Taking you through some of the best places in Croatia and Slovenia, you can say hello to culture, beaches, art, and genuine central-European hospitality. Go truffle hunting with a local in Ljubljana,  experience the beauty of "Croatia's Tuscany" in Rovinj, and see the world's smallest town Hum, with only 17 inhabitants. Travel back in time to different historical periods, visit impressive UNESCO-Heritage sites, and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the waterfalls in Plitvice Lakes National Park. You will visit the charming capitals Ljubljana and Zagreb, and enjoy city views from mountain tops.

Highlights

  • Go on a walking tour of the UNESCO-listed Old Town in Dubrovnik
  • Enjoy a private sailing tour on the Adriatic sea
  • Walk through the UNESCO-listed 1,700-year-old Diocletian’s Palace
  • Visit the Krka National Park to see the stunning lakes and waterfalls
  • Go truffle hunting near Lake Butoniga in Istria and enjoy dinner at a local's house

Brief Itinerary

Day Highlights Overnight
Day 1 Arrival in Dubrovnik Dubrovnik
Day 2 Discover Dubrovnik by Land and Sea Dubrovnik
Day 3 Full Day in Dubrovnik - Hike up the Srd mountain Dubrovnik
Day 4 Explore Diocletian's Palace with an Expert Guide Split
Day 5 Traveling to Zadar by Private Car Zadar
Day 6 Explore Zadar with a Local Guide Zadar
Day 7 Traveling to Rovinj by Private Transfer & Plitvice Lakes National Park Rovinj
Day 8 Get to Know Rovinj - St. Euphemia Church - Balbi’s Arch Rovinj
Day 9 Your Second Full Day in Rovinj - Visit the world's smallest town Hum Rovinj
Day10 Adventure Truffle Hunting Group Tour Rovinj
Day 11 Travel to Ljubljana by Private Transfer Ljubljana
Day 12 Private City Walking Tour Ljubljana Ljubljana
Day 13 Your Second Full Day in Ljubljana - Visit the Skocjan Caves Ljubljana
Day 14 Arrival in Kobarid Kobarid
Day 15 Traveling to Zagreb Zagreb
Day 16 Full Exploration Day in Zagreb - Museum of Broken Relationships Zagreb
Day 17 Depart Zagreb Zagreb

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik's Old Town
Dubrovnik's Old Town

Upon your arrival in Dubrovnik, you’ll make your way to your accommodation to settle into the city and rest up for a full day of sightseeing ahead. it is also the perfect day to take an evening walk, enjoy a meal, or sip on a glass of delicious wine in a famous wine bar. If you arrive in the early afternoon, you can watch the sunset over the incredible landscapes of the Adriatic Dalmatia, while enjoying your favorite drink. 

A piece of history, Dubrovnik is one of the most ancient fortress cities in Europe. And while there's evidence of settlements as far back as the Byzantine era, this area only came into its own as an important power since the 13th century due in part to its strategic coastal position. Dubrovnik's long and storied history is told in its beautiful Gothic, Renaissance, and baroque churches, monasteries, palaces, and fountains all found within its imposing fortress walls. 

Day 2: Discover Dubrovnik by Land and Sea

Dubrovnik
Overlooking "Old Town" Dubrovnik from the coastal hills

Today you’ll be exploring the elegant avenues and atmospheric medieval squares of Dubrovnik. A walking tour of the UNESCO-listed Old Town will guide you through its most famous sights: The Franciscan Monastery, Onofrio’s Fountains, Sponza Palace, Orlando’s Column, the City Bell Tower, the Church of St. Blaise, and Rector’s Palace

After lunch, you’ll set sail on the Adriatic and see the city from a different vantage point with a private sailing tour. You’ll discover the area’s many picturesque natural bays and islands, with the option to snorkel and swim in the turquoise waters before sailing back to Dubrovnik to disembark for the night.

Day 3: Full Day in Dubrovnik - Hike up the Srd mountain

Banje beach and Lokrum Island in Dubrovnik
Banje beach and Lokrum Island in Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik was established in the 7th century and is known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic". With its tumultuous history, breathtaking architecture, and seaside landscape, this beautiful city attracts every type of travelers from all over the world.

