Croatia & Slovenia Explorer

24 Aug –
5 Sep 2026

SELLING FAST!

Explore Dubrovnik’s Old Town, Adriatic islands, Krka & Plitvice waterfalls, and Lake Bled.

What to expect

Itinerary

Day 1
Johannesburg - Dubrovnik

We meet at O.R. Tambo International Airport and begin our overnight journey to Croatia. There’s a quiet sense of anticipation as we leave Johannesburg behind and look forward to the coastlines, hill towns and historic cities that await.

Day 2
The Pearl of the Adriatic

We arrive in Dubrovnik, where the terracotta roofs and glimmering Adriatic set the tone for the days ahead.

A short drive takes us to Hotel Adria, perched on the hills with sweeping views over the harbour and Old Town. The rest of the day is for rest or a gentle stroll before we meet again over dinner, enjoying local Dalmatian dishes as the sun dips behind the islands.

 

Highlights:

  • Views over the terracotta roofs and Adriatic
  • Evening dinner featuring local Dalmatian cuisine

Day 3
Within the City Walls

After breakfast, a guided tour reveals the stories behind Dubrovnik’s marble-paved streets, elegant squares and sturdy walls.

We explore Luža Square, the Rector’s Palace, and the Franciscan Monastery, with its centuries-old pharmacy. Afterwards, the afternoon is yours. Take the cable car to Mount Srđ for sweeping coastal views, or pause for a drink under the stone arcades. Late afternoon, we head to the quiet hills of Konavle or the coastal village of Cavtat for a relaxed wine tasting, framed by vineyards and olive groves.

Highlights:

  • Guided walking tour of Dubrovnik: Luža Square, Rector’s Palace, Franciscan Monastery
  • Optional cable car ride to Mount Srđ for panoramic coastal views
  • Wine tasting in Konavle or Cavtat amidst vineyards and olive groves

Day 4
Sailing the Elaphiti Islands

A full-day cruise carries us to the Elaphiti Islands of Šipan, Koločep and Lopud. These car-free islands are known for their pine forests, stone houses, and quiet walking trails. There’s time to swim, explore small harbours, or simply relax as a fresh seafood lunch is served on deck.

Returning to Dubrovnik, there’s time for a relaxed evening, whether over dinner or a quiet stroll through the old town.

Highlights:

  • Full-day cruise to Šipan, Koločep, and Lopud
  • Time to swim, explore harbours, or relax on deck

Day 5
The Mystical Neretva Delta and Split

Travelling north, we pause in the Neretva Delta, a patchwork of lagoons and channels shaped by the river. Aboard traditional trupica boats, we glide past fields of mandarins and reeds before enjoying a tasting of local spirits and seasonal fruit.

By late afternoon, we arrive in Split, where the old town’s Roman heart and lively waterfront invite an evening wander.

Highlight:

  • Explore the Neretva Delta aboard traditional trupica boats

Day 6
A Glimpse of Island Life

We board a ferry to Hvar, one of Croatia’s sunniest islands, known for its Venetian architecture and fields of lavender. Landing at Stari Grad, we travel across the island to Hvar Town, visiting its hilltop fortress and 17th-century theatre.

There’s time to wander cobbled streets lined with boutiques and stone façades before we ferry back to Split in the late afternoon. Dinner is relaxed, perhaps with sea bass or pasta with truffles, specialities of the Dalmatian coast.

 

 

Highlights:

  • Ferry to Hvar and visit Stari Grad and Hvar Town
  • Explore hilltop fortress, 17th-century theatre, and cobbled streets

Day 7
Mediaeval Charm, Waterfalls and Zadar Relaxation

We make a short stop in the island-town of Trogir, with its Romanesque churches and the Cathedral of St. Lawrence, known for its elaborately carved portal. Continuing inland, we arrive at Krka National Park, where wooden walkways take us past Skradinski Buk, a series of cascading waterfalls surrounded by emerald pools.

By evening, we arrive in Zadar, an underrated gem on the Adriatic, where we stay near the sea and hear the melodic sounds of the Sea Organ as the sun sets.

Highlights:

  • Stop in Trogir to see Romanesque churches and Cathedral of St. Lawrence
  • Walk wooden paths past Skradinski Buk waterfalls in Krka National Park

Day 8
Trails and Terraces

Leaving the coast, we travel inland to Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with 16 turquoise lakes connected by waterfalls and walkways.

We take time to walk through the park’s lush paths and dramatic viewpoints, listening to the sound of water rushing over travertine terraces. The experience is peaceful and immersive: a full day devoted to nature.

Highlights:

  • Full day at Plitvice Lakes National Park, UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Walk paths linking 16 turquoise lakes and cascading waterfalls

Day 9
Pula’s Past and Rovinj’s Colourful Shores

We continue to the Istrian Peninsula, where Pula welcomes us with its Roman amphitheatre, one of the best-preserved in the world. Walking through its ancient stone corridors, you can imagine the performances that once brought crowds to their feet.

