24/7 support
No card fees

Excellent

Ljubljana to Dubrovnik

New Tour

11 days

Take in the highlights of Slovenia and Croatia on this 11-day tour, travelling from Ljubljana to Dubrovnik. Explore the Slovenian capital and visit breathtaking Lake Bled. Discover Croatia's Istrian Peninsula with wine tasting, truffle hunting and sightseeing in Rovinj, Porec and Pula. Tour the spectacular Plitvice Lakes, take a day trip to Hvar, see Diocletian's Palace in Split and end your trip with a guided tour of the walled city of Dubrovnik.

For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes

Accommodation Standard

4 Star

Tour Overview

Duration

11 days

Starts

Ljubljana

Ends

Dubrovnik

Range

Handpicked

Tour Guide

Escorted by a tour leader

Group Size

Min 1 / Max 16

Minimum age

No minimum age

Departs

March to October

Hotel Rating

4 star hotels (upgrade available)

Countries

Croatia, Slovenia

Arrival Transfer

Yes

Departure Transfer

No

Meals included

Breakfast: 10, Dinner: 1
Per Person From
AUD$7,405.00
Deposit From
Final payment
AUD$1,000.00
$13,810.00

Accommodation Standard

4 Star

Tour Highlights

Ljubljana - Join a morning tour of the riverside Slovenian capital, including the famous Triple Bridge
Lake Bled - Cruise the clear waters of this alpine lake to the sacred island to visit the Church of Saint Mary
Goriska Hills - Enjoy an included wine tasting in the medieval village of Smartno, near the border with Italy
Istria - Hunt for truffles, visit the ancient towns of Groznjan and Motovun, and enjoy oyster tasting at Lim Bay
Plitvice Lakes - Join a 3-hour guided tour of this picturesque region, home to 16 inter-connected lakes
Split - See mighty Diocletian's Palace and other highlights of this Croatian gem on a city tour
Hvar - Discover this laid-back, sun-kissed island on a day trip from Split, with a walking tour and free time to explore
Dubrovnik - Uncover the historic City Walls, Stradun main street and other highlights of this iconic Croatian city

Included

10 breakfasts & 1 dinner
10 days 4-star hotels (upgrade available)
Escorted by a local tour leader with local guides for some sightseeing
Airport arrival transfer on day 1
Transportation in a mini-bus with air-conditioning & Wi-Fi
1 bottle of water (0.5l) daily for each passenger, accommodation taxes and city taxes
Guided sightseeing in Ljubljana, Lake Bled, Istria, Plitvice Lakes, Split, Hvar & Dubrovnik
Entrance to Postojna Caves, Pula Arena & Plitvice Lakes
Wine tasting in a local winery in Western Slovenia's Goriska Hills
Truffle tasting in Croatian Istria
Oyster & Seashell Tasting in Croatian Istria
Wine tasting in a local winery in Croatian Istria
Wine tasting in a local winery in Dalmatia
Hvar return catamaran trip
Note: This tour is operated in conjunction with our trusted partner and you will join travellers from different operators, not solely On The Go

Not Included

International flights & visas
Departure transfer
Meals not specified in itinerary
Tipping - an entirely personal gesture!
Entry fees unless specified & optional activities

Accommodation Standard

4 Star

Itinerary

Day 1 - Welcome to Slovenia!

Welcome to Ljubljana, something of a hidden gem in Europe and a wonderful city of historic architecture and fantastic character. You will be collected at the airport and transferred to our hotel for check in. The rest of your first day is at leisure.

Overnight: Ljubljana

Day 2 - Ljubljana Sightseeing & Lake Bled

Ljubljana - Bled - Ljubljana. Our guided tour of Ljubljana begins with a walk through this charming, green city, nestled between the Julian Alps and the Adriatic. Known for its stunning architecture, relaxed atmosphere, and vibrant dining scene, Ljubljana is home to landmarks such as the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas, the baroque Town Hall, Mestni Trg (Town Square), Robba’s Fountain, the lively open-air market, and the iconic Triple Bridge.

No visit to Slovenia is complete without a stop at Lake Bled, famous for its scenic island and alpine beauty. We’ll take a traditional pletna boat to the Church of Saint Mary on the island, with time to explore the historic church. During your free time, visit Bled Castle, perched on a cliff with sweeping views, and try Bled’s famous “krempita” cream cake. We return to Ljubljana for the night.

Overnight: Ljubljana
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 - Exploring Slovenia

Ljubljana - Postojna Cave - Goriska Hill - Portoroz. Say goodbye to the capital of Slovenia after hotel check-out. Just an hour from Ljubljana, Slovenia offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit the spectacular limestone Postojna Cave. Board an electric train to explore this unique underground landscape, where we 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 our journey through Slovenia.

