Balkan Extended: Italy – Slovenia and Croatia
EXPERIENCE MORE is at the core of our travel philosophy, elevating each tour beyond the ordinary. These carefully curated moments enrich our itineraries, offering deeper insights and unique perspectives of every destination. From exclusive cultural encounters to hidden local gems, EXPERIENCE MORE ensures each journey is unforgettable and engaging.
Some of our experiences included in the tour:
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- Murano Glass Factory Day 3
- Goriška Hills Wine Tasting Day 5
- Oyster & Seashell Tasting Day 7
Day 1: Welcome to Venice
Venice(Mestre)
Welcome to Mestre, the gateway to Venice’s timeless beauty and enchanting canals. Upon your arrival on the mainland, you’ll check–in to your hotel and have some time to relax and refresh. In the evening, you’ll meet your guide, who will introduce you to the upcoming tour and provide you with a special travel card, which offers unlimited access to Venice’s water and land transportation, allowing you to explore the city at your leisure. For those who wish, the guide will accompany you to Venice, where you can enjoy the evening atmosphere of this magical place. You may choose to enjoy a delightful dinner at one of the local restaurants, with the experience being entirely at your own leisure and arrangement.
Overnight: Venice
Day 2: The Timeless Venice
Budapest
Prepare for an enchanting journey through Venice, a city of romance and mystery. Your adventure begins with a scenic ride along the Grand Canal, where the timeless beauty of Venice unfolds with every turn.
Feel the energy of the iconic St. Mark‘s Square, the pulsating heart of Venice, where every step echoes with the grandeur of the past. Admire the splendour of St. Mark‘s Basilica with its luminous mosaics and intricate architecture, a testament to the city’s opulence and power during the Middle Ages, while nearby the majestic Doge‘s Palace stands as a symbol of Venice’s storied history, where art, politics, and intrigue once intertwined.
As you wander through the labyrinthine streets, cross the Rialto Bridge, a centrepiece famously depicted in Shakespeare’s “The Merchant of Venice”, offering captivating views of this island-city. Picture the days of Casanova as you meander through narrow alleyways, each turn revealing a new scene of masked figures, hidden courtyards, and artistic treasures.
After the city tour, if you wish to make your day even more special, we suggest taking a gondola ride through the canals, where you can admire the fading light reflecting off the water and the elegant architecture that defines this timeless city. As evening falls, Venice transforms into a magical realm. Consider dining at a local restaurant, where the flavours of the sea blend with rich Italian traditions. This is Venice – a place where the past and present merge into an unforgettable poetic experience.
Overnight: Venice
Day 3: The Islands of Venice
Venice – Murano – Burano – Ljubljana
After check-out, we continue our Venetian adventure toward the two most famous islands of the Venetian Lagoon.
EXPERIENCE MORE / Murano Glass Factory: Murano is an island renowned worldwide for its exquisite glass production, where you will have an opportunity to visit a local glass factory. Here, you’ll witness skilled artisans transform molten glass into stunning pieces of art through the interesting process of glassblowing. Discover the rich history and learn about the various techniques that have made Murano glass famous for centuries. This experience will deepen your appreciation for the artistry involved, and you may even find a unique souvenir to bring home.
Afterwards, we head to Burano, another delightful island in the Venetian Lagoon, famous for its brightly coloured houses and traditional lace-making. The vividly coloured buildings, painted in a rainbow of hues, create a cheerful and picturesque backdrop, beautifully reflected in the green waters of the canals. Visit Galuppi Square, wander through the quaint streets, explore local shops, and discover the delicate, handcrafted lace that has been a Burano speciality passed down through the generations.
Following our exploration of Venice’s rich craft history, we set our sights on Ljubljana, the magical capital of Slovenia. You will be greeted by the charming blend of historic architecture and modern sustainability initiatives, reflecting Slovenia’s status as an eco-conscious country. After hotel check-in, take some time to relax and begin exploring Ljubljana’s lively atmosphere. Enjoy a taste of the city with its delightful and diverse restaurant options around you.
