Journey Through Slovenia, Croatia & Montenegro

(16 Days – Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Ljubljana, Lake Bled & the Julian Alps, Zagreb & Plitvice Lakes National Park, Split & Hvar, Dubrovnik, Montenegro

This comprehensive private tour is the ultimate journey through Slovenia, Croatia and Montenegro.

Begin in Ljubljana, the charming capital of Slovenia. During private touring, explore the Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture in the historic center; enjoy a boat ride on the Ljubljanica River, which flows through the city; visit Ljubljana Castle for panoramic views over the capital from a forested hilltop; tour the National Gallery of Slovenia; browse local markets and shops; and enjoy leisure time to relax at local cafes and restaurants.

One day, enjoy a private excursion to the beautiful Julian Alps. At iconic Lake Bled, ride in a private pletna (flat-bottomed wooden boat) to a tiny island with a picturesque church and bell tower. Also see Bled Castle, which perches atop rocky cliffs overlooking the water. Continue to Lake Bohinj, a picture-perfect mountain lake surrounded by the rugged peaks of Triglav National Park. Perhaps opt for a scenic walk on a lakeside trail, or ride a cable car for incredible bird's-eye views over the lake and mountains.

Another day, enjoy a private excursion in the surrounding region. See the incredible stalactites and stalagmites inside Postojna Cave, and visit Predjama Castle, a medieval fortress built into high stone cliffs. Also enjoy wine tasting of Slovenian varietals at top wineries in the Vipava Valley. Alternatively, explore the dramatic karst chambers inside Skocjan Cave, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit Lipica Stud Farm, where Lipizzaner horses have been bred for centuries.

Next, transfer to Zagreb, the elegant capital of Croatia. With your private guide, explore the cobblestone streets, small squares, markets, churches and Baroque buildings of the Upper Town, as well as the Secessionist (Art Nouveau) architecture and leafy parks of the Lower Town. During leisure time, browse local shops, sit at local cafes and stroll through leafy city parks. Also enjoy a private excursion to the rural Zagorje region to visit Trakoscan Castle, dine on regional specialties at a local tavern, and sample local wines.

En route to Split, visit Plitvice Lakes National Park, a beautiful region of turquoise lakes and cascading waterfalls among forested hills that's been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In the ancient city of Split, enjoy private touring of Diocletian's Palace, one of the most impressive Roman ruins in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With your private guide, walk through this living archaeological site, and see highlights such as the Peristyle, the Cathedral of Saint Domnius and the bell tower. Upon request, Artisans of Leisure can also arrange an excursion to nearby Trogir, a UNESCO-listed island town that preserves atmospheric Romanesque and Renaissance architecture, including the beautiful Cathedral of Saint Lawrence.

One day, enjoy a private boat cruise to Hvar, one of the most beautiful and sunniest islands in the Adriatic Sea. During private touring, explore Hvar Town, a picturesque collection of stone buildings around a natural harbor with crystal clear water, including highlights such as the Arsenal and St. Stephen's Cathedral. Perhaps also learn about local lace-making traditions or climb to a hilltop fortress for panoramic views over the town and waterfront. Also cruise among the Pakleni Islands, an attractive archipelago of rocky shores and fragrant pine forests.

En route to Dubrovnik, tour the mountainous peninsula of Peljesac. Enjoy private wine tastings at local wineries, and meet a local oyster farmer and sample some fresh seafood. Also see the ancient salt pans and impressive city walls in the seaside village of Ston.

Continue to Dubrovnik, a beautiful historic city overlooking the Adriatic Sea. With your expert private guide, explore the highlights of the Old City of Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with medieval city walls, white limestone streets, and well-preserved Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Walk atop the ramparts, visit historic palaces and monasteries, and explore the most interesting neighborhoods and backstreets. Also browse for unique crafts, olive oil and other Croatian specialties at local shops. One afternoon, enjoy a private excursion into the countryside to see village life amid vineyards and olive groves. Upon request, Artisans of Leisure can arrange a private cooking class in the home of a local family. Additional activities can also be arranged, such as hiking on Lokrum Island, sea kayaking along the coast, a private boat excursion to the Elaphiti Islands or an excursion to Mostar (Bosnia-Herzegovina).

Next, transfer to Montenegro, and enjoy a private tour along the shore of the fjord-like Bay of Kotor, where steep mountains plunge into the sea. Visit Perast, a waterfront town of Renaissance palaces, and take a boat excursion to the island church of Our Lady of the Rocks. Also tour the historic center of Kotor, a picturesque walled port town and UNESCO World Heritage Site of hidden squares, charming cafes and buildings dating to the 15th century. One day, enjoy a full-day excursion to beautiful Lake Skadar National Park, including a private boat cruise among the water lilies on the lake and wine tasting at a local winery. Also enjoy ample time for spa treatments and relaxing at your resort.

This tour can be further customized to include additional time in Croatia or neighboring countries such as Italy, Slovenia and Montenegro.