Tour Central Europe

2020 Adriatic Splendor: Slovenia, Croatia and the Adriatic Sea

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Tour Details

Departure: Sunday, October 4, 2020*
*From your point of departure in the US for Ljubljana
Pick-up: Monday, October 5, 2020 from Ljubljana Brnik Airport (LJU)
Returning: Thursday, October 22, 2020 From Ljubljana Brnik Airport

Once upon a time, Yugoslavia was a country in Southeastern Europe during most of the 20th century. It came into existence after World War I in 1918. After an economic and political crisis in the 1980s, Yugoslavia broke up, at first into five countries, which led to the Yugoslav Wars. Today there are seven independent countries that rose from the ashes of former Yugoslavia's turmoil. Still today, many people struggle to understand the complicated breakup of Yugoslavia and how these countries evolved to its present form.

To help you understand Yugoslavia’s rich history, we are inviting you to experience two remarkable and fascinating countries of Slovenia and Croatia. In Slovenia, you will experience with the dominating Julian Alps and WW I sites, deep gorges and the mysterious area of Karst, green forests and pastures, vineyards and the first "taste" of the Adriatic Sea at Piran. Croatia will make you wonder where to place it. You will find fascinating coastline with hidden coves, the turquoise Adriatic Sea, historic Roman villages and ruins, Venetian bell towers and dramatic mountains. The Dalmatian Coast dominated by many islands in the Adriatic to the spectacular Dubrovnik in the very South. Venturing inland through the mountain ranges to the stunning waterfalls and turquoise colored lakes at Plitvice Lakes National Park. We will conclude our adventure in Ljubljana, the city of love and capital of Slovenia. In both countries you will be spoiled by their culinary specials, such as seafood and tasty local wines.

Tour Highlights:
Lake side town of Bled • Vingtar cascade gorge • fairy-tale village of Radovljica – breathtaking exploration of the Vrsic Pass (WW I historical sites) in the Julian Alps • Lipica, the home of the noble white Lipizzaner horses • Postojna Caves, one of the world’s most impressive underground caves • ancient coastal town of Piran on the Slovenian Adriatic • historic central Dalmatian city of Sibenik • romantic cities of Stari Grad and Hvar on the Mediterranean island of Hvar • the "Pearl of the Adriatic, the old town of Dubrovnik • city of Split including the ancient Diocletian’s Palace • hiking in the picturesque Plitvice Lakes National Park • historic Ljubljana, and much more.

Itinerary | Tour Specifications and Pricing | Photo-Gallery | Reservations

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Itinerary

DAY 1:
Arrival and pick-up in Ljubljana, Slovenia capital city's airport in Brnik. From the airport we will depart due Northeast to the city of Bled, ABOUT 35 minutes away. Bled is the only lakeside town in Slovenia situated in a serene valley beneath craggy mountains. Lake Bled, Slovenia’s leading mountain resort comes complete with a sweeping alpine panorama, a fairy- tale island, a cliff-hanging medieval castle, a lakeside promenade, and the country’s most sought after dessert - vanilla-custard-and-cream cake - called kremna rezina.

Depending on our arrival, there will be time on your own to cruise through a portion of the city.
Overnight in Bled.

DAY 2:
In the morning there will time for us to relax and/or take a walk to the nearby lake. After lunch we will take a boat trip to a medieval Tyrolean-style cloister Bled nestled on the wooded island of Otok.

Next, there will be a visit to the medieval Bled Castle majestically overlooking the town and the lake. Following the Bled Castle tour we will enjoy a welcome dinner and tour orientation.
Overnight in Bled.
(B-D)

DAY 3:
This day is calling for a day filled with fun activities. The first excursion will take us to the Vingtar cascade gorge and a very pleasant mile-long scenic hike along the “wild” River Radovna. Vingtar is a very interesting nature gap which is above the roaring water cascades ending in a waterfall. Boardwalks and bridges put you right in the middle of the action. In the afternoon we will visit the historic town of Radovljica, located nearby Bled.

