A Taste of Slovenia and Croatia

Sep 30
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October 11, 2027

Day 1: Arrival

Upon arrival in Ljubljana, the magical capital of Slovenia, you will be greeted by the charming blend of historic architecture and modern sustainability initiatives, reflecting Slovenia's status as an eco conscious country. 

After hotel check-in, take some time to relax before our welcome meeting and dinner.  A short walk from the hotel will take you to funicular station, where we will ride up to Ljubljana Castle for dinner with our local guide who will give us an overview of our tour together.

Day 2: Ljubljana Sightseeing

After breakfast, meet your guide for a deeper exploration of Ljubljana’s historic heart. As you walk through the old town, discover how the city blends Baroque architecture, Central European elegance, and modern design. Learn about Jože Plečnik’s architectural legacy while crossing the famous bridges and visiting the lively Central Market, where local producers display cheeses, honey, and fresh produce. 

In the afternoon, board a traditional wooden boat for a scenic cruise along the Ljubljanica River. With a glass of sparkling wine in hand, soak up beautiful views of Ljubljana and see the city from a different angle.

Day 3: Ljubljana - Vintgar Gorge & Lake Bled

After breakfast, depart for alpine jewel of Lake Bled, Slovenia’s most photographed destination.

Take a traditional pletna boat ride to Bled Island and visit the Church of St. Mary. Visit Bled Castle and enjoy lunch in a gostilna-style restaurant in the castle.

Continue to stunning Vintgar Gorge for a scenic morning walk along wooden pathways above emerald waters and waterfalls.

Return to Ljubljana in the evening and enjoy dinner independently with restaurant suggestions provided.

Day 4: From Underground Marvels to Seaside Elegance

After breakfast and check-out, travel south towards Postojna Cave, one of Europe’s most remarkable karst landscapes. Descend into a world of dramatic stalactites and underground halls, experiencing Slovenia’s geological wonders from a unique perspective. 

Continue towards Opatija, a refined seaside town once favoured by European nobility. Enjoy a short guided walk and free time along the Lungomare promenade, where elegant villas and the Adriatic Sea create a timeless atmosphere. Later in the day, proceed inland towards Plitvice, where dinner in a local restaurant offers comforting regional cuisine.

Day 5: Waterfalls, Roman Echoes & the Dalmatian Coast

After breakfast, embark on a guided exploration of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Walk along wooden paths that wind between turquoise lakes and thundering waterfalls, revealing one of Croatia’s most extraordinary natural landscapes. 

The journey continues to Zadar, where ancient Roman ruins meet modern art installations. Enjoy a short walk through the old town and lunch, followed by time to experience the Sea Organ’s melodic sounds. 

In the afternoon, drive to Split, arriving in time to experience the city’s lively evening atmosphere along the waterfront.

Day 6: Emperors, Olive Groves & Mediterranean Flavors

After breakfast, join a guided walking tour through Split’s Old Town, set within the walls of Diocletian’s Palace. Learn how daily life unfolds among ancient columns, hidden courtyards, and historic squares. 

Following the tour, enjoy an olive oil tasting paired with lunch, highlighting one of Dalmatia’s most essential culinary traditions. 

The afternoon is free to relax, explore artisan shops, or enjoy the Mediterranean pace of life before an evening at leisure.

Day 7: Island Life & Dalmatian Wines: Split – Hvar Island

After breakfast, travel by ferry to Hvar Island. Upon arrival, discover Hvar’s rich maritime history and Venetian architecture during a guided walking tour. The town’s sunlit squares and stone streets reflect centuries of island life. 

Later, visit a family-run winery where local grape varieties and traditional production methods are still preserved. Enjoy wine tasting accompanied by local cheeses and prosciutto, offering insight into the flavors shaped by island soil and sun, wine tasting with light lunch

Day 8: Turquoise Bays & Island Indulgence: Hvar – Pakleni islands

After breakfast, set out by speedboat to explore the Pakleni Islands. Swim in secluded bays, relax on hidden beaches, and enjoy a freshly prepared seafood lunch. This day is dedicated to slow enjoyment — salt air, clear water, and simple, high-quality coastal cuisine. 

Return to Hvar in the afternoon, leaving time for personal exploration or relaxation.

Day 9: Vineyards, Stone Streets & Island Heritage: Hvar island – Korčula island

After breakfast, depart Hvar and continue towards Korčula. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided walk through the old town’s narrow streets, learning about its fortified history and maritime traditions. 

The remainder of the day is free for discovery, whether exploring local wine bars, artisan shops, or enjoying the calm island atmosphere. Dinner is served in a traditional restaurant, focusing on local recipes and island wines.

Day 10: Oysters, Ancient Walls & Adriatic Romance: Korčula – Pelješac - Dubrovnik 

After breakfast, travel along the Pelješac Peninsula, stopping in Mali Ston for an oyster tasting. Learn about the region’s centuries-old oyster farming tradition and enjoy their delicate flavors paired with local wine. 

