Adriatic Wonders – Immerse Yourself

The UNESCO World Heritage property comprises the city of Venice and its lagoon situated in the Veneto Region of Northeast Italy. Founded in the 5th century AD and spread over 118 small islands, Venice became a major maritime power in the 10th century. The whole city is an extraordinary architectural masterpiece in which even the smallest building contains works by some of the world’s greatest artists such as Giorgione, Titian, Tintoretto, Veronese, and others. In this lagoon covering 50,000 km², nature and history have been closely linked since the 5th century when Venetian populations, to escape barbarian raids, found refuge on the sandy islands of Torcello, Jesolo, and Malamocco. These temporary settlements gradually became permanent and the initial refuge of the land-dwelling peasants and fishermen became a maritime power. Over the centuries, during the entire period of the expansion of Venice, when it was obliged to defend its trading markets against the commercial undertakings of the Arabs, the Genoese, and the Ottoman Turks, Venice never ceased to consolidate its position in the lagoon. In this inland sea that has continuously been under threat, rises amid a tiny archipelago at the very edge of the waves one of the most extraordinary built-up areas of the Middle Ages. From Torcello to the north to Chioggia to the south, almost every small island had its own settlement, town, fishing village, and artisan village (Murano). However, at the heart of the lagoon, Venice itself stood as one of the greatest capitals in the medieval world. When a group of tiny islands was consolidated and organized in a unique urban system, nothing remained of the primitive topography but what became canals, such as the Giudecca Canal, St Mark’s Canal, and the Great Canal, and a network of small rii that are the veritable arteries of a city on water. Venice and its lagoon landscape is the result of a dynamic process that illustrates the interaction between people and the ecosystem of their natural environment over time. Human interventions show high technical and creative skills in the realization of the hydraulic and architectural works in the lagoon area. The unique cultural heritage accumulated in the lagoon over the centuries is attested by the discovery of important archaeological settlements in the Altino area and other sites on the mainland, which were important communication and trade hubs. Venice and its lagoon form an inseparable whole of which the city of Venice is the pulsating historic heart and unique artistic achievement. The influence of Venice on the development of architecture and monumental arts has been considerable. Itinerary:

• Arrival in Venice and a private taxi boat transfer from Venice Airport to your hotel in Venice
• Time at leisure and an overnight in Venice

Itinerary:

• Breakfast at the hotel and meeting with your guide for a private walking tour of Venice city center
• End of the tour with a 35-minute Private Gondola Ride through the canals
• Special dinner in the courtyard at I Local restaurant (table booked / to be paid on the spot
• Return to your hotel on your own and an overnight in Venice

The island of Murano is the biggest of the three major islands in Venice’s northern lagoon. It offers a sense of what Venice might have been like as a small village, well before the tourists invaded. The docks and canals of Murano bustle with fishermen unloading the day’s catch, its callei (streets) are heated by the furnaces of its many glass factories, an age-old tradition of this island and a craft that has long since spread to Venice itself. Burano is an island of brightly-colored fishermen’s houses and hand-tatted lace in Venice’s Northern Lagoon. Tiny Burano is the fishing village version of Venice, a clutch of islets threaded by mini-canals and lined by eye-popping colored houses that lie in the far northern reaches of the Venetian Lagoon. The name of the game on Burano is lace-making, an antique art that can still fetch high prices in Venetian shops. Itinerary:

