fw_rhoutirdykcu.jpg

Enjoy the food and culture of Slovenia, Croatia, and Montenegro on a tour filled with local charm and character

from US $ 17270 pp

Slovenia Map

Tour Highlights

Croatian Wine Tasting

Medieval Fortress Tour

Glass-Blowing Workshop

Catamaran Island Tour

Truffle Hunting Experience

Gallery Museum Visit

about this tour

about this tour

This nineteen day journey invites travelers to experience the Adriatic through its food traditions. It sets an unhurried pace across changing landscapes. Beginning in the mountainous landscapes of Slovenia, the route winds through countryside, lakeside towns, and farming communities before leading to the coastal beauty of Croatia. Guests enjoy flavors from comforting alpine dishes with local ingredients to freshly caught seafood served in seaside settings. The journey highlights the food and the people and places that shape it. Each stop offers opportunities to learn about regional customs, whether through market visits, informal cooking demonstrations, or meals shared with local hosts. Travelers gain insight into how geography, climate, and history have influenced the approach to food. Beyond the dining table, the itinerary includes moments to experience the culture and natural beauty of the Adriatic. Days might include strolling through historic city centers, visiting centuries-old churches, or enjoying a quiet bay. This journey is intended for those who want to connect with the region. It blends eating well with opportunities to understand communities that have preserved these traditions. Each meal tells a story, whether of generations tending olive groves or fishermen heading out at dawn. By the end of the trip, guests will have not only tasted the Adriatic but also gained a deeper appreciation for the landscapes, people, and everyday life that makes its food distinctive.

fw_rjyhulpg0mrz.jpg

GLASS-BLOWING ACTIVITY At the Museum of Ancient Glass, you can take part in a workshop where the traditional art of glassblowing comes alive. Guided by skilled artisans, you can try shaping replicas of ancient glass items and follow techniques passed down through generations. This hands-on experience lets you explore the full process, practice the craft yourself, and gain a closer understanding of the patience, skill, and attention to detail required to create these delicate and intricate glass pieces.

  • 1

    Arrival Day

    Your journey begins in Slovenia as you arrive at Ljubljana Airport. A private transfer will take you to your accommodation where you can settle in and relax after your travels. The rest of the day is yours to get a first feel for the city. Take a leisurely walk through Ljubljana’s old town and along the river, where cafés and small shops line the streets. Admire the mix of Baroque and modern architecture that gives the city its easy charm, and perhaps stop for a coffee or local dish in one of the squares. Whether you choose to unwind or explore, this first day sets a gentle pace for the days ahead.

    Your journey begins in Slovenia as you arrive at Ljubljana Airport. A private transfer will take you to your accommodation where you can settle in and relax after your travels.…
  • 2

    Ljubljana Old Town Walking Tour

    After breakfast, meet your local guide for a relaxed tour of Ljubljana. Begin in Preseren Square, the heart of the city, before crossing the Dragon Bridge, a well-known symbol of local folklore. Stroll through the old town as your guide shares stories about its past and the people who shaped it. Next, take the funicular up to Ljubljana Castle, where you can enjoy wide views of the city and surrounding hills. Afterward, sit down for lunch at a nearby restaurant to try some traditional Slovenian dishes. The afternoon is yours to spend as you wish. You might return to a favourite spot from the tour, walk along the river, or relax at one of the cafés that line the streets. As evening approaches, you could sample the city’s dining scene or simply enjoy a quiet night at your hotel.

    After breakfast, meet your local guide for a relaxed tour of Ljubljana. Begin in Preseren Square, the heart of the city, before crossing the Dragon Bridge, a well-known symbol of…
  • 3

    Transfer to Lake Bled

    After breakfast, take a scenic drive to Lake Bled, known for its calm waters and picturesque setting. Once you arrive and check in to your hotel, meet your local guide for a traditional pletna boat ride to the lake’s small island. Visit the Church of the Assumption and, if you wish, ring the bell said to bring good luck. Continue to Bled Castle, where you will enjoy lunch overlooking the lake and surrounding mountains. The afternoon and evening are free for you to enjoy at your own pace. You might take a walk around the lakeshore, stop for a slice of the famous Bled cream cake, or simply sit and take in the peaceful surroundings as the light changes over the water.

