Eastern Capitals & the Dalmatian Riviera - Small Group
Eastern Capitals & the Dalmatian Riviera - Small Group
$5975
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating journey through Eastern Europe with the "Eastern Capitals & the Dalmatian Riviera - Small Group" tour. This immersive experience takes you through the heart of Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, offering a blend of cultural exploration and natural beauty. Discover the grandeur of Vienna's Schobrunn Palace, the charm of Ljubljana's Central Market, and the historic allure of Sarajevo's old town. Marvel at the stunning landscapes of Plitvice Lakes National Park and the ancient architecture of Split's Diocletian’s Palace. Enjoy authentic dining experiences, including a traditional Dalmatian dinner in Dubrovnik. With luxurious coach travel, expert local guides, and a focus on sustainable tourism, this tour promises an enriching adventure through some of Europe's most enchanting destinations. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Vienna
Location: Vienna
Accommodation Name: Hilton Vienna Park
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to beautiful Vienna. Enjoy your afternoon in the Austrian capital before meeting your Travel Director at a local restaurant for a pleasant evening of dinner.
Day 2: Exploring Stately Vienna
Location: Vienna
Accommodation Name: Hilton Vienna Park
Meals Included: Breakfast
Join a Local Expert for a private tour of Maria Theresa's Schönbrunn Palace and explore its formal gardens at your pace. Then get your camera ready for a drive around the famous Ring Road. Built along the lines of the old city walls, it showcases many of the capital's architectural highlights, including the Opera House, Hofburg Imperial Residence, the Austrian Parliament Building and Karlskirche. The rest of the day is at your leisure to continuing exploring. Perhaps join an optional evening to a Country Mansion to indulge in Classic Austrian dishes. And don't forget to experience a performance of the waltzes and classical music for which Vienna is world-renowned!
Day 3: Maribor and Ljubljana
Location: Maribor, Ljubljana
Accommodation Name: Lev Ljubljana
Meals Included: Breakfast
In the morning, cross the border into Slovenia and journey to its second largest city, Maribor. After spending time in this charming location, head to the beloved city of Ljubljana.
Day 4: Exploring Lovable Ljubljana Relaxed Start
Location: Ljubljana, Postojna
Accommodation Name: Lev Ljubljana
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Your Local Expert will reveal the Baroque elegance of the Slovenian capital. The medieval castle stands as an ancient guardian, the City Hall and Cathedral of St. Nicholas testify to its historical importance, while the Triple Bridge spans the river adorned with cafes and restaurants. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure. Perhaps join an Optional Experience to Postojna Caves? In the evening, choose from a hand-picked selection of local restaurants for your Dine-Around evening.
Day 5: Zagreb’s Twin Towns Relaxed Start
Location: Lake Bled, Zagreb
Accommodation Name: Sheraton Zagreb
Meals Included: Breakfast
Spend the morning in Slovenia during which you can join an optional visit to stunning lake Bled, or relax with locals in a nearby café before journeying into Croatia, where on arrival in Zagreb, you meet your Local Expert for an exploration of this capital. Take a walk to see the art Pavillion, the academy of Sciences and Art and pass Zrinjevac Park. We then board the city's funicular to St. Mark's Church and the Lotrščak Tower, take a walk back down through the Stone gate and back to the Square.
Day 6: Zagreb at Leisure Relaxed Start
Location: Zagreb
Accommodation Name: Sheraton Zagreb
Meals Included: Breakfast
A free day to relax and enjoy a city that is bursting with culture. Perhaps spend time exploring one of the many museums or browsing the shops in Donji Grad? Maybe try the local cuisine in one of Zagreb's interesting restaurants or cafes or join an optional experience to the charming village of Kumrovec and meet a local to hear their perspective on the region's history?
Day 7: On to Plitvice National Park Relaxed Start
Location: Plitvice Lakes National Park
Accommodation Name: Lyra, Ličko Petrovo Selo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Journey south to visit one of Europe's great natural wonders. Explore Plitvice with Insight Choice. Choose between two MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences: Join a Local Expert to explore Plitvice National Park and learn how the site actively carries out research to monitor the natural habitat of species. Alternatively, meet one of the women of the Tara Community Center, where handicrafts are produced, enabling employment and engagement in the community.
Day 8: Along the Dalmatian Coast
Location: Trogir, Split
Accommodation Name: President Solin, Split
Meals Included: Breakfast
The green forests give way to pebble-dashed shores lapped by turquoise waters as you travel to Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage site, a historic town founded by the Greeks more than 2,300 years ago. Admire the cathedral and Renaissance Cipiko Palace, before continuing to the historic port of Split. The Roman Emperor Diocletian built his palace here, and today it forms the heart of the Old Town of Split. With your Local Expert, explore the 1,700 year-old palace cellars, and learn the story of the infamous emperor. Continue through the labyrinthine streets and arcaded squares to see St. Duje's - originally Diocletian's Mausoleum, and the Temple of Jupiter, which today is a baptistery, as well as the Golden Gate. Your exploration then continues underground as you are guided through the cellars. In the evening, don't miss the opportunity to dine like a true local at a traditional Konoba.
Day 9: Exploring Split Relaxed Start
Location: Split
Accommodation Name: President Solin, Split
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Always buzzing, lively Split has just the right balance of tradition and modernity. See Dalmatian life as it’s lived with a full day free to explore Split and its surroundings. Why not join an optional experience to discover the beautiful Dalmatian island, Hvar? Explore the historic Old Town with your Local Expert before having free time to relax by the seafront or admire the stunning views from the hilltop fortress.
