Eastern Capitals & Dalmatian Riviera - Classic Group
Eastern Capitals & Dalmatian Riviera - Classic Group
Eastern Capitals & Dalmatian Riviera - Classic Group
14 Days Starting in Vienna, Austria and ending in Dubrovnik, Croatia
Visiting: Vienna, Ljubljana, Zagreb, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Split, Sarajevo, Dubrovnik
Tour operator:
Tour code:
E961M26
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Eastern Europe with the "Eastern Capitals & Dalmatian Riviera - Classic Group" tour. This immersive experience takes you through the enchanting landscapes and rich histories of Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Begin your adventure in Vienna, exploring the grandeur of Schonbrunn Palace and the vibrant Ring Road. Traverse the charming streets of Maribor and Ljubljana, savoring Slovenian delicacies. Discover the twin towns of Zagreb, the natural wonders of Plitvice Lakes, and the ancient allure of Split. In Bosnia, explore Mostar's iconic Stari Most and Sarajevo's poignant history. Conclude your journey in Dubrovnik, the Pearl of the Adriatic, with its stunning medieval architecture. Along the way, enjoy authentic dining experiences, engage with local communities, and contribute to sustainable tourism initiatives. This tour promises a blend of cultural exploration, historical insights, and breathtaking scenery, creating unforgettable memories.
Choice Highlights
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Plitvice Lakes National Park: Join a Local Expert to explore Plitvice National Park. Learn about the studies taking place to monitor and protect the natural habitat, and education initiatives on the marine environment and best practices for a low-impact experience. The site participates in habitat restoration and is constantly working to protect the parks natural ecosystems and animal population. The staff educate their visitors about local traditions and share their personal story of the village with great passion from personal knowledge and experience. This experience advances UN Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water, UN Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life On Land. Alternatively, meet the industrious women of the Tara Community Center.
- Plitvice Lakes National Park: Through its income the Tara Center has built a small community Center that is used by the Tara Citizens’ Association, a collective of mostly older women, many of whom were refugees. There the women produce handicrafts which have giving them a much-needed financial and psychological boost. The staff educate their visitors about local traditions and share their personal story of the village with great passion from personal knowledge and experience. The Tara Center advances UN Sustainable Development Goal 5: Gender Equality. Alternatively, join a Local Expert to explore Plitvice National Park.
Top Rated Highlights
- Vienna: A guided exploration of Schonbrunn Palace will have all your senses tingling. Stand beneath frescoed ceilings, crystal chandeliers and gilded Rococo frames where Mozart performed as a child prodigy.
- Vienna: During your orientation led by your Travel Director, travel along the Ring Road to see the Hofburg Imperial Residence, Opera House, Parliament Building and Karlskirche.
- Maribor: Led by your Travel Director, explore this charming city, the second largest in Slovenia. Take a moment to appreciate the blend of old and new architecture.
- Ljubljana: Spend time with your Local Expert in the glorious Central Market and learn about some of the Slovenian delicacies on display and relish in a tasting.
- Ljubljana: Explore this elegant capital with your Local Expert, to see the castle City Hall, Cathedral of St Nicholas and Triple Bridge.
- Zagreb: Your Local Expert guides you this two-tiered capital. Explore Donji Grad, the Lower Town, and see the Mimara Art Museum in Roosevelt Square, Ban Josip Jelacic Square and the cathedral.
- Zagreb: Ride the funicular to Gornji Grad, the medieval Upper Town, to view the former Presidential Palace, Stone Gate, St. Mark's Church and the Lotršcak Tower.
- Trogir: See the cathedral and Renaissance Cipiko Palace during an orientation with your Travel Director.
- Split: Join a Local Expert and discover Diocletian’s Palace as you walk through its well-preserved Cellars. See the Temple of Jupiter, St Duje’s Bell Tower and the Golden Gate. Continue through the labyrinthine streets and arcaded squares of the Old Town.
- Split: Explore above and below the Roman Emperor Diocletian's palace. A Local Expert guides you through labyrinthine streets to see St. Duje's, the Temple of Jupiter, the Golden Gate and the Cellars.
- Mostar: Learn the history and symbolic significance of Stari Most and explore the old town with your Local Expert.
