Northern Italy, Slovenia, Croatia Small Group Tour; Venice to Split 9nts (Fridays)

Activity Level: 1
Comfort: 4
Departs From: Venice
Location: Venice, Ljubljana, Motovun, Opatija, Split
Duration: 10 days
Availability: FRIDAYS, May - September
CLICK FOR PRICING / DEPARTURES

Activity Level: 1
Comfort: 4
Departs From: Venice
Location: Venice, Ljubljana, Motovun, Opatija, Split
Duration: 10 days
Availability: FRIDAYS, May - September
CLICK FOR PRICING / DEPARTURES

Highlights

Maximum 20 passengers
Small boutique style tour with picturesque scenery and great food
Savour a unique wine tasting experience at the Poli Grappa Museum in Bassano del Grappa
Take in the scenery on a traditional pletna boat across Lake Bled in Slovenia
Train ride through Postojna Cave
Visit Smiljan, birthplace of Nikola Tesla
Explore the beauty of Plitvice National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Book now (obligation free) pay later

10 days from Venice, Lake Bled, Radovljica, Ljubljana, Opatija, Motovun, Rovinj, Plitvice Lakes, Smiljan, Zadar and to Split

Travel from plunging gorges to soaring mountains.
Discover cliff-top fortresses and Riviera-style villages.
Taste wines and gourmet chocolates, among countless local specialties.
This journey through Italy, Slovenia and Northern Croatia captures the beautiful diversity of these unforgettable countries.
Including half-board and sightseeing
Maximum 20 passengers

Itinerary

Open age Small Group Escorted Coach Tour (up to 20 passengers) conducted in English. Solo travellers must book their own room for solo use.

Other Small Group Tours:
https://discovercroatia.com.au/tours/small-group-tours/

Not all departures are guaranteed, so please check with us before booking other arrangements.

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INCLUSIONS AND FULL ITINERARY:
10 days from Venice, Lake Bled, Radovljica, Ljubljana, Opatija, Motovun, Rovinj, Plitvice Lakes, Smiljan, Zadar and to Split

INCLUDED:
• 9 nights in boutique accommodation
• Experienced English-speaking Driver and Tour Leader
• Premium mini-coach transportation
• 2 wine tastings
• Local guide in Lake Bled
• Daily European-style breakfasts x 9 (B), 2 lunches (L), 3 evening meals (D)
• Entrance included to all attractions in the itinerary, including: Plitvice Lakes National Park, Bled Castle

NOT INCLUDED:
• Meals not listed
• Tips/gratuities

ITINERARY:

DAY 1 | VENICE (D)
Welcome to Venice – the magnificent floating city boasting unparalleled elegance, grandeur and romance. Meet your travel companions and Tour Leader at the hotel, before settling into a delicious welcome meal at a local restaurant. Saluti! Accommodation: Hotel Ca’ dei Conti (or similar)

DAY 2 | VENICE – BASSANO DEL GRAPPA (B)
After breakfast, we’ll board the mini-coach and set a course for our first stop – Maser, where a wine tasting session at the historic Villa di Maser winery awaits us. Grapes from this ancient winery are grown in 33 hectares of carefully selected, eco-friendly vineyards – and our palettes are sure to appreciate the care and attention placed in each bottle. Then: onwards to Bassano del Grappa, a historic town that’s famous for its 13th century Ponte Vecchio. After getting better acquainted on an orientation tour, we’ll enjoy some free time for lunch. Later, we’ll pay a visit to the Poli Grappa Museum – where we’ll learn about the history of the local tipple and enjoy a tasting, of course! This evening will be ours to explore Bassano Del Grappa at our own pace or put our feet up back at the hotel. Accommodation: Belvedere Hotel (or similar)