After lunch we will drive to the Bohinjske Lake, Slovenia's largest lake. It's brooding and mystical feel are encouraged by the steep mountain faces that rise out of the lake on the northern side, with mountain peaks also dominating the background to the west and south. If it is nature and alpine beauty you long for, then Bohinj is your number one choice! Take the cable car to the top of the range of Triglav (Slovenian Alps), where a cable car whizzes us up to the summit of Mount Vogel (5100 feet) in no time – if the Alps look dramatic from the lakeside, from Vogel’s summit they’re breathtaking.

In the evening, we will enjoy a private dinner with musical entertainment at a family farm Mulej located in the village Selo, in the close vicinity of Bled.
Overnight in Bled.
(B-D)

DAY 4:
Most of this day we will spend traveling and indulging in the natural beauty of the Triglav National Park. This park is situated in the Julian Alps and we will be driving up and over the Vrsic Pass (el. 5300 feet). The road across the pass was built for military purposes, to supply the Isonzo front of World War I. Opened in late 1915, it is currently known as Russian Road, renamed in July 2006 to honor the Russian prisoners of war that were forced to build it and many of whom died. In their memory the prisoners built next to the road a wooden Russian Church. Following lunch at the top of Vrsic Pass we will continue down on the other side of the mountains via the Soca River Valley. This circular drive features some spectacular mountain scenery, as well as some offbeat WWI sights.

We may arrive later in the afternoon or early evening. The rest of the day is at your leisure.
Overnight in Bled.
(B)

DAY 5:
Following breakfast we will continue to Postojnska Jama (Cave) – one of the world’s most impressive underground caves. Slovenia boasts several fine cave systems, but Postojna is arguably the best.

After lunch, we will continue to Lipica – home of the noble white horses Lipizzaners situated in wonderful natural park like setting. We will enjoy touring this famous horse farm and stables. The stables were founded by the son of Keiser Ferdinand I. Charles in 1580. The horses were and still are used for leading the royal chariots.

We will continue to the ancient coastal town of Piran located at the Adriatic Sea.
Overnight in Piran.
(B)

DAY 6:
This day will be very relaxing and enjoyable by spending all day on our own to explore the ancient seaside town of Piran. Slovenia owns only 29 miles of Adriatic coastline and it includes the Back Door gem of the Slovenian Adriatic, Piran. It’s main square spills into its harbor. Enjoy a gelato or a "kava" on its sleek marbled square, surrounded by neoclassical buildings and watched over by a bell tower. Wander its piers and take a lot of pictures at sunset. Enjoy a spectacular seafood and pasta feast in a very domestic atmosphere.

There will be a fresh fish dinner on a private fishing boat coasting the Golfo di Trieste.
Overnight in Piran.
(B-D)

DAY 7:
In the morning, we will be depart Piran and continue to Croatia. Our destination of the day will be the town of Zadar (5 hours travel time). Zadar is the oldest continuously inhabited Croatian city. It is situated on the Adriatic Sea at the northwestern part of Ravni Kotari region. Zadar serves as the seat of Zadar County and the wider northern Dalmatian region. The city proper covers 9.7 sq miles with a population of 75,082 in 2011, making it the fifth-largest city in the nation.
Overnight in Zadar.
(B-D)

DAY 8:
Following breakfast, we will be head further South to Split (2 hour travel time). We will head directly to Split's harbor where we will board a boat ferry (2 hours boat ride). The ferry will take us to the beautiful Mediterranean island of Hvar. Upon arrival and to readjust from the boat ride, we may enjoy a casual stroll or just have coffee, wine, or gelato in the small ancient town of Stari Grad (Old Town). It is one of the oldest towns in Europe (384 b.c.) and it used to be called Pharos. We will then continue on to the town of Hvar.

Since Hvar is situated in the middle of the main sea routes, history has left many traces in the villages in middle of astonished natural beauty. Hvar is an island of heather, sunshine and crickets, an island of lavender, sage, rosemary, and wine.

