The Undiscovered Adriatic Coast
Discover the hidden gems of the Adriatic, from Venice’s timeless canals and Trieste’s grand piazzas to Ljubljana’s fairytale charm and the shimmering lakes of Bled and Plitvice. Cruise to idyllic Croatian islands, savour Istrian wines and truffles, and explore Zagreb’s lively streets and unique museums. With a perfect balance of iconic landmarks, breathtaking nature, and authentic gastronomy, this journey reveals the rich cultures and landscapes of Italy, Slovenia, and Croatia on an unforgettable Adriatic adventure.
days 1-2
Venice & Iconic Landmarks
Arrive in magical Venice and enjoy a private transfer from the airport to your hotel. After time to settle in, enjoy a welcome dinner at a traditional trattoria, sampling classic Venetian flavours. The next day begins with a guided walking tour through winding alleys and across bustling piazzas, including St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and a visit to a Murano glass workshop by private boat. The afternoon is free to explore — perhaps a gondola ride or simply relaxing in a historic café.
days 3-4
Prosecco Hills & Trieste’s Waterfront Charm
Depart Venice for the rolling hills of the Prosecco region, where you’ll visit two family-run wineries for tastings and a light picnic-style lunch with local cicchetti. Continue to Trieste, Italy’s cosmopolitan port city, and enjoy an evening stroll along the grand waterfront with views of Miramare Castle. The following morning, discover Trieste’s mix of Italian, Austrian, and Slavic heritage on a guided walking tour of Piazza Unità d’Italia, the Roman Theatre, and the elegant coffeehouses that define the city’s character.
Why not include a hands-on cooking workshop where guests learn to prepare regional specialties that reflect the city’s unique heritage.
insider knowledge: Trieste
days 5-6
Ljubljana and Bled
Cross into Slovenia and arrive in Ljubljana, a charming capital of leafy boulevards and riverside cafés. A guided orientation walk reveals highlights such as the Triple Bridge, Preseren Square, and the funicular ride up to Ljubljana Castle, with time to explore its chapel, museum, and towers. The following day, venture to Lake Bled, where a traditional Pletna boat carries you to the island church. Enjoy a light lakeside picnic lunch and take time to soak in the fairytale setting of alpine peaks, emerald waters, and medieval castles.
days 7-8
Opatija & Northern Islands
Travel south to Opatija, a charming seaside resort once favoured by Austro-Hungarian nobility. Settle into your hotel before embarking on a half-day cruise to nearby islands such as Krk or Cres, pausing for a swim in hidden coves and a relaxed lunch. The next day brings an authentic Istrian adventure: head inland for truffle hunting in the forests near Motovun or Livade, followed by tastings of the region’s prized delicacies. Together, these experiences blend the Adriatic’s coastal charm with the rich flavours of Istria’s countryside.
Enjoy a short guided walk or cycle along the heritage Parenzana route, a scenic trail through Istrian vineyards, olive groves, and charming villages, offering a unique perspective of the region’s landscapes and history.
insider knowledge: Opatija
day 9
Plitvice Lakes National Park
Journey inland to Plitvice Lakes, where wooden walkways weave between shimmering turquoise lakes and cascading waterfalls in one of Europe’s most breathtaking natural settings. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site at a leisurely pace, with time to marvel at its 16 terraced lakes before continuing toward Zagreb, where due to today’s long hours the group will enjoy a dinner at a carefully selected hotel.
days 10-11
Zagreb
The next morning, a guided tour reveals Zagreb’s highlights such as the Gothic Cathedral, colourful St. Mark’s Square, and the cobbled lanes of the Upper Town. Visit the acclaimed Museum of Broken Relationships and savour a farewell dinner featuring folklore music and hearty local cuisine. The next day brings the journey to an end with a transfer to Zagreb Airport,leaving you with lasting memories of an Adriatic journey filled with culture, landscapes, and authentic flavours.
Inclusions
- Ground transportation throughout
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Welcome dinner at traditional trattoria in Venice
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Light picnic lunch in Prosecco region (with tastings)
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Light picnic lunch at Lake Bled
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Lunch onboard island cruise
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Dinner at hotel after Plitvice (1)
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Farewell dinner in Zagreb with folklore music
Accommodation in 4 star hotels
- Venice – Staycity Venice Mestre
- Trieste – NH Trieste
- Ljubljana – Best Western
- Slon – Premier Hotel Slon
- Opatija – Grand Hotel Adriatic
- Zagreb – Hilton Garden Inn Zagreb
Admissions to
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St. Mark’s Basilica – entrance
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Doge’s Palace – entrance
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Murano glass workshop (private boat access & visit)
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Visit to two Prosecco wineries + tastings + light picnic lunch
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Ljubljana Castle – funicular + entrance (chapel, museum, towers)
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Pletna boat ride to Bled Island + island church visit
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Half-day island cruise (e.g., Krk or Cres) + swim stop + relaxed lunch onboard
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Truffle hunting experience in Istria + tastings
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Plitvice Lakes National Park – entrance
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Museum of Broken Relationships – entrance
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Guided walking tour in Venice (St. Mark’s, Doge’s Palace area)
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Guided walking tour of Trieste (Piazza Unità d’Italia, Roman Theatre, historic cafés)
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Guided orientation walk of Ljubljana
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Guided Zagreb sightseeing tour (Cathedral, St. Mark’s Square, Upper Town)