Croatia's stunning natural beauty and rich cultural history is on full display.
Fortified towns of cobblestone and terracotta echo a time when Venice ruled the waves.
Operated by Insight Vacations | Exclusive to Further Afield Travel and Tours
14 Days | Activity Level - Balanced | Small Group Journey | Limited to 22 Guests
JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS
Dubrovnik Celebration Dinner: Toast the culmination of your journey with a typical Dalmatian Coast dinner accompanied with wine and grappa
Scenic Drives: Enjoy the scenery of the Adriatic Coast, the Dalmatian Coast, Plitvice Lakes National Park and Peljesac Peninusla
Postojna Caves: Enter by mini-train into these world-famous cave systems, before walking through an illuminated fairland of stalactites and stalagmites
Opatija: Led by your Local Expert, spend a day discovering the Jewels of Istria, including the sparkling seas of Rovinj and the gleaming white stone of the Roman area of Pula
Trogir: See the cathedral of Renaissance Cipiko Palace during an orientation with your Travel Director
Split: Explore above and below the Roman Emperor Diocletian's palace. A Local Expert guides you through labyrinthine streets to see St. Duje's, the Temple of Jupiter, the Golden Gate and the Cellars
Hvar: Cruise back to the mainland to continue your journey
Korcula: Walk the herringbone maze of streets and flagstone plazas with your Local Expert. Learn why the locals claim this is where Marco Polo was born
Plitvice: Join a guided tour in the Plitvice Lakes National Park as you walk along forest paths and the crystal blue-gree waters
Day 1 - Welcome to Zagreb, Croatia
Relax and settle in or perhaps head for the romantic chestnut-lined Stross Promenade for your first views over the city. Join your Travel Director for a Welcome Dinner, with the opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers over a pleasant evening.
Meal(s): Welcome Dinner
Accommodation: Esplanade Zagreb Hotel or similiar
Day 2 - Zagreb - Ljubljana, Slovenia
Join your Local Expert to explore the two-tiered capital of Croatia before heading to Ljubljana. Sitting atop a tall hill in northern Croatia, Trakoscan Castle looks like a castle out of a fairy-tale, proudly peaking its spires out above the tree line, but on closer inspection the signs of neglect have started to mar the centuries-old fortification. After checking into your hotel, the rest of the day is at your leisure.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Accommodation: InterContinental Ljubljana or similiar
Day 3 - Lake Bled - Bled - Slovenia
We journey the rustic natural retreat of Lake Bled, set against the backdrop of forests and mountians. Perched atop a steep cliff rising 130 metres above the glacial Lake Bled is a symbol of Bled and Slovenia - Bled Castle, the oldest castle in Slovenia. As you explore the castle including the Knight's Hall and get a demonstration of printing on a reconstructed Gutenberg's printing machine. If you wish to have a memorial certificate, turn into a castle master printer for several minutes and after some hard work you will learn to appreciate the "black" art (extra cost). Upon return to Ljubljana, the rest of the day is at your leisure to explore this stunning city.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 4 - Postojna Caves and on to Belle-Epoque Opatija, Croatia
Venture into Slovenia to visit the world-famous Postojna Caves. Step aboard the cave train and descend into a subterranean world of stunning stalactites, stalagmites, columns and curtains. Marvel at the five-metre tall Brilliant, the cave's most beautiful stalagmite. Return to Croatia, where your hotel is in the Belle Epoque seaside-resort town of Opatija, nestled at the foot of Mount Ucka. Take time to stroll by the luxurious villas along the tree-lined seafront promenade.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Accommodation: Remisens Premium Heritage Hotel Imperial or similiar
Day 5 - Discover the Jewels of Istria | Pula • Rovinj • Opatija
Cross the heart-shaped peninsula to explore the Jewels of Istria with your Local Expert. Visit the well-preserved first century arena at Pula, the scene of brutal gladiatorial battles in Roman times. Continue to the charming old town of Rovinj, rising directly from the sea. Wander through the cobbled streets lined with tempting shops, pastel-coloured bards and sidewalk cafes.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 6 - Pristine Plitvice National Park
Enjoy the scenery of the Adriatic coast in the morning - journey past sparking deep blue seas, studded with rocky islands, before heading inland to visit one of Europe's great natural wonders. Explore Plitvice with Insight Choice. Choose between two Make Travel Matter Experiences: Join a guided tour of the National Park and walk along forest paths among 16 interconnecting lakes or alternatively, head to the National Park's viewpoint and learn about folklore at the Tara Community centre.
Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Accommodation: Hotel Lyra, Licko Petrovo Selo or similiar
Day 7 - The Dalmatian Coast to Split | Zadar • Trogir • Split
The green forests of Plitvice Lakes National Park give way to pebble-dashed shores lapped by turqoise waters. Walk through the Roman Ruins and market to see the sea organ of Zadar. Witness the dramatic change in landscape, as you travel through Mediterranean olive groves on your way to Trogir, a city vounded by the Greeks in 3rd Century B.C. Admire the cathedral of Renaissance Cipiko Palace before continuing to the historic port of Split. In the evening, consider an Optional Experience, dinner in a traditional konoba. (extra cost)
Meal(s): Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel President Solin or similiar
Day 8 - Island Hopping to Hvar | Split • Hvar
The Roman Emperor Diocletian built his palace here, and today it forms the heart of the Old Town of Split. With your Local Expert, explore the 1,700 year-old place cellars and learn the story of the infamous emperor. Continue through the labyrinthine streets and arcaded squares to see St. Duje's - originally Diocletian's Mausoleum, and the Temple of Jupiter, which today is a baptistery, as well as the Golden Gate. Continue your venture underground, to explore the cellars. Your island-hopping adventure begins here. Cross the azure waters of the Adriatic to spend two nights on Hvar, famed for being the sunniest island in the country and boasting an interior dotted with lofty mountain peaks and aromatic fields of lavender.
Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Accommodation: Amfora, Hvar Grand Beach Resort or similiar
Day 9 - Exploring the Island of Hvar
Enjoy a full day at leisure, as you explore the hidden coves, secluded beaches, old monasteries and villages of Hvar. Perhaps stroll around seaside Stari Grad, known for being one of Europe's oldest towns and a UNESCO World Heritgage Site. Maybe visit the local museum with its impressive collection of archaeological finds dating back to greek antiquity or enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant. You could even see the glitz and glamour of Hvar Town with its yacht-lined marinas, famous for being the trendy playground of the rich and famous.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 10 - On the Trail of Marco Polo to Korcula
Cruise back to the mainland and continue your journey to the island of Korcula, known for its grace, history and rich culture. The perfect place for relaxing, the island is filled with quiet coves and small beaches that dot the south coastline. This evening, delight in Croatian fare at a local restaurant.
Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Accommodation: Hotel Liburna or similiar
Day 11 - Captivating Korcula
In the morning, join a knowledgeable Local Expert for a walking tour of the Old Town. Marvel at spectacular views of the mainland as you stroll towards the main square of Korcula where the Cathedral of St. Marc dominates the ancient skyline. Hear about local legends and history from your Local Expert, viewing the Town Museum, the Bishop's Palace with its treasury collection and the Town Hall. Visit the ruins of the house where according to local legend Marco Polo was born. The rest of the day is at your leisure to enjoy the narrow streets, beautiful churches and magnificent places of this charming medieval town.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 12 - Dubrovnik, Pearl of the Adriatic
Journey to the beautiful southern slopes of the Peljesac Peninsula. Should weather permit, cruise the tranquil waters of the bay of Mali Ston and admire the surrounding untouched natural beauty, as you enjoy a glass of traditional Croatian brandy. Stop at a shellfish farm and meet Tomislav, a local oyster farmer, to learn about the cultivation and harvest of oysters. Enjoy a delicious Sea-To-Table tasting of the fresh shellfish, accompanied with a glass of wine. Continue to the walled town of Dubrovnik, 'Paradise on Earth' according to George Bernard Shaw. Join a walking exploration of the city, guided by a Local Expert. Get a glimpse into local life, as you explore the stone-paved streets inside the 16th century bastions of the Old Town. Walk past Onofrio's Fountain, see the Old Jewish Quarter and the synagogue, and marvel at the grandeur of the cathedral and the Franciscan and Dominican monasteries. With the rest of the day at your leisure, perhaps enjoy the luxuries of the five-star Hotel Dubrovnik Palace, your home for the next two nights. Located moments away from the Adriatic with spectacular views of the Elafiti Islands your hotel provides exclusive access to a private beach. in the evening, you can join an Optional Experience and enjoy dinner at a family home in a local small village. Meet the family who will explain how they make olive oil using antique olive oil press, before savouring a freshly prepared meal service with wine. (extra cost)
Meal(s): Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Dubrovnik Palace or similiar
Day 13 - Dubrovnik Sightseeing
This morning make the most of a day at leisure in the Pearl of the Adriatic. Relax by the pool shop in the markets or perhaps take the opportunity to visit Cavtat, one of the most enchanting seaside resorts in Croatia. This evening, should weather permit, your're invited to embark on a dazzling cruise around the fabled bay of Dubrovnik. Gaze out at the views of the glistening Adriatic and the mighty city walls rising straight from the cliffs before your cruise moors in the Old Town Harbour. Start your Celebration Dinner with the national favourite drink, a glass of grappa. Savour authentic flavours of local specialties washed won with locally produced wine.
