Starts at
Dubrovnik
Ends at
Ljubljana
Duration
15 days
Group Size
Maximum 12
Physical Rating
light 
Style
discovery
About your trip
Take a scenic journey through Croatia and Slovenia on this 15-day tour from lively Dubrovnik to green and vibrant Ljubljana. Experience both history and nature at their best – from Roman ruins and walled cities to unspoilt beaches and rugged islands just off the Adriatic Coast. Quaff wine with locals in Korcula, delve into the ancient history of Split, hike through the Hvar hinterland and be swept up in the magic of Bled. Discover a wealth of European islands and architecture and lose yourself in the serenity of this charming and picturesque region.
Trip Highlights
- Spend a full day exploring the green island of Mljet – with its small seaside villages, lush national park trails, shimmering waters and largely untouched environment, you’ll never want to leave!
- Snack on salty cheese made from sheep’s milk during a trip to the karst island of Pag, where a determined group of islanders wring themselves a living from the barren, rocky landscape.
- A guided tour of the 4th-century Diocletian’s Palace in Split reveals not just Roman-era beauty, but also the local businesses that operate in the alleyways and cellars of this epic structure.
- Gaze over the beautiful hillside, lavender fields and vineyards of Hvar Island during a leisurely organic dinner at an agriturismo.
- Stroll through Plitvice Lakes National Park, marvelling at luminous lakes and waterfalls that seem to have been sketched by an artist.
- Explore the stunning Lake Bled, with its famous island church and aquamarine water, on a guided walk with your leader.
Your Itinerary
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Day 1 Dubrovnik
Dobro Dosli! Welcome to Croatia. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. You can arrive at any time during the day as there are no activities planned until this important meeting. Although it experienced devastation during the war in the early 1990s, Dubrovnik’s old town is the undisputed jewel of the Dalmatian Coast. With its tiled roofs and white stone buildings, the old town remains as charming as ever. Extensive restoration has taken place to return it to its original splendour, and even today repairs are still being undertaken. With the sparkling water of the Adriatic in the background, Dubrovnik is picturesque, full of character and can easily be covered on foot. If you do arrive early, why not head out to one of the Elafiti Islands? There's Lopud, a quiet island with lovely hikes, clean beaches and a ruined castle. Kolocep is a sleepy enclave that boasts walks for every fitness level and Sipan, which is the most populated of the isles and reputedly has the most hospitable inhabitants. Alternatively, you might choose to simply laze about on one of Dubrovnik's beaches and people-watch for hours.
Accommodation
Hostel (twin share with private facilities )
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Day 2 Dubrovnik
Start the day by beating the crowds with an early morning walk along Dubrovnik's famous 2-kilometre-long city walls surrounding the old town. Enjoy views of the sea from the fully intact medieval structure, then enjoy all that Dubrovnik has to offer with the remainder of the day free for you to explore. Visit Big Onofrio's Fountain, a masterpiece built by famous European architect Onofrio della Cava. This 15th-century landmark was built to supply water to the city, flowing from the spigots into the collection trough surrounding it. Be sure to check out the Franciscan monastery with one of the world's oldest, continuously functioning pharmacies, founded in the 13th century. If you still feel energetic after a day exploring the city you can take the switchbacks leading up Srd Hill behind Dubrovnik for spectacular views of the city and the Dalmatian coastline. Otherwise, the newly restored cable car can whisk you to the top in no time. The hill is topped by a castle of Napoleonic times, which now houses the Museum of the Croatian War of Independence.
Accommodation
Hostel (twin share with private facilities)
Activities Included
- Dubrovnik - Dubrovnik Card (1 day local transport and entry to sites)
- Dubrovnik - City Walls Walk
Optional Activities
- Dubrovnik - Hike up Mt Srd - Free
- Dubrovnik - Church of St. Blaise - Free
- Dubrovnik - Lokrum Island Boat Trip
- Dubrovnik - Mt Srd Museum of Croatian War of Independence
- Dubrovnik - Discover Game of Thrones Filming Locations Urban Adventure
- Dubrovnik - Mt Srd Cable Car
- Dubrovnik - War Photography Museum
- Dubrovnik - Rector's Palace
- Dubrovnik - Franciscan Monastery
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Day 3 Peljesac Peninsula / Korcula Island
Journey to Korcula today, along the narrow and scenic Peljesac Peninsula to its very tip. The last stretch to Korcula will be done by car ferry. For the next two nights, stay with generous hosts – locals who rent out their rooms in the summer season. The rooms, while simple, are the best way to put money back into the local economy. When you arrive, head out for a sunset hike to Zrnovo village. Wind through old villages next to olive trees and soak up the view over Peljesac Channel. End your hike when you arrive at a family-owned restaurant in Zrnovo village and sit down for an included dinner of local ingredients, including traditional Dalmatian meat loaf or pasticada (traditional stewed beef) and some fresh grilled vegetables with olive oil, usually served with fresh goat and sheep cheeses (and maybe some smoked ham to tie it all together). Return back to Korcula via private vehicle and use the evening to relax.
