Compare Adriatic Treasures: Croatia to Venice 2021 by Tauck vs Essential Europe: Italy, Croatia & Mediterranean Magic by G Adventures

Day 1 Arrive Dubrovnik

Tour begins: 6:30 PM, Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik. A transfer is included upon your arrival from Dubrovnik Airport to Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik – a historic hotel overlooking the Adriatic Sea, just steps the medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Meet a lecturer this evening who shares expert insights, past and present, about the country formerly known as Yugoslavia and the places you’ll explore on this trip, before joining him for an intimate welcome dinner at a popular restaurant, accompanied by a private performance of traditional Croatian a capella "klapa" singing.

MEALS : D

LODGING : Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik

PORTOFCALL : Dubrovnik, Croatia

Day 2 Old Town by land & sea & wine tasting

Rise and shine this morning for a day of cultural delights. Ride a cable car to the top of Srd Hill for dazzling views of Dubrovnik and the surrounding landscapes. Get a closer perspective when you descend for a walking tour through Old Town and visit the Main Square. Dubrovnik’s Old Town is completely surrounded by enormous stone walls that date back to the 10th century; view them from the outside on a boat ride along the walls. Wine tasting is on the menu this afternoon during a visit to a winery where you sample wines made from ancient grapes known as “Malvazija” with the guidance of a renowned viniculture engineer. En route back to your hotel, stop in the village of Gruda to meet an “academic artist” who serves as the keeper of local traditions. During your visit, she will present a step-by-step tutorial on silk making as you are treated to homemade juice and cake typical of this region.

MEALS : B

LODGING : Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik

PORTOFCALL : Dubrovnik, Croatia

Day 3 Kotor & Montenegro

Cross the border into neighboring Montenegro and drive to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kotor for a walking tour of this historic city (also known today for its large population of cats, a contemporary symbol of the city), and a visit to the Maritime Museum. Continue to the tiny bay-front village of Perast, built by wealthy sea captains during the 17th and 18th centuries. Walk past the town’s stone houses to the pier for a sail to the man-made islet of Our Lady of the Rocks, topped by a lone church and steeped in legends. Back on shore, enjoy views of Montenegro's coast on your return trip to Dubrovnik for dinner at your hotel.

MEALS : B, D

LODGING : Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik

PORTOFCALL : Kotor, Montenegro

Day 4 Orašac Village, Mostar & Split

Depart for Split this morning, driving through Dalmatian landscapes of seaside villages and farmland to the village of Orašac, founded in 1040. A family-hosted visit to a private farm reveals the time-honored steps of producing olive oil the old-fashioned way and includes a morning snack of fresh cow cheese, home-grown vegetables, warm-from-the-oven bread and wine. Drive to Bosnia for a visit to Mostar, known for its old Turkish houses and Old Bridge, Stari Most, after which it is named. Damaged during the 1990s conflict, the Old Bridge, built by the Ottomans in the 16th century and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has been rebuilt, as have many of the edifices in the Old Town. A guided walking tour ends with an opportunity for free time to spend as you please (if you wish, visit an old, traditional Turkish house); early afternoon,  visit the Museum of Herzegovina, where a resident who lived through the bombings of the 1991-1995 war shares personal stories of survival. Late afternoon, drive to Split for a two-night stay.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Hotel Park (Split)

PORTOFCALL : Split, Croatia

Day 5 Sculpted Art, A Palace & a ferry ride

See the acclaimed collection of works by Croatia’s premier modern sculptor, Ivan Meštrovíc, at the gallery he built as his private residence. Drive to Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by the Roman emperor Diocletian as his retirement home between the late 3rd and the early 4th centuries using local limestone and Brac marble; the city of Split later grew up around the palace. A walking tour of the vast palace complex includes the palace cellars. Your explorations continue on a ferry ride to Brac Island where you will enjoy a family-style lunch in Donji Humac overlooking the bay. Visit Jaksíc gallery after lunch, going behind the scenes to see the artist’s studio and myriad works of art. A late afternoon ferry brings you back to Split for time at leisure.

