Among today’s hottest travel destinations, Croatia and Slovenia offer beautiful scenery, sophisticated cities, and colorful cultural traditions. In Croatia tour “the new Riviera,” the Dalmatian Coast, with its sandy beaches, rocky coastline and splendid cities. Wander along the cobblestone streets of charming little villages, where life moves at the slow pace of “Old Europe,” and stroll the sidewalks of bustling modern cities where a treasured past blends artfully with the present. Take in centuries of history at the Roman ruins of Salona, and at UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the walled city of Dubrovnik and Diocletian’s Palace in Split. Admire the scenic beauty of Croatia and Slovenia during visits to Krka National Park, the lovely island of Hvar, and charming lakeside Bled, and discover the historic yet cosmopolitan capital cities of Zagreb and Ljubljana. Our Croatia tour explores the best of this fascinating area of Europe, where you'll find something intriguing around every corner.

2008 Itinerary

Day 1 – Welcome to Dubrovnik!
Welcome to the ancient walled city of Dubrovnik! Your Croatia tour begins at 6:30 p.m. at the Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik. A transfer is included from Dubrovnik Airport to the Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik. Surrounded by 800-year-old city walls, this gem of a city is known around the world for its signature terra cotta roofs, narrow cobblestone streets, carefully preserved medieval ambiance and lively atmosphere. Your hotel is ideally located close to the historic heart of this enchanting city. Meet your Tauck Director and your fellow travelers at a welcome reception and dinner this evening.
Meals: Dinner
Lodging: Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik, Croatia

Day 2 – The Gem of the Adriatic
With its stunning location on the shores of the Adriatic Sea, its carefully preserved and restored icons and its charm, medieval Dubrovnik is truly a precious gem. Sightseeing in this UNESCO World Heritage Site features a walking tour including the glorious main square, the Rector’s Palace, stunning Dubrovnik Cathedral and both the Dominican and Franciscan monasteries; Dubrovnik’s many treasures reveal traces of the Romans, Byzantines, Hungarians and Venetians who have ruled here over the centuries. Attend a lecture on Croatia’s recent past and what the future may hold for this intriguing country. A wine tasting and dinner accompanied by a group of talented local guitarists this evening will be a highlight of your Croatia tour.
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Lodging: Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik, Croatia

Day 3 – Croatian island life
After a scenic drive along the Dalmatian Coast, board a ferry bound for the lovely island of Hvar, known for its temperate climate, great beaches, fragrant fields of lavender and artistic treasures. Remnants of the Romans, Byzantines, and Venetians, each of whom ruled the island at different points in history, can still be seen. After a visit to the Hvar Fortress to take in the scenic panorama visible from its ramparts, arrive at your hotel, conveniently located in the pedestrian zone of Hvar on the waterfront.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Hotel Adriana, Hvar, Croatia

Day 4 – A Croatian ghost town
Begin the day with some sightseeing in the town of Hvar, including visits to the Cathedral of St. Stephen, which houses many works of art, and the Franciscan Monastery, dating from 1461. During your Croatia tour, discover more of Hvar's rich history during a walk around the charming town of Stari Grad, which dates back to the 4th century BC. A short drive by van along a dirt road leads to Malo Grablje, a small village abandoned decades ago; wander through the village before partaking in a luncheon featuring traditional Hvar cuisine. If the weather cooperates, lovely views will complement your dining experience; the rest of the day is at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Lodging: Hotel Adriana, Hvar, Croatia

Day 5 – Sail to Split
A relaxing two-hour ferry cruise from Hvar provides views of other islands en route to the spectacular city of Split. Exploring the awesome historical sights in Split is a highlight of any Croatia tour. Split grew in and around Roman ruins dating to the 3rd century, and the entire historic center of the town lies within the walls of the palace of the Roman Emperor Diocletian. Over 2,000 people still live within the palace walls today. While visiting Diocletian’s Palace, explore an ancient cathedral that was once Diocletian’s mausoleum.
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Lodging: Le Méridien Lav, Split, Podstrana, Croatia

