Croatia's Riviera

Day 1: Tuesday, April 27, 2010 Overnight Flight

Affectionately called the “Croatian Riviera,” Croatia’s Istrian peninsula is a heart-shaped region jutting into the Adriatic Sea. Blessed with medieval cities, an inviting coast, fascinating history and culture, this region is one of the undiscovered gems of Europe. An unforgettable journey awaits you as you depart on your overnight flight..

LANGUAGE DISCOVERY: Today, your Tour Manager will help you discover the origin and history of the language(s) you will experience on your tour along with key words and phrases that will help you communicate with the locals. Travel to the medieval hill town of Moscenice, perched on a dramatic precipice overlooking Kvarner Bay. Enjoy free time to wander its narrow streets and soak up its romantic charm. While in the village you will get to tour their local museum and learn about the history behind their olive press and even sample their locally made brandy! Continue your journey to the coastal city of Pula, beautifully situated on the southern end of the Istrian peninsula. The earliest settlement here dates back to the 10th century B.C. Embark on a walking tour that highlights the city’s many artifacts from its time as a Roman colony. View the imposing and well-preserved first-century amphitheater. Next, it is on to the charming seaside city of Porec. More than 2,000 years old, Porec’s city center still follows its ancient Roman street plan. Visit the Euphrasian Basilica Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site that features remarkably intact 6th century Byzantine art and early Christian mosaics dating to the 2nd and 6th centuries. Today breakfast will be included.

Enjoy the many charms of Opatija at leisure today. Or, perhaps you will opt to join the optional excursion to the staggeringly beautiful Plitvice Lakes, a Croatian national park and UNESCO World Heritage site. Your option includes traveling through spectacular scenery where sixteen terraced lakes tumble into each other through a series of dramatic waterfalls and cascades, surrounded by dense forests and lush vegetation; a short cruise will also take you across the clear, pristine lake waters. Today breakfast will be included.

Today travel to Croatia’s neighbor to the north, Slovenia. Your first stop is its vibrant and friendly capital, Ljubljana. A locally guided tour reveals the unique character of Stara Ljubljana, Ljubljana Old Town, where distinct Baroque and Art Nouveau edifices blend with the striking creations of the visionary 20th century architect, Jože Plecnik. Continue your journey to the historic and enchanting lake resort, Bled, nestled in the rugged Julian Alps. "Enjoy the old-world charm of taking a “pletna” boat to the island on the lake to visit the 17th century cathedral, St. Mary’s Church, and the “wishing bell”. The remainder of the day is at leisure for you to relax or explore this fairy tale resort on your own, before returning to Opatija. Today breakfast and dinner will be included.

Discover the historic home of the world-famous Lipizzaner horses when you visit the Lipica Stud Farm. Charles II, Archduke of Austria, founded the farm in 1580 to breed horses for his powerful family, the Hapsburgs. Tour this fascinating facility and learn about these docile and elegant creatures. "Your next stop is one of the finest wine producing areas in the region where you have the opportunity to sample some locally produced varieties." Today breakfast and dinner will be included.

Today is at leisure. Relax along the shore, enjoy Opatija’s many sights and pleasures or you may choose to join the optional excursion to one of the world’s most romantic cities, Venice, Italy. Upon arrival in Venice, cruise to Murano Island* for a fascinating glass-blowing demonstration. Return to St. Mark’s Square, the elegant piazza at the center of Venetian life. Join a local expert for a walking tour that reveals the Clock Tower with its famous Moors, St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the charming bridge that spans the Rio di Palazzo, which was given the nickname “Bridge of Sighs” by the English poet, Lord Byron. Your option continues with time enjoy Venice on your own. Today breakfast will be included.

Today, travel to the world’s smallest town,Hum. Listed in the Guinness Book of World Records, Hum is home to some of Istria’s most famous and renowned frescoes. Also, while visiting the town, you will have the opportunity to sample their famous mistletoe brandy. Then it's on to Motovun, a beautiful medieval city spread over the top of a 740 foot vineyard-covered hill. Step into the past as you explore this one-time colony of the Venetian Republic, still charming with the architecture of its colonial days. Finally, visit a local farm where the family will show you their way of life in the Istrian countryside. Join your hosts as you learn about the ingredients harvested from their land. Complete the evening with a wonderful farewell dinner on the farm. Today breakfast and dinner will be included.

Your tour ends in Opatija this morning. Today breakfast will be included.