Discover the Adriatic: Croatia & Slovenia with Venice

Overview

Itinerary at a Glance

• 1 Depart USA/Overnight Flight
• 2 Venice, Mestre, Italy
• 3 Venice, Italy & Bled, Slovenia
• 4 Bled & Bohinj, Slovenia
• 5 Klagenfurt and Lake Wörth, Austria & Bled, Slovenia
• 6 Postojna & Predjama Castle, Slovenia & Rovinj, Croatia
• 7 Rovinj, Croatia
• 8 Opatija, Lake Bajer & Plitvice Lakes, Croatia
• 9 Plitvice Lakes & Split, Croatia
• 10 Depart Split, Croatia/Arrive USA

Dubrovnik Extension

• 10 Split, Croatia
• 11 Split & Dubrovnik
• 12 Dubrovnik
• Optional Excursion: Mostar-Kravica Excursion, $80
• Optional Excursion: Montenegro Excursion, $80
• 13 Depart Dubrovnik

Dates & Prices

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 Depart USA/Overnight Flight

• Depart the USA on your overnight flight to Venice, Italy

Day 2 Venice, Mestre, Italy

• Arrive in Venice and transfer to your hotel in Mestre
• Spend the balance of the day at leisure

Anthony Hotel or similar

Full Day Itinerary

Upon arrival at Marco Polo International Airport Venice, and after clearing immigration and customs, meet our representative, and you will be transferred to Mestre.

Enjoy the balance of the day at leisure to rest or explore the area around your hotel.

Day 3 Venice, Italy & Bled, Slovenia

• Enjoy a guided walking tour of the floating city of Venice
• Continue to Bled, Slovenia

Hotel Kompas or similar Breakfast & dinner

Full Day Itinerary

After breakfast, meet your tour guide and fellow travelers for a morning walking tour of Venice. Travel like a local via vaporetto to St. Mark’s Square. With St. Mark’s Basilica on one end and the Doge’s Palace on the other, the square or piazza was the center of civic and religious life in Venice during the days of the Republic. See the breathtaking Romanesque-Byzantine facade of the basilica and St. Mark’s campanile, considered one of the square’s most recognizable landmarks. Next, view the Bridge of Sighs, an enclosed bridge constructed of white limestone with stone bars encasing its tiny windows. The bridge connects the New Prison to the interrogation rooms in Doge’s Palace. Legend has it that prisoners crossing the bridge to their fate would sigh as they caught their last glimpses of Venice, and thus, the bridge received its name. Then, make your way towards the Grand Canal and the famous Rialto Bridge. The Rialto Bridge is the oldest of the four bridges that span the Grand Canal. Consisting primarily of steps, the bridge has two walkways along the outer balustrades and a central walkway between two rows of small shops; it is one of the most photographed sights in Venice. Enjoy some time at leisure for an independent lunch.

Afterward, return to the mainland and depart for Bled, Slovenia. Check in to your hotel for dinner and overnight.

Day 4 Bled & Bohinj, Slovenia

• Enjoy a relaxing boat tour of Lake Bled
• Spend time at leisure to explore the island independently, or simply take in the beautiful scenery
• Visit Bled castle to admire the historic city, lake, and surrounding mountains
• Round out the day at picturesque Lake Bohinj

Hotel Kompas or similar Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary

Set off this morning to discover Bled, among some of the most beautiful alpine resorts. Begin with a relaxing pletna boat ride on the picturesque Lake Bled. This glacial lake was formed over a tectonic basin, giving the water thermal properties. Enjoy some free time to explore Bled Island and the Church of the Assumption. The church, with its Baroque stairway with 99 stone steps, the free-standing, 52-meter tall bell tower, and the lush greenery of the island add to the breathtaking beauty of this small, tear-shaped island.

Continue to Bled Castle, a medieval castle perched on a cliff above the city. From here, admire the striking views of the city, lake, and surrounding mountains. On a clear day, it is possible to see Slovenia’s highest mountain, Mount Triglav. The first castle was built in approximately 1011, towers were added in the late Middle Ages, and fortifications improved. After sustaining damage in an earthquake in 1511, the castle was restored to what you see today. In the upper courtyard, the 16th-century Gothic chapel underwent a Baroque renovation in the 1700s and was further repaired and embellished in the 1950s. This courtyard is also home to a museum highlighting the history of Bled. Today, the castle is an exhibition area, with rooms showcasing the ancient history of Bled.