    After breakfast, take a scenic drive to Lake Bled, known for its calm waters and picturesque setting. Once you arrive and check in to your hotel, meet your local guide…
  • 4

    Vintgar Gorge Visit

    In the morning, take a short trip to Vintgar Gorge, located just a few minutes from Lake Bled. Walk along the 1.6-kilometre wooden boardwalk that follows the Radovna River through steep cliffs between the Hom and Boršt hills. As you move along the trail, you will see clear pools, small waterfalls, and gentle rapids that create a peaceful rhythm throughout the gorge. Wooden bridges cross the river at several points, offering different views of the water and surrounding forest. The walk ends at the Šum Waterfall, which drops 13 metres into a calm pool below. Vintgar Gorge is one of Slovenia’s best-known natural sites, admired for its clean air, bright water, and easy accessibility. The experience provides a quiet contrast to the nearby town, giving you time to appreciate the natural scenery at your own pace.

    In the morning, take a short trip to Vintgar Gorge, located just a few minutes from Lake Bled. Walk along the 1.6-kilometre wooden boardwalk that follows the Radovna River through…
  • 5

    Transfer to Rovinj

    After breakfast, set out for Rovinj, a coastal town in Istria known for its charm and cultural heritage. Once you arrive and check in, take some time to relax before meeting your local guide for a private walking tour of the old town. Wander through narrow stone streets lined with small shops and art studios, and learn about the mix of influences that have shaped the town over the centuries. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy as you wish. You might sit by the harbour with a coffee, stroll along the waterfront, or simply take in the sea views from one of the quiet squares. As evening approaches, enjoy dinner at one of Rovinj’s many excellent restaurants, where you can sample local seafood and regional dishes while watching the sunset over the Adriatic.

    After breakfast, set out for Rovinj, a coastal town in Istria known for its charm and cultural heritage. Once you arrive and check in, take some time to relax before…
  • 6

    Truffle Hunt & Winery Visit in Istria

    Travel to the hilltop town of Motovun, a well-known symbol of Istria’s medieval charm, set above the green valley of the Mirna River. Begin your day with a truffle-hunting experience, guided by local experts and their trained dogs. Afterward, enjoy a meal featuring freshly prepared truffle dishes that highlight the region’s strong culinary traditions. In the afternoon, visit one of Istria’s noted wineries for a private tasting of local wines such as Malvasia and Teran. Learn about the winemaking process and the landscape that gives these wines their distinct character. As the day comes to an end, return to your accommodation and take time to relax. The experience offers a calm and rewarding look at the food, wine, and traditions that define this part of Croatia.

    Travel to the hilltop town of Motovun, a well-known symbol of Istria’s medieval charm, set above the green valley of the Mirna River. Begin your day with a truffle-hunting experience,…
  • 7

    The Plitvice Lakes & Zadar Tour

    After breakfast, travel to Plitvice Lakes National Park, located in the Lika region and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is made up of 16 connected lakes linked by waterfalls and surrounded by forest. Walk along the paths and wooden boardwalks to see the lakes, streams, and falls from different viewpoints, enjoying the calm atmosphere of the area. After a lunch break, continue your journey to Zadar on the Adriatic coast. Once you arrive, check into your accommodation and take time to relax or take a short walk along the waterfront. The evening can be spent enjoying the sea views, wandering through the old town, or stopping at a café to watch the sunset. Zadar offers a balance of natural scenery and quiet streets to explore at your own pace, making it a pleasant stop after a day in the park.

    After breakfast, travel to Plitvice Lakes National Park, located in the Lika region and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is made up of 16 connected lakes…
  • 8

    Zadar: History and Coastal Views

    After breakfast, meet your local guide for a walking tour of Zadar’s historic streets. The city’s architecture reflects centuries of change, from Roman ruins to Venetian buildings along the Adriatic coast. Stroll through the old town and take in details of the stonework and streetscapes that tell the story of Zadar’s past. Visit the Museum of Ancient Glass, where skilled artisans demonstrate traditional glassblowing techniques and create replicas of historical pieces. The workshop offers an up-close view of a craft that has been practiced in the region for generations. After the museum, enjoy some free time along the waterfront. You can hear the Sea Organ, an instrument played by the movement of the waves, and see the "Greetings to the Sun" installation, a circle of glass panels that captures sunlight and produces patterns in the evening. As the sun sets over the Adriatic, take a moment to enjoy the changing colors across the water. The combination of history, local craft, and coastal views makes for a calm and memorable day in Zadar, with opportunities to relax at your own pace along the city’s shores.

