From the mirror-like waters of Lake Bled to the brilliant blues of Croatia’s Adriatic coastline; from the baroque buildings of Ljubljana to the Roman amphitheater of Pula, the neighbouring nations of Croatia and Slovenia combine to provide one enchanting journey. Take a guided tour through these two trending destinations and there are just six reasons to visit:
You can’t help but fall in love with these two countries, thanks to their extraordinary natural beauty. Visit the breath-taking Plitvice Lakes to admire cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear waters. Soak up the views over the stunning island of Hvar from its Venetian hilltop fortress. Marvel at the man-made wonder of Europe’s oldest salt pans surrounding the walled city of Ston.
The Croatian capital of Zagreb is packed with museums, galleries, cathedrals and park space, plus some of the friendliest people in Europe. It’s something of a crossroads between East and West, making it a culinary hot spot that’s filled to bursting with great restaurants and a thriving coffee culture. In Slovenia, Ljubljana is one of Europe’s smallest capital cities, renowned for its beautiful setting and amazing array of restaurants.
Pula Arena is a vast stone amphitheatre that was constructed by the Romans nearly two thousand years ago. It’s one of the largest and best-preserved Roman arenas anywhere, and one of many examples of ancient architecture that bring Croatian and Slovenian history to life. Marvel at a third-century Roman Emperor’s interpretation of a retirement home (Diocletian’s Palace in Split) and walk the streets of the Slovenian alpine village of Radovljica, where many of the houses date from the 15th and 16th centuries.
Every culinary moment is an insight into Croatian and Slovenian life. Soak up the stunning views of Lake Bled while enjoying a signature kremna rezina pastry or sample locally harvested white truffles in the Istrian town of Rovinj. Head to a traditional stone basement konoba to enjoy fresh seafood that’s been pulled from the sea that morning, and wash it down with a delicious Dalmatian wine. Add traditional live music and you’ll have an utterly authentic taste of Croatia.
Lovers of art and architecture will find plenty to enthrall them in both countries. The northern Croatian city of Rijeka has been named European Capital of Culture for 2020 by the European Union. The third-largest city in Croatia, it’s renowned for its art spaces, music venues and bars as well as Austro-Hungarian palaces, Venetian townhouses and baroque cathedral.
Whether it’s visiting a fifth-generation owned family farm near the shores of tranquil Lake Bled, or being entertained by local musicians at a traditional Slovenian inn, there are plenty of opportunities to interact with the locals.
A guided tour can deliver a taste of the best of Croatia and Slovenia, with expert local guides who will delight in sharing their in-depth knowledge with you. For an itinerary that’s packed with fascinating insights, talk to your personal travel manager today.