Emerald Lakes & Island Hopping: The Ultimate Adriatic Coast & Cruise
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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
Rovinj
Plitvice
Split
Croatia Cruise
package excludes:
- Flights from and to your home country.
- 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
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 destination-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.3 Nights in Ljubljana
3 Nights 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 accommodation. Duration of the drive is about 30 minutes.
Castle Views and a Lovely Dinner
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!
Day 2
Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Ljubljana
Ljubljana Private Walking Tour
Ljubljana enchants visitors with its charm, pedestrian-friendly Old Town, and captivating blend of culture, legends, and architecture. A guided tour reveals its medieval roots, baroque and Secession designs. By journey’s end, you’ll understand why Ljubljana lives up to its name.
Mix with the Locals
Today we suggest going undercover and becoming a Ljubljancan/Ljubljancanka 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.
Day 3
Day 3 - Your Second Full Day in Ljubljana
Bled and Vintgar Gorge Private Day Trip
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.
Day 4
Day 4 - Traveling to Rovinj by Private Car
A morning start is recommended for your trip to Rovinj as there are some fascinating stops along the way. A private van and driver will pick you up from your accommodations. About halfway to Rovinj, we suggest touring the Postojna caves as well as visiting the nearby Predjama Castle. Built into the side of a cliff, it is a marvel. Entrances for the cave and castle are not included and need to be bought at the site. We will include these stops on your itinerary which means you'll probably arrive in Rovinj in the late afternoon, just in time to check in to your accommodations. The duration of the journey, stops included, is about 6 hours. Please note that this is a non guided transfer with a local English-speaking driver.
2 Nights in Rovinj
2 Nights in Rovinj
2 Nights in Rovinj
Rovinj used to go by Rovigno, and to Italian-speakers it still does. This city was once part of the Republic of Venice, which is evident from the street names in Italian to the Venetian architectural flourishes, such as the bell tower that crowns the town. This laid-back spot has a full cultural calendar, with numerous festivals taking place in the warmer months. We’ll help you get to know the local culture, with possible activities like a local wine tasting, a fish cooking masterclass with a local chef, or a truffle hunting adventure in nearby Croatia. Then, to work up an appetite for your next delicious meal, you could rent bikes and cruise through the breathtaking Zlatni Rt Park. You’ll definitely want to visit the local market too. History buffs will love visiting the local cultural heritage museum, which gives great insight into the region. When you’re ready to get in the car, a day trip to Pula is always fun. This busy port town hosts a large market packed with delectable local specialities, and also boasts a Roman amphitheater. You could even arrange a full-day private tour through the gorgeous region of Istria, where more delights await you inland.
Rovinj used to go by Rovigno, and to Italian-speakers it still does. This city was once part of the Republic of Venice, which is evident from the street names in Italian to the Venetian architectural flourishes, such as the bell tower that crowns the town. This laid-back spot has a full cultural calendar, with numerous festivals taking place in the warmer months. We’ll help you get to know the local culture, with possible activities like a local wine tasting, a fish cooking masterclass with a local chef, or a truffle hunting adventure in nearby Croatia. Then, to work up an appetite for your next delicious meal, you could rent bikes and cruise through the breathtaking Zlatni Rt Park. You’ll definitely want to visit the local market too. History buffs will love visiting the local cultural heritage museum, which gives great insight into the region. When you’re ready to get in the car, a day trip to Pula is always fun. This busy port town hosts a large market packed with delectable local specialities, and also boasts a Roman amphitheater. You could even arrange a full-day private tour through the gorgeous region of Istria, where more delights await you inland.
Day 4
Day 4 - Arrival in Rovinj
Your driver will take you directly to your accommodation when you arrive in Rovinj.
Local Flavors
Day 5
Day 5 - Your First Full Day in Rovinj
Istria Private Tour
Explore the Istrian Peninsula on a private, tailor-made tour featuring hilltop towns, ancient ports, and hidden villages with Tuscany-like landscapes, vineyards, and truffles. Focus on medieval history, legends, or off-the-beaten-path charm as your guide curates each stop to your interests!
Day 6
Day 6 - Traveling to Plitvice by Private Car
Today you are off to see the amazing natural wonder of Plitvice National Park. We'll arrange for a private van to pick you up for the beautiful drive ahead of you. Be sure to soak up the views along Kvarner Bay, and there's also the possibility to stop for lunch in the coastal resort town of Opatija, once the seaside retreat of Habsburg-era nobility. The duration of the journey is about 3 hours. Please note that this is a non guided transfer with a local English-speaking driver.
1 Night in Plitvice
1 Night in Plitvice
1 Night in Plitvice
The Plitvice Lakes are one of the most beautiful natural settings in Croatia. The national park has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979 and it’s easy to see why. You’ll find 16 lakes here in a stunning array of colors. Surrounding the lakes for 200 miles, the park has numerous hiking trails and plenty of places to appreciate the scenery. The lakes and waterfalls themselves stretch across five miles. This is nature at its most untouched!