DAY 3 | BASSANO DEL GRAPPA – ROVERETO – BASSANO DEL GRAPPA (B,L)
Today we’ll delve into Rovereto’s fascinating history on a locally guided walking tour. As we go, we’ll have the opportunity to visit the imposing Rovereto Castle, Italian Historical War Museum and the Bell of the Fallen – which commemorates those who fell in the Great War in Trentino. Cast with the bronze of all nations who participated in World War I, it’s 100 tolls at dusk are a testimony to world peace. Following our tour, we’ll enjoy a sumptuous included lunch at a local restaurant – before returning to Bassano Del Grappa for an evening spent at our leisure.
Accommodation: Belvedere Hotel (or similar)

DAY 4 | BASSANO DEL GRAPPA – BELLUNO – LAKE BLED (B)
Before we bid farewell to Italy, we’ll make one more stop in picturesque Belluno. A historic old town with breathtaking views and Renaissance-era buildings – we’ll enjoy an orientation tour with our Tour Leader before lunching at our leisure. Then: we’ll cross the border into spectacular Slovenia. Enjoy the scenic back roads as we travel to the enchanting Lake Bled region – our home for the next two nights. This evening, we’ll be free to spend some time relaxing before tomorrow’s trip to the iconic lake. Accommodation: Triglav Hotel (or similar)

DAY 5 | LAKE BLED (B,L)
First on today’s agenda: we’ll enjoy a guided tour of mesmerising Bled Castle. One of the oldest castles in Slovenia, our guide will educate us on the fascinating history and let us in on a few secrets, before we settle down to an included lunch in the castle restaurant. This afternoon we’ll take to the water for a locally-crafted pletna boat ride to the small island in the centre of Lake Bled – where we’ll visit the Baroque Church of the Assumption. Upon returning to the mainland, we’ll savour an afternoon spent at our leisure or dining at our hand-picked accommodation’s restaurant. Accommodation: Triglav Hotel (or similar)

DAY 6 | LAKE BLED – LJUBLJANA – POSTOJNA CAVE – ROVINJ (B)
This morning we’ll bid a fond farewell to Lake Bled and continue our journey to Slovenia’s capital: Ljubljana. Here, we’ll learn more about the city’s major sights on a locally guided walking tour and take the funicular up to the famous castle for incredible views over this enchanting city. Then: we’ll have the opportunity to visit the impressive Postojna Cave and take an unforgettable train ride through the mesmerising subterranean system. We’ll round up our day in the quaint seaside town of Rovinj – where the evening will be free for us to leisurely explore the narrow, cobbled streets in search of a local restaurant for dinner. Accommodation: The Melegran (or similar)

DAY 7 | ROVINJ (B,D)
Today, we’ll have a full day to explore Rovinj at our own pace. Whilst you’re here, we recommend paying a visit to the Church of St Euphemia – the largest Baroque building in Istria with spectacular views over the city. Enjoy wandering through the winding cobbled streets and picturesque squares of Old Town, before stopping for a refreshing drink at a harbourside cafe. This evening, a unique culinary experience awaits at a local restaurant. Accommodation: The Melegran (or similar)

DAY 8 | ROVINJ – OPATIJA – RASTOKE – PLITVICE LAKES (B)
Today’s first stop will be the chic coastal town of Opatija – where we’ll have some free time to wander at our own pace and enjoy coffee at a local cafe. Then: we’ll continue on to the charming village of Rastoke – which is known for its many beautiful waterfalls and 18th-century mills. After paying a visit to a local mill, we’ll arrive at our final destination: the stunning Plitvice Lakes region. This evening we’ll be free to relax at our hotel and enjoy the excellent restaurant at our leisure.
Accommodation: Hotel Fenomen (or similar)

DAY 9 | PLITVICE LAKES – SMILJAN – ZADAR (B,D)
A tour highlight is on the agenda this morning! After breakfast, we’ll visit one of Croatia’s most astounding natural sites: the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Plitvice Lakes National Park. Here, we'll explore the walking trails that hug the lakes – and watch as the water transforms from emerald green to azure blue. Once we’ve finished exploring, we’ll continue north to the village of Smiljan – the birthplace of famous inventor Nikola Tesla. Here, we’ll have the opportunity to visit the Tesla House Museum before moving on to the coastal city of Zadar. Tonight, we’ll look back on our incredible adventure and clink glasses over a delicious farewell dinner. Accommodation: Hotel Kolovare (or similar)

DAY 10 | ZADAR – SPLIT (B)
The tour may be coming to an end, but we have a few historical treasures to uncover before we say our goodbyes. Our Tour Leader will show us around the ancient Roman and Venetian ruins within Old Town, as well as the grand 12th-century St Anastasia’s Cathedral – before we board the mini-coach one final time to reach our final destination. Upon arrival in Split, our tour will come to a close.