• Breakfast at the hotel
• Half-Day Tour to discover the islands of Murano & Burano onboard a private Motorboat and escorted by a private professional Tour Guide – You’ll start your Private Murano & Burano Boat Tour itinerary visiting the island of Burano, one of the most picturesque of the Venetian lagoon. Famous for its lace-making industry, this charming and colorful fishing village has its streets and canals lined by pastel-colored houses. If you’re interested, as part of this excursion, your guide can take you to visit the lace museum, where you can see splendid artifacts made by the local women over the centuries.
• After a pleasant stroll around the Island of Burano, you’ll make your way to Murano which is the most famous of the Venetian Islands, thanks to the world-known “Murano Glass”, produced here. The people of Venice have been making crystal and glass since the 10th Century when the Venetian merchants brought back the secrets of production from the East.
• As part of your Private Venice Murano & Burano Island Boat Tour at Murano, you’ll visit a selected glass-factory. You’ll see a demonstration of glass-blowing as well as visit the factory’s showroom full of beautiful glassware that exemplifies the high quality of glass produced on the Island.
• A transfer back to your hotel, time at leisure, and an overnight in Venice

Trieste is a city and seaport in northeastern Italy. It is situated towards the end of a narrow strip of Italian territory lying between the Adriatic Sea and Slovenia, which lies almost immediately south and east of the city. Trieste is located at the head of the Gulf of Trieste and throughout history, it has been influenced by its location at the crossroads of Germanic, Latin, and Slavic cultures. Trieste was one of the oldest parts of the Habsburg Monarchy. In the 19th century, it was the most important part of one of the Great Powers of Europe. As a prosperous seaport in the Mediterranean region, Trieste became the fourth largest city of the Austro-Hungarian Empire (after Vienna, Budapest, and Prague). In the fin-de-siecle period, it emerged as an important hub for literature and music. However, the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and Trieste’s union with Italy after World War I led to some decline of its “Mittel-European” cultural and commercial importance. Enjoying an economic revival during the 1930s and throughout the Cold War, Trieste was an important spot in the struggle between the Eastern and Western blocs. Today, the city is in one of the richest regions of Italy and has been a great center for shipping, through its port (Port of Trieste), shipbuilding, and financial services. Ljubljana has preserved evidence of all the five millennia of its history, including, among others, the remains of the Roman city of Emona and the old city center with its medieval castle and beautiful buildings with Baroque façades, decorative portals, and uneven roofs. Other significant bits in the mosaic of Ljubljana are its picturesque bridges across the river Ljubljanica and its vast Tivoli park, stretching into the very city center. Both residents and numerous visitors perceive Ljubljana as a city made to the measure of man. Ljubljana is classified as a mid-sized European city, but it has preserved its small-town friendliness and relaxed atmosphere while providing all the facilities of a modern capital. It is a unique city dotted with pleasant picturesque places where you can expect all kinds of nice little surprises. Ljubljana Castle lies atop Castle Hill and is a well-known landmark here. This monument has served as military housing as well as the royal residence over the past centuries. The Dragon Bridge truly symbolizes Ljubljana's history, beauty, and architectural style and adds glamor to its skyline. This is, in fact, the first bridge in the entire world to have been constructed using reinforced concrete. You can identify St. Nicholas cathedral by its twin towers and green-colored dome. Built in the year 1707, the church is dedicated to the popular saint of boatmen and fishermen of this region. To truly enjoy Ljubljana's sights and get a feel of the city, you can visit the city market. Its picturesque setting near baroque and cathedrals make it a nice place to stay. You can buy all kinds of fresh fruits and vegetables, spices, herbs, local arts, and crafts, and Slovenian delicacies like horse pate, Karst prosciutto, oils, cheeses, ‘potica’ cake, and more in this area. The Town’s main square was destroyed by an earthquake in the 15th century and was later remodeled in true Baroque style. The square is home to the Souvan House, City Art Museum, Town Hall, and the ancient Lichtenberg house. Preseren Square has a statue of France Preseren, Slovenia’s most famous poet overshadowed by the poetic muse. In a corner of the square, his lover gazes across at him. Preseren Square is surrounded by beautiful buildings such as the salmon pink Franciscan Church, which is lovely and peaceful inside. This church dates from the seventeenth century. There is also the oldest department store in Ljubljana- a beautiful art nouveau building with a statue of the god Mercury on its roof and a lovely ornate staircase inside. The central element in touristy Ljubljana is this triple bridge. The central part is the original bridge, built in 1842 and designed by an Italian architect. In 1929, Joze Plecnik, trying to eliminate congestion in traffic, planned, and built, ending in 1932, two side narrow bridges for pedestrians. Leaving Preseren Trg and crossing the Triple Bridge you will enter Ljubljana’s Old Town and Mestni Trg. The Robba Fountain is located at the center of mestni Trg just by the Town Hall and is one of Ljubljana’s best examples of Baroque monumental architecture. the fountain is also known as The Fountain of Three Carniolan Rivers. It was built between 1743 and 1751 by the sculptor and architect Francesco Robba (1698-1757) who spent most of his life in Ljubljana and is contributed greatly to Ljubljana’s present-day architecture along with Jaze Plecnik. The Fountain has sculptures depicting three river gods which represent three Carniolan rivers – the Sava, the Ljubljanica, and the Krka. Itinerary:

