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Best of Croatia and Slovenia with Pearls of the Adriatic Lower Deck
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Best of Croatia and Slovenia with Pearls of the Adriatic Lower Deck
Don't miss a thing on this epic Croatia and Slovenia trip where the travel highlight is a heart-warming visit with Monika and Gregor on their ecological farm near Lake Bled. Along with all the main sights, you'll soak up the sun-kissed village atmosphere on the sparkling Adriatic. Discover why Rab is the 'island of love', explore the buzzing historic centre of Split and fill up on sun-kissed days along the Dalmatian coast.
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Trip code
CISL
Best of Croatia and Slovenia with Pearls of the Adriatic Lower Deck
Don't miss a thing on this epic Croatia and Slovenia trip where the travel highlight is a heart-warming visit with Monika and Gregor on their ecological farm near Lake Bled. Along with all the main sights, you'll soak up the sun-kissed village atmosphere on the sparkling Adriatic. Discover why Rab is the 'island of love', explore the buzzing historic centre of Split and fill up on sun-kissed days along the Dalmatian coast.
Embark on an off-the-beaten track discovery of Croatia. The capital city of Zagreb is your springboard to an enchanting journey through what was once a troubled region and is today a land of diverse cultures and traditions. Meet your Travel Director and fellow travellers this evening for a Welcome Reception and orientation drive.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Hilton Garden Inn
Spend the morning exploring Zagreb with a Local Specialist before travelling through romantic landscapes to the lakeside resort town of Bled, where we'll stay the next two nights.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Park
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optional Experience
Traditional Slovenian Village Experience
Come with us on a journey to Radovljica, a well-preserved medieval alpine village with houses dating from the 15th and 16th century. Enjoy a meal at a traditional Slovenian Inn, where you'll be entertained by local musicians and see the famous living gingerbread museum, where you can admire staff producing red traditional hearts.
Adult Price: €53.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 3
Discover Enchanting Bled
Spend today exploring this magnificent setting on your terms, but not before sailing on Lake Bled's crystal-clear waters to Bled Island to view its Church of the Assumption. This evening, at our Be My Guest experience, savour local Slovenian flavours as you Connect With Locals at a traditional dinner with a local family.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast, Be My Guest
Optional Experience
Alpine Jewels And Lake Bohinj
Join our Local Specialist to Slovenia's largest glacier lake. We'll see mountain villages and photo-worthy vistas along the way, before continuing along the stunning shores of Lake Bohinj. Admire the 13th-century frescoes of St John's Church and indulge in one of Slovenia's famous desserts.
Adult Price: €43.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 4
Onwards to Ljubljana and Opatija
We leave the beauty of Bled behind for one of Europe's smallest capitals. Embark on an orientation tour of Ljubljana this morning, admiring its Old Town, bridges and castle. We continue to the seaside resort of Opatija.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Paris
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optional Experience
Truffle Hunt and Istrian Dinner
Take a scenic drive with our Local Specialist through Istria to the iconic Motovun region, where we'll hear about the significance and decadence of truffles and assist a local farmer on a real life truffle-hunting experience. Afterwards, we'll enjoy a light dinner of Istrian specialities, with dishes featuring truffles found during our experience.
Adult Price: €75.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 5
Enjoy a Day in Pula and Rovinj
Seaside splendour is on the agenda today and you'll start your day in the coastal city of Pula on Croatia's Istrian Peninsula. A visit to the 1st century arena with a Local Specialist will unravel the city's historical role as a strategic location for the Romans, Ostrogoths, Venetians and Allied Forces in World War II. Later, we head to the fishing port of Rovinj, where we wander through the Old Town and witness it's Mediterranean influences. Return to Opatija for some free time. See the statuesque nymph, her hand outstretched to cradle a seagull as a symbol of this region, and admire the belle-époque architecture.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Day 6
Off to Stunning Plitvice
The extraordinary natural beauty of Plitvice takes centre stage today as we embark on a guided walking tour. Admire the cascade of spectacular waterfalls and crystal-clear waters reflecting green, grey and blue against the lush landscapes. Enjoy dinner at your hotel.