- Sarajevo: A Local Expert will show you the cobbled old town market where Sarajevo was founded by the Ottomans, known as Bašcaršija. You will also see the Latin Bridge where Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated.
- Sarajevo: Meet an expert of the Bosnian War for a visit to Sarajevo's Tunnel of Hope and hear a first-hand account of when the city was under siege for 44 months.
- Dubrovnik: Explore the Pearl of the Adriatic with your Local Expert. Walk the stone-paved streets of the Old Town to see Onofrio's Fountain, Rector's Palace and the medieval city walls. Admire the Franciscan and Dominican monasteries.
- Dubrovnik: As the sun descends and should the weather be favourable, enjoy a relaxing cruise around the fabled bay of Dubrovnik.
Make Travel Matter
Plitvice Lakes National Park: Join a Local Expert to explore Plitvice National Park. Learn about the studies taking place to monitor and protect the natural habitat, and education initiatives on the marine environment and best practices for a low-impact experience. The site participates in habitat restoration and is constantly working to protect the parks natural ecosystems and animal population. The staff educate their visitors about local traditions and share their personal story of the village with great passion from personal knowledge and experience. This experience advances UN Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water, UN Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life On Land. Alternatively, meet the industrious women of the Tara Community Center.
Plitvice Lakes National Park: Through its income the Tara Center has built a small community Center that is used by the Tara Citizens’ Association, a collective of mostly older women, many of whom were refugees. There the women produce handicrafts which have giving them a much-needed financial and psychological boost. The staff educate their visitors about local traditions and share their personal story of the village with great passion from personal knowledge and experience. The Tara Center advances UN Sustainable Development Goal 5: Gender Equality. Alternatively, join a Local Expert to explore Plitvice National Park.
Sarajevo: You are invited into a Sarajevan family home for a dinner and drinks. Savour the warm hospitality and authentic cuisine as you hear inspirational stories about their culture. This experience advances the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 10 & 11: Reduced Inequalities & Sustainable Cities and Communities.
Authentic Dining
Vienna: Join your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a drink, followed by a pleasant dinner with wine at a local restaurant.
Ljubljana: Your Travel Director offers you a varied selection of charming restaurants on your Dine-Around Evening - a culinary experience not to be missed.
Dubrovnik: Toast the culmination of your journey with a typical Dalmatian dinner.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Vienna
Location: Vienna
Accommodation Name: Hilton Vienna Park
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to beautiful Vienna. Enjoy your afternoon in the Austrian capital before meeting your Travel Director at a local restaurant for a pleasant evening of dinner.
Day 2: Exploring Stately Vienna
Location: Vienna
Accommodation Name: Hilton Vienna Park
Meals Included: Breakfast
Join a Local Expert for a private tour of Maria Theresa's Schönbrunn Palace and explore its formal gardens at your pace. Then get your camera ready for a drive around the famous Ring Road. Built along the lines of the old city walls, it showcases many of the capital's architectural highlights, including the Opera House, Hofburg Imperial Residence, the Austrian Parliament Building and Karlskirche. The rest of the day is at your leisure to continuing exploring. Perhaps join an optional evening to a Country Mansion to indulge in Classic Austrian dishes. And don't forget to experience a performance of the waltzes and classical music for which Vienna is world-renowned!
Day 3: Maribor And Ljubljana
Location: Ljubljana
Accommodation Name: Lev Ljubljana
Meals Included: Breakfast
In the morning, cross the border into Slovenia and journey to its second largest city, Maribor. After spending time in this charming location, head to the beloved city of Ljubljana.
Day 4: Exploring Lovable Ljubljana Relaxed Start
Location: Ljubljana
Accommodation Name: Lev Ljubljana
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Your Local Expert will reveal the Baroque elegance of the Slovenian capital. The medieval castle stands as an ancient guardian, the City Hall and Cathedral of St. Nicholas testify to its historical importance, while the Triple Bridge spans the river adorned with cafes and restaurants. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure. Perhaps join an Optional Experience to Postojna Caves? In the evening, choose from a hand-picked selection of local restaurants for your Dine-Around evening.