Overnight: Ljubljana
Day 4: Slovenian Highlights Tour
Ljubljana – Lake Bled – Ljubljana
Start your guided tour around Ljubljana, a picturesque city celebrated for its lush greenery, stunning architecture, and laid-back atmosphere. Nestled between the majestic Julian Alps and the Adriatic Sea, it’s one of the greenest capitals in Europe and home to many tourist attractions, including its dining experiences and numerous museums.
As you stroll along the riverfront, you’ll be introduced to the city’s stunning landmarks, including the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas, the baroque Town Hall, the medieval Mestni Trg (Town Square), Robba’s Fountain, the picturesque central open-air market, and the iconic Triple Bridge. The true essence of Ljubljana unfolds along the banks of the Ljubljanica River, where numerous bridges span its waters, embodying the city’s charm and allure.
During your Slovenia tour, a visit to the alpine gem, Lake Bled, is a must – its beautiful island is the most photographed sight in Slovenia. For centuries, this green pearl of the Slovenian Alps has captivated visitors with its natural beauty and mystical charm. We will take a boat ride on a traditional boat called pletna towards the Church of Saint Mary where you will have a chance to step onto the sacred island and explore its historic church. Use your free time to visit the Bled Castle, perched high above the lake on a rocky cliff, overlooking the lake. Be sure not to miss out on the famous Bled “krempita“, a delectable cream cake best enjoyed against the backdrop of the breathtaking scenery!
Return to Ljubljana and indulge in the city’s rich and diverse gastronomic scene which blends traditional Slovenian flavours with modern culinary trends.
Overnight: Ljubljana
Day 5: The Diversity of Slovenia
Ljubljana – Postojna Cave – Goriška Hills – Portorož
Say goodbye to the capital of Slovenia after hotel check-out.
Just an hour from Ljubljana, Slovenia offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity – a visit to the spectacular limestone Postojna Cave. Board an electric train to explore this unique underground landscape, where you will encounter awe-inspiring stalactites, stalagmites, limestone pools, subterranean gorges, and mesmerising underground waterfalls. As one of Slovenia’s most beloved tourist attractions, a visit to this cave is an absolute must on your journey through Slovenia.
EXPERIENCE MORE / Goriška Hills Wine Tasting: For a full immersion into Slovenian charms, we head towards the Goriška Hills, a region shared between Slovenia and Italia, that seamlessly blends with the neighbouring Italian countryside. This area is famous for its wine production, particularly white wines such as Rebula and Sauvignon. The highlight of the region is the medieval village Šmartno, dating back to the 14th century, where you can travel back to the captivating and picturesque stories of the past and uncover the essence of Brda’s warmth and hospitality. Here, amidst the rolling vineyards and charming views, we will visit an authentic vinery where you will sample one of the region’s finest wines.
Finally, we arrive in Portorož (from the Italian “Portorose”, meaning “rose port”), an attractive Istrian town in Slovenia and one of the largest tourist centres in the Slovenian coastal region, and check-in to our hotel.
Overnight: Portorož
Day 6: Istrian Hilltop Treasures
Portorož – Grožnjan – Motovun – Poreč
Today, we head to Grožnjan, a charming hilltop village, renowned for its vibrant arts scene and enchanting medieval charm. This idyllic town, with its cobblestone streets and well-preserved architecture, has become a haven for artists from around the world. Blend along with the locals as you explore the town’s galleries and workshops, and enjoy the village charm with a drink in hand, savouring the moment before we journey on to our next destination.
EXPERIENCE MORE / Truffles of Istria: Join us for an exciting truffle-hunting demonstration in the picturesque forest, celebrated for its prized white and black truffles. Guided by an expert hunter and his skilled dog, you’ll learn the secrets of finding these culinary treasures. Finish your adventure with a tasting of local truffle-infused cheese and sausages, complemented by a glass of Istrian wine. As you savour these delights, you will hear the tales of truffle cultivation and offer fascinating insights into their unique way of life.