The Plitvice Lakes are one of the most beautiful natural settings in Croatia. The national park has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979 and it’s easy to see why. You’ll find 16 lakes here in a stunning array of colors. Surrounding the lakes for 200 miles, the park has numerous hiking trails and plenty of places to appreciate the scenery. The lakes and waterfalls themselves stretch across five miles. This is nature at its most untouched!
Day 6
Day 6 - Arrival in Plitvice
The driver will take you to your accommodations and after the check-in, you can spend the afternoon exploring this magnificent park. Please note that the driver service is booked until the arrival to your hotel, and does not apply to transfer to the park entrance after the check-in.
Day 7
Day 7 - Traveling to Split by Private Car
1 Night in Split
1 Night in Split
1 Night in Split
The Roman Emperor Diocletian made Split his home in the 4th Century AD, building a vast palace complex on the waterfront that stands to this day. In fact several of the accommodation options we offer in Split are nestled inside its ancient walls. These days there is an embankment in front of Diocletian's palace but the water used to go right up to the main wall. It's on this man-made strip of land that you'll find the Riva, a pedestrian promenade bustling with life. Split's UNESCO listed Old Town is contained within these old walls and is a pedestrian-only maze that it is quite easy, but fun, to get lost in. Who know what romantic hidden cafés you might find in one of the narrow streets and alleyways? To get the best out of your time in Split, however, we recommend taking a tour with a local guide. Split is very well connected for flights, with an international airport a half hour drive away and is a popular stopping point for our guests on their way between Dubrovnik and the islands of Hvar, Vis, or Korcula, all easily reached by a ferry from Split's port. If you base yourself in Split for a few days, you will find it is also perfect located for visits to some of Croatia's most stunning national parks.
The Roman Emperor Diocletian made Split his home in the 4th Century AD, building a vast palace complex on the waterfront that stands to this day. In fact several of the accommodation options we offer in Split are nestled inside its ancient walls. These days there is an embankment in front of Diocletian's palace but the water used to go right up to the main wall. It's on this man-made strip of land that you'll find the Riva, a pedestrian promenade bustling with life. Split's UNESCO listed Old Town is contained within these old walls and is a pedestrian-only maze that it is quite easy, but fun, to get lost in. Who know what romantic hidden cafés you might find in one of the narrow streets and alleyways? To get the best out of your time in Split, however, we recommend taking a tour with a local guide. Split is very well connected for flights, with an international airport a half hour drive away and is a popular stopping point for our guests on their way between Dubrovnik and the islands of Hvar, Vis, or Korcula, all easily reached by a ferry from Split's port. If you base yourself in Split for a few days, you will find it is also perfect located for visits to some of Croatia's most stunning national parks.
Day 7
Day 7 - Arrival in Split
Your driver will bring you straight to your accommodations upon arrival in Split.
Chef's Table Private Food Experience
Taste five different traditional Pikuleca dishes (depending on the season, these tapas include marinated white fish, cuttlefish eggs, wild asparagus with octopus, and more) paired with two glasses of Croatian wine, and water. This is an interactive dinner, with the chef cooking in front of you in an open kitchen, so you can chat as you watch and eat. Even though the restaurant is open for other people, the chef will prioritize your meal.
Day 8
Day 8 - Traveling to Croatia Cruise
7 Nights in Croatia Cruise
7 Nights in Croatia Cruise
7 Nights in Croatia Cruise
Day 8
Day 8 - Arrival in Croatia Cruise
We will arrange for a driver to pick you up from your accommodation in Split and take you to Trogir where you'll start your cruise. The journey should take about 30 minutes.
7 Night Croatia Cruise (Deluxe Superior)
The perfect way to fully experience the Croatian islands and coastline is by sailing on an intimate luxury mini cruiser. Enjoy unhurried mornings on spacious decks or swimming in the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea, followed by evenings discovering charming historic coastal towns. This one-way cruise toward Dubrovnik reveals the very best of the Southern Dalmatian islands, with a curated selection of additional services, along with included wine and gourmet experiences as part of the package.
Cruise Day 1/7: Trogir
Check-in from 14:00 onwards. Early afternoon transfer to Trogir for guided walking tour. Enjoy time at leisure of this UNESCO-listed town, exploring its medieval streets, the Cathedral of St. Lawrence, and the Kamerlengo Fortress. Return to the ship for a dinner on board and a welcome meet & greet cocktail reception on board.
Day 9
Day 9 - Your First Full Day in Croatia Cruise
Cruise Day 2/7: Bol, Vis & Komiza
Early morning departure towards the island of Brač and the town of Bol, best known for Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn), Croatia’s most iconic beach. This natural phenomenon shifts its shape with the wind and waves, making it different every time you see it. Continue to the island of Vis, once a strategic Yugoslav naval base that remained closed to the public for decades. Thanks to that isolation, the island kept its authenticity, often described as “the Mediterranean as it once was.” Today, it’s valued for exactly that. Your overnight stay will be in Vis or Komiža (depending on berth availability). Both towns sit near the remains of ancient Issa, the first urban center in Croatia, and each has its own distinct charm. Explore the waterfront, visit the Roman Thermal Baths or the City Museum, or simply enjoy the slow rhythm of island life.In the late afternoon, sample local wines during a tasting at a winery before settling in for the night. Dinner not included.
