Day 1: Opatija - Tour Begins

Join us and explore Croatia and the countries of the Adriatic. This is a “must see” region filled with ancient cities, medieval architecture, unique cultures, rolling hills and stunning coastal scenery. Your tour begins in the seaside resort of Opatija. This evening, get to know your fellow travellers during a special welcome dinner.

Day 2: Opatija - Istrian Peninsula

Start the day exploring the town with a local guide. Later, discover the richness of the Istrian Peninsula with its Italian and Croatian influences. Pay a visit to a local distillery where the owners use regional plants, fruits, and herbs to produce brandies, snacks and other treats. Discover Motovun, a beautiful example of a small Croatian town. In late afternoon, sample culinary delicacies of the Istrian Peninsula during dinner at a farm to table restaurant, complete with regional wines.

Day 3: Opatija - Plitvice Lakes

After breakfast, travel to Croatia’s most beautiful national park, Plitvice Lakes. This UNESCO World Heritage site promises inspiring scenery as you travel among its 16 terraced lakes and dense forests. A series of waterfalls and free fl owing cascades connects each lake to the other. Complete the experience with a short cruise that takes you into the heart of this natural wonder.

Day 4: Plitvice Lakes - Dubrovnik

This morning, continue south through the heart of Croatia, towards the medieval city of Dubrovnik. Along the way, enjoy magnifi cent views of the sparkling blue waters of the Adriatic Sea.

Day 5: Dubrovnik

Join an expert local guide on a tour of “Old Dubrovnik,” a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Franciscan Monastery, where Europe’s oldest pharmacy lies; Rector’s Palace, the City Walls, and many more historical sites. During your stay in Dubrovnik you have the special opportunity to personalise your tour and partake in one of two inclusions: Elaphiti Islands* cruise (today) or Montenegro excursion (tomorrow). This afternoon features either your first choiceor leisure time to relax or independently explore Dubrovnik on your own. Those who have chosen today’s option will set out on a cruise around the Elaphiti Islands, stopping along the way at a local fi shing village to get a taste of island life. The name of these islands comes from the ancient Greek word for deer, which used to inhabit the islands in large numbers. Roman author Pliny the Elder was the fi rst to mention the islands by name in his work, Naturalis Historia, published in the 1st century. Today, they remain an oasis of traditional Croatian coastal living just off the bustling coast.

Day 6: Dubrovnik

Today is at leisure to relax or independently explore Dubrovnik’s breath-taking Old Town with its marble streets and beautiful baroque buildings. Or, you can join an optional excursion to Montenegro.

Day 7: Dubrovnik - Split

Today, savour stunning sea views as you travel up the winding coastal road, hugging the sheer cliffs that drop into the aquamarine Adriatic Sea. Enjoy a stop in a quaint village in the Croatian countryside. You will have time to taste the local specialties and perhaps walk through the village square. Upon arrival in Split, set out on a walking tour featuring the impressive Diocletian’s Palace, one of the most significant late Roman historical monuments and a UNESCO World Heritage site. In addition, see the peristyle of the palace and the Temple of Jupiter. Then, continue to your hotel located in the centre of Split.

Day 8: Split - Ljubljana, Slovenia

Your adventure continues as you travel up the coast, into Slovenia, and on to today’s destination – the quaint capital of Ljubljana. During the drive, take in the spectacular scenery. Later, arrive in Ljubljana and enjoy your afternoon at leisure to relax or get acquainted with the city on your own.

Day 9: Ljubljana - Lake Bled

This morning you will be met by a local expert who will introduce you to this lovely town nestled along the banks of the river. Your tour includes the impressive City Hall and a visit to the magnificent Cathedral of St. Nicholas. After free time for lunch, drive a short distance to tranquil Lake Bled. Experience the old-world charm that comes with taking a “pletna” boat to the picturesque island in the centre of Lake Bled. Spend time exploring the 17th century cathedral, St. Mary’s Church, and the “wishing bell.” Enjoy some time to stroll the quiet paths of this lakeside community at your own pace.

Day 10: Ljubljana - Zagreb, Croatia

Today we travel to Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, and embark on a fascinating tour. Continue your exploration your way with free time this afternoon. Tonight, enjoy dinner at a popular local restaurant.

Day 11: Zagreb - Home

Your tour comes to a close in Zagreb this morning. Arrive back in the UK where our door to door airport transfer service will take you home.

Collette brochure price from £1304

Travel 55 discount price from £1213

Telephone Collette Holidays on 0800 804 8700 and quote Travel 55 code NYC2

Must-See Inclusions

• Spend three nights in Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic.”
• Experience the wonder of 16 cascading lakes at Plitvice Lakes National Park.
• In Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, enjoy an included city tour.
• Enhance your stay in Dubrovnik with a choice of excursions.