11-Day Venice With Slovenia and Croatia

Today, you’ll arrive at Venice airport where you will be met by your private guide and driver who will transfer you to your hotel. After checking in to the hotel, you’ll have a free day to explore the ‘floating city’ as you wish. You may want to find a good spot in a cafe with a glass of wine admiring the beautiful buildings and vibrant atmosphere or explore the canals on a gondola. Get ready for a full experience to Slovenia and Croatia from Venice!.

From: Venice Marco Polo Airport
To: Venice

In the heart of Venice, the Bellini offers guests the perfect encapsulation of the City of Water.

The 105-room hotel overlooks the Grand Canal and imposing Scalzi bridge and is housed in a beautiful 19th-century palazzo full of Venetian antiques, natural wood floors, gilt-framed mirrors and paintings, shining marble bathrooms, frescoed ceilings and Murano-glass chandeliers.

For those who prefer a more stripped-back approach, however, the Corso wing is an exercise in minimalism with pure white rooms offering respite from the busy city outside.

The roof terrace offers views over the glittering canals and overlooks the ancient Scalzi church next door. The church is home to a famous herb garden, the fragrance of which occasionally drifts up onto the hotel’s terrace or through its windows.

As well as being the perfect location for exploring the city, the hotel has extraordinarily friendly staff members, who are also some of the best guides to Venice. They’ll guide you to an interesting restaurant, an authentic bar, a hidden treasure or a picturesque corner, to make sure each stay is different from the last.

Address: Hotel Bellini Venezia, Rio Terà Lista di Spagna, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy

Built on over 100 islands, Venice is one of the most famous cities in the world. A winding route of canals and bridges accessed by long-tail boat, its creativity, history and architectural beauty will charm you into discovery.

Journeying through the Grand Canal by a local water taxi, you’ll be taken through time back to the Renaissance era and the Italian-Byzantine period. The artists of Italy were creating artworks and architecture that would change the course of art as we know it today, documented through the very existence of this charming city on water.

From museums and art collections to bridges, piazzas, basilicas and even just houses, Venice is bursting with an artistic heritage that is very much still the foundation of the city today.

Address: Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy

Today will be a full day of exploring the canals of Venice and its main attractions like Rialto, St. Mark’s Square, the Grand Canal and Doge’s Palace, a grand 15th-century building which has been built and rebuilt many times. In the afternoon, it is also possible to visit the nearby islands of Murano and Burano, two just of Venice’s 100 islands but arguably the most famous, known for their glass making and lace making traditions.

Commonly known as Saint Mark’s Square, Piazza San Marco is one of Venice’s most important and largest landmarks. The large, open space is one of very few in this largely waterbound city so has been a popular meeting point for travellers and locals alike for many years.

Home to the grand Saint Mark’s Basilica and the towering and iconic bell tower, the square offers a true architectural spectacle.

Constructed during the 9th century to accompany the impressive basilica which now sits at the east end of the square and the Doge’s Palace, the square was then enlarged in the 12th century. Once paved with bricks depicting a beautiful herringbone pattern, the square was repaved with natural stone in the early 1700s.

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Address: Piazza San Marco, 30100 Venezia VE, Italy

The oldest of four bridges that straddle the Grand Canal, Rialto Bridge connects the sestieri of San Marco and San Polo. Despite being overshadowed at times by Venice’s more sought-after attractions, Rialto Bridge remains the heart of Venice for many.

The current bridge you see was built in just three years between 1588 and 1591. The original bridge was built in the 12th century as a boat bridge then followed by three wooden bridges before finally being replaced with the structure you see today.

Up until 1854, Rialto Bridge was the only way to cross the Grand Canal on foot.

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Address: Sestiere San Polo, 30125 Venezia VE, Italy

The history of the Doge’s Palace is a turbulent one. Having been rebuilt several times due to the palace being destroyed in what seemed to be centurial fires.

The oldest part of the building is the courtyard and staircase which looks onto St Mark’s Basilica, adjacent to the palace. Built in the 15th century, it descends down to the piazza arched by great sculptures of Neptune and Mars, forming the Giant’s Staircase.

With much reconstruction, the design of the palace was set to switch from the Byzantine-Venetian Gothic style to a more contemporary Renaissance style. This can be seen in some parts of the building, however, after a third fire in the 16th century, this decision was revoked.

After this, a neo-classical element was added to the building when it was linked to the neighbouring prison with the Bridge of Sighs: a limestone bridge that was used to take prisoners to the interrogation room.