Accommodation
Private apartment
Activities Included
- Korcula Island hike
- Authentic dinner at Zrnovo village family owned restaurant
Optional Activities
- Korcula - Traditional Moreska Dance Performance
- Korcula – City Museum
- Korcula - Wine tasting at local winery
- Korcula – Hop on hop off boat
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Day 4 Mljet Island National Park / Korcula Island
Today, head on a day trip to the stunning Mljet Island. Mljet is Croatia’s greenest island, with a large section of the north western shores part of a national park. The island is well known for its two salt lakes – Veliko Jezero and Malo Jezero (big lake and small lake) – that are located at the north end of the island. With some of the clearest waters in the world, any of the Adriatic islands shimmer in the sunlight, but Mljet is extra special. Start Mljet's exploration with a short hike into the island's interior, followed by a ferry ride to St Mary's Benedictine Monastery, located on an island in one of the lakes. Spend the day discovering its tiny towns dotted around the island, the weaving and winding coastline full of nature walks and scenic lookouts and, of course, the sandy beaches, tranquil inlets and turquoise blue shores calling out to be explored. Mljet is a little further away and less visited than the tourist hotspots of Brac and Hvar, so you’ll be able to stray away from the crowds and have this peaceful paradise to yourself. Head back to Korcula in the afternoon for a relaxing evening, hopefully full of delicious food and some great local wine.
Accommodation
Private apartment
Activities Included
- Mljet Island - Day Trip to Mljet Island National Park
- Mljet Island - St Mary Island Benedictine Monastery
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Day 5 Hvar Island
A hydrofoil ferry takes you to the neighbouring island of Hvar this morning. . Beautiful Hvar has an air of Venice about it and is known as the 'Queen of the Dalmatian Islands'. When you arrive, get to know the town with its wonderfully preserved Renaissance facades on an orientation walk. Later, you can enjoy your included hop on hop off taxi boat pass that departs every half hour to the nearby Pakleni islands – largely uninhabited and often described as being among the most beautiful in the world. All three islands have gorgeous beaches and walking trails to explore and also boast plenty of bars and restaurants, so you'll have no shortage of lunch, aperitif and dinner spots to choose from!
Accommodation
Private apartment
Activities Included
- Hop on hop off boat taxi ticket
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Day 6 Hvar Island
Today is a free day to explore this island at your leisure. Maybe take a bus to the interior of Hvar Island where you can take a leisurely hike through the abandoned villages of Velo Grablje and Malo Grablje, gently descending all the way down to the sea at Milna Bay. On the way you can witness what remains of the typical Mediterranean life that flourished on the Croatian islands in the 18th and 19th centuries. Hike past dramatic jagged limestone cliffs and slow your pace to enjoy the undulating farms, fields of lavender and rosemary, and ancient olive groves. Cool down in the shimmering waters upon arrival into the little town of Milna where the hike ends. Alternatively there are plenty of other options for exciting activities in town. If you’re not feeling super energetic today, spend the day lounging at one of the island's many quiet beaches and enjoy a sunset stroll along the harbour promenade.
Accommodation
Private apartment
Optional Activities
- Hvar Island - Full Day Boat Cruise to Blue Cave, Green Cave and Vis Island
- Hvar Island - Spanjola Fortress
- Hvar Island - Pakleni Islands Half Day Trip
- Hvar Island - St Stephen’s Cathedral
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Day 7 Split
Catch a boat to Split this morning. Situated on a small peninsula on the eastern shores of the Adriatic Sea, Split is the second largest city in Croatia. Join a local guide for a walking tour of this stunning seaside town and get to know its history. See the original and fantastically preserved basements under the city, as well as the Cathedral in Diocletian's Peristyle and Jupiter's Temple. Explore the impressive ruins of Diocletian's Palace – Split's most imposing structure and some of the most interesting ruins on the Adriatic coast. Portions of the Palace are over 1700 years old and there’s ample time to walk around. Split grew out from Diocletian's Palace and you can almost see it evolving in a multitude of different ways right before your eyes. Some cultures might have made the palace a museum, but Split is a dynamic and vibrant place, and now the palace houses many businesses and homes. If your feet get tired, why not grab a drink at a cafe on the Riva Promenade and people watch for a while? Be sure get your group together for a harbourside dinner – it’s time for more of a relax!