Today, we visit the walled island of Trogir with a Local Specialist. The stone town is connected to the mainland and the island of Čiovo by bridges and will delight lovers of art, and Renaissance, Baroque and Romanesque architecture. We continue our journey to Split, where we'll join a Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour and Dive Into Culture when we visit Diocletian's Palace, built for the emperor's retirement. Spend the evening on your own, or join an Optional Experience to enjoy traditional Dalmatian flavours.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Atrium
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optional Experience
Traditional Konoba Dinner
If you want to truly experience Dalmatian cuisine, a dinner in a traditional stone basement 'konoba' is the best choice. You'll select from a variety of seafood or meats accompanied by Dalmatian wines and typical live music, which will add a local touch to your journey on the Croatian Adriatic coastline.
Adult Price: €55.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 8
Split Your Way
Delve into centuries of heritage on this free day in Split. Consider a full-day Optional Experience to one of the Dalmatian islands. Ascend the bell tower for magnificent views of the sprawling terracotta roofs and white marble façades that edge on to the Adriatic or savour the city's delicious gastronomy at cafés tucked away in hidden lanes.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optional Experience
Jewel of the Adriatic
A memorable day trip to Hvar, one of the most beautiful islands in the Croatian archipelago. Embarking on a boat ride from Split harbour, we'll explore the historic Hvar Old Town on foot with our Local Specialist. You'll spend free time relaxing along one of the seafront restaurants or soaking up the stunning views from the Venetian hilltop fortress. We then sail back over the Adriatic on our return to Split. Please note: during May or September, Hvar may be substituted for Brac
Adult Price: €75.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 9
Continue to Dubrovnik
The impressive walls of Dubrovnik beckon, but not before we stop to admire the extraordinary walled city of Ston, with its dramatic views and laid-back fishing village atmosphere. Dive Into Culture and visit Europe's oldest salt pans where you'll hear how salt has been harvested here since ancient times. We continue to Dubrovnik this evening.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Lapad
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optional Experience
Sunset Cruise And Dinner
Our sunset cruise takes us along the spectacular Dalmatian coast to a secluded bay, where we'll enjoy a delicious local dinner with drinks. To complete the evening, we'll cruise alongside the old city walls and explore the beautiful illuminated city of Dubrovnik, before returning by coach to our hotel. Note: This optional is weather dependent and may not be available on all departures. On occasion, the cruise may sail in the bay only.
Adult Price: €62.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 10
Explore Iconic Dubrovnik
Tread in the footsteps of Lord Byron and George Bernard Shaw, who were intoxicated by the allure of Dubrovnik. With your Local Specialist, you'll embark on a Small Group Sightseeing tour past the Rector's Palace, Onofrio's Fountain and the Franciscan and Dominican monasteries, before spending time on your own. As the first half of your journey comes to an end, a Farewell Dinner bids goodbye to some guests, while you prepare for your cruise encounter.
Journey along the coast for a relaxing trip to the picturesque village of Cavtat, arriving at the harbour on our own chartered boat. Enjoy a leisurely stroll with our Local Specialist in the quaint old town and take the opportunity to admire the yachts in the marina, visit the beach or walk up to the Racic Mausoleum.
Adult Price: €35.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 11
Embark and Cruise to Korčula
A leisurely start to your day could see you get your final fix of Dubrovnik. Then, transfer to the MV Aquamarin where you'll meet your onboard team. Set sail for Korčula, most famously the birthplace of Marco Polo and reminiscent of Dubrovnik with its medieval squares, churches and palaces. You'll discover why the locals call it 'The Black Island' and see how its towering walls have shielded its capital for centuries as it came under the rule of the Greeks, the Romans, the Venetians and even the British. After a tour through the Old Town's narrow streets, you'll have time to soak up the local atmosphere in one of the many konobas, restaurants or cocktail bars.
Follow in the footsteps of ancient Illyrian, Greek and Roman sailors as you cruise to Metković. It's here, on the banks of the Neretva, that you'll find one of the last remaining wetland deltas in Europe. A barge ride into the groves provides the perfect opportunity to view the local flora, fauna and birdlife. Next, visit the Narona Archaeological Museum, where you'll see the remains of the Augusteum Roman temple, at the heart of what was once a major Roman stronghold. Tonight, you'll be hosted by the Captain for dinner.
Your cruise continues towards the capital of Dalmatia and the home to the UNESCO-listed Diocletian's palace. Explore another aspect of Split's buzzing historical town centre on foot with your Local Specialist who will share all the iconic and unexpected highlights with you as you wind your way towards Split Market at the heart of Croatia's second-largest city. Watch the animated vendors ply their fruits, fish and vegetables to locals visiting the market for their daily grocery run. You'll be tempted to stay in Split forever, but the comfort of your ship beckons.
