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Beautiful Slovenia & Croatia's Istrian Jewels

16 fascinating days

From Imperial Vienna and the stunning Schönbrunn Palace to beautiful Slovenia and enchanting Croatia, discover some of Europe’s grand cities such as Graz, lovely Ljubljana, classic Zagreb and Trieste in Italy and enjoy Opatija’s ‘Belle Époque’ parks and promenade. Enjoy exciting activities such as a relaxing horse and carriage ride, a trip on a historic boat to a Church in the middle of Slovenia’s Lake Bled, ride high in a cable car above beautiful Lake Bohinj, visit craggy castles, and take in the stunning views across Corinthian Lakes from top of the Pyramidenkogel – Europe’s highest wooden tower. Ride deep into the Postojna Caves and step high inside rock clinging Predjama Castle. Not forgetting our trademark longer stays such as an extra night in Plitvice so you get to properly explore both sets of Plitvice’s cascades and leaping waterfalls and 3 nights in the jewel of the Istrian peninsula – Poreč, with included excursions and visits to picturesque Rovinj, Pula’s Roman Amphitheatre and the ‘time capsule’ mountain village of Grožnjan. What an adventure!

Your tour highlights

  • Lake Bled
  • Predjama Castle
  • Plitvice Lakes
  • Zagreb
  • Porec
  • Lake Bohinj
  • Ljubljana
  • Postojna Caves
  • Trieste
  • Vienna
  • Graz
  • Groznjan

Tour itinerary

Day
1
Vienna

Your tour commences this evening in the Imperial city of Vienna. If you have arrived today on your international ight, experience tells us it is best to keep active through this afternoon and Vienna is such a wonderful city at this time of year with so much to see and do. Dinner tonight is included, but first enjoy a welcome drink. This is an ideal opportunity to meet your Tour Manager and fellow travellers.

Day
2
Vienna and Schönbrunn Palace

This morning we are joined by a local guide for a panoramic city drive past all the grand sights, gardens and monuments of this Imperial City, from the State Opera House to the Hofburg Palace. We have included entrance and a guided tour through the State Apartments of
the magnicent Royal summer residence – Schönbrunn Palace.
Your afternoon and evening is completely free. Relax and enjoy this enchanting city of museums and style. You simply must indulge in the world of the traditional Viennese coffee houses. How about a tall aromatic coffee and a calorie-busting apfel strudel? Maybe a rich chocolate torten cake?

Day
3
Graz Castle & Styrian Armoury

Arriving at Graz, capital of Styria, late morning we have included a funicular ride to the castle complex on top of the Schlossberg Hill. This was once the most formidable fortress in Europe, before being razed by Napoleon. The views from the Stallbastei bastion down over the medieval city are tremendous. The Bell Tower dates from the 16th century, the Türkenbrunnen (Turkish well) is 94 metres deep. We have
also included entrance to the fascinating Styrian Armoury – the world’s largest historic armoury with approximately 32,000 pieces of weaponry and elaborate suits of armour for both war and grand parades. Your beautiful Schloss Hotel is in the very heart of this UNESCO World heritage listed city. Your afternoon and evening are at leisure in this medieval town.

Day
4
Pyramidenkogel Tower & Bled Castle

A beautiful drive today as we drive along lakes, through the hills, mountains and undulating meadows of Corinthia. On top of one hill is an amazing wooden observation tower called the Pyramidenkogel. This is Europe’s highest wooden tower and we have included entrance so you can ride in the lift to the sheltered observation platform at the top (or walk up the stairs!) and take in the astonishing 360 degree
views along two ‘picture postcard’ lakes. A fantastic experience. In the afternoon we enter the Julian Alps and arrive at the natural wonder of Lake Bled, in Slovenia, where the tranquil waters are surrounded by impressive mountains and overlooked by the imposing castle. On arrival we will visit the cli top, medieval Bled Castle dramatically perched 130 metres above the lake. Dating back 1,000 years it is a
symbol of Bled and Slovenia. We stay here in Bled in Lake View rooms, right beside the lake, in the heart of town for the next three nights. Dinner tonight is included in the hotel.

Day
5
Horse carriage, Pletna boat & Bled Cake

First activity of the day will be a relaxing horse and carriage ride along the shores of Lake Bled. Next, we board a traditional ‘Pletna’ boat to cross the placid lake waters to the picturesque Church of the Assumption on the small island. In addition, in the classic, lakeside Kavarna Café, we have included a coffee and cake – Kremna Rezina – known simply as Bled Cake. It is like a vanilla slice, but the way they make it… mmm… delicious! Then it is time at leisure – ‘My Time’ to relax and savour the beauty of Lake Bled. Your evening is at leisure.

