The Best of Slovenia and Croatia in 3 Weeks: A Summer Foodie Adventure

Day 1: Ljubljana Arrival

Ljubljana, Slovenia on June 1, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Le Petit Café

Enjoy a fresh start with excellent pastries, coffee, and classic Slovenian breakfast dishes in the heart of Ljubljana’s old town.
EUR12, 1h

10:30am

Explore Ljubljana Old Town

Stroll through charming cobbled streets, visit the Central Market and see the iconic Dragon Bridge, appreciating Ljubljana’s relaxed but vibrant atmosphere.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Druga Violina

Taste traditional Slovenian cuisine with a modern twist, focusing on local ingredients in a cozy setting.
EUR20, 1h30m

2:30pm

Ljubljana Castle visit

Take the funicular up to the castle for panoramic views, historical exhibitions, and a relaxed walk.
EUR13, 2h

5:00pm

Coffee break at Kavarna Zvezda

Enjoy a traditional Slovenian coffee and locals' favorite pastries in an atmospheric café.
EUR6, 30m

7:30pm

Dinner at JB Restaurant

Dine at one of Ljubljana’s Michelin-starred restaurants offering creative Slovenian fine dining crafted by Chef Janez Bratovž.
EUR70, 2h
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Day 2: Lake Bled Day

Lake Bled, Slovenia on June 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Vila Ajda

Start your day overlooking Lake Bled with a traditional Slovenian breakfast and stunning views.
EUR15, 1h

9:30am

Walk around Lake Bled & Pletna Boat Ride

Enjoy the scenic 6 km walk around the lake, then take a traditional Pletna boat to Bled Island and ring the wishing bell in the church.
EUR15, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Bled Castle Restaurant

Dine with a view at the castle restaurant, sampling local specialties like freshwater fish and Bled cream cake.
EUR25, 1h30m

2:30pm

Visit Bled Castle museum & wine cellar

Explore history exhibits inside the castle and enjoy a wine tasting experience featuring Slovenian varieties.
EUR20, 2h

6:00pm

Return to Ljubljana and relax

Travel back to Ljubljana (approx. 45 min) and enjoy free time walking or shopping in the old town.
EUR10 (bus), 1h

8:00pm

Dinner at Špajza

Experience authentic, home-style Slovenian dishes with seasonal ingredients in a cozy setting.
EUR30, 2h
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Day 3: Piran & Coast

Piran, Slovenia on June 3, 2025

7:30am

Early breakfast at hotel in Ljubljana

Have a quick, energizing breakfast before heading to the coast.
Included, 30m

8:30am

Drive to Piran

Scenic 1hr30min drive to the Slovenian coastal town of Piran, known for Venetian architecture and fresh seafood.
EUR15 (car rental), 1h30m

10:00am

Walk Piran Old Town

Explore narrow alleys, Tartini Square, and the historic city walls for stunning Adriatic views.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Fritolin pri Cantini

Taste some of the best seafood fritters and fresh fish dishes right by the sea in a casual yet highly rated eatery.
EUR20, 1h30m

2:00pm

Relax at Piran beach

Swim and soak in sun at the pebble beach or rent a kayak for coastal views.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Coffee and gelato at Pavel 2

Indulge in great Italian-style gelato and coffee on the waterfront promenade.
EUR6, 30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Restaurant Pavel 2

Enjoy elegant dining with excellent local seafood, Mediterranean wine, and atmospheric sea views.
EUR50, 2h
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Day 4: Istrian Flavors

Rovinj, Croatia on June 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Piran bakery

Grab some fresh pastries and coffee for the road on your way to Croatia’s Istrian peninsula.
EUR6, 30m

9:00am

Drive to Rovinj

Cross the border and enjoy a short 1hr drive to the picturesque town of Rovinj, Croatia.
EUR10 (toll & fuel), 1h

10:30am

Explore Rovinj Old Town

Wander the Venetian-style alleys, visit St. Euphemia Church and enjoy coastal views.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Monte

