Simple stays with essential amenities. Typically guesthouses, hostels or hotels rated below 3 stars — clean, no-frills, and great for value-conscious travelers.
Comfortable and reliable 3-star stays. Expect private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and solid amenities — a great balance between comfort and cost.
Upscale 4-5 star hotels and lodges. Enjoy high-end service, refined comfort, and premium locations — ideal for travelers seeking extra indulgence.
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, Lake Bohinj, La
Ljubljana, Bled, Lake Bohinj, Lake Bled, Brod, Julian Alps, Mostnica Gorge
Croatia, Slovenia, and Montenegro were beyond beautiful! Crystal-clear waters, charming old towns, and delicious seafood—this was one of our best trips yet.
Adriatic Cruise
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
8-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Dubrovnik, Ljubljana, Zagreb, Sp
Dubrovnik, Ljubljana, Zagreb, Split, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Opatija
Why settle for just one country when you can experience the essence of both the Balkans and the Greek Islands over 22 action-packed days? This unforgettable tour package begins and ends in Athens, taking you through a vibrant mix of cultures, landscapes, and historic treasures across Greece, Bosnia Herzegovina, Bulgaria, and beyond. Perfect for experienced travelers looking for moderate activity, this journey balances guided sightseeing with ample free time in gems like Budapest and Dubrovnik.
Tick off 22 must-see experiences, from the ancient wonders of Athens and the cliffside beauty of Santorini, to the lush waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Savor coastal flavors, lose yourself in the energy of Mykonos, and soak up a rich tapestry of traditions with the help of expert guides. The true USP? A comprehensive, expertly orchestrated adventure that lets you explore the Balkans’ diverse countries and the iconic Greek islands in one seamless, immersive trip—ideal for those who want to see it all without compromise.
Explorer
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
10-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Athens, Budapest, Belgrade, Sofi
Athens, Budapest, Belgrade, Sofia, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, Kalabaka, Ohrid, Tirana, Dubrovnik, Sarajevo, Plitvice Lakes, Ljubljana
Follow in the footsteps of the gladiators as you see the Colosseum in Rome, take in the regal history of the Habsburgs at Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna and see the Rhine Valley sights on the road to Königswinter during this 2-week guided tour. From the iconic attractions of Rome and the cultural gems of the Vatican, your expert-led voyage sets out across Europe, stopping for sunset cocktails and dinner in Venice, and sightseeing in the Slovenian capital, Ljubljana. In Vienna, enjoy the exclusive Insight Choice of Viennese Waltz dance lessons—set to the tunes of Mozart’s masterpieces, or sample sachertorte at a traditional Viennese cafe, washed down with a specially selected coffee. End your adventure with a private Rhine Castle visit paired with regional wines and a dinner in Amsterdam.
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
5-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Rome, Amsterdam, Lucerne, Stanse
Rome, Amsterdam, Lucerne, Stanserhorn, Konigswinter, London, Venice, Ljubljana, Vienna, Innsbruck
For those who crave meaningful travel experiences, the "Classic Balkans: Ljubljana to Sarajevo" tour package offers a 21-day journey through the heart of the Balkans—perfect for experienced travelers. Wander Slovenia’s lush national parks, marvel at Croatia’s historic wonders, and be swept away by Bosnia’s rich culture and hospitality. Easy scenic walks, UNESCO sites, and exquisite local cuisine are all part of the itinerary. The unique selling point? This trip’s expertly curated route showcases three countries’ best-kept secrets and timeless charm for a comprehensive Balkan exploration.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort, Villa
Age Range
12-100 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Ljubljana, Sarajevo, Sibenik, Ma
Ljubljana, Sarajevo, Sibenik, Makarska, Dubrovnik, Trebinje, Čitluk, Mostar, Portoroz, Bohinj Lake, Zagreb, Plitvicka Jezera
From emerald rivers to medieval towns, Slovenia’s treasures await on this eight-day private tour, perfect for young adults and experienced travelers seeking an active yet accessible getaway. Start in Ljubljana, Europe’s greenest capital, then venture to the alpine serenity of Lake Bled, the Venetian charm of Piran, and the awe-inspiring Postojna Caves.
Explore the heart of Triglav National Park, ascend Mt Vogel for panoramic views, and choose optional adventures like rafting the Soca River or soaring Europe’s renowned ziplines. Guided walking and biking tours blend seamlessly with opportunities to meet locals and discover Slovenian customs, offering genuine cultural connection alongside natural wonders.
All accommodations, transport, and meals are included, ensuring a stress-free experience. The USP: a balanced itinerary that combines Slovenia’s scenic beauty with immersive local interaction and flexible outdoor activities—creating lasting memories for every kind of traveler.
Journey through a tapestry of cultures, landscapes, and history with the 'Highlights of Croatia, Bosnia and Slovenia' tour. This 9-day city sightseeing trip is perfect for travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace and a diverse itinerary, taking you from the heart of Zagreb to the stunning Adriatic coast and the cultural richness of Slovenia.
Begin in Zagreb, Croatia’s elegant capital, where Austro-Hungarian architecture lines lively boulevards. Travel to Maglaj in Bosnia and Herzegovina, a town steeped in centuries of history. In Sarajevo, walk through the poignant Tunnel of Hope—a powerful symbol of resilience from the Bosnian War—before wandering the culturally diverse streets of Mostar and admiring the famed Stone Bridge.
Marvel at the natural beauty of Kravice Waterfalls, then soak up the medieval splendor of Dubrovnik, encircled by iconic stone walls. In Split, discover the ancient Diocletian’s Palace and enjoy breathtaking seascapes. Plitvice Lakes National Park dazzles with its turquoise lakes and cascading waterfalls, while Opatija offers dramatic coastal views.
Cross into Slovenia for a scenic boat ride on Lake Bled and explore Ljubljana’s artistic heart. In Maribor, experience the city’s Austrian influences before returning to Zagreb. The unique selling point of this tour is its seamless journey through three countries, combining history, nature, and culture in a single, unforgettable trip.
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
8-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Ljubljana, Zagreb, Sarajevo, Dub
Ljubljana, Zagreb, Sarajevo, Dubrovnik, Split, Opatija
Journey through Croatia, Slovenia and Italy on an intimate small-group exploration of the Adriatic. Stroll through Zagreb’s historic squares, cruise across Lake Bled in a traditional pletna boat and marvel at the vast karst formations of Postojna Cave. Discover Istria’s coastal gems — from the Roman heritage of Pula to the Venetian charm of Rovinj — before arriving in Venice, where a gondola ride through hidden canals brings your journey to a memorable close.
