The Croatian

Welcome to Zagreb! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (D)

Landmarks & Legends This morning, get acquainted with Croatia’s capital city when you join your Local Guide for a sightseeing tour that includes sights of the Parliament, Stone Gate the Archbishop’s Palace, and the Cathedral. Enjoy some free time to explore more and try some local specialties for lunch. A scenic drive takes you across the border into Slovenia, to reach the charming, green, capital city Ljubljana. (B,D) 106 mi / 170 km TOUR HIGHLIGHT HISTORY & MYSTERY Explore the ancient city of Zagreb where Central Europe, the Mediterranean, and Southeast Europe meet with a magnetic culture amid medieval architecture and offbeat cafes and bars to enjoy. In the Upper Town of Zagreb admire the historic Croatian Parliament building and see the Stone Gate, the only fortification entrance that is still standing, and now home to the city’s most important shrine.

Castles & Dragons Follow your Local Guide for a sightseeing tour of Ljubljana’s main landmarks and hear about the influence of the Hapsburg Dynasty. See the medieval castle, the City Hall, St. Nicholas’ Cathedral, and visit the Town Hall’s inner court. The rest of the day is yours, perhaps explore more of the Old Town and indulge in some traditional dishes. (B) TOUR HIGHLIGHT CULTURAL GEMS If you’re wondering why there are so many dragons decorating the cobblestone streets of Ljubljana, it’s thanks to the mythological heroes Jason and his Argonauts who stole the Golden Fleece and fled here. Legend has it that the dragon that lived here wasn’t too welcoming. For ages, the dragon of Ljubljana has been the protector and mascot of Ljubljana. Aside from green dragons seen from the cafes and bridges, this university town was voted 2016 Green Capital of Europe.

Going Underground Drive to Postojna for a definite highlight! A visit of the world-famous caves. [LOCAL FAVORITE] Your experience comprises an underground train ride and walking tour. Pass through amazing corridors and see impressive limestone formations. Later, reach the seaside resort of Opatija. (B,D) 81 mi / 130 km LOCAL FAVORITE NATURAL WONDER Explore the world's most captivating cave on an unforgettable ride on an underground train. Enter the surreal subterranean world of shiny white stalagmites shaped by millions of years and millions of drops of water in the Postojna Cave. See the baby dragons (Olms) who call the caves home - in the mysterious underground caverns of Slovenia.

The Maiden and the Seagull Enjoy a free day in Opatija with a walk along the promenade, see the Croatian Walk of Fame and the Maiden with the Seagull statue. Browse the narrow streets of the Old Town, watch the world go by from one of its cafés, or relax on one of the beaches. (B) ENHANCED FREE TIME EXPLORE MORE with lots of ways to spend your day. Take your time and soak in the relaxed atmosphere and natural beauty of Opatija as you wander through its streets and along its scenic coastline. Admire the famous Maiden with the Seagull statue by sculptor Zvonko Car on the promenade overlooking Kvarner Bay, it has become the symbol of Opatija.

Into the Woods Reach the verdant landscape of the Plitvice Lakes National Park. Follow your Local Guide on a walking tour through trails and over bridges, while you admire the natural wonders and learn about the flora and fauna. Later, take a scenic drive along the Adriatic coastline to Zadar. (B,D) 199 mi / 320 km TOUR HIGHLIGHT NATURAL WONDERS Croatia’s first national park, Plitvice Lakes is the oldest and largest national park in the Republic of Croatia. Lush forests, pristine lakes, and wondrous waterfalls share this natural paradise with a wealth of wildlife, including wolves, bears, bobcats, and a bountiful species of birds. Words can’t do justice to this spectacular natural wonderland, so join us and see this spectacle of pure nature for yourself.

Sun Worship Start the day with a guided walking tour through the Old Town of Zadar, see the main square and the Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun monument. Continue to Trogir, dating back to 400 B.C., for an orientation walk and free time to see the cathedral and Renaissance Cipiko Palace. Later, arrive in the stunning city of Split. This evening, [LOCAL FAVORITE] enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D) 137 mi / 220 km LOCAL FAVORITE TASTES & TRADITIONS After exploring the historic squares of Zadar and Trogir, settle in for a sumptuous dinner at a local restaurant in the Croatian town of Split, for the perfect place to spice things up with authentic Croatian cuisine.

The Emperor’s Escape Join your Local Guide for a walking tour through the labyrinth of medieval streets located within part of the Old Town better known as the Emperor Diocletian’s Palace. Free time this afternoon and evening to continue exploring this incredible city, browse the stores, sink your teeth into some of the local specialties, or join an optional excursion. (B) TOUR HIGHLIGHT A LEGEND SLEPT HERE Discover one of the world’s best-preserved monuments to Roman architecture with a walking tour in Split. You’ll see the spectacular Diocletian Palace that was built for the Roman emperor Diocletian at the turn of the 4th-century AD, and forms nearly half of the Old Town of Split. Having served as the emperor's villa, summer house, and military camp, this ancient palace evokes the power and strength of the Roman Empire.

Mediterranean Magic Arrive in Dubrovnik and make the most of a free day; absorb more culture and history, browse the stores, take in the amazing panorama from different viewpoints, or join an optional excursion.(B) 162 mi / 260 km TOUR HIGHLIGHT ART & ARCHITECTURE It isn’t hard to see why the city of Dubrovnik is known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” The old town surrounded by its remarkable city walls is protected by UNESCO. Over the centuries this breathtaking city has been an inspiration to many artists. Game of Thrones fans may recognize this formidable setting and the Rector’s Palace as a film location for the epic TV series.

Spend Your Day Your Way in Dubrovnik Follow your Local Guide for a walking tour of the historic center. Explore more of Dubrovnik with your choice of included Globus Choice excursions. (B,D) Walking on Walls The city of Dubrovnik is completely embraced by its iconic city walls that have survived intact for centuries. Spend time walking along the walls at your own pace on this self-guided visit brimming with photo opportunities and stunning vistas of Dubrovnik and the Adriatic Sea. To Summit Up Soar up the side of Mount Srd on the Dubrovnik Cable Car for stunning views en route to the panoramic summit above. Cast your eyes on the spectacular views along the way to soak in the miles of marvelous vistas above. This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner. (B,D) ENHANCED FREE TIME EXPLORE MORE with lots of ways to spend your day. Stroll along the streets of the old town, browse the shops, try out some more local specialties, Tonight, raise a glass with your travel companions and toast an unforgettable vacation.

Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)