A Perfect 2 Week Itinerary in Croatia and Slovenia for Active Travelers

14 Day Tour of Dubrovnik, Split, Plitvice Lakes, Ljubljana and Zagreb

Overview
Trip Map
Itinerary
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14 Days 13 Nights

Best Time: Apr-Oct

Outdoor Activities

Beach Lovers

Discover the enchanting beauty and history of Croatia & Slovenia in a journey that combines breathtaking Balkan landscapes, Adriatic coastlines, and cultural treasures. Wander the ancient walls of Dubrovnik where Game of Thrones was filmed, uncover architectural marvels in Split's Diocletian's Palace, and enjoy the tranquility of Lakes Bohinj & Bled. Explore the medieval charm of Hvar Town, and be captivated by the cascading waterfalls in Krka and Plitvice National Parks. This carefully curated itinerary includes seven private guided tours, including a comprehensive Slovenian excursion, Ljubljana cycling tour, and detailed travel guidance.

Soak in stunning views of Dubrovnik from the historic city walls and Mount Srd
Swim in crystal clear waters and wander through olive groves on historic Hvar Island
Experience the mystery and beauty of Slovenia's caves, a subterranean world of wonders
Delight in the tranquility of Lake Bohinj, nestled in Slovenia's Triglav National Park
Climb Marjan Hill in Split for breathtaking panoramas of the Adriatic coast
Hike alongside the stunning waterfalls of Plitvice's Lower and Upper Lakes
Visit three castles in Slovenia, Ljubljana Castle, Predjama Castle, and Bled Castle

Soak in stunning views of Dubrovnik from the historic city walls and Mount Srd
Swim in crystal clear waters and wander through olive groves on historic Hvar Island
Experience the mystery and beauty of Slovenia's caves, a subterranean world of wonders
Delight in the tranquility of Lake Bohinj, nestled in Slovenia's Triglav National Park
Climb Marjan Hill in Split for breathtaking panoramas of the Adriatic coast
Hike alongside the stunning waterfalls of Plitvice's Lower and Upper Lakes
Visit three castles in Slovenia, Ljubljana Castle, Predjama Castle, and Bled Castle

Old City Walls

Historic Landmarks

Mount Srd

Natural Beauty

Diocletian’s Palace

Castles & Chateaux

Plitvice Lakes

Natural Beauty

Triple Bridge

Architecture

Old Town

Architecture

Must see sights

Old City Walls

Historic Landmarks

Mount Srd

Natural Beauty

Diocletian’s Palace

Castles & Chateaux

Plitvice Lakes

Natural Beauty

Triple Bridge

Architecture

Old Town

Architecture

Starting from

$3495

per person

4.8 (365 reviews)

Not included

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Trip Map & Itinerary

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Day-By-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive Dubrovnik

Day 1

Arrive Dubrovnik

To Be Determined

Arrival in Dubrovnik Airport and Transfer by Taxi or Bus

Dubrovnik has one main airport, Dubrovnik Airport, also referred to as Čilipi Airport. Taxis are available directly at the terminal exit, or you can arrange a private transfer for added convenience. The total cost of the trip should be approximately 45 EUR / 50 USD. There is a large yellow sign indicating taxi rates right beside the taxi stand. UberX or a local bus service is also available in Dubrovnik.

Day 1

Arrive Dubrovnik

To Be Determined:

Transfer from Airport

Mid-Day/Afternoon:

Mount Srd

Afternoon/Late Afternoon:

Old City Walls

Day 1

Arrive Dubrovnik

Day 1

Arrive Dubrovnik

To Be Determined

Arrival in Dubrovnik Airport and Transfer by Taxi or Bus

Mid-Day/Afternoon

Excursion to the Top of Mount Srd

Mount Srd, towering above the ancient city of Dubrovnik, undoubtedly offers the best panoramic views of the old town and the surrounding coastline. You can ascend the 412m (1352ft) peak via an ultra-modern cable car near the old city walls, or get the blood pumping by hiking up a steep zig-zag trail to the top. Apart from the astonishing scenery, there's also a museum dedicated to the 1991-95 Croatian War of Independence. The original cable car was built back in 1969 but had to be completely rebuilt after suffering extensive damage during the conflict of the early 1990s. On a clear day, you can see up to 60 km (37 miles). It's for this reason the neighboring Imperial Fortress was built by the French on this spot back in the early 19th century. The cable car runs as soon as there are enough passengers, and the last departure from the lower station is thirty minutes before closing time, which can be as early as 4pm during the winter, and as late as midnight in the summer.