The works that were created for the palace during the 14th and 15th century were some of the most spectacular examples of Venetian sculpture, which over the years, fell into disrepair with the buildings constant fires and structure problems. Some of these were saved and can now be seen in the Museo dell’Opera alongside parts of the facade and columns that decorated the palace.

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Address: Piazza San Marco, 1, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy

A series of small islands linked together through bridges, Murano is found within the Venetian Lagoon.

This charming area is particularly famous for its glass, which has been infamous in the area for centuries after glassmakers were ordered out of the heart of Venice in fear that they would set fire to the wooden architecture.

Today, the majority of Murano’s population are still glassblowers and makers, journeying through this area by water taxi, you can peak into the workshops to see this fascinating process that is dying around the world, yet still maintains highly regarded in tradition around this area.

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Address: Murano, 30141 Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy

A charming island in the Venetian Lagoon, Burano is a colourful myriad of pastel houses that became a thriving island after its discovery, which was supposedly in the 6th century.

Despite its establishment as an island, Burano had little privileges that other settlements enjoyed until the island was regarded as an important addition to the creative community. The women of the island started producing the most beautiful lace products in the 16th century, it soon gained popularity, and was renowned across the country. Eventually, the lace was exported across Europe.

With its popularity, a lacemaking school was opened on the island, however, today, few know how to make lace by hand, as it is an expensive and time consuming practice that is not profitable.

Journeying around the island, you’ll see traces of the former trade, alongside the more modernised, machine sewn lace in practice.

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Address: Burano, 30142 Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy

Today, you’ll leave Italy behind and drive towards Trieste, the Italian port city that used to be the most important port of the Habsburg empire. Here, you’ll walk through the old streets and visit the famous Piazza Unita Italia. You will also visit the picturesque Castle Miramare. Next, you’ll head towards Slovenia and its beautiful coastal town of Piran, set on a peninsula. Walk over the Tartini Square and admire the old Townhall, Courthouse and the colourful Venetian houses surrounding it.

From: Venice
To: Trieste

Characterised by its steep karst-like landscape, Trieste is situated at the end of a narrow peninsula in the southeast of the Friuli Venezia Giulia region, between the Adriatic Sea and Italy’s border with Slovenia.

This location has made Trieste an extraordinary destination for historic treasures and artwork, an area which has long been an inspiration for important writers such as Rilke, Joyce, and Svevo. Just off the coast, the broad gulf is home to many beautiful little bays, small harbours and spectacular reefs with abundance Mediterranean vegetation.

Trieste’s Italian, Austro-Hungarian and Slovenian influences are evident in the city’s layout: a medieval old city and a neoclassical Austrian quarter. During the 18th and 19th centuries, the city blossomed under the Habsburg Empire.

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Address: Trieste, Province of Trieste, Italy

The main square in the unique port city of Trieste on the Slovenian border, Piazza Unità d’Italia sits at the foot of the hill of the Castle of San Giusto facing the Adriatic Sea.

Often said to be Europe’s largest square located next to the sea, Piazza Unità d’Italia was named so after the Second World War. Within the square, you can admire the impressive buildings that surround it: the Palazzo della Luogotenenza, Palazzo Stratti with the famous Caffè degli Specchi, Palazzo Modello, the Town Hall, Palazzo Pitteri, the Palazzo Vanoli, and the Palazzo della Region.

In the Piazza Unità d’Italia, there was once a mid-18th-century fountain, the Fountain of the Four Continents built between 1751 and 1754. However, it was removed in 1938 under the Mussolini’s order.

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Address: Piazza Unità d’Italia, 34121 Trieste TS, Italy

A 19th-century castle situated on the Gulf of Trieste overlooking the sea, Castello di Miramare as its locally known was built from 1856 to 1860 for an Austrian Archduke and his wife. With Trieste to one side, the snow-capped Dolomites as a backdrop to the north and its position metres above the Mediterranean sea, Miramare Castle is one of the finest castles on the continent.

The castle was built in a brilliant mix of Gothic, Medieval and Renaissance styles which reflected the archduke’s eclectic taste at the time, a style popular amongst Habsburg nobility. Unfortunately, the castle was residence to the couple only for a short time and in the decades that followed, the castle became a holiday home for members of the Habsburg family.

Following the first world war, the castle was opened to the public before serving as a residence to several forces during the second world war before finally being returned to the Italians. this short but turbulent history and its unique architectural heritage are two of the elements that make this castle so interesting.

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Address: Viale Miramare, 34151 Trieste TS, Italy

From: Trieste
To: Piran

Perched on Slovenia’s Adriatic coast, Piran is a picturesque resort city which is perched at the tip of a narrow peninsula. Piran is known as a gem of Venetian Gothic architecture and is one of the best preserved historical towns on the Adriatic.