Today you'll be free to explore Dubrovnik and its surroundings as you wish. Yesterday, you already visited some of the most famous spots, but the city has a lot more to offer. You can explore nearby places by boat, relax on one of the many beaches, or enjoy a beautiful mountain view. 

Suggested activities include: 

  • Hike up the Srd mountain and get a bird's eye view of the city. Visit the Homeland War Museum at the top and have lunch, or dinner, at the Panorama Restaurant, while enjoying a stunning view and sipping on your favorite drink. 
  • Relax at the less known Banje Beach where you can enjoy a swim in the clear blue waters and finish off by having dinner by the sea. 
  • Visit the mysterious Lokrum Island, an island famous for its beaches, exotic animals, and beautiful gardens. Go on a tour and learn about the island's unique history. It is said that anyone who spends the night here will be cursed.
  • Take a tour in the Pelješac peninsula—home to some of Croatia’s best wines, seafood, and beaches.

Day 4: Explore Diocletian's Palace with an Expert Guide

Evening view of the town Split, Croatia
Evening view of the town Split, Croatia

Today you will explore the inspiring city of Split with your local guide, and get to know the incredible history of this ancient European city. You will be picked up at your accommodation and walked through the UNESCO-listed 1,700-year-old Diocletian’s Palace.

You will explore the ancient cellars as well as the square in the center of the palace. Next is a visit to the Cathedral of Saint Dujeon—one of the most beautiful cultural wonders on the Adriatic coast. Then, the stunning Roman temples will awaken the spirit of another time for you, as will the prominent Golden Gate and the statue of Grgur Ninski.

Day 5: Traveling to Zadar by Private Car

Panoramic landscape of Krka Waterfalls in Krka National Park
Panoramic landscape of Krka Waterfalls in Krka National Park

There will be a private driver to pick you up from your accommodation in Split to depart for Zadar, after deciding on today's travel itinerary with your guide. It's good to get an early start to take advantage of at least one of the great things to do along the way. You may want to visit the island of Trogir, which is a UNESCO-listed Old Town.

Nature lovers will want to stop at the Krka National Park to see the stunning lakes and waterfalls, followed by lunch at Skradin on a picturesque inland bay. If you like wine, a special tasting can be arranged at the renowned Bibich winery in the hills above Skradin, which has become famous since Anthony Bourdain visited the place.

In Sibenik, you can visit the impressive UNESCO-listed Cathedral of St. James and then enjoy lunch at the excellent Pelegrini wine tavern next door. Tell your local representative where you'd like to go before your journey to make the necessary arrangements.

Day 6: Explore Zadar with a Local Guide

View of Sea Organ in Zadar, Croatia
View of Sea Organ in Zadar, Croatia

The beautiful city of Zadar awaits, which is one of the gems of the Adriatic coast. Your guide will pick you up at your accommodation and take you on tour through the center, telling you stories from the city’s vibrant history. The past will become alive as you explore some of Zadar’s most famous monuments, including the Cathedral of Saint Anastasia, which dates back to the 4th century.

The Sea Organ is an incredible set of marble stairs that go into the water as the waves lap against the stairs. The water is funneled into tubes that play different notes. Another gorgeous destination you’ll see is the installation known as "The Greeting to the Sun."

Created from photo-voltaic panels that collect solar energy during the day and glow at night, it’s a perfect scene of nature's beauty and an excellent place for photographs. At the end of the tour, your guide will drop you off at your accommodation or suggest other sites for further exploration.

Day 7: Traveling to Rovinj by Private Transfer & Plitvice Lakes National Park

Waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia
Waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia

Your next destination is "Croatia's Tuscany" and the lovely town of Rovinj. You'll have a private van picking you up from your accommodation in the morning and along the way, you'll get the chance to see one of Croatia's signature sights—the Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Day 8: Get to Know Rovinj - St. Euphemia Church, Balbi’s Arch

Sea view of Church of St. Euphemia in Rovinj, Croatia
Sea view of Church of St. Euphemia in Rovinj, Croatia

Today you’ll experience the lay of the land in Rovinj on a 1.5-hour private walking tour. This tour will be led by your local guide, who knows the ins and outs of the place. Main attractions include the St. Euphemia Church, Balbi’s Arch, and the town clock.

