Where2Travel Croatia & Italy Booklet

exciting travel opportunities with James Jang

Croatia & Its Islands

Italy’s Treasures

CROATIA and

its islands

From medieval architecture to ethereal waterfalls, coast along the sparkling Adriatic Sea and experience the best of Croatia. Begin your journey in Zagreb, the illustrious capital of Croatia. Stand in awe before the cascading waterfalls of Krka National Park. Enjoy a memorable 7-night cruise on the Adriatic Sea along Croatia’s coast. Discover the ancient palace of Emperor Diocletian in Split. On Brac Island, take in the “Golden Cape” of Bol. Visit the island of Biševo, home to the mystical Blue Cave. Tour the Old City of Dubrovnik and walk along the picturesque cobblestone streets. See the country’s immaculate beauty as you cruise its vibrant waters and step into its rich history.

ZAGREB – STONE GATE – ŠIBENIK – KRKA NATIONAL PARK

11 Days • Departing 22nd July 2020 FROM $4,469 PER PERSON, DOUBLE, LAND ONLY 10 Breakfasts • 6 Lunches • 3 Dinners

HOTELS Day 1 | Sheraton Zagreb Hotel, Zagreb Days 2, 3 | Amadria Park Ivan Hotel, Šibenik Days 4-10 | MS San Spirito

Marco Polo’s Home

Zagreb

Krka

Bol

CROATIA & ITS ISLANDS cultural • • •

EXPERIENCES

Stand before the breathtaking waterfalls in Krka National Park.

Partake in traditional Croatian entertainment.

Explore the Old City of Dubrovnik with a local expert.

must-see • • •

INCLUSIONS

Tour Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia.

Visit Korcula Island, the debated birthplace of Marco Polo.

Relax on the “Golden Cape” of Bol, one of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia.

culinary • • •

INCLUSIONS

Dine on Continental and Istrian cuisine at a favourite local restaurant in Zagreb.

Enjoy traditional Dalmatian delicacies prepared according to ancient recipes.

Experience a captain’s dinner upon arrival in Split.

CROATIA & ITS ISLANDS

ITINERARY

Day 5: Split – Trogir Enjoy a morning at leisure to discover Split on your own. Then it’s off to Trogir, a coastal gem renowned for its picturesque Venetian architecture. Stop for a quick swim along the way before arriving in this charming town. Admire the striking stone houses and towering cathedral as you tour the city with a guide.

Day 1: Zagreb, Croatia – Tour Begins Welcome to Zagreb, the capital of Croatia! Settle into your hotel amidst the vibrant cafes and cobblestone streets before meeting your fellow travellers over dinner featuring Istrian cuisine.

Day 2: Zagreb – Šibenik Step right into the history and culture of everyday life in Zagreb as you tour the city with a local guide. Become acquainted with the city as you see the main sights of the capital, including the Croatian National Theatre and Opera House, the Croatian Parliament building, the illustrious Zagreb Cathedral, and the legendary Stone Gate. Then, it’s off to Šibenik! Make the most of your free evening and get to know this Dalmatian town’s historic architecture and striking coastline.

Day 3: Šibenik - Krka National Park - Šibenik Set off on a walking tour through the ancient alleyways and roads of Šibenik where you’ll get a chance to see the Cathedral of St. James, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Then, venture to the breathtaking Krka National Park, where waterfalls tumble through dramatic gorges. Meander along the trails that surround the falls before embarking on a boat ride that takes you along the river to Skradin.* Tonight, embrace the culture of Croatia and become captivated by authentic traditional entertainment with dinner.

Day 4: Šibenik – Split – Board Ship Your adventure continues in Split! Discover Split, one of the oldest cities in this historic region. In this bustling port, explore Diocletian’s Palace, the city’s famous ancient fortress.