Accommodation
Hotel
Activities Included
- Split - City Walking Tour with Local Guide
- Split - Diocletian's Palace
Optional Activities
- Split - Diocletian's Palace Cellars
- Split - Fish Market - Free
- Split – Highlights of Split Urban Adventure
- Split - Marjan Hill Hike - Free
- Split - St Domnius Cathedral and Tower
- Split - Ethnographic Museum
- Split - City Museum
- Split - Gallery of Fine Arts
- Split - Ivan Mestrovic Gallery
- Split - Archaeological Museum
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Day 8 Split
Take a full day to explore Split further. You might like to take a day trip to the surrounding area and visit the ancient Roman city of Salona, or the sleepy towns of Trogir or Sibenik. There will be a meeting at 6 pm to welcome any new travellers joining you on the next stage of your adventure. In the evening why not head out for some fresh seafood with your travel companions?
Accommodation
Hotel
Optional Activities
- Split - Fish Market - Free
- Split – Highlights of Split Urban Adventure
- Split - Marjan Hill Hike - Free
- Split - City Museum
- Split - Gallery of Fine Arts
- Split - Ethnographic Museum
- Split - Diocletian's Palace Cellars
- Split - Ivan Mestrovic Gallery
- Split - St Domnius Cathedral and Tower
- Split - Archaeological Museum
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Day 9 Zadar
This morning, you'll travel by local bus northwest to Zadar. For centuries Zadar was the capital city of Dalmatia, and the city's rich heritage is visible at every step. An important coastal town, the musical steps of the ‘Sea Organ’ on Zadar's waterfront express its important relationship with the sea. Trace marble streets through the Old Town and discover Roman ruins in amongst medieval churches. Enjoy some local food and drinks in a city that’s home to a vibrant café culture. Zadarsko pivo is a light beer with a very pleasant taste, just a little bit bitter, with a rich flavour. After, maybe treat yourself to a gourmet meal at a contemporary Croatian restaurant. Try njoki (lamb in red wine) with Dalmatian ham and rocket salad, or opt for the popular choice of fresh tuna carpaccio or a fillet in scampi sauce. Also try the famous liqueur, Maraskino, made from locally-grown maraschino cherries according to a centuries' old secret recipe. This unique drink was a favourite at European imperial and royal courts and has been produced in Zadar since 1821.
Accommodation
Hotel
Activities Included
- Zadar - Leader-led orientation walk
Optional Activities
- Zadar – Museum of ancient glass
- Zadar – Gold and Silver of the city of Zadar Museum
- Zadar - Archaeological Museum
- Zadar - Cathedral Bell Tower
- Zadar - Church of Saint Donat
- Zadar - St Anastasia's Cathedral - Free
- Zadar - Roman Forum - Free
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Day 10 Zadar
Head out of the city this morning for a special experience at the farm of the Benedictines of St. Mary. This order leads a secluded life, believing that working on the agricultural land brings them closer to God. During your visit, you'll taste some of the award-winning jams, liqueurs and juices produced in the monastery. Sample high-quality olive oils and wines with cheese and bread, then take a tour of the property. As you walk around the orchards, you'll learn about how the nuns live, the fruits grown on the grounds and how their products are produced. After some time to explore, you'll head back to Zadar in the afternoon, where you'll have free time. Maybe try the famous liqueur, Maraskino, made from the locally grown maraschino cherries. This unique drink was a favourite at European royal courts and has been produced in Zadar since 1821.
Accommodation
Hotel
Activities Included
- Zadar - Nunnery & farm visit
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Day 11 Plitvice Lakes National Park
Travel inland this morning to your next base in Grabovac and visit Plitvice Lakes National Park – an Eden of waterfalls and lakes. Fed by the Bijela and Crna Rivers, the waters tumble from tree-lined ridges through dense forests. Sixteen lakes fed by underground springs are split into the upper and lower lakes. The upper are in the dolomite cliffs, where water weaves in and out of the karst, dropping dramatically down to the lower lakes. This interplay of water, rock and plant life creates a dynamic landscape. Look out for over 120 species of birds, including hawks and owls, and butterflies that transform the park into a riot of colour. After, visit Licko Petrovo Selo – a small village next to the park with a local NGO that focuses on preserving the historical art of woolly men's underwear. Take a short tour of the NGO and hear about how they preserve this important part of their cultural heritage (and maybe even buy a warm souvenir to take home).
Accommodation
Guesthouse
Activities Included
- Plitvice Lakes - National Park Visit
- Licko Petrovo Selo NGO visit
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Day 12 Zagreb
Continue to Croatia’s capital and largest city – Zagreb. Full of parks and squares, Zagreb is a laidback place, proud of its coffee culture and the perfect spot to wander. Follow your leader on an orientation walk when you arrive and then enjoy some free time for the rest of your time here. Maybe join one of the many free walking tours in the city and engage with a local here to learn about their daily life or browse the city’s stunning neo-baroque and gothic architecture. You could check out Tkalciceva Street’s lively social scene or head up Medvednica Mountain, where the views stretch as far as neighboring Slovenia on a clear day. To live like a local, maybe head to Zagreb’s open-air markets where you’ll find all kinds of fresh vegetables, nuts, honey and liqueurs.