    After breakfast, meet your local guide for a walking tour of Zadar’s historic streets. The city’s architecture reflects centuries of change, from Roman ruins to Venetian buildings along the Adriatic…
  • 9

    Šibenik and Trogir Day Trip

    After breakfast, check out of your hotel and travel south along the coast to Šibenik, a historic town with a well-preserved old centre. Stroll through the cobbled streets of the Old Town and see the mix of Renaissance buildings and medieval fortresses that mark the town’s past. Visit the Cathedral of St. James, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and take time to appreciate its stonework and architectural details. After your guided tour, enjoy a visit to a nearby winery. Sample local wines and enjoy a traditional lunch, taking in the calm surroundings and learning about the region’s viticulture. In the afternoon, continue to Trogir, a town founded in ancient times and known for its compact, historic centre. Walk through narrow streets lined with Romanesque and Gothic buildings and stop to take in the small squares and churches that define the town. The day offers a balance of history, architecture, and local food and drink, with time to explore at your own pace before settling into your accommodation for the evening.

    After breakfast, check out of your hotel and travel south along the coast to Šibenik, a historic town with a well-preserved old centre. Stroll through the cobbled streets of the…
  • 10

    Split: Palace Tour and Cooking Class

    After breakfast, begin your day in Split with a walking tour of Diocletian Palace, a 1,700-year-old Roman residence at the heart of the city. Stroll through the palace’s streets and courtyards, taking in the blend of ancient architecture and modern life. Learn about the history of the palace and how it has shaped the city over the centuries. After the tour, visit the local green market to see the fresh produce and other ingredients that are central to the region’s food traditions. Later, take part in a private cooking class with a local chef. Learn how to prepare traditional Mediterranean dishes using the fresh ingredients from the market. The class provides an opportunity to understand local recipes and techniques, and to enjoy the meal you have prepared. The combination of history, local culture, and hands-on cooking offers a relaxed and engaging way to spend the day in Split, allowing you to experience both the city’s past and its present through its food and streets.

    After breakfast, begin your day in Split with a walking tour of Diocletian Palace, a 1,700-year-old Roman residence at the heart of the city. Stroll through the palace’s streets and…
  • 11

    Gallery Museum & A Trip to Klis

    Start your day in Split with a visit to the Meštrović Gallery, located in the former home of Croatia’s renowned sculptor Ivan Meštrović. The gallery displays a wide range of his work, including sculptures, drawings, and sketches from across his career. Walking through the rooms, you can see how his style developed over time and learn about the influences behind his pieces. In the afternoon, travel a short distance to Klis Fortress, a medieval stronghold situated on a hill above Split. Walk along the fortress walls and take in the views of the city, the surrounding countryside, and the Adriatic Sea. The site offers a clear sense of its strategic importance over the centuries, as well as the effort involved in its construction and maintenance. After exploring the fortress, return to Split for some free time to enjoy the city at your own pace. You might stroll along the waterfront, visit a café, or return to the old town to see parts of the city you haven’t yet explored. The day combines art, history, and scenic views, providing a well-rounded experience of the Split area.

    Start your day in Split with a visit to the Meštrović Gallery, located in the former home of Croatia’s renowned sculptor Ivan Meštrović. The gallery displays a wide range of…
  • 12

    Transfer to Hvar

    After breakfast in Split, take a short catamaran ride to Hvar town, where you will stay for the next three days. The island is known for its vineyards, including the Plavac Mali grape, which is related to Zinfandel and grown locally. Once in Hvar town, stroll through its cobblestone streets and see a mix of Roman, medieval, and Venetian architecture that reflects the island’s long history. Join a private guided tour to learn more about Hvar’s key sites, including old fortresses and local vineyards. The tour ends at Hvar Fortress, where you can enjoy clear views of the town, the surrounding islands, and the Adriatic Sea. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the town at your own pace, whether that means walking along the waterfront, visiting shops and cafés, or simply relaxing and taking in the scenery. Over the next few days, there will be opportunities to visit more of the island, enjoy local food and wine, and experience the pace of life on Hvar. The combination of history, scenery, and local culture provides a calm and engaging introduction to the island.

    After breakfast in Split, take a short catamaran ride to Hvar town, where you will stay for the next three days. The island is known for its vineyards, including the…
  • 13

    Stari Grad and Island Wine Experience

    Spend the day on Hvar Island exploring its history and scenery. Start in the town of Stari Grad, one of the oldest settlements in Europe, with more than 2,400 years of history. Walk through its streets and squares, seeing the well-preserved architecture and the layout that has shaped the town over centuries. After a private guided tour, continue to an old, abandoned village nearby. The village retains its traditional stone buildings and quiet atmosphere, offering a glimpse into life on the island in the past. Here, enjoy a wine tasting and a local lunch, sampling wines made from grapes grown on the island and dishes prepared using local ingredients. The combination of the surroundings, food, and drink provides a relaxed and authentic experience. Afterward, return to your accommodation in Hvar town. The evening is free to spend as you wish, whether taking a walk along the waterfront, visiting a café, or simply enjoying the view from your room. The day offers a mix of history, culture, and local flavors, giving you an understanding of the island and time to enjoy it at your own pace.

