Country Roads of Croatia

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Rey Alton, Travel Agent in Bellaire, TX

Rey Alton

Bellaire, TX Travel Agent
Super Agent

Rey Alton

Bellaire, TX · 25+ Years of Experience

A full-service Travel Leaders Associate Agency
5.0
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98% Recommended
Rey has booked several domestic and international trips for me over the years. Each time the experience was fantastic. Rey is not only a knowledgeable and... Read More >
COUNTRIES VISITED:Croatia, Montenegro, Slovenia
PLACES VISITED:Dubrovnik, Hvar, Korcula, Opatija, Plitvice Lakes, Postojna, Zagreb
SUGGESTED DURATION:14 Days
Embark on an unforgettable 14-day journey through Croatia and beyond, exploring stunning cities, charming islands, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Start in Zagreb, where you’ll explore its historic streets, before venturing into Slovenia to discover the awe-inspiring Postojna Caves. Continue your adventure through the scenic Istrian peninsula, and explore the UNESCO-listed Plitvice Lakes National Park. Experience the beauty of Croatia's Dalmatian Coast, with visits to Split, Hvar, Korcula, and the ancient city of Dubrovnik, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” Along the way, enjoy authentic dining experiences, leisurely explorations, and optional excursions, including a visit to Montenegro, making this trip the perfect blend of culture, history, and natural wonders.
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DAY1
Zagreb
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Welcome to Zagreb
Your Croatian adventure begins in the Capital, Zagreb. Relax and settle in or perhaps head for the romantic chestnut-lined Stross Promenade for your first views over the city. Join your Travel Director for dinner, with the opportunity to get to know your fellow travelers over a pleasant evening with wine.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Arrival transfer from the airport.
Welcome meeting at 17:30 with your Travel Director.
Dinner with wine at Sheraton Zagreb.
DAY2
Zagreb
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Zagreb’s Twin Towns
Join your Local Expert to explore the two-tiered capital of Croatia. Take a walk and see the art Pavillion, the academy of Sciences and Art and pass Zrinjevac Park. We then board the city's funicular to St. Mark's Church and the Lotršcak Tower, take a walk back down through the Stone gate and back to the Square. The afternoon is at leisure. Relax and enjoy your hotel's amenities or perhaps take an Optional Experience.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Guided tour of Zagreb with a local expert.
Visit Donji Grad (Lower Town), Ban Josip Jelacic Square, and the cathedral.
Funicular ride to Gornji Grad (Upper Town) to see St. Mark's Church and Lotršcak Tower.
Afternoon at leisure.
DAY3
Postojna
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Opatija
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Postojna Caves and on to Opatija
Venture into Slovenia to visit the world-famous Postojna Caves. Step aboard the cave train and descend into a subterranean world of stunning stalactites, stalagmites, columns and curtains. Marvel at the five-meter tall Brilliant, the cave's most beautiful stalagmite. Return to Croatia in your hotel in Opatija.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Visit Postojna Caves in Slovenia.
Continue to Opatija for overnight stay.
DAY4
Croatia
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Discover the Jewels of Istria
Cross the heart-shaped peninsula to explore the Jewels of Istria with your Local Expert. Visit the well-preserved first-century arena at Pula, scene of brutal gladiatorial battles in Roman times. Continue to the charming old town of Rovinj, rising directly from the sea. Wander through the cobbled streets lined with tempting shops, pastel-colored bars and sidewalk cafes.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Explore Istria with visits to Pula and Rovinj.
See the Roman amphitheater in Pula and the charming old town of Rovinj.
Return to Opatija.
DAY5
Plitvice Lakes
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Pristine Plitvice Lakes National Park
Enjoy the scenery of the Adriatic coast in the morning, journey past sparkling deep blue seas, studded with rocky islands, before heading inland to visit one of Europe’s great natural wonders. Explore Plitvice with Insight Choice. Choose between two MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences: Join a Local Expert to explore Plitvice Lakes National Park and learn how the site actively carries out research to monitor the natural habitat of species. Alternatively meet one of the women behind the Tara Community Center, who produce handicrafts, enabling employment and engagement in the community.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Travel to Plitvice Lakes National Park.
Choose between activities focused on environmental conservation or local community engagement.
Overnight at Hotel Lyra.
DAY6
Plitvice Lakes
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The Dalmatian Coast to Split
The green forests of Plitvice Lakes National Park give way to pebble-dashed shores lapped by turquoise waters. Walk through the Roman Ruins and market to see the sea organ of Zadar. Witness the dramatic change in landscape, as you travel through Mediterranean olive groves on your way to Trogir, a city founded by the Greeks in 3rd century B.C. Admire the cathedral and Renaissance Cipiko Palace before continuing to the historic city of Solin. In the evening, don't miss the opportunity of dinner in a traditional konoba.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Journey to Split via Zadar and Trogir.
