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Active Exploration of Slovenia & Northern Italy

10 Days / 9 Nights

Ljubljana, Cortina d'Ampezzo, Venice

Travel and LeisureFodorsUSA TodayNew York TimesNational GeographicWashington PostVogue

Few itineraries can be as unique as this 10-day quest to uncover the charms of Slovenia and Northern Italy. Your journey starts in Ljubljana, Slovenia's scenic capital that seems as though it has sprung out of the pages of a storybook. From strolling through the city's mighty castle to joining a day trip to the magical world of Lake Bled, Slovenia will make you fall in love with its beauty before you continue to Northern Italy, and more specifically, the majestic Dolomites. You'll overnight in Cortina d'Ampezzo, a quaint town, but also the perfect gateway to the area's spectacular landscapes. Your final stop will have you pinch yourselves to make sure you're not dreaming. The fairest of them all, Venice, awaits to seduce you with a private gondola ride, but also to show you its most authentic side as you mingle with locals over delicious street food or a walk around the famous Rialto Market.

One of our team members in Italy will be available to answer any questions and arrange local services leading up to and during your trip. You will receive access to your Guest Page, with its information on the best these two countries offer, including things to see and do, and other inside tips from restaurant recommendations to tipping advice. Upon request, we will provide you with an eSIM with data you can use throughout your trip to reach your local JayWay contact, whom you will meet in person. In all our destinations, we offer a variety of memorable 3- to 5-star accommodation options, including boutique hotels and charming B&Bs. With our firsthand experience, we can ensure they are all clean, comfortable, and centrally located, with a local ambiance.

Route for Ljubljana, Cortina d'Ampezzo, Venice tour

3 Nights in Ljubljana

3 Nights in Ljubljana

4 days in Ljubljana
4 days in Ljubljana

3 Nights in Ljubljana

Ljubljana enjoys a central position, making it the ideal base for exploring the rest of Slovenia. It is a crossroads culturally due to its location. On one hand, you can see its Central European influences, because of its time within the Austro-Hungarian empire, in the city's architecture and language. On the other hand there is a strong Mediterranean and Balkan influence which is brought out in their laid back approach and the city's café culture. People are often surprised how westernized and advanced Slovenia is putting it more in a class with its Austrian neighbors than its Eastern European and Balkan counterparts. The surrounding areas of the city are packed with natural beauty and cultural sights bearing witness to the city's dynamic history. There is diverse range of places to satisfy culinary desires as the local cuisine is also heavily influenced by its neighbors in all directions. Wine lovers will find Slovenia to be a hidden gem. One of the best ways we have found to get to know Ljubljana and Slovenian cuisine at the same time is on a food tour, which will take you on a gastronomic tour of the whole country while walking around the center. The city layout is tourist friendly as the Old Town has an ever expanding pedestrian zone and a great way to see Ljubljana is by bike taking advantage of the numerous bike lanes spread out across the city.

Ljubljana enjoys a central position, making it the ideal base for exploring the rest of Slovenia. It is a crossroads culturally due to its location. On one hand, you can see its Central European influences, because of its time within the Austro-Hungarian empire, in the city's architecture and language. On the other hand there is a strong Mediterranean and Balkan influence which is brought out in their laid back approach and the city's café culture. People are often surprised how westernized and advanced Slovenia is putting it more in a class with its Austrian neighbors than its Eastern European and Balkan counterparts. The surrounding areas of the city are packed with natural beauty and cultural sights bearing witness to the city's dynamic history. There is diverse range of places to satisfy culinary desires as the local cuisine is also heavily influenced by its neighbors in all directions. Wine lovers will find Slovenia to be a hidden gem. One of the best ways we have found to get to know Ljubljana and Slovenian cuisine at the same time is on a food tour, which will take you on a gastronomic tour of the whole country while walking around the center. The city layout is tourist friendly as the Old Town has an ever expanding pedestrian zone and a great way to see Ljubljana is by bike taking advantage of the numerous bike lanes spread out across the city.

Day 1

Day 1 - Arrival in Ljubljana

When you arrive at Ljubljana's airport, you'll be greeted and taken to your centrally located accommodations. Duration of the drive is about 30 minutes.

