12 Days Private Tour Itinerary of Slovenia, Italy, Croatia, Bosnia and Montenegro
Discover the Best of 5 European countries in 12 Days
Experience the magic of 5 Europe's beautiful countries on this unforgettable journey through Slovenia, Croatia, Italy, Bosnia and Montenegro. This is an idea of itinerary which can be done in 10-14 days. It is customizable and can be adapted to your needs and/or preferences.
The starting point can be Ljubljana, Zagreb, Venice or Vienna. Depending on the flights we are flexible to begin the tour in any of the neighbouring airports. The same with your flight back: if we do the tour from north to south and you can't find an appropriate flight from Dubrovnik, we can switch to Split or revise the itinerary accordingly.
Highlights:
Explore charming Ljubljana, Slovenia's picturesque capital
Marvel at the natural beauty of Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj
Experience the area of Julian alps in Triglav national park
See the austrian heritage in italian Trieste
Stroll through the romantic streets of coastal Piran and Rovinj
Witness the breathtaking waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park
Immerse yourself in history in Split's Diocletian's Palace
Walk the UNESCO bridge in Bosnian Mostar
Enjoy the sights and views of Kotor harbour and old town in Montenegro
End your journey in the stunning walled city of Dubrovnik
This tour offers:
• A perfect blend of nature, culture, and history
• Diverse landscapes from alpine lakes to Adriatic coastlines
• UNESCO World Heritage sites
• Charming old towns and vibrant city centers
• Opportunities for relaxation and adventure
Experience the best of Slovenia and Croatia in just 12 days. Add to this some of Italy, Bosnia and Montenegro. From Ljubljana to Dubrovnik, every stop on this journey promises unforgettable memories and insights into the rich tapestry of Central European and Balkan culture.
Day 1: Ljubljana, Slovenia
Begin your journey in Ljubljana, Slovenia's charming capital. After meeting at Ljubljana airport and transfer to your hotel we are going to explore Ljubljana with a private walking tour. After that you can continue exploring the town on your own or have some rest after the flight and before the big journey.
Options:
- Stroll through the picturesque old town, admiring the baroque and Art Nouveau architecture
- Visit Ljubljana Castle for panoramic views of the city
- Explore the vibrant Central Market and try local delicacies
- Take a boat ride along the Ljubljanica River
- Visit the National Gallery of Slovenia or the Museum of Modern Art
- Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants along the river
Day 2: Postojna cave and Predjama castle.
Two of the most iconic landmarks of Slovenia. Postojna cave: the "Queen of caves", most known and definately, one of the most beautiful caves in the world. With it's more than 200 years history of guided tours, underground railway and amazingly rich natural decorations, the cave offers truly "lifetime experience". And Predjama castle, literally embed into a rock, is another true symbol of Slovenia. Known for the location and legends, the castle is one of must-see destinations.
Day 3: Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj
Depart early for Lake Bled, a stunning alpine lake with a fairytale island. We are going to visit the main viewpoints around the lake and take pletna boat to visit iconic Bled island. Another option is to have a short hike through Vintgar gorge, one of the most known natural wonders of the region.
- Take a traditional pletna boat to Bled Island and visit the Church of the Assumption
- Hike up to Bled Castle for breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains
- Try the famous Bled cream cake at a local patisserie
In the afternoon, continue to nearby Lake Bohinj. We are going to do a drive along the shore of the lake and see the most beautiful viewpoints. Another option is a hike to 78-meters Savica waterfall.
- Enjoy a peaceful walk around the lake's shores
- Take the cable car up to Mount Vogel for panoramic views of the Julian Alps
- Visit the Church of St. John the Baptist, featuring 13th-century frescoes
After the lakes we are going to visit a town of Radovljica, "sweet capital" of Slovenia with it's perfectly preserved architecture of 16-17 centuries.
Return to Ljubljana.
Day 4: Triglav National park
One and only national park in Slovenia. We are going to see beautiful lake Jasna in town of Kranjska Gora. Drive up a winding and old Russian road, built during the times of WWI. See fascinating views of Julian alps from Vrsic mountain pass and other viewpoints. Visit the valley of stunning Soca river with its turquoise waters. Also we will see one of the worlds oldest, highest and (arguably) most known ski-jumping hills in Planica resort. With beautiful Zelenci natural preserve being one more stop on our route before coming back to Ljubljana.
Day 5. Trieste, Italy and Piran, Slovenia
Cross the border into Italy to visit Trieste, @"the most austrian city in Italy". One of the main highlights if the city is a beautiful estate of Miramare, with park and palace, built for Maximilian Habsburg in the middle of 19th century. After visiting the estate continue to the city of Trieste itself to explore Piazza Unità d'Italia, Europe's largest seaside square, see the kanal, which is one of the symbols of Trieste. Enjoy an Italian espresso (or local coffee "capo triestino") at the historic Caffè San Marco or Illy.