Before returning to the hotel, stop to see the stunning Lake Bohinj, the largest natural lake in Slovenia, located within the Julian Alps glacial valley.

Day 5 Klagenfurt and Lake Wörth, Austria & Bled, Slovenia

• Cross the border to southern Austria
• Visit the charming university town of Klagenfurt
• Enjoy a panoramic tour of Carinthia and Lake Wörth

Hotel Kompas or similar Breakfast & lunch

Full Day Itinerary

Today, visit the neighboring country of Austria and enjoy breathtaking views of the Alps, impressive at any time of the year. Begin with the provincial capital, Klagenfurt, a charming university town. See the famous Lindwurm fountain and learn how legends of local dragons inspired its creation in the 16th century. Take in the sights and sounds of Neuer Platz Square, and then enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Nestled within the eastern mountains, the historic county of Carinthia is a sight to behold, even sometimes referred to as “Austria’s Riviera.” The panoramic tour will showcase the natural wonder of Lake Wörth. Gaze upon the crystal clear blue-green water, spanning over 20 kilometers long. Return to Bled early this evening.

Day 6 Postojna & Predjama Castle, Slovenia & Rovinj, Croatia

• Explore the breathtaking Postojna Caves
• Visit the world renowned Predjama Castle
• Cross the border to Croatia and the charming town of Rovinj

Hotel Eden Rovinj or similar Breakfast & dinner

Full Day Itinerary

After breakfast, head off to the majestic Postojna Caves. Carved by the Pivka River over millions of years, it officially became a tourist destination in 1819. It's also one of the largest underground cave systems in Europe. The visit begins at the entrance station of the cave railway. First, pass through an artificial tunnel built in 1964, continuing to the first natural tunnel, which is black and sooty due to a fuel dump explosion during World War II. Next, see the Gothic Hall, richly decorated with stalactites and stalagmites, then the Ballroom, which for 180 years has been a venue for various events. View nature's sculptures as the train progresses for two more kilometers to the Great Mountain. From here, continue on foot past the Great Mountain, also known as Calvary, across the Russian Bridge to the Beautiful Caves, through Spaghetti, White, and Red Halls, all the way to the Brilliant Passage, where the most famous stalagmite and symbol of Postojna Cave stands: the Brilliant. Follow the route into the Concert Hall, learn about the only underground post office worldwide, and then board the train to return to the surface. Lucky visitors may see the endemic olm, the largest troglodytic amphibian in the world! More commonly known as an aquatic salamander, these cave-dwelling critters symbolize Slovenian natural heritage.

 

Next, visit the fascinating Predjama Castle, built within the mouth of a nearby cave. This Renaissance-style castle had many famous inhabitants, none more notorious than Erazem Lueger, a knight and legendary robber baron. Learn his story and discover the unique attributes of the castle. Besides offering a gorgeous view, Predjama also highlights unmatched 13th -16th-century craftsmanship and a secret network of tunnels within the caves below.

Cross the border to Croatia and arrive at the enchanting coastal town of Rovinj on the Istrian Peninsula, the largest peninsula in Croatia. Late this afternoon, check in to your hotel. Enjoy an evening free to wander the streets of one of the last true Mediterranean fishing ports.

Day 7 Rovinj, Croatia

• Enjoy a walking tour through charming Rovinj
• Marvel at the Basilica of St. Euphemia
• Savor delicious Truffle tastings in Livade and Olive Oil tastings in Vodnjan
• Behold timeless Pula and its Roman amphitheater

Hotel Eden Rovinj or similar Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary

Today's adventure begins with touring the "Pearl of Istria," Rovinj. Stroll through a labyrinth of picturesque cobblestone streets and hills in Old Town and marvel at the tiny shops, exciting galleries, and compact architecture. A still active fishing port, Rovinj offers a glimpse of its traditional seafaring roots juxtaposed with a modern and, at times, festive atmosphere. On a hilltop in the middle of the town center, visit the immense Basilica of St. Euphemia and 200 ft. tall bell tower, offering spectacular views of the city and sea.

Continue to inner Istria, well known for their culinary contributions to the region. Here, enjoy a tasting of the rare and exotic truffle. An Istrian treasure, they grow wild and must be hunted by skilled truffle hunters, sometimes assisted by a dog (or even a pig!) to help them locate these delicate and delicious mushrooms.

