Imagine a two-week itinerary that takes you on a tour of Croatia and Slovenia from Dubrovnik to Venice. Through some of the most beautiful places in Europe, exploring Croatia’s Adriatic Coast and Dalmatian Islands.
Now, imagine this as an all-inclusive Croatia itinerary with all travel and tours arranged by a dedicated tour manager. The finest hotels, restaurants, and experiences in each region. Top of the range transport throughout the tour and a full porter service means you never have to move your bags – Luxury.
Discovery Tours by Gate 1 Travel offer a 14 Day Dalmatian Isles, Croatia & Slovenia small group tour that captures the very best of these regions and offers an experience you will never forget. And if three countries in two weeks are not enough, an optional tour to gorgeous neighbouring Montenegro will complete your Adriatic experience.
Related: Plan your trip around the best time to visit Europe with tips on what to do in Europe for each season.
Discover why Croatia is one of the best countries in Europe to visit in October
Before You Go – Suggested Travel Essentials
Small Group Tours Croatia
Exclusive itineraries and access, the best accommodations and authentic dining experiences. Convenience, comfort and value for money. This Croatia and Slovenia tour far exceeded our expectations, especially regarding the quality of hotels and guided tours.
While we found the tour arrangements surpassed our expectations, the itinerary ultimately left the greatest impression. An itinerary carefully crafted to ensure the best of each region is experienced without any of the hustle endured in large tour groups.
The flexibility of the itinerary also allowed ample time to explore on our own, an aspect we loved and one you don’t often find even in small group tours. Each destination reached in comfort and explored to its fullest without any rush. Private tours run by local guides at each destination offered a great start to our own explorations.
The Best of Croatia, The Dalmatian Islands, and Slovenia.
Croatia
The Croatian coast is the perfect Mediterranean package. Ancient walled towns rise from the sea while an unending number of islands dot the crystal clear Adriatic.
Croatia delivers more than just a beautiful summertime destination. It is incredible history and architecture. Delicious local cuisine and world-class wines. Croatia is a country of breathtaking natural beauty.
Explore Dubrovnik
Beginning in Dubrovnik is the perfect start to the tour. With three nights in one of the most beautiful hotels in Dubrovnik on the beach, there is ample time to relax and unwind after your journey to Croatia and still plenty of time to explore the best of Dubrovnik.
Start with a Walking Tour of Dubrovnik
The magnificently intact walled city on the coast in the south of Croatia is one of the Mediterranean’s best-known tourist destinations. Set against the magnificent blue of the Adriatic, even for second-time visitors, the old city of Dubrovnik never fails to impress.
Our introduction to this magnificent city was a private Dubrovnik walking tour. A few hours spent with an authority on the city was not only an excellent insight into the history but a wonderful way to get our bearings in the walled labyrinth. A walking tour is also time well spent if you only have one day in Dubrovnik.
Included in our walking tour was the entry to walk the walls, one of the most popular things to do in Dubrovnik. While some of the stair climbs may have left us a little short of breath, the views from the top took our breath away.
Having three nights in Dubrovnik also allowed us plenty of time to explore on our own. We had the luxury of choosing the best time to visit Dubrovnik’s old town, perfect for avoiding the crowds. After the walking tour, we retreated to the hotel to relax by the pool and wait for the crowds of the day to disappear.
You can find more recommendations of where to stay in Dubrovnik here.
Enjoy Dubrovnik at Night
Dubrovnik by night is not only fantastic due to lack of crowds, but the ancient city of limestone also lights up in more ways than one. Streets polished through thousands of years of foot traffic literally, shines under the lights, creating a beautiful setting to indulge in some Croatian cuisine at any number of restaurants within the walls.
Dubrovnik Travel Tips
- If you allow yourself enough time in Dubrovnik, it is possible to do an easy day trip from Dubrovnik to Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina. In peak season, allow extra time for border crossings as it is a popular day trip in both directions.
- Allow enough time to enjoy some of Dubrovnik’s best beaches. The weather is still favourable for the beach well into the shoulder seasons.
- These handy travel photography tips will help you get the best photos of Dubrovnik.
- Start planning your trip with this Four Day Dubrovnik Guide
- Travelling to Dubrovnik from Split? Find the best ways to travel from Split to Dubrovnik
Dalmatian Islands Croatia
Korcula Island Dalmatian Coast
Beautiful Korcula Island, the sixth-largest on Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast is known for its dense forests, pretty Mediterranean olive groves, outstanding wines, and delicious regional cuisine which makes it one of the best Croatian islands for food lovers. It is also reputed to be the birthplace of Marco Polo.
Korcula is not as popular as the northern islands of Brac and Hvar, which we believe makes it one of the best Croatian Islands to visit. While it may not be on top of the tourist radar, just yet, it is still one of Croatia’s most treasured holiday islands and quickly becoming a Croatia tour itinerary staple. The proximity of Korcula to Dubrovnik makes it a perfect stopover on your way north.