For a full immersion into Slovenian charms, we will head towards the Goriska Hills, a region shared between Slovenia and Italy, seamlessly blending 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 of Smartno, dating back to the 14th century, where we can travel back to captivating and picturesque stories of the past and uncover the essence of Brda's warmth and hospitality. Here, amidst rolling vineyards and charming views, we will visit an authentic winery to sample some of the region's finest wines.

Finally, we will arrive in Portoroz, an attractive Istrian town in Slovenia and one of the largest tourist centres in the Slovenian coastal region, where we will check in to our hotel.

Overnight: Portoroz
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 - Exploring Istria

Portoroz - Porec (Croatia). Today, we cross the border into Croatia, heading to Groznjan, a charming hilltop village known for its vibrant arts scene and medieval architecture. We will explore the town's galleries and workshops, enjoying a drink and soaking in the local atmosphere before moving on to our next destination.

Next, we can participate in a truffle-hunting demonstration in a nearby forest famous for its white and black truffles. Guided by an expert and his trained dog, we will learn how to find these culinary treasures and enjoy a tasting of local truffle-infused cheese and sausages with a glass of Istrian wine.

Later, we visit Motovun, an ancient town perched on a hill with stunning views of the Motovun Forest and Istrian countryside. As we walk through its narrow streets, we will admire the medieval architecture, including the town walls and the Church of St. Stephen. Finally, we check into our hotel in Porec.

Overnight: Porec
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 - Istria in Depth

Porec - Rovinj - Pula - Porec. Today, we explore the historic town of Rovinj, known as the gem of Istria. We will wander through the picturesque old town, where 18th-century Venetian architecture and cobblestone streets create a captivating blend of history and romance. As we stroll through the winding alleys and vibrant squares, we will experience the charm of Grisia Street, famous for its local art and shops, along with stunning views of the Mediterranean.

We indulge in an oyster and seashell tasting at a seaside restaurant near Lim Bay, an 11-km-long estuary teeming with marine life. Here, we will sample fresh oysters, mussels, clams, and scallops, followed by a wine tasting at a family-owned winery that embodies Istrian winemaking.

Our journey continues to Pula, home to remarkable historical sites, including the well-preserved Roman amphitheatre, the sixth-largest Roman coliseum in the world. We will also visit the Temple of Augustus, the Triumphal Arch of Sergius, and the Twin Gates, immersing ourselves in the town's rich history. As evening approaches, we return to Porec.

Overnight: Porec
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6 - Opatija & Plitvice Lakes

Porec - Opatija - Plitvice Lakes. Bid farewell to the beautiful Istrian peninsula and, after check-out, head to Opatija, an elegant town known for its rich history, architecture, and vibrant atmosphere. We can enjoy a leisurely coffee break while strolling along the famous Lungomare promenade, which offers stunning panoramic sea views. As we continue our journey, picturesque countryside unfolds before us, showcasing charming villages and rolling hills, with glimpses of the sparkling Adriatic Sea.

Next, we explore Plitvice Lakes National Park, home to 16 interconnected cascading lakes. Once known as "Devil's Garden," it was the first site in the Balkans to receive UNESCO World Heritage status. Our 3-hour guided tour will cover both the upper and lower lakes. While swimming is not permitted, there will be time to relax at one of the nearby restaurants amidst this lush paradise. Afterward, we check into our hotel, allowing time to rest and unwind.

Overnight: Plitvice Lakes
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7 - Trogir & Split

Plitvice Lakes - Trogir - Split. As we leave Plitvice Lakes and check out, our tour continues to the coastal region of Croatia, starting with the charming town of Trogir. Located on a small island, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features stunning architecture, beautiful sea views, and palm-lined promenades. As we stroll through its medieval streets, we'll immerse ourselves in a blend of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. Key sights include 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, Dalmatia's largest city, steeped in 1,700 years of history. We enter through the Golden Gate and wander the narrow cobblestone streets, discovering bustling markets, charming cafés, and hidden courtyards within Diocletian's Palace. We'll visit the former Temple of Jupiter and the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, the oldest Catholic cathedral in its original structure. As we stroll along the lively Riva promenade, we can soak up the Mediterranean sun and vibrant atmosphere.

Overnight: Split
Meals: Breakfast

Day 8 - Hvar Day Trip

Split - Hvar - Split. To start our day, we will take a short drive to the ferry port and board a high-speed catamaran that brings us to the queen of the Croatian islands - Hvar, so much more than just the glitz and glamour of its main town. We'll take in the azure blue seascape as we journey through the Splitska Vrata to Hvar Island.