Day 6 – Art and antiquities
Visit the art gallery of one of Croatia’s most famous sculptors, Ivan Mestrovic, to view his notable works, then travel to the ancient ruins of the Roman Emperor Diocletian's home town of Salona (Solin), featuring a Roman amphitheatre dating to the 2nd century AD. Continue to the small seaside town of Omis, and on through the dramatic Cetina River Canyon. After lunch, return to your beachfront resort for an afternoon at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Le Méridien Lav, Split, Podstrana, Croatia

Day 7 – Countryside and cityscapes
Today, your Croatia tour takes you to Krka National Park, established to protect the beautiful River Krka. A walk through peaceful forests, past ancient water mills and numerous waterfalls leads to the impressive Skradinski Falls. Travel by boat to Skradin for lunch before journeying on to Croatia’s capital, beautiful Zagreb. Your hotel, one of the most famous and gracious buildings in Zagreb, is located in the midst of the city, close to museums and parks.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: The Regent Esplanade Zagreb, Croatia

Day 8 – Where eastern and western Europe meet
Culturally sophisticated Zagreb unfolds before you during this morning’s sightseeing tour. Located in the heart of Croatia, eastern and western Europe converge in Zagreb and the city has played a significant political and cultural role for centuries. Discover Mirogoj Park Cemetery, the largest in Croatia and thought to be one of the most beautiful cemeteries in all of Europe. It is known for its impressive statuary and peaceful arcades. Visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral to view its many treasures and explore the Dolac open-air market before spending the remainder of the day enjoying this lovely city as you choose.
Meals: Breakfast
Lodging: The Regent Esplanade Zagreb, Croatia

Day 9 – The architectural riches of Ljubljana
Your Croatia tour travels through the spectacular Croatian highlands amidst lovely alpine views dotted with vineyards and medieval castles en route to Slovenia’s intriguing capital city, Ljubljana. Its architectural legacies include Roman, Baroque and Art Nouveau influences. But, Ljubljana’s cityscape also bears the seal of one man — native-born architect Joze Plecnik, whose creativity and imagination were largely responsible for transforming the former provincial town into a beautiful and sophisticated city most worthy of being Slovenia’s capital; his influence and talent also added much to the beauty of Vienna and Prague. Discover the distinctive beauty of this city on a walking tour highlighting some of Ljubljana’s architectural masterpieces.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Lodging: Grand Hotel Union Executive, Ljubjana, Slovenia

Day 10 – Into the mountains of Slovenia
A short drive into the mountains past stunning Vintgar Gorge leads to the charming resort village of Bled, nestled high above its own sparkling lake. Explore fascinating Bled Castle, where construction began in the Middle Ages and continued into the Baroque period; the castle offers great views of the beautiful Baroque St. Mary’s Church, set on a mystical island in the middle of Lake Bled that's rumored to have been created by fairies eons ago. Back in Ljubljana this evening, please join us at a historic restaurant for a farewell reception and dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Grand Hotel Union Executive, Ljubjana, Slovenia

Day 11 – Journey Home
Your Slovenia and Croatia tour ends in Ljubljana, Slovenia. A transfer is included from the Grand Hotel Union Executive to the Ljubljana Airport. We wish you a safe and pleasant homeward journey.
Meals: Breakfast

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Departure Dates

May 11, 18, 29
Jun 1, 12
Jul 3, 17
Aug 7, 14, 18, 25, 28
Oct 5, 9, 16

Prices

11 Days from $4,160 plus airfare

23 meals included.

International Air is Additional – Call Tauck for special rates on international air for travel originating in the U.S. (subject to availability).

Please ask at time of booking about additional hotel nights before your tour begins and about our comprehensive Guest Protection Plan.

All prices are per person in U.S. dollars.