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner

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Hotels:
BOUTIQUE ACCOMMODATION
Our accommodation, whether old country estate, exotic hotel resort or traditional villa, is carefully selected to reflect the character and charm of each Back-Roads destination. Some properties are situated in a stunning setting or have interesting historical and architectural heritage, while others may have been chosen for their owner-hosted welcome or excellent food. Character is not a substitute for quality, however, which is why all of our accommodation throughout Europe and Asia comes complete with ensuite facilities, comfortable furnishings and delicious food. We offer a choice of twin, double or single rooms – and while room sizes in older buildings may vary, each room will have its own unique style and character.

OUR LUXURY MINI-COACHES
Cast thoughts of long journeys spent zipping up and down motorways from your mind. Whether in Europe or Asia, our tours have a more leisurely style that gives you the freedom of travelling in your own vehicle – but with none of the hassle. Our premium mini-coaches are equipped with comfortable seats, air conditioning and large windows for enjoying the view. With the flexibility to go anywhere a car can, we take the smaller roads, travel through beautiful scenery and get right to the heart of tiny villages and buzzing cities. Along the way, your Tour Leader can offer intriguing insights about the sights we see over the on-board PA system. And, with long drives kept to a minimum, you’ll have plenty of time to stretch your legs and explore our destinations yourself.

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Inclusions

No inclusions provided

Extras & Upgrades

Solo or Triple rooms subject to availability. Please enquire.

Frequently Asked Questions

Check out our specific FAQ pages here:

Before You Go - General Croatia Info (general info for all travellers)

Before Your Cruise - General Cruise Info (for all small ship Croatia cruises)

Before Your Island Hopping Tour - General Info (packages combining hotels, ferries and transfers)

Before Your Private Charter - General Yacht and Gulet Charter Info (private charters)

Click here to see how the booking process works: https://www.discovercroatia.com.au/booking-process-how-to-book/

How far in advance do I need to book?

Cruises: For our weekly small ship cruises with guaranteed departures we suggest you book as soon as your plans are in motion. All cruises are extremely popular especially during peak season, which is June, July, August, September and these dates can be booked out up to a year in advance, especially September. One-way cruises are particularly sought-after and tend to sell out first, so please speak to us first to ensure your cruise choice is available before booking any flight arrangements.

Escorted Tours: Escorted Group Tours with guaranteed departures are also best booked as early as possible to ensure your place on the tour, as spaces are limited to a set number of passengers. Once the tour is full that departure is closed for new bookings.

Island Hopping, Self-Drive, Self-Guided Cycling/Hiking and Independent or Private Tours: Independent tours are available most days of the week at any time of year, so if you're booking late these are a great option. They can also start or finish on any day of the week, so can be a great alternative to the cruises (that mostly depart only on Saturdays). You can check out our Island Hopper Tours and our active tours for some examples. If you can't find what you are looking for please make an enquiry on any of our tours and let us know what you need. We love creating custom tours with our clients.

What do the different ship categories mean?

Please see our Ship Descriptions page here, for all the information on Ship Categories, Deck and Cabin Descriptions.

What is half-board? What meals are included?

Half-board (HB): This means that 2 meals a day are usually provided, mostly it will be breakfast and lunch on cruises, and breakfast and dinner on escorted tours. Each cruise or tour will have meals listed on the daily itinerary, so that you will know exactly which meals are included. Some lunches or dinners are swapped occasionally, so that you may enjoy a wonderful gourmet experience with your fellow travellers, such as a Captain's Dinner on a cruise, or a wine-tasting and lunch on an escorted tour. For the remainder of your meals you will be able to dine anywhere you choose and you will be responsible for the cost of those meals. Your Cruise or Tour Director will be happy to recommend a good value and trusted eatery nearby at every location, or you can explore on your own.

