Croatia & Slovenia

Intrepid Travel · 8 days
Croatia & Slovenia
Croatia & Slovenia
Croatia & Slovenia
Croatia & Slovenia
Croatia & Slovenia
Croatia & Slovenia
Croatia & Slovenia
Croatia & Slovenia
Croatia & Slovenia
Croatia & Slovenia
Croatia & Slovenia
Croatia & Slovenia
Croatia & Slovenia
Croatia & Slovenia
8 Days
From AUD $3380
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Light

Rating


(19 reviews)

Croatia & Slovenia

Croatia & Slovenia

Intrepid Travel · 8 days
Duration

8 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Embark on an adventure starting in Split, where Gothic monuments set the scene. Journey through the unspoiled beauty of Plitvice Lakes National Park and wander the historic streets of Zadar's Old Town.

Highlights

  • Experience Split's Gothic monuments and the vibrant life within Diocletian's Palace – a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of the city's bustling streets.
  • Visit Zadar to wander its ancient streets and enjoy an exclusive visit to a local Benedictine monastery, where you'll taste award-winning produce and learn about their traditional way of life.
  • Explore Plitvice Lakes National Park, wandering through its network of lakes, waterfalls and forests, followed by a visit to a nearby NGO preserving historical cultural crafts.
  • Immerse yourself in Ljubljana's lively atmosphere, surrounded by green spaces and vibrant cafes, and walk around Bled, a picturesque town nestled on a lake with a fairytale island church.

Trip Details

Duration

8 days

Transportation

Public bus,Private vehicle,Taxi

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Split, Croatia

Finishes

Ljubljana, Croatia

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Split
Dobro dosli! Welcome to Croatia. Your adventure starts in Split with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If Dubrovnik is considered the heart of Dalmatia, Split is certainly the soul. Situated on a small peninsula on the eastern shores of the Adriatic Sea, it's the second- largest city in Croatia. Split grew out from Diocletian's Palace – and while some cultures might have preserved the palace as a museum, Split thrives as a dynamic city where locals live and businesses thrive within its walls. After the meeting, maybe head out for your first taste of Dalmatian cuisine with the group.

Optional Activities:

  • Split - Fish Market - Free
  • Split – Highlights of Split Urban Adventure (64 EUR)
  • Split - Marjan Hill Hike - Free
  • Split - City Museum (4 EUR)
  • Split - Gallery of Fine Arts (5 EUR)
  • Split - Ethnographic Museum (3 EUR)
  • Split - Cellars of the Diocletian's Palace (8 EUR)
  • Split - Ivan Mestrovic Gallery (12 EUR)
  • Split - St Domnius Cathedral and Tower (10 EUR)
  • Split - Archaeological Museum (8 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
2
Day 2: Zadar
This morning, you'll travel by local bus northwest to Zadar. For centuries Zadar was the capital city of Dalmatia, and the city's rich heritage is visible at every step. An important coastal town, the musical steps of the ‘Sea Organ’ on Zadar's waterfront express its important relationship with the sea. Trace marble streets through the Old Town and discover Roman ruins in amongst medieval churches. Enjoy some local food and drinks in a city that’s home to a vibrant café culture. Zadarsko pivo is a light beer with a very pleasant taste, just a little bit bitter, with a rich flavour. After, maybe treat yourself to a gourmet meal at a contemporary Croatian restaurant. Try njoki (lamb in red wine) with Dalmatian ham and rocket salad, or opt for the popular choice of fresh tuna carpaccio or a fillet in scampi sauce. Also try the famous liqueur, Maraskino, made from locally-grown maraschino cherries according to a centuries' old secret recipe. This unique drink was a favourite at European imperial and royal courts and has been produced in Zadar since 1821.

Included Activities:

  • Zadar - Leader-led orientation walk

Optional Activities:

  • Zadar - Museum of ancient glass (6 EUR)
  • Zadar - Gold and Silver of the city of Zadar Museum (6 EUR)
  • Zadar - Archaeological Museum (5 EUR)
  • Zadar - Cathedral Bell Tower (2 EUR)
  • Zadar - Church of Saint Donat (4 EUR)
  • Zadar - St Anastasia's Cathedral - Free
  • Zadar - Roman Forum - Free

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
3
Day 3: Zadar
Head out of the city this morning for a special experience at the farm of the Benedictines of St. Mary. This order leads a secluded life, believing that working on the agricultural land brings them closer to God. During your visit, you'll taste some of the award-winning jams, liqueurs and juices produced in the monastery. Sample high-quality olive oils and wines with cheese and bread, then take a tour of the property. As you walk around the orchards, you'll learn about how the nuns live, the fruits grown on the grounds and how their products are produced. After some time to explore, you'll head back to Zadar in the afternoon, where you'll have free time. Maybe try the famous liqueur, Maraskino, made from the locally grown maraschino cherries. This unique drink was a favourite at European royal courts and has been produced in Zadar since 1821.

Included Activities:

  • Zadar - Nunnery & farm visit

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
4
Day 4: Plitvice Lakes National Park
Travel inland this morning to your next base in Grabovac and visit Plitvice Lakes National Park – an Eden of waterfalls and lakes. Fed by the Bijela and Crna Rivers, the waters tumble from tree-lined ridges through dense forests. Sixteen lakes fed by underground springs are split into the upper and lower lakes. The upper are in the dolomite cliffs, where water weaves in and out of the karst, dropping dramatically down to the lower lakes. This interplay of water, rock and plant life creates a dynamic landscape. Look out for over 120 species of birds, including hawks and owls, and butterflies that transform the park into a riot of colour. After, visit Licko Petrovo Selo – a small village next to the park with a local NGO that focuses on preserving the historical art of woolly men's underwear. Take a short tour of the NGO and hear about how they preserve this important part of their cultural heritage (and maybe even buy a warm souvenir to take home).

