17 Day Italy by Train, Croatia & Premium 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 1 out of 5
Explore at your own pace: Discover your destination at your own pace with our self-guided itinerary. Options include driving, rail, or cruising (excluding expeditions). Enjoy included guided day trips for sightseeing as outlined in your itinerary.
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.
Hurtigruten's Norwegian Coastal Cruise along the scenic coast and fjords of Norway has often been praised as being one of the most beautiful voyages in the world. Each day of your voyage will yield unforgettable memories of natural beauty as you discover a coastline with an ever changing personality with a new revelation around every headland.
✓ Independent exploration of Italy by train (Days 1-7), pre-cruise land tour (Days 7-10) and a Croatian small-ship coastal cruise with Katarina Line (Days 10-17)
✓ Second Class high speed rail tickets as per the itinerary (upgrade to First Class available)
✓ 6 nights in 3 star accommodation in Italy (upgrade to 4 star accommodation available)
✓ 3 nights in 4 star accommodation in Croatia
✓ 7-night small ship cruise along Croatia's stunning Dalmatian Coast
✓ Breakfast daily, 7 lunches & 1 dinner
✓ Airport transfers included on the first day
✓ Dedicated transportation from Venice to Split
✓ 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 Rome! Your private transfer is ready to take you to your hotel.
Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Whether you’re booked on the 3 star or 4 star package, you will enjoy hotels located in the heart of the city with close proximity to the train station and all the sights that Rome has to offer.
Please note - the rest of the itinerary is unescorted, with local guides joining you for day tours along the way. You will make your way between destinations.
Arrival airport transfers are included as part of your package. You will be met upon arrival at the airport and transferred to your hotel.
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.
Please note - 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.
Guests booked on the 4* upgraded package will be accommodated at Hotel Gambrinus or similar
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before joining a guided tour of the Roman Forum and the Colosseum. You will discover the history of ancient Rome and the gladiators' fights that took place there. To get an in-depth view, add an optional tour.
Guests booked on the 4* upgraded package will be accommodated at Hotel Gambrinus or similar
Discover imperial and early Christian Rome and millennia of history as you descend into the Eternal city's underground burial chambers, its long winding catacombs and its crypts. This is the one and only tour that takes you to crypts and catacombs from different historical eras, in various locations and with varying styles. Much of what Rome has to offer is buried underground-and through this tour, our guests can discover the underside of Rome through three select sites--The Cappuccini Crypt (chapel decorated entirely by human bones), Domitilla Catacombs (or San Callisto or San Sebastiano) and the Basilica of San Nicola in Carcere.
(Operates daily)
You'll be guided by our seasoned professional pizzaiolo chef who will lead you through the intricate art of crafting the perfect dough, selecting the freshest toppings, mastering the assembly and baking techniques that characterise the beloved Roman-style pizza. While your meticulously prepared dough rests, you'll discover the delightful world of gelato. Learn the intricate mixture of ingredients that come together to achieve the velvety texture and exquisite taste that define this iconic Italian delicacy. Our talented chef will captivate your senses as they present a live demonstration of the art of gelato-making. Upon the conclusion of your culinary escapade, you'll depart armed with more than just memories. A curated booklet of recipes will accompany you, granting you to recreate the magic of Italy's most cherished culinary treasures within the comfort of your home kitchen. Armed with the knowledge you've acquired and the recipes you've mastered, you'll confidently set forth to share the flavours of Italy with friends and family, creating lasting memories of your own.
(Operates daily)
After breakfast at the hotel, you will head to Rome Termini station to board the high-speed train to Florence; the journey takes about 1.5 hours. You are free to explore the city and its numerous impressive museums.
If exploring Florence has worked up an appetite, consider indulging in a long dinner at a local restaurant.
Guests booked on the 4* upgraded package will be accommodated at Hotel Executive or similar
Today you will discover two thousand years of history of the cradle of the Renaissance through the eyes of an expert local guide, who will take you in an unforgettable journey to discover the most beautiful squares and monuments of Florence. With this half day tour, you will admire with your own eyes the sites and monuments that have made Florence one of the most visited destinations in the world.
On this small group excursion you will meet one of our famous and charismatic chefs and learn how to cook a nice Tuscan meal in the heart of Florence! First, you will go shopping with the chefs at the central market, picking up the ingredients for your lunch. You will meet the butchers, the bakers, and the farmers selling vegetables from their gardens. You will learn how to distinguish the highest quality ingredients. Next, enjoy a delicious tasting of typical products and you will start putting your hands on the ingredients to create your own meal, driven by the expert guidance of our Chefs. Your menu may slightly vary depending on the season and the fresh ingredients available, but will usually be made of bruschetta, different kinds of fresh home-made pasta from scratch (i.e. tagliatelle and ravioli), sauces for the pasta, and a dessert - accompanied by two glasses of a selection of Chianti wine. A booklet with recipes will let you cook for your friends once you get back home.
Duration: approx. 5 hours.
Start time: 9am.
Maximum group size: 20.
Meeting point:Via Panicale, 43/r, 50123 Firenze, close to Florence Central Market, 15 minutes prior to departure
Please note that when the Central Market is closed (on Sundays and bank holidays) a special introduction and extra tastings at the cooking class location will substitute instead.
Explore the oldest art gallery in the world! This is a unique experience for those of you who want to immerse yourself in Florence’s artistic background and history. You will be guided through the huge rooms and bright hallways to stop in front of and admire such classics as Botticelli’s Birth of Venus, Leonardo’s The Annunciation and Michelangelo’s Tondo Doni… to name but a few. At the end of the guided tour you can remain in the Uffizi Gallery until closing time.
