Suggested Tours to Croatia

Day 1 UK to Zagreb

Fly to Zagreb. You will be met and transferred to the Hotel Jägerhorn (Classic Room)for three nights.

Day 2 Zagreb

Full day city sightseeing tour. Zagreb was an important trading centre, located on the Sava River at the foot of Mount Medvednica. In the 19^th century, the city’s fortunes benefitted from new rail links to Vienna and Budapest. It became Croatia’s capital on its independence in 1991. This small city is perfect for strolling through streets lined with outdoor cafes, enjoying the museums and art galleries or visiting the theatres. The buildings are a mix of imposing classical from the Austro-Hungarian Empire and stern socialist constructions leading to busy squares, markets and parks. The centre is not lacking in evening entertainment with plenty of restaurants, pubs and clubs.

Day 3 Zagreb

This morning drive out to visit Varaždin. Varaždin is a delightful city. It was Croatia’s capital for twenty years in the 1700’s and many impressive buildings were created at that time. Set on the Drava River in the North of Croatia, only 80 kms from Zagreb, Varaždin has a lovely centre, full of pastel-coloured baroque facades, which benefits from a lack of crowds. A highlight is the Sermage Palace, which houses the Gallery of Old and Modern Masters. The gallery features an impressive collection of Croatian, Dutch and Italian artists in a beautiful mansion. Stari Grad is a 14^th century fortress which now contains a local history museum.

Return to Zagreb via Trakošćan Castle, built in the 13^th century on Croatia's north-western border, as a fortress for monitoring the road from Ptuj in Slovenia to Bednja Valley. The castle was owned by the aristocratic Drašković family from 1584 to the 20^th century. In the mid-19^th century the castle was remodelled in the romantic style and extensive gardens and a lake were added. Trakošćan was abandoned after WW2 and taken over by the state. The castle now contains collections of weapons, furniture, paintings, books and photographs. A visit to the castle is a delightful break to travelling.

Day 4 Zagreb to Rovinj – by bus

Today take a local bus across the Istrian Peninsula to Bus to the lovely port of Rovinj. Stay three nights at the Villas Rubin Resort (Standard Room)

Day 5 Rovinj To Day 6

At leisure. Rovinj is still a working fishing port and the dawn brings boats and a new supply of fresh fish for the cafes and restaurants. Steep cobbled streets and charming piazzas add to the atmosphere and a stroll through the narrow alleys evoke images of its Venetian past. On the southern part of the Istrian peninsula, Rovinj was originally an island, but as the population increased with refugees from the Turkish invasion the town was connected to the mainland in 1763. Austrian, Italian and Yugoslavian rulers have all left their cultural influences. A day of exploring should end at one of the seaside cafes watching the sunset.

Day 7 Rovinj to Pula – 39 kms Pula to UK

In the morning drive to Pula airport and fly to the UK

11 days from £3,360 per person

Day 1 London to Zagreb

Fly to Zagreb. You will be met and transferred to the Hotel Jägerhorn (Classic Room) / Esplanade Zagreb Hotel (Deluxe Room) for three nights.

Day 2 Zagreb

Full day city sightseeing tour. Zagreb was an important trading centre, located on the Sava River at the foot of Mount Medvednica. In the 19^th century, the city’s fortunes benefitted from new rail links to Vienna and Budapest. It became Croatia’s capital on its independence in 1991. This small city is perfect for strolling through streets lined with outdoor cafes, enjoying the museums and art galleries or visiting the theatres. The buildings are a mix of imposing classical from the Austro-Hungarian Empire and stern socialist constructions leading to busy squares, markets and parks. The centre is not lacking in evening entertainment with plenty of restaurants, pubs and clubs.

Day 3 Zagreb

At leisure.

Day 4 Zagreb to Zadar – 269 kms

Drive to Zadar via Plitvice Lakes National Park, one of the oldest National Parks in South-eastern Europe and the largest in Croatia. The main attraction is a series of interconnected lakes in various colours depending on levels of bacteria and organisms. Along these lakes are wooden walkways following the flow of the river and waterfalls, the tallest of which, Veliki Slap, is over 78m high. The park is home to bears, wolves and wild cats and to many plants including orchids.

