16 Day Premium Croatia, Slovenia, Venice & Coastal Cruise
A portion of this tour runs as a group tour where you will be escorted by an expert tour leader. Another portion is self-guided, whether conducted by rail, cruise or land, and you will travel between destinations on your own, with free time to explore at your own pace.
This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
Make the most of your cruise and travel independently, with everything organised for you. Your international flights, pre-cruise stay, and cruise are organised so all you have to do is relax and enjoy your time at sea. Of course, there is the option of extending your tour if you don’t want to head straight to the airport upon disembarkation.
✓ Incredible sightseeing including guided tours of Venice, Bled, Klagenfurt, Opatija, UNESCO-listed Plitvice Lakes, Split, and island hopping along the Dalmatian Coast
✓ Indulge in truffle and olive oil tasting experiences
✓ Marvel at Slovenia’s most picturesque glacier lake with a Bled scenic cruise
✓ 8 nights in 4-star accommodation
✓ 7-night small ship cruise along Croatia's stunning Dalmatian Coast
✓ Airport transfer on the first day
✓ Transfer to Split port
✓ Breakfast daily, 9 lunches and 4 dinners
✓ Dedicated tour leader on days 1-8
✓ Dedicated transportation throughout
✓ Sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary
✈ Needing international airfares to accompany your Inspiring Vacation? You will be able to access our flight portal after securing your package to add international airfares to your booking.
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Welcome to Italy!
Arrival airport transfers are included as part of your package. You will be met upon arrival at the airport and transferred to your hotel in Mestre.
If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.
If you are arriving early and have made your own arrangements prior to your tour commencing, airport transfers will not be included. However, if you are purchasing pre-nights accommodation as part of your Inspiring Vacations package, airport transfers will still be provided to the starting hotel.
This morning you’ll meet your tour leader and fellow guests at the hotel reception from 9am, before exploring the unique beauty of Italy’s floating city.
Enjoy a guided walking tour before continuing towards Slovenia where we’ll enjoy dinner and overnight in the picturesque Bled Lake area.
We’ll begin the day with a tour of Lake Bled, a glacial lake at the edge of the Julian Alps and one of the most beloved destinations in Slovenia. After a boat ride, you’ll have time to spend as you wish, before touring 1000-year-old Bled Castle. On a clear day, Slovenia’s highest mountain, Mount Triglav, is visible from here. Lake Bohinj, the country’s largest natural lake, is our final stop today. Dinner will be at your own leisure this evening.
Today we’re off to Austria! Our first stop will be the historic county of Carinthia, known for its impressive peaks, lush valleys and clear bathing lakes. We’ll enjoy a panoramic tour of the 16.5-km long Lake Wörth (Wörthersee). We’ll continue to the charming Klagenfurt, a university town with the beautiful 16th-century Lindworm fountain dominating the city square, the Alt Platz. We’ll return to the Bled Lake area and enjoy lunch in the Klagenfurt area.
After breakfast we’ll continue our journey towards Croatia. Our first stop will be the wondrous, 24 km- long Postojna Caves, one of the largest underground cave systems in Europe and Predjama Castle. Situated on a 123-metre-high cliff near the caves, the castle is more than 800-years-old and holds the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest cave castle. We’ll arrive at the coastal town of Rovinj in the late afternoon where we’ll enjoy dinner after checking in.
Today we’ll travel by bus to the Istrian Coast which offers idyllic views across Croatia and nearby Italy, but with fewer crowds. Starting with a walk through the labyrinth of cobbled streets, the Roman history of this stunning peninsula is revealed, before venturing inland to sample some renowned local products including truffle and extra virgin olive oil. We end the day with a visit to one of the best-preserved amphitheatres in the world, the jewel of Pula, a 3000-year-old city, administrative centre of Istria.
After breakfast and checking out, today’s destination is the Plitvice area. Our first stop is Opatija, a picturesque little town full of magnificent villas and old hotels and at one time, a famous winter resort of the Austrian elite. Spend time here as you wish: take a stroll through Lungomare promenade, tour Villa Angiolina which was built in 1844, as well the Croatian Museum of Tourism. Don’t forget to make time for a coffee break with million-dollar views at Caffé Wagner. After we pass Gorski Kotar, a mountainous region, we’ll arrive at a small village called Fužine where we’ll explore the Vrelo Cave. The cave, estimated to be 3.5-4 million years old, was discovered by chance in the 1950s during the construction of the Bajer Reservoir. Lunch today will be a mix of traditional Croatian menu items plus local specialty dishes and vegetarian options at restaurant Bitoraj. Through the lush green scenery, our trip continues to Plitvice Lakes where we’ll check in for the evening.
After breakfast and check out, we’ll travel by coach to the unforgettable labyrinth of evergreen woods, lakes and stunning waterfalls of UNESCO-protected Plitvice Lakes National Park. Croatia’s oldest national park was founded in 1949 and is situated in the mountainous karst area, bordering Bosnia and Herzegovina. Our journey continues towards Split for a short evening walk through the city’s historical centre which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On our walking tour, we’ll explore 4th-century Diocletian's Palace (also UNESCO-protected) built by the Roman emperor Diocletian, visit the Grgur Ninski Statue, and the Cathedral and Bell Tower of Saint Domnius.
