Day 1, arrive in Zagreb, Sunday
Welcome to Zagreb! You will be met and transferred to your hotel. The day is at leisure until you gather with your fellow travelers and your tour director for an orientation and welcome reception this evening. (WR)
Day 2, to Ljubljana, Monday
This morning we embark on a city tour in Zagreb featuring the historic Upper Town, St Mark’s Church, St. Catherine’s Church, the Cathedral, the Parliament, and the Government Palace. After our tour, we continue our journey to Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia. (B)
Day 3, in Ljubljana, Tuesday
We visit the most significant sights of the old city center: the picturesque open-air Central Market, the Three Bridges, the Baroque Town Hall, and the Robba’s Fountain. We conclude our tour with a boat ride on the river Ljubljanica. The remainder of the day is at leisure. (B)
Optional tour: Wine tasting
Day 4, to Rovinj, Wednesday
We journey south to Postojna, home to one of the largest caves in Europe. We tour this fantastic subterranean world by miniature electric train. Afterward, we continue to Rovinj and enjoy some free time there. (B)
Day 5, in Rovinj, Thursday
Our full day of touring takes us through Istria where we marvel at the beauty of its rolling hills, silvery olive groves and hillside vineyards. Our first stop is in the town of Groznjan, home to many artist colonies. After our visit, we taste some famous Istrian truffles. Then we continue to the picturesque town of Motovun. After Motovun, we drive to Pazin where we enjoy a traditional lunch. We return to our hotel and the evening is at leisure. (B, L)
Day 6, to Venice, Friday
In the morning, we depart Rovinj and drive south to Trieste in Italy for an orientation tour and visit of Miramare Castle and its grounds. The castle was built by the Habsburg monarchy on a cliff overlooking the Adriatic Sea. After our visit, we continue to the romantic city of Venice. (B)
Optional tour: Pub crawl “Venetian style”
Day 7, in Venice, Saturday
We begin our exploration of Venice at St. Mark’s Square, for a walking tour which includes visits of the St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, views of the Bell Tower and Bridge of Sighs. During our tour we stop for a tasting of Spritz, a typical Venetian aperitif. The balance of the day is at leisure. In the evening, gather with your fellow travelers and your tour director for our farewell dinner. (B, D)
Optional tour: Gondola serenade
Day 8, depart Venice, Sunday
One last breakfast in Italy before you are transferred to the airport in Venice. Alternatively, you can continue your journey and join Kompas’ “Quintessential Italian Trio” tour. (B)