Afternoon/Late Afternoon

Walk Dubrovnik's Old City Walls

The mighty walls of Dubrovnik are considered to be among the greatest defensive fortifications of the Middle Ages. Impregnable throughout their history, the walls run for an incredible 2km (1.24mi), encircling the entire old city, and reaching a maximum height of 25m (82ft). They are reinforced by 17 towers, 5 bastions, and 3 fortresses. No wonder enemy sieges were ultimately unsuccessful, including the Serb siege during the Croatian War of Independence in the early 1990s when the ancient walls proved more effective at resisting modern weaponry than contemporary structures on the city's periphery. A dedicated walk along the entire length of the walls offers unsurpassed views of the city. The City Walls are paid entrance and are open all year round (but keep in mind that they close at 3:00 PM between November and March. The best time to do the walk in summer is early in the morning or as late in the afternoon as possible when the numbers of other people touring the walls are fewest. There are three entrances to the City Walls: at the start of the main thoroughfare called the Stradun, at St John's Fortress, and at St Lucas's Fortress.

Day 2

Dubrovnik

Day 2

Dubrovnik

Day 2

Dubrovnik

Day 2

Dubrovnik

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Guided Walking Tour of Dubrovnik's Old Town

Dubrovnik was able to accumulate vast fortunes as a safe trade route into the Balkan hinterland and thus create a remarkably beautiful city and gargantuan fortifications that remain astonishingly well preserved to today. On this two-hour private guided walking tour, you will experience the supreme delight of viewing the old town almost as it was centuries ago and learning about the history and culture of the city through the ages.

Mid-Day

Explore Dubrovnik's Famous Old Town

The intricately fortified city of Dubrovnik acquired fabulous wealth as the Republic of Ragusa, which pursued a policy of strict neutrality and was managed by a semi-democratic system of government. It prospered for several centuries until the Napoleonic Wars brought its independence to an end. The income it earned from facilitating Mediterranean trade with the Balkan hinterland was used not only to build its impregnable stone walls and fortresses, but also to construct sumptuous churches, monasteries, and palaces inside the city walls. These remain so well preserved, even despite the military conflict of the early 1990s, that you could be mistaken for thinking you'd been transported back in time while exploring the maze of alleyways and back streets. The first thing to know about Dubrovnik's Old Town is that it gets very, very crowded during the high tourist season, and so if possible, it's best to tour it as early as possible. The main problem is caused by cruise liners that disgorge hundreds of passengers at a time; there can be up to six gargantuan liners in town at any one time, placing huge pressure on the city's facilities and infrastructure and leading to bottle-necks of tourists.

Afternoon/Late Afternoon

Swimming at Dubrovnik Beaches

Dubrovnik is much more than just the Old Town and there are a number of attractive beaches in and around the city where you can enjoy a swim in near pristine waters or simply soak up the sun on a rented deck chair; there's never a cafe or ice-cream seller too far away. Croatia's beaches are usually quite rocky, but in Dubrovnik, they're often pebble beaches or a mixture of fine shingle and sand, although there's also a beach called Copacabana that has imported sand. Locals talk about their favorite bathing spots like the British discuss the weather; we make it easy to discover the place that's right for you so you don't have to ask. When you first arrive in Dubrovnik and you're touring the Old Town it's often not immediately apparent where the swimming beaches are. You'll see people swimming in the sea around the city walls, but usually they're sunning themselves and jumping into the water from rocky outcrops that can be difficult to access if you don't know where exactly to go. There are, however, a good dozen sandy or pebbly beaches in the greater Dubrovnik area, with two or three within an easy walking distance of the old town. Other good beaches can be reached without too much trouble by boarding a municipal bus from Pile Gate or other nearby stops according to where your hotel is located.

