Venice & Croatia Private Tour

Begin your exciting Central European vacation in one of the most unique and stunning cities in the world. The floating city of Venice is the capital of romance and boasts a plethora of famous landmark attractions and historic monuments. Transfer from the airport to your hotel and join our guided tour of the heart of Venice. Admire the beautiful ornate architecture and palaces, including the breathtaking Palazzo Ducale, the Piazza San Marco, and many other picturesque squares. Stroll across the Rialto Bridge (Ponte Rialto) and the romantic Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri) and imagine yourself in a faraway time.

Enjoy a free day exploring the beautiful water city in more depth. Take a seat in one of the cafes and indulge in a spot of people watching. Hop aboard a gondola and glide along the scenic grand canals. Alternatively, join our optional guided tour to nearby Murano Island. The island is known for its long history of exquisite glass making. The tour includes a visit to the Murano Museum of Glass, the Duomo di Murano Santi Maria e Donato Church and a local glass factory. Observe the crafts folk at work and learn about the art of hand-blowing glass.

Enjoy a relaxing morning at leisure before departing for the popular seaside town of Rovinj in Croatia, after lunch. The charming medieval fishing port town was originally built on an island and has since been connected to the mainland. Take a stroll through the postcard-pretty cobbled streets and admire the colourful facades of the local buildings. Visit the hilltop church of St Euphemia to view the lofty steeple that dominates the skyline, and the pebble beaches of Lone Bay. Tucked along the narrow passages and alleyways there are many interesting shops, cafes, bars and restaurants that are well worth exploring.

After breakfast, it’s time to go truffle hunting in the lush Motovun Forest. Enjoy a scenic drive through the idyllic countryside of the Istrian Peninsula. Learn about truffles, a valuable local specialty, before hunting them down with the help of truffle-sniffing dogs. Learn the art of preparing the gourmet treats and purchase some tasty souvenirs. The hilltop villages of Motovun, the location of a film-festival, and the artists’ haven of Grožnjan provide the afternoon’s adventure. There is always time to enjoy lunch or dinner at one of the welcoming family-owned restaurants that serve traditional cuisine made from local farm-sourced produce.

Depart early from Rovinj for a full-day excursion to one of Croatia’s best-known natural gems and popular tourist attractions. Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and natural beauty spot. Admire the diversity of flora and fauna that inhabits the lush landscape of the forest reserve. Enjoy scenic views of breathtaking waterfall cascades from the wooden bridges and pathways and view the magnificent Veiiki Slap. Explore the 16 inter-connected, terraced crystal-clear lakes on a memorable electric boat ride. Or hop aboard the train to venture further into the park. Exceptional photo opportunities are available wherever you look.

–

We head south again, to Split, Croatia’s second biggest city, arriving shortly before lunch. Join our private guided tour of the Old Town and the beautiful UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace. Our expert guide has many stories and legends to share about the city’s rich history. Admire the significant historic landmarks and stunning architecture. Enjoy free time in the evening to take in the sea air along the picturesque Riva promenade, or hike to the top of Marjan Hill. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at one of the local restaurants, surrounded by Roman and medieval architecture.

Today’s treat is a trip to the cosmopolitan island of Hvar. The island’s charming Old Town exudes a Mediterranean vibe and boasts an enviable waterfront location and sun-bleached white stone houses. As you get acquainted with the local sights and history of Hvar, save up your energy for a climb to the Fortica Fortress, for spectacular views of Hvar Bay and the Pakleni Islands. End the day shopping and dining in the narrow alleys where you will discover gastronomic delights and products made from organic lavender grown on the island. Alternatively, enjoy a relaxing day on the beautiful beach.

Dubrovnik is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful UNESCO World Heritage listed cities in the world. On the way to explore the treasures of the historic city, we stop for a visit to Mostar. The Bosnian city straddles the Neretva River and proudly shows off the iconic medieval arched Stari Most (Old Bridge). Visit the Koski Mehmed-paša Mosque and Kajtaz House, which once accommodated the harem of a 16th century Turkish judge! Explore Mostar’s vibrant and colourful markets, shops and restaurants, before continuing on to Dubrovnik. On arrival, enjoy a glimpse of the imposing walled city on an evening stroll.

After breakfast, join our private guided tour of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, which has a unique Game of Thrones flavour. Visit the real-life locations where the popular TV series was filmed, along with the city’s famous landmark monuments and attractions. Although Dubrovnik was heavily damaged during the 1990s Homeland War, it has been fully restored to its former glory, and boasts red-roofed buildings, ornate churches, and an impressive defensive wall. Walk along the marble-paved streets and admire the stunning medieval architecture. Ride the cable car up Srd Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views of the historic city and spectacular scenic coastline.

Enjoy your final day in Dubrovnik at your own pace. Explore the Old Town’s palaces, galleries and restaurants, or venture to Lokrum Island. The scenic nature reserve features the well-preserved remains of a 12th century Benedictine Monastery, and peacocks and wildlife residing in the grounds. The island’s pristine beaches are perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Alternatively, join our optional day trip to Kotor in Montenegro. The UNESCO-listed city of Kotor boasts over two miles of medieval walls that incorporate St Ivan’s Fortress. Visit the Church of Our Lady of the Rocks, situated on one of two islets in the bay.

After breakfast, it’s time to depart Dubrovnik via private transfer to the airport for your return flight home.