This eight-day, private tour is a great combination of guided trips to Slovenian towns and cities, such as Ljubljana, the greenest capital in Europe; the alpine town of Bled; and medieval Piran, a city with a strong Venetian influence. Additionally, you will also get the chance to see beautiful alpine glacier lakes, gorgeous mountains, emerald rivers, some of the biggest caves in the world and the blue Adriatic.
Join us as we explore the best that Slovenia has to offer while enjoying opportunities to hike or bike through its beautiful landscape. Start your trip from Ljubljana. Visit the famous Postojna Caves and soak up the beauty of Lake Bled. Drive to the heart of Triglav National Park, where Bohinj Lake is located, and ascend to the top of Mt Vogel to enjoy the scenery. You also have the option to go rafting in the Soca River or experience one of most remarkable ziplines in Europe.
With our knowledgeable guides by your side, you will get the chance to meet the locals and learn more about their customs, traditions and way of living. For more details, please scroll down.
I had done one trip previously – Amalfi coast hiking, fall 2023 – with EXPLORE. I was so impressed I asked my excellent guide, Pete, what else he would recommend knowing my abilities and interests. He immediately recommended the Slovenia trip, and it actually was on my list of places to visit. He had apparently set the trip up about seven years ago and was very familiar with it.
I have been in 50 countries to date - some several times- and Slovenia is now in my top five and I am already planning my return for next May.
We had a lovely small group, being the first of these hikes of the season, hailing from Canada, Spain, Australia, and the UK.
The accommodation, staff, management, and food at Art Hotel Kristal were A+ – and I especially loved and took advantage of the options of the sauna and cold plunge, Ayurvedic massages with the wonderful Bhatri, chocolate tasting with the owner, Alenka, and a fantastic wine tasting with her son, Jan. I went home with a lovely assortment of chocolates and also a wonderful bottle of wine that I will try to hold onto for a few years until it is optimal to drink.
The hikes were not difficult at all, but I found that I did feel like I got a good amount of exercise by the end of the day. I spent my free day doing a mountain bike ride. The whole area around Lake Bohinj is stunning and there are so many activities that one can partake in, as well as really yummy local restaurants close by the hotel. I loved that the hotel offered a pre-fixe three course menu for hotel guests for only €25 on the nights that were not included with the hike. An incredible bargain given the quality of the food, as with almost all of the food we had in Slovenia, it was locally sourced and delicious. I am not typically a meat eater, but I had the venison twice – locally sourced, and wild – and it was by far the best I have ever had.
I would definitely stay at this hotel when I return to the area. I would strongly encourage others to spend some time in Ljubljana – either before or after the trip. A beautiful city a two hour bus ride awaythat is just the right size and full of so much to offer. Next time I am going to see a lot more of this country – it is half the size of Switzerland, but the variety of the terrain and ecosystems is quite impressive. Also, to be noted is that English is widely spoken and children start in grade 3, learning this second language. The Slovenians couldn’t have been nicer and more helpful everywhere I went. What can I say?? Get yourself to Slovenia before it is overrun: safe, clean, and green – a beautiful country of farmers, foragers, wine makers, and beekeepers. Also note that they have some fantastic fly fishing there as well as mountain and road biking – very cycling friendly. After all, it is the country of Pogacar.
Trekking and HikingWaterfalls
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Hut
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Ljubljana, Bled, Bohinj Lake, Sa
Ljubljana, Bled, Bohinj Lake, Savica Waterfall, Lake Bled, Brod, Julian Alps
Lazr so knowledgeable about all seven countries he should be teaching upper level university courses. He’s dedicated and streetwise, particularly to your benefit when it comes to getting low prices for tour expenses. He should be given an immediate raise and be considered for future promotion.
Train tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort, Sleeper Train
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Ljubljana, Pristina, Belgrade, N
Ljubljana, Pristina, Belgrade, Novi Sad, Skopje, Lake Ohrid, Mavrovo National Park, Bled, Zagreb, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Sarajevo, Mostar, Tivat
Our fabulous tour guide led us through the charming cities and towns of Croatia and Slovenia. Highlights included Lake Bled, the Postojna caves, Plitvice lakes/falls, and Dubrovnik. The pace was well planned and there was free time for us to explore on our own. All our hotels were very nice. My only negative would be the size of the group; at 48, it was too large for walking tours and getting on/off the bus, but everyone was very prompt.
Local culture
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
5-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Dubrovnik, Zagreb, Bled, Opatija
Dubrovnik, Zagreb, Bled, Opatija, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Split
From storied cities to glittering coastlines, uncover the best of Italy, Slovenia and Croatia on a 23-day Premium adventure. Travel through the rustic heart of Tuscany, explore the wonders of Venice, Pisa’s Leaning Tower and visit one of the Seven Wonders of the World in Rome. Discover Lake Bled, the underground world of the Postojna Caves and the spectacular Plitvice Lakes National Park. Take in ancient riches on Korcula island and stroll the legendary streets of Dubrovnik. Throw in expert local leaders, plenty of sunshine and some of Europe’s best food and you have an adventure to remember.
Art and architecture
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Dubrovnik, Rome, Bled, Rovinj, P
Dubrovnik, Rome, Bled, Rovinj, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Zadar, Split, Korčula, San Gimignano, Florence, Venice
This trip was exactly what I needed. After years of family holidays and work trips, doing something like this — just me, my wife, a car, and no daily schedule, felt like a throwback to how we used to travel.