Day 3

Dubrovnik

Day 3

Dubrovnik

Day 3

Dubrovnik

Day 3

Dubrovnik

Early Morning to Afternoon

Island Excursion to Mljet National Park

The island of Mljet is wonderfully unspoiled and a perfect place to seek some sanctuary from the crowds on the mainland coast. The main attraction is Mljet National Park, an area of Arcadian beauty with untouched Mediterranean forests, swimmable blue-green saltwater lakes encircled by foot- and cycle paths, and an island within an island containing a beautiful 12th-century monastery church. The island is reached in two hours by a daily catamaran ferry, leaving at approximately 9am and returning at about 5pm. Be sure to doublecheck times, as there is only one ferry there and back. To be safe you can take a guided tour, which can be very helpful in not only dealing with the logistics but in making sure you catch the highlights of the island. Mljet is ideal for a day's hiking or cycling, interspersed with swim breaks, but if you take any forest path you'll need sturdy walking shoes as you might find yourself having to scramble over some sharp rocks.

Day 4

Dubrovnik to Split

Day 4

Dubrovnik to Split

Day 4

Dubrovnik to Split

Day 4

Dubrovnik to Split

Early Morning/Morning

Self-Guided Sea Kayaking in Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is the perfect place to try out some sea kayaking if you've never done it before; even experienced kayakers will enjoy this adventure. The water is warm, crystal clear and very smooth, and you get to see the old city walls of Dubrovnik from a different angle. Accompanied by English speaking instructors, you will set off to explore the caves and sights of Lokrum island, also called 'The Land of Love'.

Mid-Day/Afternoon

Excursion to Lokrum Island

Almost a stone's throw from Dubrovnik's walled city, the island of Lokrum is the perfect getaway spot if you're looking for some quiet walking, lounging in the sun or bathing in crystal clear waters from rocky beaches far from the clamor of the crowds and motorboats. There's also an exquisite little green lagoon on the island connected to the sea by a tunnel through the rocks that makes for an impossibly romantic swimming spot. Plus there's an atmospheric old Benedictine monastery with a good quality restaurant, a handful of cafes and ice-cream booths, and a botanical garden to which admission is normally included in the price of the ferry to the island. Getting there is easy - during the warm months there is a ferry that leaves Dubrovnik's Old Port every 30min beginning at 9 am and finishing at 7 pm. Once arrived its easy to explore since the island is criss-crossed by trails.

2:30 PM

Transfer to Ferry Terminal by Taxi

Your hotel will be happy to arrange a taxi pick-up for you and can give you an estimate of the price so you can avoid overpaying. Your itinerary will provide more information on ordering a taxi, and what to expect at the international ferry terminal, making the whole process simple and stress-free.

16:00 - 20:45

Sea Journey to Split by Catamaran

The modern and super-fast catamaran will take you northwards to Split up the beautiful Dalmatian Coast via a handful of offshore islands - usually Korčula, Hvar, and Brač. If you're traveling in the morning then you will likely travel on a Jadrolinija catamaran and the journey will take approximately six hours. If you travel in the late afternoon, then you will likely go on a catamaran with the company Kapetan Luka (Krilo), and this journey will take just over four hours. You can travel in comfort in the plush seats provided (the best seats on the double-decker Krilo boats are on the upper deck) or breath in the bracing sea air on the outdoor observation decks. Refreshments are also available for purchase onboard. At first, it may appear to you that the boat is only half full, but this will quickly change when you get to the islands on the way to Split. The trip is usually very smooth and most passengers will not need to worry about seasickness. In exceptional circumstances, if the weather is very rough, the sailing may be canceled. TIP 1: Get to the catamaran terminal extra early if you'd like to sit at a window seat, as these are the first to be occupied. Boarding early also means you get the best storage shelves for your luggage - late boarders have to leave their bags cluttering the entrance hallway or stow them at the very back of the cabin area. TIP2: Very often you'll find two catamarans parked on the concrete pier with both taking on passengers; they are both going to Split but by different routes. Check the name of your craft on your ticket or else ask the man inspecting the tickets which is your boat. If there's only one boat waiting then it's easy. Just make sure you show your paper ticket and not a photo that you may have taken of the document on your smartphone - they won't accept anything else. The luggage storage area is in the middle of the boat as soon as you board.

