Timeless Croatia featuring Plitvice Lakes and the Adriatic Coast
Travel back in time – and explore the fascinating present – as you tour through stunning Croatia. Discover the Pula Arena, a wonderfully preserved Roman amphitheater, as well as the massive Diocletian’s Palace, built as an emperor’s retirement villa. Take a walk along the cascading lakes of Plitvice Lakes National Park and enjoy a three-night stay at Opatija, a celebrated seaside town known for its mild climate. Wander through a Dalmatian village and learn about its heritage and traditions, and experience light and sound in a whole new way at Zadar’s popular art installations. Throughout your tour, get a taste of regional cuisine with beautifully prepared meals featuring fresh local ingredients.
- 31 Oct 2027 – 08 Nov 2027
from $5,299 pp twin share / $6,499 pp solo * - 14 Nov 2027 – 22 Nov 2027
from $5,299 pp twin share / $6,499 pp solo * - 28 Nov 2027 – 06 Dec 2027
from $4,999 pp twin share / $6,149 pp solo * - 05 Dec 2027 – 13 Dec 2027
from $4,999 pp twin share / $6,149 pp solo * - 12 Dec 2027 – 20 Dec 2027
from $4,999 pp twin share / $6,149 pp solo * - 27 Feb 2028 – 06 Mar 2028
from $5,299 pp twin share / $6,499 pp solo * - 05 Mar 2028 – 13 Mar 2028
from $5,299 pp twin share / $6,499 pp solo * - 12 Mar 2028 – 20 Mar 2028
from $5,299 pp twin share / $6,499 pp solo * - 19 Mar 2028 – 27 Mar 2028
from $5,299 pp twin share / $6,499 pp solo * - 26 Mar 2028 – 03 Apr 2028
from $5,299 pp twin share / $6,499 pp solo *
* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Opatija, Croatia
Your journey begins in Opatija, a fashionable resort town on the Adriatic coast. As travelers’ arrival times will vary, we have not included any sightseeing today. If time allows, stroll along Opatija’s scenic Lungomare, a seaside promenade lined with Habsburg-era villas and sweeping Adriatic views. This evening, gather at a local restaurant and toast the beginning of a memorable journey.
Day 2 – Opatija – Pula – Opatija
This morning, discover the beauty of the Istrian peninsula as you journey to Pula, a seafront city rich in Roman heritage. Join a local guide and explore the UNESCO-listed Pula Arena, one of the world’s best-preserved Roman amphitheaters. Continue to the Arch of Sergius, then walk to the main Roman square to admire the Augustan Temple and medieval city hall. Enjoy free time for lunch before returning to Opatija. This afternoon, enjoy your time at leisure in this beautiful coastal gem.
Day 3 – Opatija
Take advantage of a day at leisure to explore Opatija and its beautiful views of the Adriatic coast. Or perhaps you’ll join an optional tour of Slovenia, featuring the stunning Postojna caves and the vibrant capital city of Ljubljana.
Day 4 – Opatija – Zadar – Split
Today, travel south to Zadar, where history and modern architecture meet. Enjoy lunch in a local restaurant before joining a guided city tour. Admire Roman ruins, Byzantine architecture, and the magnificent Cathedral of St. Anastasia. Interact with Zadar’s two most famous modern installations – the musical Sea Organ and the mesmerizing Greeting to the Sun. Later this afternoon, arrive in Split, a seaside city full of ancient heritage and scenic wonders. Settle in and enjoy an evening stroll with your Tour Manager.
Day 5 – Split
This morning, explore Split on a guided walking tour featuring UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace, built when Emperor Diocletian retired from Rome at the turn of the fourth century. Walk through the palace’s Peristyle and the Cathedral of St. Domnius, guarded by the Egyptian sphynxes. Then, it’s your choice! Visit the Ethnographic Museum of Split, located within the former residential complex of Diocletian’s Palace, showcasing the traditional costumes, crafts, and culture of Split -OR- continue exploring more of Diocletian’s Palace on a visit to its substructures. Set below the imperial apartments, they represent some of the best-preserved ancient complexes in the world. As your city tour will end by 1:00 p.m., the rest of the day is yours to explore the city’s coastal charms on your own.
Day 6 – Split – Etno Village of Radošic – Plitvice Lakes
Depart Split and venture into the Dalmatian countryside to the Etno Village of Radošic, a protected cultural monument on a family-owned estate. Experience a warm welcome as you learn about village traditions, rural heritage, and daily life. Enjoy a freshly prepared lunch made from homegrown ingredients and regional recipes. Continue north to legendary Plitvice Lakes National Park, one of Croatia’s most extraordinary natural treasures. Settle into your hotel near the National park and relax for the evening surrounded by nature.
Day 7 – Plitvice Lakes – Zagreb
This morning, explore the breathtaking beauty of Plitvice Lakes National Park (UNESCO). Walk along wooden boardwalks and footpaths, surrounded by forest and terraced turquoise lakes connected by waterfalls and cascades. Enjoy a short boat ride within the park as you soak in the scenery of one of Europe’s most spectacular natural landscapes. Later, continue to Zagreb, Croatia’s lively capital. Join your Tour Manager for an evening stroll and orientation.
Day 8 – Zagreb
Step right into the history and culture of Zagreb on a city tour with a local guide. Explore the charming Upper Town and Lower Town neighborhoods on foot. Learn about the city’s centuries-old history, café culture, and vibrant everyday life. Our city tour will conclude around noon, and you are free to explore the city for the afternoon. This evening, we will celebrate the end of an unforgettable trip with dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 9 – Zagreb – Tour Ends
Your tour comes to an end this morning.
Highlights
- Guided tours of Pula Arena and Diocletian’s Palace included
- Boat ride through Plitvice Lakes National Park included
- Eight nights accommodation across four locations included
Travel back in time – and explore the fascinating present – as you tour through stunning Croatia. Discover the Pula Arena, a wonderfully preserved Roman amphitheater, as well as the massive Diocletian’s Palace, built as an emperor’s retirement villa. Take a walk along the cascading lakes of Plitvice Lakes National Park and enjoy a three-night stay at Opatija, a celebrated seaside town known for its mild climate. Wander through a Dalmatian village and learn about its heritage and traditions, and experience light and sound in a whole new way at Zadar’s popular art installations. Throughout your tour, get a taste of regional cuisine with beautifully prepared meals featuring fresh local ingredients.
Inclusions
- Step back to ancient times in the famous Pula Arena.
- Stroll through Split and explore Diocletian’s Palace.
- Commune with sound and light at Zadar’s popular Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun art installations.
- Experience the wonder of cascading lakes at Croatia’s Plitvice Lakes National Park.
- Spend 3 nights in elegant Opatija, the “Old Dame” of the Adriatic.
- Discover the heritage and traditions of a Dalmatian village.
FAQs
- Grand Hotel 4 Opatijska Cvijeta, Opatija
- Hotel Corner, Split
- Hotel Lyra, Licko Petrovo Selo, Plitvice Lakes
- The Westin, Zagreb
How long is this journey?
This itinerary runs for 9 days and 8 nights.
When can I travel?
Departures are currently scheduled between 31 Oct 2027 and 03 Apr 2028, subject to live availability.
Are there different departure options?
Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.
Can I travel solo?
Solo pricing may be available on selected departures, and final options can be confirmed at enquiry.
What is generally included?
Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.
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