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The St. Euphemia Church is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture, dominating Rovinj’s Old Town, as it stands on top of a hill. Inside you’ll witness the preserved body of St. Euphemia from the 6th century. On this orientational tour, you'll be introduced to the rich history of Rovinj and Istria, as well as Italy’s influence on the region.

Day 9: Your Second Full Day in Rovinj - Visit the world's smallest town Hum

Streets of Hum in Croatia
Streets of Hum in Croatia

On this day, you'll be free to experience the romantic and historic Rovinj any way you like. You can explore the city entirely on your own or book one or several tours. You will find twisting city streets, a vibrant, photogenic harbor, and some of the best seafood restaurants in Croatia.

To have a unique experience, you can visit the town of Hum—the world's smallest town. However, do not be fooled by its size, as this place is truly charming with its color and ancient stone streets. In the summer, you can enjoy a cooling drink at the Mediterraneo Bar, right on the water's edge, and then go for a swim right on the spot. 

At the farmer's market, you'll find authentic souvenirs and fresh food, while there will be more than enough time to also take a boat tour to Crveni Otok (Red Lake), only 15 minutes from Rovinj. If you enjoy art, then strolling down the streets of Grožnjan is a must. In one hour by car, you'll arrive in this artist's village for perfect cultural relaxation. 

Day 10: Adventure Truffle Hunting Tour

Scenic view at marble landscape in central Istria
Scenic view at marble landscape in central Istria
This day brings warmth and authenticity, and if you love truffles, you will be pleasantly surprised. Near Lake Butoniga in central Istria, you'll experience a landscape rich with truffles. Upon arrival, your host will greet you with a welcome drink and tasty truffle treats.
 
With your host and his dog, you will walk to locations where truffles grow in nature, and with a little persistence and luck, you will find some of these precious delicacies. Later you will go back to your host's house, where you will get a traditional dish with just-picked fresh truffles and a glass of wine in an authentic Istrian ambiance.

Day 11: Travel to Ljubljana by Private Transfer

  Save Download Preview Aerial panoramatic view of Piran city,
 Aerial panoramic view of Piran city,

Today you will leave the lovely Rovinj and head to the capital of Ljubljana in Slovenia. To break up the journey and make the most of your time at the Slovenian seaside, you will stop in Piran, where you can enjoy a nice lunch and look around. Once in Piran, you can arrange for another tour for an extra fee. You'll have a lot to choose from, including a walking tour, a food tour, a biking tour, a wine, and food tour, or something similar.

Day 12: Private City Walking Tour Ljubljana

View of Old Town and the medieval castle in Ljubljana
View of Old Town and the medieval castle in Ljubljana

Today, you'll explore medieval Ljubljana, from its culture and unique sites to its interesting stories and legends. You’ll discover its baroque and Secession architecture with your local guide, along with the works of the architect Joze Plecnik. Then it's off to a walk across the bridges and through the open market, entering the impressive cathedral.

Your guide will take you through Old Town, and along the banks of the river Ljubljanica. You'll learn all about the legend of the city's origin and visit the main attractions. By the end of the tour, you'll understand how Ljubljana, "The Loved One," got its name. After the tour ends, you're in for an extraordinary time with Slovenian hospitality with charm, food, drink, and culture!
 
You'll enjoy a traditional Slovenian evening with a welcome drink from dried fruits, a three-course dinner, wine, and a show. It is a beautiful way to get to know the life of locals more intimately. The two-hour event takes place at a restaurant near your accommodation, which makes it very convenient.

Day 13: Full Day in Ljubljana - Visit the Skocjan Caves

Ljubljana Castle
View of Ljubljana Castle

The capital Ljubljana is the largest city in Slovenia. But even so, it feels wonderfully small, without a long "to-do list." Strolling down the charming streets,  you will see dragons at every turn—on bridges, at the Ljubljana Castle, in graffiti paintings, and buildings. It is a symbol of the city, after all. 

Legend has it that Ljubljana was founded by the Greek mythological hero Jason—leader of the Argonauts. While traveling towards home with the Golden Fleece, he encountered a dragon in the marshy swamps of what is now Ljubljana. 