Later, enjoy an olive oil tasting in Vodnjan from one of the most renowned local producers. Vodnjan's climate and location contribute to its fantastic flavor and color, making it one of the world's best olive oils. Some say you can taste the sunshine in every drop!

 

Finally, visit Pula, a 3000-year-old city on the southern tip of Croatia's Istrian Peninsula. The Pula Arena is the most impressive among the many ruins and historical sites. This Amphitheater is still used for concerts and movie sets, and its image appears on the 10 Kuna note. Learn about the history of one of the world's largest and best-preserved Roman arenas.

Return to Rovinj for an evening at leisure.

Day 8 Opatija, Lake Bajer & Plitvice Lakes, Croatia

• Spend a morning at leisure in Opatija
• Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant
• Embark on a scenic drive to Plitvice Lakes area

Hotel Palcich or similar Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Full Day Itinerary

Leaving the peninsula behind, drive through the beautiful countryside to the coastal town of Opatija. Spend some time at leisure enjoying this wonderful little town full of magnificent villas and old hotels, once a famous winter resort for the Austrian elite. You can choose to stroll along the Lungomare promenade, visit Angiolina Park, or enjoy a coffee at Wagner’s terrace. Then, board the coach again, passing through the Gorski Kotal Region, and arrive at the tiny shore village of Fuzine.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and savor the traditional, homemade food of the region. Continue through the lush green scenery to Plitvice Lakes.

Later this evening, join your fellow travelers for dinner.

Day 9 Plitvice Lakes & Split, Croatia

• Hike through Plitvice Lakes National Park
• Take a boat ride across the emerald green Kozjak Lake
• Walk through the old town of Split, and visit Diocletian’s palace

Hotel Cornaro or similar Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary

After breakfast, depart for Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at the fascinating labyrinth of evergreen woods and the 16 lakes, each connected by a waterfall. Enjoy a hike through the park, taking in the beauty of several lakes. The last, lowest, and most significant of them all is the emerald-green Kozjak Lake. Here, board a boat to travel across and have time to relax and appreciate the magnificent view.

This evening, arrive in Split, the second-largest city in Croatia and the largest on the Adriatic coast. Enjoy a short walk through this UNESCO World Heritage site. The town has been built and rebuilt for seventeen centuries, and today, you may find an 18th-century building intersecting with ancient Roman walls. Explore the 4th-century palace built by the Roman emperor Diocletian to spend his golden years. Continue walking to view the Grgur Ninski statue and the Cathedral and Bell Tower of St. Domnius.

Day 10 Depart Split, Croatia/Arrive USA

• Transfer to the airport to board your return flight to the USA

Breakfast

Dubrovnik Extension

Day 10 Split, Croatia

• Enhance the day at leisure to uncover the city's charm with an extra night's stay in Split

Hotel Cornaro or similar

Full Day Itinerary

Enhance your Split experience with an extra night's stay in this lively city. Enjoy your day at leisure to explore and uncover the city's charm and beautiful surrounding areas. Unwind along the scenic promenade, or for more adventure, embark on a Marjan hill hike. Shop for unique gifts at local boutiques, savor traditional cuisine and indulge in wine bars for an immersive exploration.

Day 11 Split & Dubrovnik

• Early this morning, transfer to the ferry from Split to Dubrovnik
• Upon arrival, check in at the hotel.
• Embark on a walking tour of Dubrovnik
• Enjoy the balance of the day at leisure

Hotel Lero or similar Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary

Your journey continues with an early transfer to the fast ferry from Split to medieval Dubrovnik. After checking in at your hotel, head to the old town for a fascinating guided walking tour to explore the city's highlights. Completed in the 13th century, Dubrovnik's old city has remained unchanged. See the Franciscan Monastery, Clock Tower, St. Laurence Fortress, Sponza's Palace, and Rector's Palace. Afterward, enjoy free time exploring at your leisure and return to the hotel when you prefer.

Day 12 Dubrovnik

• Enjoy a free day in Dubrovnik or join an optional excursion

Hotel Lero or similar Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary

Enjoy a free day in Dubrovnik to explore more of its wonders. The adventures in this city are endless: sea kayak around the walls, take a cable car ride for panoramic views, visit Lokrum island, or immerse yourself in the world of Game of Thrones with an exciting themed tour. Alternatively, join an excursion to nearby Montenegro or the historic City of Mostar in Bosnia. 

