Food & Wine LoversHistory & CultureSmall Group 25 PAXSpecial Hosted DepartureUpdated Itinerary 2024

Tastes of Croatia & Slovenia Hosted Small Group Tour & Cruise 2024

Zagreb - Trakošćan - Zagreb - Ljubljana - Bled - Radovljica - Ljubljana - Postojna Cave - Predjama - Momjan - Poreč - Motovun - Poreč - Rovinj - Pula - Vodnjan - Poreč - Venice - Poreč - Opatija - Rastoke - Plitvice Lakes NP - Zadar - Šibenik - Skradin - Krka NP - Šibenik - Klis - Split - Dubrovnik - Elaphiti Islands - Slano - Ston - Slano - Mljet NP - Korčula - Vis - Biševo - Hvar - Bol - Trogir - Split

Prepare to enrich your palate and rejoice in history, nature, and culture as you discover one of the most interesting areas of Europe! Spend 14 remarkable days touring Croatia and Slovenia with a touch of Italy, followed by 8 days onboard a relaxing Deluxe Small Ship cruising the gorgeous Adriatic coastline.

History & Culture
Throughout our tour we will be joined by local guides who will intrigue us with their tales of local history and culture. Together we will visit seven of Croatia’s ten UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Landscapes & Nature
Imagine impressive mountain ranges, breathtaking National Parks, and the crystal clear Adriatic Sea.

Food & Wine
Experience the traditional flavours and cuisines of each region we visit, whether dining in a local restaurant for lunch or dinner, or enjoying a unique tasting.


MS Aurelia


MS Aurelia (2020) Features Capacity 36 passengers, A/C, 9 VIP Upper Deck Cabins with Private Balconies, 2 Main & 8 Lower Deck Cabins with ensuites, length 49.78m, width 8.63m, 220V, restaurant, bar, lounge, SAT TV, covered terrace, sun deck, jacuzzi, swimming platform.

Your Tastes of Croatia & Slovenia Host

03 August - 24 August 2024


Aniela Edmond​
With a deep love for her Croatian heritage, Aniela is excited to share with you the colourful history, vibrant culture and spectacular scenery of Croatia and Slovenia, on this fabulous tour.

Route Map View full screen

Trip Variations

Hosted Dalmatian Wonders Cruise - Dubrovnik to Split 2024

Dubrovnik - Elaphiti Islands - Slano - Ston - Slano - Mljet NP - Korčula - Vis - Biševo - Hvar - Bol - Trogir - Split

8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS

From $3,780 per person

View route map View details

Day by day Itinerary

Day 1
Zagreb

Welcome to Croatia. Your day is at leisure before meeting your Host and Tour Director. Overnight and dinner at the hotel. (D)

Day 2
Zagreb - Trakošćan - Zagreb

Zagreb is home to a mix of 18th and 19th century buildings with many charming parks, squares and city markets. You will discover Ban Jelačić Square and medieval settlements of Gradec and Kaptol. See the Cathedral, Dolac Market, Tkalčićeva Street, Stone Gate and St Mark’s Church. Proceed through the Hrvatsko Zagorje region to visit Trakošćan Castle dating back to the 13th century. It is Croatia’s most celebrated and romantic castle due to the surrounding parklands and lake. This evening enjoy a welcome dinner in one of Zagreb’s most loved restaurants. (B, D)

Day 3
Zagreb - Ljubljana

Head to the Slovenian capital city of Ljubljana. Ljubljana lies in a basin between the Karst and Alpine region. This city with a soul features the Baroque Old Town nestled at the foot of Castle Hill, the Art Nouveau mansions and masterpieces of the renowned architect Jože Plečnik. We visit the local markets and explore the city before taking funicular train to Ljubljana Castle, for lunch at local Slovenian restaurant. The rest of the day is at leisure. (B, L)

Day 4
Ljubljana - Bled - Radovljica - Ljubljana

Lake Bled, together with its surroundings ranks among the most beautiful alpine resorts. Enjoy a Pletna boat ride along the lake to Bled Island. See St Mary’s Church and later continue to the old medieval castle up on the cliff. The enchanting views and fairy-tale beauty are sensational. After sightseeing, enjoy a memorable lunch in Bled. Continue to visit a local producer of honey, to learn about the beekeeping tradition in Slovenia and to sample their products. Before returning to Ljubljana for an evening at leisure, we stop in Radovljica for a stroll through this magical little town. (B, L, T)

Day 5
Ljubljana - Postojna - Predjama - Momjan - Poreč

Postojna Cave is one of the world’s largest karst monuments. For 140 years train journeys have been taking visitors through the caves to see the spectacular subterranean world. Photo stop in Predjama Castle before arriving to the small village of Momjan where we visit an award-winning winery of famous local wines. This evening, dinner is at the hotel in Poreč. (B, T, D)