A town built in wonderful Venetian architectural style, the island-city of Hvar is famous for its traffic-free cobbled streets, filled with nice restaurants and bars. During our walking tour, we'll see the harbour, Renaissance Cathedral, Benedictine Convent, Franciscan monastery, and Church of Our Lady of Mercy.

We have set aside plenty of free time for you to fully enjoy all that the island has to offer. Based on your interests, we recommend embarking on a boat excursion to discover the enchanting Pakleni Islands, relaxing on the sun-kissed beaches, exploring the picturesque trails to Milna Bay for a memorable adventure, or enjoying a delightful Mediterranean lunch at a local restaurant.

In the late afternoon, we'll head back to Split. Please note that the departure timing may vary depending on the season.

Overnight: Split
Meals: Breakfast

Day 9 - Peljesac Peninsula & Dubrovnik

Split - Peljesac Peninsula - Dubrovnik. After check-out, we drive along the picturesque Dalmatian coast, taking in stunning views of Croatian islands, lush vineyards, olive groves, and charming stone villages. We arrive at the Peljesac Peninsula via the impressive Peljesac Bridge.

At a local winery, we’ll taste the robust Plavac Mali, the region's signature red wine. We’ll relish its rich, complex flavours and learn about the centuries-old winemaking traditions, with hand-tended vines growing in rocky terrain. Local vintners will share the secrets behind their craft, transporting us to the heart of Dalmatia with notes of sun-ripened berries.

Next, we stop briefly in the city of Ston to savour its famous oysters and admire the iconic Ston Walls. We then arrive in Dubrovnik, check into our hotel, and enjoy the evening at leisure. You can explore the city on your own or indulge in a Mediterranean dinner at a local restaurant.

Overnight: Dubrovnik
Meals: Breakfast

Day 10 - Exploring Dubrovnik

Experience the essence of Dubrovnik, known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," as we visit its iconic sights, including Stradun, the main street, Placa Square, Pile Gate, and the Rector's Palace. We’ll explore the City Walls and the picturesque city port, uncovering hidden gems along the way. Immerse yourself in the magic of Dubrovnik, where stunning locations from "Game of Thrones" come to life, revealing the city’s rich history.

After our city tour, make the most of your free time by enjoying lunch at a restaurant atop the city walls, where breathtaking views await. Alternatively, consider taking a cable car to Srd Hill for stunning panoramas of the Old Town and the Adriatic coast, or walk along the 2 km stretch of City Walls for a unique perspective of Dubrovnik from above. In the evening, you could opt to set sail on an optional sunset cruise aboard the Karaka, a replica of a traditional 16th-century wooden galleon, and admire breathtaking views of the Old Town and its centuries-old impregnable walls from the sea.

Overnight: Dubrovnik
Meals: Breakfast

Day 11 - Dubrovnik

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the hotel in Dubrovnik before check out, and our touring arrangements come to an end.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation Standard

4 Star

Hotels

The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.

Click here to see more information about the ships used on this and similar tours.

Best Western Premier Hotel Slon
Ljubljana

Located in a restricted traffic zone, this upscale hotel is a 3-minute walk from Congress Square and a 17-minute walk from Ljubljana Castle. The relaxed rooms feature complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and tea and coffee-making facilities. Amenities include an elegant restaurant, a bar, a fitness centre, saunas, and a spa offering Thai massages

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Hotel Exe Lev
Ljubljana

Hotel Lev is centrally located in Ljubljana, the 13 floor high glass exterior offers marvelous views of Slovenia's capital city. Guest rooms are decorated modernly featuring private ensuite bathrooms and air-conditioning. Additional features of the hotel include complimentary Wi-Fi, a 24-hour fitness centre and bicycles to rent for those wanting to explore the area.

Our Rating
Local Rating
Hotel Neptun - LifeClass Hotels & Spa
Portoroz

This relaxed hotel in a resort area is a 3-minute walk from Meduza Beach, 4 km from the bars and restaurants of Tartini Square, and 7 km from Portorož Airport. The unassuming rooms provide free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and minifridges, with some featuring balconies. Amenities include indoor and outdoor pools, a gym, and a private beach area. Guests also enjoy access to various dining options and spa/wellness centres at nearby partner hotels.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Wellness Hotel Apollo - LifeClass Hotels & Spa
Portoroz

Situated across the street from the beach, this upmarket hotel in a vibrant building is a 2-minute walk from the nearest bus stop and 3 km from Tartini Square. The modern rooms feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and minibars. Amenities include an elegant restaurant, a health-focused eatery, and a stylish café, along with a fitness centre and a children’s club. There’s also an indoor pool, a saltwater outdoor pool, and two whirlpool baths, as well as a wellness centre with saunas, Thai massages, and Ayurvedic treatments.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Valamar Diamant Hotel & Residence
Porec

