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Venice to Dalmatia

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13 days

Embark on a 13-day tour of Italy, Slovenia, and Croatia. Starting in Venice, take in sights like St. Mark's Basilica and the Rialto Bridge, then explore the islands of Murano and Burano. In Slovenia, discover Ljubljana and Lake Bled. Visit Postojna Caves, enjoy wine tasting in the Goriska Hills, and discover Istria’s coastal and hilltop towns, including Porec, Rovinj, and Pula. Tour the Plitvice Lakes, visit Trogir and Split, and take a day trip to Hvar Island. Finish in Dubrovnik, taking in its historic walls, Stradun, and Srd Hill views.

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

Accommodation Standard

4 Star

Tour Overview

Duration

13 days

Starts

Venice

Ends

Dubrovnik

Range

Handpicked

Tour Guide

Escorted by a tour leader

Group Size

Min 1 / Max 16

Minimum age

No minimum age

Departs

March - October

Hotel Rating

4 star hotels (upgrade available)

Countries

Croatia, Italy, Slovenia

Arrival Transfer

Yes

Departure Transfer

No

Meals included

Breakfast: 12, Dinner: 1
Save 20% today
Per Person From
£4,205.00
£3,364.00
Deposit From
Final payment
£600.00
£6,128.00

Accommodation Standard

4 Star

Tour Highlights

Venice - Enjoy a scenic ride along the Grand Canal, visit St. Mark’s Square, St. Mark’s Basilica, and Doge’s Palace, and explore the Rialto Bridge and the narrow streets of the city
Murano - Witness skilled artisans creating stunning glass pieces at a local factory and learn about the centuries-old techniques of Murano glassmaking
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

12 breakfast & 1 dinner
12 nights in 4 star hotels (upgrade available)
Escorted by a local tour leader with local guides for some sightseeing
Transportation in a mini-bus with air-conditioning & Wi-Fi
Airport arrival transfer on day 1
48 hour Venice transportation ticket
1 bottle of water (0.5l) daily for each passenger, accommodation taxes and city taxes
Guided sightseeing in Venice, Ljubljana, Lake Bled, Istria, Plitvice Lakes, Split, Hvar & Dubrovnik
Entrance to Postojna Caves, Pula Arena & Plitvice Lakes NP
Glass Factory experience on Murano Island
Wine tasting in Slovenia's Goriska Hills
Truffle Tasting in 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 transfers
Meals not specified in itinerary
Tipping - an entirely personal gesture!
Entry fees unless specified & optional activities

Accommodation Standard

4 Star

Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrival in Mestre, Venice

Welcome to Mestre, the gateway to Venice’s enduring charm and captivating canals. Upon arriving on the mainland, you’ll check in to your hotel, with time to relax and settle in.

Later in the evening, we’ll gather as a group, where your guide will introduce the itinerary and provide a travel card offering unlimited access to Venice’s land and water transport, giving you the freedom to explore the city at your own pace.

If you wish, the guide will accompany you into Venice to soak up its enchanting evening atmosphere. For dinner, feel free to choose from local restaurants, enjoying this experience at your own leisure.

Overnight: Venice

Day 2 - Venice sightseeing

Today, we embark on an enchanting journey through Venice, starting with a scenic ride along the Grand Canal. We’ll soak up the energy of St. Mark’s Square, the heart of Venice, and admire St. Mark’s Basilica with its stunning mosaics and architecture, a symbol of the city’s medieval grandeur. Nearby, the majestic Doge’s Palace stands as a testament to Venice’s rich history of art, politics, and intrigue.

As we explore the labyrinthine streets, we’ll cross the Rialto Bridge, offering captivating views of the city. Picture the days of Casanova as we wander through narrow alleyways, uncovering hidden courtyards and artistic treasures.

After the tour, if you wish, a gondola ride will make your day even more memorable as you glide through the canals.

Overnight: Venice
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 - Exploring Murano, Burano, and Ljubljana

Venice - Murano - Burano - Ljubljana (Slovenia). After check-out, we continue to the famous islands of the Venetian Lagoon. First, we visit Murano, renowned for its glassmaking. At a local factory, we'll witness skilled artisans creating stunning glass pieces and learn about the centuries-old techniques.

Next, we head to Burano, known for its colourful houses and traditional lace-making. We’ll explore Galuppi Square, wander the streets, and admire the intricate lacework passed down through generations.

Afterwards, we travel to Ljubljana, Slovenia’s charming capital, where we check in to the hotel. Your evening is at leisure.

Overnight: Ljubljana
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 4 - Ljubljana & Lake Bled

Ljubljana - Lake Bled - Ljubljana. Nestled between the Julian Alps and the Adriatic Sea, Ljubljana is one of Europe’s greenest capitals. On our tour, we'll stroll along the riverfront, discovering Ljubljana’s iconic landmarks, including the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas, the baroque Town Hall, medieval Mestni Trg (Town Square), Robba’s Fountain, the bustling central market, and the renowned Triple Bridge.

Later, we head to Lake Bled and its iconic island, the most photographed spot in Slovenia. We’ll take a pletna boat to the island, where you’ll have time to explore the Church of Saint Mary. Use your free time to visit Bled Castle, perched atop a cliff with stunning lake views. Don’t miss the famed Bled krempita, a cream cake best enjoyed against the scenic backdrop. We return to Ljubljana for the night.

Please note: Additional travellers may be joining the tour in Ljubljana - the maximum group size will never be exceeded.

Overnight: Ljubljana
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 - Slovenia exploration

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 6 - Exploring Istria

Portoroz - Porec (Croatia). Today, we head 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 7 - 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 gourmet journey continues as we uncover more of the region's delightful treasures, its exceptional wines. We enjoy a wine tasting at a family-owned winery, where we’ll discover the artistry and passion behind Istrian winemaking. Following a guided tour, we’ll immerse ourselves in the process, surrounded by the scenic beauty of Istria's rolling hills.

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 8 - 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

Day 9 - 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. Split captivates with its unique charm and dynamic energy.

Overnight: Split
Meals: Breakfast

Day 10 - 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 11 - 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, renowned for its breathtaking vineyards and celebrated wines.

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 12 - Dubrovnik sightseeing

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 and fantastical allure. You'll hear intriguing stories about the Republic of Ragusa and the enchantment that makes Dubrovnik one of the world’s most captivating destinations.

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 Srđ 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 choose to set sail on a 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 13 - Depart from Dubrovnik

Our tour ends after breakfast, wishing you a safe onwards journey!

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.

Leonardo Royal Hotel Venice Mestre
Venice

Just a 5-minute walk from Venezia-Mestre train station, this relaxed hotel is 3 km from the shops and restaurants around Piazza Ferretto, with Venice itself located 9 km away. The simply decorated rooms feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, safes, minibars, and tea and coffee-making facilities. Amenities include a restaurant, a bar, and a fitness centre, along with meeting spaces available for guests.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
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 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
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
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 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

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
20 Apr - 2 May
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£4,205£3,364
£5,425£4,340
11 May - 23 May
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£4,205£3,364
£5,425£4,340
25 May - 6 Jun
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£4,205£3,364
£5,425£4,340
8 Jun - 20 Jun
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£4,515£3,612
£5,965£4,772
22 Jun - 4 Jul
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£4,515£3,612
£5,965£4,772
6 Jul - 18 Jul
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£4,515£3,612
£5,965£4,772
20 Jul - 1 Aug
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£4,515£3,612
£5,965£4,772
17 Aug - 29 Aug
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£4,515£3,612
£5,965£4,772

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