Ancient Cultures of Greece & Croatia

Breakfast at the hotel. Today you’ll visit the striking rock formation, Meteora, an incredibly unique scenery with ageless Monasteries protruding from the rocks. These priceless historical and religious treasures stand between sky and earth on the top of the cliffs. An incredible sight to behold.

In the afternoon return to Athens via Trikala, Lamia, Thermopylae with a short stop to see Leonida's Monument. Arrive in Athens early in the evening and transfer to the hotel. Overnight stay in Athens.

Important notes: At Meteora, the terrain is quite uneven underfoot and you will be required to climb a number of stairs in order to visit the monasteries. It may not be suitable for those with reduced mobility. Modest dress is required to enter the monasteries of Meteora. This includes a long skirt (not trousers) and covered neckline/shoulders for women, and long trousers for men. 

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, set off on a sightseeing tour of the old town. Completed in the thirteenth century, the ancient city of Dubrovnik remains largely unchanged. Its medieval ramparts encircle the Old Town, which can be entered through one of two historic gates. After crossing an impressive stone bridge under the watchful gaze of the city’s patron Saint Blaise, explore the broad, stone-paved promenade known as Stradun. Some of the most prominent sights in the city include St. Blaise Church, the Renaissance-era Sponza Palace and the Gothic Rector’s Palace. After the tour, take some free time to explore the city at your own pace. Overnight stay in Dubrovnik.

Breakfast at the hotel. Leave Dubrovnik behind as you set off for Split this morning. The third-largest city in the country, Split sits on the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea and is spread over a central peninsula and its surroundings. In fact, Split is one of the most sought-after coastal destinations in Croatia. Once settled at the hotel, get out and enjoy a walking tour of Split Old Town, including a visit to the remains of the Diocletian Palace, built by the emperor of the same name in the 4th century. The remainder of the day is free at your leisure. Overnight stay in Split.

Estimated transfer distance 146miles / 235km.

Breakfast at the hotel. Your journey of discovery through Croatia continues today with a visit to the Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a place of exquisite natural beauty. Home to 16 lakes, this coveted natural environment invites you to explore some of the most spectacular scenery in the country. Accompanied by an expert guide, take a walk through the ancient woodlands before following the path across Gornja Jezera (Upper Lakes). Visit the Lower Lakes before exploring the different trails and sections of the park on a 3-4 hour visit. Afterwards, continue to Opatija, a coastal town known for its Habsburg-era villas and beautiful beaches, where you'll spend the evening at your leisure. Dinner and overnight stay in Opatija.

Estimated transfer distance from Split to Plitvice Lakes 150miles / 240km.

Estimated transfer distance from Plitvice Lakes to Opatija 103miles / 165km.

Breakfast at the hotel. Take a city tour of Opatija to discover its rich history and aristocratic legacy! Situated on the picturesque Kvarner Bay, it was once a favourite spa resort of the Habsburgs and other European aristocrats such as Mahler, Chekhov and Isadora Duncan. Walking through the colourful Angiolina Park, home to exotic plants, and along the Lungomare promenade surrounded by charming Austro-Hungarian villas and residences, you can still feel the unique appeal of charming Opatija. After the walking tour, enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure, perhaps enjoying the city's beaches or doing some souvenir shopping. Overnight stay in Opatija.

Breakfast at the hotel. Spend a relaxing day in Opatija at your leisure, perhaps exploring the Croatian Museum of Tourism or enjoying the delicious Mediterranean cuisine on offer here. Alternatively, we recommend an optional excursion to the Istrian Peninsula and the Pula Colosseum*. Overnight stay in Opatija.

*Optional Excursion to Istrian Peninsula & Pula Colosseum: Discover the charms of the Istrian Peninsula and visit the spectacular 2000-year-old Colosseum in Pula. Afterwards, spend some time at your leisure in Rovinj before truffle-tasting in Motovun.

Important note: this optional requires a minimum of 6 participants in order for it to operate. If there are not enough participants, the optional excursion will be cancelled and you will be refunded for it when you return from your trip.

Breakfast at the hotel. It's time to head to the Croatian capital of Zagreb, home to an abundance of culture and history. Arrive in Zagreb and set off on a walking tour to explore the most emblematic sights in the city. In the medieval-era Upper Town pay a visit to St. Mark's Church, famous for its tiled roof, as well as the Parliament Building, Government Palace and countless other historical buildings. The remainder of the day is free to get a taste of the Croatian capital at your leisure. Be sure to stroll along Tkalčićeva Street, lined with outdoor cafes and the perfect place to spend an afternoon. Overnight stay in Zagreb.

Estimated transfer distance 112miles / 180km.