• Breakfast at the hotel and check out
• Private boat taxi transfer from your hotel to Piazzale Roma dock and assistance to Santa Lucia Train Station in Venice
• The fast train from Venice to Trieste Centrale Station
• Upon arrival meet with your driver for a private transfer from Trieste to Ljubljana
• En route stop for lunch (on your own) and an onward drive to Ljubljana
• Meeting with your guide for a walking city tour of Old Town Ljubljana after check-in at the hotel
• Time at leisure and overnight in Ljubljana

Bled, the town that exists for a thousand years is sheltered by picturesque mountains, with an Alpine lake and the only Slovenian island that reigns in the middle. Lake Bled is truly the jewel of Slovenia with its legendary island in the middle of the lake, castle, and hot springs. Its beneficial climate has attracted numerous cosmopolitan visitors for centuries. The most renowned symbol of the island is the Church of the Assumption which demands a climb up the 99 stone-step staircase. As far as the wishing bell is concerned. Don’t just watch it. Ring it. Climb up to Bled Castle and enjoy the finest view of the lake with its island. Demonstration of printing on a reconstructed Gutenberg’s printing machine and prints of certificates is available. The Bled Castle offers the finest view of the Bled island, the town of Bled, and of the wider countryside of the Gorenjska region. Experience the picturesque architecture of the castle and the museum collection, representing the historical development of Bled, its culture, and its population. Get familiar with the traditional manual technological procedures of printing in the castle printing shop, order a small bottle of wine and seal it with sealing wax in the castle cellar, and get acquainted with artistic ironworks at the castle forge. Recover your strength in the castle restaurant and then visit the multi-vision. Itinerary:

• Breakfast at the hotel
• Meeting with your guide for a full-day excursion to Bled. Upon arrival, you will take a walking tour of Bled town with a visit to Bled Castle, a pletna boat ride, and a visit to the Church of the Assumption of Mary that you reach after 99 steps. The wishing bell is another attraction because when you ring the bell, make a wish and it will be granted
• Return to Ljubljana and overnight at the hotel

Unveil the secrets behind the old facades, discover the hidden courtyards and revive the stories from the past. We’ll give you a completely new perspective of Zagreb City. A walking tour of Zagreb starts with the main square Ban Jelačić, the Cathedral, Tkalčićeva street, the Stone Gate, Upper Town, the historical center of the city, St. Mark’s Church with the famed multi-colored roof.  Using funicular, close to the Lotrščak Tower, you can go down to the Lower town to see a part of the famous Ilica street, the Croatian National Theater, University and so much more. Itinerary:

• Breakfast at the hotel and check out
• Meeting with your driver for a private transfer from Ljubljana to Zagreb
• Meeting with your guide in the hotel lobby for a private walking city tour after check-in at the hotel
• Time at leisure and overnight in Zagreb