    Spend the day on Hvar Island exploring its history and scenery. Start in the town of Stari Grad, one of the oldest settlements in Europe, with more than 2,400 years…
  • 14

    Boat Trip to Vis and the Blue Cave

    After breakfast, take a private boat trip from Hvar to the island of Vis. The island is known for its quiet atmosphere and well-preserved natural landscapes, offering a calm retreat from more visited areas. Explore the coastline and enjoy the clear waters of the Adriatic as you travel toward Biševo, a small island nearby. Visit the Blue Cave, a sea cave known for the way sunlight reflects through the water, creating a bright blue glow inside the chamber. Spend some time observing the changing colors of the water and the patterns of light on the cave walls. After leaving the cave, continue to enjoy the Adriatic waters as you return toward Hvar, taking in the views of the surrounding islands. The day offers a combination of scenic travel, time on the water, and opportunities to see one of Croatia’s well-known natural sites. There is also free time to relax on the boat or along the coast, allowing you to appreciate the calm atmosphere and clear waters at your own pace before returning to your accommodation in Hvar for the evening.

    After breakfast, take a private boat trip from Hvar to the island of Vis. The island is known for its quiet atmosphere and well-preserved natural landscapes, offering a calm retreat…
  • 15

    Catamaran Ride to Dubrovnik

    After breakfast, check out of your accommodation and take a catamaran ride to Dubrovnik. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and settle in before heading out to explore the city. Walk through the streets of the old town, where the stone walls and narrow alleys reflect centuries of history. Take in landmarks, squares, and local architecture at your own pace, enjoying the mix of old and new that gives the city its character. Later, take the funicular to the top of Srđ hill. From this viewpoint, enjoy views of Dubrovnik’s red-tiled roofs, the Adriatic Sea, and the nearby Elafiti Islands. Finish the day with dinner at a restaurant on the hill, where you can relax and take in the surroundings as the sun sets. Afterward, return to your hotel for the night. The day combines travel, sightseeing, and scenic views, giving you a first look at Dubrovnik and its coastline while leaving time to enjoy the city at a comfortable pace.

    After breakfast, check out of your accommodation and take a catamaran ride to Dubrovnik. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and settle in before heading out to explore the city.…
  • 16

    Dubrovnik Walking Tour

    Spend the morning walking through the streets of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, a city enclosed by historic walls and fortresses that have stood for centuries. Follow narrow alleys and open squares, observing the architecture and details that reflect its long history. Take time to explore key landmarks and enjoy the atmosphere of the city at a comfortable pace. Later, walk along the city walls or other viewpoints for views of the Adriatic Sea and the nearby Elafiti Islands. The combination of the stone streets, sea views, and surrounding islands provides a clear sense of why the city is often admired. In the evening, enjoy free time to explore Dubrovnik further. You might stop at a café, take a stroll along the waterfront, or simply relax and enjoy the changing light over the city. The day offers a mix of sightseeing, history, and scenic views, giving you the chance to appreciate Dubrovnik both from the streets and from higher viewpoints. It is a relaxed way to see the city while leaving room to enjoy it at your own pace before ending the day.

    Spend the morning walking through the streets of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, a city enclosed by historic walls and fortresses that have stood for centuries. Follow narrow alleys and open squares,…
  • 17

    Trip to Kotor

    After breakfast, set out with your driver for a scenic journey to Montenegro. Your first stop is the UNESCO-listed town of Kotor, known for its well-preserved medieval walls that surround the old town. With a local guide, walk through its narrow streets and learn about the town’s history as you visit landmarks such as old churches, cathedrals, and palaces that reflect centuries of cultural influence. Take time to enjoy the atmosphere and views of the bay before continuing your journey. Next, travel to Budva, one of Montenegro’s oldest settlements and a favourite along the Adriatic coast. Here, your guide will introduce you to the town’s 2,500-year-old past, explaining how it has evolved from an ancient settlement into a lively coastal destination. Stroll through the old town, where stone buildings, small squares, and sea views combine to create a relaxed and characterful setting. This day offers a balance of cultural discovery and scenic beauty, connecting two of Montenegro’s most historic coastal towns in one route.