Accommodation
Hotel
Activities Included
- Zagreb - Leader-led Orientation Walk
Optional Activities
- Zagreb - Museum of Broken Relationships
- Zagreb - Mirogoj Cemetery - Free
- Zagreb - Cathedral - Free
- Zagreb - The Croatian Museum of Naive Art
- Zagreb - City Museum
- Zagreb - Lotrščak Tower
- Zagreb - Funicular
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Day 13 Ljubljana/ Bled
This morning, take the train and cross the border to Ljubljana. One of the smallest capitals in Europe, Ljubljana makes up for it by also being one of the greenest and most vibrant cities on the continent. Follow your leader on an orientation walk and ride the funicular up to Ljubljana Castle for panoramic views of the city. Dubbed the ‘dragon city’ due its ties to Greek mythology, you’ll likely spot dragon symbols scattered about. Ljubljana, home to 50,000 students, is known for its lively nightlife. Explore Metalkova for an alternative vibe or the Old Town for its historical charm – or ask your leader for their recommendations.
Accommodation
Hotel
Activities Included
- Ljubljana - Castle and Funicular
- Ljubljana - Leader-led walking tour
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Day 14 Ljubljana / Bled
Embark on a day trip to Lake Bled this morning. Your leader will guide you on a scenic walk that passes some impressive 19th century villas, including the residence of the former Yogoslav president ‘Marshal’ Titi – now known as the hotel Vila Bled. The rest of the day is free for you to explore all that Bled has to offer. If you’re feeling active, consider renting a paddleboard and taking a trip around the picturesque island. Alternatively, you can get on a Plenta boat ride – a wooden, awning-covered boat rowed by a special oarsman – and reach it that way. From there, climb the 99 steps to St Mary’s Church and ring the wishing bell. Be sure to seek out the famous Bled cream cake, which isn’t hard – nearly every cafe and cake shop in town claims theirs is the best. Return to Ljubljana in the evening and perhaps round your group together for a final dinner.
Accommodation
Hotel
Activities Included
- Bled - Walk around Lake Bled
- Bled - Day Trip
Optional Activities
- Bled - Mountain Bike Hire
- Bled - Pletna Boat Trip
- Triglav National Park - Canyoning
- Bled - Castle
- Triglav National Park - River Rafting
- Triglav National Park - Bus and Cable Car Trip to Mt Vogel
- Triglav National Park - Emerald River Adventure (full day)
- Triglav National Park - Vintgar Gorge
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Day 15 Ljubljana
There are no activities planned for the final day and you can depart your accommodation at any time. For those who wish to stay in Ljubljana, reach out to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.
What's included
- 8 Breakfasts, 0 Lunches, 1 Diners
- Hostel with private facilities (2 nights), Hotel (5 night), Guest House (1 night), Private apartment (6 nights)
- Dubrovnik - Dubrovnik Card (1 day local transport and entry to sites)
- Dubrovnik - City Walls Walk
- Korcula Island hike
- Authentic dinner at Zrnovo village family owned restaurant
- Mljet Island - Day Trip to Mljet Island National Park
- Mljet Island - St Mary Island Benedictine Monastery
- Hop on hop off boat taxi ticket
- Split - City Walking Tour with Local Guide
- Split - Diocletian's Palace
- Zadar - Leader-led orientation walk
- Zadar - Nunnery & farm visit
- Plitvice Lakes - National Park Visit
- Licko Petrovo Selo NGO visit
- Zagreb - Leader-led Orientation Walk
- Ljubljana - Castle and Funicular
- Ljubljana - Leader-led walking tour
- Bled - Walk around Lake Bled
- Bled - Day Trip
Customer Reviews
Average Customer Rating:
4.5/5
Independent Service Rating based on 110 verified reviews.
Well organised and well executed intense experience. Truly enjoyable.
Every aspect of the trip was planned and executed in the finest of detail. It is a very high paced trip that covers fantastic cultural aspects. Fantastic tour guide in Juno.
Rene
- Dec 20, 2024
Great value with fun people
We loved this trip!! It included so much for the price- definitely a great deal compared to other companies. And our fellow travelers were lovely people who really enhanced the experience! However, the anticipated activity level listed in the description did not at all match the actual requirements.
Jessica
- Dec 18, 2024
Morocco Oct 2024
This trip and the company behind it were truly exceptional. From the outset, the office staff provided excellent support, addressing all my inquiries and facilitating a seamless booking process. The on-site team, including our guide Hamid and our driver, were remarkable; their service exceeded all expectations. Some of our most unforgettable moments were spent with local families who prepared extraordinary lunches for us. The picturesque landscapes, the warmth of the locals, and the delicious cuisine all contributed to a wonderful experience. As someone who had never participated in a group tour before, I initially had some reservations, but this journey turned out to be extraordinary.