Unlike the popular cities and towns of Ljubljana and Bled, Piran hasn’t quite made it on to the list if popular travel destinations in Slovenia but there is no reason why it hasn’t. This medieval city has a lot to offer and is an incredibly pretty place to visit.

Whilst here, you may like to take a stroll along its narrow Istrian streets or the long pier, or perhaps you’d like to visit Tartini Square, which is fringed by the Gothic red Venetian houses. The 19th-century town hall is also worth a visit with its large stone lion, and the 17th-century St. George’s Cathedral with its marble altars is not to be missed.

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Address: 6330 Piran, Slovenia

Situated in the coastal, medieval, walled town of Piran, Tartini Central Square is the main square of the town named after violinist and composer, Giuseppe Tartini, of whom there is now a dedicated bronze monument in the square.

A popular meeting place for locals and a venue for concerts and social events, Tartini Central Square oozes its Venetian style through its white marble paving and charming Venetian buildings which surround it. Here, you can admire the old Townhall, Courthouse and other colourful Venetian houses surrounding the old square.

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Address: 6330 Piran – Pirano, Slovenia

With thirty smiling faces, more than 2,400 hours of sunshine a year, a location that is only a few steps away from the sea, and more than 100 years of tradition, Hotel Piran is an attractive location for every traveller who takes the trip to the main tourist town of Slovenia.

The visitors of Hotel Piran can rest in 103 rooms and suites, which are full of tradition and offer comfort, a perfect combination for relaxation. The staff of the Hotel Piran Restaurant unites local tastes of the coastal hinterlands with the Mediterranean cuisine to create unique culinary experiences. Available for breakfast, lunch and dinner the restaurant provides stunning views over the sea and town whilst you dine.

Address: Hotel Piran, Stjenkova ulica, Piran, Slovenia

Today, you’ll leave Slovenia and head towards the extremely picturesque Istrian town, Motovun, set on top of the hill above the valley of the River Mirna. Popular among foodies for its famous forest full of rare and elusive truffles, Motovan is a walled town home to many Gothic and Renaissance buildings. Afterwards, you’ll continue to Plitvice Lakes National Park where you will visit the famous UNESCO-protected, stunning blue lakes.

From: Piran
To: Motovun

A picturesque walled town perfect on the top of a hill in the Mirna river valley, Motovun is famed for its hidden treasure in the form of Istria’s famous truffles which can be found in its dark forest.

This astonishing little town boasts beautiful views over the verdant valley giving it a fairytale-like appearance on approach.

Fortified by the Venetians in the 14th century, the town sits behind two sets of thick brick walls. Inside the walls, Motovun is home to a cluster of Romanesque and Gothic buildings where artists, restaurateurs and shop owners have set up businesses.

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Address: Motovun, Croatia

From: Motovun
To: Plitvice Lakes (Plitvička Jezera)

One of Croatia’s eight listed UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Plitvice Lakes National Park is also Croatia’s most famous national park. The park encompasses the source of the Korana River which is surrounded by dense forest.

The Plitvice Lakes National Park is best known for its 16 small lakes which are joined by waterfalls created by the sedimentation of travertine, a special type of limestone. There are also several caves, springs and flowering meadows within the park which makes it attractive to visitors.

Founded in 1949, this national park is one of Croatia’s largest and is spread over an area of 296.85 square kilometres, filled with wide forest complexes, the extraordinary beauty of lakes and falls, rich flora and fauna, fresh air, colourful flowers, forest’s paths and wooden bridges.

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Address: Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

Hotel and restaurant Degenija are located 4 kilometres from the entrance to the Plitvice Lakes National Park. Hotel Degenija is a 4-star with 20 comfortable and modern rooms, café and cocktail bar. Right next to the hotel is the restaurant Degenija that offers a rich selection of traditional and national dishes.

The hotel’s location in the heart of Croatian is ideal for all visitors who want to explore our oldest Plitvice Lakes National Park, which has been under the protection of UNESCO since 1979. Besides enjoying the magnificent beauty of the park, lakes and magnificent waterfalls, the location of the hotel is the perfect base to explore and visit the other parts of Croatia.

Address: Hotel Degenija, Rakovica, Selište Drežničko, Croatia

Today, you’ll drive towards Southern Dalmatia to visit the Pearl of Adriatic, Dubrovnik, a city made even more popular by its appearance in the hit TV show, Game of Thrones. On your way, you will stop at Mali Ston, a small medieval walled town famous oysters and salt – you’ll simply have to try to know why they are so famous! In the afternoon, you’ll arrive in Dubrovnik for the sightseeing tour of the old town and possible late walk along the atmospheric city walls.