Meal(s): Breakfast, Celebration Dinner
Day 14 - Depart Dubrovnik
Your travels draw to a close on the Adriatic coast. Your memories will stay with you for years to come.
Personalize your vacation by adding additional nights pre or post tour. Inquire.
BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE - DEPOSIT PAYMENT IS FULLY REFUNDABLE UNTIL 95 DAYS BEFORE DEPARTURE ON THIS TOUR.
This policy is valid on most Further Afield Travel and Tours Groups for travel departing prior to December 31, 2022. This policy is subject to change. Some restrictions may apply.
Land Only: C$6,250 per person based on twin accommodation
Solo Supplement: C$1,450
Deposit: C$250 deposit
Deposit 2: C$250, December 29, 2021
Balance Due: February 1, 2022
Personalize your trip: Pre/post accommodation, airfare, prepaid gratuities. Inquire
The advertised price is in Canadian Dollars and includeds security & local taxes per the itinerary.
Group price is based on minimum of 16 guests. Trips with fewer 16 than guests may be subject to cancellation.
We reserve the right to deviate from the tour itinerary, inclusions or hotels should circumstances dictate.
Travel insurance is required for all guests covering all applicable dates of travel. This insurance must cover; trip interruption, personal injury, medical expenses, evacuation and repatriation cover including during pandemic events. Proof of insurance is required.
DINING SUMMARY:
13 Breakfast | 5 Dinners
WHATS INCLUDED
Highly-skilled Travel Director will ensure your journey is seamless, serving as your expert guide, consummate, organiser and friend overseas
Professional driver and comfort of a luxury air-conditioned coach
Personal radio headsets, giving you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights without missing any of your Local Expert's commentary
We carry your bags for you and promptly delive them to your hotel door
Hotel and restaurant tips are included
One group airport transfer for arrival and departure - inquire for details
13 Breakfast, 5 Dinners
Deluxe Accommodation (13 Nights)
WHATS NOT INCLUDED
No early check in/late check out
International, domestic and internal airfares
Travel insurance, visas, items of personal nature
Gratuities to Travel Director, Coach Drivers and Local Experts
Cancellations: 90 days and over prior to departure - loss of per person deposits, 89 - 60 days prior to departure - 50% per person of the total trip cost, 59 - 31 days prior to departure 75% per person of the total trip cost, 30 - Day of departure/no show - 100% per person of the total trip cost.
Additional supplier penalties may apply depending on the date of cancellation.
Amendments: An administration fee of $75 per person may apply to any changes made to your booking once confirmed, including but not limited to changes in pre/post trip accommodation and transfers. Please note that name changes are not allowed and flight changes are subject to availability and airline policies.
Refunds: No refund is available if cancellations occur after the trip has commenced or in respect to any trips, accommodation, meals or any other services not utilized.
Itinerary Changes & Trip Cancellation: Further Afield Travel and Tours reserves the right to vary itineraries should circumstances dictate, as well as cancel or reschedule any tour departure in accordance with operating requirements, or circumstances beyond its control. The advertised tours require minimum numbers to depart. Should these not be met, Further Afield Travel and Tours reserves the right to cancel arrangements.
Trip Membership: Any person aged 5 or more is eligible, through if less thatn 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. The Travel Director may at his/her discretion, require any person to withdraw from any trip if he or she deems the person's acts or conduct offensive or nuisance to other passengers, and we shall have no further liability.
Air: Airfare is NOT included and is an additional cost. Please inquire.
Baggage Allowance & Porterage: Porterage of one suitcase per person is included in the trip price for arrival & departure from hotels in Europe. Due to limited coach capacity, the dimensions must not exceed 30" x 18" x 10" (76x46x25cm) and weight should not exceed 23km (50 Lbs). Charges may be levied in the event these limits are exceeded & the promise to transport you may be invalidated.
Disclaimer: We do our utmost to ensure that the information posted on our website is correct at time of publication, however trip details and promotions are subject to change without notice by the suppliers and operators involved. We update the information as soon as possible when changes are advised to us, however we cannot assume responsibility for such changes made by the suppliers and operators. Terms and conditions per supplier. Please confirm details and booking information with your travel advisor. Contact us for the most up to date pricing and availability.
We appreciate your business and look forward to working with you again soon.