This flagship 5 nights program is perfect for first time guests of Slovenia. Program includes return air tickets from/to Washington DC, return airport transfers, 5 nights accommodation in selected hotels with many unique experiences. Tour ends in Venice with city tour for more experience. Tour is guided in English language by national licensed guide.
Discover Slovenia, a hidden gem of Europe
Slovenia is half the size of Switzerland and claims a smaller population than Greater Manchester but that doesn’t stop this diminutive country in the south part of central Europe standing out from the crowd as one of Europe’s leading tourist destinations. Some would say that it is despite its size, but we like to think that it is partly because of this.
Let Slovenia take your breath away!
This program was exclusively designed for International Club of DC by
Matte&Matej, luxuryslovenia.eu tour designes
[email protected]
Flight details:
TK008 13MAY IADIST 2325 1640*
TK1055 14MAY ISTZAG 1820 1925 + 1
TK1870 19MAY VCEIST 1920 2245*
TK007 20MAY ISTIAD 1340 1810
*This program inculdes overnight in Istanbul including transfers & accommodation.
Day by day program:
Day 1, 14. May /Thursday/ Welcome to Slovenia
- Meet & Greet by Imperial City Concierge at Zagreb international airport at 19:25
- Private transfer to Balnea SPA hotel
- Check in Balnea SPA hotel
- Welcome dinner in hotel
- Overnight in Balnea hotel
Welcome to Slovenia / Upon arrival at Zagreb international airport, you will meet your City Angel. Literally. You will be greeted by your personal concierge - the Imperial City Concierge. We brought him to ensure you have a comfortable stay throughout your all 6 day stay, guiding you through unforgettable adventures, bringing your wishes to life, and helping create an unforgettable experience in the embrace of perfection. Personal transfer service / Your driver will be ready for you in front of the airport terminal, and your Imperial City Concierge will escort you to your transfer.
Day 2, 15. May 2015 /Friday/ Capital of Slovenia
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Morning free time for your-self or optional SPA visit
- Drive to Otočec Castle hotel for lunch
- Drive to Ljubljana (cca 45 minutes)
- Check in Vander hotel
- Welcome drink with your tour designer and program presentation in Vander hotel terrace
- “Under the bridges” Ljubljanica river boat ride
- Emona 2000 private guided tour
- Traditional Slovenian dinner in JB restaurant (optional)
- Overnight in Ljubljana hotel
Otočec castle / The country's only castle completely surrounded by water Home to the de Werde noblemen in the 13th century, who were also known as the Knights of Otočec, this castle is the only one in Slovenia that sits on a river island. The magnificent castle on the river Krka was for centuries both a stronghold and a gracious home to numerous noble families. Its most prominent inhabitants, apart from the Knights of Otočec, were the Villanders nobles of Tyrol, captain of Žumberak Uskoks Ivan Lenkovič, and the noble Janez Sonce, who is also the central character in a narrative by Ivan Tavčar. Before World War II the castle was owned by the House of Marghieri de Commadona.
Ljubljana / Ljubljana’s unique character is mainly due to the felicitous mixture of two very different but complementary features: on one hand, the city is famed for its historical heritage and traditions; on the other, it is a relatively young city with a modern lifestyle (the average age of its residents is only slightly above 30). Ljubljana is visited by scientists attracted by the international reputation of its university, world renowned artists fascinated by its vibrant and creative spirit, businessmen attending business meetings and trade exhibitions, and international experts attracted by the conferences held in the city.
Boat ride / No trip to Ljubljana is complete without taking a water-based tour, and the handmade wooden boat operated by the young team at Laker Craft is easily the most attractive of all the crafts plying the waters of the Ljubljanica. A ride lasts just under an hour, and offers views of most of the old town's major sights from a unique vantage point. The 10m flat-bottomed vessel is constructed of solid larch and oak wood, and can host up to 50 people at a time.
Experiencing the Roman city of Emona / In the company of a Roman legionary and a tourist guide, you will take a tour of Ljubljana's streets, squares, and buildings where the remains of 2000 years old Emona have survived to the present day. At a restaurant located in the vicinity of the former Roman forum you will have an opportunity to taste a Roman drink and dessert. The tour will include the remains of Emona’s northern city gate and burial ground in the present-day Kongresni trg square, an interactive presentation called iEmona, the City Museum of Ljubljana, which displays the remains of a Roman road and cloaca, the remnants of the city walls of Emona in the Mirje area of Ljubljana, the archaeological parks Emona House and Early Christian Centre, and a street performance offering a glimpse into the daily life of the Romans. During this guided tour of Roman Ljubljana you will put on Roman attire and get to know the daily life and customs of the residents of Emona, who lived on the site of Ljubljana 2,000 years ago.