Castle Views and a Lovely Dinner

Suggestion to explore on your own

Start your stay in Ljubljana by taking a funicular or a short walk to reach Ljubljana Castle, offering stunning views of the city below and the mountains beyond. Don't miss the museum, and if possible, catch a sunset from the castle grounds, especially the tower. End your day on a high note with dinner in one of the charming restaurants within the castle walls. We are confident that you'll go to bed feeling happy and in love with "the loved one," the literal translation of "Ljubljana." On the other hand, if you're still experiencing jet lag and seeking complete relaxation before your upcoming adventures, we recommend taking a short walk by the Ljubljanica River and having dinner at Julija Restaurant. Remember to make a reservation or let your local destination expert handle it for you; they will be delighted to assist!

Castle Views and a Lovely Dinner

Day 2

Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Ljubljana

Ljubljana Private Walking Tour

Ljubljana Private Walking Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

Ljubljana never fails to win over visitors with its charm and natural beauty. Most of the Old Town has been converted to a pedestrian-only zone, so it’s easy to explore the highlights on foot. Explore medieval Ljubljana, from its culture and unusual sites, to its stories and legends, with a local guide. You’ll discover its baroque and Secession architecture, along with the works of the architect Joze Plecnik. You’ll walk across the center's charming bridges and through the open market and enter the impressive cathedral. Your guide will take you through Old Town, and along the banks of the river Ljubljanica. Learn all about the legend of the city's origin and visit the main attractions. By the end of the tour, you'll understand how Ljubljana, "The Beloved One," earned its name.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 2 hours

The Vivid History of Ljubljana Castle

Suggestion to explore on your own

Today we recommend exploring one of the most striking parts of Ljubljana’s skyline: Ljubljana Castle. Set on a hill overlooking the entire city, the castle can be reached on foot or by funicular. You’ll find different guided tours that will provide a unique castle experience, or you can make discoveries on your own with the help of an audioguide. This is a great way to get a more in-depth picture of the rich story of Ljubljana’s founding. Ticket prices depend on the type of the tour and on the inclusion of the funicular ride. The view from the tower of the castle is a must-see. If you want to be treated like a king, go for a fine dining experience in the Strelec Restaurant, located in the castle's picturesque Shooters' Tower.

The Vivid History of Ljubljana Castle

Day 3

Day 3 - Your Second Full Day in Ljubljana

Bled and Vintgar Gorge Private Day Trip

Bled and Vintgar Gorge Private Day Trip

Included in your vacation package price.

This is the best way to discover Bled, one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia. Set around by an eponymous lake and surrounded by mountains, this town is a natural paradise. Your first stop will be Bled Castle, where you can try some nice Slovenian wines in a wine cellar. After the castle, you'll be driven down to the lake to go to the island on a traditional boat. Visit the stunning church on the island and the town's charming center, you'll walk through the scenic Vintgar Gorge.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 8 hours

Mix with the Locals

Suggestion to explore on your own

Today we suggest going undercover and becoming a Ljubljančan/Ljubljančanka for a day. Try to embrace as much of Ljubljana's atmosphere as possible and don’t worry about revealing yourself as a newbie. Start by venturing into Vodnik Square, where you’ll find an excellent central market with fresh fruits and vegetables, local specialties and crafts that make wonderful souvenirs. Around the corner from the market, find a bar at the riverbank to drink some coffee. It is obligatory in Ljubljana to drink at least two coffees a day. Once you’ve fed your bodies, it’s time to feed your soul, which is why we encourage you to discover great architecture all around you and get lost into the streets of Ljubljana.

Mix with the Locals

Day 4

Day 4 - Traveling to Cortina d'Ampezzo by Private Transfer

It’s time to leave the charming streets of Ljubljana behind and head into the heart of the Dolomites, where breathtaking alpine views and fresh mountain air await in Cortina d’Ampezzo. We’ve arranged a comfortable private transfer for you, offering a relaxed and scenic journey through northern Slovenia and into Italy. The drive typically takes around 4 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Your English-speaking driver will pick you up directly from your accommodation in Ljubljana and ensure a smooth and stress-free arrival in Cortina.

