Where UNESCO Heritage Meets Alpine Wilderness
Slovenia & Croatia: The Grand Tour
Designed for travelers who want to explore two of Europe's most scenic corners in one journey, this route brings together Slovenia's must-see destinations — Lake Bled, Bohinj, Ljubljana and the Adriatic coast — with Croatia's UNESCO-listed landscapes and Venetian harbour towns: the cascading lakes of Plitvice and the Istrian coast, like Rovinj, Pula and Lim Fjord, and more.
Start Your Journey
No payment required until your journey is fully confirmed. By submitting this form you agree to our Privacy Policy.
Slovenia, Croatian Istria and the Plitvice Lakes
Glacial lakes and Julian Alps in Slovenia, Roman amphitheatres and hilltop villages in Istria — two countries, one arc.
Your journey begins at a thermal resort in the Slovenian countryside — a gentle immersion into spa and wellness traditions that have defined this region for centuries. It's also your base for the first major excursion: the Plitvice Lakes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Croatia where sixteen terraced lakes cascade into one another through canyon forest, connected by a network of wooden walkways above the water.
From the thermal resort, the journey continues to the iconic shores of Lake Bled and the glacial stillness of Lake Bohinj — where the Savica Waterfall tumbles down from the mountains into the valley below. The route then crosses into Croatian Istria — shaped by centuries of Roman, Venetian and Austro-Hungarian rule — with stops in Pula, Rovinj, the medieval hilltop village of Motovun, and the dramatic Lim Fjord.
On one of your days in Slovenia, you choose how it unfolds. Visit Ljubljana, Slovenia's compact and captivating capital, paired with the medieval walled city of Piran on the Adriatic coast, or spend the day exploring Postojna Cave — the most visited cave in Europe — and the extraordinary Predjama Castle, built into the face of a living cliff. Both are included in the journey; the choice is yours.
Throughout, you stay in carefully selected 4-star hotels: four nights at a thermal resort, and three nights in Ljubljana — where your evenings are entirely your own.
If Croatia falls outside your plans, Scenic Slovenia: From the Alps to the Adriatic follows a scenic route through Slovenia's most inspiring landscapes, while Classic Slovenia: The Essential Journey covers the country's most iconic landmarks.
Your journey begins at a thermal resort in the Slovenian countryside — a gentle immersion into spa and wellness traditions that have defined this region for centuries. It's also your base for the first major excursion: the Plitvice Lakes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Croatia where sixteen terraced lakes cascade into one another through canyon forest, connected by a network of wooden walkways above the water.
From the thermal resort, the journey continues to the iconic shores of Lake Bled and the glacial stillness of Lake Bohinj — where the Savica Waterfall tumbles down from the mountains into the valley below. The route then crosses into Croatian Istria — shaped by centuries of Roman, Venetian and Austro-Hungarian rule — with stops in Pula, Rovinj, the medieval hilltop village of Motovun, and the dramatic Lim Fjord.
On one of your days in Slovenia, you choose how it unfolds. Visit Ljubljana, Slovenia's compact and captivating capital, paired with the medieval walled city of Piran on the Adriatic coast, or spend the day exploring Postojna Cave — the most visited cave in Europe — and the extraordinary Predjama Castle, built into the face of a living cliff. Both are included in the journey; the choice is yours.
Throughout, you stay in carefully selected 4-star hotels: four nights at a thermal resort, and three nights in Ljubljana — where your evenings are entirely your own.
If Croatia falls outside your plans, Scenic Slovenia: From the Alps to the Adriatic follows a scenic route through Slovenia's most inspiring landscapes, while Classic Slovenia: The Essential Journey covers the country's most iconic landmarks.
Route
Route
Illustrative route map. Locations and route lines have been adjusted for visual clarity and do not represent exact geographic positions or travel paths
Places You'll Visit
Thermal Resorts
Spend time in either Rogaška Slatina or Rimske Terme, two of Slovenia’s most historic thermal spa destinations. Immerse yourself in centuries-old thermal traditions, unwind in mineral-rich waters, and experience a slower pace of life in surroundings designed for rest, well-being, and renewal.
