Call us: (910) 742-5324
Are you ready for an extraordinary journey that combines the splendor of Eastern Europe with the camaraderie of a group of inspiring women travelers? Join us on a once-in-a-lifetime exploration of Croatia and Slovenia, where we’ll uncover the hidden treasures and timeless beauty of these enchanting countries. Sisterhood Travels invites you to be a part of our exclusive women-only tour, carefully crafted to immerse you in the rich tapestry of this breathtaking region.
From the vibrant streets of Ljubljana to the tranquil shores of Lake Bled, the historical charm of Opatija to the coastal allure of the Istrian Peninsula, our 2024 tour is a celebration of culture, history, and the shared bond of sisterhood. As we journey through this captivating landscape, you’ll savor exclusive culinary delights and winery experiences that will tantalize your taste buds, all while surrounded by the laughter and support of fellow female travelers.
But the adventure doesn’t stop there. Picture yourself wandering through the emerald wonders of Plitvice Lakes National Park, discovering the rich history of Split, and basking in the sun on the stunning Adriatic Coast. As the sun sets, you’ll be treated to lively folklore entertainment that captures the heart and soul of these vibrant cultures.
Our journey through Croatia and Slovenia also includes meaningful home visits, providing a rare opportunity to connect with local families and gain a deeper understanding of their traditions and daily lives. The historic city of Dubrovnik, known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” awaits with its ancient walls and captivating stories.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first adventure, Sisterhood Travels promises an unforgettable experience in 2024. Join us as we create lasting memories and celebrate the power of women traveling together, all while discovering the astonishing beauty and diverse landscapes of Croatia and Slovenia. Get ready to be inspired, make new friends, and embark on a journey of a lifetime. We can’t wait to share this adventure with you!
Welcome to Zagreb! Upon arrival, your driver will meet you in the arrivals hall and transfer you to our beautiful hotel in Ljubljana, Slovenia, a romantic capital city in the midst of a cultural renaissance. Travel time between Zagreb, Croatia and Ljubljana, Slovenia is approximately 2 hours. You’ll have the entire rest of the day and evening to rest, relax and rejuvenate. This evening, perhaps you’ll meet your fellow Sisters in the hotel lobby for an optional get-together at your own expense. No meals are included today.
Hotel: Grand Plaza Hotel, Ljubljana
Today, you’ll likely want to explore this fairy tale town independently with your new Sisters. Be sure to arrive back at the hotel later this afternoon to prepare for our Welcome Dinner this evening in Ljubljana. (Breakfast and Dinner)
Hotel: Grand Plaza Hotel, Ljubljana
This morning, a local expert will introduce us formally to beautiful Ljubljana. Nestled gently along the banks of the Ljubljanica River, the city is dotted with green parks, picturesque bridges, sidewalk cafes, and a lively central market. We’ll see Prešeren Square, the impressive City Hall, Ljubljana University, and the many bridges that the city is known for, such as Dragon Bridge, where this majestic symbol of the city is on full display, representing courage and power. We can enjoy some free time with our Sisters for lunch in this vibrant town. In the early afternoon, we’ll travel towards Lake Bled, nestled between the Julian Alps. We’ll visit the centerpiece of Lake Bled, Bled Island, by a traditional wooden boat. Later, we’ll continue the afternoon in one of the most picturesque places in Slovenia. Perhaps you’ll try the legendary Bled’s cream cake before we return to Ljubljana. (Breakfast)
Hotel: Grand Plaza Hotel, Ljubljana
This morning, we’ll depart Ljubljana. We’ll get to know more of Slovenia when we visit Novo Mesto, a small-town gem embraced by the Krka River and landscapes of gentle hills. We can view the town from a unique perspective as we drift along the famous river bend. Later, we’ll continue on a walking tour with our local guide. We will enjoy our free time having lunch with our Sisters. Later, we’ll continue to Croatia and the lovely seaside resort of Opatija, known as “Croatia’s Riviera.” This fashionable region was once the summer retreat for Roman Caesars and Habsburg Monarchs. Get acquainted with this coastal town on a brief walking tour. This evening, perhaps you’ll join your Sisters for dinner at one of the many wonderful restaurants nearby. (Breakfast)
Hotel: Liburnia Riviera Hotels, Opatija
Today, we’ll discover the richness of the Istrian Peninsula with its Italian and Croatian influences. First, we’ll visit a local distillery, where the owners use regional plants, fruits, and herbs to produce brandies, snacks, and other treats. You’ll discover a picture-perfect example of a hilltop Istrian town. In the late afternoon, a delightful farm-to-table dinner at a local restaurant lets us sample the regional wines and culinary delicacies of the Istrian Peninsula. (Breakfast and Dinner)
Hotel: Liburnia Riviera Hotels, Opatija
This morning, we will depart for Plitvice Lakes, one of the oldest, largest, and most beautiful national parks in Croatia, if not the world. Inspiring scenery is one of the wonders you’ll experience at this designated UNESCO World Heritage site. We’ll travel among the park’s dense forests and terraced lakes, where waterfalls and free-flowing cascades connect one lake to the other. Enjoy a short cruise that takes you into the heart of this natural wonder that extends over 73,000 acres. Tonight, we will stay at a hotel in the village near the National Park. (Breakfast and Dinner)
Hotel: The Lyra Hotel Plitvice, Plitvice Lakes