Included Activities:

  • Plitvice Lakes - National Park Visit
  • Licko Petrovo Selo NGO visit

Accommodation:

  • Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
5
Day 5: Zagreb
Continue to Croatia’s capital and largest city – Zagreb. Full of parks and squares, Zagreb is a laidback place, proud of its coffee culture and the perfect spot to wander. Follow your leader on an orientation walk when you arrive and then enjoy some free time for the rest of your time here. Maybe join one of the many free walking tours in the city and engage with a local here to learn about their daily life or browse the city’s stunning neo-baroque and gothic architecture. You could check out Tkalciceva Street’s lively social scene or head up Medvednica Mountain, where the views stretch as far as neighboring Slovenia on a clear day. To live like a local, maybe head to Zagreb’s open-air markets where you’ll find all kinds of fresh vegetables, nuts, honey and liqueurs.

Included Activities:

  • Zagreb - Leader-led Orientation Walk

Optional Activities:

  • Zagreb - Museum of Broken Relationships (7 EUR)
  • Zagreb - Mirogoj Cemetery - Free
  • Zagreb - Cathedral - Free
  • Zagreb - The Croatian Museum of Naive Art (5 EUR)
  • Zagreb - City Museum (4 EUR)
  • Zagreb - Lotrščak Tower (3 EUR)
  • Zagreb - Funicular (1 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
6
Day 6: Ljubljana
This morning, take the train and cross the border to Ljubljana. One of the smallest capitals in Europe, Ljubljana makes up for it by also being one of the greenest and most vibrant cities on the continent. Follow your leader on an orientation walk and ride the funicular up to Ljubljana Castle for panoramic views of the city. Dubbed the ‘dragon city’ due its ties to Greek mythology, you’ll likely spot dragon symbols scattered about. Ljubljana, home to 50,000 students, is known for its lively nightlife. Explore Metalkova for an alternative vibe or the Old Town for its historical charm – or ask your leader for their recommendations.

Included Activities:

  • Ljubljana - Castle and Funicular
  • Ljubljana - Leader-led walking tour

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
7
Day 7: Ljubljana / Bled
Embark on a day trip to Lake Bled this morning. Your leader will guide you on a scenic walk that passes some impressive 19th century villas, including the residence of the former Yogoslav president ‘Marshal’ Tito – now known as the hotel Vila Bled. The rest of the day is free for you to explore all that Bled has to offer. If you’re feeling active, consider renting a paddleboard and taking a trip around the picturesque island. Alternatively, you can get on a Plenta boat ride – a wooden, awning-covered boat rowed by a special oarsman – and reach it that way. From there, climb the 99 steps to St Mary’s Church and ring the wishing bell. Be sure to seek out the famous Bled cream cake, which isn’t hard – nearly every cafe and cake shop in town claims theirs is the best. Return to Ljubljana in the evening and perhaps round your group together for a final dinner.

Included Activities:

  • Bled - Walk around Lake Bled
  • Bled - Day Trip

Optional Activities:

  • Bled - Mountain Bike Hire (25 EUR)
  • Bled - Pletna Boat Trip (14 EUR)
  • Bled - Castle (15 EUR)
  • Triglav National Park - Bus and Cable Car Trip to Mt Vogel (32 EUR)
  • Triglav National Park - Emerald River Adventure (full day) (110 EUR)
  • Triglav National Park - Vintgar Gorge (10 EUR)
  • Triglav National Park - River Rafting (45 EUR)
  • Triglav National Park - Canyoning (85 EUR)
  • Triglav National Park - Guided Mountain Bike Tour (4 hours) (95 EUR)
  • Triglav National Park - Kayaking on Sava River (3 hours) (85 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
8
Day 8: Ljubljana
There are no activities planned for the final day and you can depart your accommodation at any time. For those who wish to stay in Ljubljana, reach out to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.
Exclusions
  • Flights to and from origin and destinations
  • Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
  • Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
  • Recommended gratuities/tipping
  • Optional activities/tours
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.
Important Information
Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

  • It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
  • Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
  • Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.
Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.
AUD $3,380
(Tour only)
Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 8 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Embark on an adventure starting in Split, where Gothic monuments set the scene. Journey through the unspoiled beauty of Plitvice Lakes National Park and wander the historic streets of Zadar's Old Town.

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 07 Mar 2026

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
Excellent
4.5
Guide
Excellent
4.5
Itinerary
Excellent
4.5
Accommodations
Excellent
4.5
Transportation
Excellent
4.5
Tour Operator
Excellent
4.5
Food
Excellent
4.5
4.5
Jillian
Traveled, October 2023

11/03/2023

Great trip with beautiful scenery and some outdoor activity. The stop in Ljubljana is too short so consider having one or two days after the tour ends to head back to Ljubljana as it is we worth a longer visit.

5.0
Elizabeth
Traveled, October 2023

10/24/2023

Our first time to Croatia and Slovenia was an eye opener to history and culture of the countries led by an excellent guide. Just be prepared for long hikes.

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989