A 10-minute walk from a peaceful beach on the Adriatic Sea, this unassuming resort is 2 km from the Aquacolors water park and 3 km from the 6th-century Euphrasian Basilica. The casual, colourful 1- and 2-bedroom apartments offer satellite TV, kitchens, and living and dining areas, with each featuring a balcony or terrace. Amenities include a buffet restaurant, a bar, a spa, a sauna, and a fitness centre, as well as indoor and outdoor pools.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Valamar Riviera Hotel & Residence
Porec

Located across the road from a ferry terminal, this casual seasonal hotel near the Old Town is a 6-minute walk from the Byzantine-style Euphrasian Basilica and 11 km from Baredine Cave. Offering views of the Old Town, the airy, unpretentious rooms are equipped with flat-screen TVs and tea and coffee-making facilities. The hotel features two restaurants, including a bright buffet eatery, along with a lobby bar that provides music and a waterfront terrace. There is also an on-site gym.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Plitvice Inn
Plitvice Lakes

Offering mountain views, Plitvice Inn in Čujića Krčevina provides accommodation alongside a garden. The lodgings feature a seating area with a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom equipped with complimentary toiletries and either a bath or shower. Guests can also enjoy a terrace at Plitvice Inn. Plitvička Jezera is 4.3 miles away, while the nearest airport is Zadar Airport, located 52 miles from the property.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Hotel Art
Split

Enjoying an enviable location close to the historic centre of Split, this modern hotel offers an ideal combination of comfort and convenience. The spacious guest rooms benefit from air-conditioning, free WiFi, a mini-bar and plasma TV. The in-house restaurant serves a buffet breakfast and a selection of dishes from an a la carte menu for lunch or dinner, all prepared with fresh ingredients sourced daily, while the Coffee Bar is a great place to indulge in a cocktail or hot drink on the open-air terrace. Just a short stroll away from the hotel guests will find shops, restaurants and cafes, and the UNESCO-listed Diocletian Palace is just a 10-minute walk away. Guests can also make sure of the hotel’s gym and spa facilities after a long day of sightseeing in Split.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Hotel Globo
Split

The gleaming Hotel Globo is a beacon of modern hospitality, located in the heart of Split. The delightfully air conditioned rooms are spacious, elegantly decorated and equipped with plush furnishings and a selection of modern amenities. While there is no restaurant at the hotel, reception staff are always happy to make reservations for you at any of the gourmet restaurants in the vicinity. Surrounded by numerous beaches, including the beautiful Bacvice Beach, the Globo is the an excellent base for exploring the best of what Split has to offer.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Hotel Lapad
Dubrovnik

Hotel Lapad offers a serene retreat with stunning views of Gruz Harbour, housed in a historic building surrounded by palm trees and a large outdoor pool. The modern rooms strike a perfect balance between clear lines and luxurious fabrics, all equipped with air conditioning, flat-screen satellite TVs, minibars, and tea/coffee making facilities. Indulge in a delightful lunch menu at the à-la-carte grill restaurant with a garden terrace, and revel in live music and pool parties five days a week from June to September. This privately owned hotel boasts over a century-long tradition in hospitality, creating an exceptional journey that respects tradition, history, and the essence of Dubrovnik.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Hotel Lero
Dubrovnik

The elegant Hotel Lero is a spacious accommodation that offers free WiFi to all of its guests and has an onsite salon as well as a massage parlour. The air-conditioned rooms are comfortable and stylish, ensuring that guests have a wonderful night's sleep. The hotel's bar is the perfect location for a leisurely drink before dinner, which can be taken in either of the two restaurants and consists of local and international dishes. A buffet breakfast is served each morning. The hotel is situated just minutes from the beach and 20 minutes on foot from the Old Town.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel

Accommodation Standard

4 Star

Prices & Dates

Departure dates are guaranteed with 1 traveller. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. Room sharing is not available on this tour.

2025
Twin/Double
Single
22 Apr - 2 May
$7,405
$9,595
13 May - 23 May
$7,405
$9,595
27 May - 6 Jun
$7,405
$9,595
10 Jun - 20 Jun
$8,065
$10,745
24 Jun - 4 Jul
$8,065
$10,745
8 Jul - 18 Jul
$8,065
$10,745
22 Jul - 1 Aug
$8,065
$10,745
19 Aug - 29 Aug
$8,065
$10,745

Similar Tours

Explore more exciting tours in Croatia to discover even more unforgettable adventures!

4.4 out of 5 based on 275 reviews