From the forest landscapes of Plitvice Lakes, we will travel through the Croatian countryside and stop in a traditional small village to meet the Perajica family. Croatia has a long history of creating high-quality, artisanal prosciuttos; this family makes one of the best! After a short tour to learn how the meat is produced, we’ll enjoy a light lunch of homemade specialties. Later, we’ll arrive in Split, a seaside city full of Roman ruins and natural splendors. This afternoon, we’ll set out on a walking tour featuring the impressive Diocletian’s Palace (UNESCO), one of the most significant late-Roman historical monuments built by Emperor Diocletian when he left Rome at the turn of the 4th century. Explore its Peristyle and the Cathedral of St. Dominus. This evening, we’ll enjoy typical Dalmatian cuisine during dinner at a cozy local restaurant. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
Hotel: Atrium Hotel – Safir Hoteli, Split
Today is completely yours to relax and explore Split’s coastal charms independently with your Sisters. This coastal gem is renowned for its picturesque Venetian architecture, medieval walls, towering cathedrals, prominent stone houses, and scenic charm. (Breakfast)
Hotel: Atrium Hotel – Safir Hoteli, Split
Savor stunning sea views as we travel the winding coastal road, hugging the sheer cliffs that drop dramatically into the aquamarine of the Adriatic Sea. We’ll stop in a quaint village in the Dalmatian countryside where a local family will host us for a delicious lunch made from ingredients produced in the valley near their home. Learn about village life and listen to Croatian folk music played on the “lijerica,” a traditional instrument. Later, we’ll continue on to Dubrovnik, a city of twisting cobblestone streets and burnt-orange rooftops rich in history and charm. (Breakfast and Lunch)
Hotel: Royal Hotel & Resort Ariston, Dubrovnik
This morning, we’ll join a local guide on a tour of the “Old Dubrovnik,” a UNESCO World Heritage site. We’ll visit the Franciscan Monastery, where Europe’s oldest pharmacy resides, and see Dubrovnik’s many historical sites like the Rector’s Palace, Sponza Palace, Dubrovnik Cathedral, and Old Town’s famous main street, Stradun. This afternoon, you get to choose what you’d like to do! You can choose to ascend Mount Srd by cable car for breathtaking views of the Old City of Dubrovnik, the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea, and the islands -OR- receive a ticket to access the walls that contain the old city of Dubrovnik and gain a different perspective on this remarkable place. (Breakfast)
Hotel: Royal Hotel & Resort Ariston, Dubrovnik
Today, we’ll head for the rich agricultural region of Konavle on the southernmost tip of Croatia. Marked by rolling hills and mountains planted with vineyards and fruit trees and dotted with villas, Konavle is a feast for the senses. You will be welcomed at a family-owned vineyard by the Brajkovics to learn about life at the vineyard and how they cultivate and produce their wines. Then, we’ll indulge in a tasting at their family home, overlooking the stunning scenery of grapes, olive groves, and cypress trees. Continue through this stunning scenery to a locally owned restaurant set in a picture-perfect setting beside a rushing river. We’ll sit down together for a lunch of culturally rich recipes prepared in the traditional ways passed down for generations. (Breakfast and Lunch)
Hotel: Royal Hotel & Resort Ariston, Dubrovnik
This morning, we depart Dubrovnik and travel to lovely Cavtat, a coastal resort town. After a short tour reveals its highlights, we can enjoy free time to grab coffee or lunch at one of its seaside cafes. Later, we’ll head to the airport for a short group flight to Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. A late afternoon tour highlights the best of this fascinating city that has marked the intersection of Eastern and Central Europe for more than 1,000 years. We’ll ride one of the most beautiful funiculars in Europe to the charming upper town. (Breakfast)
Hotel: Sheraton Zagreb Hotel
Today, we journey into the beautiful Croatian countryside of Zagorje, known for its picturesque, gentle hills full of green forests, vineyards, and cultivated fields. We’ll begin by visiting historic Kumrovec, the birthplace of Josip Broz Tito, the lifetime president of the former Yugoslavia. Visiting the ethno village there is like stepping back in time as we stroll the small houses of the beautiful “Old Village.” We’ll continue on to the delightful little town of Samobor, well known as a foodie favorite. After a short tour, we’ll enjoy lunch in a local restaurant, which ends with the famous Samoborske-Kremsnite, a Croatian cake delicacy with custard cream. You will also sample Bermet, the aromatic, sweet, and bitter wine made according to a centuries-old secret recipe that is perhaps the most authentic Croatian drink. This evening, we’ll gather together for a Farewell Dinner in a local restaurant to celebrate the end of an unforgettable trip at one of Zagreb’s local restaurants. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
Hotel: Sheraton Zagreb Hotel
Sadly, today it’s time bid our Sisters goodbye as we return to the Zagreb airport for our flights home. (Breakfast)
PLEASE READ THIS INFORMATION CAREFULLY
This is a moderately paced itinerary that involves some longer days and more activities. Expect some early hotel departures, and limited time for day time rest and rejuvenation as the itineraries are designed to ensure that you see as much as possible in these wonderful destinations. This may include longer coach journeys and guests should be able to join a walking tour lasting 1-2 hours with stops possibly over uneven terrain. Guests should have reasonable health and mobility and be comfortable with standing for longer periods of time with no difficulty.