8:45 PM

Ferry Arrival and Transfer by Taxi or Walking

Before taking a taxi keep in mind that the Old Town is only about 800m (875yd) from the station. In fact, cars aren't allowed into the some pedestrian areas of the historic center, so if staying in the Old Town you may have to walk for part of the trip anyhow. Split's ferry terminal for catamarans is a simple, long concrete pier alongside the international ferry terminal, neither of which have a landmark building to make them stand out. There are no dedicated facilities for the catamarans, so you simply disembark and walk to the end of the pier to find your taxi. UberX is available in Split for those with the mobile app. Otherwise taxis are always parked across the road that runs along the waterfront where both the bus and train stations are also located. The fare to your hotel should be around 20-30 EUR depending on its location.

Day 5

Split

Day 5

Split

Day 5

Split

Day 5

Split

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Walking Tour of Split Old Town & Diocletian's Palace

This two-hour guided tour will take you to the Roman emperor Diocletian's 1700-year-old palace which was built as his personal rest home. Walk from the Bronze Gate through the central hall of the ancient cellars is the main communication line between the busy waterfront promenade, the Riva, and the palace's main forecourt, the Peristyle. You'll also stop by the Cathedral of St Duje, one of the most beautiful cultural attractions on the Adriatic coast, the Roman temple of Jupiter (latterly a Christian baptistry), the fabulous Golden Gate, and the medieval Croatian bishop who introduced the Croatian language in religious services.

Mid-Day/Afternoon

Explore Palace Ruins & Venetian Alleyways in Old Split

Split's Old Town started out as a luxurious retirement palace for the Roman Emperor Diocletian. As Roman emperors often met bloody ends, about half of the palace consisted of a less luxurious fortress designed to accommodate a large garrison of loyal Roman soldiers. Within the palace's high walls there were also temples, streets, and large courtyards, meaning it was only natural that long after the Diocletian was gone and the empire fallen, much of the palace was incorporated into Split's Old Town. Indeed about half of the Old Town consists of the former palace area. Despite falling into disrepair and constant reconstructions over the intervening millennia, the Palace remains one of the best-preserved examples of Roman architecture in the world. It's principal set-piece buildings, such as Diocletian's mausoleum and the Temple of Jupiter still remain. But the palace is far from being just an archeological site and it continues to this day as a living and breathing historical monument with 2,000 to 3,000 people still resident within its ancient walls. This means that so much tinkering has gone on over the centuries that it's no longer immediately recognizable as an ancient Roman structure. On the other hand, up close and personal you can still make out the remains of some of the imperial apartments that are used today as outdoor bars and cafes and shops. And the medieval tenements built by the Venetians were built in large part from the stones scavenged from Diocletian's original buildings. The tangled mass of alleyways, small squares, and narrow lanes just outside the Palace is also well worth exploring. The Venetian architecture makes the setting particularly enchanting (Split was ruled by the Republic of Venice for centuries).

Late Afternoon/Early Evening

Marjan Peninsula & the Fisherman's Quarter of Veli Varoš

Veli Varoš is a neighborhood situated at the western end of the old town that is crammed full of charming old stone houses and apartments characteristic of Dalmatia, and narrow cobbled streets that wind up the Marjan Hill. The district once represented the poorer part of Split developed by farmers and fishermen looking to make a better living in the city and seeking shelter from Ottoman military incursions. Today property prices have accelerated northwards, but it's still well worth reconnoitering the maze of paths and traffic-free lanes as you head to the top of the neighborhood to catch magical views of the city. Venture beyond the Fisherman's Quarter and you will be surrounded by typically Mediterranean forest landscape on the Marjan Peninsula.