Duration: approx. 2 hours.
Start time: 8:30am.
Maximum group size: 10.
Meeting point: Ciao Florence office - via Cavour 18,15 minutes prior to the start of the tour.
Do not operate on Mondays.
After breakfast at the hotel, board the high-speed train to Venice S. Lucia station. The journey takes just over 2 hours. After arriving, check in to your hotel. In the afternoon, you’ll explore Venice by water in a quintessential experience, with a 30 minute shared gondola ride. Commentary is available via an app on your mobile phone, to add to the experience.
Before dinner in Venice, it is traditional to have an aperitif based on “cichéti” (small snacks) in one of the many “bacari” (taverns) scattered along the “calli” (that is what the Venetian streets are called): a must experience to try!
Guests booked on the 4* upgraded package will be accommodated at the Carlton Grand Canal or similar
Today you are free to explore the canals or surrounding islands of Venice on your own. Get lost wandering the winding canals, shop at the many boutiques or enjoy a gelato in one of the many piazza’s.
Alternatively, you may wish to join an optional group tour below.
This is a walk to admire the most characteristic and important places for the history of Venice from the exterior - an essential tour for the understanding of Venice. A qualified and experienced guide will take you to the main sites which includes Piazza San Marco, Basilica San Marco, Palazzo Ducale (Doge's Palace), Bell Tower, Clock Tower and Procuratie. Continue to Santa Maria Formosa - history and anecdotes related to this wonderful and characteristic square. Campo San Giovanni e Paolo - the "Pantheon" of Venice, the Great School of Charity, the Captains of fortune. Marco Polo’s House and Malibran Theater - anecdotes and distant and recent history intersect in this beautiful corner of Venice. Return to San Marco through the Mercerie, a vital connection between Rialto and San Marco, and the main shopping street.
(Operates daily)
This panoramic city tour will lead you to the discovery of the Venetian Lagoon and of its origins through a boat excursion that will stop in the three most important islands of the city: Murano, Burano and Torcello. On board, an expert hostess will tell you the story of each island, revealing their peculiarities and traditions. In Murano, you will visit an historical glassblowing factory, where you will be shown how they still work the typical glass that made Venice famous all over the world. In Burano, the island known for its colorful houses, you will admire the famous hand-made laces. Last stop is Torcello, where you will witness the vestiges of the first settlements of the inhabitants of Venice.
(Operates daily)
As your Italy tour concludes, you're ready for your next adventure! Make your way to the coach terminal to continue your journey to Croatia. From there, you'll be transferred to Opatija, a delightful resort town on the northern coast of the Adriatic.
Join your guided tour of Opatija, a coastal town nestled on the scenic Kvarner Bay and a birthplace of Croatian tourism. Once a favoured spa retreat for the Habsburgs, European aristocracy, and 19th-century elites like Gustav Mahler and Isadora Duncan, Opatija still exudes its historic charm. Stroll through the vibrant Angiolina Park and along the Lungomare sea promenade, flanked by enchanting Austro-Hungarian villas and residences, and experience the unique glamour of this distinguished destination.
After breakfast, depart for the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes National Park. As Croatia’s oldest national park, it features 16 lakes linked by cascading waterfalls. Enjoy a 3 to 4-hour walking tour along wooden paths and nature trails, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning turquoise waters.
Embark on a guided tour of Split, the largest city in Dalmatia, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance dating back to Roman times. At the heart of this expansive city is the palace constructed by Emperor Diocletian for his retirement at the end of the 4th century. The Palace stands today as one of the best-preserved examples of Roman architecture worldwide. Following your walking tour, make your way to board your Katarina Line cruise.
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.
✓ Independent exploration of Italy by train (Days 1-7), pre-cruise land tour (Days 7-10) and a Croatian small-ship coastal cruise with Katarina Line (Days 10-17)
✓ Second Class high speed rail tickets as per the itinerary (upgrade to First Class available)
✓ 6 nights in 3 star accommodation in Italy (upgrade to 4 star accommodation available)
✓ 3 nights in 4 star accommodation in Croatia
✓ 7-night small ship cruise along Croatia's stunning Dalmatian Coast
✓ Breakfast daily, 7 lunches & 1 dinner
✓ Airport transfers included on the first day
✓ Dedicated transportation from Venice to Split
✓ Sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary
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 $266 per person, twin share (single from $400)
Upper/Main Deck Cabins (June - September Departures) - FROM $444 per person, twin share (single from $666)
Cabin Upgrades and prices are subject to availability upon booking. Please select this option upon booking to indicate your upgrade preference. Once your upgrade has been confirmed, the additional amount will be added to your invoice and payable with your final payment.
First Class Rail Upgrade ($84 per person)
Select this supplement if you would like to upgrade your itinerary to 1st class rail on all sectors.
With rows of 3 seats instead of 4, extra space for your legs, a wider seat and backrest, First Class has been designed for your comfort and serenity.
4-Star Hotel upgrade ($269 per person, twin share. Single price on application.)
Select this supplement if you would like to upgrade your hotel to 4 star in Italy.
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.
It is the traveler'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.
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.
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 categorised as a ”1”
Explore at your own pace: Discover your destination at your own pace with our self-guided itinerary. The itinerary may include driving, rail, or cruising (excluding expeditions). Enjoy included guided day trips for sightseeing as outlined in your itinerary.
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 $2,845.00 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.
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.
To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of the following optional activities (prices are per person):
Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online.
Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 70 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.
Click HERE for more information on weather in Italy.
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...
28 Nov 2023
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...
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...
