⁍ Journeys ◦ Europe ◦ Croatia ◦ Slovenia ◦ Nature ◦ Culture ◦ Beach ◦ Gastronomy ◦ Family ◦ Couples ◦ Rental Car
Highlights
Slovenia & Croatia: two countries, countless hidden gems.
✓ Combine two beautiful countries rich in nature, culture, and cuisine on this unique fly-and-drive tour.
✓ Go underground in the Postojna Caves and discover castles that seem to grow out of the rock walls.
✓ Experience Istria at its best: truffles, wines, and charming coastal towns with a Venetian flair.
✓ A pleasant pace of travel, with an ideal balance between time spent in nature and time to enjoy wellness activities.
Luxury Tour of Slovenia & Croatia
From surprising cities to azure-blue bays, from alpine meadows to hidden truffle forests: this trip lets you experience Slovenia and Croatia in all their contrasts.
You’ll start in the Julian Alps, where emerald-green rivers, crystal-clear lakes, and spectacular mountain landscapes beckon you to embark on an adventure. Next, you’ll discover Ljubljana, a vibrant yet charming capital city full of cozy outdoor cafes, boutiques, and culinary surprises. In Istria, the mountains give way to rolling vineyards, medieval hilltop villages, and the azure-blue Adriatic Sea. Along the way, you’ll alternate between impressive natural scenery and cultural discoveries, refined cuisine, and delightful wellness experiences. Accommodations full of character and carefully curated experiences give this tour a special touch. A versatile road trip for couples and families who love to explore, enjoy themselves, and let themselves be surprised along the way. This combination of countries has a lot more to offer than you might think.
Itinerary
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Your road trip begins in the Julian Alps, where the mountain peaks rise high above green valleys and crystal-clear lakes. In your rental car, you’ll drive toward Kranjska Gora, a charming mountain village on the edge of Triglav National Park. Along the way, you’ll get your first glimpse of Slovenia’s impressive natural beauty. Once you arrive, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the area, take a walk along the picturesque Lake Jasna, or enjoy the amenities at your lodging.
Over the next few days, you’ll discover the most beautiful spots in Triglav National Park. Follow winding mountain roads past spectacular viewpoints, admire the emerald-green waters of the Soča River, and take a trip across the impressive Vršič Pass, Slovenia’s highest mountain pass. There’s also plenty to do on foot. Choose a leisurely walk past mountain lakes and waterfalls, or head deeper into the mountains for an adventurous hike. Looking for a little more action? Go rafting or kayaking on the Soča River, discover hidden gorges on a canyoning adventure, or explore the mountain trails on a mountain bike.
Want to enjoy the mountains a little longer? Extend your trip with two extra nights near the Logar Valley, east of Triglav National Park, close to the Austrian border. Here, you’ll stay at the charming Hotel Plesnik, where you can enjoy views of the impressive mountain landscape from the wellness center, or at the stylish Vila Planinka, a unique retreat surrounded by nature. A wonderful extension for those who want to discover even more of the Slovenian Alps.
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You’ll leave the imposing peaks of the Julian Alps behind and drive your rental car toward Ljubljana. Along the way, a stop at the famous Lake Bled is a must. With its emerald-green waters, small island with a little church, and medieval castle perched high on the cliffs, this is one of Slovenia’s most photogenic spots. Take a walk along the lake, take a traditional wooden pletna boat to the island, or enjoy a coffee with a slice of the famous Bled cream cake.
Next, you’ll travel on to Ljubljana, the charming Slovenian capital that’s sure to surprise you right away. During a private walking tour with a local guide, you’ll discover the quaint streets, elegant bridges, and colorful facades along the Ljubljanica River. Admire the iconic Dragon Bridge, stroll through the lively Prešeren Square, and discover the stories behind the city’s unique architecture. The rest of the day is entirely up to you. Browse through small boutiques, enjoy an aperitif at one of the many waterfront terraces, or reserve a table at one of the excellent restaurants. Ljubljana has a surprisingly strong culinary reputation and is the ideal place to get acquainted with modern Slovenian cuisine.