MEALS : B, L

LODGING : Hotel Park (Split)

PORTOFCALL : Split, Croatia

Day 6 Krka National Park & Fly to Zagreb

Take a scenic drive to Krka National Park to see its spectacular waterfalls and inherent natural beauty. From there, board a boat and sail to Skradin for a visit to ROCA, the House of Dalmatian Smoked Ham, a talk with a farmer and a wedding-style lunch featuring traditional culinary specialties and entertainment. Fly to Zagreb this afternoon for a two-night stay in Croatia's capital city; enjoy dinner at your leisure at your hotel tonight.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Esplanade Zagreb Hotel

PORTOFCALL : Zagreb, Croatia

Day 7 Discover Zagreb & meet Croatia's former Tourism Minister

Strategically located at the crossroads where western and eastern Europe meet, Croatia’s capital city of Zagreb is a blend of old and new, informed by wars and steeped in culture. Start off your day by meeting Croatia's former Minister of Tourism for a discussion on current affairs before setting out to explore Zagreb on foot, the best way to experience this fascinating city. Join our local guides for a walking tour that includes the neo-Gothic Cathedral, a cheese tasting at the fresh market, the main square and a funicular ride to the Upper Town, where you will have lunch at a local restaurant. The rest of the day and evening are yours to spend as you please, pursuing what interests you most in Zagreb.

MEALS : B, L

LODGING : Esplanade Zagreb Hotel

PORTOFCALL : Zagreb, Croatia

Day 8 Trakošćan Castle & Ljubljana

One of the most impressive castles in Croatia, Trakošćan Castle dates back to the 13th century and reflects myriad architectural styles and restorations over its 800+-year history. Costumed knights and ladies-in-waiting welcome you to the castle for a tour and lunch inside the Knights’ Hall, open exclusively for Tauck guests only. Your final destination today is Ljubljana, Slovenia, where your high-rise city-center hotel overlooks the heart of the city. Take a walking tour of Slovenia's capital before enjoying a taste of local culture during dinner at a popular local restaurant.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : InterContinental Ljublijana

PORTOFCALL : Ljubljana, Slovenia

Day 9 Tauck Treats at Ljubljana Castle

Ride a funicular up to Ljubljana Castle this morning; savor panoramic city views and tastings of local cookies, teran liqueur and honey. Drive next to a gingerbread-making workshop in a country village to see how these beloved decorated pastries have been made for centuries, with a tasting of course! Lunch is followed by a visit to 1,000 year-old Bled Castle that includes a live printing demonstration, a talk with the cellar master about the castle’s famous wines and entrance to the upper courtyard museum to learn about the history of Bled. Return to Ljubljana to spend the rest of the day and evening as you wish.

MEALS : B, L

LODGING : InterContinental Ljublijana

PORTOFCALL : Ljubljana, Slovenia

Day 10 Postojna Caves & a truffle farm

We've arranged an exclusive early morning visit to a subterranean world of caverns, halls and passages some two million years in the making when you explore the surprise-filled Postojna Caves from aboard a private electric train and on a guided walk. Head off for another Tauck Exclusive experience at a family-owned truffle farm, where you'll learn about the truffle-hunting process, meet the dogs who sniff out this underground delicacy, and enjoy a tasting followed by a light lunch. Continue on from Slovenia back into Croatia to Savudrija on the Istrian Peninsula for a two-night stay.

MEALS : B, D

LODGING : Grand Park Hotel Rovinj

Day 11 Pula, Olive Oil & a Beer-Pairing dinner

En route to Pula at the southern tip of the Istrian peninsula, stop at a family-run olive oil farm in Vodnjan, renowned for producing one of the top 15 olive oils in the world, for a tasting tour. Arrive in Pula and visit its great amphitheatre, constructed between 27 BC – 68 AD, much of it still standing and still used today. Enjoy lunch at your leisure in the fishing village of Rovinj before returning to the hotel. Dinner tonight is a special affair at San Servolo brewery and includes a guided tour of the production process, expert insights by the beer master, and a beer-pairing dinner featuring six beers and six courses, presided over by a professional beer sommelier. To top off a great evening, a guitar player will entertain with a repertoire of traditional Istrian songs.