Stay two nights at the Hotel Bastion (Double Room) / Falkensteiner Hotel Adriana (Superior Room).

Day 5 Zadar

Full day city sightseeing tour. Zadar’s position on the Dalmatian Coast makes it an excellent departure point for the ferries to the beautiful outlying islands. The city itself is no less attractive, with a medieval Old Town crowded on to a small peninsula. This contains Roman ruins, Venetian palaces, ancient churches and interesting museums amongst narrow streets, full of cafes and restaurants. The historic sites are complemented by fascinating creations by Nikola Bašić, a local architect, including the Sea Organ, a collection of pipes and whistles, played by the sea. Full of culture, entertainment and history, Zadar should not be overlooked.

Day 6 Zadar to Split – 170 kms

Drive to Split via Krka National Park and Trogir. Krka National Park is situated along the Krka River and consists of a series of spectacular waterfalls. In the south of the park are the Skradinski Buk Falls surrounded by traditional watermills. In the north are the impressive Roški Slap Falls and the picturesque Krka Monastery built over ancient Roman catacombs. On a pretty island is the secluded Visovac catholic monastery and museum.

Inhabited for over 2300 years, Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is beautifully set on a small island, connected by bridges between the Croatian mainland and the island of Čiovo. Clustered within medieval walls are fine examples of Romanesque and Renaissance buildings from the city’s Venetian era and serving the visitor are plenty of bars and cafes lining the seafront promenade.

Stay two nights at the Antique Split Luxury Rooms (Deluxe Room) / Palace Judita Heritage Hotel (Deluxe Room with Balcony).

Day 7 Split

Full day city sightseeing tour. Split is the largest city on the Adriatic Coast and the second largest in Croatia. The Old Town is situated on a peninsula and its history of Roman, Venetian, Austrian, French, Italian and Yugoslav influence has left many well-preserved buildings and artefacts, including the stunning palace built for the Roman Emperor, Diocletian and the statue of medieval Croatian bishop Grgur Ninski (rubbing the toe brings good luck). With excellent restaurants and bars, Split serves as a destination alone or as a gateway to the Dalmatian Islands by ferry or flight. Split Archaeological Museum, created in 1820, is Croatia’s oldest and offers a comprehensive explanation of regional history and culture.

Day 8 Split to Dubrovnik – 230 kms

Drive to Dubrovnik stopping en route to visit the ancient town of Ston and the second longest complete city walls in Europe. See the Ston salt works or take a boat out to an oyster farm and enjoy lunch. On  arrival in Dubrovnik proceed to the Pucic Palace Hotel (Executive Room) / Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik (Executive Room) for three nights.

Day 9 Dubrovnik

Full day city sightseeing tour. Dubrovnik, Pearl of the Adriatic, achieved its wealth through astute trading. During the Republic of Ragusa, the inhabitants of Dubrovnik used their riches to build beautiful houses and fill them with sophisticated artistic objects. Sited within sturdy medieval walls, the pedestrian-only Old Town has many ornate palaces and elegant Baroque churches built in honey-coloured stone. The Cultural History Museum at the Rectors Palace has many splendours on display in an impressive setting and the city’s naval traditions are documented at the Maritime Museum in an old fortress. In summer, the city is busy with people enjoying the clear waters, the excellent seafood restaurants and the exciting nightlife. It is well worth the time to walk the city walls to enjoy sublime views of this fine city.

Day 10 Dubrovnik

At leisure.

Day 11 Dubrovnik to London

Fly back to London.

Day 1 London to Zagreb

Fly to Zagreb. You will be met and transferred to the Hotel Jägerhorn (Classic Room) / Esplanade Zagreb Hotel (Deluxe Room) for three nights.