Indulge in Michelin-starred Istrian cuisine blending seafood, truffles, and local produce.
EUR60, 1h30m

3:00pm

Visit a local truffle farm

A short drive out of town to learn about and taste the region’s famous Istrian truffles.
EUR40, 2h

6:00pm

Sunset walk along Rovinj waterfront

Enjoy a peaceful stroll with beautiful Adriatic views as you wind down the day.
Free, 1h

8:00pm

Dinner at La Puntulina

Dine cliffside with fresh seafood and local wines in a romantic setting overlooking the sea.
EUR45, 2h
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Day 5: Pula & Istrian Wine

Pula, Croatia on June 5, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Rovinj hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast featuring local fresh fruits and baked goods.
Included, 1h

10:00am

Drive to Pula

Short 40-min drive to Pula, known for its remarkable Roman amphitheater and historical sites.
EUR6, 40m

10:45am

Tour Pula Arena

Visit one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world, dating back to 1st century AD.
HRK60 (approx EUR8), 1h

12:00pm

Walk the historical city center

Explore ancient temples, city gates, and lively market squares with a coffee break at Café Uliks.
EUR5, 1h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at Zigante Restaurant

Famous for its truffle menu, savor Istrian truffle pasta paired with local wines in a stylish rustic setting.
EUR40, 1h30m

3:30pm

Afternoon wine tasting at Kozlović Winery

Visit one of Istria’s top wineries for a tour and tasting of Malvazija and Teran wines.
EUR25, 2h

6:00pm

Return to Rovinj

Relax and freshen up for dinner after a fulfilling day exploring Pula and wine country.
EUR10, 1h

8:00pm

Dinner at Taverna

Enjoy hearty Istrian specialties including grilled meats and fresh seafood in a casual setting.
EUR35, 2h
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Day 6: Zagreb City Food

Zagreb, Croatia on June 6, 2025

7:30am

Early breakfast in Rovinj

Quick breakfast as you prepare for a longer drive inland to Croatia’s capital city.
EUR8, 30m

8:00am

Drive to Zagreb

Approx 3hr drive east to Zagreb, with beautiful scenery en route.
EUR25 (fuel toll), 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Vinodol

Enjoy traditional Croatian dishes in one of Zagreb’s best known family-run restaurants, focusing on local ingredients.
EUR25, 1h30m

1:30pm

Explore Zagreb Upper Town

Visit the historic medieval part of the city with landmarks like St. Mark’s Church and Lotrščak Tower.
Free, 2h

3:30pm

Coffee at Cogito Coffee Roasters

Sample specialty coffee in a hip café located in the city center.
EUR5, 30m

4:00pm

Museum visit: Museum of Broken Relationships

A unique museum that combines art and human stories, open until 7pm.
HRK40 (approx EUR5), 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Agava

Contemporary Croatian cuisine with Mediterranean influences, located in the lively Tkalčićeva street.
EUR40, 2h
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Day 7: Plitvice Nature & Food

Plitvice Lakes, Croatia on June 7, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Zagreb hotel

Early breakfast as you prepare for a nature day trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park.
Included, 30m

7:30am

Drive to Plitvice Lakes

Approx 2hr drive to UNESCO-listed natural park famous for its cascading lakes and waterfalls.
EUR20, 2h

9:30am

Explore Plitvice Lakes National Park

Take walking trails and panoramic boat rides to experience the unforgettable turquoise lakes and waterfalls. Park opens at 8am.
HRK180 (approx EUR24), 4h

1:30pm

Lunch at Licka Kuca

Traditional Croatian mountain cuisine with specialties like lamb, trout, and hearty stews.
EUR25, 1h30m

3:00pm

Drive to Zadar

Approx 1hr30min drive to coastal city Zadar, known for its Roman and Venetian ruins mixed with inventive modern installations.
EUR15, 1h30m