Our journey leads us towards the hidden gem called Motovun. Perched atop a lush hill, this ancient town boasts sweeping views of the verdant Motovun Forest and the rolling plateaus of the Istrian countryside. As you stroll through its narrow, cobblestone streets, you’ll encounter well-preserved medieval architecture, including the iconic town walls and the Church of St. Stephen.
Finally, we check into a hotel in Poreč, where we rest and recharge for the adventures ahead.
Overnight: Poreč
Day 7: The Soul of Istria
Poreč – Rovinj – Lim Bay – Winery – Pula – Poreč
Today, you’ll explore the historic town of Rovinj, often called the gem of Istria. Wander through its picturesque old town, where 18th century Venetian architecture and cobblestone streets weave a tapestry of history and romance. As you explore the winding alleys and vibrant squares, you’ll experience firsthand the timeless allure of Rovinj’s Old Town. From the lively atmosphere of Grisia Street, renowned for its local art and charming shops, to the panoramic vistas that showcase the town’s scenic Mediterranean beauty, Rovinj offers an unforgettable blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty.
EXPERIENCE MORE / Oyster & Seashell Tasting: Following the Istrian coastline, we head to the breathtaking Lim Bay, also known as Lim Channel, a stunning 11-km-long estuary where freshwater meets seawater, creating a haven for marine life. Here, we have selected one of the best seaside restaurants, located near the oyster farm, where you can savour the freshest and finest shellfish, including oysters, mussels, clams, and scallops.
Your gourmet adventure doesn’t end here. As we continue, prepare to uncover more hedonistic gems of the region – its exceptional wines.
EXPERIENCE MORE / Istrian Wine Tasting: Indulge in the charm of another local treasure of Istria: a family-owned winery that captures the heart of Istrian winemaking. After a guided winery tour, immerse yourself in the artistry and passion that infuse every bottle, all set against the enchanting backdrop of Istria’s rolling hills.
The final stop is Pula, a beautiful town possessing a wealth of historical sites and examples of Roman architecture. The star of the show is the remarkably well-preserved Roman amphitheatre, the 6th biggest Roman coliseum in the world. The Temple of Augustus, the Triumphal Arch of Sergius, the Twin Gates and other sites of the old town will make you feel like you have stepped back in time.
As evening approaches, we return to Poreč, reflecting on the day’s discoveries in Istria and the delicious flavours we’ve enjoyed.
Overnight: Split
Day 8: The Devil’s Garden
Poreč – Opatija – Plitvice Lakes NP
Today, we bid farewell to the stunning Istrian peninsula, and after check-out we head towards Opatija, an aristocratic town renowned for its distinct history, architecture, and lively atmosphere. Enjoy a relaxing coffee break and soak up the charm of Opatija as you stroll along the famous Lungomare promenade, which offers stunning panoramic sea views.
As we proceed on our journey, let the picturesque countryside unfold before you. Pass through charming villages, admire rolling hills, and catch glimpses of the sparkling Adriatic Sea, before entering the mountainous landscape surrounding our next stop.
Start exploring Plitvice Lakes National Park, a beautiful park that contains 16 interconnected cascading lakes. On old maps, it was called “Devil’s Garden” and it is the first site in the Balkans to get UNESCO World Heritage status. You will enjoy a 3-hour guided tour that includes a visit to the upper and lower lakes. Although swimming is not allowed, you’ll have time to relax at one of the nearby restaurants, surrounded by the untouched beauty of this lush paradise.
Soak in the nature as you check-in to your hotel, rest and unwind.
Overnight: Plitvice
Day 9: Dalmatian Coastal Charm
Plitvice Lakes NP – Trogir – Split
As you leave Plitvice Lakes and check-out, the tour continues to the coastal part of Croatia. The first part of the day will be devoted to the beautiful town of Trogir. Located on a tiny island, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts beautiful architecture, stunning sea views, and palm trees that spread along its pleasant waterfront promenade. Watch out, or you will find yourself lost in medieval times. Walking its charming streets, you will find yourself immersed in the blend of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Look out for the Cathedral of Saint Lawrence, the Clock Tower, the Loggia, the Land Gate, Kamerlengo Castle and Saint Mark’s Tower.