Explore Korcula Old Town
After a private tour of the Korcula old town often referred to as “Little Dubrovnik”, we enjoyed a sunny afternoon exploring the islands namesake town.
Beautiful medieval streets spill from central squares down to the waterfront promenades. Korcula’s restaurants and stylish cafes, with stunning Adriatic views, offer a modern take on Dalmatian cuisine. Wine lists boasting exceptional local wines.
A lovely night in a small boutique hotel in Korcula’s other main resort town of Vela Luka confirmed why this island is so popular with summer vacationers. The boutique, cosmopolitan vibe, along with Korcula’s beaches and quiet coves make this one of the prettiest islands we have ever visited.
Hvar Island Dalmatian Coast
Further north on the beautiful Adriatic coast sits one of the most popular Dalmatian Islands – Hvar. Rated as one of the world’s top 10 islands by Conde Nast Traveler magazine, Hvar has a well-earned reputation for a luxurious island lifestyle and as Croatia’s premier party island.
It is not surprising during the peak summer months, as many as 20,000 people travel from Split to Hvar each day. Hvar is, without doubt, one of the best islands in Croatia and a perfect inclusion on any Croatia itinerary.
Famed for its inland lavender fields, pristine beaches and the marble traffic-free streets of Stari Grad, the islands 13th-century old town- Hvar offers the perfect Mediterranean island experience.
We had two glorious nights to enjoy Hvar. Being there in October seemed to be the perfect mix of mild weather and a notable lack of crowds. We were able to soak up Hvar’s charming boutique atmosphere at our leisure.
Beautiful Hvar Old Town
Whether exploring the back streets of the medieval village or sipping coffee on the main square with Hvar’s notably well-heeled locals, this Dalmatian island exudes a delightful ambience that makes you want to stay a little while longer.
Had we slipped into the lovely Croatian lifestyle already or do the Dalmatian Islands leave this impression on everyone who visits. The feeling of wanting to linger a little longer?
Mainland Craotia
Split
A leisurely morning ferry from Hvar to Split afforded us one last glimpse of the beautiful Dalmatian Islands from the sea and a fantastic view of Split as we sailed into Croatia’s second largest city.
A vibrant waterfront promenade set against a 1700-year-old UNESCO site and lived-in atmosphere seems to set this city apart from Dubrovnik. The city of Split has the right balance of new and old, tourist and local. We just loved this city.
Take a Walking Tour of Split and Diocletian’s Palace
After a nice alfresco lunch, we enjoyed a private tour of the Diocletian’s Palace, the 3rd-century retirement home of the Roman Emperor. Step inside the atmospheric palace walls, or “Old Town” as it is mostly referred to, and you will find a thriving world or restaurants, bars, and shops. Life ticks along here as it has for thousands of years.
Our local guide took us for a tour underneath the palace; here we got a real understanding of the grandeur of the Emperor’s vision when he ordered this city to be built.
The few Game of Thrones fans amongst us were also rewarded with a glimpse of where Khaleesi kept her dragons in the TV series.
After an afternoon of exploring the Split old town on our own, we found, much like Dubrovnik, there is no shortage of beautiful hotels in Split and no shortage of fantastic dining options serving up traditional Croatian food. We were treated to not just a hotel of the finest standard, but exceptional fine dining.
Plitvice Lakes
A short detour inland, not far from the Bosnian border is one of Europe’s most stunning national parks, Plitvice Lakes National Park. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the park boasts 16 terraced crystalline lakes, laced together by a series of waterfalls within a densely forested park. The area also has some of the best hiking in Croatia.
The mineral-rich waters deposit tufa on their journey down the rock canyon creating continually changing formations. A phenomenon known as petrified or tufa waterfalls.
Tour Plitvice Lakes
18 km of wooden pathways snake their way around the edges of the lakes and across the many falls. This makes a hike through the park very accessible to most fitness levels.
We spent a few hours strolling the park, working our way up the terrace of lakes with a local guide in tow. It was a highlight to see this magnificent natural wonder in the full colour of Autumn.
While it would typically take around six hours to explore all the lakes, we took advantage of the park boat services to cross the larger lakes and shaved a few hours off our hike. A boat ride across the lake was a welcome viewpoint to take in the brilliant display of colour. If you are looking for one of the best places to visit in Croatia, Plitvice Lakes National Park should be on your list.
Opatija
A full day to explore the beautiful seaside resort town of Opatija. Even on a very rainy day, Opatija oozed the same kind of chic charm that appealed Austro-Hungarian nobility.
Stunning belle-époque villas still dominate the town’s landscape, spruced up since the fall of Yugoslavia to bring back some of the grandeur of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
Opatija has always had a reputation as a genteel place to escape as reminisced by our lovely guide Maja. She remembered fondly coming to the seaside resort as a child to enjoy the beaches and grand hotels.
Relaxation and rejuvenation seem to be de rigueur again as a mild climate and grand spa hotels attract a mainly mature clientele.