Day 2 Zagreb

Full day city sightseeing tour. Zagreb was an important trading centre, located on the Sava River at the foot of Mount Medvednica. In the 19^th century, the city’s fortunes benefited from new rail links to Vienna and Budapest. It became Croatia’s capital on its independence in 1991. This small city is perfect for strolling through streets lined with outdoor cafes, enjoying the museums and art galleries or visiting the theatres. The buildings are a mix of imposing classical from the Austro-Hungarian Empire and stern socialist constructions leading to busy squares, markets and parks. The centre is not lacking in evening entertainment with plenty of restaurants, pubs and clubs.

Day 3 Zagreb to Varaždin – 85 kms

Drive to Varaždin. Stay two nights at the Hotel Istra (Superior Double Room) / Park Boutique Hotel (Park Room).

Day 4 Varaždin

Sightseeing of Varaždin. Varaždin is a delightful city. It was Croatia’s capital for twenty years in the 1700’s and many impressive buildings were created at that time. Set on the Drava River in the North of Croatia, only 80 kms from Zagreb, Varaždin has a lovely centre, full of pastel-coloured baroque facades, which benefits from a lack of crowds. A highlight is the Sermage Palace, which houses the Gallery of Old and Modern Masters. The gallery features an impressive collection of Croatian, Dutch and Italian artists in a beautiful mansion. Stari Grad is a 14^th century fortress which now contains a local history museum.

Drive out to Trakošćan Castle, built in the 13^th century on Croatia's north-western border, as a fortress for monitoring the road from Ptuj in Slovenia to Bednja Valley. The castle was owned by the aristocratic Drašković family from 1584 to the 20^th century. In the mid-19^th century the castle was remodelled in the romantic style and extensive gardens and a lake were added. Trakošćan was abandoned after WW2 and taken over by the state. The castle now contains collections of weapons, furniture, paintings, books and photographs. A visit to the castle is a delightful break to travelling.

Day 5 Varaždin to Motovun – 341 kms

Today is a long drive through Northern Croatia to Motovun. En route stop at Fužine and enjoy a walk along Bajer Lake, have lunch and taste traditional sweets. Alternatively, break the journey in elegant Opatija. Take a walk along the beautiful ‘lungomare’ coastal path and have lunch here. On arrival in Motovun proceed to the Villa Borgo (Valley View Room) / Hotel Kaštel (Exclusive Room with Balcony) for two nights.

Day 6 Motovun

Sightseeing. Motovun is a charming little town balanced high on a steep hill overlooking the Mirna River valley in Istria. The town was fortified by the Venetians in the 14^th century and is approached through two gates in the walls protecting the town. The narrow streets are crammed with gorgeous Romanesque and Baroque buildings, many now containing artist studios. The venetian St Stephens (Sveti Stjepan) church boasts a 16^th century bell tower. Enjoy the fantastic views over the valley and relax at a café. Every summer the town hosts the renowned Film Festivals to hundreds of visitors.

Day 7 Motovun to Rovinj – 47 kms

Drive to Rovinj. Stay two nights at the Angelo d’Oro Hotel (Rooftop Suite) / Hotel Adriatic (Piazza Room).

Day 8 Rovinj

At leisure. Rovinj is still a working fishing port and the dawn brings boats and a new supply of fresh fish for the cafes and restaurants. Steep cobbled streets and charming piazzas add to the atmosphere and a stroll through the narrow alleys evoke images of its Venetian past. On the southern part of the Istrian peninsula, Rovinj was originally an island, but as the population increased with refugees from the Turkish invasion the town was connected to the mainland in 1763. Austrian, Italian and Yugoslavian rulers have all left their cultural influences. A day of exploring should end at one of the seaside cafes watching the sunset.

Day 9 Rovinj to Pula – 39 kms
Pula to London

Morning drive to Pula airport and fly back to London.

Day 1 London to Ljubljana
Ljubljana to Bled – 40 kms

Fly to Ljubljana. You will be met on arrival and then driven to Bled. Stay two nights at the Hotel Triglav (Lake View Room) / Grand Hotel Toplice (Standard Room).