Plitvice Lakes National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited natural landmarks in Europe. Sixteen terraced lakes cascade into one another through ancient canyon forest, connected by a network of wooden walkways suspended above the water. The colour of the lakes shifts with the light and the season — from deep emerald to vivid turquoise — and no photograph quite does it justice until you're standing above the falls yourself.
Lake Bled
Slovenia’s most iconic destination and one of the most photographed alpine lakes in Europe. Surrounded by mountains and crowned by a thousand-year-old castle perched high above the water, Lake Bled looks like something from a fairy tale. The charming lakeside town of Bled is a wonderful place to relax, stroll along the shoreline, and enjoy the beauty of the region in every season.
Lake Bohinj
Slovenia's largest glacial lake sits at the heart of Triglav National Park, surrounded by forested slopes and limestone peaks that reflect in its still, deep-blue water. Unlike Lake Bled, Bohinj has no island, no castle and no crowds — just the lake, the mountains and an unhurried stillness that feels increasingly rare. One of the most quietly beautiful places in Slovenia — and a perfect way to spend a day.
Ljubljana
One of Europe’s greenest capitals, Ljubljana blends a rich history with a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Wander through its charming medieval streets, cross the famous Dragon Bridge, and discover the legends that made the dragon the symbol of the city. With its beautiful riverside setting, vibrant cultural life, and growing gastronomic scene, Ljubljana is often considered one of Europe’s most delightful hidden capitals.
Rovinj
Rovinj is the kind of town that stops you in your tracks. A tangle of pastel-coloured houses rises from a narrow peninsula jutting into the Adriatic, topped by the tower of St. Euphemia's Basilica visible from miles out to sea. The old town's cobbled streets are too narrow for cars, the harbour fills each evening with fishing boats and yachts, and the light on the water in the late afternoon is something you don't forget.
Lim Fjord
A dramatic natural inlet cutting deep into the Istrian peninsula from the Adriatic — forested cliffs rising steeply on both sides, the water below calm and dark green, the silence broken only by the occasional boat. The fjord has been farmed for oysters and mussels for centuries, and a lunch of fresh shellfish at one of the small restaurants along the water is one of the quietly memorable experiences of the Istrian day.
Motovun
A medieval hilltop village perched above the Mirna River valley in the heart of Istria, surrounded by truffle forests and vineyards. Motovun's walls and towers have stood since the 13th century, and the view from the ramparts — across a sea of oak forest and rolling hills stretching to the horizon — is one of the finest in all of Croatia. The village itself is tiny, unhurried, and entirely unchanged by tourism.
Pula
At the southern tip of the Istrian Peninsula sits one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world. Pula's amphitheatre — built in the 1st century AD and still intact — seats 20,000 people and remains in active use today. Beyond the arena, the old town is layered with Roman gates, temples and forum squares that have stood for two millennia, giving Pula a density of history that few cities of its size can match.
Your Choice of Excursion
Your journey includes one of the following excursions — choose whichever appeals to you most
Postojna Cave, Predjama Castle
Two of Slovenia’s most extraordinary sites, visited in a single day. Postojna, Europe’s most visited cave, takes you deep underground by railway through vast chambers filled with stalactites and stalagmites. It is also home to the olm, a rare blind amphibian once believed to be the offspring of dragons. Nearby, Predjama Castle is built into the mouth of a cave halfway up a sheer cliff — one of Europe’s most unusual fortresses.
Piran
Piran is a beautifully preserved historic town and one of the cultural treasures of the Slovenian coast. With its medieval architecture, narrow winding streets leading down to the main square, charming cafés, and Italian-inspired restaurants, it is widely considered one of the most photogenic and picturesque towns on the Adriatic Sea.
Accommodation
Throughout the journey, you’ll stay in carefully selected 4-star hotels chosen for their comfort and location. Your stays in Ljubljana and at a Slovenian thermal resort place you close to the key experiences of each region, combining easy access to the capital’s historic centre with the peaceful setting and restorative atmosphere of thermal Slovenia.
3 nights.
4-star hotel with breakfast
4-star hotel with breakfast
Ljubljana
Three nights in Slovenia's capital, where the old town comes alive each evening — riverside cafés filling with locals, the castle glowing above the rooftops, and the gentle rhythm of a city that never feels rushed. Spend your free time wandering the cobbled streets, crossing the Dragon Bridge, or simply settling into a café along the Ljubljanica for an evening glass of wine.