MEALS : B, D

LODGING : Grand Park Hotel Rovinj

PORTOFCALL : Rovinj, Croatia

Day 12 Explore Venice & the Doge’s Palace

Travel from Croatia to Venice, Italy, today, arriving in the “City of Canals” midday for a walking tour and a visit to the Doge’s Palace. We invite you to join us this evening for a farewell dinner at the Michelin-starred restaurant in your historic hotel, just steps away from Piazza San Marco.

MEALS : B, D

LODGING : Hotel Metropole

PORTOFCALL : Venice, Italy

Day 13 Journey Home

Tour ends: Venice. Fly home anytime. A transfer is included from Hotel Metropole to Venice’s Marco Polo Airport. Allow a minimum of three hours for flight check-in.

MEALS : B

PORTOFCALL : Venice, Italy

Day 1 Munich

Arrive at any time, find a comfy spot in the hostel to relax or go out to explore before meeting fellow Roamies in the evening.

Day 2 Munich/Innsbruck

Get this adventure started and road trip from Munich to Innsbruck. Nestled snugly in a picturesque valley with panoramic views of the alps, Innsbruck won't disappoint. Get your bearings with the help of your CEO and spend some free time becoming familiar with your hostel and surroundings. Opt to wander along Maria Theresien Street, explore the Grassmayr Bell Foundry, or check out Ambras Castle, famous for its renaissance gardens. Get ready to fill your camera roll!

Day 3 Innsbruck/Venice

Pile onto the bus again and head into the epic scenery of the Dolomites. Think filling your feed with crystal clear mountain lakes and snow-capped peaks. Take a hiatus from the road and stroll around Lake Misurina in the province of Belluno. Known as the “Pearl of Cadore”, you won’t be disappointed with what you find here. The mirror-like reflection of the mountains in the lake makes it seem as if you are walking in a dream. But don’t forget, Venice is the real end goal of today, so try not to get too attached to Belluno, we bet you already did. Tonight join your CEO for a nice cold beverage and see where the night takes you.

Day 4 Venice

“Oh what a night, what a beautiful night…” This tends to be the song stuck in our heads whenever a visit to Venice is on the table. Can’t you just hear that accordion? After becoming acquainted with Venice's cuisine on a CEO-led food tour, and learning of ghostly legends, the day is yours, no judgments here on what you decide to do. From canals to gondola rides, and inspiring architecture, what’s not to love? The main city is small enough that you can walk it in several hours with the added bonus of getting those steps in. Explore the canals, relax in the small squares, and go cafe-hopping for coffee, pastries, wine, or all three, because why not? See Venice from the water on a gondola ride through the canals, run through the pigeons or people watch in St. Mark’s Square, take an elevator ride up to the top of the Campanile Di San Marco for panoramic views of the city below. Your only real job today is to have a blast!!

Day 5 Venice/Florence

We promise your tastebuds will thank you and rejoice with what’s on the menu for today’s adventure. All aboard the train from Venice to Florence. Being one of Italy’s most sought after food capitals, make sure you stuff your face while here. Eat the city’s signature pasta and venture out of those comfort zones to sample any specialty dishes you may stumble upon. Your CEO will point you in the right direction on CEO-led food and market tour. This evening happens to be perfect if you are looking to relax, eat some more (if you can), or recover from those food comas in your hostel before a quick highlight tour of the city.

Day 6 Florence

Live your best life on this free day in Florence! Grab some pals, lace up those walking shoes, and let the good times roll. Take in famous works of art hung in the Uffizi and Galleria dell’Accademia. “Oh and ah” at the grand architectural masterpieces of the Duomo and the Palazzo Pitti, and smell the flowers in Boboli Gardens. Looking for more chill vibes? We got you covered. Walk along the Arno and over the Ponte Vecchio before eating your way through the Firenze’s many cafes, ristorantes, and gelato shops.