One of Croatia’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, Emperor Diocletian chose the palace to be his retirement home because of the incomparable beauty of Split. A guided tour takes you through the mysterious passageways and into the lower levels of this massive structure. Then, it’s your choice! Visit the oldest museum institution in Croatia, Split’s Archaeological Museum, founded in 1820; marvel at a diverse range of artifacts from the Paleolithic to the Iron Age -OR- admire the works of 20th-century sculptor Ivan Meštrovic during a guided tour. The Meštrovic Gallery features an array of the artist’s creations including sculptures, drawings and architecture. The museum itself is considered an art monument. In this classical city, you’ll board the 4-star MS San Spirito this afternoon. Settle into your new home for the next seven nights and revel in all of the luxuries of a small cruise ship. Later, relax onboard before experiencing a Captain’s welcome dinner. Enjoy your meal accompanied by live Klapa music, the traditional Croatian style of singing.

Day 6: Trogir – Bol – Hvar Start your day in the town of Bol, located on the picturesque island of Brac. With free time this morning, perhaps you’ll choose to swim along the shore of the “Golden Cape,” known to be one of the most popular beaches in Croatia. Return to the ship for lunch, then cruise to the sunny island of Hvar. Along the way, you’ll coast by quaint coves and bays tucked along the Adriatic Sea. Upon arrival in Hvar, get acquainted with the area when a local guide introduces you to the history, culture, and lifestyle of the city.

Discover how lavender was traditionally grown in the region for centuries and take a closer look at the custom. Enjoy an evening at leisure and perhaps you’ll dine in one of the many local, family-owned restaurants that Hvar is known for.

Day 7: Hvar - Biševo - Vis Embark on a morning cruise to the island of Biševo. This island is home to the Blue Cave,* a stunning grotto with a luminous blue glow. Cruise on to Vis, a small island practically untouched by tourism and overflowing with Renaissance architecture and beautiful beaches. With free time this afternoon, relax onboard the ship or choose to go on an optional tour of the island ending with a farm-to-table dinner.

Day 8: Vis – Korcula This morning, it’s on to Korcula, debated home to one of the world’s most famous explorers: Marco Polo. Decide for yourself if he was born in Korcula or Venice as you tour his alleged home and take in the fantastic sea views from its tower. Join a local guide and make your way along the narrow stone streets whilst you wander among the medieval buildings and vibrant houses in the town known as “Little Dubrovnik.” Enjoy the afternoon and evening at leisure to discover the charms of this age-old city.

Day 9: Korcula – Mljet National Park – Slano This morning, arrive in Mljet National Park. Stroll around the Large and Small lakes before exploring the Islet of St. Mary, home to a Benedictine Monastery from the 12th century. Don’t miss out on a chance to take a swim in the strikingly blue waters.

Then, your journey continues to Slano, a port city just outside of Dubrovnik. Your afternoon and evening are at leisure… consider an optional excursion to Ston, a nearby fortified city known for its decadent oysters and seafood.

Day 10: Slano – Dubrovnik This morning, cruise past the Elaphiti Islands and be welcomed into Dubrovnik. You’ll see why the city is called the “Pearl of the Adriatic” when you take in the medieval stone walls, iconic Baroque rooftops, and winding cobblestone streets. Embrace the unspeakable feeling that you’ve stepped into another time as you explore the Old City with a local guide. Enjoy outstanding views of the city during your farewell lunch onboard. With free time in the evening, perhaps you’ll visit the famous City Walls or ride a cable car to the top of the Mount Srd for awe-inspiring views of Dubrovnik.

Day 11: Dubrovnik – Disembark Ship – Tour Ends Say goodbye to Croatia as your tour of the Adriatic Coast comes to a close today. *Please Note: The Dubrovnik By the Sea/Lokrum Island cruise choice (in Dubrovnik) is dependent on favourable weather conditions. If the cruise is unavailable, the city wall tickets will be available to everyone. *Both the boat ride to Skradin and the Blue Cave operate on a weather-permitting basis and depending on water conditions.

ITALY’S treasures The romance of Italy comes to life. Explore a local farm and indulge in a cheese and wine tasting. Explore the rugged coast and remote fishing villages of the Cinque Terre. Spend four relaxing nights in a Tuscan villa. Choose the way you discover the charming town of Lucca: on foot or by bicycle. Get to know Florence with a walking tour of the city’s treasures and monuments, including the Piazza del Duomo. Experience medieval life at the Palazzo Davanzati. Venture to rose-hued Siena. Visit a winery in the countryside and learn the secrets of Tuscan cuisine when you participate in a cooking lesson. Wander the streets of Bologna and taste some of the area’s specialty foods. Spend two wonderful nights in Venice. These are Italy’s treasures.