In the afternoon, we arrive in Rovinj, where pastel-coloured houses rise from the harbour and narrow streets lead to the Church of St. Euphemia. Later, we end the day with a tasting of Istrian wines among the region’s gentle hills.

 

Highlights:

  • Explore Roman amphitheatre and historical sites in Pula
  • Wander the colourful, cobbled streets and waterfront of Rovinj

Day 10
Beneath the Karst

We cross into Slovenia and descend into Postojna Cave, a vast karst network with dramatic rock formations, underground rivers, and cathedral-sized halls. A short electric train takes us deep into the cave system, followed by a guided walk.

By afternoon, we arrive in Ljubljana, where café-lined riverbanks, tree-shaded squares and Art Nouveau façades invite an evening wander.

 

Highlight:

  • Guided tour of Postojna Cave in Slovenia via electric train and walking paths

Day 11
The Tranquillity of Lake Bled

We travel to Lake Bled, its glassy waters encircling a tiny island topped with a church. A traditional pletna boat carries us across, and those who wish may climb the 99 steps to ring the bell of the Pilgrimage Church of the Assumption.

Later, enjoy free time to walk the lakeshore or try Bled’s famous cream cake. Back in Ljubljana, we share a farewell dinner, a time to pause, connect and mark the end of our journey together.

 

Highlights:

  • Boat ride across Lake Bled to the island church
  • Optional climb of 99 steps to ring the Pilgrimage Church bell

Day 12
Farewell to Slovenia

There’s time for a slow breakfast or a last coffee before our transfer to the airport. With passports stamped and luggage packed, we set out for home, bringing with us the spontaneous moments of joy, stories, and places that have emerged over the last several days.

Day 13
Return to South Africa

We land in Johannesburg and return to familiar skies. While the journey is complete, the moments; a quiet cove, a shared table, a view from the fortress—remain.

We meet at O.R. Tambo International Airport and begin our overnight journey to Croatia. There’s a quiet sense of anticipation as we leave Johannesburg behind and look forward to the coastlines, hill towns and historic cities that await.

We arrive in Dubrovnik, where the terracotta roofs and glimmering Adriatic set the tone for the days ahead.

A short drive takes us to Hotel Adria, perched on the hills with sweeping views over the harbour and Old Town. The rest of the day is for rest or a gentle stroll before we meet again over dinner, enjoying local Dalmatian dishes as the sun dips behind the islands.

 

Highlights:

  • Views over the terracotta roofs and Adriatic
  • Evening dinner featuring local Dalmatian cuisine

After breakfast, a guided tour reveals the stories behind Dubrovnik’s marble-paved streets, elegant squares and sturdy walls.

We explore Luža Square, the Rector’s Palace, and the Franciscan Monastery, with its centuries-old pharmacy. Afterwards, the afternoon is yours. Take the cable car to Mount Srđ for sweeping coastal views, or pause for a drink under the stone arcades. Late afternoon, we head to the quiet hills of Konavle or the coastal village of Cavtat for a relaxed wine tasting, framed by vineyards and olive groves.

Highlights:

  • Guided walking tour of Dubrovnik: Luža Square, Rector’s Palace, Franciscan Monastery
  • Optional cable car ride to Mount Srđ for panoramic coastal views
  • Wine tasting in Konavle or Cavtat amidst vineyards and olive groves

A full-day cruise carries us to the Elaphiti Islands of Šipan, Koločep and Lopud. These car-free islands are known for their pine forests, stone houses, and quiet walking trails. There’s time to swim, explore small harbours, or simply relax as a fresh seafood lunch is served on deck.

Returning to Dubrovnik, there’s time for a relaxed evening, whether over dinner or a quiet stroll through the old town.

Highlights:

  • Full-day cruise to Šipan, Koločep, and Lopud
  • Time to swim, explore harbours, or relax on deck

Travelling north, we pause in the Neretva Delta, a patchwork of lagoons and channels shaped by the river. Aboard traditional trupica boats, we glide past fields of mandarins and reeds before enjoying a tasting of local spirits and seasonal fruit.

By late afternoon, we arrive in Split, where the old town’s Roman heart and lively waterfront invite an evening wander.

Highlight:

  • Explore the Neretva Delta aboard traditional trupica boats

We board a ferry to Hvar, one of Croatia’s sunniest islands, known for its Venetian architecture and fields of lavender. Landing at Stari Grad, we travel across the island to Hvar Town, visiting its hilltop fortress and 17th-century theatre.

There’s time to wander cobbled streets lined with boutiques and stone façades before we ferry back to Split in the late afternoon. Dinner is relaxed, perhaps with sea bass or pasta with truffles, specialities of the Dalmatian coast.