Day 6
Poreč - Motovun - Poreč

The seaside town of Poreč is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Euphrasius Basilica from the 6th century AD. The apse of the Basilica is ornately decorated with figural mosaics noted as one of the most remarkable examples of mosaic art in Europe. Proceed to the gorgeous hilltop town of Motovun, possibly the most picturesque medieval hilltop town of inner Istria. Lunch will be served in locally, where you will experience a tasting of Istria’s most famous delicacy, their truffles. Upon arrival back to Poreč, evening is at leisure. (B, T/L)

Day 7
Poreč - Rovinj - Pula - Vodnjan - Poreč

Rovinj is one of the most romantic towns on the Mediterranean, with its cobbled streets, squares and picturesque buildings. Enjoy a tour and some free time here to explore the town and its must see local markets, before meeting for lunch at a local restaurant. Continue to Pula with its impressive Roman Amphitheatre, the Temple of Augustus and the Arch of Sergii. There is a long tradition of olive oil making in Istria and we get a taste of this in Vodnjan where we visit a renowned family producer of olive oil. Return to Poreč where the rest of your day is at leisure. (B, L, T)

Day 8
Poreč - Venice - Poreč

Enjoy a day trip to Venice. A walking tour will show you the highlights including St Mark’s Square, St Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, Bell Tower and Bridge of Sighs. Visit a glass blowing factory and watch a master artisan demonstrate this traditional Venetian art. The rest of your day is at leisure to experience Venice. Late afternoon return to Poreč for dinner and overnight. (B, D)

Day 9
Poreč - Opatija - Rastoke - Plitvice Lakes

Today we depart for the Plitvice Lakes. Enroute stop in Opatija, one of the most popular seaside resorts on the Adriatic. It is often referred to as Croatia’s Monte Carlo and was once the playground of the Austro-Hungarian nobility. Continue to Plitvice with a stop in Rastoke. Rest of the day is at leisure before dinner this evening. (B, D)

Day 10
Plitvice Lakes - Zadar - Šibenik

The Plitvice Lakes are Croatia’s most popular tourist attraction. The beauty lies in its sixteen lakes, inter-connected by a series of waterfalls, set in deep woodland populated by deer, bears, wolves, boars and rare bird species. After discovering the National Park we continue to the Dalmatian coast for our visit of Zadar, one of the most charming old Dalmatian cities dating back to Roman times. Steeped in history, visit the Roman Forum and St Donatus Church, the Romanesque St Grisigono’s Church, St Mary’s Bell Tower and St Anastasia Cathedral. Take a stroll along its beautiful promenade with Sea Organ & Greetings to the Sun, a sound and light spectacle and award-winning architectural space. We depart Zadar and travel along the Dalmatian coastline where our next stop is Šibenik. Upon arrival the rest of the day is at leisure before dinner at the hotel. (B, D)

Day 11
Šibenik - Skradin - Krka Waterfalls - Plastovo - Šibenik

Discover the oldest Croatian city on the Adriatic and see Croatia’s most beautiful monument, St James Cathedral. We visit quaint town of Skradin before continuing to the Krka Waterfalls National Park. Experience the natural beauty of the largest of the seven waterfalls, Skradinski Buk on Krka River. Visit the authentically restored ensemble of small stone houses, workshop, exhibits and watermills, and enjoy a beautiful walk through forest pathways and wooden bridges. We continue to the village of Plastovo to visit one of Croatia’s most famous wineries, for an unforgettable lunch and wine tasting. Late afternoon arrival back to Šibenik, the rest of your day is at leisure. (B, T/L)

Day 12
Šibenik - Salona - Klis - Split

This morning we are transferred to the ancient Romain ruins of Salona before arriving to Klis. The medieval fortress, built by the Illyrians over 2,000 years ago, overlooks the village and offers breathtaking views of Split and the Adriatic Sea. We continue to a unique family owned estate where we partake in a cooking class lunch, visit their ethno-village and learn about traditional Dalmatian life, and the production of local delicacies. Upon return to Split the rest of the afternoon is at leisure. (B, L)

Day 13
Split - Biokovo - Tučepi - Dubrovnik

Breakfast at the hotel and departure to Dubrovnik. Enroute stop at the Biokovo Nature Park for a visit of the Skywalk. Take in the impressive views of the Makarska Riviera and Islands before a lunch stop at a local restaurant in Tučepi. Later proceed to Dubrovnik with a photo stop in front of the Pelješac Bridge. Overnight in Dubrovnik with evening at leisure. (B, L)