Continue to Dubrovnik, where the evening is free to absorb the city’s romantic atmosphere within its ancient walls. Oyster tasting with light lunch

Day 11: The Pearl from Above & Within: Dubrovnik sightseeing

Experience the essence of Dubrovnik, celebrated as the "Pearl of the Adriatic", with a visit to its iconic sights, including Stradun, the main street, Placa Square, Pile Gate, the Rector's Palace, and more. Explore the City Walls and the picturesque city port, uncovering hidden gems along the way. Immerse yourself in the magic of Dubrovnik, where the stunning locations that served as the backdrop for "Game of Thrones" bring the city's rich history and fantasy world to life. Dive into intriguing stories about the Republic of Ragusa and enjoy the enchantment that makes Dubrovnik one of the most captivating destinations in the world. 

Our mission is to showcase Dubrovnik from every angle, allowing you to fully embrace its unique charm as you explore this extraordinary city. After the city tour, take a cable car to Srđ Hill for stunning panoramas of the Old Town and the Adriatic coast. 

In the evening, gather for a Farewell dinner which will be served in a traditional Dalmatian restaurant

Day 12: Farewell

Dubrovnik:  Independent departures to the airport

Accomodations: 4 and 5 star

  • Ljubljana: AS Boutique Hotel 
  • Plitvice:  Hotel Lyra
  • Split: Piazza Heritage Hotel Fermai
  • Hvar: Hotel Sirena
  • Korcula: Hotel Korsal
  • Dubrovnik: Rixos Hotel

While not all hotels have yet been confirmed, we will provide accommodation in 4+ star hotels in those listed above or similar.

Included

  • Airport arrival and departure transfers
  • All private ground transportation with professional driver
  • Ferry/catamaran transfers to Hvar, Korcula, and Peljesac peninsula
  • Speed boat tour to Pakleni Islands
  • All entrance tickets, wine tastings, boat rides
  • Meals as listed on itinerary (including water, ½ bottle of wine or 2 beers per person)
  • Local guide accompanies us throughout the tour
  • Hosted by Kathleen and Troy

Excluded

Tips for hotel staff, local guides, drivers (approximately 220 euros per person)

Pricing

Cost per person double occupancy:  8000 euros 
Single Supplement: 1650 euros
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Optional Tour Extension 1

Post-tour: Montenegro

Oct 11
-
October 14, 2027

Day 1: Depart Dubrovnik – Bay of Boka (Perast & Our Lady of the Rocks) – Kotor – Budva

Your first introduction to Montenegro is the spectacular Bay of Boka Kotorska, one of the most beautiful natural bays in Europe. The drive along the coast offers breathtaking views of dramatic mountains descending directly into the sea. 

The first stop is Perast, a charming Baroque town nestled along the bay.  From here, enjoy a short boat ride to the iconic island of Our Lady of the Rocks, an artificial island home to an historic church adorned with valuable paintings, silver votive tablets, and a famous tapestry. 

After returning to Perast, continue to Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best preserved medieval towns in the Adriatic. Enjoy a guided walking tour through the Old Town, visiting highlights such as St. Tryphon’s Cathedral, the Church of St. Luke, St. Nicholas Church, and the ancient city walls. 

Free time to explore the atmospheric cobbled streets at your own pace. In the late afternoon, depart the Bay of Boka and continue along the coast to Budva. 

Check-in Hotel Majestic.  Time to relax before meeting for dinner together

Day 2: Budva – Lovćen – Njeguši Tasting – Budva

Depart Budva and drive towards Lovćen National Park via the scenic mountain road offering panoramic views of the Bay of Boka. Stop in Njeguši village, the birthplace of Montenegro’s royal dynasty, where you’ll enjoy a traditional tasting of Njeguši prosciutto and cheese. 

Continue into Lovćen National Park and visit the mausoleum of Petar II Petrović Njegoš, reached by climbing 461 steps. From the top, enjoy spectacular views over Montenegro’s mountains and coastline. 

Return to Budva in the afternoon. Evening at leisure.

Day 3: Budva – Sveti Stefan Photo Stop – Skadar Lake – Wine Tasting – Podgorica

Depart Budva and stop at Saint Stefan for a photo stop at one of Montenegro’s most famous viewpoints. Continue to Skadar Lake National Park. 

In Virpazar, enjoy a relaxing boat cruise through the lake’s waterways, surrounded by lush nature, water lilies, and diverse birdlife. After the boat ride, visit a family-owned winery in the Crmnica region for a guided wine tasting of local Montenegrin wines with a light lunch.

Continue to Podgorica in the afternoon. Check into Boscovich Boutique Hotel and relax before meeting for our farewell dinner together.

Day 4: Departure (Tivat or Podgorica Airport) Breakfast and check-out

Transfer to Podgorica Airport.

Included

  • Private vehicle and professional driver and guide throughout
  • Local guides, entrance fees, boat trip, wine tastings, meals as indicated with water and ½ bottle wine per person
  • Tour will not be hosted by Kathleen and Troy however there will be a local guide with the group throughout the tour

Accomodation in 4-star hotels:

  • Hotel Majestic Budva 2 nights
  • Boscovich Boutique Hotel 1 night

Excluded

Tips for hotels staff, drivers, guides

Pricing

Cost per person double occupancy:  1800 euros 
Single Supplement: 400 euros

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Optional Tour Extension 2

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A Cook's Tour logo
Optional Tour Extension 3

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