After breakfast, we bid farewell to Spilt and continue our travels by sea on board the Katarina Line.
We will depart Split harbour at 1pm southwards towards Makarska. Lunch will be served while cruising along the Dalmatian Coast. Afternoon activities will include a swim at one of the secluded bays en route to Makarska, or for adrenaline lovers, there’s an optional zipline ride over the Cetina River Canyon. Dinner at your own leisure tonight Makarska, known for its beaches, seafront promenade and nightlife. The main square, Kačić Square, is home to the Church of St. Mark and other monuments including a Baroque mansion, bronze statues and an impressive 18th-century Venetian drinking fountain. Dinner at your own leisure. Overnight in Makarska Port.
An early morning departure today as we head towards Mljet, the eighth largest Island in Croatia, with a swim stop on the Pelješac Peninsula. Visit the island’s national park (entry fee payable locally), and in the afternoon, explore St Mary's Island at Mljet National Park, a pretty islet featuring a picturesque Benedictine monastery, or walk or hire a bike and explore the lakes. Tonight’s dinner at your own leisure and overnight in the port of Polača or Pomena.
After breakfast, we continue our journey towards Dubrovnik, the most well-known town in Croatia. Irish writer George Bernard Shaw called Dubrovnik “heaven on earth,” an apt description by simply taking a look outside. Sit back and take in the incredible views of this magical stretch of the coast. Upon arrival, join a guided city tour, followed by an optional cable car ride up to the Srđ mountain, part of the Dinaric Alps. At 412 metres high, you can expect spectacular views of the old town. Don’t miss Stradun – both a street and a square in the Old Town and walk at least part of the 1.940 metre long city walls which have protected Dubrovnik during earthquakes and attacks. Dinner at your leisure. Overnight in the port.
Late morning departure towards the island of Šipan or the small town of Trstenik on the Pelješac Peninsula. Today there will be gorgeous swimming spots for an afternoon dip and the possibility of visiting a local winery. In the evening enjoy the special Captain’s dinner on board (included on Premium Superior and Premium). Overnight in the port.
After breakfast, depart towards the island of Korčula, one of the famous islands in the Dubrovnik region. It’s best-known as the birthplace of the famous explorer Marco Polo. Lunch on board in a bay near the Korčula town. The encircling town walls and bastions date back to the 13th century and there are some lovely churches and museums. Join the optional sightseeing of the Korčula town (included on Premium Superior), or optional wine and local appetiser tasting at a local winery before dining in one of the numerous seafront restaurants or konobas (family-run restaurant). Overnight in the port of Korčula.
Early departure towards the Paklinski Islands near Hvar (the longest island in the Adriatic) for lunch and a swim stop. In the afternoon, join a sightseeing excursion of Hvar. Look out for The Renaissance cathedral, founded in 1612 with its original tower still intact, and the oldest community theatre in Europe. Hvar is known as a jet-set island, offering entertainment, excellent restaurants, bars and cafés. Don’t forget to buy some lavender from local stalls, an island specialty. Overnight in Hvar.
After breakfast we’re heading to the island of Brač. The most famous beach in Dalmatia is Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn) near Bol, which is famous for its ever-changing shape, a shingle bar that moves with the wind. Bol is a typical fishermen village that has kept its charm, despite becoming a popular spot. After lunch we’ll continue on to Split where you can enjoy an optional river rafting excursion on the Cetina river. The approach to the Split Riviera is breathtaking and offers the best views from onboard. Upon arrival, join the optional guided tour of Split, a monumental city which together with the famous Roman Diocletian’s Palace, is under UNESCO protection. Dinner this evening is at your leisure, Split is full of bistros and restaurants serving local specialities.
Enjoy an early breakfast this morning before disembarking in Split.
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
Katarina Line
Katarina Line itineraries give travellers the chance to explore the stunning natural environment and picturesque, quaint Mediterranean towns while hopping from one island to another. This unique way of travelling and exploring coastal towns is one of the most popular and easiest ways to experience the true Croatia.
Premium Superior Ships
Katarina Line's Premium Superior fleet features a collection of high-end vessels designed for cruising the Adriatic Sea. Each ship accommodates between 32 and 40 passengers, offering a cosy and personal travel experience. Cabins come in various configurations, including double and twin setups, all of which are air-conditioned and equipped with conveniences such as safes and ensuite bathrooms.
Premium Superior fleet ships have large sundecks for sunbathing and enjoying the breathtaking views. Each vessel features a main salon with a dining area, bar and lounge seating.
Cruises on a Premium Superior category ship will be on one of the following boats: Dream, Majestic, Moonlight, Olmissum, Paradis, Seagull, and Spalato.
SERVICES INCLUDED: Buffet breakfasts, three-course lunches, Captain’s dinner, English-speaking tour manager on board, three guided tours of Hvar, Korčula and Dubrovnik, daily cabin service, a mid-week fresh set of towels and bed linen, luggage handling, olive oil and wine tasting on board, complimentary water, free WIFI.