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You’ll leave Slovenia behind and cross the Croatian border toward Istria, a peninsula where Mediterranean charm and delicious cuisine go hand in hand. Over the next four nights, you’ll have plenty of time to explore both the lush inland region and the stunning Adriatic coast. Stroll through the narrow streets of the artists’ village of Grožnjan, admire the views from medieval Motovun, or enjoy a leisurely lunch on a cozy terrace.
Istria also has a lot to offer in terms of cuisine. Accompanied by a local truffle expert and his specially trained dogs, you’ll head into the woods in search of the region’s “black gold.” Afterward, you’ll taste for yourself why this delicacy is so beloved. A visit to the prestigious Meneghetti winery is also a must. Here, during a refined wine tasting, you’ll discover the distinctive Istrian wines, surrounded by vineyards and olive trees.
Be sure to set aside a day for the Adriatic coast. Discover the Roman history of Pula on a guided tour, with its impressive amphitheater as the absolute highlight. Or explore the picturesque coastline on a private boat tour, stopping along the way at hidden coves and charming coastal towns. Rovinj, with its colorful houses and lively harbor, is also definitely worth a visit. End your days with an aperitif at sunset and a delicious dinner featuring fresh fish and local specialties.
Practical Information
Duration 8 days, 7 nights
Indicative price €4.500 per person
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This estimated price is subject to change at any time. The estimated price includes a rental car and accommodations but does not include flights. With Pegase Tailored, we bring your travel dreams to life, fully tailored to your wishes. No one-size-fits-all package—just a unique trip that lets you discover the world on your own terms.Best time to visit
Our highlight from the trip
“From the crisp mountain air in Triglav to a long lunch on the Istrian coast: it’s precisely that contrast—just a three-hour drive away—that makes this trip so wonderful.”
Emilia Pycke, Luxury Travel Advisor
Featured hotels
Chalet Sofija, Triglav
Chalet Sofija is nestled on a mountainside near Kranjska Gora, offering spectacular views of the Julian Alps. This exclusive mountain retreat features just five luxurious suites and combines contemporary design with a warm, personal welcome. Special attention is given to the culinary experience here, while the stylish wellness area, with its panoramic mountain views, invites guests to unwind after a day spent in nature.
Zlata Ladjica, Ljubljana
Zlata Ladjica is an exclusive five-star boutique hotel in the historic heart of Ljubljana, on the banks of the Ljubljanica River. The carefully restored 16th-century building features just 15 uniquely decorated rooms, each inspired by a piece of the city’s history. An intimate private sauna, personalized service, and free bicycles make this a special place right in the heart of the city.
Meneghetti Wine Hotel, Istria
Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery, a Relais & Châteaux hotel, is situated on a sprawling estate among vineyards and olive groves in the Istrian hinterland, between Pula and Rovinj. The property combines fine dining, wellness, and wine experiences in an intimate setting.
Featured experiences
Truffle Hunting in the Istrian Forests
Accompanied by an experienced truffle hunter and a trained dog, you’ll head out into nature for a private truffle hunt. Afterward, you’ll sit down to lunch, where the fresh truffle takes center stage.
Visit to Predjama Castle
Discover the impressive Predjama Castle, spectacularly built against a 123-meter-high cliff face. During your visit, you’ll wander through centuries-old rooms and secret passageways and discover the fascinating stories about the legendary knight Erasmus, who took refuge here centuries ago.
Panoramic Drive Through Triglav National Park
As you drive through the spectacular hairpin turns of the Vršič Pass, you’ll pass imposing mountain peaks, green valleys, and the emerald-green Soča River. Along the way, you’ll stop at the most beautiful viewpoints and one of the oldest farms in the region.
Discover even more travel experiences
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Experience Madeira in style: luxurious quintas, refined cuisine, and landscapes that surprise you anew every day.
The Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express
Step aboard this iconic train journey through Europe, featuring lavishly decorated cars and gourmet dinners.