Properties such as Best Western Hotel Slon, Eurostars uHotel or Occidental Ljubljana are a good example of what we select in this area.
Properties such as Best Western Hotel Slon, Eurostars uHotel or Occidental Ljubljana are a good example of what we select in this area.
4 nights.
4-star hotel with breakfast and dinner
4-star hotel with breakfast and dinner
Thermal Resort
Discover the famous Donat Mg mineral water in the legendary spa town of Rogaška Slatina, famous for its centuries-old wellness tradition, or enjoy the peaceful adults-only atmosphere of historic Rimske Terme. Both destinations offer thermal pools, beautiful natural surroundings, and a chance to experience one of Slovenia’s most cherished wellness traditions. Please let us know your preferred resort when submitting your request.
Properties such as Grand Hotel Donat or Rimski Dvor are a good example of what we select for the thermal resort experience
Properties such as Grand Hotel Donat or Rimski Dvor are a good example of what we select for the thermal resort experience
Itinerary
This journey moves between two countries, crossing between Slovenia and Croatia as the route unfolds — each day carries you somewhere new, from alpine lakes and thermal springs to canyon waterfalls, coastal towns and the sun-baked villages of Istria.
Day 1
Day 1
Arrival in Ljubljana
Meet and greet at Ljubljana Airport
Private transfer to your thermal resort
Check-in at the hotel
Free time to relax and enjoy the resort facilities
Dinner at the hotel
Private transfer to your thermal resort
Check-in at the hotel
Free time to relax and enjoy the resort facilities
Dinner at the hotel
Day 2
Day 2
Plitvice Lakes, Croatia
Breakfast at the hotel
Full-day excursion to Plitvice Lakes National Park
Guided walk along the wooden walkways above the lakes and waterfalls
Return to the hotel
Dinner at the hotel
Full-day excursion to Plitvice Lakes National Park
Guided walk along the wooden walkways above the lakes and waterfalls
Return to the hotel
Dinner at the hotel
Day 3
Day 3
A Day at the Thermal Resort
Breakfast at the hotel
Free time to enjoy the resort and thermal pools
Spa treatments are available at an additional cost
Dinner at the hotel
Free time to enjoy the resort and thermal pools
Spa treatments are available at an additional cost
Dinner at the hotel
Day 4
Day 4
Lake Bled, Bohinj, Savica Waterfall
Breakfast at the hotel
Lake Bled sightseeing, including Bled Castle
Lake Bohinj and the Savica Waterfall
Return to the hotel
Dinner at the hotel
Lake Bled sightseeing, including Bled Castle
Lake Bohinj and the Savica Waterfall
Return to the hotel
Dinner at the hotel
Day 5
Day 5
Ljubljana & Your Choice of Excursion
Breakfast at the hotel
Transfer to Ljubljana
Guided walking tour of Ljubljana
Choice of one included excursion:
Evening at leisure in the city
Transfer to Ljubljana
Guided walking tour of Ljubljana
Choice of one included excursion:
- Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle
- Piran: guided walking tour of the old town
Evening at leisure in the city
Day 6
Day 6
Croatian Istria
Breakfast at the hotel
Full-day excursion into Croatian Istria:
Rovinj
Lim Fjord
Pula and the Roman amphitheatre
Motovun
Return to Ljubljana
Evening at leisure
Full-day excursion into Croatian Istria:
Rovinj
Lim Fjord
Pula and the Roman amphitheatre
Motovun
Return to Ljubljana
Evening at leisure
Day 7
Day 7
Free Day in Ljubljana
Breakfast at the hotel
Free time to explore Ljubljana at your own pace
Optional excursions available on request
Evening at leisure
Free time to explore Ljubljana at your own pace
Optional excursions available on request
Evening at leisure
Day 8
Day 8
Departure
Breakfast at the hotel
Check-out
Transfer to Ljubljana Airport
End of the tour
Check-out
Transfer to Ljubljana Airport
End of the tour
Included in This Journey
- 4 nights in a 4-star hotel at a Slovenian thermal resort, with breakfast and dinner
- 3 nights in a 4-star hotel in Ljubljana, with breakfast
- All private transfers as per the itinerary
- Professional English-speaking guide throughout the journey
- Full-day excursion to Plitvice Lakes National Park, including entrance tickets
- Lake Bled, Lake Bohinj, Savica Waterfall sightseeing
- Guided walking tour of Ljubljana
- Choice of excursion: Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle, or guided walking tour of Piran
- Full-day excursion to Croatian Istria: Rovinj, Lim Fjord, Pula and Motovun
Everything above is arranged for you.