Day 5: Zagreb’S Twin Towns Relaxed Start
Location: Zagreb
Accommodation Name: Sheraton Zagreb
Meals Included: Breakfast
Spend the morning in Slovenia during which you can join an optional visit to stunning lake Bled, or relax with locals in a nearby café before journeying into Croatia, where on arrival in Zagreb, you meet your Local Expert for an exploration of this capital. Take a walk to see the art Pavillion, the academy of Sciences and Art and pass Zrinjevac Park. We then board the city's funicular to St. Mark's Church and the Lotrščak Tower, take a walk back down through the Stone gate and back to the Square.
Day 6: Zagreb At Leisure Relaxed Start
Location: Zagreb
Accommodation Name: Sheraton Zagreb
Meals Included: Breakfast
A free day to relax and enjoy a city that is bursting with culture. Perhaps spend time exploring one of the many museums or browsing the shops in Donji Grad? Maybe try the local cuisine in one of Zagreb's interesting restaurants or cafes or join an optional experience to the charming village of Kumrovec and meet a local to hear their perspective on the region's history?
Day 7: On To Plitvice National Park Relaxed Start
Location: Plitvice Lakes National Park
Accommodation Name: Lyra, Ličko Petrovo Selo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Journey south to visit one of Europe's great natural wonders. Explore Plitvice with Insight Choice. Choose between two MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences: Join a Local Expert to explore Plitvice National Park and learn how the site actively carries out research to monitor the natural habitat of species. Alternatively, meet one of the women of the Tara Community Centre, where handicrafts are produced, enabling employment and engagement in the community.
Day 8: Along The Dalmatian Coast
Location: Split
Accommodation Name: President Solin, Split
Meals Included: Breakfast
The green forests give way to pebble-dashed shores lapped by turquoise waters as you travel to Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage site, a historic town founded by the Greeks more than 2,300 years ago. Admire the cathedral and Renaissance Cipiko Palace, before continuing to the historic port of Split. The Roman Emperor Diocletian built his palace here, and today it forms the heart of the Old Town of Split. With your Local Expert, explore the 1,700 year-old palace cellars, and learn the story of the infamous emperor.Continue through the labyrinthine streets and arcaded squares to see St. Duje's - originally Diocletian's Mausoleum, and the Temple of Jupiter, which today is a baptistery, as well as the Golden Gate. Your exploration then continues underground as you are guided through the cellars. In the evening, don't miss the opportunity to dine like a true local at a traditional Konoba.
Day 9: Exploring Split Relaxed Start
Location: Split
Accommodation Name: President Solin, Split
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Always buzzing, lively Split has just the right balance of tradition and modernity. See Dalmatian life as it’s lived with a full day free to explore Split and its surroundings. Why not join an optional experience to discover the beautiful Dalmatian island, Hvar? Explore the historic Old Town with your Local Expert before having free time to relax by the seafront or admire the stunning views from the hilltop fortress.
Day 10: Mostar To Sarajevo
Location: Sarajevo
Accommodation Name: Europe, Sarajevo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
In the morning, cross the border into Bosnia & Herzegovina to Mostar. During your guided walking exploration with your Local Expert, see the famous Stari Most, or Old Bridge, reconstructed after being almost completely destroyed during the Croat–Bosniak War. The cobbled old town stretches on both sides of the bridge and is filled with shops selling Turkish-style souvenirs. Continue to Sarajevo, a town with a turbulent past - in 1914 it was the site of the assassination that sparked World War I and more recently, it endured the longest siege in modern military history. Follow the scenic route to Sarajevo for a unique and rewarding insight into the local way of life as you are invited into a Sarajevan family home for a dinner with drinks. Savour the warm hospitality and authentic cuisine as you hear inspirational stories about their culture and experience the local culture.
Day 11: Sarajevo, The City Of Culture
Location: Sarajevo
Accommodation Name: Europe, Sarajevo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Morning sightseeing with a Local Expert introduces you to the Sarajevo War Tunnels Museum, housing part of the secret tunnel that was the city's lifeline during the Bosnian war. You will also see the Latin Bridge where Austrian Crown Prince, Franz Ferdinand, was assassinated. Continue along the Milajacka river and see the historic Hapsburg centre of the city. In the afternoon, enjoy time at your leisure.