In the afternoon, drive to Slovenian coastal town of Piran, "the prettiest town in Slovenia". Some say that if Venice would be a village, it looks like Piran. Climb the city walls for panoramic views of the town. Wander the narrow medieval streets and admire the Venetian architecture of 15-17 centuries. Have a look at the interiors of St. George's Church. Relax in Tartini Square and try fresh seafood at a local restaurant. Overnight in Piran.
Day 6. Motovun, Porec and Rovinj: Istrian peninsula
Cross into Croatia and spend the day exploring Istria. First stop will be in Motovun, a hilltop fortified town with a mix of local istrian and venetian heritage. The area is known for the vineyards and truffles: all the local restaurants offer a wide variety of truffle specialities. Next we proceed to Porec for its old town with an absolutely unique Euphrasian Basilica from 6th century, a UNESCO site, known for perfectly preserved bysantian mosaics. From Porec we continue to Rovinj to explore a marvellous town, once located on an island. Stroll the old streets to see St. Euphemia's basilica and beautiful panoramic views of the area. Explore the charming old town with its cobblestone streets and colorful houses and enjoy sunset drinks at a cliff-side bar. Overnight in Rovinj
Day 7. From Istria to Plitvice Lakes National Park
Drive inland to the UNESCO-listed Plitvice Lakes National Park. We will start the day with a visit to Pula, another coastal town in Istria, known for Roman heritage, in particular with it's huge Pula arena. After a short tour of Pula we proceed to Hum, which is known as the smallest town in the World. After a visit to Hum we continue to the area of Plitvice lakes for an overnight stay.
Day 8. Plitvice lakes visit
We will start with a visit to Plitvice lakes early in the morning, to avoid crowds. The visit will last 3 to 4 hours and include the Lower lakes, with the Big waterfall and Kozjak lake, which we are going to cross with a ferry. We will also explore the upper lakes with more of the waterfalls and natural sights and take a panoramic train to reach the exit. After the visit we continue to Split for overnight stay.
Day 9. Split and Trogir
Walking tour of the old town of Split: Explore Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best-preserved Roman monuments. There is always a possibility to climb the Bell Tower of Saint Domnius for panoramic views. After a tour of Split itself we continue to nearby Trogir, a picturesque medieval town on a small island. It's one of UNESCO sites in the area due to ancient history and perfectly preserved parts of the old town. Overnight stay in Split.
Day 10. Bosnia: Blagaj and Mostar
We will start with a drive to Bosnia and after crossing the border head to a small village of Blagaj to see marvelous rocks with the source of Buna river and dervish tekija (muslim monastery) from early 16th century. After that we continue to Mostar, toi walk the old town and to see the iconic bridge, the symbol of Mostar and UNESCO site, which actually gave its name to the town (most-bridge). Overnight stay in Mostar.
Day 11. Montenegro and Kotor
After some drive southwards to the border of Montenegro, we will cross it and head to Kotor harbour and the town of Kotor. This small and unique town is know for picturesque views and variative heritage of different cultures. After a stroll of the old town and watching the area from the viewpoints above the area, we have some free time to enjoy the town. Overnight stay in Kotor.
Day 12. Dubrovnik
After crossing the border with Croatia we continue to the city of Dubrovnik. We will have a city tour to get to know the heritage of the town better: explore the limestone-paved Stradun, the main street of the old town, visit the Rector's Palace and the Franciscan Monastery, stroll the ancient white streets of the city, marvel enormous walls preserved in the perfect condition, visit the mighty fortresses, which once used to protect the city. Overnight stay in Dubrovnik.
Day 13. Airport transfer
Remember to check visa requirements, as you'll be crossing borders between Slovenia, Italy, and Croatia. All the countries are parts of the EU, but due to the recent issues with illegal migration, border checks may still be in place. the requirements for Bosnia and Montenegro may also differ.
Also, be prepared for varying weather conditions, especially if you're visiting outside the peak summer season. The coast tends to be milder, while inland areas like Ljubljana and Plitvice can be cooler, especially in spring and autumn.
This tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the region's diverse attractions, from alpine lakes to coastal towns and historic cities. It can be adjusted based on your interests and travel style.
Approximate duration (per day) | 7-9 hours |
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Total distance (from Ljubljana) | 1600 km |
Price (per group up to 7 pax) | Euro 5200-5500 |
The final duration and price depend on actual itinerary and season. Private tours are customizable and flexible.
The price is per vehicle and includes: English-speaking guide/driver, comfortable 7-seater minivan, parking fees, tolls, water.
The price doesn't include accommodation, meals, admission fees, flights. But I would be happy to assist you with booking and planning.