Discover More of Croatia – A Day in Trogir
Slovenia
Ljubljana
Leaving Croatia, we crossed the border into Slovenia to the capital, Ljubljana. Ljubljana is one of those cities that endears itself to you the minute you arrive. This beautiful little city boasts a young university population, large green spaces and some of the most elegant architecture we has seen since Riga, Latvia.
Traffic restrictions mean all the areas surrounding the banks of the Ljubljana River, which divides the city’s old town from the commercial centre, are free to be enjoyed by pedestrians and cyclists. Perhaps this is why Ljubljana has been voted one of Europe’s greenest and most livable cities.
Take a Ljubljana Walking Tour
After a private tour of Old Town, we were free to enjoy this delightful town on our own. For a small city, Ljubljana certainly packs a punch. No end of exceptional quality restaurants and cafes line the river and narrow streets of old town.
Take the funicular up to the 15th century Ljubljana Castle, which is visible from all over the city.
Walk the riverfront and find the famous Dragon Bridge, not just a nod to the city’s coat of arms but also a protected technical monument. Soak up the atmosphere at the central outdoor markets or visit any number of the city’s galleries and museums.
Our suggestion – just go for a stroll. Day or night, Ljubljana has a wonderful atmosphere to be enjoyed and so much to see around the city streets. This city left an immense impression on us.
Discover More of Slovenia
Lake Bled
You know when you see a photo and instantly want to know where in the world this beautiful place could be? Lake Bled has this effect on so many.
Lake Bled, one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia, is only a short drive from Ljubljana which makes a perfect day trip from the capital.
One of the most beautiful churches on an islet sits centerpiece on a perfectly mirrored lake. A medieval castle clings impossibly to a rocky cliff face and boatmen, the legacy of generations row gently from church to shore.
While a day trip is possible, it is not surprising many choose to spend a few days enjoying the beauty of Lake Bled.
Take a Pletna Boat to Bled Island
A spectacular view from Bled Castle above was only overshadowed by the serene boat ride to the church on Bled Island. Handcrafted pletna boats, a tradition passed down from generation to generation of local men row between the church and shore. Each son must learn how to build and to row the boats to keep the traditional alive.
While we imagine the peak summer months must be busy in such a beautiful place, there was a peaceful calm while we were there. We could have believed nothing on Lake Bled happens above a whisper.
Lake Bohinj Slovenia
To get a full impression of the magnificent Julian Alps, we took a drive to Bohinj, an alpine resort town and one of Slovenia’s premier ski destinations. Passing through stunning landscapes, we stopped to sample various fresh locally produced cheeses and for lunch in a local village restaurant. A day in the Slovenian countryside is like the pages of a fairytale. It is almost too picture-perfect.
Venice
What better place to finish two fabulous weeks working our way up the Adriatic Coast than in Venice, Italy’s most romantic city. We arrived in Venice via private water taxi, an indulgence in itself.
Visit Murano Island
First stop Murano Island, famed for its high quality glass production. For centuries, Murano’s glassmakers have handed down their craft, earning a reputation as the highest quality glass on the market. A demonstration of the technique confirmed why this is such highly prized glass.
Cruise the Grand Canal and Venice Walking Tour
take a cruise down the famous Grand Canal, arriving in time to enjoy lunch at your leisure. A lovely introduction to Venice. Then, an afternoon spent with a local guide on a tour of Piazza San Marco and the Basilica. After, our guide took us on a lovely stroll around Venice to capture the heart of this unique city.
While we would love to say this helped us gain our bearings in the city, we don’t believe you could ever get your bearings in Venice. Where would be the fun in that?
One final dinner to farewell our group and to enjoy our last evening in Venice.
Got More Time to Spend in Venice? Here is the Perfect Five Day Venice Itinerary
Four countries in two weeks on one of the best quality tours we have taken. Highlights were the high quality of arrangements and quality of experience in the itinerary. For us, this equates to a value for money, quality experience.
Croatia and Slovenia Tour Facts
Discovery Tours by Gate 1 Travel 14 Day Dalmatian Islands, Croatia & Slovenia tours run between 01 April and end October. Peak season in these regions is between June and September.
Small group tour of maximum 22 travellers guaranteed.
Early Bird prices start at $2749 for land only packages and $3839 for land and air if travelling to Croatia from the US.
The tour includes –
- Accommodation – Hotel porterage – Some meals
- All transfers using high quality vehicles.
- Comprehensive guided sightseeing and entrance fees – bottled water during excursions.
- A local, English-speaking tour manager throughout.
- Additional or Optional Tours can be purchased. Optional Tours start at $63
Check the Discovery Tours by Gate 1 Travel 14 Day Dalmatian Islands, Croatia & Slovenia for a more comprehensive list of pricing and inclusions.
We would like to thank Discovery Tours by Gate 1 Travel for hosting us on the 14 Day Dalmatian Islands, Croatia & Slovenia tour. As always, all opinions expressed are our own and have not been influenced in any way.