Day 14
Dubrovnik

Morning at leisure to explore Dubrovnik at your own pace. In the afternoon enjoy a folklore show representing a rich traditional culture, musical and dance heritage of the Dubrovnik region and Croatia. This evening experience local cuisine and spectacular views of the fortified Old Town, all from the dinner table. (B, D)

Day 15
Dubrovnik

Today our small ship cruise begins. After joining our vessel, transfer to the city gates for a guided tour of the Old Town where you will discover the charm and fascination of Dubrovnik. The Onofrio’s Fountain, Franciscan and Dominican monasteries, and Rector’s Palace. Take the cable car from the Old Town to Mount Srđ for incredible scenic views of the city and Elaphiti Islands. This evening enjoy a welcome cocktail and dinner to meet your Captain, crew and fellow cruise passengers. (B, D)

Day 16
Dubrovnik - Elaphiti Islands - Slano - Ston - Slano

During breakfast take in the spectacular scenery, as the ship cruises around Dubrovnik City Walls, before continuing to one of the Elaphiti Islands for a swim stop. Afternoon arrival in Slano, a peaceful fishermen’s village and the starting point to Ston, a once fortified small town, famous for its medieval ramparts, saltworks and oysters. After exploring the town our excursion takes us to a family owned oyster farm for a special tasting and experience. Return to the ship for an evening at leisure. (B, L, T)

Day 17
Slano - Mljet - Korčula

Today we head further north to the Island of Mljet. Join the Cruise Director for a stroll to the famous saltwater lakes in the National Park and enjoy a boat ride to St Mary Isle to visit an ancient Benedictine monastery. Cruise towards Korčula, the birthplace of Marco Polo. Lunch is in a secluded bay enroute. A fish bone street pattern design was used in Korčula Old Town to reduce effects of wind and sun and provide citizens with sheltered and comfortable accommodation. Discover the town and later there are many wonderful restaurants to dine at or an optional excursion to a small village near Korčula where you will enjoy dinner and hear about history and true local life. (B, L)

Day 18
Korčula - Vis

Continue to the Island of Vis, which was once a naval base and closed to tourists. Due to this isolation, it has a unique charm. On arrival to Vis Town, your time is at leisure. Visit the remains of the Roman thermal place, town museum, or simply enjoy the surrounds. This evening make sure to dine at a local fish restaurant to sample fish and seafood prepared in traditional Dalmatian style. (B, L)

Day 19
Vis - Biševo - Hvar

Cruise towards Biševo to visit the Blue Cave, a magnificent natural phenomenon (visit is weather dependent). Continue to Hvar, the longest and sunniest island in the Adriatic. We explore Hvar Old Town and see the Renaissance cathedral with its original tower and the oldest community theatre in Europe. We take a walk to a family owned winery, where we learn about its history of wine making and sample the local Dalmatian wine. One last stop takes us to the must-see Spanish Fortress which offers incredibly scenic views of the town and Pakleni Islands. This evening experience the electric atmosphere of Hvar’s famous nightlife. Dine at a local restaurant or visit the bars and cafes which are open long into the night. (B, L, T)

Day 20
Hvar - Bol - Trogir

Morning departure to Brač Island, where swimming is planned at the most famous beach in Dalmatia, Zlatni Rat near Bol. Bol is a typical fishermen’s town, converted into a popular tourist destination. Continue to Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage protected historic stone town, often described as an open-air museum. We explore the charming town with its narrow alleyways and view the Cathedral of St Lawrence and the magnificent Kamerlengo Tower. Return to the ship for your Captain’s Dinner with live entertainment to dance the night away. (B, L, D)

Day 21
Trogir - Split

This morning we visit a gorgeous bay for a swim stop, before our lunch is served and we arrive to Split. Enjoy a guided tour of Split, a historic city under UNESCO protection and part of the world heritage with an abundance of Roman architecture including Roman Emperor Diocletian’s Palace and its cellars. Enjoy your final evening at leisure to explore this vibrant city. (B, L)

Day 22
Split

Check out is by 0900HRS. Say farewell to your crew and fellow travellers. For those of you returning home or travelling onwards you will be transferred to Split Airport. We are sure you will have made many friends and have a wealth of memories to treasure and take home with you. Sretan Put. (B)

