You're about to find out why Croatia has been receiving high praise as a travel destination in the New York Times, the Sunday Times of London, and National Geographic, which called it "paradise on earth!" After you arrive you'll be met at the airport for transfer to your delightful hotel, located in the classic resort area of Lake Bled in the soaring Julian Alps. That evening, join your Vantage Program Manager for a trip briefing, followed by a Welcome Dinner at the hotel.

This morning, you'll take a pletna boat ride on the lake, with a stop at the picturesque Island Chapel (seasonal). You'll have the afternoon free, or enjoy an optional tour to scenic Bohinj Lake which boasts fantastic views of the limestone mountain peak Triglav ("three heads"). This evening, you'll be treated to dinner at a local restaurant.

On the morning of Day 4, you'll depart for your visit to Bled Castle where you'll enjoy dramatic views of the lake and spectacular Julian Alps. You'll also stop in Kranjska Gora, a traditional village and ski resort. Later, on the way back to the hotel, enjoy a winetasting at a local restaurant.

Departing Lake Bled this morning, you'll stop to visit Ljubljana, the unhurried capital of Slovenia, where you'll take a walking tour and enjoy free time. Ljubljana has a strong Austrian-alpine feeling, and the architecture emphasizes this impression. During your free time here, you may want to take a stroll up to Ljubljana Castle, one of the city's main features, or view the collection of 19th century Slovenian art at the National Gallery. Continue on to Croatia where you'll enjoy dinner tonight at your hotel in Zagreb.

The capital of Croatia is a pleasant city where residents relax at cafés along streets lined with handsome buildings. During your visit, enjoy a panoramic city tour with views of the National Theater, the Stone Gate, and the city's Art Nouveau architecture. During your tour, notice St. Mark's Church on St. Mark's Square, renowned for its multicolored tile roof. You'll also enjoy some free time to walk through the scenic streets and markets.

Plitvice National Park, a spectacular chain of lakes connected by waterfalls, is today's first highlight. You'll enjoy a scenic boat ride and a walking tour at this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then you'll head to Opatija, a classic resort town on the Adriatic Riviera, where you'll enjoy a guaranteed sea-view room for three nights. This evening enjoy dinner at your hotel.

Day 8 is packed with scenic splendor. First, depart for an included tour of the Istrian region. We'll visit the coastal town of Pula, including Pula's immense, perfectly preserved Roman amphitheater. Next, stop for lunch and sightseeing in Rovinj, a gorgeous old town that juts into the sea on a small peninsula. Then, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Opatija, including the "Lungomare" coastal promenade with its well-kept beaches, restaurants, bars, cafés, and shops. Later at the hotel you'll hear a lecture on "Everyday Life in Croatia."

On Day 9 you're free to explore Opatija. Or, join one of two optional tours (or both). Your first tour choice is a morning "Riviera Boat Trip" that travels along the beautiful Adriatic coast. Your second choice is an afternoon tour to the spectacular Postojna Caves in Slovenia, where you'll board a special cave train to ride into magnificent caverns and among glistening stalactite formations. Tonight enjoy dinner at the hotel.

The day begins with a drive up the spectacular Dalmatian coast. Your first stop is Zadar, the ancient capital of Dalmatia, a bustling town where lone Corinthian columns stand alongside rectangular 1950s blocks, and Romanesque churches compete for space with glassy cafés. You'll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then a walking tour of the Old Town, including the historic Treasury building. Formerly the convent of St. Mary's Church, the Treasury houses the sacred commissions of local gold- and silversmiths. Next, you'll head to Sibenik where you'll check in to your hotel, followed by dinner.

Today you'll explore some of the Adriatic's most stunning landscapes. First stop is Krka National Park, where waterfalls tumble through dramatic gorges. Your visit includes a boat ride from magnificent Krka Falls (weather

permitting). In Jurlinovi Dvori, an unspoiled Dalmatian village, visit a home museum and enjoy lunch. You'll also visit the red-roofed seaside town of Primosten on the Adriatic coast. Upon returning to Sibenik, go on a walking tour among the ancient streets. A highlight is the Cathedral of St. James, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy dinner at the hotel tonight.

The ancient coastal town of Split is this morning's first destination. You'll explore the sprawling palace of the Roman Emperor Diocletian — a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Afterwards, en route to Dubrovnik, you'll stop in sunny Neum, the only seaside town in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Upon arrival in Dubrovnik, check in to your hotel where you'll enjoy three nights in a sea-view room. Dinner is included tonight at the hotel.

On Day 13, you'll begin with a morning tour of Dubrovnik's fortified walls and Minceta Tower, which overlooks the red roofs of the old town. Your sightseeing continues with a walking tour of the lovely Old Town, followed by free time to explore on your own, perhaps stopping at one of the many cafés for lunch.

That evening, enjoy a Vantage-exclusive classical music concert at the 16th-century St. Saviour's Church. It features the works of Sorkocevic, one of Croatia's greatest composers, and a native of Dubrovnik. Your evening is capped off by a home-hosted dinner with a local family.

On Day 14, you'll explore one of the most scenic areas in Europe, as you follow the coast along the Dubrovnik Riviera to the seaside resort town of Cavtat. This charming town offers a treasure trove of history, art and culture, as well as gorgeous, inviting beaches. This evening you'll enjoy a Farewell Reception at your hotel.

Or begin your optional 3-night extension to the Republic of Montenegro.