From: Plitvice Lakes (Plitvička Jezera)
To: Dubrovnik

Mali Ston and its sister town, Ston, sit on a section of land which connects the Pelješac Peninsula with the mainland. They are renowned for none other than three things: salt, oysters and the 5.5-kilometre defensive wall that links them.

Oysters and salt have been the main harvest of these two towns since Roman times, the marshy land in this region a great place for the production of salt.

A gastronomic destination, you simply cannot leave Mali Ston without sampling the famed mussels and large flat oysters that thrive in the narrow channel.

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Address: Mali Ston, Croatia

At the very tip of Croatia, Dubrovnik is a quaint seaside city that is bursting with charm, stunning architecture and welcoming waters.

The city is often referred to as ‘Grad’ by locals, as it is nationally known that the city has a particularly opulent culture and heritage, demonstrated in its architecture and overall appearance. The city is a meld of old and new: modern-day urban complexes with reminiscent features of Renaissance and Baroque that makes the city a fascinating place to explore.

From beaches and restaurants to art galleries, museums and cathedrals, exploring the city will allow you to submerge yourself in all that Dubrovnik has to offer.

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Address: Dubrovnik, Croatia

Encompassing the stunning city, the walls are a great way to get a different perspective of the Dubrovnik. As the finest and best-preserved in the world, they put the city on the map.

As you reach the walkway you’ll have views across the city and the Adriatic Sea, the walls give you a clear insight into the damage of the Siege in 1992 for the Independence of Croatia, as you can see the remains of the damage as well as the great number of glimmering terracotta rooftops that have been recently replaced.

The city became walled in the 9th century, however, it was not formally fortified until the 14th century when 15 forts were built to encompass the surrounds with defence. The defences were strengthened when the Turkish attacked in the 15th century.

The walk around the city walls can be unexpectedly arduous, basking in the sunlight with no shelter, the open-air walk can feel like a furnace with steep ascents. There are numerous exits, should you not be able to complete the cycle.

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Address: Poljana Paška Miličevića, 20000, Dubrovnik, Croatia

Hotel Neptun is the ideal choice for travellers looking for a truly memorable vacation in the sun.

As part of Importanne Resort, Hotel Neptun offers access to a stunning beach along the crystal clear the Adriatic Sea as well as proximity to the beauty and history of Dubrovnik’s Old Town.

Hotel Neptun is situated in Babin Kuk and boasts spectacular views overlooking the sea and the Elaphite Islands. Guests are sure to love Hotel Neptun’s bright and modern decor and amazing amenities, including indoor and outdoor pools, spas, and several restaurants and bars.

Address: Hotel Neptun, Ulica kardinala Stepinca, Dubrovnik, Croatia

Today, you’ll have a full day to relax and explore Dubrovnik on a walking tour if you wish to do so. Among others, you will be able to see the background for the Game of Thrones series where Dubrovnik served as scenery for King’s Landing. In the afternoon, you may also like to visit Lokrum island to visit the ruins of the old monastery and relax between the greenery. In the evening, you can watch the sunset from the Imperial fortress above the town.

The large complex of the Franciscan Church and Monastery is situated at the beginning of Placa, the main street of Dubrovnik. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit inside the Old Town of Dubrovnik.

Inside the complex, behind the monastery’s stone walls, you’ll find two beautiful cloisters one in Renaissance style and the other in Romanesque-Gothic style, a library, a pharmacy and a small museum of relics including chalices, paintings, jewellery and old books.

Parts of this grand complex have been destroyed either by warfare or natural disasters and hence have been rebuilt and renovated many times. The monastery was originally built in 1630 in a Romanesque style and the library within it contains over 20,000 books, many centuries old and very valuable. The pharmacy back to 1317 and is the 3rd oldest fully functioning pharmacy in the entire world.

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Address: Poljana Paska Miličevića 4, 20000, Dubrovnik, Croatia

The seat of the Diocese of Dubrovnik, part of the Roman Catholic Church. Having first been erected in 990, the building was not renovated to reach a highly revered position of the archdiocese until the 12th century. In the 18th century, it was demoted to the diocese by the Pope.

The building was rebuilt almost every century until the 12thcentury basilica that was commissioned by King Richard the I as a votive for having been saved from shipwreck on his return from the Kings Crusade.

