Day 1 : Fly to Croatia

Our journey begins with a flight across the Atlantic Ocean.

Day 2 : Arrive in Zagreb

Upon arriving in Croatia’s capital city, we settle into our hotel for the next three nights. This evening, get to know fellow travelers over a wonderful Welcome Dinner.

Day 3 : City Tour & Trakoscan Castle

Savor a delicious breakfast each morning of our getaway. Our exploration of Zagreb starts with a walking tour, led by a local expert guide. Admire the Austro-Hungarian architecture, the 13th–century church in Upper Town, and the Gothic twin-spired cathedral. Then, enjoy time at leisure to shop for souvenirs or take in the charm of famous Tkalciceva street and the heart of the city, Ban Jelacic Square. Afterwards, we’re off to Lepoglava for a guided tour of one of the country’s most beautiful castles in the bucolic Zagorje Region, Trakoscan Castle. Tonight, our group gathers for dinner at the hotel.

Day 4 : Bled Castle & Licitar Hearts

This morning, we depart for Lake Bled within Slovenia’s picturesque Julian Alps. Embark on a guided walking tour to hear about fascinating myths before visiting medieval Bled Castle, the country’s oldest castle that sits perched on a towering cliff. Our journey continues to 14th-century Radovljica for an included lunch and a workshop to learn how to make traditional Licitar hearts, an integral part of local heritage. On the way back to our hotel, we stop in the capital city of Ljubljana for a guided walking tour and free time. Soak up its tranquil green spaces, browse museums, or stroll along the Ljubljanica River, which divides historic Old Town from the bustling commercial hub.

Day 5 : Plitvice Lakes National Park

We depart today for UNESCO World Heritage-listed Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia’s largest national park. A local guide leads the way as we view lush landscapes with towering waterfalls, natural dams, and karst formations. Enjoy a three-course lunch and sights of the impressive lake system, featuring sixteen emerald-green lakes, before traveling to Split.

Day 6 : Split & the Dalmatian Coast

Today, we explore the stunning coastal city of Split, nestled along the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea. Our guided tour includes sights of Roman monuments, Old Town’s ancient architecture, the gorgeous beachfront, and more. We also visit Diocletian’s Palace, built around 300 AD for the Roman emperor and spanning nearly half of Old Town. Descend into the underground chambers to see the impressive network of passageways and well-preserved remnants! Afterwards, attend an olive oil demonstration and tasting at Stella Croatica, a traditional family estate. The rest of the day is yours to spend as you wish in Split before our group dinner.

Day 7 : Hvar & Fortica Fortress

Our morning features a relaxing ferry ride in the Adriatic Sea to Hvar, where a local guide awaits to show us this island’s best wonders. Marvel at the 13th-century walls, historic main square with the Renaissance-era cathedral, and pristine beaches as we stroll the cobbled streets. We also tour Fortica Fortress, a medieval castle perched high above the town that occupies the site of an ancient Illyrian settlement predating 500 BC. Ascend the stairs to the top of the fort for unrivaled views of Hvar and the Pakleni Islands. After an included lunch, there's time to shop or visit more landmarks before we return to our hotel on the mainland.

Day 8 : Mostar

We travel into Bosnia and Herzegovina today to explore the 15th-century fairytale town of Mostar, most renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Bridge, Stari Most, which spans the Neretva River. Roam the historic streets to see the bustling bazaar with handmade crafts, gaze upon the stunning rugged mountains, and visit the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque to climb the minaret for panoramic views. We also stop by the Muslim Quarter to tour a perfectly preserved 16th-century nobleman’s Ottoman-era Turkish mansion. Next, enjoy a delicious lunch and time for independent exploration. Tonight, we settle into our wonderful accommodations in Dubrovnik, Croatia’s crown jewel.

Day 9 : Dubrovnik

Enjoy soaking in all that the “Pearl of the Adriatic” has to offer today! We embark on a walking tour of Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is enclosed by medieval walls. Wander along the ancient flagstones through hidden alleyways, admire the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, see Onforio’s Fountain, and more. The rest of the day is yours to kayak in the Adriatic Sea, ride a cable car to the top of Mount Srd, visit filming locations for Game of Thrones, or simply browse the charming shops.

Day 10 : Konavle Wine & Silk

Enjoy a leisurely morning before our visit to nearby Konavle, a whimsical town known for its rocky coastline, green valleys, watermills, small canals, and vineyards. Delight your taste buds with locally produced wine, then watch a fascinating presentation on the crucial role silk production has played in the decoration of national costumes. The afternoon is yours to spend as you wish! This evening, we gather to celebrate our adventures with a Farewell Dinner.

Day 11 : Fly Home

We board our flight and return home with fond memories of our time in Europe’s Western Balkans region.