Plitvice Lakes National Park is Croatia’s best-known national park and the only one of eight listed on the UNESCO List of World Heritage sites. The main attractions of this park, unique in the world, are the 16 small lakes joined by waterfalls created by the sedimentation of travertine, a particular type of limestone. This national park encompasses the source of the river Korana, located in the area surrounded by dense forests of beech, fir, and spruce. There are also several caves in the park, springs, and flowering meadows. The brown bear stands out as one of many protected animal species. The popularity of this park is also boosted by the special means of transport used to ferry visitors around: the panoramic electric trains and the noiseless electro-powered boats. With a network of paths, visitors can get around and access the numerous waterfalls and the rocky lake shores easily. Zadar is a treasure trove of archaeological treasures and monuments to the ancient, medieval, and Renaissance periods. This is visible by a number of sacral and architectural monuments – the church of sv. Donat [St. Donatus] where every summer the sounds of Zadar’s musical evenings echo, the Roman Forum near the main square, Kalelarga – the longest and widest street, the Cathedral of sv. Stošije [St. Anastasia], an Archaeological Museum with its exceptional treasures and many other monuments of cultural and historical heritage (town gate, Arsenal, churches, museums…). In a city with the most beautiful sunset, in a maritime archipelago facing a multitude of islands and islets, which protect the city from the strong winds, enjoy the symphony of the Sea Organ and magical urban light installation Pozdrav suncu [Greeting the Sun] near the new harbor for cruise ships. Itinerary:

• Breakfast at the hotel and check out
• Rental car delivery to the hotel and a self-drive from Zagreb to Zadar with an en-route stop in Plitvice Lakes National Park
• Onward drive to Zadar and time to explore the town on your own
• Time at leisure and overnight in Zadar

Šibenik is just a stone’s throw away from your hotel. Should you visit any nearby town, such as Skradin, Primošten, Vodice, or Pirovac, or get acquainted with other famous Adriatic cities such as Zadar or Split all you need to do is enjoy a short scenic drive to your final destination. The first step in discovering the Dalmatian treasures is the nearby Fort of St. Nicholas and the newly restored walkway along the famous St. Anthony’s Channel. It takes only a few minutes by bike from Solaris to get to the walkway which connects the medieval Fort of St. Nicholas and the little island Školjić, after which it climbs all the way to the top from where there is a beautiful view of the entire Šibenik and of the National Park Kornati, visible on the other side. Itinerary:

• Breakfast at the hotel and check out
• Rental pick-up and a self-drive from Zadar to Šibenik
• Continue your journey south towards Šibenik
• Arrival at 4* hotel in Šibenik, time at leisure, and overnight at the hotel

Itinerary:

• Breakfast at the hotel
• Self-drive to Krka NP and spend the day in nature. You can either enter the park at the Lozovac entrance and walk through the area or take a boat ride from Skradin. Enjoy the fresh air, and wild nature, and use the opportunity to visit old ancient watermills and unique ethnographic collections.
• Return to Hotel 4*, time at leisure and an overnight

Omis is a small town and harbor in Central Dalmatian located between Split and Makarska, situated in the mouth of the Cetina river and surrounded by massive gorges. In the past, Omis was notorious because of the pirates of Omis whose ships were a centuries-long symbol of retaliation, courage, and strength. The evidence of proud and turbulent Omis history can be found on every corner of the Omis Riviera. Omis churches and Omis fortresses are silent stone reminders of the power and the might of infamous Omis pirates. Today, Omis is one of the most beautiful places on Croatia’s Adriatic Coast. River tubing on the Cetina river – This is a great and unusual way to enjoy the unique atmosphere of the Dalmatian hinterland. The fun and relaxing floating through the crystal green waters of the river Cetina is ideal for all generations. To float in tubes we use quiet parts of the river Cetina that are intersected by small rapids and they guarantee true entertainment. The descent down the river is completed with a break for swimming and beverages by choice. Swimming: You can swim at a few stops during the trip. River tubing equipment: A helmet, a life jacket, and short neoprene pants. Equipment & Staff: All equipment used is registered and certified in the EU. All customers must wear Personal Flotation Devices (PFD) and helmets at all times while on the river. All of our professional guides are registered at the Croatian mountain rescue service. Staff members speak Croatian and English. Fitness Level: A minimum level of fitness is required. What to Bring: Footwear such as joggers (to wear into the river), a swimming suit, a towel. Itinerary:

• Breakfast at the hotel and check out
• Self-drive from Hotel 4* to
• Omiš where you’ll meet with your instructors and head to the Zadvarje meeting point for river tubing on the Cetina river
• End of the experience at a traditional local restaurant for lunch (three-course meal)
• Final self-drive to Split where you will return the rental car in the city center and embark on your deluxe cruise ship to spend a night in Split on-board (Cruise subject to availability)
• check-in from 2pm onwards. After settling, enjoy the guided tour of Split, a historic town under UNESCO protection and part of the world heritage with an abundance of Roman architecture – of particular interest is the magnificent Diocletian palace, once inhabited by the Roman emperor. After the tour, return to the ship for a welcome meet & greet cocktail reception on board. Overnight in Split.

  Morning departure to Brač island where swimming is planned at the most famous beach in Dalmatia – Zlatni Rat near Bol – whose gravel promontory shifts from side to side as the wind and waves constantly change in shape. Bol is a typical fishermen’s village converted into a popular tourist destination. Continue towards the jet-set island Hvar with lunch on board at the Pakleni Islands.  Hvar is the longest and sunniest island in the Adriatic known for lavish lavender fields and breathtaking beauty. Afternoon arrival followed by a short presentation of lavender products and a tour of the town’s historical landmarks – the Renaissance cathedral with its original tower, and the oldest community theater in Europe founded in 1612. Hike up to the town fort overlooking the harbor for some lovely scenic views of your ship and the Pakleni islands. In the evening Hvar offers an abundance of entertainment – numerous restaurants, bars, and cafes are open long into the night. Overnight in the port.

Early morning cruise towards small island Biševo to visit the Blue cave, a magnificent natural phenomenon (entrances to be paid on the spot – approx. 15 EUR). As sometimes weather conditions can be very unpredictable, the possibility of our visit will depend on those conditions, however, you will be notified of this on time. Continue to the island of Vis, once a strategic naval Yugoslav base and closed to the public. Due to this isolation, Vis has a special charm – “the Mediterranean as it once was” making it really interesting to visit. Situated on the northern side of the island, Vis has developed near the remains of the ancient Issa, the first urban center in Croatia. Try some exquisite wine sorts in one of the Vis traditional wineries. If interested, visit the remains of the Roman thermal place, City museum or simply take a walk enjoying the views of the beautiful Villae Rusticae situated along the waterfront. Overnight in the port of Vis.

Early morning departure towards the Korčula island best known as the birthplace of Marco Polo. Stop for lunch in one of the secluded bays en route. Afternoon arrival in Korčula followed by a guided walking tour of this enchanting town surrounded by walls. and one of the best-preserved medieval cities in the Mediterranean. Fish bone street pattern was used in Korčula Old Town design to reduce the effects of wind and sun and provide citizens with sheltered and comfortable accommodation. Korčula has an abundant choice of restaurants to enjoy your gourmet experience and there are numerous bars and clubs for those looking for evening entertainment. Optional excursion to a small village near Korčula for typical Dalmatian dinner and to find out more about the history and traditional way of living. Overnight in Korčula.

The next morning, we head further south to the Island of Mljet. The legend says Greek hero Odysseus spent years on this island when he was captured by the nymph Calypso. Join the cruise manager for a stroll to the famous salt lakes in the Mljet National Park and enjoy the boat ride to the St Mary Isle to visit an ancient Benedictine monastery, an old abbey, and a Church dating back to the 12th Century. Alternatively, you can rent kayaks, bicycles, scooters, or convertible cars to roam around the National Park or island on your own, but beware of the nymphs. Enjoy the peace and tranquility of the island. Dinner on board and overnight in port Polača or Pomena.

