Adriatic Discovery: Northern Italy, Slovenia and Croatia 2023
Adriatic Discovery: Northern Italy, Slovenia and Croatia 2023
Adriatic Discovery: Northern Italy, Slovenia and Croatia 2023
10 Days Starting in Venice and ending in Split
Visiting: Venice, Bassano del Grappa, Rovereto, Belluno, Lake Bled, Ljubljana, Postojna Cave, Rovinj, Opatija, Rastoke, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Smiljan, Zadar, Split
Tour operator:
Tour code:
BSLMS3
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
7 - 18
Physical rating:
Low
Age range:
18-90
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Private Available:
Request A Private Tour
From:
$3799
$3609 (USD)
The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$190
Tour Overview
Join us as we travel the back roads through plunging gorges and soaring mountains; discovering clifftop fortresses and Riviera-style villages; tasting delicious local wines and savouring countless regional specialities along the way. This journey through Northern Italy, Slovenia and Croatia captures the beautiful diversity of these three mesmerising countries and is sure to be one to remember.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Venice (Italy)
Location: Venice
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Ca’ dei Conti (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to Venice – the magnificent floating city boasting unparalleled elegance, grandeur and romance. Meet your travel companions and Tour Leader at the hotel, before settling into a delicious welcome meal at a local restaurant. Saluti!
Day 2 : Venice – Bassano Del Grappa
Location: Venice, Bassano del Grappa
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Belvedere (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, we’ll board the mini-coach and set a course for our first stop – Maser, where a wine tasting session at the historic Villa di Maser winery awaits us. Grapes from this ancient winery are grown in 33 hectares of carefully selected, eco-friendly vineyards – and our palettes are sure to appreciate the care and attention placed in each bottle. Then: onwards to Bassano del Grappa, a historic town that’s famous for its 13th century Ponte Vecchio. After getting better acquainted on an orientation tour, we’ll enjoy some free time for lunch. Later, we’ll pay a visit to the Poli Grappa Museum – where we’ll learn about the history of the local tipple and enjoy a tasting, of course! This evening will be ours to explore Bassano Del Grappa at our own pace or put our feet up back at the hotel.
Day 3 : Bassano Del Grappa – Rovereto – Bassano Del Grappa
Location: Bassano del Grappa, Rovereto, Bassano del Grappa
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Belvedere (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today we’ll delve into Rovereto’s fascinating history on a locally guided walking tour. As we go, we’ll have the opportunity to visit the imposing Rovereto Castle, Italian Historical War Museum and the Bell of the Fallen – which commemorates those who fell in the Great War in Trentino. Cast with the bronze of all nations who participated in World War I, it’s 100 tolls at dusk are a testimony to world peace. Following our tour, we’ll enjoy a sumptuous included lunch at a local restaurant – before returning to Bassano Del Grappa for an evening spent at our leisure.
Day 4 : Bassano Del Grappa – Belluno – Lake Bled (Slovenia)
Location: Bassano del Grappa, Belluno, Lake Bled
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Triglav (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Before we bid farewell to Italy, we’ll make one more stop in picturesque Belluno. A historic old town with breathtaking views and Renaissance-era buildings – we’ll enjoy an orientation tour with our Tour Leader before lunching at our leisure. Then: we’ll cross the border into spectacular Slovenia. Enjoy the scenic back roads as we travel to the enchanting Lake Bled region – our home for the next two nights. This evening, we’ll be free to spend some time relaxing before tomorrow’s trip to the iconic lake.
Day 5 : Lake Bled
Location: Lake Bled
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Triglav (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
First on today’s agenda: we’ll enjoy a guided tour of mesmerising Bled Castle. One of the oldest castles in Slovenia, our guide will educate us on the fascinating history and let us in on a few secrets, before we settle down to an included lunch in the castle restaurant. This afternoon we’ll take to the water for a locally-crafted pletna boat ride to the small island in the centre of Lake Bled – where we’ll visit the Baroque Church of the Assumption. Upon returning to the mainland, we’ll savour an afternoon spent at our leisure or dining at our hand-picked accommodation’s restaurant.
Day 6 : Lake Bled – Ljubljana And Postojna Cave – Rovinj (Croatia)
Location: Lake Bled, Ljubljana, Postojna Cave, Rovinj
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: The Melegran (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning we’ll bid a fond farewell to Lake Bled and continue our journey to Slovenia’s capital: Ljubljana. Here, we’ll learn more about the city’s major sights on a locally guided walking tour and take the funicular up to the famous castle for incredible views over this enchanting city. Then: we’ll have the opportunity to visit the impressive Postojna Cave and take an unforgettable train ride through the mesmerising subterranean system. We’ll round up our day in the quaint seaside town of Rovinj – where the evening will be free for us to leisurely explore the narrow, cobbled streets in search of a local restaurant for dinner.
Day 7 : Rovinj
Location: Rovinj
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: The Melegran (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today, we’ll have a full day to explore Rovinj at our own pace. Whilst you’re here, we recommend paying a visit to the Church of St Euphemia – the largest Baroque building in Istria with spectacular views over the city. Enjoy wandering through the winding cobbled streets and picturesque squares of Old Town, before stopping for a refreshing drink at a harbourside cafe. This evening, a unique culinary experience awaits at a local restaurant.