Day 6

Split

Day 6

Split

Day 6

Split

Day 6

Split

Early Morning to Afternoon

Excursion to Beautiful Hvar Island

Hvar has a reputation as the Croatian Ibiza, i.e. lots of young people partying as if their lives depended on it, but it's actually much more than that and remains relatively unspoiled and comparatively affordable in relation to the mainland coast. Both of its main towns, Hvar and Star Grad, are lovely medieval towns full of traffic-free alleys surrounded by ancient stone houses; these act as a romantic backdrop to the towns' many cafes from where you can indulge in people-watching and view the fancy yachts filling up the harbor. In the summer, you can take a passenger-only 1-hour catamaran trip directly to Hvar Town. In other months, Hvar is still relatively easy to get to via a 2-hour car ferry to the main island port of Stari Grad. If you do take the ferry, it's still just a short bus or taxi ride to Hvar or Stari Grad - you can even walk to Stari Grad from the ferry port. Keep in mind though that you must be quick off the ferry to catch the bus. If you can afford it, taking a private boat is the ultimate way to experience Hvar, as you can swim, snorkel, and sunbathe along the way. Also keep in mind that while Hvar is happening in the warmer months, it is quite sleepy in the off season. Many restaurants and attractions will be closed, but if you enjoy exploring in peace and quiet, it is the perfect time to visit.

Day 7

Split to Plitvice Lakes

Day 7

Split to Plitvice Lakes

Day 7

Split to Plitvice Lakes

Day 7

Split to Plitvice Lakes

Early Morning to Mid-Day

Excursion to the Krka Waterfalls

While the more famous Plitvice Waterfalls are much larger and get all the press, the Krka waterfalls also pour crystal clear blue water over karst rock formations. And just like Plitvice, they are so beautiful that a National Park was created to protect them. But they also have a couple of key advantages over Plitvice. First of all they are much closer to Split, meaning it is much more manageable to visit them as a day trip. In fact Krka is only an hour from Split, versus a three hour drive to reach Plitvice. Keep in mind though that the waterfalls can only accommodate a limited number of people and the park limits entry. So if you want to be assured of getting in, either get there very early, or book ahead with an organized group. One more thing to remember is that it is not just about swimming - the National Park is also a great place for a hike. Also, don't forget your watershoes if you plan to swim, but please note that you are no longer allowed to swim beneath the main cascading falls.

Afternoon/Late Afternoon

Swim and Sun with the Locals on Bačvice Beach

A rare sandy beach, Bačvice is a favorite among Split locals and hence a great place to indulge in some covert people watching while lapping up the sun. Just a few minutes' walk from the bus and train stations and the ferry terminal, Bačvice beach is also the spiritual home of the traditional Croatian water sport of picigin - a form of volleyball in which a group of players tries to keep a ball in the air in shallow water using the most athletic and acrobatic moves possible. There are showers and changing rooms at both ends of the beach, while Café Zbirac has a reputation for good food and drink. Immediately behind the beach is a swanky modern three-tier pavilion with several cafes and a couple of chic eating places inside. It's a popular venue for after-dark drinking and feasting whatever the time of the year. A coastal path leads from Bačvice past a couple smaller bays and many more cafes; it's a pleasant area for late afternoon or evening perambulations all year round.

6:50 PM - 9:45 PM

Private Transfer from Split to Plitvice

A private transfer with door-to-door service is certainly the most convenient way to travel. The 3.5 hour journey to Plitvice takes you through the dramatic moutains and valleys of of Dalmatia, transporting you from the rugged and arid coastline to deep, green forests. Since the tourism dollars of European tourists are so important to Croatia, the country has expended large sums on building an impressive highway system to facilitate their drives south. However, near Plitvice the 4-lane highway disappears and you will travel on 2-lane roads. While bus connections do exist for this route, and are usually more affordable and carbon friendly, you may prefer the ease of travel and service offered by a private driver.

Day 8

Plitvice Lakes

Day 8

Plitvice Lakes

Day 8

Plitvice Lakes

Day 8

Plitvice Lakes

8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Guided Tour of Plitvice Lakes

On this private four-hour tour you will see the most eye-catching and majestic of any natural attraction in Croatia, if not all the Balkans; the Plitvice Lakes National Park is an astounding 8-kilometer (5-mile) stretch of 16 lakes that cascade one into the other over a terraced sequence of barriers formed over millennia. Thanks to its mineral-rich waters, the Park's lakes practically glow with a brilliant turquoise hue when seen from afar, and are crystal clear up close.