Optional Excursion: Mostar-Kravica Excursion, $80

Step into history with a captivating walking tour of Mostar's Old City. Wander through ancient cobbled streets brimming with medieval architecture and absorb the cultural charm of Bosnia. Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the famous Stari Most bridge, a symbol of resilience and architectural brilliance. Then, visit the natural wonders of the Herzegovina region to see the Kravica Waterfall, where cascading waters plunge into turquoise pools.   

Optional Excursion: Montenegro Excursion, $80

Embark on an unforgettable walking tour through the coastal city of Kotor, surrounding yourself with the city's majestic and awe-inspiring beauty, including the Bay of Kotor. Explore the narrow cobblestone streets lined with centuries-old architecture, Orthodox churches, and alfresco cafés, and admire the string of the Gulf of Kotor cutting deep into towering mountains, creating the most dramatic setting. Be sure to marvel at the majestic St. Tryphon's Cathedral, a symbol of Kotor's rich history and architectural prowess.

Day 13 Depart Dubrovnik

• After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight back home

Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary

Say goodbye to Dubrovnik as you transfer to the airport for your flight back home. 

Hotels

Anthony Hotel

First Class

The Anthony Hotel Venice Airport is located on a main road in Campalto. With just a few stops from the city center near plenty of restaurants, stores, the train station, and Marco Polo international airport. The hotel overlooks the beautiful Venetian Lagoon, a bay of the Adriatic Sea.

More information

Hotel Eden Rovinj

First Class

Nestled in the shade of hundred year old pines, the Hotel Eden offers lavish and elegant rooms overlooking the bay and beach.Relax in the completely renovated Wellness & Spa center at the Hotel Eden. Indulge in a spa treatment, or perhaps take a dip in the indoor heated pool, outdoor pool or Jacuzzi whirlpool. A thermal zone with Finnish sauna, Turkish bath, and infrared sauna are also at your disposal. The air-conditioned fitness facility is well equipped and ready to keep guests in perfect shape. Sporting types can rent e-bikes, enjoy the bowling alley, or play tennis on one of the 8 outdoor clay courts.

More information

Hotel Palcich

First Class

Hotel Palcich is located just 3.5 miles from the entrance to Plitvice Lakes, the oldest and largest national park in Croatia. 

More information

Hotel Cornaro

First Class

The Hotel Cornaro offers an excellent city central location, with ancient historical surroundings. Combining elegant décor with comfort, the Hotel Cornaro demonstrates the utmost in dedication to guests. Just minutes from the hotel are popular attractions like Gregory of Nin, Bacivice Beach, and Marjan Hill. The Hotel Cornaro is dedicated to enhancing wellness, and offers intensive and purifying facial and body treatments. Treat yourself to a massage, Finnish sauna, or relax in the Jacuzzi.

More information

Hotel Lero

First Class

Hotel Lero was built in 1972 and is part of the fabric of Dubrovnik, the city known as “The Pearl of the Adriatic.” The hotel sits just outside the UNESCO-protected Old City of Dubrovnik, only a 5-minute walk from the famous pebble Miramare Beach and several untamed rocky beaches with concrete plateaus.

More information

In the unlikely event that a particular hotel is not available, a similar or better hotel may be substituted.

Reviews & Photos

Trip Details

• What should I know before I go? We've compiled a comprehensive checklist, including information on how to pay your balance due, flights & transfers, packing & luggage, and more.
• Do I need a visa or other documents? Are there any entry requirements? Please review the visa & entry requirements.
• Can I make changes to my trip? Want to upgrade your seats? Depart from another city? Stay a few extra days? Something else? Just ask!
• Can I bring my kids? Are there any age restrictions? To book this package, you must be 18 or older. Your traveling companions must be 8 or older at time of travel.
• Should I purchase travel insurance? Yes! We recommend you purchase travel insurance to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. For your convenience, we offer a plan provided by Travelex Insurance Services.
• What's the fine print? Review the terms & conditions for this package.
• What should I know about Austria? Check out our guide for practical travel tips, the best time to go, videos, and more.
• What should I know about Croatia? Check out our guide for practical travel tips, the best time to go, videos, and more.
• What should I know about Italy? Check out our guide for practical travel tips, the best time to go, videos, and more.
• What should I know about Slovenia? Check out our guide for practical travel tips, the best time to go, videos, and more.

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