Luxury Nature & Culture in Croatia - 10 Days

Highlights

• Watch the sunset from the luxurious rooftop bar of Rovinj's Hotel Adriatic
• Hunt for the elusive truffle with a professional truffle hunter in the forests of Istria
• Visit Slovenia's medieval Predjama Castle, built into the mouth of a clifftop cave
• Float across the silent Alpine waters of Lake Bled in a colorful "pletna" boat
• Cycle the walking trails of the picturesque Dalmatian island of Hvar

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Rovinj, Truffle Hunting & Hilltop Towns Excursion

Dobro došli! Welcome to Croatia! Your flight arrives in Pula, where you'll meet your private driver and transfer to Rovinj, a charming port city on the Istrian peninsula's west coast. Upon arrival, check in at the Hotel Adriatic, an artsy boutique hotel in the historic center. Here, you'll find intimate rooms and suites decorated with tasteful local art and offering views of the island of St. Catherine, Rovinj's Old Town, or the main square. The hotel's on-site restaurants serve contemporary cuisine inspired by the French Riviera, and the rooftop bar is the perfect spot to watch the sunset after a day of exploring. 

After settling in, experience one of Istria's most popular pastimes—truffle hunting! The hills of Istria are blanketed with damp and dark woods, the perfect environment for the elusive truffle. Your driver will transport you to the town of Buzet, where your privately guided tour pairs you with a professional truffle hunter, seeking out truffles in the Mediterranean forests. Meet the dogs trained to hunt this delicacy, tromping through the forest with them as they search out their fungal prey. After what's sure to be a successful hunt, visit a nearby restaurant to enjoy local wines and a truffle-themed meal.

Later today, learn more about Croatia's history with a visit to the hilltop town of Grožnjan—renowned for its many artists, with more than 20 galleries and some lively annual festivals, including a jazz festival in July. Or, visit Motovun—an enchanting walled town cresting a 908-foot-high (277 m) hill, originally fortified by the Venetians in the 14th century. Admire the astounding views of Gothic and Romanesque buildings from the top of town. Another well-known festival, the Motovun Film Festival, takes place here each summer.

Day 2: Discover Brijuni National Park, Dinner at Restaurant Puntulina

Immerse yourself in nature with a full-day privately guided tour of Brijuni National Park, a string of Adriatic islands about 12 miles (20 km) from Rovinj. Meet your guide and travel to Fažana, where you'll ferry to Veliki Brijun, the park's largest island. Walk along one of the multiple trails, rent a bike, or make your way straight to the beach. Then, hop on a miniature train for a tour of Roman ruins, a Byzantine fortress, and a safari park that's home to elephants, zebras, ostriches, and peacocks. You'll also see the infamous White Villa, the former home of communist leader Josip Broz Tito. 

This afternoon, ferry back to Fažana and return to Rovinj, where you can relax at the hotel or explore some of the city on your own. Save your appetite for dinner, however, as you'll be dining at the celebrated Restaurant Puntulina tonight. Founded in 2004 within the former Pellizzer family home, the restaurant focuses on innovative local cuisine with a distinct Italian influence. Embrace the Mediterranean charm and flavors, sampling fresh seafood, fine wine, and delectable desserts, all accompanied by gorgeous sea views. 

Day 3: Transfer to Ljubljana (Slovenia), Visit Postojna Cave & Predjama Castle

You're off to visit Croatia's next-door neighbor, the picturesque country of Slovenia. Meet your private driver in the morning and travel for two hours, crossing the border to Ljubljana, Slovenia's capital, with a rich history and cultural heritage. Upon arrival, check in at your accommodation, the Zlata Ladjica Boutique Hotel, a 5-star retreat steps away from the famed Ljubljana Castle. Rooms here feature understated, elegant decor with luxury linens, soaking tubs, and city or river views. The hotel's amenities also include a wellness spa and an on-site gastropub.

Take some time to rest and regroup, then head out on a privately guided tour of one of Slovenia's most impressive sites, Postojna Cave Park. Visit the underground world of Postojna Cave, a karst cave that stretches more than 15 miles (24 km) and is the second-longest cave system in Slovenia. Ride the underground train to witness this fascinating subterranean realm, stopping to see the resident "baby dragons" (unique blind cave salamanders) and walking through areas such as Great Mountain, the Concert Hall, and the Brilliant Passage. 

