Slovenia & the Gulf of Trieste

Fly to Venice airport in the morning, where you will be met by your local guide and transferred to your hotel in Lucija-Portoroz, a resort town on Slovenia's coast.

After breakfast you will meet your guide who will accompany you on a half day's panoramic boat trip from Portoroz to Izola. Depart Portoroz port towards the picturesque coastal town of Piran, tucked between the sea and its impressive town walls. Continue along the peninsula of Piran and enjoy a spectacular view of the high cliffs of Strunjan Natural Park and the charming towns scattered along its coast. Marvel at the amazing backdrop of the Italian coastline as you reach Izola, an ancient fishing town. Take in Izola's white-washed bell towers, exclusive marina and fertile vineyards in the distance as you return to Portoroz. (Note that in the rare occurrence of unsuitable weather, this excursion may be re-scheduled to a different day).

The afternoon can be spent at your leisure. Your guide would be delighted to recommend some other hidden gems for you to discover.

After breakfast today you will set off for a full day excursion to the neighbouring country of Italy. After crossing the border, you will travel towards the city of Trieste, well known for its numerous cultural and historical monuments, palaces and churches. Start your tour at the beautiful Miramare Castle, a 19th century castle located on the Gulf of Trieste. Surrounded by a flourishing park, it offers a spectacular panoramic view from a cliff high above the sea. View of Miramare Castle only from the outside for 2026 departures.

We’ll continue to Trieste for a guided walking tour of its historic centre, where we’ll discover many wonders the city has to offer, such as a picturesque piazzas, sumptuous palazzo-museums, classic coffeehouses and delicious seafood restaurants.

After breakfast, embark on a morning guided excursion to the Postojna Caves to admire the spectacular 24km underground system of passages, tunnels, halls, and karst features. While there, enjoy a one-of-a-kind train ride on the unique cave railway, view the blackened entrance which was damaged by fire during World War II and the impressive Congress Hall, which is now used as a concert venue. From here, we will head to Predjama Castle (entrance included), a storybook castle wedged beneath a dramatic stone archway and against a cliff. Admire the unique Renaissance architecture of the castle located in south-central Slovenia, in the historical region of Inner Carniola

This morning, come with us to Lake Bled for a guided tour including a boat trip to Bled Island, which lies in the centre of the lake's glacial blue waters. The small island is home to St. Mary's church (entrance included) with it's famous wishing bell, a small museum and the historic South Staircase, a set of 99 steps built in 1655.  

We’ll continue to Ljubljana where we will enjoy a guided walking tour of the city's highlights, including the leafy banks of the Ljubljanica River. Afterwards, you will have free time to further explore the city at your own pace or relax with a coffee along the river. Your local guide will be happy to offer suggestions of activities that suit your interests. There will be free time for lunch in Ljubljana. 

Enjoy two free days to relax at your hotel and explore your enchanting surroundings at your own pace. Why not try therapeutic treatments based on the mud and brine from the nearby Secovlje Salina salt pans for further relaxation?

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and depart for Venice airport for your flight home.