Day
6
Lake Bohinj, Vogel cable car & wine tasting dinner

There is nothing quite like a day playing in the mountains! After a leisurely start, driving into the Bohinj Valley, which stretches through the Triglav National Park, we reach beautiful Lake Bohinj. Following the pretty shore to the far end we board a cable car which whisks us up Vogel Mountain. Time to relax and enjoy lunch in one of the mountain restaurants and marinate yourself in the views down across the lake and out across the peaks. The remainder of your afternoon is at leisure back in Bled. This evening we have included a tasting of local wines before a dinner of regional specialties in a local restaurant.

Day
7
Charming Ljubljana, quaint bridges and old town

This morning we are joined by a local guide to visit Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana, which means ‘beloved’ in Slovene. Retaining the charm and warmth of a small town, it is filled with baroque churches, palaces, museums, and quaint bridges traversing the canals and rivers. Afterwards, you will have ‘My Time’ to explore the pedestrian areas in the historic Old Town filled with cafes, shops and riverside restaurants. Later we reach Croatia’s capital, Zagreb, where we stay the next two nights. The centre of town is so easily accessible as our
hotel is only a short walk away. Dinner is included in a local restaurant.

Day
8
Zagreb

This morning we are joined by a local guide who will take us on a walking tour through this vibrant city. Your afternoon and evening will be free. ‘My Time’ to explore at leisure. The shopping is excellent.

Day
9
Rastoke, Plitvice Lower Falls and Lake Kozjak

On our way to Plitvice today, we first visit a true shop, and then also stop briefly in Rastoke where the little village houses are split and surrounded by numerous tiers of small waterfalls spilling and tumbling right through town. Later we arrive at Plitvice, famous for its majestic, grand cascades and enormous waterfalls set in a stunning, scenic gorge. Your afternoon is at leisure walking along the riverside boardwalks of the lower falls area, in and amongst the pretty cascades. At Lake Kozjak, we board a boat to cruise the length of the lake, and arrive at our hotel which is located close to the shore, in the centre of the National Park. Spectacular! We elect to spend two nights in Plitvice because here there are actually two sets of magnificent waterfalls, and this gives us ample time to take them both in, and properly
absorb their beauty.

Day
10
Plitvice Upper

Today you can do as little or as much as you want. Your entire day is free – ‘My Time’. Your hotel is set barely 300 metres from the lakes edge, and your National Park tickets include a short boat crossing so you can also walk around Plitvice’s Upper set of waterfalls and cascades. Many say this Upper set has better views and is  more rewarding, because the winding bridges and walkways are quieter with less tourists. Perhaps enjoy a beverage amongst the pine trees on the lake side, or a leisurely walk along the waterside pathways. A wonderfully relaxing day!

Day
11
Opatija’s ‘Belle Époque’ and the jewel of Poreč

Crossing to the Adriatic coast we reach Opatija late morning. In the 19th century Opatija evolved as a fashionable riviera where the elite of the Habsburg Empire and Russia partied. Opatija’s ‘Belle Époque’ (Beautiful Age) is attested by its seaside parks, gardens, and Lungomare promenade which snakes its way past little harbour inlets and coves. Littered with restaurants and cafes, you’ll enjoy lunchtime here at leisure with plenty of free time to explore. Later in the afternoon we cross the Istrian Peninsula to beautiful Poreč where we stay three nights right beside the harbour in the old town.

Poreč is one of Croatia’s seaside jewels and makes a perfect base for our included excursions to the south and inland areas. The historic old town is located on a small peninsula, and as you would expect with its 1,000-year-old history, boasts little winding stone paved streets and small squares lined with local cafes and restaurants. A gorgeous atmosphere. Its 6th-century Euphrasian Basilica complex is famous for its gem-studded Byzantine mosaics.

Day
12
Pula Amphitheatre & Rovinj old town

This morning we drive to the south of the peninsula, to Pula, where we have included a guided visit to the beautifully preserved Roman Amphitheatre.

After free time in the old town, we then visit another Istrian city gem – Rovinj. Your time will be at leisure to explore this
delightful old town and settle into that perfect waterside restaurant or konoba (tavern) for lunch. Later in the afternoon we have included an aperitif in a very special place where the elevated terrace has astounding views across the water and on to picture perfect Rovinj. Your
evening is at leisure back in Poreč.

Day
13
Poreč, Grožnjan and Veralda Winery tour & tasting

Your morning is at leisure. ‘My Time’ to do as little or as much as you want in Poreč old town. In the afternoon it’s time for us to venture inland and explore the Istrian hills. First stop will be the amazing hilltop village of Grožnjan. Tiny stone houses cram a maze of ancient
stone streets and alleys, a true heritage timepiece. After time to wander around independently we then continue to nearby Brtonigla, and the Veralda Winery for a cellar tour and wine tasting. Amongst a variety of delicious local wines, you will also sample their Veralda Xtrian
which, in London in 2016, was voted the best single variety red wine in the world.