Mid-Day to Early Evening

Highlights of Plitvice Lakes

The most eye-catching and majestic of any natural attraction in Croatia, if not all the Balkans, the Plitvice Lakes National Park is an astounding 8-kilometer (5mi) stretch of 16 lakes that cascade one into the other over a terraced sequence of barriers formed over millennia. Thanks to its mineral-rich waters, the Park's lakes practically glow with a brilliant turquoise hue when seen from afar, and are crystal clear up close. All the lakes have been made highly accessible via an intricate and lengthy trail of wooden boardwalks that snake around the edges of the waterways and numerous waterfalls, plus there are electric boats and a battery-operated bus service. It gets congested in the summer months, but an early start will reward you with some of the most beautiful scenery you're ever likely to lay eyes on. If you have limited time available because you're only in Plitvice for a few hours or you've arrived late in the day and will leave early the next morning, then we strongly recommend that you choose a trail between the two entrances and do either a loop to get back to where you started or simply go from one entrance to the other. The walking distance between the two is very roughly 8km (5mi), but if you want to take it really easy then you can go part of the way on an electric boat on Lake Kozjak: there's a short ride between P1 and P2 near Entrance Two that starts at 8am and finishes at 6pm; a longer boat ride between P2 and P3 takes 30min and starts at 8.30am and finishes at 4.30pm, while the last boat going in the opposite direction leaves at 5pm. The boats do not operate January-March and November-December, and they are free (though you may be asked to show your entrance ticket).

Day 9

Plitvice Lakes to Ljubljana

Day 9

Plitvice Lakes to Ljubljana

Day 9

Plitvice Lakes to Ljubljana

Day 9

Plitvice Lakes to Ljubljana

8:00 AM - 11:15 AM

Private Transfer to Ljubljana

A private transfer with door-to-door service is certainly the most convenient way to travel. While bus connections do exist for this route, and are usually more affordable and carbon friendly, you may prefer the ease of travel and service offered by a private driver. Taking the bus will require at least 3 extra hours of travel time as well as a connection in Zagreb, meaning you have to purchase two separate tickets with no guarantees in case of delays from the first leg. The 3-4 hour journey to Ljubljana takes you through the picturesque landscape of Slovenia and Croatia. Much of the journey will be along often winding 2-lane highways, but for at least part of the journey, you will take advantage of the excellent 4-lane highway systems in Croatia and Slovenia.

1:15 PM - 3:15 PM

Guided Walking Tour of Ljubljana

On this private walking tour, you get to know the unique character of Ljubljana Old Town, where distinct Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture combines with masterly creations by the 20th-century architect Jože Plečnik. See the city's best-known sights, like the Triple Bridge, the four squares of the Old Town, the areas dedicated to the city's famous outdoor market, and the beautiful Secessionist architecture around Miklošičeva cesta.

Mid-Day

Explore Ljubljana Castle

Resting on a verdant green hill immediately overlooking the Old Town with its immaculately whitewashed walls, it's hard to imagine that the 900-year-old Ljubljana Castle was not so long ago on the block for demolition. One idea was to build a new parliament building atop the hill in place of the castle. Fortunately, the city authorities thought better of it and instead made the castle and its grounds as open and accessible to visitors as possible. These days most of the castle space is dedicated to interesting exhibitions of one kind or another, and its history is brought vividly to life by actors playing figures from the castle's past. Originally a medieval fortress, the first castle on the hill was probably constructed in the 11th century and rebuilt in the 12th century. It acquired its present profile with an almost complete overhaul in the 15th century, whereas the majority of the buildings you see today date from the 16th and 17th centuries. As soon as you approach the castle you'll be struck by how modern designs have been incorporated into the structure, such as large glass viewing panels, steel beams, and a clock tower. The inner courtyard also boasts glass-fronted gift shops, two popular restaurants, and a cafe. If you arrive via the funicular you will enter the castle basement supported by steel girders with a number of exhibition spaces featuring modern art and the story of the castle's 20th-century reconstruction.

Day 10

Ljubljana

Day 10

Ljubljana

Day 10

Ljubljana

Day 10

Ljubljana

8:00 AM

Full Day Small Group trip to Lake Bled, Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle

This full day trip will take you to the main tourist sights of Slovenia including the stunning Bled Lake, Bled Castle, the Postojna Cave, and Predjama Castle, as well as some lesser-known attractions that showcase the wild and mysterious beauty of Slovakia.