Day 7 Florence/Rome

Leave Florence behind and catch the train to Rome. Upon arrival grab your travel mates and enjoy a walking your before letting your appetites run wild on an afternoon food tour; cue those Italian fantasies. Sample pizza, gelato and more as you learn about the heart and soul behind Italian cooking. The night is yours! Did someone say dance party?

Day 8 Rome

From gardens to museums and gelato to slices of pizza we’re pretty sure you’ll have your hands full (literally) on this free day in Rome. You can visit the mighty Colosseum, home to past gladiator tournaments. Walk up the 135 stairs of the Spanish steps. Meander around the Roman Forum; one of the most important Roman ruins in Italy, and stare up at the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel (knowing you could probably never paint something as grand). Whatever you decide, make sure you meet up for tiramisu, limoncello, a glass or two of wine and whatever else you crave along the way. When in Rome right?

Day 9 Rome to Split

It’s all about those good vibes and finding that connection today. Say, “Arrivederci Rome”, as you cruise towards the Adriatic Coast. Once we arrive in Ancona you’ll board an overnight ferry to Split, Croatia. Sleeping cabins are included and we bet you’ll have some stories to tell afterwards. We can’t wait to hear them!

Day 10 Split

Wipe the sleep from those eyes with a quick breakfast onboard the ferry. Then, on your mark, get set, GO explore the second largest city in Croatia! Modern life and ancient history collide here ensuring there’s plenty of experiences to keep you preoccupied. The only challenge? Seeing as much as you can without rushing it. We’ll let you in on a secret. For the best views of the city consider climbing the bell tower of St. Domnius Cathedral, then head out on a sightseeing guided tour to explore Old Town and Diocletian’s Palace. But after all this we wanted to do you a favour, so we’ll give you back your evening to do as you will. Think drinks in the hostel with new friends, or heading out on the town for a night of laughter and dancing. Doesn’t sound like you could go wrong.

Day 11 Split

Take two at exploring Split? Yes, please! Stroll along the Riva Promenade with its palm trees, colourful buildings and striking views of the Adriatic Sea; a great place to get those steps in. Looking for a hike? Consider climbing Marjan Hill where a series of trails crisscross their way to the top. Or... hear us out. You could venture a bit farther to Klis Fortress for panoramic views of the Dalmatian Coast and the “Game of Thrones” filming location for Meereen, just make sure there are no dragons flying about.

Day 12 Split/Korčula

Wow, your friends and family back home will be totally jealous of you today. Set those devices to island time and hop on a Hydrofoil sailing trip to Korčula. Yes, we said Hydrofoil. Feel inspired by the views of the rugged coastline, feel the wind whip through your hair, and be in the moment. Once you arrive, your CEO will come in clutch with another highlight walk of the area. Meet up and see some cool places like the Old Town walls, the birthplace of Marco Polo, and St. Mark’s Cathedral. Discover the local beer scene in the evening or get classy and sip some wine while eating seafood in one of the many delicious restaurants on the island.

Day 13 Korčula/Dubrovnik

Did someone say Peljesac Peninsula? No? Well anyway, you’ll be seeing this gem on your way from Korčula to Dubrovnik. Wave your goodbyes as your fleet of small boats pulls away from shore and head to a place renowned for the best red wine in Croatia. Wander the wall of Ston, from Ston to Mali. Then live your best life with your travel buds and choose to taste this renowned vino and order a dozen of the best oysters in Europe at a local restaurant. Finish up in Dubrovnik on a group walk through the Old Town. Play eye spy and see if you can spot Dubrovnik Cathedral, Lovrijenac Fort, and a Franciscan Monastery. Afterwards, revel in the timeless atmosphere of this port city. You might never leave and we wouldn’t blame you.

Day 14 Dubrovnik

You have a whole day ahead of you to experience Dubrovnik as you please. Admire one of the most gorgeous coastlines in the world, stroll along the city’s walls, hike up to Minčeta Fortress; the highest fort in Dubrovnik only accessible from the city walls. (yes, we know it sounds cool!) Hunt down some Game of Thrones filming locations (there are plenty) and let out your inner Khaleesi! Grab a towel, find a place to swim your heart out, kayak for unique views of the city from the water, and perhaps end your day sipping a beverage and witnessing a gorgeous sunset from a cliff top bar. Sounds like a win in our book.