Ann
- Dec 14, 2024
Important Info
- A single supplement is bookable on this trip, excluding Days 1,2 & 11 where you will be in shared accommodation. Availability is limited due to small properties we use. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
- As this is a combination of 2 trips, your leader and the composition of your group may change in Split.
Additional Info
Is this trip right for you
The Croatian coast is ruggedly beautiful and mountainous. This makes for a gorgeous backdrop, but it also means plenty of steep steps. You will have to be able to easily lift your luggage and carry it up and down stairs and inclines. Also, stone streets become very slippery when wet. Some people may find Croatia's topography very demanding. Don’t let the heat keep you from exploring the world! Summer temperatures can be very high in this region (over 40°C), which can make things uncomfortable. It’s important to use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat, and drink plenty of water. Hotels in Europe often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together. In some cases, bathroom facilities will be shared rather than ensuite. Live like a local! Please note that on the islands of Korcula & Hvar and in Bled we stay in private apartments that locals rent out during summer. These are located in various buildings spread across town, but all are well located. The apartments are not hotels, which means there's no reception desk, room service or daily cleaning service, no televisions or washing machines. They differ in layout and facilities, can vary in size and most don't have air-conditioning and Wi-Fi. While multi-share rooms are assigned only to folks of the same gender, apartments are allocated on a mixed gender basis. Apartments may only have one bathroom which will be shared between the group members staying in the same apartment. If you have paid a single supplement, you will be allocated your own room, however this room will be in a shared apartment with shared bathroom facilities, not a single or studio apartment. On this trip you must pack as lightly as possible because you will be expected to carry your own bag and although you won't be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes), we strongly recommend keeping the weight under 15kg / 33lb. Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps to accommodate the cobbled streets, uneven surfaces, stairs and steps you are likely to encounter while carrying your luggage. You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for day trips.
Joining point instructions
Taxis are readily available outside the arrivals area at Dubrovnik Airport (airport code DBV). Alternatively an airport bus meets all arriving flights. From the final stop of the airport bus at the main bus station in Gruz, you can walk 5 min or 400 meters to Hostel Sol. Pre booked arrival transfer from Dubrovnik Airport (DBV): If you have pre booked an arrival transfer, your transfer driver will be waiting in the arrivals hall, holding a board with Intrepid's Logo or your name. In case of flight cancellations, changes or if you are not able to find the driver, please contact the transfer operator directly: +385 98 285 298.
Travel insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory on all our trips for those travelling internationally. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. If you are travelling within your home country or region please confirm before travel that you are entitled to access the public medical system easily should an accident occur. We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international trips, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company's 24-hour emergency contact number has been sighted by your group leader or local representative. If you have credit card insurance your group leader or local representative will require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving in-country. For travellers who reside within the European Union, Switzerland or USA the requirement to purchase travel insurance cannot be compulsory. However the purchase of travel insurance is still highly recommended, and travellers from these regions who decline travel insurance when travelling outside of their home region must sign a Travel Insurance Waiver Form at the Group Meeting, recognizing personal responsibility for emergency medical and repatriation costs should they arise. For assistance with travel insurance or other services, please visit the link below: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/booking-resources/our-services
Transport notes
TRANSPORT IN EUROPE Half the fun of travel is the travelling itself, that's why we like to travel the local way – whether that means mingling with commuters on a local train, watching the scenery roll by from the window of a long distance bus, arriving on a high speed train in the city centre of your next destination, or navigating each city's public transport system. In Europe, you are guaranteed to travel by genuine local public transport wherever possible, which puts you right in the centre of the action. PUBLIC BUSES This trip covers some distances by public buses. Buses in Croatia can range from high standard coaches with reclining seats and air-conditioning to older and more basic vehicles for shorter distances. PRIVATE VEHICLES Some sections of this trip are travelled by private transport. Our vehicles are locally sourced and are air conditioned and comfortable, which makes travelling enjoyable. On some days we will be covering long distances, which will make these days feel longer, however spectacular views and interesting stops along the way make up for it.
Group leader
All Intrepid group trips in Europe are accompanied by one of our local European group leaders. ’Local’ in this context means a leader who is European or lives in Europe. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Intrepid endeavours to provide the services of an experienced leader however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your leader is new to a particular region or training other group leaders. Your leader takes care of logistics, will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. At Intrepid we also aim to support local guides in the individual cities or locations we travel to. If you are interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location then your leader can recommend an optional local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip.