HOTELS

LAKES REGION – STRESA – ITALIAN RIVIERA – CINQUE TERRE 11 Days • Departing 12th July 2020 FROM $5,349 PER PERSON, DOUBLE, LAND ONLY

10 Breakfasts • 1 Lunch • 6 Dinners

Days 1, 2 | Regina Palace Hotel, Stresa or Grand Hotel des Iles Borromees, Stresa Days 3, 4 | Grand Hotel dei Castelli, Italian Riviera or Grande Albergo, Sestri Levante, Italian Riviera Days 5-8 | Villa Lecchi, Tuscany or Villa Sanpaolo, San Gimignano Days 9, 10 | Hotel Ca’ dei Conti, Venice or Hotel Bonvecchiati, Venice

Italian Riviera

Lucca

Cinque Terre

Dining in Tuscany

ITALY’S TREASURES cultural • • •

EXPERIENCES

Explore Lake Orta, one of Italy’s hidden treasures.

Discover magical Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Experience medieval life at the Palazzo Davanzati.

must-see • • •

INCLUSIONS

Spend two nights in romantic Venice.

Immerse yourself in Florence’s myriad treasures while on a tour of the city.

Uncover the prismatic landscape of the Tuscan countryside.

culinary • • •

INCLUSIONS

Journey via watercraft to Isola dei Pescatori for a lovely welcome dinner.

Learn the art behind Tuscan cuisine during a cooking lesson with an expert chef.

Indulge in local delicacies during a cocktail party in Stresa.

ITALY’S TREASURES

ITINERARY

a family-owned leather shop and learn the traditional Italian techniques of leather making. End the day in a historic Tuscan villa where you’ll begin a rejuvenating 4-night stay.** Day 6: Florence Birthplace of the Renaissance. Home of the Medici family, Galilei, Botticelli and da Vinci. Set out on a walking tour and see medieval Florence’s treasures and monuments, including the Piazza del Duomo, the centre of religious life in medieval Florence, and the Piazza della Signoria. Visit the world-famous Academy Gallery to see Michelangelo’s incredible statue of David. Florence is yours to explore independently before returning to your villa.

Day 1: Stresa, Italy – Tour Begins Begin on the arresting shores of Lake Maggiore, surrounded by the peaceful beauty of the Alpine lakes region. Visit a wine shop and enjoy a cocktail party with some prima di cena snacks. Cruise to Isola dei Pescatori,* the most picturesque of the Borromean Islands, where you’ll engage with new friends at a dinner welcoming you to Italy.

Day 2: Stresa In an ancient village nestled in the mountains, a local family welcomes you to sample their very own artisanal cheeses, paired with the region’s best wines. The remainder of the day in Stresa is at your leisure.

Explore the piazzas, flower-lined cobblestone streets, and lakeside promenades. Or, relax and enjoy the breathtaking surroundings during an optional cruise of this scenic lake region.

Day 3: Stresa – Orta – Italian Riviera Witness pictureperfect views of the lakes region from Lake Orta, the ancient glacial lake in the Alpine foothills. A boat delivers you to Isola di San Giulio, dominated by its working convent. Journey next to discover the myriad glories of the Italian Riviera as the Liguria coast calls you to the town of Sestri Levante.

Day 4: Italian Riviera – Cinque Terre Spend your day discovering the colourful Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Travel by rail through the medieval villages of the Cinque Terre, perched on the edge of the sea. Traverse the rugged coastal area dotted with terraced vineyards, arriving at this nearly inaccessible string of fishing villages tucked between the mountains and the Mediterranean. Feel like you have stepped back in time. Spend an afternoon independently exploring this magical place.

