Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Departure Day

Your European adventure begins! Board your overnight flight, excited to explore the canals of Venice, the charm of Slovenia, and the iconic Adriatic coastline of Croatia.

Day 2: Arrival in Venice

Arrive in Venice, where your Travel Director will greet you at the airport. Transfer to your centrally located hotel and settle in. Later, enjoy an orientation walk through Venice’s winding streets and across its picturesque bridges. Learn how this remarkable city was built on wooden pilings driven into a lagoon and how it became one of the most powerful maritime republics in history. In the evening, glide through Venice’s canals on a traditional gondola ride, taking in the city from the water as the sun begins to set. End the day with a welcome dinner to kick off your journey together.

Day 3: Marco Polo’s Venice
Begin the day with a guided walking tour of St. Mark’s Square, including views of St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. Cross the iconic Rialto Bridge and explore the bustling market area that was once the center of Venice’s trade empire. In the afternoon, enjoy some time to explore local shops, cafés, and gelaterias.

Day 4: Venice to Ljubljana

Travel east into Slovenia, stopping at Postojna Cave, one of Europe’s most impressive cave systems. Ride a small train deep into the cave and walk through enormous limestone chambers filled with dramatic rock formations. Continue to Ljubljana, Slovenia’s charming capital. After checking in, enjoy a guided evening walk along the riverfront Old Town, crossing the famous Triple Bridge and Dragon Bridge while learning about the city’s history and legends.

Day 5: Ljubljana

Start the day with a guided city tour, learning about Slovenia’s independence and its unique position at the crossroads of Central Europe and the Balkans. Ride the funicular up to Ljubljana Castle for panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the open-air market, browse artisan shops, or walk along the Ljubljanica River.

Day 6: Ljubljana to Plitvice Lakes

Travel south into Croatia and arrive at Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its cascading waterfalls and brilliant turquoise lakes. Spend the afternoon walking along wooden boardwalks and scenic trails that wind through this breathtaking natural landscape. Capture photos of waterfalls and crystal-clear pools before heading to your nearby accommodations for the evening.

Day 7: Zadar and Split

After breakfast, travel toward the Dalmatian Coast, stopping in Zadar. Explore the Old Town’s Roman ruins and medieval churches before experiencing the famous Sea Organ, where ocean waves create natural music through hidden pipes beneath the promenade. Continue south to Split and settle into your hotel. Spend the evening strolling along the waterfront promenade lined with palm trees and cafés.

Day 8: Split and the Adriatic

Explore Split’s Old Town with a guided visit to Diocletian’s Palace, a massive Roman palace that now forms the heart of the city. Wander through ancient stone corridors that have transformed into modern shops and restaurants. In the afternoon, head to the Adriatic Sea for beach time. Swim in the clear blue water, relax along the shore, and enjoy time with your group by the coast.

Day 9: Split to Dubrovnik

Travel along the scenic Adriatic coastline to Dubrovnik, often called the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” Upon arrival, enjoy a guided walking tour through Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Walk along the marble streets, visit historic squares, and learn about the Republic of Ragusa and its powerful maritime history.

Day 10: Dubrovnik

Today offers a full day to experience Dubrovnik. Walk the famous city walls for incredible views of terracotta rooftops and the Adriatic Sea. Take a cable car ride up Mount Srđ for panoramic views of the coastline. Later, enjoy some time to shop, explore, or relax in the Old Town.

Day 11: Lokrum Island and Farewell Dinner

Take a short ferry ride to Lokrum, a protected island nature reserve just off the coast. Explore the ruins of a Benedictine monastery, walk through botanical gardens, and swim in secluded rocky coves with crystal-clear water. This evening, gather for a farewell dinner overlooking the Adriatic Sea, celebrating your journey through Italy, Slovenia, and Croatia.

Day 12: Departure Day

Say goodbye to Croatia and the unforgettable memories of your European adventure. Transfer to the airport for your return flight home.