Highlights of Slovenia and Croatian Istria

Day 1 – Arrival in Trieste (Italy)

Arrive at Venice, Treviso, or Trieste Airport and take a shared transfer to Trieste, an elegant port city on the Adriatic Sea. Enjoy free time to explore its charming streets, grand piazzas, and cafés reflecting Roman, Austro-Hungarian, and Mediterranean influences.

Overnight in Trieste.

Day 2 – Postojna Cave & Predjama Castle (Slovenia)

Begin the day at Postojna Cave, Europe’s largest show cave, exploring vast underground halls partly by electric train. Continue to the dramatic Predjama Castle, a Renaissance fortress built into a cliff face with secret passages and a storied history. Return to Trieste for a guided walking tour of its main squares, historic buildings, and waterfront promenade.

Overnight in Trieste.

Day 3 – Piran (Slovenia), Motovun & Opatija (Croatia)

Cross into Slovenia to visit Piran, a historic coastal town with narrow streets and Venetian architecture. Continue into Croatian Istria to the hilltop town of Motovun, famed for wine, truffles, and panoramic views of the Istrian countryside. Arrive in the seaside town of Opatija, a graceful resort town known for its elegant 19th-century villas, lush gardens, and the famous seaside promenade. Enjoy a relaxing evening strolling along the Adriatic and taking in the town’s refined atmosphere.

Overnight in Opatija.

Day 4 – Rovinj & Pula (Croatia)

Explore Rovinj, a picturesque fishing village with cobbled streets, pastel-hued houses, and a harbour lined with cafés and galleries. Wander through its narrow alleys up to the Church of St Euphemia, perched on a hill with sweeping views of the Adriatic. Continue to Pula, a historic city rich in Roman heritage, including the Pula Amphitheatre, Temple of Augustus, and Arch of the Sergii. Admire the blend of ancient architecture and lively modern life as you stroll through the historic centre.

Overnight in Opatija.

Day 5 – Plitvice Lakes & Zagreb (Croatia)

Travel inland to Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its waterfalls, terraced lakes, and forested trails. Continue to Zagreb, the Croatian capital, and enjoy an evening exploring its historic streets and lively squares.

Overnight in Zagreb.

Day 6 – Zagreb & Transfer to Ljubljana (Slovenia)

Enjoy a guided tour of Zagreb, visiting the Cathedral, St Mark’s Church, and Ban Jelačić Square, while learning about the city’s legends and architectural highlights. Spend the afternoon at leisure before transferring to Ljubljana, Slovenia’s charming capital.

Overnight in Ljubljana.

Day 7 – Bled & Ljubljana (Slovenia)

Visit Lake Bled and Bled Castle, perched on a cliff with sweeping views of the lake and Julian Alps. Take a traditional pletna boat to the island and ring the wishing bell at the baroque church. Return to Ljubljana for a guided city tour, including the Triple Bridge, Dragon Bridge, and Ljubljana Castle.

Overnight in Ljubljana.

Day 8 – Departure from Ljubljana

Breakfast and free time before your airport transfer.