It was not until the 17th century that this was destroyed in an earthquake that struck the city. Andrea Bufalini among other architects and a friar were commissioned by the Senate of Dubrovnik to create a Baroque masterpiece. The cathedral took 3 decades to create the Roman-Baroque cathedral you see today.

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Address: Ul. kneza Damjana Jude 1, 20000, Dubrovnik, Croatia

A small island in the Adriatic Sea, Lokrum is known as the Island of Kings. The island was first mentioned in 1023 for the Benedictine abbey and neighbouring monastery.

Legend has it, Richard the I was in a shipwreck and cast ashore on Lokrum after returning from the Third Crusade. Having been saved, the King was compelled to build a church on the island in thanks for the locals’ bravery.

The majority of the island is now a nature reserve where you can enjoy leisurely walks to the botanical gardens and Portugal’s very own Dead Sea.

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Address: Lokrum, Dubrovnik, Croatia

Leaving Dubrovnik behind, you’ll continue towards Split to visit the spectacular old city centre and Diocletian’s Palace, built for the famed Roman Emperor Diocletian. Here, you’ll walk through the narrow streets to see Peristyle, Saint Domnius Cathedral, the Golden Gates, the substructures of the palace which are another Game of Thrones setting and many more sights in a full afternoon walking tour of the city.

From: Dubrovnik
To: Split

Built for the Roman Emperor of the same name between 284-305, the palace occupies half the Old Town of Split, most of which was used as a military garrison. It was referred to as a palace as Diocletian intended to retire here, built on the outskirts of the former Dalmatian capital of Salona, now Solin.

When the Roman Empire was defeated, the palace was abandoned, it was not until the 7th century that locals occupied the palace once more to escape the Croats. After this time, locals built their homes within its walls.

The palace remained unknown until the Scottish architect, Robert Adam surveyed the structure in the 16th century. Inspired by its design, the architect based his idea of neoclassicism on the palace.

Today, the building is locally regarded as the most important building in Split and on the Adriatic coast: it is the most well-preserved Roman structure in the world.

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Address: Dioklecijanova ulica 1, Sredmanuška ul. 11, 21000, Split, Croatia

Split is the cultural and art centre of Croatia which has preserved the country’s heritage for centuries. It is the biggest city in Dalmatia and is widely known for the famous ancient Diocletian’s Palace which was built during the Roman era in the 4th century.

Since 1979, Split has been on the UNESCO heritage list as one of twelve UNESCO locations in Croatia. The centre of the town is truly picturesque and is the perfect place to get lost in its winding streets, numerous historical monuments and beautiful architecture dating back to Roman times.

As well as the Diocletian’s Palace, which was once the summer residence of the Roman Emperor, Diocletian, the city offers various attractions such as the Renaissance Prokurative Square, noble families palaces, churches, galleries and museums. You’ll also be able to explore Split’s many bars, restaurants and shops that thrive amidst the atmospheric old walls.

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Address: 21000, Split, Croatia

Set in the heart of Split, you’ll find the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, known locally as the Sveti Dujam, made up of a church complex which formed from an Imperial Roman mausoleum. The church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, and the bell tower to Saint Domnius, making the Saint Domnius Cathedral together.

The cathedral was consecrated in during the 7th century and is said to be one of the oldest Catholic churches in the world. Still in use, with its original structure, this ancient Roman building now known as the Saint Domnius Cathedral is due for a total renovation in the future.

The cathedral’s church is built in an octagonal shape so is particularly unique. The exterior is circled by 24 stone columns and the Romanesque bell tower, which was added between the 13th and 16th century sits adjacent to the church. You can climb the bell tower to the top of the steep staircase for stunning views over Split.

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Address: Ul. Kraj Svetog Duje 5, 21000, Split, Croatia

The 4th-century Roman stone entryway to Diocletian’s Palace, Kinoteka Golden Gate is decorated with arches and ornate statues.

Emporer Diocletian walked through this gate when he first entered the palace on 1st of June 305. The gate’s facade is decorated with sculptures of the four tetrarchs (Diocletian, Maximian, Galerius and Constantius Chlorus).

The double-doored gate was solely for the use of the emporer and the members of the family. Today, it is a landmark of Split and a popular tourist spot.

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Address: Dioklecijanova ul. 10, 21000, Split, Croatia

It’s hard to imagine that in the same place where a factory was built almost 100 years ago today stands Dalmatia’s most exciting and fashionable boutique hotel.

Within steps of the Split’s historic centre, ancient Diocletian’s palace and most popular sandy beach Bacvice, you can now enjoy Old World charm and state of the art luxury at the boutique Hotel Luxe.