Day
14
Postojna Caves, dramatic Predjama Castle & Trieste

We have an incredible day planned for you! Crossing back into Slovenia we reach Postojna where we enjoy a mesmerizing train ride deep into to a stupendous labyrinth of massive caves. Our guided walking tour will then take us along easy, winding walkways amongst gorgeously illuminated, enormous caverns, stalagmites and stalactites. World renowned, the Postojna Caves are an astonishing experience.

Afterwards we also visit one of the most extraordinary castles in the world. Predjama Castle is set dramatically in the gaping
mouth of a cavern halfway up a 123m cli and is listed as the world’s largest cave castle. Dating back 800 years, most of what you will see is 500 years old and its armory, halls, living quarters and dungeons take you back to the 16th century. Later we reach the coastal city of Trieste, and we enjoy an orientation drive, including a stop on San Giusto Hill. The first inhabitants here go back as far as prehistoric times, and here you will see the medieval castle and ruins of an ancient Roman basilica sitting next to a 14th century cathedral. Our last two nights will be here in Trieste, in a grand old-style hotel right on Trieste’s waterfront. The main city square of Piazza Unità
d’Italia (the Unity of Italy Square) is just one block away. This huge square overlooking the sea is surrounded by truly grand buildings and cafes and in the evenings, it is gorgeously illuminated and bustling. The wide canal that cuts through the pedestrian streets is lined with
numerous Italian restaurants. The remainder of your afternoon and evening are at leisure to explore and enjoy.

Day
15
Castello di Miramare and Trieste Farewell Dinner

A leisurely start as we travel just outside of Trieste to visit the delightful Castello di Miramare. Set in a spectacular location on a rocky spur jutting out into the Gulf of Trieste, Miramare (meaning “look at the sea”) was built in the mid-19th century for the Austrian Archduke
Ferdinand Maximilian (House of Habsburg) and his wife, Charlotte of Belgium. They later became the Emperor and Empress of Mexico. Miramare is not really a castle, but rather a fantastic example of a magnificent, princely residence of the 19th century. ‘Maximilian’s Rooms’ include the archduke’s bedroom designed and furnished like a ship’s cabin, and the ‘Throne Room’. The ‘castle’ is set in a large,
extravagant Italian- English-style garden, with sculptures and plants and trees collected by Maximillian on his travels. Your afternoon will be free back in Trieste, and this evening we have arranged a farewell dinner.

Day
16
Transfer to Venice

This morning, we will transfer you to Venice and arrive late morning. We will make stops at Venice Marco Polo airport and Mestre railway station. We recommend that you book flights or trains that depart Venice after 2pm today.

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Tour pricing:

from $10,986

per person twin/double share*

Twin-share / solo traveller pricing:
15 Jun 2025 - 30 Jun 2025
NZD$10,986 / NZD$13,846
18 Aug 2025 - 02 Sep 2025
NZD$10,986 / NZD$13,846

To secure your place now:

Phone: 03 364 3400 or 0800 747 737
Email: [email protected]

Contact Us for details

Tour Inclusions:

  • Travel in a first-class air-conditioned touring coach.
  • Welcome drink on Day 1
  • 23 meals including breakfast daily (B), and 9 evening meals (D)
  • A complimentary glass of wine, beer or soft drink with all included dinners.
  • 15 nights authentic, specially selected hotel accommodation
    Free WiFi at most hotels (where available)
  • Lake View rooms at Park Hotel in Lake Bled
  • Hotel porterage of 1 bag per person (where available)
  • Fully escorted by our experienced Tour Manager
  • Personal audio system whilst on tour (where available)
  • Local guides as described in the itinerary
  • ALL tips for your Tour Manager, Driver and Local Guides
    Hand Selected Albatross Experiences including visit to Pyramidenkogel Observation Tower, Graz sightseeing, Lake Bled boat cruise and horse and carriage ride, Plitvice Lakes and Lower Falls.
  • Lake Bohinj Vogel Cable car ride, 3 nights in the Istrian Jewel of
    Poreč, visits to Postojna Caves, Predjama Castle and Castello di Miramare in Trieste.
  • ALL excursions, scenic drives, sightseeing and entrances as described.