All that's left is to choose your dates.
Pricing
Prices are shown per person and are based on the itinerary described on this page and the number of travelers in your private party. Additional nights, alternative excursions, and other itinerary adjustments can be arranged upon request.
Prices are based on adult occupancy. If you are traveling with children under 12, please include their ages in your inquiry so we can provide the most suitable pricing and accommodation options.
Not Included in This Journey
- If you choose Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle as your excursion, entrance tickets are paid locally — approximately €47 per person for both sites combined. Your guide will handle all ticketing on the day.
- Entrance tickets for Bled Castle (~€19 per person) and Ljubljana Castle (~€23 including the return funicular ride) are paid locally.
- Minor entrance fees may apply at certain stops in Piran and Croatian Istria, typically up to €10 per person
- Local tourist tax payable directly at the hotel (approximately €2.50–€3.13 per person, per night)
Not sure yet?
We're happy to answer any questions before you decide — no commitment required.
Questions About This Journey
This is an active sightseeing journey across two countries, so some days do involve longer drives — particularly the excursion to Plitvice Lakes from the thermal resort, and the full day in Croatian Istria. Your private guide and driver handle all logistics, and the journeys between destinations are part of the experience — the landscapes along the way are worth seeing. Most driving days are balanced with several hours of exploration on foot.
Moderate. The Plitvice Lakes involve several kilometres of walking on wooden boardwalks, some with steps. Lake Bled and Ljubljana are easy and walkable. Motovun requires a short uphill walk to reach the old town. The pace throughout is relaxed and can be adjusted to your group's comfort level.
Yes — travelers with children are very welcome on this journey. Plitvice Lakes, Lake Bled and Rovinj are particularly well-suited for families, and the pace throughout can be adjusted to suit younger travelers. If you are travelling with a toddler or very young child, we can still make this work — just mention it in your inquiry and we will shape the journey around your family's needs. Travel here is for everyone.
No. This journey focuses on northwestern Croatia — the Plitvice Lakes and the Istrian Peninsula. Dubrovnik and Split are in southern Dalmatia, over a thousand kilometres away by road, and are not part of this route. If you have questions about what's included geographically, feel free to get in touch before booking.
Classic Slovenia covers Slovenia's most iconic destinations — Lake Bled, Ljubljana, Postojna Cave and the Adriatic coast — and is ideal for first-time visitors to Slovenia. This journey adds Croatia: the UNESCO-listed Plitvice Lakes and a full day in Croatian Istria, making it the better choice for travelers who want to experience both countries in one trip.
Your journey includes one of these excursions — whichever you prefer. Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle is the right choice if you haven't visited either before; the combination is genuinely extraordinary and unlike anything else on the route. Piran is the better choice if you prefer a slower, more atmospheric day — a beautifully preserved coastal town with centuries of Venetian history, easy to explore on foot. Either way, Ljubljana is part of the same day regardless of which option you choose.
Croatia is a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area. Entry requirements depend on your nationality and passport — we recommend checking the current requirements with your country's government or official travel authority before your trip, as conditions can change. For citizens of most Western countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and many others, no visa is required.
Ljubljana Airport (LJU) is the most convenient option for both arrival and departure. Zagreb Airport (ZAG) is also a possibility if you find a better connection, and can be arranged as an alternative starting or ending point upon request.
Yes. Additional nights, alternative excursions and itinerary changes can be arranged upon request. If you would like to spend more time in a particular place — or add a destination — mention it in your inquiry and we will suggest the most practical way to shape the journey around your interests.
Late spring (May) and early autumn (September–October) offer the best combination of comfortable temperatures, good light and fewer crowds — particularly at Plitvice Lakes, which can be very busy in July and August. The journey runs year-round; winter months are quieter and more affordable, though some outdoor experiences are at their best in warmer weather.
Still have questions?
We're happy to talk through the details before you decide
Explore More Journeys
Every route tells only part of the story. Slovenia, Italy and Croatia offer more than one way in.