Visas
PASSPORT You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date. We need your passport information to get everything ready for your trip so it’s important that the information on your booking matches your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends. VISAS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your trip and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your trip. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the entry requirements for your nationality on your government's foreign travel advisories, consular websites or on our page here: www.intrepidtravel.com/visa-entry-requirements
Accommodation notes
The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation. Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available. OCCASIONAL ALTERNATIVE ACCOMMODATION The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline. On rare occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our usual accommodation. A similar standard of accommodation will be used in these instances. TWIN SHARE BASIS Accommodation on this trip is on a twin/multishare basis. We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender as per the gender marker on each of their passports. Please note there may be times where facilities will be shared rather than ensuite and rare occasions when you share a room with passengers travelling on different Intrepid trips than your own. CHECK-IN TIME Throughout the trip we request that our hotels prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination. PRE/POST TRIP ACCOMMODATION If you've purchased pre-trip or post-trip accommodation (if available), you may be required to change rooms from your trip accommodation for these extra nights. FACILITIES Your accommodation may not always have private en suite facilities or air-conditioning. European hotels generally don't provide kettles or fridges. PRIVATE APARTMENT ACCOMMODATION Please note that on the islands of Korcula and Hvar we are staying in private apartments that locals rent out during the summer months. These are located in various buildings spread across town, but all are within 15 minutes walk of the main square. They differ in layout and facilities, can vary in size and most don't have air-conditioning. This is the most effective way of staying in the centre of town.
Climate and seasonal
SUMMER Summer temperatures can be extreme in many of the regions visited (over 40°C/104°F), which can be uncomfortable. It’s important to use sun protection and drink plenty of water. Please carefully consider the time of the year you wish to travel and your suitability to that season. SHOULDER SEASON In contrast, weather in shoulder season can be unpredictable, and snow is not unheard of at higher altitudes. If you travel at the start or towards the end of the European season please pack accordingly with warm and/or waterproof clothes (preferably layers). The advantage of travelling during this time is that there are less tourists around.
Physical preparation
This trip can be enjoyed by just about anyone with a reasonable level of fitness. Some trips may have individual inclusions that may be of a higher physical rating compared to the overall rating of the trip. Please read the day-to-day itinerary carefully to find out more details on each day's activities, and whether they are suitable for you. Activities can be opted out of if you don't want to participate. EXPLORING EUROPEAN CITIES One of the pleasures of travelling in Europe is the ease at which cities can be explored on foot. On most trips, our leader will take you on frequent orientation walks, and you will be able to further explore in your own time. We recommend you pack comfortable walking shoes for this trip. Many of our customers are surprised at how much they end up walking, however this is entirely up to you, and public transport to take you back to our accommodation is never far away. TOPOGRAPHY Please be aware that the Croatian coast is very hilly and mountainous, which means lots & lots of steps are an inherent feature of the landscape. You will have to be able to easily lift your luggage and carry it up and down stairs and inclines. Also, stone streets can become slippery when wet. Some people may find Croatia's topography very demanding.
Safety
Most national governments provide regularly updated foreign travel advice on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip. Please refer to our website's safety page for links to major travel advisories and updates on safety issues affecting our trips here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/travel-alerts We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe-keeping of your passport, flight tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of our hotels have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. Your group leader or local representative will accompany you on all included activities, however, during your trip you'll have some free time to pursue your own interests or relax and take it easy. While your group leader or local representative will assist you with the available options in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your Intrepid itinerary, and Intrepid makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Please also note that your group leader or local representative has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Intrepid's operational safety policies can be viewed on our website at the link below. We recommend that you take a moment to read through this information before travelling, and would appreciate any feedback on how safety is being managed on our trips.
https://www.intrepidtravel.com/safety-guidelines
PETTY THEFT AND PERSONAL SAFETY While travelling there is always the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft, particularly in the more touristy cities. We recommend that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and encourage you to walk together and only on main, well-lit thoroughfares. Be particularly vigilant on public transport. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair or on the floor and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing.
SCAMS Common scams operating in Europe include ploys to get you fined on the metro without a validated ticket. Ensure that you always travel with a validated ticket (have your ticket stamped). Another common scam is used by children who distract you with a map or a newspaper and while you are attending to them, steal your valuables. You may also come across players offering you to participate in the so-called "shell game". This is a scam and you will most certainly lose your money.
FIRE PRECAUTIONS: Please be aware that local laws governing tourism facilities in this region differ from those in your home country and not all the accommodation which we use has a fire exit, fire extinguishers or smoke alarms.
SEAT BELTS: Please be aware that local laws governing transportation safety may differ from those in your home country and not all the transport which we use is able to provide seat belts.
BIKE HELMETS: Please note that helmets are not always provided for sightseeing on bicycles.