Not included:

Conditions:

There are a number of beautiful towns and sites we visit which require exploring on foot. We include a cable car ride up mountains. Whenever you are at even a moderate altitude breathing becomes a little more laboured, when you exert yourself. Having said that, neither summit we visit is very high, and there is no need to do anything but take in the views. So as long as you take things easy and go at a more leisurely pace (and with Albatross we have time!) you will be fine.
We had a fabulous trip away. Insight and Avalon were just wonderful, couldn’t fault them at all. Thank you so much for all your input and help.
Europe in Winter, Nikki & Steve
Everything you organised worked really well. The timings and explanations on arrival at places was brilliant. The hotels were all handily located to centre of old towns. The 2 Intrepid Trips provided extra understanding of the areas as did the 3 day Hurtigruten cruise.
Scandinavia, Bronwyn & Gordon
The "Sea Cloud" experience was above expectation and more! All your plans worked perfectly and we enjoyed the Somewhere Boutique Hotel at Voulagemeni. Absolutely no problem with the flights. Our accommodation was more than adequate, food excellent and the service 5+ star. We would strongly recommend this 'once in a lifetime' experience.
Adriatic, Paul & Ann
Overall its was an absolutely amazing experience, thank you for all clear information you had given us, really helpful to figure out where is our hotel and how to move from one place to another. Thank you so much for organizing this trip and doing such a good job.
Europe, Ai Ngo and Adrian
We really enjoyed the cruise and this was certainly one of the highlights of the trip. The Azamara cruise was ideal being a smaller boat (and numbers of people) but still provided great service and entertainment. The cruise we did from Athens to Venice was perfect with a destination each day to visit and a great variety of places. I would certainly recommend this cruise company and this particular voyage option.
Europe, Rob & Nikki
We’ve had a fabulous time in Portugal, outstanding guide, great food and wine and the National Geographic tour was superb. What a wonderful country, lovely people and great sights.
Portugal, David & Jill
We had a fantastic day at Plitvice today - very wet and overcast but absolutely stunning and loved every minute of our 12kms walking and photographing!! Loving our hotel here too ... another perfect one thank you!
Croatia, David & Joss
Sandra and I are back at home now after a couple of great months away.  The whole trip was great, so thanks for your help with the bookings etc. No issues at all. We very much enjoyed the Rhine cruise with Viking. We couldn’t fault their service and effort, and are happy to recommend them to others.  
Europe, Murray & Sandra
The trip was fantastic thanks very much for all your input.  Everything worked seamlessly with the flights, accommodation, and car rentals that you booked for us.  The places you booked for us were all in a good location.   The cycle trip through Burgundy was also definitely a highlight. It was truly a trip of a lifetime with everything that we managed to squeeze in, and having a lot of it organised for us was a real treat.
Europe, Mike & Nicky
Our trip went very well. We loved Ireland with Back Roads, excellent guide and good group. We think of three things, its green, narrow roads and old stone fences! Very interesting history. Hurtigruten had ungraded us to Cabin 601, right at the front with three windows, nice and spacious so very enjoyable. We had rougher seas around the Hebredies and Orkneys but all good.
UK & Ireland, Barbara
Back safe and sound after a wonderful cruise and Greek Island stay. Barcelona amazing and our little hotel was perfect. So handy to everything. The Viking cruise was pure luxury . Food, cabin décor entertainment , just perfect. My favourite places visited were Sicily, all the Croatian coast, towns and villages. Our Greek island stay very good with nice family hotel. Not so keen on the ferry. Like being in a plane. Very quick! Business was great and it would be hard to fly any other way now. Anyway Ian thank you so much for organising a great holiday for us. Very much appreciated. I haven’t completely ruled out travelling again!!
Mediterranean, Lois
Thank you Peter for once again, your meticulous planning for us. The trains worked admirably and we had plenty of time for connections. It is sometime since we have travelled in Europe but we have had a fabulous time despite only three sunny days in UK and Europe. Free use of public transport in Basel and Geneva great. Oyster card worked well in London. Lauterbrunnen was Swiss fairytale. A three day pass meant we did heaps and the weather cleared on our last day so we enjoyed Jungfrau plus views of The Eiger. Lots of Indian tourists/ has featured in a Bollywood movie. Weather didn’t clear in Zermatt/ so didn’t see Matterhorn. Left 42 degrees in Dubai. Sunday breakfast up the Burj. Thanks Peter you are an excellent travel agent.
Holland & Switzerland, Alison
A big thank you for organising bookings for us. Everything went according to plan. Managed to catch everything, nothing delayed , except Easyjet which you kind of expect.
Europe, Lesley
We had an absolutely fabulous holiday.  I adored Switzerland, the people, the scenery, just everything.  Every day was better than the day before, couldn't fault anything. The hotels and transport were spot on.  Simon skied 5 days and I found plenty to do.  It was easy meeting people and exploring by myself. Thank you so much for all your organising.  This trip has given me so much confidence to explore other European countries and winter climates.
Switzerland, Lynne