Day 11

Ljubljana

Day 11

Ljubljana

Day 11

Ljubljana

Day 11

Ljubljana

Early Morning to Late Afternoon

Self Guided Excursion to Lake Bohinj Alpine Nature Excursion

Escape to the serene and majestic Lake Bohinj, a gem in the heart of Slovenia's Julian Alps, on a self-guided excursion from Ljubljana. This excursion offers more than just a visual spectacle; it's also an opportunity to choose from a number of different outdoor activities. to Hike to a waterfall or Alpine peaks, feel the adrenaline rush of rafting down a pristine river, or explore the picturesque landscape by cycling through the valley leading to the lake. Lake Bohinj is a perfect trip for those with adventurous soul, as well as for those seeking extraordinary beauty and tranquility.

Day 12

Ljubljana to Zagreb

Day 12

Ljubljana to Zagreb

Day 12

Ljubljana to Zagreb

Day 12

Ljubljana to Zagreb

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Guided Group Cycling Tour of Ljubljana

On this guided cycling tour you will pedal along the enchanting embankments on the river Ljubljanica all the way to the Ljubljana Botanic Garden, take a garden tour, and continue through the famous vegetable gardens of Krakovo towards Tivoli Park to enjoy a rest and a picnic snack there. On the last leg of the tour, you will visit the Metelkova mesto alternative culture center.

Mid-Day/Afternoon

Wander Ljubljana's Charming Old Town

Ljubljana may be one of the smallest and newest European capitals without world-famous monuments, but what it lacks in renown it more than compensates for in spark and self-confidence in comparison to the introspection of Europe's larger cities. Having suffered little trauma from the breakup of Yugoslavia other than the 'Ten-Day War' in 1991, the Slovenian capital is now an obviously prosperous and self-assured place that has successfully absorbed and integrated a whole variety of external influences from Austria, the Mediterranean and the Balkans over the centuries, and then adapted and tailored them to produce a unique distillation that's remarkable in such a small country. It's one of the continent's greenest and most liveable capitals, having been awarded by the EU with the coveted Green Capital of Europe title for 2016. Car traffic is restricted in the center as one street per year is pedestrianized, leaving the leafy banks of the emerald-green Ljubljanica River, which flows through the city's heart, free for pedestrians and cyclists. There's even a free taxi service in the car-free city center, which is a golfcart-like electric vehicle called Kavalir. It travels slowly around the pedestrianized streets and you can jump on and off anytime you like (it holds up to 5 people at a time). In summer, cafes and restaurants set up shaded seating along the river, making it one of the liveliest (and busiest) open-air dining areas around.

5:50 PM

Transfer to Rail Station by Taxi

Trains depart from Ljubljana Rail Station (Železniška postaja Ljubljana) station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. If staying at a hotel, we suggest asking them to order a reliable taxi, as Ljubljana taxis sometimes take advantage of travelers. For maximum convenience you can schedule a private transfer. Some private transfers will even help with your bags. Unfortunately Uber is not yet available in Ljubljana.

18:36 - 20:47

Rail or Bus Journey to Zagreb

Your scenic journey to Zagreb should take about 2 hours and 20 minutes on a direct train. In most cases, you will travel on a EuroCity or InterCity train, which are modern and comfortable trains with air conditioning and a good wifi connection (but not always). After making your way through the fertile and undulating landscape of Central Slovenia and the region of Lower Carniola, you will reach Zagreb just a short time after passing the Croatian border. The passage over the border is interesting when you consider that both countries were not so long ago both parts of Yugoslavia and there were no internal borders. IMPORTANT NOTE: This rail corridor is undergoing construction in 2021-22, so it may be necessary to take bus instead.

8:47 PM

Arrival and Transfer by Taxi or Public Transport

Most trains arrive in Zagreb Main Station (i.e. Zagreb Glavni kolodvor), the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option, and trams pick up from directly in front of the station. Taxis are available at all rail stations but are known for taking advantage of tourists. Uber is also available for those with the app. Some private transfers even meet you directly on the platform to help with bags.