Hotel Luxe is less than a 5 min walk from the trains, buses, speed boats and ferries. You’ll find yourself feeling at home in any of the hotel’s public areas; from the wellness centre to the restaurant and lobby bar, you’ll enjoy a relaxing atmosphere and uniquely designed interiors, contemporary furnishings and extraordinary service.

Address: Hotel Luxe Split, Ulica kralja Zvonimira, Split, Croatia

Say goodbye to Split this morning as you head towards the capital of Croatia, Zagreb, a city is steeped in rich history which dates back to the Roman times between the 1st and 5th century. Upon reaching the city, you’ll head out for a walking tour through the old town during which you’ll visit the spectacular Zagreb Cathedral, Dolac Farmers Market and many charming squares such as the Ban Jelacic Square and St. Marks Square.

From: Split
To: Zagreb

Dolac Market is a symbol of the capital city, Zagreb, and its big umbrellas and bustling community make it very easy to spot for new visitors. It is a great place to observe the lives of the locals of whom this market has been shaping their lives for decades.

This atmospheric market is a charming place where locals go to buy their fresh products and have a morning chat with the vendors over coffee. Whilst it isn’t the only market in Zagreb, it was the first one to be built to European standards so is very popular.

When Croatia became part of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia in 1918, the current market was not big enough to support the growing population of this new financial and commercial centre. Hence, Dolac was built following the influence of markets in cities such as Munich, Frankfurt, Leipzig, Berlin, Praha and Vienna; it opened in 1930.

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Address: Dolac 8, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia

Ban Jelačić Square is an Austro-Hungarian style square in the city of Zagreb, named after ban Josip Jelačić, the Ban of Croatia between 1848 and 1859 who was celebrated for his military campaigns during the 1848 revolutions.

The square was founded in the 17th century with an original name of Harmica, but renamed to its current name in 1848. During the 1860’s, a statue of ban Josip Jelačić on a horse was erected but removed in 1947 by the new Communist government of Yugoslavia.

Today, the Ban Jelačić Square, located just down from Zagreb’s old city, is a popular meeting point for locals and travellers today and is only accessed on foot or by tram; cars were banned in 1975. During the 1980’s the square has a mass renovation and during the 1990’s following the breakup of Yugoslavia and after 1990 elections in Croatia, the statue of Ban Jelačić was returned to its former glory in the centre of the square.

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Address: Trg bana Josipa Jelačića, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia

The Church of St. Mark is one of the oldest buildings in Zagreb and an iconic symbol of the capital. Built in the 13th century, only the bell-tower and a window in the south wall have been preserved. Further additions were made during the 14th century such as the Gothic south portal, one of the church’s most valuable parts.

Perhaps the most unique and recognisable feature of the church is the colourful tiled roof, constructed in 1880 which depicts the medieval coat of arms of Croatia, Dalmatia and Slavonia on the left side, and the emblem of Zagreb on the right.

The church was reconstructed in the 19th century by Viennese architects and underwent further reconstruction in the 20th century when the walls were painted and the altar was decorated with works of famous sculptor Ivan Mestrovic.

The church is only open as mass times so be sure to time your visit to be able to see the beautiful interior.

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Address: Trg Sv. Marka 5, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia

Declared a cathedral in 1093 by King Ladislaus, elaborate construction on the church was completed in 1217 long after his death. The cathedral was attacked by Mongols and restored before the Ottoman Empire began the invasion of Croatia in the 15th century. In an effort to protect the cathedral, fortification began almost immediately, some of which can still be seen today.

With the anticipation of the return of the Ottoman’s, a watchtower was built behind the cathedral in order to protect it. However, after the earthquake of 1880, the tower was damaged beyond repair, the rest of the church was restored in a Neo-Gothic style, including an addition of two spires.

While the cathedral has undergone much restoration over the years which have resulted in grandeur and functionality, great efforts still go towards restoring it to its original state. guided

Address: 10000, Zagreb, Croatia

Hotel Dubrovnik is a hotel in Zagreb located on the main city square of Ban Jelačić. Built in 1929, the hotel understands the true mixture between traditional values and modern comfort.

The guests are offered not only superior comfort but also the opportunity to simply step out into the heart of all Zagreb’s happenings.

Indulge yourself with exquisite delicacies in the centre of the city. Hotel Dubrovnik Cafe and American Steak & Grill House will satisfy your needs, from breakfast, business lunches, afternoon teas or a favourite cocktail.