Day 10
Day 10 - Your Second Full Day in Croatia Cruise
Cruise Day 3/7: Bisevo (Blue Cave) & Hvar
Early morning cruise towards the small island Biševo to visit the Blue Cave, a magnificent natural phenomenon (entrance to be paid on the spot). As sometimes weather conditions can be very unpredictable, the possibility of a cave visit will depend on those conditions; however, you will be notified in time. Continue towards the jet-set island of Hvar with lunch on board at the Pakleni Islands. Hvar is the longest and sunniest island in theAdriatic, known for lush lavender fields and breathtaking beauty. Arrive in the afternoon for a guided tour of the town’s historical landmarks-the Renaissance cathedral with itsoriginal tower, and the oldest community theatre in Europe, founded in 1612. Hike up the zig-zag path to the town fort overlooking the harbour for lovely scenic views of the villageand the Pakleni islands. In the evening, Hvar offers a great choice of entertainment-numerous restaurants, bars, and clubs with many open long into the night. Dinner not included. Overnight in the port.
Day 11
Day 11 - Your Third Full Day in Croatia Cruise
Cruise Day 4/7: Korcula
Early morning departure towards the island of Korčula, best known as the birthplace of Marco Polo. Stop for lunch in one of the secluded bays en route. Afternoon arrival in Korčula followed by a guided walking tour of this enchanting town surrounded by walls and one of the best-preserved medieval cities in the Mediterranean.
Day 12
Day 12 - Your Fourth Full Day in Croatia Cruise
Cruise Day 5/7: Mljet National Park
The next morning, head further south to the Island of Mljet. The legend says Greek heroOdysseus spent years on this island when he was captured by the nymph Calypso. Join the cruise manager for a stroll to the famous salt lakes in the Mljet National Parkand enjoy the boat ride to St. Mary Isle to visit an ancient Benedictine monastery, an old abbey and a Church dating back to the 12th Century. Alternatively, rent kayaks, bicycles, scooters or convertible cars to roam around the National Park or island on your own, but beware of the nymphs! Enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the island.In the evening, get ready for the Captain’s dinner with live entertainment onboard. Overnight in port Polača or Pomena.
Day 13
Day 13 - Your Fifth Full Day in Croatia Cruise
Cruise Day 6/7: Slano
Departure towards the small village of Slano on the mainland, a peaceful fishermen's village and the starting point for Ston, another, once fortified village, famous for its oysters. Swim stop along the route. Upon arrival and after exploring the town’s vast medieval ramparts, head for a nearby Mali Ston to learn about oysters and taste this special delicacy. Transfer back to the vessel. Time at leisure and overnight in Slano. Dinner not included.
Day 14
Day 14 - Your Sixth Full Day in Croatia Cruise
Cruise Day 7/7: Dubrovnik
Early morning departure to Dubrovnik, one of the world's most beautifully preserved medieval cities. Before tied up at the Gruž harbour, enjoy a cruise alongside the old Dubrovnik city walls while lunch is served on deck. After docking, transfer to the old town for the guided walking tour of this magical town. Take the cable car from the Old Town to Srđ mountain to enjoy scenic views of the Walls and the Elaphiti Islands. Meander through the narrow streets, exploring the Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture or walk on top of the 1940 m long city walls (optional). Overnight in Dubrovnik
Day 15
Day 15 - Departure Day
A driver will pick you up and drop you off at the airport for your departing flight. Duration of the drive is about 30 minutes.
Glowing Reviews from Our Guests
Average of our Guest's Ratings of tour packages including these destinations
I’ve become a big fan of Jay Way. I have already recommended them to others and plan on using them again in the future if the opportunity arises
– Neal & Josefina, Maryland
Visited : Montenegro, Croatia, Slovenia
Itinerary : Kotor, Dubrovnik, Korcula, Hvar, Split, Zadar, Plitvice, Zagreb, Ljubljana, Bled
Rating :
We can't say enough about JayWay. They took the worry and hassle away for us. We loved that we were not part of a large tour group and had time to ourselves. Great job, all of you!
– Sally & Daryl, Washington
Visited : Croatia
Itinerary : Zagreb, Rovinj, Plitvice, Split, Hvar, Dubrovnik, Zagreb
Rating :
Jayway was so easy to work with as they listened to our requests and provided great insights and recommendations. Our destination expert was such pleasure to work with! I would recommend using them over and over again!
– Kevin & Lindsay, Wisconsin
Visited : Slovenia, Croatia
Itinerary : Ljubljana, Rovinj, Plitvice, Split, Dubrovnik
Rating :