Arrive in Skradin and travel to Bibich winery where you'll get to sample some of the indigenous varietals produced by this boutique family-owned vineyard. Next up is a visit to Krka Waterfalls National Park, where you'll visit 'Skradinski Buk', a spectacular vantage point from which to view 17 separate falls cascading 45 metres to the pools below. Refreshed after taking a dip in the crystal waters, you'll have the afternoon to explore the cultural monuments and waterfront attractions of Šibenik, a historic city along the Dalmatian coast and the oldest native Croatian town on the shores of the Adriatic.
Cruise to Zadar, Croatia's oldest university town. From the 1st-century Roman forum to the 9th-century St. Donat Church, there's history around every turn. After exploring the wealth of museums, churches and palaces, you'll make your way to Zadar's Riva to see (and hear) the mesmerising Sea Organ, comprising several stairs that descend into the sea.
Today you'll explore the 'island of love'. A guided tour of Rab will reveal its highlights, including its ancient walls, church bell towers and the monastery at the 16th-century Church of St. Justine. Sample Rab cake and enjoy a presentation of how this local delight is made. Rub shoulders with local artists who add a splash of colour to the streets of the town before returning to your cruise ship.
Opatija was a favourite getaway of the Habsburgs and we’re sure that you’ll be looking forward to a return here too. Often compared to the French Riviera, the area has a colourful history which is brought to life by your 'Local Specialist'. Savour the town's café culture and stroll down Franz Joseph promenade to the fishing village of Volosko. Tonight your Farewell Dinner on board is paired with live entertainment.
Say a fond farewell to your newfound friends and take your airport transfer for your return flight. Find out more about your free airport transfer at trafalgar.com/freetransfers.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
All optional experiences for this trip
Book with your travel director when you travel
Available on day 2
Traditional Slovenian Village Experience
Come with us on a journey to Radovljica, a well-preserved medieval alpine village with houses dating from the 15th and 16th century. Enjoy a meal at a traditional Slovenian Inn, where you'll be entertained by local musicians and see the famous living gingerbread museum, where you can admire staff producing red traditional hearts.
Adult Price: €53.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 3
Alpine Jewels And Lake Bohinj
Join our Local Specialist to Slovenia's largest glacier lake. We'll see mountain villages and photo-worthy vistas along the way, before continuing along the stunning shores of Lake Bohinj. Admire the 13th-century frescoes of St John's Church and indulge in one of Slovenia's famous desserts.
Adult Price: €43.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 4
Truffle Hunt and Istrian Dinner
Take a scenic drive with our Local Specialist through Istria to the iconic Motovun region, where we'll hear about the significance and decadence of truffles and assist a local farmer on a real life truffle-hunting experience. Afterwards, we'll enjoy a light dinner of Istrian specialities, with dishes featuring truffles found during our experience.
Adult Price: €75.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 7
Traditional Konoba Dinner
If you want to truly experience Dalmatian cuisine, a dinner in a traditional stone basement 'konoba' is the best choice. You'll select from a variety of seafood or meats accompanied by Dalmatian wines and typical live music, which will add a local touch to your journey on the Croatian Adriatic coastline.
Adult Price: €55.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 8
Jewel of the Adriatic
A memorable day trip to Hvar, one of the most beautiful islands in the Croatian archipelago. Embarking on a boat ride from Split harbour, we'll explore the historic Hvar Old Town on foot with our Local Specialist. You'll spend free time relaxing along one of the seafront restaurants or soaking up the stunning views from the Venetian hilltop fortress. We then sail back over the Adriatic on our return to Split. Please note: during May or September, Hvar may be substituted for Brac
Adult Price: €75.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 9
Sunset Cruise And Dinner
Our sunset cruise takes us along the spectacular Dalmatian coast to a secluded bay, where we'll enjoy a delicious local dinner with drinks. To complete the evening, we'll cruise alongside the old city walls and explore the beautiful illuminated city of Dubrovnik, before returning by coach to our hotel. Note: This optional is weather dependent and may not be available on all departures. On occasion, the cruise may sail in the bay only.
Adult Price: €62.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 10
Panoramic Cavtat
Journey along the coast for a relaxing trip to the picturesque village of Cavtat, arriving at the harbour on our own chartered boat. Enjoy a leisurely stroll with our Local Specialist in the quaint old town and take the opportunity to admire the yachts in the marina, visit the beach or walk up to the Racic Mausoleum.