Continue to Predjama Castle, a medieval castle built into the mouth of a clifftop cave. Inside the world's largest cave castle, you'll see walls hewed straight out of the rock. Learn about the legendary Erazem Predjamski, Slovenia's own Robin Hood, and how he was under siege in the castle for a year until his death when one of his trusted servants betrayed him. Then, return to Ljubljana and try the local golaž (goulash meat stew) for dinner before an evening stroll along the river.

Day 4: Day Trip to Lake Bled & Bled Castle, Transfer to Zagreb

This morning, meet your driver for a 40-minute trip to Bled, a quaint town on the shores of Lake Bled and at the edge of the Julian Alps. On a privately guided tour around the lake, see the famed Bled Castle (the oldest in Slovenia) perched on the clifftop above while your guide explains its cultural significance. Stop along the way to admire the lake, its picturesque island, and the colorful flat-bottomed pletna boats that take visitors silently across the lake.

You'll have the option of hopping aboard one of these unusual boats, operated by a single rower with two long oars, making for a peaceful trip across the water. Stop at Bled Island to see the historic church there, then visit Bled Castle on the clifftop and the castle museum for insight into the area's history and sweeping lake views. End your tour at a local café, sampling Bled's specialty dessert, kremna rezina, a vanilla and custard cream cake.

Then, relax as you travel three hours with your driver to Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. This thriving metropolis is known for its Austro-Hungarian architecture, historic Upper and Lower Town districts, and lively, colorful atmosphere. Arrive at the Amadria Park Capital Hotel, a luxury accommodation near the main square and the city's Green Horseshoe string of parks. Rooms and suites blend traditional decor with Art Deco flair, and you'll have options for city or atrium views, private balconies, and amenities that include a winter garden, restaurant, and lobby bar. Unwind at the hotel tonight, or step out to see some of the city. 

Day 5: City Highlights Walking Tour, Foodie Tour of Zagreb

Begin your exploration of Zagreb today with a privately guided two-hour city tour. Meet your guide and begin a winding walk through the narrow streets of Gornji Grad (Upper Town), a historic neighborhood stretching between the two hills of Kaptol and Gradec and the oldest part of the city. Visit the bustling outdoor Dolac Market to sample fresh produce and other treats and pop into St. Mary's Cathedral, located next door.

Pass through the historic Stone Gate and continue to St. Mark's Church, with its famed multicolored roof and Lotrščak Tower, from which the Grič cannon is fired daily at noon. Your guide will tell you stories and legends about the region's history along the way. The tour culminates with a funicular ride down to Donji Grad (Lower Town), where you'll find parks and boulevards such as the Lenuci Horseshoe and the neo-Baroque Croatian National Theater. 

Later today, discover not only the spectacular cuisine of Croatia's continental region but also the flavors of the Dalmatian Coast and hills of Istria. Meet your guide and head out on a three-hour private food tour, starting in Zagreb's central square, Trg Bana Josipa Jelačića. Make your way around the city core, satisfying your stomachs with assorted local fare. Try dishes such as sarma (cabbage rolls) or zagorski strukli, a delicious pastry prepared with savory or sweet ingredients, while your guide explains the traditions and significance of each dish.

Day 6: Guided Tour of Plitvice Lakes National Park, Transfer to Split

Spend a full day exploring Plitvice Lakes National Park, a must-visit highlight for any traveler to Croatia. After breakfast, travel for two hours with your private driver to this UNESCO-protected area. The pristine reserve encompasses 74,000 acres (30,000 ha), with a chain of 16 terraced lakes and more than 90 cascading waterfalls flowing into a limestone canyon. With wooden walkways for easy access and several hiking trails, you'll join a private guide to explore the lakes surrounded by beech and pine forests.

Follow your guide through dense greenery, walking along the trails of your choice past emerald green and blue travertine lakes as you discover an abundance of fish, birds, and other wildlife. Learn about the park's ecosystems and history as you walk, and finish with a boat ride that takes you across crystal-clear lakes and right up to cascading waterfalls. 