Address: HOTEL DUBROVNIK d.d., Gajeva ulica, Zagreb, Croatia

This morning, you’ll drive via the capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana, towards Postojna Cave to visit the 21-kilometre-long cave with an underground train ride, the number one attraction in Slovenia. In the afternoon, you’ll arrive in Ljubljana and walk along the Ljubljanica River to explore the vibrant farmers market and other interesting sites in this tiny European capital such as the Dragon Bridge and the Ljubljana Castle which dominates the city.

From: Zagreb
To: Ljubljana

Carved out by the Pivka River, the Postojna Cave is a 24,340-metre long karst cave and one of the world’s most captivating cave systems. It’s home to stunning cave formations and diverse fauna and is Slovenia’s second largest cave system, after the Migovec System.

Since its first discovery in the 17th century by a studying pioneer of karst phenomena, the Postojna Cave has become a huge attraction for explorers and a great point of reference for speleology, the study of caves.

The Postojna Cave is filled with towering mountains, murmuring rivers and vast subterranean halls and makes quite the adventure. Here, you can take a ride on the underground train which takes you through this fascinating subterranean paradise which has been shaped over millions of years by tiny droplets of water.

The Postojna Cave is also home to the famous Predjama Castle, the world’s largest cave castle.

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Address: Jamska cesta 30, 6230 Postojna, Slovenia

As Slovenia’s capital and largest city, Ljubljana is a charming city which has been the centre of the country’s economic and political dealings since 1991 when Slovenia became independent from the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia.

Ljubljana dates back to Roman times and sat upon a popular trade during the 12th century. Nowadays, Ljubljana is famous for its attractive medieval old town, its Roman ruins, the winding Ljubljanica River lined with outdoor cafes and the Ljubljana castle which boasts stunning views over the city and the Alps.

The city of Ljubljana is also well-known for its abundance of green spaces, such as Tivoli Park, the wide range of restaurants and cafés, and the architecture which has been influenced by neighbouring Italian and Viennese styles. Ljubljana also has many museums, including the National Museum of Slovenia, displaying historic exhibition.

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Address: Ljubljana, Slovenia

Perched on a hill for 900 years, Ljubljana Castle has some of the best views of the city, with lookout points from the Outlook Tower and the ramparts.

Within the castle grounds, you’ll be given detailed insight into Slovenian history with creative additions of puppetry and preserved rooms such as the chapel as more visual additions to the museum.

Connected through the funicular railway, interestingly, the railway also acts as a major venue for the city, with two restaurants, a nightclub, a cafe and an exhibition space that frequently hosts art exhibitions.

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Address: Grajska planota 1, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

Built at the beginning of the 20th century as part of an urban renovation of Ljubljana, the Dragon Bridge is a concrete bridge in Vienna Secession style that straddles the Ljubljanica River.

The Dragon Bridge replaced an earlier oak bridge named Butcher’s Bridge which was built in 1819 but damaged during an earthquake in the latter part of the 19th century. It was decided that a reinforced concrete bridge would replace it and would be intended for motorised traffic. The bridge opened to traffic in 1901 and was completed in 1907.

Its name is derived from the dragons that were designed and added by architect Giorgio Zaninovich.

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Address: Resljeva cesta 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

The dream was to add a new asset to the selection of hotels in Ljubljana: a hotel capable of providing all the services of large hotels but with a distinct, intimate atmosphere that can only be created by a small property where the staff can pay special attention to each and every guest.

Hotel Cubo is housed in a historic, protected building that has been enriched with a fresh, modern design to create an impressive contrast. They have always been aware of the fact that an excellent location, spacious rooms and select furnishings represent only a part of what a superior hotel must offer its guests. At Cubo, service comes first, and this is why there is a focus on staff and their willingness to perform with excellence, dedication and heart, all the while welcoming guests as if they have just arrived in their own homes.

Address: Cubo, Slovenska cesta, Ljubljana, Slovenia

In the morning, you will head to the beautiful Lake Bohinj which surrounded by the Julian Alps. Here, you’ll take a lift to the top of Mount Vogel, 1,535 metres above ground, for a beautiful panoramic view. In the afternoon, you will head to a true Slovenian paradise, Lake Bled, to visit the island with a picturesque church on it and the mighty 11th-century castle, which sits 130 metres above the lake.

From: Ljubljana
To: Lake Bohinj

In a remote part of the Julian Alps within the Bohinj Valley is where you’ll find the stunning blue-green waters of Lake Bohinj. Its beauty rivals that of Lake Bled, just 26 kilometres away, however, Lake Bohinj is somewhat less glamorous and much more authentic than Bled.