Cortina d'Ampezzo by Private Transfer
We also offer the following excursions in Ljubljana

Bled Fairytale Small Group Tour
Light5 hours 30 minutes
Bled Private Day Trip
Light6 hours
Communist Slovenia Private Tour
Light9 hours
Julian Alps and Soca Valley Private Day Trip
Moderate10 hours

3 Nights in Cortina d'Ampezzo

3 Nights in Cortina d'Ampezzo

4 days in Cortina d'Ampezzo
4 days in Cortina d'Ampezzo

3 Nights in Cortina d'Ampezzo

One of the best ski resorts in the world, Cortina d' Ampezzo is a picturesque town nestled in the embrace of the Dolomites. Cortina d' Ampezzo may attract skiing and snowboarding lovers during the winter months, but it's also very popular in the summer when weather conditions are ideal for hiking along the area's trails, savoring spectacular views along the way. No matter the season, what draws people to Cortina d' Ampezzo is the great outdoors. Yet, this doesn't mean that an active vacation is the only reason to visit Cortina d' Ampezzo. Home to fascinating local museums, family-run restaurants serving hearty local dishes, and a fair share of shops, Cortina d' Ampezzo appeals to all sorts of travelers.

One of the best ski resorts in the world, Cortina d' Ampezzo is a picturesque town nestled in the embrace of the Dolomites. Cortina d' Ampezzo may attract skiing and snowboarding lovers during the winter months, but it's also very popular in the summer when weather conditions are ideal for hiking along the area's trails, savoring spectacular views along the way. No matter the season, what draws people to Cortina d' Ampezzo is the great outdoors. Yet, this doesn't mean that an active vacation is the only reason to visit Cortina d' Ampezzo. Home to fascinating local museums, family-run restaurants serving hearty local dishes, and a fair share of shops, Cortina d' Ampezzo appeals to all sorts of travelers.

Day 4

Day 4 - Arrival in Cortina d'Ampezzo

Your driver will take you directly to your accommodation upon arrival in Cortina d'Ampezzo.

Alpine-Style Aperitif

Suggestion to explore on your own

Spend your first evening in Cortina soaking up the vibrant atmosphere at one of its lively bars, where locals and fellow travelers come together. The pre-dinner aperitif is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a refreshing Spritz, a glass of local wine, or a craft beer.


For an elegant setting, head to The Roof or the terrace at Ciasa Lorenzi, while La Suite offers a relaxed ambiance in the heart of the historic center. If you're in the mood for creative cocktails, Faro di Cortina is a must-visit. Many of these spots also serve light, informal dining, but if you’re looking for a full meal, you’ll find plenty of excellent restaurants just steps away.

Day 5

Day 5 - Your First Full Day in Cortina d'Ampezzo

Full Day Private Tour to Lakes of the Dolomites: Misurina, Antorno, Landro, Dobbiaco and Braies From Cortina

Full Day Private Tour to Lakes of the Dolomites: Misurina, Antorno, Landro, Dobbiaco and Braies

Included in your vacation package price.

Experience a moderately active hike amidst stunning natural surroundings and gaze upon your reflection mirrored in the pristine, crystal-clear waters of the five lakes nestled in the eastern Dolomites. The emerald hues of these UNESCO World Heritage sites are truly awe-inspiring and bound to render you speechless.


Activity Level : Moderate
Duration : 6 hours

Day 6

Day 6 - Your Second Full Day in Cortina d'Ampezzo

Full Day Route of Prosecco Private Tour from Cortina d'Ampezzo

Full Day Route of Prosecco Private Tour

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

Embark on a delectable journey through the exquisite realms of food and wine, where this immersive tour will lead you straight into the heart of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene, renowned for producing the finest prosecco wines in the Treviso province. Delve into the scenic landscapes and rich vineyards, indulging in the unique flavors and cultural heritage of this esteemed winemaking region. Discover the secrets behind the art of prosecco production while relishing the picturesque beauty that surrounds you.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 8 - 9 hours

Day 7

Day 7 - Traveling to Venice by Private Transfer

Today, you will leave Cortina d’Ampezzo and travel to Venice. A driver will pick you up at your accommodation based on your preferred departure time and take you on a two-and-a-half-hour journey. Please note this is a non-guided transfer.

