggest checking Google Flights as a helpful and simple tool for initial research.

With more than 30 years of publishing Inside the Vatican magazine, we have colleagues and friends all over the world — and many of them have become part of our Pilgrimage family. 

Designing an Inside the Vatican pilgrimage begins with a theme or a particular country; then we weave in encounters with real people who live and work there, as well as those with expert knowledge in its historical and spiritual perspectives. Each day we will have the opportunity to attend Mass.

Our itineraries include both world-renowned and little-known places, and every detail has been arranged to create a truly unique experience; we do not have cookie-cutter pilgrimages.  And our pilgrims appreciate the fact that we never exceed 33 pilgrims.  For our custom pilgrimages, we may exceed 33 pilgrims only at the client's request. 

Crafting an Inside the Vatican Pilgrimage is about knowing firsthand what makes a place extraordinary, knowing personally the people involved, understanding how best to experience it and then finessing the countless details, moments and encounters both planned and spontaneous. Our thoughtful trip design, flexible pace and local connections are just a few of the reasons why our pilgrims often return to join us again for other pilgrimages.

Contact Information:

Phone: +1.202.536.4555  Monday-Friday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm ET.

Email: Pilgrimages@InsideTheVatican.com. 

WhatsApp: +1.540.631.4392

Before you book your trip with us, please read carefully our Terms and Conditions.

Use EARLY when you register on or before Friday, February 21, 2025 to receive a $150.00 discount. Contact us to inquire about any applicable discounts.

Upon arrival in Split, you will board a private transfer to our hotel in Medjugorje. To ensure minimal waiting time, there will be two private transfers to Medjugorje.

Dinner included.

After a delightful breakfast at our hotel, you'll have the opportunity to attend English Mass at St. James Church, followed by a guided tour of the St. James area, including the Risen Christ statue and the Chapel of St. Sharbel.

In the afternoon, you will have the opportunity to go up Apparition Hill, the site of Our Lady’s first appearance, where we will pray the rosary together. Those who prefer not to climb may remain at the Blue Cross, a site where Mary appeared many times.

Later, you will have the chance to join the local community and fellow pilgrims in the daily evening prayer program at St. James, which includes confession and the rosary.

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

The morning will start with breakfast then English Mass at St. James and free time. 

After lunch, we will depart for Cross Mountain., Mount Krizevac.

The Cross on Mt. Krizevac overlooks the village of Medjugorje.  It was revealed to be a part of God’s plan for Medjugorje and for the world.  Our Lady said on November 3, 1981, that She prays there often.

“I am often at Krizevac, at the foot of the cross, to pray there.”

Krizevac” means “Mount of the Cross.” It is the highest mountain in the area. In 1933, the parish of St. James erected a large concrete cross to commemorate the 1900th Anniversary of Jesus’ passion and death on the Cross. During construction of the 16 ton cross, the parishioners carried up all of the materials, cement, sand, water, tools, etc., in memory of Christ’s way of the Cross. 

Later in the afternoon, we will return to town, where you can take part in the evening prayer program at St. James, which includes confession, the rosary, and adoration. Afterward, enjoy another wonderful dinner at our hotel.

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

After breakfast, our pilgrimage continues along the Dalmatian Coast towards Dubrovnik. We will explore the ancient town, followed by free time to stroll the beautiful marble streets and enjoy lunch.

Dubrovnik, known as the 'Pearl of the Adriatic', is situated on the Dalmatian coast and became an important Mediterranean sea power from the 13th century onwards. Although severely damaged by an earthquake in 1667, Dubrovnik managed to preserve its beautiful Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque churches, monasteries, palaces and fountains. 

In the afternoon, we will board a high speed catamaran to the Island of Korčula, where we will transfer to a private taxi to reach our final destination, the Island of Badija.

The Island of Badija, located in the Adriatic Sea off the coast of Croatia, is a serene and picturesque destination known for its lush pine forests, charming pebble beaches, and the historic 15th-century Franciscan monastery at its heart - your home for 5 nights.  The monastery is a perfect place for a retreat.  Badija's clear turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, while its walking trails offer leisurely strolls amidst nature. The island is also home to friendly deer, adding to its unique charm. At night, the only inhabitants are those staying at the monastery, enhancing the island's tranquil and secluded atmosphere, making it an ideal retreat for pilgrims.

Our meals will be sourced from the monastery's garden, featuring fresh, locally grown produce. Additionally, local meats and cheeses will be served, complemented by local wine at all meals.

Breakfast and dinner are included.

Our days on the Island of Badija will be filled with Mass, Adoration, prayer time, and retreat talks led by Father Ronaldo Mercado, a priest filled with joy, humor, and a profound love for Christ. His warmth and approachable spirit invite pilgrims into a deeper encounter with the mercy and hope of God. With years of pastoral experience and a heart formed by both science and faith, Fr. Mercado brings wisdom, compassion, and contagious joy to every encounter. He will lead us in retreat on the island of Badija — guiding us to rediscover hope in the heart of Christ.  There will also be opportunities for swimming, leisurely walks around the Island of Badija (a three-mile easy walk), visit to the nearby island of Korčula, and time for personal prayer and reflection.

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

Another day in paradise...

Our days on the Island of Badija will be filled with Mass, Adoration, prayer time, and retreat talks led by Father Ronaldo Mercado. There will also be opportunities for swimming, leisurely walks around the Island of Badija (a three-mile easy walk), visit to the nearby island of Korčula, and time for personal prayer and reflection.

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

Another day in paradise...

Our days on the Island of Badija will be filled with Mass, Adoration, prayer time, and retreat talks led by Father Ronaldo Mercado. There will also be opportunities for swimming, leisurely walks around the Island of Badija (a three-mile easy walk), visit to the nearby island of Korčula, and time for personal prayer and reflection.

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

Another day in paradise...

Our days on the Island of Badija will be filled with Mass, Adoration, prayer time, and retreat talks led by Father Ronaldo Mercado. There will also be opportunities for swimming, leisurely walks around the Island of Badija (a three-mile easy walk), visit to the nearby island of Korčula, and time for personal prayer and reflection.

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

Ahoy! After an early Mass and breakfast, we continue our pilgrimage via high speed catamaran to the mainland and visit the beautiful coastal city of Split. We will spend the afternoon enjoying lunch and exploring the old city, before checking into our hotel in Split. Our final dinner will be an opportunity to reflect on and share the many gifts we have received during our time together on pilgrimage.

Breakfast and Dinner included

After breakfast, morning transfers will take you to the airport for your departure home. Arrivederci, fellow pilgrims—until we meet again!

Breakfast Included