The day concludes in Split, the largest city in Dalmatia, with 1,700 years of remarkably preserved history. Enter through the Golden Gate and wander through narrow cobblestone streets, where bustling markets, charming cafés, and hidden courtyards reveal the rich history and timeless grandeur of the Diocletian’s Palace. Visit the former Temple of Jupiter in the heart of the imperial complex, followed by the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, the oldest Catholic cathedral still in its original structure. Stroll along the lively Riva promenade, soaking up the Mediterranean sun and vibrant atmosphere. Whether exploring its rich history, savouring fresh seafood, or simply unwinding by the sea, Split captivates with its unique charm and dynamic energy. End the day with a hotel check-in.
Overnight: Plitvice
Day 10: Hvar Island Adventures
Split – Hvar Island – Split
To start your day, you will take a short drive to the ferry port and board a high-speed catamaran that brings you to the queen of the Croatian islands – Hvar, so much more than just the glitz and glamour of its main town. Take in the azure blue seascape as you journey through the Splitska Vrata to Hvar Island.
A town built in wonderful Venetian architecture style, the island-city of Hvar is famous for its traffic-free cobbled streets, filled up with nice restaurants and bars. During the walking tour you’ll see the harbour, Renaissance Cathedral, Benedictine Convent, Franciscan monastery, and Church of Our Lady of Mercy.
We’ve set aside plenty of free time for you to fully enjoy all that the island has to offer. Based on your interests, we recommend you to: embark on a boat excursion to discover the enchanting Pakleni Islands, relax on the sun-kissed beaches, explore the picturesque trails to Milna Bay for a memorable adventure or enjoy a delightful Mediterranean lunch at a local restaurant.
In the late afternoon, you’ll head back to Split. *Please note that the departure timing may vary depending on the season.
Overnight: Split
Day 11: Farewell, Split
Split
After hotel check-out, it is time to conclude your Balkan tour. As most of our clients decide to extend their trip within their own organisation, transfer to the airport at the end of the tour is not included in the overall price. Any guests who would like Balkan&more to organise a departure transfer on their behalf are welcome to contact us. End of services.
*Private tours are available upon request. Private departures can be scheduled on any day of the year. For more information, please contact us via office@serbia-touroperator.com.
General inclusions // Valid both for Standard and Superior Package:
- Airport arrival transfer
- All sightseeing tours and transfers that are included in the itinerary, except those marked as ‘optional excursion’
- Entrance tickets to the Vaporetto 48h transportation ticket in Venice, Postojna Cave, Pula Arena, Catamaran Split – Hvar – Split, NP Plitvice Lakes
- 3 hour tour to Plitvice Lakes National Park: includes entrance tickets, boat ride and tram ride
- Experiences:
Glass Factory experience on the Murano Island (Murano Glass Factory); Wine tasting in a local winery in Western Slovenia (Goriška Hills Wine Tasting); Truffle tasting in Croatian Istria (Truffles of Istria); Oyster & Seashell Tasting in Croatian Istria (Oyster & Seashell Tasting); Wine tasting in a local winery in Croatian Istria (Istrian Wine Tasting).