Day 15 Dubrovnik/Kotor

Pull out those travel journals and cross another country off your bucket-lists today because it’s time to leave Croatia behind and give some love and attention to Montenegro. All of the boxes will be checked today, beautiful sites, quaint villages, and your first glimpse of Kotor Bay, a unique fjord of the Adriatic. You’ll check out the historic village of Perast. Think marvellous buildings, postcard-like churches, and a romantic waterfront that seems to feature in every painting of European sailing towns. Rest of the day you get to hang out with your super cool and fun CEO. They will take you on a highlights walk of UNESCO protected Kotor and show you places like the Old City, St. Tryphon Cathedral, and the famous Clock Tower. Don’t let the fun end here! Make a plan and keep hanging out and see if your CEO can accompany you to a few hole in the wall places that will make your time here truly unique.

Day 16 Kotor

Amazing views and a magical experience are on the menu for today. It all starts as the sun rises over the land on a morning walk to the San Giovanni Fortress. Grab some fun group photos with your CEO as you stand atop the city and revel in the views. The rest of the day belongs to you. Explore, bop around, and experience Kotor as you wish. Even if that means laying low at the hostel with a few friends, we won’t judge, in fact, the best moments often happen when you least expect them. Cat lovers rejoice! Because Kotor has their very own Cat Museum you can visit. Not feeling an afternoon of felines? That’s ok, walk into the impressive interior of St. Nicholas’ Church, hop on a boat and visit Our Lady of the Rocks, or book an excursion to Blue Cave for a bucket-list worthy swim spot.

Day 17 Kotor/Tirana

Another day, another dollar. Just kidding, it’s free to make awesome memories with your friends and it’s guaranteed that you will as you travel along the Montenegrin coastline towards Tirana, Albania. Make a pit stop to St Stefan, part island, part luxury resort. It’s a great place to get out, stretch those legs and pretend you have just arrived on your private yacht like most guests do. From there you’ll get to visit Dolphin-shaped Lake Skadar on the border of Albania and Montenegro. Explore the area surrounded by steep mountains, island monasteries, and crystal-clear waters by foot. Finish the day in Tirana with a half day guided walking tour through the streets featuring Skanderbeg Square!

Day 18 Tirana

The day is yours! Take advantage of free time and get to know Tirana. One of Europe's best-kept secrets, this city hardly ever makes travel bucket lists. Tirana boasts a wide range of optional activities that are guaranteed to charm you. Opt to hike through national parks in the area, or maybe explore history museums that unveil Tirana's turbulent past. Check out food markets full of local cuisine and sweets while you admire the local landmarks of this special place.

Day 19 Tirana/Corfu

It’s no secret that travelling is exhausting! Build up that energy with breakfast in the hostel then drive along the coastal route to Saranda known fondly as the “Albanian Riviera”. Strap those sea legs on as you catch the ferry from Saranda to the island of Corfu where once you arrive you’ll have free time to grab a drink, explore Corfu, and laugh it up with your pals at the hostel.

Day 20 Corfu

Wake up in paradise and know that the choice is yours today and there’s nothing holding you back! Take a taxi and explore the UNESCO-listed town, wander by the laundry swaying in the sea breeze and search for a place to grab lunch and a cocktail or two. Searching for something more exciting and unique? Chill out on an olive oil tasting experience, or learn about bees and honey production in Corfu. Looking for more adventure? Visit an ancient monastery on steep cliffs overlooking the azure waters. Want to just relax? Lay out beachside working on your tan and swimming in the refreshing waters. Turns out you really can’t go wrong on this Greek island. Tonight, opt to go out with the group to Corfu Town and hit up some of the best nightlife spots. The transfer to and from the hostel is included if you choose to go.

Day 21 Corfu

Say goodbye to your Roamies and depart at any time, or keep the adventure going by heading south for some good times and epic views in Greece.