Day 5: Italian Riviera – Lucca – Tuscan Villa Encircled by 16th-century Renaissance walls, the medieval city of Lucca’s appeal lies in the old-world ambience contained within its ramparts. Old storefronts offer a glimpse into the city’s elegant past, while Lucca’s cultural scene thrives in the busy piazzas – local gathering spots for more than 2,000 years.

This afternoon, it’s your choice! Discover Lucca on foot -ORpedal the city circuit via bicycle. Whatever you choose, you’ll see historic marvels including the Cathedral of San Martino and the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro. On a tour of Lucca’s speciality food shops, sample the region’s seasonal delicacies. Stop at

Day 7: Siena Travel south to Siena, where Romanesque and Gothic architecture surround you, and history ignites the culture inside this UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk the medieval streets through narrow passageways on a guided tour and visit the Gothic cathedral, a dramatic architectural marvel rich in frescoes by Pinturicchio and masterpieces by Pisano, Donatello, and Michelangelo. Retreat to your Tuscan villa for a relaxing afternoon.

Day 8: Tuscan Countryside Tuscany’s landscape is a magical colour wheel, where the rays of a pure, sharp sun electrify its vineyards and groves. In the heart of the countryside, a family wine estate welcomes you. After a tour that showcases the wine cellar, the estate, vineyards and olive groves, engage in a lunchtime cooking lesson with the estate’s own chef. Break bread during an authentic Tuscan lunch and toast with wines produced on-site. Return to the villa for some leisure time this afternoon. Continue your culinary journey tonight at one of Tuscany’s traditional restaurants. Buona digestione!

Day 9: Tuscany – Bologna – Venice On the way to Venice, discover the virtues of Bologna. A city barely changed since the Renaissance, the vivacious capital of the Emilia-Romagna region enthralls you during a walking tour of its medieval grid. Browse the city’s speciality food shops, ripe with the smells and sights of epicurean fantasy, and sample local delicacies along the way. Arrive later in Venice, the “Queen of the Adriatic,” and settle in for a 2-night stay in one of the most romantic cities in the world.

Day 10: Venice Welcome to Venezia, the floating city that’s home to magnificent art collections, wonders of architecture, and where marbled palaces belonging to the Gothic and Renaissance periods tower over gondola-laden canals.

Embark on a boat journey to Murano*** for an expert glassblowing demonstration on an island that’s renowned for its long tradition of glass making. Journey back to Venice’s St. Mark’s Square, where a local guide takes you on a tour of its incredible sites, from the Bridge of Sighs and the Clock Tower, to St. Mark’s Basilica. Addio, Italia! Join friends tonight for a spectacular farewell dinner.

Day 11: Venice – Tour Ends Wake up in Venice and depart for home. *The dinner at Isola dei Pescatori is held from April to October; from November to March, dinner will be in the town of Stresa. **Note that villas in Tuscany are dotted throughout the region and we use different properties on this program. Some may be located in the countryside, removed from a city centre. Still others may be closer to the hustle and bustle of the region.

Each one is unique, full of history, has many amenities and is brimming with true Tuscan flavour. This is part of the fun! ***On occasion, due to inclement weather, your boat trip to Murano Island may be substituted with a visit to a local glass factory in Venice.

relax, we’re on it...

UNPACK LESS, ENJOY MORE PERFECTED TOUR PACING Most of our tours feature zero one-night hotel stays. It means you’ll spend the right amount of time in each destination and less time packing and unpacking.

GUARANTEED TO GO BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE Choose from many guaranteed departure dates.

Reserve with complete confidence as these selected departures are guaranteed to operate.

TRAVEL PROTECTION PEACE OF MIND Our industry-leading, worry-free travel protection plan offers you a full refund unlike many plans that only offer a voucher. Cancel for any reason right up to the day prior to departure.

PRIVATE CHAUFFEUR SERVICE INCLUDED PERSONAL TOUCHES Leave the hassle of getting to the airport behind. Enjoy round-trip home to airport chauffeur service with the purchase of air. It’s the perfect way to begin (and end) your journey.

For more information, contact James Jang, Where2Travel - Malvern CALL 03 9576 0166 EMAIL james@where2travel.com.au