Upon settling in our hotel, there will be time on your own to explore the harbor, the old town, or just take a walk to the beach.
Overnight in Hvar.
(B)

DAY 9:
As per request from many previous tour participants, we will spend a full day at leisure in this magnificent and historical city. There are many things to do, so enjoy this day on your own.
Overnight in Hvar.
(B)

DAY 10:
After breakfast we will travel (2 hour travel time) across this spectacular island to catch a ferryboat at Drvenik that will take us back to the mainland (45 minute boat ride). Continue travel by car (2.5 hour travel time) south along the very picturesque Jadran Coastal Highway to Dubrovnik, called the “Pearl of the Adriatic” and situated on the Dalmatian Coast. Tour the old town of Dubrovnik by night.
Overnight in Dubrovnik.
(B-D)

DAY 11:
Today we discover the city whose ancient walls have withstood both time and tide for a hundred years, and more recently, the attack during the Serbian invasion of the early 1990s. The city is now repaired, renewed, and ready to show off its many charms. We begin with a guided walking tour through Old Town that will take us to some of the most important sights such as Luza Square, Sponza Palace, Rector’s Palace, the old harbor, the stately Baroque Cathedral, and not to forget the walk along the city’s walls.
Overnight in Dubrovnik.
(B)

DAY 12:
This day is reserved for our leisure in Dubrovnik.
Overnight in Dubrovnik.
(B)

DAY 13:
Leaving Dubrovnik this morning we travel due northwest on the inland highway to Split (approx. 4 hour travel time). Split is the main city of the central Dalmatian Coast and home of Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the center of the city. Built by the Roman emperor Diocletian at the end of the 3rd century, the palace and the ruins, eventually formed the historic heart of picturesque Split. We will take a tour of the Diocletian Palace.
Overnight outside of Split.
(B-D)

DAY 14:
After breakfast, we will drive to the nearby city of Split. We will tour the Diocletian Palace accompanied by a guide followed by a few hours at our leisure. Next, we will head deep into the mountains of Croatia from sea level to nearly 5,000 ft above sea level to the Plitivice National Park (approx. 4 hours travel time). This park is the first and most natural park in the county. Depending on our arrival time, we may be able to visit a small portion of the park on our own.
Overnight in Plitvice Lakes.
(B-D)

DAY 15:
Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of Europe’s most spectacular natural wonders. Imagine Niagara Falls diced and sprinkled over a heavily forested Grand Canyon. Plitvice Lakes National Park is a dramatic string of 16 turquoise-colored lakes connected by a series of waterfalls, cascades, caves, and miles of pleasant plank walks. Once known as Devils Garden, this intriguing natural landscape of karst formations and abundant wildlife is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We will have the opportunity to explore the park all day long on our own.
Overnight in Plitvice Lakes.
(B)

DAY 16:
This morning we will travel from Plitvice to Ljubljana (approx. 4 hour travel time).

Afternoon on our own in Ljubljana. Ljubljana, a lazy old town clustered around a castle-topped mountain is often compared to Salzburg. While there are few must-see sights, the town’s biggest attraction is its ambience. The Ljubljana River, lined with cafes, restaurants, and buzzing outdoor markets, divides the city in half. Most sights are either along or just a short walk from the river, which is crossed by several interesting bridges.
Overnight in Ljubljana.
(B)

DAY 17:
After breakfast, we will meet our guide and spend several hours enjoying this cosmopolitan and picturesque city. Then the afternoon is at leisure for independent exploration.

Tonight we celebrate our adventure with a farewell dinner.
Overnight in Ljublijana.
(B-D)

DAY 18:
This morning we transfer to the airport in Ljubljana/Brnik Airport (LJU) for our return flights to the US.
(B)

Printable pdf of this Itinerary

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Tour Specifications and Pricing

Upon signing up for this tour, you will receive a booklet with important and helpful information, including detailed itinerary, money exchange, what to pack, electrical appliances, cell phones, hotel addresses and phone numbers, medical concerns, suggested readings, information on visiting places, and much more.