Day 8 : Rovinj – Opatija And Rastoke – Plitvice Lakes
Location: Rovinj, Opatija, Rastoke, Plitvice Lakes National Park
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Fenomen (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today’s first stop will be the chic coastal town of Opatija – where we’ll have some free time to wander at our own pace and enjoy coffee at a local cafe. Then: we’ll continue on to the charming village of Rastoke – which is known for its many beautiful waterfalls and 18th-century mills. After paying a visit to a local mill, we’ll arrive at our final destination: the stunning Plitvice Lakes region. This evening we’ll be free to relax at our hotel and enjoy the excellent restaurant at our leisure.
Day 9 : Plitvice Lakes – Smiljan – Zadar
Location: Plitvice Lakes National Park, Smiljan, Zadar
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Kolovare (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
A tour highlight is on the agenda this morning! After breakfast, we’ll visit one of Croatia’s most astounding natural sites: the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Plitvice Lakes National Park. Here, we'll explore the walking trails that hug the lakes – and watch as the water transforms from emerald green to azure blue. Once we’ve finished exploring, we’ll continue north to the village of Smiljan – the birthplace of famous inventor Nikola Tesla. Here, we’ll have the opportunity to visit the Tesla House Museum before moving on to the coastal city of Zadar. Tonight, we’ll look back on our incredible adventure and clink glasses over a delicious farewell dinner.
Day 10 : Zadar – Split
Location: Zadar, Split
Meals Included: Breakfast
The tour may be coming to an end, but we have a few historical treasures to uncover before we say our goodbyes. Our Tour Leader will show us around the ancient Roman and Venetian ruins within Old Town, as well as the grand 12th-century St Anastasia’s Cathedral – before we board the mini-coach one final time to reach our final destination. Upon arrival in Split, our tour will come to a close.
What's Included
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Accommodation
As detailed in the itinerary
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Fully Guided
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Entrance Fees
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Free Wi-Fi at Accommodation
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Meals
As detailed in the itinerary
What's Not Included
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Country Entry Visas
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Airport Transfers at Destination
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International Travel
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Drinks with Meals
Check out our Q&As
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What is the maximum group size?
18 is the maximum on any tour
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Is the tour coach air conditioned?
Yes the Coach is air-conditioned
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Are children permitted to take part in the tour?
From the Age of 13
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
Yes, All guides are English speaking
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What is the tipping policy?
At the discretion of the guest
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Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?
Yes, please request at time of booking
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Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?
Yes there is - 20kg and a max dimension of 158cm (W+D+L)
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Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?
A Tour Leader and separate driver will take you on your journey
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What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?
Hand Picked and Boutique
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Are all entrance fees included in the price?
All Entrance fees listed are included
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Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?
Please see your local governments for rulings on destination Visa's
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What currencies are required for this tour?
Euro
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Are flights included in this tour?
No they are not.
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Will passengers from another country be participating in the tour?
Guests from all over the world could be joining you
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Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?
Ample free time due to low drive days
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Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?
This will be provided on final documentation
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Are airport transfers included in this tour?
No they are not.
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Is there a supplement for solo travellers?
A Small supplement, but dedicated allocation on every tour
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
We have solo capacity, however no single share.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Upon final payments, we will distribute E-Documentation to all of our guests. Dont forget we also have our App to download as an added feature.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Like-minded travellers awaiting the opportunity to explore the less explored regions. Interests in food, wine, history, art as well as wartimes there will be a great mix of people to connect with on tour.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
We have our COVID Assurance Policy, Book now and relax knowing you are covered under our new COVID-19 Assurance Policy. At no additional cost to you, new bookings are now 100% refundable in the unfortunate event you are diagnosed with COVID-19 or unable to travel due to government-enforced lock downs prior to your scheduled departure date.
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What level of mobility do I need?
You need to be fit enough to get on and off the vehicle on a regular basis, and to walk both to attractions and around towns and villages. You also need to be able to walk up and down stairs in the hotels and use a shower over the bath. We frequently use traditional style hotels and the majority will not have lifts or ground floor rooms.
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Who goes on Back-Roads tours?
The majority of our guests come from Canada, the USA, the UK, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. All tour commentaries are in English. Our tours appeal to those looking for a more relaxing style of travel, and who enjoy culture, good food, meeting like-minded people and exploring destinations in depth.
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What is the minimum age for any Back-Roads Touring trip?
The minimum age on all of our trips is 18 years.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
All Hotels in line with protocols following the World Health Organisation meet and exceed requirements for all Touring with us.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Back-Roads Touring has been operating from the UK for over 30 years.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
Inline with our booking flexibility policy, you are able to make as many changes as required up to 60 days from departue - with 1 last included up until 30 days out.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
Generally no, but in extraordinary circumstances it can be looked at.
Reviews of this Operator
Want a private tour?
Please note, this tour is not available for booking in your country.
Dates & Availability
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Thursday - Saturday
May 02, 2024 - May 11, 2024Thursday - Saturday
May 16, 2024 - May 25, 2024Thursday - Saturday
Jun 27, 2024 - Jul 06, 2024Thursday - Saturday
Aug 29, 2024 - Sep 07, 2024Thursday - Saturday
Sep 12, 2024 - Sep 21, 2024Thursday - Saturday
Sep 26, 2024 - Oct 05, 2024Thursday - Saturday
Oct 24, 2024 - Nov 02, 2024Thursday - Saturday
Nov 07, 2024 - Nov 16, 2024Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
Back-Roads Touring allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 60 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Back-Roads Touring allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform back-roads touring, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Back-Roads Touring requires a minimum deposit of 150 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of back-roads touring charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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