Departure for a small village called Slano on the mainland, a peaceful fishermen’s village and the starting point to Ston, another, once fortified small village famous for its oysters. After exploring the town’s medieval ramparts, a short coastal walk leads us to an oyster farm to learn more about oysters and tasting this delicious treat. Transfer back to the ship for the Captain’s dinner with entertainment and music.

Early morning departure to Dubrovnik – a unique town on the Adriatic. The special charm of this ancient town is the buildings that have remained from the time of the old Dubrovnik Republic. A larger part of the monuments belonging to the modest Renaissance architecture with some traces of the Gothic style. Before we tie the ropes at Gruž harbor cruise alongside the old Dubrovnik city walls while lunch is served on deck. After docking, transfer to the old town for the guided walking tour of this magical town. Take the cable car from the Old Town to Srđ mountain to enjoy scenic views of the Walls and the Elaphiti Islands. For those with more enthusiasm, we recommend a walk on top of the 1940 m long city walls! Time at leisure for dinner and overnight in Dubrovnik.

Pelješac is a peninsula in southern Croatia, in the Dubrovnik -Neretva County, just about an hour and a half drive from Dubrovnik. It is around 70 km long and is connected with the Croatian Mainland at Ston. The Pelješac Channel divides the peninsula from the island of Korcula. Scattered like breadcrumbs across the foothills of the dolomites, the hamlets and villages of southern Pelješac evoke an ancient past. The rocks, the vegetation, the groves of pine and cypress – everywhere a sense of timelessness prevails. On the hills above the sea, abandoned villas and gardens, stone walls, and columns lie crumbling in the sun. Lemon, fig, and almond trees, herbs, and wildflowers surround the village’s gardens and fields. The historical sea captains’ town of Orebic – with its shops, market, cafes, and restaurants is at the bottom of the Sveti Ilija Mountain. A footpath into the mountains to the summit of Sveti Ilija begins near Viganj too – Croatia’s windsurfing capital. There, seaside restaurants and pebbly beaches attract a lively crowd in the summer months. The island of Korcula and Mljet are is just across the channel. Pelješac peninsula is known as one of the best wine-producing regions in Croatia. Itinerary:

• Breakfast on board and disembark
• Meeting with your driver for a half-day excursion to the Pelješac peninsula with an en-route stop in Ston and an optional visit to Ston Walls
• Enjoy wine tasting and a visit to a local winery with an off-road vineyard tour
• After an hour's drive, you will reach another family-run estate for a winery tour followed by lunch at a 500-year-old konoba/tavern
• Return drive to Dubrovnik and accommodation in your hotel
• Time at leisure and an overnight in Dubrovnik

Itinerary:

• Breakfast at the hotel and spend a day at leisure
• Time at leisure and an overnight in Dubrovnik

Full-day excursion to Kotor. The Montenegrin Adriatic coast is 295 km long, with 72 km of beaches, and with many well-preserved ancient old towns. The main attractions along the north coast are: The Old Town of Herceg Novi, the old town of Kotor – listed with UNESCO world heritage sites, Boka Kotorska (Bay of Kotor), with the ancient small town of Perast, the old town of Budva – a well preserved old town, Sveti Stefan –  a small island hamlet turned into a luxury hotel, etc. Itinerary:

• Breakfast at the hotel and meeting with your driver for a private full-day excursion to Kotor Bay
• In Kotor you will meet your local guide for a guided tour of Kotor and Perast area
• Time at leisure for lunch (on your own) and shopping
• Return to Dubrovnik for an overnight

Itinerary:

• Breakfast at the hotel
• Time at leisure and an overnight in Dubrovnik

Itinerary:

• Breakfast at the hotel and check out
• Meeting with your driver for a private transfer to Dubrovnik Airport
• End of program