Alps to the Adriatic
Touring
Days 1 and 2: Zagreb
The most fascinating aspect of Zagreb is its blatant Austro-Hungarian veneer set amongst a country full of quaint coastal villages. This modern city represents the heart of Croatia, pumping resources to all corners of the country. Highlights of the tour in Zagreb include a visit to Gornji Grad, the city’s historic Upper Town. Here we will experience a private tour of the Mimara Gallery and its extensive collection of art from around the world with the museum curator. In the evening, if scheduling permits, we will enjoy a thrilling performance at the Croatian National Theater.
Meals: Breakfast daily, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Days 3 and 4: Bled and Ljubljana, Slovenia
As we travel through the northern Croatian countryside we will stop for a tour of the Mokrice Castle’s wine cellar by its own sommelier before arriving in the alpine village of Bled. A boat ride on the majestic Lake Bled takes us to the Church of Assumption which is set atop a small island in the middle of the lake and is said to be Bled’s most alluring sight. We will see Bled Castle before traveling to Ljubljana.
Meals: Breakfast daily, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Day 5: Istria
The Istrian Peninsula, famous for its olive groves and vineyards, is relatively unknown in Croatia. During our time here, we will climb the steep hilltop in Motovun for magnificent views of the countryside, witness a truffle hunting demonstration in Livade before feasting on a lunch of truffle specialties at the famous Zigante Restaurant and tour the cobblestone streets of Rovinj. Our tour will continue with a visit to the famous Roman Amphitheater in Pula. We end the day with a special wine and olive oil tasting at a local family winery. Olive oil is a staple in the diet of a Croat and we will sample the best Croatia has to offer.
Meals: Breakfast daily, 1 Lunch
Days 6 through 8: Split and Brac
We travel now to Croatia’s dazzling Dalmatian Coast. After a short stop in the town of Zadar, we arrive in Split. In Split we will explore the historic district including the Diocletian Palace complex, have a VIP tour of the Mestrovic Gallery by the museum curator, and witness a moving performance by a traditional Croatian a capella group. On our last day, we will travel to the island of Brac, a perfect example of Adriatic island life. We will visit the small, quaint town of Skrip before arriving in Bol on the far side of the island. Bol houses Croatia’s most famous beach, Zlatni Rat (The Golden Cape). This well-known beach changes its shape as the wind blows. The late afternoon brings us to a 15th century Dominican monastery housing an extensive collection of exquisite religious artifacts, relics and paintings including Tintoretto’s famous Madonna and Child with Saints.
Meals: Breakfast daily, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Days 9 through 11: Dubrovnik
Southern Dalmatia is the most beautiful area along the Adriatic Coast. Rich vegetation, uninhabited islands, white pebble beaches and crystal clear water make this region unforgettable. On our journey towards Dubrovnik we will explore the ancient archeological site of Narona, take a boat safari along the Norin River, and enjoy an oyster tasting on the Peljesac Peninsula. While in the enchanting city of Dubrovnik, we will walk the charming streets of the historic center and celebrate the culmination of our fascinating journey with a special farewell dinner; a perfect end to the trip of a lifetime.
Meals: Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
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