Adult Price: €35.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
All Optional Experiences
The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
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About this trip
About this trip
What's included
Trip Summary Accomodation Icon
17 nights
Accommodation
Trip Summary Meals Icon
30 Meals
17 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners (including Be My Guest)s
Trip Summary Transport Icon
On-trip Transport
All transport shown. VIP private door-to-door UK airport transfers included. *This service is excluded from UK-based trips.
The Trafalgar difference
Connect with Locals
On their fifth-generation-owned family farm in Bled, you'll enjoy an exclusive Be My Guest dinner and guided walk around the farm with Monika, Gregor, their children and the resident farm animals. (Day 3)
Dive into Culture
See the ancient fortress built in Split as a retirement residence for Roman Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century. (Day 7) In Ston, visit the salt pans that date back to the 2nd century BC and are surrounded by expansive fortifications still intact to this day. (Day 9)
Sightseeing highlights
Experience Ti Filled Icon
Visit the Church of Assumption on Bled Island, Plitvice National Park, Diocletian's Palace in Split and the salt pans in Ston, Dubrovnik, Metković, the Narona Archaeological Museum, Split Market, Skradin, Bibich winery, Krka Waterfalls National Park, Skradinski Buk, Šibenik, Zadar and Volokso
Experience Ti Filled Icon
See Zagreb's Ban Jelačić Square, the Opera House and Castle of Ljubljana and the Old City of Dubrovnik, the Augusteum Roman Temple in Metković and the Zadar Sea Organ
Experience Ti Filled Icon
Scenic Cruise to Bled Island
Experience Ti Filled Icon
Explore Zagreb, Pula, Rovinj, Trogir, Split and Dubrovnik with a Local Specialist
Experience Ti Filled Icon
Discover Ljubljana, Bled, Opatija and Ston
Experience Ti Filled Icon
View the Park of Sv. Jakov in Opatija and the lakes and waterfalls of Plitvice National Park
The 'Pearls of the Adriatic' cruise joins seamlessly with either the 'Best of Croatia and Slovenia' trip (CRSL) or the 'Contrasts of Italy' trip (ITGV) with all transfers included.
Cruise Ship: This cruise is operated by Katarina Lines MV Aquamarin.
Port Taxes: All prices are inclusive of port taxes and are accurate as of July 2019.
Shared Rooming: Room Share and Triple Rooms are not available on this trip.
Port Taxes: All prices are inclusive of port taxes.
Unless otherwise stated, trip prices are per person, land only, based on double occupancy and reflect applicable discount. Discounts are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice.
Trip prices are correct at the time of the products going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking. All trip information is correct at time of trips going live, however are subject to change - please confirm all details at time of booking.
Twin-share option not available for trips to South America, Costa Rica, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, South Africa, Kenya & Tanzania, Botswana, Zambia or for any holiday & cruise combination, or in Asia and Eastern Mediterranean except Highlights of Turkey (without cruise) & Best of Turkey. It's also not available on Small Group trips. Guided Vacations included in this restriction are Newfoundland and Labrador (DNLA). Does not apply to trips operated by Inspiring Journeys & our Mini-stays.
For trips that are part of our Guaranteed Room Share, please note that there is a no smoking policy in all shared rooms. Solo travel is not accepted on guided Family Experiences holidays unless travelling as part of a family group.
VIP private door-to-door UK airport transfers included. *This service is excluded from UK-based trips.
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Your selected departure date will feature some seasonal itinerary changes to what is displayed. Click 'VIEW ITINERARY' below to see full details.
Active Trip Details
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What is an Active Trip? This is an "Active" lifestyle itinerary, with walks and hikes most days. Hikes will range from easy/moderate to strenuous. No technical climbing skills are required but a reasonable level of fitness is required to make the trip more enjoyable. Understanding that not all people want to hike at the same pace or even on the same trail we will, where possible, host map orientation and then let everyone disperse to enjoy the trails best suited to them.
What to Pack Guests should bring lightweight hiking shoes or boots, broad brimmed sun hats, sunglasses, layered clothing, reusable water bottle(s), a hiking day pack and hiking poles (optional) Weather & Altitude While the itinerary is laid out below, we are at the mercy of the weather and so reserve the right to adjust the program as necessary. Please keep in mind that the higher elevations and possible variations in weather and temperature can increase the perceived level of difficulty of our activities. Elevation ranges up to 9,000 feet for Utah’s Mighty Five and up to 11,000 feet for California High Country Adventure.
Everyone reacts differently to altitude and so if you do have any health issues you should check with your doctor that this trip is suitable for you.