The best part? We weren’t herded around or stuck waiting for a big group. We just got in the car and drove. Some days we were super active, other days we just wandered and sat in cafes.
Croatia’s charm is obvious, but Slovenia really caught us off guard. The nature is pristine, the towns feel like no less than a fairytale, and even the touristy places don’t feel overwhelming. Also, it’s worth saying the roads were great, parking wasn’t a nightmare, and the car rental process was straightforward. That stuff matters when you’re not 25 anymore.
If you want a bit of culture, nature, good food, and a proper break from the usual routine this is your tour. We’re already talking about doing another self-drive next year. Portugal, maybe?
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
Discover a piece of paradise as you dive into the best of Slovenia and Croatia on a 16-day Premium adventure. Explore the glittering canals of Venice, the still waters of Lake Bled, the underground world of the Postojna Caves and the caves and waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Go beneath the surface of Split and Dubrovnik, get away from the modern world and in with the locals and soak up ancient riches on the historic island of Korcula. From sun-soaked beaches to fantastic local wine, you’re never far from a good time on the Adriatic coast.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Dubrovnik, Venice, Split, Lastov
Dubrovnik, Venice, Split, Lastovo Island, Korcula Island, Bled, Rovinj, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Zadar
Spectacular natural beauty and fascinating cultural heritage go hand in hand in Slovenia and Croatia. This nine-day Premium journey will take you from the glittering canals of Venice to the beaming waters of Lake Bled and the underground world of the Postojna Caves. Ride the cable car up Mt Vogel for views over Lake Bohinj, and appreciate the caves and waterfalls abound in Plitvice Lakes National Park, an amazing UNESCO World Heritage site. Indulge in the epicurean delights like truffles, wine and Adriatic sunshine and let this part of the world enchant you on a small-group adventure.
Walking tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Split, Venice, Bled, Pula, Plitv
Split, Venice, Bled, Pula, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Zadar
Prepare for an incredible trip as you leave for a journey across Croatia's gorgeous landscapes, where you'll discover some of Europe's most mesmerizing azure waters, unspoiled white sand beaches, and intriguing medieval wonders! Your tour begins in Zagreb, Croatia's dynamic capital, where you'll discover a plethora of historical museums, exciting festivals, and small cafés. Next, travel to Bled, where you'll be captivated by the pristine beauty of Lake Bled, a gleaming alpine jewel, and the enchanting Bohinj Valley tucked at the base of the mighty Alps. After that, visit Plitvice National Park, which is home to 16 emerald-colored lakes, hidden caves, and many stunning waterfalls. Continuing your journey, arrive in Split, a town steeped in ancient history, where you may visit the renowned Diocletian Palace. Your trip will then take you to Dubrovnik, regarded as the "Pearl of the Adriatic." Enjoy wandering through the fortified city and seeing prominent landmarks like the Rector's Palace and the Cathedral. Finally, return to Dubrovnik to conclude your unforgettable vacation. Depart with treasured memories that you will carry with you when you return home!
CruiseCity sightseeing
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Ship Cabin, Resort
Age Range
8-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Dubrovnik, Zagreb, Bisevo, Hvar
Dubrovnik, Zagreb, Bisevo, Hvar Island, Korčula, Slano, Bled, Plitvice, Split, Trogir
Begin your unforgettable journey in Zagreb, Croatia’s vibrant capital, where historic architecture and lively street scenes welcome you. After a guided exploration of the city’s Upper Town, travel across the border to Slovenia, visiting the charming capital of Ljubljana with its colorful markets and unique bridges, before continuing to the picturesque alpine town of Bled, nestled beside a stunning glacial lake. Next, return to Croatia and venture underground at the Postojna Caves, marvel at the seaside charm of Opatija, and then immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. From there, head south to Split for a deep dive into Roman history at Diocletian’s Palace. Your adventure continues aboard a deluxe small ship as you cruise the sparkling Adriatic Sea. Begin with Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” where ancient walls and marble streets set the scene. Cruise to idyllic islands including Mljet, Kor?ula, Hvar, and Vis—each offering a unique blend of history, nature, and culture. Highlights include oyster tasting in Ston, exploring the magical Blue Cave on Biševo (weather permitting), and discovering the timeless charm of island villages. Conclude your voyage with visits to Bra? and Trogir, sampling traditional olive oil and strolling through medieval streets before returning to Split for a final look at this coastal gem.
Sightseeing Tours
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Ship Cabin, Resort
Age Range
8-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Dubrovnik, Zagreb, Korčula, Puči
Dubrovnik, Zagreb, Korčula, Pučišća, Split, Hvar, Mljet National Park, Bled, Plitvice
Embrace the cultural, culinary and natural delights of Italy, Slovenia and Croatia on a 16-day Premium adventure. Travel through the rustic heart of Tuscany, explore the wonders of Venice’s Piazza San Marco and Pisa’s Leaning Tower and visit the home of a Nobleman in Rome with an expert local leader. Discover the waters of Lake Bled and the underground world of the Postojna Caves. Ride the cable car up Mt Vogel for views over Lake Bohinj and appreciate the caves and waterfalls in Plitvice Lakes National Park. Coloured by sunshine and flavoured with local wine, this pocket of Europe is a joy to explore.
Culture
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Split, Rome, Bled, Rovinj, Plitv
Split, Rome, Bled, Rovinj, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Zadar, Chianti, San Gimignano, Florence, Venice