PLEASE NOTE:
VISITOR’S TAX & PORT FEES ARE NOT INCLUDED (to be paid on the spot) €60 per person per week.
ENTRANCE TO THE NATIONAL PARK (to be paid on the spot) €25 per person
Lower Deck Cabins - Included
Upper/Main Deck Cabins (April, May & October Departures) - from $260 per person, twin share (single from $390)
Upper/Main Deck Cabins (June - September Departures) - from $434 per person, twin share (single from $650)
Cabin upgrades and prices are subject to availability upon booking.
Secure your trip with a $99.00 deposit per person.
Once we receive your deposit, we will send you an invoice with your remaining balance and payment options.
Instalment Schedule:
This is a land only package.
This package does not include international airfares. If you would like to add airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub. The flight portal will allow you to search for all available airfares to your destination. The function works like most general flight search engines allowing you to select your preferred airline, book different cabin classes (eg. Business class) and view flight durations and transit times to your destination.
The flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub once the following criteria has been met:
Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.
Some of our packages will include airport transfers in either one or both directions when arriving or departing from your destination. To know if transfers are included please view the ‘inclusions’ section of your selected package. If airport transfers are stated, transfers will be included as advised.
If transfers are not included, we also offer the option to book your airport transfers using our online portal. Access to this portal is available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed. Transfers are readily available and do not need to be booked until your final hotel list has been confirmed. Once you have made a transfer booking, please refer to your confirmation email for all transfer details including a local contact number for the transfer company.
If you book pre and/or post-tour accommodation on your own arrangement, and the tour includes transfers, note that these will be forfeited. The transfers are only provided in line with the tour dates and pre and/or post-tour accommodation purchased through Inspiring Vacations when available.
It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return. Visas may be required for your destination. For further visa information, click here.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorized as a ”3”
3 – Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. Tipping is not compulsory on your trip, but they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. If you feel that your guide and driver have done an impeccable job, you can choose to give a gratuity, but this is entirely your decision.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, but we can’t guarantee your request will be available at all properties.
Single travellers
When booking this tour, solo travellers will be presented with two options:
1 - Single Supplement
By paying an additional $2,495.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your own room throughout the entire trip.
2- Shared Room with a known friend
If travelling together with a friend, you can opt to share your room with him/her and avoid paying a single supplement.
You and your friend can create a unique booking each. Creating a unique booking, gives each of you the flexibility of making different travel arrangements (such adding extra accommodation, flights, etc), make separate payments and have individual access to our Traveller’s Hub
During the purchase path, you will need to provide your friend’s booking ID (if known) or at a minimum, your friend’s full name
Triple Share
Not available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.
We have partnered with nib to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book Comprehensive or Essentials cover for your domestic, international or multi-trip journeys simply by clicking HERE.
Note that Inspiring Vacations cannot provide advice with regards to any insurance product.
Group Size
2-36 Persons
Children
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Tour Style
To meet the needs of various types of travelers, we choose to operate various types of tours, and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels:
All participants must be in good physical condition to fully engage in this journey. For the safety and welfare of yourself and fellow travellers, if you are feeling unwell prior to departure, we advise staying home and contacting us to arrange alternate plans.
Prior to selecting your trip, carefully review the itinerary to assess your ability to comfortably manage our travel style. Please be aware that if, based on evaluation by our leader or local representative, a participant is deemed unable to safely complete the itinerary, we retain the right to exclude them from all or part of the trip without reimbursement.
It is advisable to consult your physician for current medical travel advisories and any required vaccinations before embarking. We recommend carrying a first aid kit and any necessary medications in their original packaging, as they may not be readily available during travel. For those carrying medication, it's essential to check your government's foreign travel guidelines for local restrictions or regulations.
19 Mar 2024
Over the last two thousand years, Italy has taken the best cuisine the world has to offer and made it its own If you could only eat one cuisine for the rest of your life what would it be? Japanese perhaps? Thai maybe? Or is it Italian? Yes, it’s probably Italian. From crusty pizzas and rich pastas, to brightly-coloured...
14 Sep 2020
Wrap your heads around the ruins of Rome and its long and glorious history Visiting Rome can be overwhelming when you consider its historical and cultural importance – after all, it was once called 'the Capital of the World' for a reason. The city is thousands of years old, filled with monuments, wonders, and relics fr...
14 Sep 2020
From decadent tagliateli al ragù to savoury Parmigiano Reggiano right from the source, you’ll discover instantly why Emilia Romagna is considered—by Italians no less—the beating heart of Italian cuisine The competition is fierce, but if Italy has a foodie capital then the title may well belong to Emilia Romagna, home o...
14 Sep 2020
With its iconic landmarks, ancient ruins, famed cuisine and passionate people, Italy is one of the world’s true treasures. But, when is the best time to go? Italy attracts travellers from all over the globe with its incredible food, art, architecture, culture and history. Thanks to the sheer number of attractions, and...
{{details.header}}
New Zealand
United States
Canada
India