Why we love it
Spend a full day exploring the green island of Mljet – with its small seaside villages, lush national park trails, shimmering waters and largely untouched environment, you’ll never want to leave!
Snack on salty cheese made from sheep’s milk during a trip to the karst island of Pag, where a determined group of islanders wring themselves a living from the barren, rocky landscape.
A guided tour of the 4th-century Diocletian’s Palace in Split reveals not just Roman-era beauty, but also the local businesses that operate in the alleyways and cellars of this epic structure.
Gaze over the beautiful hillside, lavender fields and vineyards of Hvar Island during a leisurely organic dinner at an agriturismo.
Stroll through Plitvice Lakes National Park, marvelling at luminous lakes and waterfalls that seem to have been sketched by an artist.
Explore the stunning Lake Bled, with its famous island church and aquamarine water, on a guided walk with your leader.
Health
GENERAL HEALTH All travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell prior to travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements. When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. Please note that if in the assessment of our group leader or local representative a traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund. You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government's foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements.
Food and dietary requirements
While travelling with us you'll experience the vast array of wonderful food available in the world. Your group leader or local representative will be able to suggest restaurants to try during your trip. To give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat, generally not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule, our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. If you have dietary requirements and/or food allergies, please let your booking agent know prior to departure. BREAKFASTS There are some continental breakfasts included on this trip which may simply include bread/toast or pastries, butter, jam, coffee/tea/juice (or similar). VEGETARIANS Vegetarians might find the menu selection in Europe less varied than they would see at home. Vegetarianism is not as common in this region and generally the choices are basic, involving vegetables, soups, salads, bread, cheese, fruit, yoghurt, eggs etc. Vegans and those on gluten-free diets may find this region very challenging and may need to supplement meals with their own supplies from supermarkets and markets. Wherever possible we will cater for dietary needs for any included meals, but there may be times when those with special requirements may need to provide their own.
Money matters
SPENDING MONEY When it comes to spending money on the trip, every traveller is a little different. You know your spending habits better than we do, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals, drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry. Make sure you have read the itinerary and inclusions thoroughly so you know what is included in the trip price and what you may need to pay for while travelling. TIPPING Tipping can be an appropriate way to recognise great service when travelling. While it may not be customary in your home country, it is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many of our destinations and is greatly appreciated by the people who take care of you during your travels. It is always best to avoid tipping with coins, very small denomination notes, or dirty and ripped notes, as this can be regarded as an insult rather than the goodwill gesture it is intended to be. OPTIONAL TIPPING KITTY On Day 1 of your trip, your group leader or local representative may discuss with you the idea of operating a group tipping kitty, whereby everybody contributes an equal amount and your group leader or local representative distributes tips for drivers, local guides, hotel staff and other services included on your trip. This excludes restaurant tips for meals not included in your itinerary. The group leader or local representative will keep a running record of all monies spent which can be checked at any time, and any funds remaining at the end of the tour will be returned to group members. We have found that this is easiest way to avoid the hassles of needing small change and knowing when and what is an appropriate amount to tip. Participation in this kitty is at your own discretion, and you are welcome to manage your own tipping separately if you prefer. Please note the tipping kitty excludes tips for your group leader or local representative. YOUR GROUP LEADER OR LOCAL REPRESENTATIVE You may consider tipping your group leader or local representative for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however, as a guideline, 4-7 USD or EUR per person per day (in a currency relevant to your destination), can be used. Of course, you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length and involvement of your group leader or local representative on your trip. CONTINGENCY FUNDS We try to plan for every eventuality, but there are still some things beyond our control. We reserve the right to change an itinerary after departure due to local circumstances or a Force Majeure Event. In such emergency circumstances, the additional cost of any necessary itinerary alterations will be covered by you. Please note we are not responsible for any incidental expenses that may be incurred as a result of the change of itineraries including but not limited to visas, vaccinations or non-refundable flights. Make sure you have access to an extra US$500 for emergencies (e.g. severe weather, natural disasters, civil unrest) or other events that result in unavoidable changes to the itinerary (e.g. transport strikes or cancellations, airport closures). Sometimes these things necessitate last-minute changes to enable our trips to continue to run, and as a result, there may be some extra costs involved. The recommended amount is listed in USD for the relatability of universal travellers, however, local currency may be needed once in the country to cover these costs. CASH You can use your credit/debit card in ATMs, which are common throughout Europe. Before leaving home, check if your bank will charge fees for using your card internationally. Card payments are not always accepted in stores and restaurants. We recommend you carry some cash for these purposes. CURRENCY The official currency of both countries visited on this trip is Euro (EUR). BUDGET Please budget for additional meals and expenses while on your trip. We suggest EUR 675.00 for meals not included on this trip. Our suggestion is based on past traveller feedback but you may choose to spend more or less.