Day 12: On To Dubrovnik
Location: Dubrovnik
Accommodation Name: Royal Ariston, Dubrovnik
Meals Included: Breakfast
Cross the border into Croatia and journey to the walled town of Dubrovnik. On arrival, join your Local Expert to explore the stone-paved streets inside the 16th century bastions of the old town. See Onofrio's Fountain and the Rector's Palace and the Franciscan and Dominican monasteries.
Day 13: Optional Montenegro Experience Relaxed Start
Location: Dubrovnik
Accommodation Name: Royal Ariston, Dubrovnik
Meals Included: Breakfast
In the morning, why not visit Montenegro? This Optional Experience travels to Kotor, where your camera can capture one of the most beautiful parts of the bay as you learn the history of the area, before returning to Dubrovnik with a short cruise. As the sun begins to set, and should the weather permit, join your fellow travel companions as you sit back and enjoy a relaxing cruise around the fabled bay of Dubrovnik. Later, enjoy a Celebration Dinner of typical Dalmatian Coast cuisine, accompanied by local wines.
Day 14: Depart Dubrovnik
Location: Dubrovnik
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your journey comes to an end after breakfast.
What's Included
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Guided Tours
Enjoy guided tours with Local Experts in various cities including Vienna, Ljubljana, Zagreb, Split, Mostar, Sarajevo, and Dubrovnik.
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Authentic Dining Experiences
Experience authentic dining with dinners in Vienna, Ljubljana, Dubrovnik, and a family home dinner in Sarajevo.
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Hotel and Restaurant Tips
All hotel and restaurant tips are included, so you don't have to worry about how much to give or search for foreign currency.
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Luggage Handling
Your bags will be carried for you and promptly delivered to your hotel door.
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Complimentary Wi-Fi
Stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi on the coach and in hotels where available.
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Transfers
Transfers are available at scheduled times if your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates.
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Luxury Coach Travel
Travel in comfort on Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom.
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Hand Sanitizer
Hand sanitizer is freely available on board the coach for you to use throughout the day.
What's Not Included
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Optional Experiences
Optional experiences such as visits to Postojna Caves, Lake Bled, and the Dalmatian island of Hvar are not included.
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Flights
International and domestic flights are not included in the tour package.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style and comfort aboard Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom, ensuring a relaxing journey between destinations.
Accommodation
Stay in comfort at the Hilton Vienna Park, Lev Ljubljana, Sheraton Zagreb, Lyra in Licko Petrovo Selo, President Solin in Split, Europe in Sarajevo, and Royal Ariston in Dubrovnik, offering a blend of modern amenities and local charm throughout your journey.
Dining Summary
5 Dinner (D)13 Breakfast (B)1 Dinner with Wine (DW)
Additional Included Highlights
Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Well-being
Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are offered at Plitvice Lakes National Park?
At Plitvice Lakes National Park, you can choose between two unique experiences. You can join a Local Expert to explore the park and learn about the ongoing research and conservation efforts to protect the natural habitat and ecosystems. Alternatively, you can meet the women of the Tara Community Center, where they produce handicrafts, providing them with financial and psychological support.
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What can I expect during the visit to Sarajevo?
In Sarajevo, you will visit the Sarajevo War Tunnels Museum, which houses part of the secret tunnel that was the city's lifeline during the Bosnian war. You will also see the Latin Bridge, where Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated, and explore the historic Hapsburg center of the city. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a dinner with a local family, experiencing their warm hospitality and authentic cuisine.
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What activities are available in Split?
In Split, you will explore the Roman Emperor Diocletian's Palace with a Local Expert, visiting the palace cellars, St. Duje's, the Temple of Jupiter, and the Golden Gate. You will also have a full day free to explore Split and its surroundings, with an optional experience to discover the Dalmatian island of Hvar.
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What is included in the Dubrovnik experience?
In Dubrovnik, you will explore the stone-paved streets of the old town with a Local Expert, seeing Onofrio's Fountain, the Rector's Palace, and the Franciscan and Dominican monasteries. You will also have the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing cruise around the bay of Dubrovnik, weather permitting, and a Celebration Dinner featuring typical Dalmatian Coast cuisine.
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What dining experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a variety of dining experiences such as a dinner with wine in Vienna, a Dine-Around evening in Ljubljana, and a typical Dalmatian dinner in Dubrovnik. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a dinner with a local family in Sarajevo.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
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