Inclusions

Tour & Cruise Includes

  • Croatia Times Travel Host
  • 14 Nights in mainly 4* hotels
  • All transfers as per itinerary
  • 21 Breakfasts, 13 Lunches, 9 Dinners (B, L, D)
  • Tour & Cruise Director
  • Modern A/C motor coach
  • Service charges, hotel taxes & Porterage
  • Authentic Food & Wine Experiences (T)
  • 7 nights on luxury Small Ship
  • Ship Welcome Reception & Cocktail
  • Daily cabin service
  • Free WiFi on ship (restrictions may apply)
  • Visitor taxes & port fees
  • Tipping

Highlights

  • Authentic dining experiences at local restaurants
  • Unique stays in centrally located hotels
  • Traditional Pletna boat ride along Lake Bled
  • Visit a traditional Slovenian apiary & learn about their beekeeping traditions
  • Wine tasting in Momjan
  • Truffle Tasting lunch in the heart of the Istria region
  • Olive Oil Tasting at a family owned estate
  • Venice full day excursion
  • Walk the scenic paths of Plitvice Lakes NP
  • Wine Tasting & lunch at one of Croatia’s most renowned Dalmatian wineries
  • Visit to Salona & Klis Fort, followed by a cooking class of traditional Dalmatian cuisine
  • Wine Tasting on the Island of Hvar
  • Visit & Tasting at Ston Oyster Farm
  • Captain’s Dinner with live entertainment
  • Cable car ride in Dubrovnik with sensational views of the Old Town

Sightseeing with Local Guides

  • Zagreb
  • Trakošćan
  • Ljubljana
  • Bled
  • Poreč
  • Motovun
  • Rovinj
  • Pula
  • Venice
  • Plitvice NP
  • Zadar
  • Šibenik
  • Krka NP
  • Salona
  • Klis
  • Dubrovnik
  • Korčula
  • Hvar
  • Trogir
  • Split

Entrance Fees

  • Zagreb - Funicular
  • Trakošćan - Castle
  • Ljubljana - Funicular, Castle
  • Bled - Castle, Pletna Boat, Church, Beekeeping Museum
  • Postojna - Cave
  • Poreč - Euphrasius Basilica
  • Motovun - Shuttle Bus, Town Walls
  • Pula - Amphitheatre Arena
  • Plitvice Lakes - National Park
  • Šibenik - Cathedral
  • Krka - National Park
  • Salona - Roman Ruins
  • Klis - Fortress
  • Biokovo - Nature Park Skywalk
  • Dubrovnik - Folklore Show, Cable Car
  • Mljet - National Park
  • Hvar - Fortress
  • Split - Diocletian Palace Cellars

Exclusions

Optional Excursions (booked & paid direct, price subject to change)

  • Biševo Blue Cave €18 per person approx
  • Korčula Village Dinner €45-60 per person approx

Pricing and Accommodation

Pricing and Accommodation information is not available.

Important Notes

Cruise Information
VIP Cabins are on the Upper Deck. Upper Deck Cabins are above the Main Deck. Lower Deck Cabins are in the hull of the ship, below the Main Deck. All cabins are allocated according to availability. Most port arrivals are in the late afternoon. Cruising time is approximately 4-5 hours a day. Guests are obliged to follow ship rules. Due to specific mooring conditions and requirements in some Croatian Ports, ships are moored side by side. This makes it necessary to cross from one ship to the other where there are gaps in between each ship. Special care must be taken at all times when crossing between the vessels and guests do this at their own risk. Crew assistance will be given to those needing and requesting it. View from cabin windows and balconies may be obstructed when moored in port and alongside other ships. Cruises are not recommended for those in wheelchairs or with limited mobility.

Booking Terms & Conditions
Deposits: Upon confirmation a non-refundable deposit of NZ$1,500 per person is payable. Final Payment: Final payment is due no later than 90 days prior to departure from New Zealand. Prices: All prices are in NZ$ based on twin share per person. Airfares and any costs not stated are not included. Solo Travellers: To guarantee a private room/cabin, solo travellers must book the ‘single use’ price. If you agree to share with another passenger of the same gender you will pay the ‘twin share’ price if available. Group Size: Tour & Cruise up to 25. Cruise only up to 36. Guaranteed departure based on minimum 10 guests. Additional cost will apply if group size is below minimum numbers. Tour Arrangements: We reserve the right to alter the routing, change accommodation and services if required. The cruise operator reserves the right to alter the route due to weather or other conditions and cancel or change the ship if necessary. Travel Insurance: It is a requirement of this travel arrangement that all travellers must take out a fully comprehensive travel insurance for the full duration of this trip. Contact us or your Travel Agent for more information. For full booking terms & conditions click here.

Extras and Add Ons

Add Sightseeing & Excursions

Insurance is required for this tour. We'll be happy to provide a quote or you'll need evidence of your own insurance.

Need travel insurance? Get a quote from us.