Welcome to Italy. On arrival in Mestre, settle into your hotel before meeting your Tour Leader and fellow travellers. The evening is yours to relax, perhaps with a stroll through the lively streets and a taste of Venetian cuisine. Overnight in Mestre at Hotel Antony Mestre or similar.

This morning, step into the magic of Venice, a city of canals, bridges, and timeless charm. On a guided walking tour, admire St. Mark’s Square, glide along the Grand Canal by Vaporetto, and discover hidden laneways where Renaissance façades meet local life. Enjoy lunch in a Venetian restaurant before journeying into Slovenia to reach serene Lake Bled, framed by the Julian Alps. Overnight in Bled at Hotel Park or similar. (B,L)

Awake to Alpine air and begin with a gentle boat ride across Lake Bled to its tiny island church. Continue to Bled Castle, perched high above the lake, with panoramic views stretching to Mount Triglav on a clear day. Later, travel to tranquil Lake Bohinj, Slovenia’s hidden jewel, where glassy waters reflect forested peaks. The afternoon is left free to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Overnight in Bled at Hotel Park or similar. (B)

Cross the border into Austria’s Carinthia region. In Klagenfurt, admire the Lindworm Fountain and the Old Square’s pastel facades before continuing to the shores of Lake Worth, beloved for its turquoise waters and mountain backdrop. A regional lunch completes the day before returning to Bled. Overnight in Bled at Hotel Park or similar. (B,L)

Journey to Ljubljana, Slovenia’s charming capital, for a guided tour of its riverside streets, baroque bridges, and the castle rising above the city. Then descend into the magical underground world of Postojna Cave, one of Europe’s largest and most spectacular karst formations. By late afternoon, cross into Croatia to arrive in Rovinj or Vrsar, where colourful coastal charm awaits. Dinner included this evening. Overnight in Rovinj/Vrsar at Hotel Eden or Resort Belvedere or similar. (B,D)

This morning, explore Rovinj, a labyrinth of cobbled streets crowned by the church of St. Euphemia. Continue to Pula to visit its extraordinary Roman amphitheatre, one of the best preserved in the world. Later, enjoy a truffle tasting and an olive oil experience with local producers, discovering the culinary treasures that define Istria. Return to your hotel for the evening. Overnight in Rovinj/Vrsar at Hotel Eden or Resort Belvedere or similar. (B,T,T)

Travel along the scenic coastline to Opatija, a resort steeped in Habsburg elegance. Stroll the seaside promenade or relax in Angiolina Park before continuing into the Gorski Kotar mountains. In the village of Fužine, enjoy lunch in a traditional tavern beside Lake Bajer, then journey onward to the Plitvice Lakes region. Dinner included this evening.
Overnight in Plitvice at Hotel Palcich or similar. (B,L,D)

A day of natural wonder unfolds in Plitvice Lakes National Park. Wander through forests and along wooden walkways where 16 lakes cascade into each other in a turquoise spectacle. A short boat ride across Lake Kozjak completes the visit before travelling south to Split. On arrival, enjoy a guided evening stroll through Diocletian’s Palace and the lively Old Town. Overnight in Split at Hotel Marvie or similar. (B)

After breakfast, your tour concludes with a transfer to Split Airport. Alternatively, extend your holiday with an Adriatic cruise or our Dubrovnik Escape for the perfect finale. (B)