Venice By Private Transfer
We also offer the following excursions in Cortina d'Ampezzo

Full Day Private Tour Heart of the Dolomites from Cortina d'Ampezzo
Light7 - 8 hours
Half Day Private Tour to Lake Misurina and Tre Cime di Lavaredo
Light4 hours
Lago Sorapis Private Hiking Tour
Moderate4-5 hours
Private Hiking Tour Through WW1 Tunnels
Moderate5-6 hours

3 Nights in Venice

3 Nights in Venice

4 days in Venice
4 days in Venice

3 Nights in Venice

Venice is a legendary city with a charm and atmosphere all its own. The city was constructed on more than 100 islands connected by a series of canals, most of which are lined with gorgeous palaces, beautiful churches, and all sorts of impressive architecture. While the city isn’t huge, it is packed with pedestrian-only streets and quaint, winding alleys that will keep you exploring for days. The city is very popular with tourists year-round, so you certainly won’t be the only travelers walking through the streets with camera in hand. This being Italy, the cuisine in Venice is delicious, and we can especially recommend the Cicchetti of Venice tour. Cicchetti are Venetian tapas, and this tour will introduce you to some of the city’s most iconic eateries and its most delicious recipes. If it’s your first time in Venice, we can organize a tour to show you all the most important sites. And since no trip to the city of canals is complete without a boat ride, we offer a number of ways for you to get a new point of view of the city and its magnificent architecture. It’s easy to while away your time in Venice, discovering new secrets around every corner.

Venice is a legendary city with a charm and atmosphere all its own. The city was constructed on more than 100 islands connected by a series of canals, most of which are lined with gorgeous palaces, beautiful churches, and all sorts of impressive architecture. While the city isn’t huge, it is packed with pedestrian-only streets and quaint, winding alleys that will keep you exploring for days. The city is very popular with tourists year-round, so you certainly won’t be the only travelers walking through the streets with camera in hand. This being Italy, the cuisine in Venice is delicious, and we can especially recommend the Cicchetti of Venice tour. Cicchetti are Venetian tapas, and this tour will introduce you to some of the city’s most iconic eateries and its most delicious recipes. If it’s your first time in Venice, we can organize a tour to show you all the most important sites. And since no trip to the city of canals is complete without a boat ride, we offer a number of ways for you to get a new point of view of the city and its magnificent architecture. It’s easy to while away your time in Venice, discovering new secrets around every corner.

Day 7

Day 7 - Arrival in Venice

Upon your arrival to Venice, the driver will drop you off at the Piazzale Roma. From there we will arrange a private water taxi to your hotel.

Welcome to Venice!

Suggestion to explore on your own

Enjoy Venice from the very start! Depending on your preference, this can be a relaxing or active time. After that, enjoy an aperitif with a view of the Grand Canal at Erbaria (Rialto), where there are many bars with outdoor seating. Finally, dinner in one of the many restaurants in the Rialto area will definitely make your first evening in Venice a perfect one. If you arrive full of energy and ready to explore, head to the Zattere area and enjoy a stroll along the canal up to Punta della Dogana, where you can admire the view of San Marco and the Grand Canal. The walk to Santa Maria della Salute church is pleasant, and you can take the traghetto (a big gondola) to cross the canal.

Welcome to Venice!

Day 8

Day 8 - Your First Full Day in Venice

Venice Land and Water Private Tour

Venice Land and Water Private Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

Venice is unique city, an entangled urban texture crossed by canals and located at the center of a huge expanse of shallow water. Venice has a double transit network, as you can walk or take a boat, resulting in two different ways of perceiving the city, its amazing architecture and daily life. This tour takes advantage of both. You'll start with a walk through the world famous locations of San Marco square and Rialto Bridge and market area. Then you'll board a boat to cruise through the canals with an expert local guide.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 3 hours

Private Gondola Ride

Private Gondola Ride

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

A gondola ride is a classic part of the Venetian experience. Your experienced gondolier will give you a new perspective on the city, coasting along the narrow canals that are synonymous with this magical place.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 30 minutes

Day 9

Day 9 - Your Second Full Day in Venice

Venice Street Food and Rialto Market Group Tour

Venice Street Food and Rialto Market Group Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

See Venice from a local's point of view! this tour explores the Santa Croce and Dorsoduro districts, areas normally less touched by the tourist crowds. This is a perfect chance to follow the same bar route that Venetians do after work, or during special celebrations. This tour's food tasting takes place in "Bacari," traditional bars that offer the best selection of local dishes and cicchetti (tapas), often containing delicious fish cooked in traditional yet creative ways. Every food sample is accompanied with a drink: a true Venetian experience calls for prosecco, wine, and grappa!