Explore Zadar's Sea Organ and Trogir's historical sites.
Dinner in a traditional konoba in Solin.
DAY7
Hvar
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Island Hopping to Hvar
The Roman Emperor Diocletian built his palace here, and today it forms the heart of the Old Town of Split. With your Local Expert, explore the 1,700 year-old palace cellars and learn the story of the infamous emperor. Continue through the labyrinthine streets and arcaded squares to see St. Duje's, originally Diocletian's Mausoleum, and the Temple of Jupiter, which today is a baptistery, as well as the Golden Gate. Your island-hopping adventure begins here. Cross the azure waters of the Adriatic to spend two nights on Hvar, famed for being the sunniest island in the country and boasting an interior dotted with lofty mountain peaks and aromatic ?elds of lavender.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Explore Split's Diocletian's Palace and old town.
Ferry to Hvar, known for its sunny weather and lavender fields.
Dinner with wine at Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort.
DAY8
Hvar
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Exploring the Island of Hvar
Enjoy a full day at leisure, as you explore the hidden coves, secluded beaches, old monasteries and villages of Hvar. Perhaps stroll around seaside Stari Grad, known for being one of Europe’s oldest towns and a UNESCO World Heritage Site? Maybe visit the local museum with its impressive collection of archeological finds dating back to Greek antiquity or enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant? You could even see the glitz and glamour of Hvar Town with its yacht-lined marinas, famous for being the trendy playground of the rich and famous.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Full day at leisure to explore Hvar Island.
Optional activities include visiting Stari Grad or Hvar Town.
DAY9
Korcula
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On the Trail of Marco Polo to Korcula
Cruise back to the mainland and continue your journey to the island of Korcula, known for its grace, history and rich culture. The perfect place for relaxing, the island is filled with quiet coves and small beaches that dot the south coastline. This evening, dinner will be at the hotel.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Ferry to Korcula.
Evening dinner at the hotel.
DAY10
Korcula
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Captivating Korcula
In the morning, join a knowledgeable Local Expert for a walking tour of the Old Town. Marvel at spectacular views of the mainland as you stroll towards the main square of Korcula where the Cathedral of St. Mark dominates the ancient skyline. Hear about local legends and history from your Local Expert, stopping by the Town Museum, the Bishop’s Palace with its treasury collection and the Town Hall. Visit the ruins of the house where according to local legend Marco Polo was born.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Guided walking tour of Korcula Old Town.
Visit Marco Polo's alleged birthplace and other historical sites.
Afternoon at leisure.
DAY11
Dubrovnik
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Dubrovnik, Pearl of the Adriatic
Journey to the beautiful southern slopes of the Pelješac Peninsula. Weather permitting, cruise the tranquil waters of the bay of Mali Ston and admire the surrounding untouched natural beauty, as you enjoy a glass of traditional Croatian brandy. Stop at a shellfish farm and meet a local oyster farmer, to learn about the cultivation and harvest of oysters. Enjoy a delicious Sea-to-Table tasting of the fresh shellfish, accompanied by a glass of wine.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Journey to Dubrovnik via Pelješac Peninsula.
Visit Mali Ston for oyster farming and tasting.
Explore Dubrovnik's Old Town with a local expert.
DAY12
Montenegro
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Optional Montenegro Experience
Spend the day at your leisure or enjoy an optional visit to Montenegro, traveling along the coast to the pretty port town of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A photographer's dream, capture one of the most beautiful parts of the bay and learn about some of the compelling history of this area. Return to Dubrovnik and enjoy an evening at your leisure. Perhaps start at a trendy wine bar, followed by dinner at a romantic sidewalk cafe?
HIGHLIGHTS:
Optional day trip to Kotor, Montenegro (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
Evening at leisure in Dubrovnik.
DAY13
Dubrovnik
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Dubrovnik at Leisure
Make the most of a day at leisure in the Pearl of the Adriatic. Relax by the pool, shop in the markets or perhaps take the opportunity to visit Cavtat, one of the most enchanting seaside resorts in Croatia. This evening, should weather permit, you're invited to embark on a dazzling cruise around the fabled bay of Dubrovnik. Savor authentic flavors of local specialties over dinner with your fellow travelers.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Free day in Dubrovnik to relax or explore Cavtat.
Evening cruise around Dubrovnik Bay and farewell dinner.
DAY14
Dubrovnik
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Depart Dubrovnik
Your journey comes to an end after breakfast.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Departure transfer after breakfast.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Explore Croatia’s highlights on a 14-day journey, from Zagreb’s historic streets to the stunning Dalmatian Coast and Dubrovnik. Enjoy iconic landmarks, beautiful islands, and authentic local experiences.