Day 2 Bled

Morning sightseeing. This lakeside town in the Upper Carniolan region of Slovenia enjoys incredibly picturesque views of the surrounding mountains, an ancient castle perched on a steep rock and a serene island in the middle of Lake Bled. It is possible to take a boat to the island and climb the 99 steps to St Mary's Church to ring its bell for luck. The town developed as a health spa resort for the European elite and is perfect for walking in the surrounding forests and hills, boating on the lake or skiing in winter. Bled is known throughout Slovenia for kremšnita, a vanilla and cream pastry. Afternoon at leisure.

Day 3 Bled to Ljubljana – 54 kms

Return to Ljubljana. Stay two nights at the Adora Hotel (Studio) / Antiq Palace Hotel & Spa (Deluxe Suite).

Day 4 Ljubljana

Full day city sightseeing tour. Ljubljana is the capital city of Slovenia since its independence in 1991. The city is compact and has some fine examples of Austro-Hungarian architecture. As an important trading centre between the Venetian Adriatic ports and the Danube region, Ljubljana became wealthy and saw frequent changes of control between the regional powers. The city is surrounded by low hills upon one of which is medieval Ljubljana Castle. Decorative Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance architecture surround central Prešeren Square and more recent buildings are represented by Nebotičnik, a 13-storey, Art-Deco, residential and business block from the 1930s. As in most of Slovenia, parks and green spaces abound and the winding Ljubljanica River is crossed by many pretty bridges.

Day 5 Ljubljana to Opatija – 109 kms

Drive south visiting the incredible Postojna Caves before crossing the Slovenia / Croatia border to Opatija on the coast. Stay two nights at the Hotel Miramar (Deluxe Room) / Hotel Milenij (Superior Sea View Room).

Day 6 Opatija

At leisure. Elegant Opatija developed into one of the most popular seaside resorts during the heyday of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. A rail link from Vienna increased the potential for visitors. Stylish villas line the coastal promenade and the town’s lovely location make it a pleasant place to relax for a few days. Impressive Villa Angiolina, one of the first villas, is now a museum of local history and is surrounded by beautiful gardens with exotic plants from around the world. With a mild climate, Opatija is both a summer and winter resort.

Day 7 Opatija to Split – 428 kms

A long day’s drive south to Split taking a short ferry ride to Pag Island and driving though the island’s rocky landscape and past enchanting views. Try the delicious Pag lamb and cheese. Stay two nights at the Antique Split Luxury Rooms (Deluxe Room) / Palace Judita Heritage Hotel (Deluxe Room with Balcony).

Day 8 Split

Full day city sightseeing tour. Split is the largest city on the Adriatic Coast and the second largest in Croatia. The Old Town is situated on a peninsula and its history of Roman, Venetian, Austrian, French, Italian and Yugoslav influence has left many well-preserved buildings and artefacts, including the stunning palace built for the Roman Emperor, Diocletian and the statue of medieval Croatian bishop Grgur Ninski (rubbing the toe brings good luck). With excellent restaurants and bars, Split serves as a destination alone or as a gateway to the Dalmatian Islands by ferry or flight. Split Archaeological Museum, created in 1820, is Croatia’s oldest and offers a comprehensive explanation of regional history and culture.

Day 9 Split to Hvar - by ferry

Take the ferry to Hvar Island. Stay three nights at the Hotel Podstine in Hvar town (Superior Exclusive King Room) / Heritage Villa Apolon in Stari Grad (Large Suite).

Day 10 Hvar To Day 11

At leisure. Hvar (from the Greek Pharos – lighthouse) was on the main trading route along the Mediterranean coast. The fertile inland area was prefect for growing grapes and herbs. Even now, the centre of the island abounds in the smells of lavender and rosemary. The coastline is sprinkled with hidden coves and beaches to enjoy Croatia’s warmest spot. The main towns are Hvar, a busy popular party town with lovely stone streets and elegant mansions and Stari Grad, the port of arrival from the mainland, site of many ancient cultural sights and the quieter of the two. Excursions depart frequently for the gorgeous Pakleni Islands.

Day 12 Hvar to Split – by ferrySplit to London

Morning take the ferry back to Split. You will be met and transferred to Split airport for the return flight to London.

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