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 3 hours

Go Local in Venice

Suggestion to explore on your own

Want to go local in Venice? We suggest venturing into Cannaregio, the northernmost district in the city, which is notably less crowded by tourists. Within this area, you can admire impressive architecture, such as the Church of Santa Maria di Nazareth (Chiesa degli Scalzi), and explore the enchanting Jewish ghetto, recognized as the oldest in the world. Once you've acquainted yourself with Cannaregio, cross the renowned Rialto Bridge into the charming neighborhood of San Polo and delve into the Rialto Area. Although the Grand Canal attracts large crowds, the markets throughout this neighborhood offer a more authentic experience. If you explore the Rialto Market in the morning, you'll encounter fresh fruits, vegetables, and the fish market, along with unique local artisanal goods, perfect for distinctive souvenirs. If you go in the evening, be sure to partake in the Italian tradition of aperitivo, enjoy a glass of wine or a Venetian spritz (cocktail), accompanied by a selection of Cicchetti (tapas).

Explore Authentic Venice: Cannaregio, Rialto, and Local Delights Go Local in Venice

Day 10

Day 10 - Departure Day

It's time to bid arrivederci to Venice but you'll get a good last look at the city as your private water taxi captain takes you to the airport for your departing flight. Your private boat will dock at the closest possible point to your hotel.

We also offer the following excursions in Venice

Ancient Crafts & Artisans' Workshops Tour
Light3 hours
Authentic Murano Glass Factory Private Tour
Light2 hours
Cortina and Dolomites Private Day Trip
Moderate8 hours
Cortina and the Dolomites Small Group Day Trip
Moderate8 hours

What's Included

Here are all the services provided as part of your complete vacation package. See what every JayWay trip includes.
Please let us know if you'd like to upgrade any transfers or add any additional tours or excursions to your itinerary.

Ljubljana

3 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Ljubljana Airport Private Transfer
Ljubljana Private Walking Tour
Bled and Vintgar Gorge Private Day Trip
Ljubljana - Cortina d'Ampezzo Private Transfer

Cortina d'Ampezzo

3 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Full Day Private Tour to Lakes of the Dolomites: Misurina, Antorno, Landro, Dobbiaco and Braies
Cortina d'Ampezzo - Venice (Piazzale Roma) Private Transfer

Venice

3 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Venice Water Taxi Piazzale Roma Transfer
Venice Land and Water Private Tour
Venice Street Food and Rialto Market Group Tour
Venice Marco Polo Airport Transfer

package excludes:


  • Flights to and from Europe.
  • Tips for Tour Guides, Drivers and Local Reps.
  • Meals (other than breakfast if included in room rate and meals listed as included in food tours and excursions, unless explicitly stated otherwise).
  • Parking fees for your Rental Car (if you are booking one with us) unless otherwise indicated. Some hotels provide free parking facilities.
  • Travel Insurance. See the insurance link on our website
Benefits of Traveling with JayWay

A JayWay vacation is more than the sum of its parts. Our team work tirelessly to ensure your experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Your trip is personalized to maximize your enjoyment. You're taken care of every step of the way.

A Travel Advisor who speaks your language

We will make sure that all your requirements and interests are taken into account in preparing your itinerary.

A totally tailored itinerary for your vacation

Your trip is customized for you by  an experienced trip planner and an expert on the region.

A choice of hand-picked hotels and excursions

We've personally inspected and tested all the hotels and local tour providers we work with to ensure quality.

Detailed pre-trip preparation to make the most of every day

Your Europe-based Tour Manager will be in touch by email and phone a month before you arrive to finalize timings.

On-trip Concierge Service to smooth out any bumps in the road

Your tour manager is at your service throughout your journey. We'll provide a local SIM so you can stay connected.

Personalized Guest Page to make sure you're not missing out

Packed with detailed information and recommendations curated by locals on the best things to do, see and eat.
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