Bed and Breakfast (BB): This means that only breakfast is included in your holiday. Most of our Independent Tours include breakfast only, so that you are not beholden to going back to your hotel for lunch or dinner as you are going to be exploring on your own. We think that flexibility with lunch and dinner gives you the best option for exploring Croatia and experiencing the local culture and cuisine.

Full-board (FB) is occasionally offered on cruises as an optional extra, but we do not recommend you take the full-board option unless you are really sure about it. A lot of the joy of the cruise and tour experiences is to dine in local restaurants, 'konobas' (traditional pubs) and bars, so that you can meet the people who live and work there. Why come all the way to Croatia only to eat on-board for every meal? There are so many fabulous (and even some famous!) eateries. Get out there and taste them!

What type of transport is used on the Island Hopper Tours? Local ferries and vehicle transfers

Local ferries: Local ferries are used between the mainland and the islands where possible. Most of these ferries are fast ferries (high speed catamarans). Our Island Hopper Tours include all ferry tickets, as well as delivery of the ferry tickets to your hotel, when we come to pick you up to take you to the ferry port. In some towns, where some hotels are in the pedestrian zone close to the ferry port (like Hvar), then you will be met at the ferry and directed to your hotel, with luggage assistance if required. If your hotel is outside the pedestrian zone you will be met at the ferry and taken to your transfer vehicle, with luggage assistance if required.

Transfers: Most Island Hoppers have private airport transfers included, and private transfers to/from the ferry ports on the islands. Some transfers will be shared transfers if there are others going to the exact same hotel at the same time and it is a short distance.

How fit do I need to be for my holiday?

Relaxation/cultural cruises and tours: On-board your cruise ship, you will need to be able to negotiate gangways and stairs and be able to step from ship to ship as the cruise ships are moored next to each other sideways and sometimes you need to step across to the next ship. You will be walking mostly on the cobblestone streets through the iconic cities and towns of the region. The excursions are best-suited to those who are capable of walking on uneven surfaces as many old cities and towns have limited totally flat surfaces that can accommodate wheelchairs or walking-frames. Please contact us to ask about your specific circumstances, as we are happy to help plan for your needs as best we can. Assistance will be provided on cruise ships to help you navigate getting on and off, but there are a few limitations. Please ask.

Cycling tours: Although almost completely flat this cycle tour is graded easy to moderate as the daily distance ranges between approximately 15-50 km. You will be biking mostly on the dedicated cycle paths alongside canals, rivers and through the iconic cities and towns of the region. This tour is well-suited to those who have never taken a cycling holiday before as it is flat and predominantly traffic-free and you also have the option of skipping the cycling and relaxing on board.

What happens if I can't attend an excursion?

It is possible to relax at your hotel, on the tour bus or on the boat at any time.

What happens if I can't cycle or hike a stage on an active holiday?

For cycling cruises: If you don't want to cycle it is possible to relax on the boat as it moves to the next port of call.

For cycling and hiking tours: If you don't want to (or can't due to illness or injury) cycle, hike or walk a stage, then we will make arrangements to have you transferred to the next stop on your itinerary so that you can continue with your holiday. Prices for transfers vary widely, so pricing will be provided on an 'as needed' basis only.

What equipment do I need?

Relaxation/excursion cruises and tours: You will need comfortable walking shoes, clothes for relaxing, your swimming costume, and a sunhat. Most cruises are fairly relaxed and casual clothing is fine for all meals, though you may want to take one nice outfit depending on where you wish to dine onshore.

Cycling cruises and tours: You will need comfortable sports shoes, comfortable clothes for cycling, waterproof jacket and trousers, a helmet and a sunhat. We supply a detailed packing list with your information pack.

If you have any questions, just give us a call or email:

Call us or WhatsApp: +612-9212-1507
Email us: [email protected]