    After breakfast, set out with your driver for a scenic journey to Montenegro. Your first stop is the UNESCO-listed town of Kotor, known for its well-preserved medieval walls that surround…
  • 18

    Cetinje, Skadar Lake and Winery Visit

    Travel with your driver to Cetinje, Montenegro’s historical capital often called the “city museum” for its cultural and political significance. With a local guide, visit the National Museum to learn about Montenegro’s past and its role in shaping the nation’s identity. Continue to Skadar Lake, one of Europe’s largest and most scenic lakes, where mountain views and calm waters create a peaceful setting. A private boat ride offers a closer look at the lake’s landscapes and local wildlife, with insights from your guide along the way. Afterward, enjoy a relaxed wine tasting and lunch at one of the area’s family-run wineries, where local traditions and regional flavours come together. As the day ends, return to Dubrovnik with a deeper understanding of Montenegro’s heritage and natural charm, reflecting on a journey filled with culture, scenery, and good food.

    Travel with your driver to Cetinje, Montenegro’s historical capital often called the “city museum” for its cultural and political significance. With a local guide, visit the National Museum to learn…
  • 19

    Departure Day

    Your driver will be ready at your hotel to take you to the airport via private transfer for your final international flight home. Safe travels!

    Your driver will be ready at your hotel to take you to the airport via private transfer for your final international flight home. Safe travels!

Why Book With Us?

Selected luxury hotels that deliver exceptional service in authentic local style.

Finest Hotels

Our in-country experts have in-depth knowledge of their city and culture for an exceptional travel experience.​

Boots on the Ground​

Our experienced travel consultants are there to support you throughout your journey.​

Customer Support​

We favor local partners who share our focus on quality customer service while providing value to the local communities.​

Responsible Tourism​

FAQs

test question 1

test Answer 1

test question 2

test Answer 2

Our in-country expert

Gillian is a cornerstone of our Central European expertise. She possesses an unparalleled understanding of the region, cultivated through a distinguished career in the travel industry. Following her formative experience as a holiday representative in Greece, Gillian transitioned to a successful travel agent role in Croatia. Here, she honed her skills by meticulously crafting itineraries...
Gillian
Gillian

How We Work

EXPLORE THIS JOURNEY

Book this trip with your choice of hotels and the option to add extra nights at the start or end of your trip.

icon-svg

CUSTOMIZE THIS JOURNEY

Create your dream trip with the assistance of Finest Journeys expert travel consultants.

CRAFT MY OWN JOURNEY

Build your own dream trip with our easy to use trip planning tools

The choice is yours and the Finest Journeys team are always here to help and our concierges and in-country teams will look after you throughout your journey from booking until return.

How We Work

1-Enquire

Fill out our form or give us a call on 1-800-227-1393 to tell us more about your trip.

2-Talk With Us

An expert will get in touch the following day to help you curate your bespoke tour itinerary.

3-Trip Creation

We'll take care of every detail to bring your dream trip to life.

4-Confirmation

You will receive an email from our team confirming all of the important details about your trip.

5-Travel With Ease

Our concierges and in-country teams will look after you throughout your journey from booking until return.

Words From our Travelers

Finest Journeys service is outstanding. In addition, Marilia is one of the best agent I have ever worked with.

Jackie

Codetic

Cynthia and Hugh had a FANTASTIC time and raved about the trip! Everything worked out well and went smoothly! They loved the hotel and Cynthia said that Finest Journeys were awesome!

Jackson

Stacey

My clients were thrilled with the itinerary and had a flawless trip. Thank you, Jean and Finest Journeys!

D. Evans

Chicago

The Wilson’s loved their trip. Your service is invaluable.

Jane

Minneapolis

Cheri and I would like to thank you again for providing an outstanding honeymoon for Kaleb and Alexandra. The kids had a wonderful time and will have stories to tell for a lifetime.

Kip

Fort Wayne

So stress free. You made it so easy for us and I loved the follow up checking in during the trip. I will be using your services again and recommending it to others.

Jonathan

Newport

    Share with us any special requests, wish-list experiences or changes we should include in your customized trip. Our expert travel consultants will then adapt this tour to your specific requirements and then send your customized itinerary for your review and approval or for further modification. At any stage in building your customized tour, you can contact your dedicated Finest Journeys travel consultant by telephone, email or online chat to discuss options or for answers to any queries.

    Flexible

    Number of Adults

    Number of Children U12

    Number of Infants U2

    Budget for my party

    ×