Day 10: Mostar to Sarajevo
Location: Mostar, Sarajevo
Accommodation Name: Europe, Sarajevo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
In the morning, cross the border into Bosnia & Herzegovina to Mostar. During your guided walking exploration with your Local Expert, see the famous Stari Most, or Old Bridge, reconstructed after being almost completely destroyed during the Croat–Bosniak War. The cobbled old town stretches on both sides of the bridge and is filled with shops selling Turkish-style souvenirs. Continue to Sarajevo, a town with a turbulent past - in 1914 it was the site of the assassination that sparked World War I and more recently, it endured the longest siege in modern military history. Follow the scenic route to Sarajevo for a unique and rewarding insight into the local way of life as you are invited into a Sarajevan family home for a dinner with drinks. Savor the warm hospitality and authentic cuisine as you hear inspirational stories about their culture and experience the local culture.
Day 11: Sarajevo, the City of Culture
Location: Sarajevo
Accommodation Name: Europe, Sarajevo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Morning sightseeing with a Local Expert introduces you to the Sarajevo War Tunnels Museum, housing part of the secret tunnel that was the city's lifeline during the Bosnian war. Continue along the Milajacka river and see the historic Hapsburg center of the city. In the afternoon, enjoy time at your leisure, or join an optional tour to experience the flavors of Bosnia and to visit the Latin Bridge where Austrian Crown Prince, Franz Ferdinand, was assassinated.
Day 12: On to Dubrovnik
Location: Dubrovnik
Accommodation Name: Royal Ariston, Dubrovnik
Meals Included: Breakfast
Cross the border into Croatia and journey to the walled town of Dubrovnik. On arrival, join your Local Expert to explore the stone-paved streets inside the 16th century bastions of the old town. See Onofrio's Fountain and the Rector's Palace and the Franciscan and Dominican monasteries.
Day 13: Optional Montenegro Experience Relaxed Start
Location: Dubrovnik
Accommodation Name: Royal Ariston, Dubrovnik
Meals Included: Breakfast
In the morning, why not visit Montenegro? This Optional Experience travels to Kotor, where your camera can capture one of the most beautiful parts of the bay as you learn the history of the area, before returning to Dubrovnik with a short cruise. As the day comes to a close, and should the weather permit, join your fellow travel companions as you sit back and enjoy a relaxing cruise around the fabled bay of Dubrovnik. Later, enjoy a Celebration Dinner of typical Dalmatian Coast cuisine, accompanied by local wines.
Day 14: Depart Dubrovnik
Location: Dubrovnik
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your journey comes to an end after breakfast.
What's Included
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Luxurious Coach Travel
Travel in style and comfort aboard Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom, ensuring a relaxing journey across the stunning landscapes of Eastern Europe.
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Personal Radio Headsets
Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
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Hotel and Restaurant Tips
Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
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Luggage Handling
We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
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Insight Flourish
From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
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Wi-Fi
Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
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Transfers
If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times.
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Well-being Measures
Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches. Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day. ...more ...less
What's Not Included
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Optional Experiences
Optional experiences such as visits to Postojna Caves, Lake Bled, and the Dalmatian island of Hvar are not included in the tour price.
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Flights
International and domestic flights are not included in the tour package.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style and comfort aboard Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom, ensuring a relaxing journey across the stunning landscapes of Eastern Europe.
Dining Summary
- 6 Dinner (D)
- 13 Breakfast (B)
Additional Included Highlights
- Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
- Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
- We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
- From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
- Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
- If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Well-being
- Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
- Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
Accommodation
Experience comfort and luxury at Hilton Vienna Park, Lev Ljubljana, Sheraton Zagreb, Lyra in Licko Petrovo Selo, President Solin in Split, Europe in Sarajevo, and Royal Ariston in Dubrovnik, offering a blend of modern amenities and local charm throughout your journey.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are offered at Plitvice Lakes National Park?
At Plitvice Lakes National Park, you can choose between two unique experiences. One option is to join a Local Expert to explore the park and learn about the ongoing research to monitor and protect the natural habitat, as well as education initiatives on the marine environment. Alternatively, you can meet the women of the Tara Community Center, where they produce handicrafts, providing them with financial and psychological support. ...more ...less
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What can I expect during the visit to Sarajevo?
In Sarajevo, you will visit the Sarajevo War Tunnels Museum, which houses part of the secret tunnel that was the city's lifeline during the Bosnian war. You will also see the historic Hapsburg center of the city and have the opportunity to join an optional tour to experience the flavors of Bosnia and visit the Latin Bridge, where Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated. ...more ...less
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What dining experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes several dining experiences such as a dinner with wine in Vienna, a Dine-Around evening in Ljubljana, and a typical Dalmatian dinner in Dubrovnik. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a dinner with a Sarajevan family, experiencing their warm hospitality and authentic cuisine. ...more ...less
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Are there any optional experiences available during the tour?
Yes, there are several optional experiences available during the tour. These include visits to Postojna Caves, Lake Bled, the Dalmatian island of Hvar, and a trip to Montenegro to visit Kotor. These experiences are not included in the tour price and can be added to enhance your journey. ...more ...less
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What is the significance of the visit to Mostar?
In Mostar, you will see the famous Stari Most, or Old Bridge, which was reconstructed after being almost completely destroyed during the Croat–Bosniak War. The cobbled old town stretches on both sides of the bridge and is filled with shops selling Turkish-style souvenirs, offering a glimpse into the town's rich history and cultural significance. ...more ...less
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
Reviews of this operator
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Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Eastern Capitals & the Dalmatian Riviera - Small Group
14 Days Starting in Vienna, Austria and ending in Dubrovnik, Croatia
Visiting: Vienna, Maribor, Ljubljana, Postojna, Lake Bled, Zagreb, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Trogir, Split, Mostar, Sarajevo, Dubrovnik ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
SE961N26
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
