A great way to experience Croatia. However, we feel that some of the optional experiences should be INCLUDED (specifically the lunch at the family-owned winery) and a little more time spent in the STON area would have been nice.
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.
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?
Stunning coastlines, historic cities, pristine national parks and some of the most delicious local cuisine your stomach will ever encounter – the Western Balkans have it all. And, this epic 29-day journey will show the best of it. Beginning in Budapest, which is also known as ‘the Pearl of the Danube’, you’ll have the chance to see a range of small towns, bright lights and natural wonders across Hungary, Serbia, Bosnia, Montenegro, Croatia and Slovenia. Your local leaders along the way will be able to give you insights into the different cultures you encounter, with a focus on the people, history and food.
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Hostel, Guest House
Age Range
12-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Budapest, Bled, Sarajevo, Niksic
Budapest, Bled, Sarajevo, Niksic, Kotor, Dubrovnik, Korcula Island, Hvar Island, Split, Zadar, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Zagreb, Ljubljana, Osijek, Novi Sad, Belgrade
Begin your Croatian journey in Zagreb, soaking in its European allure and visiting landmarks like the Church of St. Mark and the Cathedral. Continue to Split, pausing at the stunning Plitvice Lakes and historic Trogir. In Split, explore the Diocletian’s Palace before moving to Hvar, renowned for its nightlife and natural beauty. Discover Korčula’s medieval charm, and conclude your adventure in Dubrovnik, famed for its majestic city walls and rich heritage.
Explore Croatia, starting in Zagreb with its European charm. Travel to Split, stopping at the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes and historic Trogir. In Split, delve into Diocletian’s Palace before heading to Hvar for vibrant nightlife and scenic beauty. Move to Korčula, known for its medieval architecture. Conclude in Dubrovnik, with its majestic walls and rich history.
Discover the charm of Croatia, starting in Zagreb. Explore its vibrant cityscape, then journey to the elegant seaside town of Opatija. Traverse the Istrian peninsula, visiting historic Pula, picturesque Rovinj, and medieval Motovun. Marvel at the natural beauty of Plitvice Lakes and the historic sites of Trogir en route to Split. Experience the island allure of Hvar and Korčula, before concluding your trip in the stunning city of Dubrovnik.
This 12-day escorted group tour travels from Belgrade in Serbia to Zagreb, capital of Croatia. Along the way it discovers European gems including the Bosnian capital of Sarajevo, Kotor in Montenegro and Mostar, 'City of Bridges'. Ride a heritage train in the mountains of Zlatibor, explore Dubrovnik, Split and Sibenik in Croatia and enjoy a guided tour of Plitvice Lakes National Park before arriving in Zagreb.
Get ready to leave for the ultimate European expedition with this captivating Croatia vacation. You'll have the opportunity to witness some of the most stunning cities, picturesque coastlines, and remarkable attractions in the Balkans. Your adventure commences in Zagreb, Croatia's capital, renowned for its diverse array of museums, vibrant festivals, and charming cafes. Don't miss the chance to visit St. Mark's Church and admire the Zagreb Cathedral before your onward journey to Bled. Explore the wonders of Lake Bled, a pristine alpine gem, and the enchanting Bohinj Valley, nestled at the base of the Alps. Later, immerse yourself in the beauty of Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its glistening turquoise waterfalls, lush valleys, and unique flora and fauna. Next on your itinerary is Split, a captivating city on the Dalmatian Coast, where you'll be captivated by Diocletian's Palace, a remarkably preserved Roman architectural masterpiece dating back to 305 AD, and Jupiter's Temple, dedicated to the Roman deity. Your Croatian adventure concludes here!
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Croatia, Slovenia, and Montenegro. Begin in Zagreb, where the Gothic churches and vibrant squares await after which the Baroque charm of Ljubljana will amaze you. Discover the enchanting Lake Bled in Slovenia, with its emerald waters and scenic island church, surrounded by lush mountains. Travel to Croatia to experience the natural wonders of Plitvice National Park, with its cascading emerald lakes. Visit the historic cities of Zadar and Šibenik, and explore Split’s ancient Diocletian's Palace. Marvel at the walled beauty of Dubrovnik, known as the Pearl of the Adriatic, before venturing to Kotor, Montenegro’s stunning coastal gem. Conclude your adventure back in Dubrovnik, leaving with cherished memories of this enchanting region.
I enjoyed the variety of places we visited. I especially liked having a local guide at each location to learn about the history and culture of each place. The only regret for me was that we couldn’t spend more time in Lake Bled. I liked that we were able to take the boats over to the island, but I would have also enjoyed seeing a view of the lake from a higher vantage point to be able to see the entire lake with the island in the middle. Otherwise, I was fully pleased with the itinerary of the tour.