Most visitors to Lake Bohinj are overwhelmed by its stillness and serenity. People come here to chill out, swim in the crystal waters, cycle and walk the trails as well as go kayaking and horse riding in the midst of the stunning scenery.

The region of Bohinj, home to sheep- and goat-herding villages, became isolated for centuries due to poor roads and vertiginous terrain. Even the hamlet named Ukanc on Lake Bohinj’s shore loosely translates to ‘end of the world’. At the beginning of the 20th century, new infrastructure was added included a railway along Lake Bohinj’s shores which once again connected the town.

Although it is now not as difficult to reach Lake Bohinj, the slow pace of life and tranquillity of the past remains true in this region.

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Address: Lake Bohinj, 4265 Bohinjsko jezero, Slovenia

Lake Bled is a large alpine lake in the Julian Alps adjacent to the town of Bled. Its natural beauty and stories of legends associated with the lake have drawn visitors to this world-renowned paradise for centuries.

The blue-green lake features a stunning picturesque church on an island in the middle of it. It is surrounded by some of the highest peaks of the Julian Alps, and the backdrop of Lake Bled features a stunning medieval castle on the rocky cliffs behind it.

The lake was formed by a basin which was later carved by the Bohinj glacier. The giant rock in the middle of the basin formed an obstacle for the glacier and this rock later became the island which stands in the middle of the lake today. The lake measured 2.12 kilometres long and 1.3 kilometres wide and the maximum depth is 30.6 metres making it a popular choice with divers.

Lake Bled is a popular destination for honeymooners, travellers and those that love to explore the area by hiking, biking, watersports and canyoning possibilities.

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Address: Lake Bled, 4260 Bled, Slovenia

Elegance and respect for nature are the hallmarks of Hotel Astoria. In the magical setting of Lake Bled, a refined and environmentally aware clientele will find the ideal place for relaxing holidays and weekend getaways.

Each of the rooms, designed with comfort and ecosustainability in mind, is equipped with all the modern amenities. There is also a wellness centre at the hotel offering a range of treatments including massages and facials, as well as a fitness centre.

You can also make yourself comfortable at the lively café and enjoy a catering service on the elegant and sunny outdoor terrace. A visit to the hotel’s restaurant is also a must. The à la carte menu consists of seasonal and local dishes that correspond to the Taste Bled movement promoting regional culinary delights, as well as a variety of selected wellness plates.

Address: Hotel Astoria Bled, Prešernova cesta, Bled, Slovenia

Today, you’ll head into the heart of Julian Alps and ascend to the top of the Vršič mountain pass, 1,611 metres high. On the other side, you’ll enter into the beautiful Soča Valley and drive along the gorgeous emerald river that used to be frontline during WWI. In the afternoon, you’ll stop among the vineyards of Goriška Brda for some wine and lunch, before you arrive in Venice signalling the end of your trip. We hope you enjoyed this wonderful journey to Slovenia and Croatia from Venice!.

The highest in the East Julian Alps, the Vršič Pass was built by Russian POW’s during the First World War. The winding road has stunning views down into the valley and across to Mount Prisojnik among other summits along the way.

One of the most ideal places to stop along the route, this part of the road is lined with cabins for those looking to stop for a snack and a drink. For those looking to do some hiking, you can attempt the summit of the same name.

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Address: Vršič Pass, 5232 Soča, Slovenia

A stunning valley home to the 138-kilometre long river that flows through western Slovenia and northeastern Italy, Soca Valley is a place of stunning natural beauty.

Renowned for its winding turquoise waters and contrasting lush green vegetation which stretches up the valley, Soca Valley was once the frontline between Austro-Hungarian and Italian army during WWII.

Popular with hikers for its beautiful trails and avid anglers for its rare fish and conservation practises, Soca Valley is not to be missed when travelling this part of Slovenia.

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Address: Vršič Pass, Soča, Slovenia

Against the backdrop of age-old tradition imbued with contemporary influences, visitors are entertained with guided tours of the cellar and tutored tasting of the wines.

Klet Brda Wine is renowned for its distinctive style and appreciated by wine lovers in Slovenia and 26 countries around the world.

The winery unites 400 families, who have been working together for over fifty years and have turned local wine making into a success story.

Their mission is to capture in the wines the uniqueness of the Brda terroir along with a deep respect for nature and its cycles; superior quality is born in the vineyard.

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Address: Zadružna cesta 9, 5212 Dobrovo v Brdih, Slovenia

From: Goriška cesta
To: Venice

Your driver will take you back to Venice signalling the end of your trip.