Day 13

Zagreb

Day 13

Zagreb

Day 13

Zagreb

Day 13

Zagreb

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Highlights of Zagreb, Guided Tour

On this 2.5-hour private tour, you will see the main sights and vibrant everyday life in Zagreb. You will visit the oldest parts of town, hear genuine Zagreb stories and legends, and enjoy a walk through the old town's green promenade. Highlights include Zagreb cathedral, the short funicular connecting the lower and uppers parts of the city, the oldest part of the city called Gradec were the city's parliament and best museums are to be found, the famous pedestrianized Tkalčićeva Street that has one of the most engaging and fun dining areas in Southern Europe and the open-air market of Dolac.

Mid-Day

Visit to Mirogoj Cemetery

Visiting a cemetery isn't usually perceived of as a typical tourist activity unless it's the final resting place of a famous personality, but like the famous ancient cemetery in Prague's Jewish Quarter or Père Lachaise in Paris, Mirogoj is an exception to the rule. It's true that Mirogoj has its share of famous Croats, but the vast majority are unknown to foreigners, so the main attraction is the open-air art gallery atmosphere created by its monumental tombs, arcades and pavilions. With its ivy-covered, fortress-like entrance, and interior work by some of Croatia's best late 19th century sculptors, Mirogoj Cemetery is one of the most beautiful and peaceful spots to spend a few hours in Zagreb. It's also one of the most lovely cemeteries in all of Europe. You may also hear the expression "mirogojček", which is a rather irreverent slang expression for a wine of such appalling quality that it will "put you in Mirogoj in no time".

Afternoon/Late Afternoon

Explore the Merchant's Old Town: Gradec

Zagreb won't strike you as a particularly hilly city, yet it nevertheless has its own funicular which leads to one of its most historic neighborhoods; the former walled medieval town of Gradec. While small, Gradec has all the charms of more famous destinations such as Prague or Krakow, but with fewer crowds. Wandering its cobblestoned lanes you will also be surprised with several delightful viewpoints where you can take in the city spread out below you. Unlike the adjacent Kaptol Old Town, which was built around the cathedral and relied on church administration for its livelihood, Gradec was a town of merchants. Today, however, Gradec is at the heart of Croatian government, as it is where the Sabor (Croatian Parliament) and other Croatian government ministries are located. The center of Gradec is St. Mark's Square, where each weekend from April to October (weather permitting) you can watch Zagreb's Cravat Regiment perform a changing of the guard ceremony. Fun fact - the word cravat, i.e. tie, was derived from these soldiers and their colorful neckties.

Early Evening/Evening

Explore the Bishop's Old Town: Kaptol

In the quaint streets of Kaptol you will find the center of Zagreb's nightlife and dining scene, as well as plenty of shopping and historical sight-seeing opportunities. The main landmark and original raison d'etre of Kaptol is the impressive Zagreb cathedral, but you can also discover an open-air farmer's market and architectural gems ranging from the middle ages to the 19th century. The main entrance into Kaptol is through Zagreb's most prominent public space, Ban Jelačić Square. While most visitors do not realize it, Zagreb's Old Town was historically two towns with two very distinct identities and personalities: the bishop's town of Kaptol, and the merchant's town of Gradec on the hill above it. They were in fact often bitter and sometimes even violent rivals, and were separated by a small river where Tkalčićeva Street now runs.

Day 14

Depart Zagreb

Day 14

Depart Zagreb

Day 14

Depart Zagreb

Day 14

Depart Zagreb

To Be Determined

Transfer to Airport by Taxi

You can use Uber or your hotel will be happy to arrange a taxi pick up for you and can give you an estimate of the price. If you are picked up two hours and 45 minutes prior to departure, you should have plenty of time to catch your flight. If you are leaving during rush hour, you may want to budget an extra ten to fifteen minutes.

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A Perfect 2 Week Itinerary in Croatia and Slovenia for Active Travelers

14 Day Tour of Dubrovnik, Split, Plitvice Lakes, Ljubljana and Zagreb

$3495

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Arrival in Dubrovnik Airport and Transfer by Taxi or Bus

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