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Croatia & Slovenia: The Old-World Adriatic

12 days  |  15 days with Ljubljana & Lake Bled extension  |  Loading prices

Group size
15–35 travelers
Reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars

292
Activity level

Step into a storybook world where the Adriatic sparkles, ancient walled cities reveal countless tales, and nature stuns at every turn.

In this corner of Europe, the past lingers in the sea air. Sense it in the mighty stone walls of Dubrovnik, the winding passageways of Diocletian’s Palace, and the crystalline world of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Then, cross into Slovenia, a country where alpine charm meets Mediterranean soul, to wander Ljubljana’s leafy riverside promenades. From medieval port towns to lush green highlands, and open-air markets to UNESCO-recognized wonders, this journey offers an enchanting blend of natural grandeur and old-world romance—made to be savored slowly and remembered forever. Join us on the extension to see why Slovenia’s Lake Bled is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets.

Your tour package includes

  • 10 nights in handpicked hotels
  • 10 breakfasts
  • 4 dinners with beer or wine
  • 9 sightseeing tours
  • Expert Tour Director & local guides
  • Private deluxe motor coach

Included highlights

  • Dubrovnik
  • Mostar’s Old Bridge
  • Diocletian’s Palace
  • Ivan Mestrovic Gallery
  • Trogir
  • Zadar
  • Plitvice Lakes National Park
  • Old Town Ljubljana

Itinerary

Overnight Flight

Day 1: Travel day

Board your overnight flight to Dubrovnik today.

Dubrovnik

Day 2: Arrival in Dubrovnik

Included meal: Welcome dinner

Welcome to Croatia! After touching down, make your way to your hotel. There, you’ll meet your Tour Director and groupmates at a welcome dinner, served with beer or wine.

Ljubljana & Lake Bled extension

Want to see mountains overlooking a castle, overlooking a glacial lake, all surrounded by an emerald forest? We don’t blame you! Extend your stay to explore Lake Bled, and more of northwestern Slovenia, with a local guide and find out why aristocrats (and in-the-know travelers) have been vacationing in this swoonworthy spot for centuries.

Ljubljana

Day 12: Free day in Ljubljana

Included meal: Breakfast

Enjoy a full free day in Ljubljana to catch up on rest, do a little shopping, or spend more time in the city’s plazas and squares. If you’re up for it, we recommend joining us on an optional seaside escape to Piran. You’ll stroll the sun-drenched streets of the coastal town, where Venetian facades, sea views, and the music of Tartini hangs in the air. Then, take a dip in the Adriatic or linger over lunch in the town’s charming square.

Lake Bled

Day 13: Lake Bled & Lake Bohinj

Included meal: Breakfast

Travel to Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj to discover why generations of Europeans have sought serenity and fresh air in this picture-perfect alpine region. Misty peaks rise above mirror-like lakes, medieval castles cling to cliffs, and charming villages dot the valleys below.

  • Circle the emerald waters of Lake Bled and climb to Bled Castle, perched dramatically above the lake—where sweeping views and a glimpse into Slovenian history await.
  • Wind through scenic mountain roads to Lake Bohinj, Bled’s quieter and wilder cousin, nestled within Triglav National Park.
  • Pause for lunch in the lakeside village of Ribcev Laz, where rustic inns and flower-filled balconies frame views of the water and the surrounding Julian Alps.

Day 14: Free day in the Lake Bled Region

Included meal: Breakfast

Our optional excursion today invites you into the Julian Alps. If you join us, you’ll travel through alpine landscapes to the ski town of Kranjska Gora, then wind through Triglav National Park via Slovenia’s highest mountain pass. Stop for a scenic walk along the emerald Soca River before arriving in Bovec, where you’ll explore WWI trenches and landmarks and enjoy free time for lunch.

If you’d like to stay behind in the Lake Bled region, ask your Tour Director for a recommendation of what to do, see, or eat on your full free day.

This evening, enjoy a farewell drink as you celebrate your trip with your fellow group members.

Flight Home

Day 15: Departure

Included meal: Breakfast (excluding early morning departures)

Transfer to the Ljubljana airport for your flight home.

Reviews

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Hotels

We handpick every hotel to strike the balance of comfort, location, and local charm. Specific accommodations will vary based on your departure date, but these are frequently used hotels for this tour and we're confident you'll be satisfied.

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Dubrovnik - Hotel Lapad

This tucked away hotel is located in Dubrovnik's Gruz Harbor. Guests enjoy the outdoor pool, garden, and on-site restaurant. Nearby you’ll find Uvala Lapad Beach, walking trails, and Velika and Mala Petka Forest Park.

Split Region - Atrium Hotel

This modern hotel is located in Split. Guests enjoy free WiFi, a fitness center, and indoor pool. Nearby, you’ll find the Archaeological Museum Split, the Croatian Maritime Museum, and Jaksic Gallery.

Plitvice - Hotel Jezero

This picturesque hotel is located in Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia. Guests enjoy a thermal spa, an indoor pool, and a fitness center. Nearby, you'll find the Upper Lakes, Veliki Slap, and Gradinsko Lake.

Zagreb - Zonar Zagreb

This stylish hotel is located in Zagreb. Guests enjoy a rooftop pool, an on-site restaurant, and a fitness center. Nearby, you'll find the Zagreb Cathedral, the Museum of Broken Relationships, and the Maksimir Park.

Ljubljana - Exe Lev

This contemporary hotel is located in the heart of Ljubljana. Guests enjoy views of the city, fitness center, and on-site coffee house. Nearby you'll find the National Museum of Contemporary History, Park Tivoli, and the...

Lake Bled - Rikli Balance Hotel

This tranquil hotel is located in Bled. Guests enjoy thermal pools, a wellness center, and a rooftop terrace. Nearby, you'll find Lake Bled, Bled Castle, and the Vintgar Gorge.

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Flights

Round-trip flights are one more thing we handle to make your journey as smooth as possible. Our team of travel experts will find the best flight itinerary for you at a competitive rate, thanks to our partnerships with top airlines.

Add our airfare and you’ll get:

  • Round-trip flight for your tour
  • Airport transfers at your destination
  • A great price locked in today
  • 24/7 support from our dedicated service team
  • Options for arriving early, staying longer, or requesting an upgrade
  • Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes

Find out more about flights

FAQ

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