What to take
Most travellers prefer to take a small to medium wheeled suitcase, which is a great size for the packing capacity in our private vehicles. Whatever you take, be mindful that you will need to be able to carry your own luggage, handle it at airports, take in/out of accommodation and perhaps even walk short distances. Generally speaking, we recommend you pack as lightly as possible. You'll also need a day pack/bag for activities and day trips. In terms of weight, airlines generally allow a maximum of 20kg for check in luggage. Many travellers carry their luggage in a compact smaller suitcase or backpack with wheels. We recommend your bag has carry straps or handles so it is easy to lift and carry for the times you are unable to wheel it (ie. on rough surfaces or up steps). If you are taking overnight trains, or primarily using public transport then the smaller your luggage the easier it will be to store under or above bunks. Large suitcases may not be able to be taken on board. A lockable bag or small padlock for your bag will be useful especially when travelling on public transportation as well. You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water, camera, swimming suit, waterproof pouch/bag for phone, hiking shoes and jacket etc. when you’re exploring during the day. Below we have listed the essentials for this trip:
https://www.intrepidtravel.com/packing-list
WATER BOTTLE Please bring your own water bottle to refill. Although it can be difficult to avoid bottled water when travelling, please use the water dispensers which are provided on some of our vehicles and at some of our accommodation. When unable to avoid bottled water, it is better to buy the largest available and distribute it into your smaller bottle for the day. Some travellers like to bring a bottle with its own filtration system or water purification tablets. If you are walking or trekking as part of your trip, you will need to carry at least 2 litres of water with you.
TRAVELLING ON LOCAL TRANSPORT It's important that your bags can be locked, as on local transport it may be necessary that your luggage gets stowed separately (and unattended). The smaller your bag the better for you and other passengers. To ensure maximum comfort, try to pack small and light.
A couple of rules
Intrepid won't tolerate any kind of violence, harassment (whether physical, verbal or sexual), or disrespect toward fellow travellers, our teams or local communities. To ensure the wellbeing of everyone on the trip, decisions made by your group leader are final. Romantic relationships between travellers and group leader or local representative are not permitted while on trip. Any behaviour that prevents your leader from continuing the itinerary as planned, breaks local laws or opposes any of these guidelines may result in Intrepid denying your booking or removing you from the trip. If something concerns you during your travels, please speak to your group leader immediately. Alternatively, you can contact us on the emergency contact number detailed in the Problems and Emergency Contact Information section of this Essential Trip Information.
Emergency contact
While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or local representative straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip. We recognise that there may be times when your group leader or local representative may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case, please ask the group leader or local representative to speak to their direct manager. You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback, which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip. Please do be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is completed, so informing us while still travelling will give us the opportunity to resolve the issue in real-time. For general contact details please use the following page: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/contact-us If you have booked an arrival transfer, and you experience severe delays at immigration, baggage collection or customs, or if you are not able to find to the driver, please contact the transfer operator directly on the number listed in the joining point instructions in the section above. In case of a genuine crisis or emergency, you can reach our local office on the numbers below: Intrepid's Local Operator: +49 8024 4679 540
Responsible travel
Our Responsible Travel Policy outlines our commitment to preserving the environment, supporting local communities, protecting the vulnerable, and giving back to the places we travel. All our trip group leaders or local representatives, suppliers, and staff are trained on these principles and are core to us delivering sustainable, experience-rich travel. Explore the different parts of our Responsible Travel Policy by visiting: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/responsible-travel DRESS CODE In general, there are few dress restrictions in Europe. When visiting churches, monasteries or other religious sites modest dress is required - shorts or sleeveless tops may not be permitted, for both men and women.
Your fellow travellers
As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part. Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip prior to departure. SOLO TRAVELLERS On our trips, rooming is organised on a twin-share basis. We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender, as per the gender marker on each of their passports. We also offer an optional single supplement on most trips for travellers who prefer to have their own room. This only applies to accommodation during the tour. Pre-trip and post-trip accommodation booked through us will always be on a single-room basis. On a small selection of trips some accommodation will be open-gender and multishare, such as a felucca in Egypt or an overnight train in Vietnam. Please review the Accommodation section of the Essential Trip Information for details about your trip. LGBTQIA+ TRAVELLERS We strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. If your gender identity differs from what is indicated on your passport, please contact us so that we can discuss rooming options with you.
Itinerary disclaimer
ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk. COMBINATION TRIP Please note that this trip is a combination of two or more stand-alone trips. Your leader and the composition of the group will most likely change part-way through the trip. You can find details on where and on which day these changes are taking place in the daily itinerary. MUSEUM VISITS & OPENING TIMES Many sites, attractions and museums are closed on Mondays (and sometimes Tuesdays). We recommend checking the opening times of anywhere you're interested to visit and making reservations where required/possible.
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