 

 

Highlights:

  • Ferry to Hvar and visit Stari Grad and Hvar Town
  • Explore hilltop fortress, 17th-century theatre, and cobbled streets

We make a short stop in the island-town of Trogir, with its Romanesque churches and the Cathedral of St. Lawrence, known for its elaborately carved portal. Continuing inland, we arrive at Krka National Park, where wooden walkways take us past Skradinski Buk, a series of cascading waterfalls surrounded by emerald pools.

By evening, we arrive in Zadar, an underrated gem on the Adriatic, where we stay near the sea and hear the melodic sounds of the Sea Organ as the sun sets.

Highlights:

  • Stop in Trogir to see Romanesque churches and Cathedral of St. Lawrence
  • Walk wooden paths past Skradinski Buk waterfalls in Krka National Park

Leaving the coast, we travel inland to Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with 16 turquoise lakes connected by waterfalls and walkways.

We take time to walk through the park’s lush paths and dramatic viewpoints, listening to the sound of water rushing over travertine terraces. The experience is peaceful and immersive: a full day devoted to nature.

Highlights:

  • Full day at Plitvice Lakes National Park, UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Walk paths linking 16 turquoise lakes and cascading waterfalls

We continue to the Istrian Peninsula, where Pula welcomes us with its Roman amphitheatre, one of the best-preserved in the world. Walking through its ancient stone corridors, you can imagine the performances that once brought crowds to their feet.

In the afternoon, we arrive in Rovinj, where pastel-coloured houses rise from the harbour and narrow streets lead to the Church of St. Euphemia. Later, we end the day with a tasting of Istrian wines among the region’s gentle hills.

 

Highlights:

  • Explore Roman amphitheatre and historical sites in Pula
  • Wander the colourful, cobbled streets and waterfront of Rovinj

We cross into Slovenia and descend into Postojna Cave, a vast karst network with dramatic rock formations, underground rivers, and cathedral-sized halls. A short electric train takes us deep into the cave system, followed by a guided walk.

By afternoon, we arrive in Ljubljana, where café-lined riverbanks, tree-shaded squares and Art Nouveau façades invite an evening wander.

 

Highlight:

  • Guided tour of Postojna Cave in Slovenia via electric train and walking paths

We travel to Lake Bled, its glassy waters encircling a tiny island topped with a church. A traditional pletna boat carries us across, and those who wish may climb the 99 steps to ring the bell of the Pilgrimage Church of the Assumption.

Later, enjoy free time to walk the lakeshore or try Bled’s famous cream cake. Back in Ljubljana, we share a farewell dinner, a time to pause, connect and mark the end of our journey together.

 

Highlights:

  • Boat ride across Lake Bled to the island church
  • Optional climb of 99 steps to ring the Pilgrimage Church bell

There’s time for a slow breakfast or a last coffee before our transfer to the airport. With passports stamped and luggage packed, we set out for home, bringing with us the spontaneous moments of joy, stories, and places that have emerged over the last several days.

We land in Johannesburg and return to familiar skies. While the journey is complete, the moments; a quiet cove, a shared table, a view from the fortress—remain.

Experience the vibrance of Croatia & Slovenia Explorer

The journey begins with an anticipated flight from Johannesburg to the Old Town of Dubrovnik, where we explore the pearl of the Adriatic, enjoy local wine tasting, and sail through the crystal-clear Adriatic waters to Elaphiti Islands. From there, we continue to the vibrant city of Split, experience the island paradise of Hvar, and explore the stunning waterfalls of Krka National Park. We explore the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes, a world-renowned wonderland of waterfalls. Next, we head to Opatija to visit the Roman amphitheatre in Pula and savour some Istrian wine. After crossing into Slovenia, we visit the magnificent Postojna Cave, Lake Bled and Ljubljana before flying home with cherished memories of Croatia’s beauty and culture.

 

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FAQs

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The tour leader collects a set amount from each member of a tour. This kitty is then used to tip the local tour guide and city guides, bus drivers, any other assistants, and restaurant staff. We believe in tipping for good service as a token of appreciation, especially as many workers in tourism rely on tips to supplement their income.

Although we cannot apply on your behalf, we are more than willing to give guidance and assistance with completing forms. We do this for many clients on a near-daily basis. It does, however, remain the responsibility of the client to ensure that they get the correct visa on time.

Remember that we limit the number of guests on our tours. This means more time at stops and sites. We definitely do not do groups of 30 pax, where guests are rushed from one site to the other. There is enough time to explore on your own.

We always suggest USD/Euro 50 to USD/Euro 100 per person per day. As we mostly include two meals per day on our tours, this will be enough for lunch/dinner, some snacks, and memento shopping. Should you want to buy larger items, we suggest taking along your credit card. Remember to advise the bank that you will be travelling.

Once you have completed the form, you will receive an email with the itinerary which includes pricing, inclusions and flight options.

You can contact us at info@seagulltours.co.za or +27 42 296 0475