This trip has been custom-designed specifically for a small group of just up to 12 guests to appreciate unique natural landscapes, cultural and historical sites, culinary treats, behind the scene treasures, and authentic encounters. You will never feel like you are a part of a herd. We like to travel light – smaller group causes little environmental and cultural disturbance, which allows you to get closer to the world you are exploring.

We will be traveling in a private air-conditioned mid-size bus. We realize that hotels are not the main reason for you to select a tour. But great accommodation can improve the tour experience. We are selecting hotels according to our previous satisfied experience or hotels that we believe are the best for our trip. European hotels are usually smaller than those in the U.S.A. Also, air conditioning isn't as common as at home and in some country setting hotels elevators may not be available (we'll help you with your luggage). Our goal is to select accommodations that will offer you a nice and clean place, with the usual amenities or better, good service and good location. In larger cities, our hotels are usually centrally located so you can get around easily. In rural areas we will offer unique lodging that will provide local ambiance larger groups never experience.

YOUR PRICE INCLUDES:

Note: Round trip air-fare from your point of departure is not included.

All land arrangements as described above:

• Double room occupancy:	$4,975 per person
• Single room occupancy:	$5,475

Deposit of $700.00 per guest is due with sign up to secure your spot. It is fully refundable if Tour Central Europe cancels the tour.

Limited space reservation up to 12 people - first come, first served basis.

We reserve the right to cancel the tour due to insufficient number of travelers.

We would like to suggest arranging your own round-trip air travel from your hometown to Prague and from Prague back home. Please contact us first prior to making your reservation. If you are not able to make your own travel plans we will assist you.

To get the full benefit of this trip adequate degree of physical conditioning is recommended due to a good amount of walking and some hiking on our tour. If you need assistance in getting around, our tour may not be appropriate for you. Please contact us prior to deciding on this tour.

We are strongly recommending purchasing a travel insurance to protect yourself and your investment in case you must cancel or interrupt this tour. To provide you with the most effective coverage, the policy exclusion for "Pre-Existing Conditions" will be waived if you purchase a plan within 14 days of making your initial deposit payment for your trip. Please let us help you with securing your travel insurance.

Please consult the “Reservations” and “Terms & Conditions/Travel Insurance" sections for more pertinent information concerning this tour.

To secure the best possible air-fare and our reserved hotels please register early! Before securing your flight arrangements, please check with us on the number of registered travelers.

(If there is still space available, late registration is possible).

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Photo Gallery

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RESERVATION FORM FOR THE SLOVENIA, CROTIA AND ADRIATIC SEA TOUR

Your reservation for this tour becomes valid after we receive your deposit along with this sign up form. Once you submit this information, you will immediately receive a confirmation email from us. Of course, you can also contact us at anytime with the details provided for you at the bottom of this form.

Electronic Form (all fields are required except additional traveler name):

First Name (as on passport):
Last Name (as on passport):
You need a valid passport (there is no visa needed to the visiting country). Please verify that your passport is valid at least 3 months over the date of the tour beginning, and the name used is the same as the name on your passport!
Address:
City:
State:
Zip:
Email:
Primary Telephone Number:
Cell Number (optional):
Birthday (optional):
Tour Reservation Costs:
Additional Traveler?	Yes: No:
Additional Travelers Name (as on passport):
Total Tour Price:
Deposit ($700 per person required):
The balance on your Tour will be due 95 days prior to Tour start date.

Feel free to contact Frank Fristensky directly if you have any further questions!
email: info@tourcentraleurope.com
WhatsApp phone #: +420 773 771 469

By clicking "Submit" you are agreeing to the "Terms and Conditions" for your Tour.

Payment Options

Make a check payable to Tour Central Europe (or Frank Fristensky if you prefer) with a note on the memo line for bank account # 4906015823.

Mail it to:
Vectra Bank Colorado
1201 Escalante Drive
Durango CO 81301

Alternatively, you may pay for your deposit by credit card on the following page. We use PayPal credit card services as our credit card vendor. PayPal accepts all major credit cards.