- 1 bottle of water (0.5l) daily for each passenger
- Professional tour guidance throughout the tour
- VAT, accommodation taxes and city taxes
- Tour logistics and organization by licensed incoming agency
STANDARD package – Price includes:
- 2 BB in Venice in Leonardo Royal Venice Mestre 4* / Best Western Plus Bologna 4* / Elite & Spa 4* or similar
- 2 BB in Ljubljana in Best Western Premier Slon 4* / Exe Lev 4* / City Ljubljana 4* or similar
- 1 BB in Portorož in Neptun 4*/ Wellness Apollo 4* / Remisens Metropol 5* or similar
- 2 BB in Poreč in Valamar Diamant 4* / Valamar Riviera & Residence 4* / BO Palazzo 4* or similar
- 1 HB in Plitvice Lakes National Park in Zrinka House 4* / Plitvice Inn 4* / Plitvička kuća 4* or similar
- 2 BB in Split in Art 4*/ Globo 4*/ Marul 4* or similar
Regular season
per person€3.189High season
per person €3.359SUPERIOR package – Price includes:
- 2 BB in Venice in Leonardo Royal Venice Mestre 4* / Best Western Plus Bologna 4* / Elite & Spa 4* or similar
- 2 BB in Ljubljana in Eurostars uHotel 4* / Occidental Ljubljana 4* / Grand Plaza & Congress Center 5* or similar
- 1 BB in Portorož in Grand Hotel Portorož 4* / Hotel Slovenia – Terme & Wellness 5* / Grand Hotel Bernardin 5* or similar
- 2 BB in Poreč in Valamar Parentino Hotel 4* / Martis Forum Heritage Hotel 4* / Hotel Parentium Plava Laguna 4* or similar
- 1 HB in Plitvice Lakes National Park in in Degenija 4* / 16 Lakes 4* / Palcich 4* or similar
- 2 BB in Split in Luxe 4* / Marmont Heritage 4*/ AC Marriott 4* or similar
Regular season
per person €3.679High season
per person €3.909Notices
Prices for single and triple room; Child policy
Standard package supplements:
- 1/1 Room supplement (on basic price): €850 in Regular season; €970 in High season.
- 1/3 Room reduction (per person on basic price): – €90 in Regular season; – €110 in High season.
Superior package supplements:
- 1/1 Room supplement (on basic price): €1.190 in Regular season; €1.360 in High season.
- 1/3 Room reduction (per person on basic price): – €110 in Regular season; – €130 in High season.
Child policy (related to both packages):
- Child from 0 to 2 years old – FREE of charge.
- Child from 2 to 12 years old, in existing bed – 50% discount on basic price.
- Child from 2 to 12 years old, in extra bed – 1/3 Room Reduction Policy.
- Child from 12 years old and above – 1/3 Room Reduction Policy.
Important tour information
- Tour duration: 11 days.
- Tips and porterage services are not included in price.
- Final choice of the hotels depends on current availability. Tour organizer reserves the right to change the hotel due to availability reasons, but warrants the same category, service quality and similar location of the accommodation unit.
*Due to limited choice of accommodation units at Plitvice, in case of unavailability in high season the overnight will be organized in closest nearby accommodation, - Minimum number of passengers needed for guaranteed tour departure: 1.
- Tour organizer reserves the right to change the itinerary of the tour due to unexpected slow-moving traffic at international borders. These changes will not affect the basic itinerary.
- It is the responsibility of the passengers to get acquainted with visa requirements of all the countries they are travelling to or will be in transit
- General Travel Conditions issued on January 25, 2019 by “Tour Operator doo” and reconciled with YUTA standards are valid for this program.
Cancellation by the Passenger
If you or any member of your party wishes to cancel your tour, you should notify us or the travel agent you made the booking with, in written. If you cancel the tour we will then apply refund policy as defined below. Cancellation schedule will be applied starting the date of written notification receipt. The refund amounts shown represent a percentage of the total tour price.
For cancellation up to 60 days before departure – 100% refund.
For cancellation from 59 days till 46 days before departure – 90% refund.
For cancellation from 45 days till 31 days before departure – 80% refund.
For cancellation from 30 days till 16 days before departure – 70% refund.
For cancellation from 15 days till 8 days before departure – 50% refund.
For cancellation from 7 days till the day of departure – 0% refund.
Beside all standard reasons, the above stated cancellation policy will also apply if tour participant cancels the tour for a reason with medical grounds, visa issuance, jury service etc.