5:00pm

Walk Zadar Sea Organ & Greeting to the Sun

Experience the unique sea organ that plays music from waves, plus the solar-powered light art installation.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Restaurant 2Ribara

Seaside dining specializing in fresh Adriatic seafood and Dalmatian flavors.
EUR40, 2h
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Day 8: Dalmatian Coast & History

Split, Croatia on June 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Festival, Zadar

Start the day with Croatian coffee and freshly baked goods in Zadar’s old town.
EUR7, 1h

9:30am

Drive to Split

Approx 2hr drive south along the scenic Dalmatian coast.
EUR20, 2h

11:30am

Tour Diocletian’s Palace

Explore this ancient Roman imperial palace that forms the core of Split’s old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Free (some parts paid), 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Fife

Casual local favorite offering hearty Dalmatian and Croatian dishes at great prices.
EUR15, 1h30m

3:00pm

Walk Split Riva promenade

Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the beautiful waterfront lined with cafés and palm trees.
Free, 1h

4:00pm

Visit Marjan Hill

Hike or bike to the hilltop park for panoramic views over Split and the Adriatic Sea.
Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Restaurant Zrno Soli

Savor contemporary Dalmatian seafood dishes with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
EUR45, 2h
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Day 9: Island Flavors: Hvar

Hvar Island, Croatia on June 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Split hotel

Early breakfast before catching the ferry to Hvar Island.
Included, 30m

8:30am

Ferry to Hvar Island

1-hour ferry ride from Split to Hvar, offering beautiful coastal views.
EUR20, 1h

9:30am

Explore Hvar Old Town

Visit the stunning main square, historic fortress, and relaxed harbor area.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Dalmatino

A local favorite restaurant serving fresh seafood and Dalmatian specialties in a cozy setting.
EUR35, 1h30m

2:00pm

Beach time at Dubovica

Relax at one of Hvar’s most beautiful pebble beaches about 10 minutes from town by car or taxi.
Free, 3h

6:00pm

Evening wine tasting at a local winery

Enjoy tasting indigenous Croatian wines from Hvar vineyards paired with local cheeses.
EUR30, 1h30m

8:30pm

Dinner at Black Pepper

Gourmet dining with Mediterranean and Croatian influences near the harbor.
EUR50, 2h
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Day 10: Dubrovnik Exploration

Dubrovnik, Croatia on June 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hvar hotel

Relaxed breakfast before ferry and drive to Dubrovnik.
Included, 30m

9:00am

Ferry back to Split and drive to Dubrovnik

Ferry back to Split (1h), then approx 3hr drive south to Dubrovnik.
EUR30 combined, 4h

1:30pm

Lunch at Nautika

Splurge-worthy fine dining near the city walls with exceptional seafood and Adriatic views.
EUR70, 1h30m

3:00pm

Walk the Dubrovnik City Walls

Explore the impressive 2 km long well-preserved city walls for spectacular views of the old town and sea. Open until 7pm in summer.
EUR35, 2h

6:00pm

Relax at Banje Beach

Enjoy a swim or aperitif at the popular beach near the old town.
Free, 1h

8:00pm

Dinner at Proto

Traditional Dalmatian seafood in a historic setting popular with locals and visitors alike.
EUR50, 2h
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Day 11: Dubrovnik & Day Trip

Dubrovnik, Croatia on June 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Gradska Kavana Arsenal

Enjoy morning coffee and pastries seating right by the marina and city walls.
EUR8, 1h

9:00am

Day trip to Lokrum Island

Short ferry ride to the island for hiking, swimming and visiting botanical gardens. Open from 9am to 8pm.
EUR15, 4h

1:00pm

Picnic lunch on Lokrum Island

Pack or purchase local snacks to enjoy beside the sea or in shady groves.
EUR15, 1h

3:00pm

Return to Dubrovnik and free time

Explore more of the old town shops or relax at your hotel.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Taj Mahal

Try Bosnian-Croatian fusion cuisine in a casual but acclaimed local restaurant.
EUR35, 2h
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