Have lunch at the park, then continue for 3.5 hours to Split, the second-largest city in Croatia and the largest in the region of Dalmatia. Split offers a wealth of history and culture, with cobblestone streets, Roman and Venetian architecture, and panoramic sea views. Arrive at the Cornaro, a 5-star hotel just steps from Split's most popular sightseeing spots. Rooms here offer a timeless grandeur, with luxury furnishings and options for sea or city views, not to mention a fabulous rooftop pool and bar. Your evening is free to enjoy dinner at the hotel or a local restaurant in town. 

Day 7: Day Trip to the Towns & Villages on the Island of Hvar

After breakfast, meet your guide and catch a one-hour ferry to the island of Hvar, known for its beautiful beaches, top-notch restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. Spend the day getting to know the island with a local guide, visiting the town of Jelsa, where you can stroll the main square and grab a coffee at one of the many cafés, and Stari Grad, one of Europe's oldest towns. Discover Stari Grad's Riva promenade, lined with centuries-old Venetian buildings, colorful shops, and sea views at every turn.

Explore lesser-known sites around the island with your guide, who will curate the tour to include specific places you'd like to visit or activities you'd like to try. You can rent bikes, visit Tvrdalj Palace, once the home of Croatian poet Petar Hektorović, or hike up Stari Grad's Glavica Hill for views of the whole countryside. End the day with lunch at a local konoba (tavern), then enjoy some free time in Hvar Town before returning to Split by ferry. 

Day 8: Ston Bay Oyster Tasting, Transfer to Dubrovnik

For the final leg of your trip, you'll travel to Dubrovnik, one of Europe's most ancient fortress cities. The city's long and storied history is showcased by its historic Old Town, an ancient district of well-preserved buildings surrounded by massive stone walls. After breakfast, meet your private driver for a scenic two-hour drive south along the coast, stopping at the settlement of Ston, famed for its 14th-century fortified walls and the oyster farms and salt beds of Ston Bay.

Take some time to walk around town, then head out on a boat to savor oysters fresh from the crystal-clear waters, along with a glass of wine, and learn firsthand from the skipper how these delicacies are grown and harvested. Enjoy a firsthand look at the farming process in the bay, which is an unusual mix of freshwater and seawater—an essential component to growing the perfect oyster. As a result, Ston oysters are considered some of the best in the world.

Return to shore in time to sample wine at a nearby vineyard before continuing the drive to Dubrovnik and your accommodation at the Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik, a 5-star retreat carved into the cliffs above Miramare Bay. Enjoy expansive views from the floor-to-ceiling windows, rooms with a clean, contemporary style, and an on-site spa and restaurant. Tonight, relax at the hotel and take advantage of its many amenities, or explore more of the city on your own. 

Day 9: Boating Excursion to the Elafiti Islands

This morning, embark on an exclusive full-day boat trip to visit the tranquil Elafiti Islands, or Elaphites, an archipelago of 13 islands just off the coast of Dubrovnik. Along the way, you'll stop to swim and snorkel in the hidden coves and peaceful waters of the Adriatic Sea and visit the three main islands (the only ones inhabited), which all offer great swimming beaches and a very relaxed vibe.

Visit Koločep, the smallest of the main islands and closest to Dubrovnik. This "car-free" island has multiple walking trails that take you through restful green forests and along quiet beaches. With two villages on the island, both within walking distance of each other, you can sit down for a relaxed lunch here or check out some historic buildings, including the pre-Romanesque St. Anthony and St. Nicholas churches.

Next, you'll stop at the island of Lopud, where you can spend time on Šunj Beach, a peaceful spot with calm, shallow waters. Just above the beach, make the easy hike to the 15th-century church of Our Lady of Šunj, which has an unusual wooden Renaissance-Baroque altar. End the day on Šipan, where you'll find more beaches, restaurants, and bike rentals to cruise around the island before returning to Dubrovnik in the early evening. As the sun sets, wander the Old Town's alleys and choose a restaurant for a delicious seafood dinner on your last night.

Day 10: Depart Dubrovnik

Your luxury Croatia trip ends today. Meet your private driver at your hotel for a 30-minute transfer to the airport. Safe travels home or to your next destination! 

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