Today, you'll experience Ljubljana anyway you wish, waking up to a full day of exciting activities, or relaxing the day away around the city. 

Suggested activities include:

  • Take a trip to Postojna Caves—a natural wonder 33 miles (53 km) from Ljubljana. The caves boast towering mountains, murmuring rivers and vast subterranean halls. This natural wonder was formed approximately three million years ago, with the formation starting in 70-million-year-old limestones.
  • Take a walk to Neboticnik for an aerial view over Ljubljana, a skyscraper with a rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the city. Enjoy a pleasant and relaxing lunch or dinner at the restaurant before continuing.
  • Visit the Skocjan Caves—a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest canyons located underground in the world. 

Day 14: Arrival in Kobarid

River Soca in Kobarid, Slovenia
River Soca in Kobarid, Slovenia

Today, you will be transferred by your driver straight to your accommodation in Kobarid. The evening will treat you to a delicious dinner right in the middle of the Julian Alps.

You'll enjoy a good night's sleep before heading to the capital of Croatia—Zagreb.

Day 15: Traveling to Zagreb

Aerial view of Zagreb historic city center
Aerial view of Zagreb historic city center

Today you will depart Kobarid and travel to Zagreb. The journey will take approximately 3.5 hours before you arrive in this Slovenian capital. The city is small but charming, with just the right amount of sights and you'll have and enough time to enjoy them all. 

Compared to Dubrovnik and Split, the city may not be on everyone's bucket list, but once you visit, you will be happy you did. With its rich culture, food, history, and art, it won't take long before Zagreb pulls you close to an intimate dance. 

Today, you can enjoy walking around the old town and visit the main plaza of Zagreb —the Ban Jelacic Central Square. The architecture around the square mixes several periods of Croatia’s history including the Austro-Hungarian and Soviet-era building styles.

Day 16: Full Exploration Day in Zagreb - Museum of Broken Relationships

 International garden exhibition in tunnel Gric in Zagreb
International garden exhibition in tunnel Gric in Zagreb

Goodmorning Zagreb! Today, you'll enjoy whichever activities you'd like, whether it's with a tour guide or by yourself.  You have the entire day to taste local food, enjoy cultural sights, and walk down the historic streets in Zagreb's Old Town

Zagreb is the perfect place to end this 17-day trip and offers smaller crowds and more intimate opportunities. 

Suggested activities include:

  • A visit to the Mirogoj Cemetery—a stunning open-air park with neo-renaissance arches, beautiful tree-lined walkways, and ivy-covered colonnades and. You can arrange for a transfer to reach this beautiful place, located 15 minutes away from the city.
  • Relax and walk around in Zrinjevac Park, a park creating a horseshoe shape through the center of downtown.  A full walk around this 19th-century park, also called Lenuci Horsehoe, takes approximately 30 minutes, where you will find with a beautiful collection of squares and parks peppered with historical statues and museums.
  • Go museum-hopping and visit the Museum of Broken Relationships—a museum with over 4,000 objects shipped from around the globe, including a “stupid Frisbee,” a Galileo thermometer, and “27-year-old crust from a wound of my first love.” There are three million exhibits in Zagreb annually, which means there is a museum for every traveler and every taste.  Visit the Technical Museum of Nikola Tesla, or have some fun in the Museum of Illusions. 
  • Enjoy food and shopping at the local Dolac Market, a lively and colorful farmer’s market that is perfect for sampling local Croatian ingredients and cuisine. It is just a few steps from the Zagreb Cathedral—the tallest building in the city at 105 meters high, initially built in the 13th century with a neo-gothic look from the 19th century.

Day 17: Depart Zagreb

Aerial view of Bundek Lake and city of Zagreb
Aerial view of Bundek Lake and city of Zagreb

It's time to leave Zagreb and today you will be transferred to the airport to continue your travels or head back home.

Map

Map of Highlights of Croatia & Slovenia: Dubrovnik, Rovinj, Ljubljana, & Zagreb - 17 Days
Map of Highlights of Croatia & Slovenia: Dubrovnik, Rovinj, Ljubljana, & Zagreb - 17 Days