JB restaurant / in downtown Ljubljana, Slovenia, is S.Pellegrino's Top 100 World's Best Restaurant. It’s the closest interpretation of a sophisticated pallet you'll ever experience in this region. Welcome to the world of culinary art of world renowned chef Janez Bratovz. His menu is based on the relationship between the four elements: Earth, Water, Air, and Fire, representing four tastes – sweet, salty, sour, and bitter.
Day 3, 16. May 2015 /Saturday/ To the Lake Bled & “President TITO” style dinner
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Ljubljana old town walk with guide
- Funicular ride to Ljubljana castle
- Visit castle multimedia museum
- Private tour of Ljubljana castle Time Machine
- Lunch in castle gourmet restaurant Strelec (optional)
- Drive to lake Bled
- Visit Bled Castle
- Private boat ride to the island on Lake Bled
- Visit of the church in the island / wish bell
- “President TITO” style dinner in hotel Toplice restaurant Julijana
- Drive back to Ljubljana
- Overnight in Ljubljana hotel
Ljubljana old town walk/ During the tour you will see most of Ljubljana top attractions. The guide will explaine you Ljubljana’s history and show you some of the nicest corners of Slovenia’s capital: The Town Hall, a walking tour of Plečnik’s architectural masterpieces, Križanke open-air teather, the Napoleon monument, Central Food market, Prešern square, Congress Square, Three Bridges, Dragon bridge and all the other prominent Ljubljana’s bridges in old part of Ljubljana … The old city centre of Ljubljana is remarkable for its unique architecture, owes its appearance to Baroque and Art Nouveau masters and, most of all, the architect Jože Plečnik.
Castle multimedia museum / The virtual walk along the Castle’s history will surprise visitors with its interesting content and a dynamic as well as instructive presentation of the history of the Ljubljana Castle, its architectural development and archaeological discoveries from the prehistoric times, late Bronze Age, the Classical Era, early Middle Ages, Middle Ages, Early Modern Period through to today. The Virtual Castle enables not only journeys into the past of the Ljubljana Castle, but also offers vast knowledge and deliberation on the development, intended use and cultural heritage of the Castle. The twelve-minute projection can be viewed in Slovenian, English, German, Italian, Croatian, Russian, French and Spanish language. Do not miss the view over Ljubljana and surrounding from Castle tower.
Ljubljana Castle tour – Time Machine / You will access the castle by funicular ride up t the castle. Ljubljana's most prominent landmark is Ljubljana Castle, which has undergone numerous changes over its rich and dynamic history. Time Machine: Six time stations, six costumed character, a Castle guide – more than just a classic guided tour of the Ljubljana castle. The “Time Machine” will lead you on a guided tour through six decisive periods that have marked the history of the Ljubljana Castle and the development of our city. At each of the “time stations”, you will be met by a figure who will present his or her period. You will meet Roman soldier from Roman Emona and St. George from early Middle Ages. You could not miss the emperor himself – Frederick III of the Hapsburgs – or his wife Eleanor Helena of Portugal. Be ready for the Napoleonic soldier or the nurse-nun from Illyrian Provinces. The 19th century was a dark period for the Ljubljana Castle, as you will discover when you visit the penitentiary. Finally, you will be greeted in the courtyard by the man who can take credit for the fact that the castle is today owned by the city – Mayor Ivan Hribar. If he is too busy, you will be greeted by his daughter Zlatica.
Strelec Restaurant / Perched high up in the archer's tower, Ljubljana castle's new restaurant overlooks the city from a grand position. A combination of the Roman Emona, Medieval and modern in terms of both cuisine and ambiance, the menu was created with the help of top ethnology professor Dr. Janez Bogataj. Historically reminiscent dishes of slick gourmet modernity are crafted with ingredients from Ljubljana's famed market by the star of the show: chef Igor Jagodic. Recognized as one of the top three chefs in Slovenia, he was previously at the renowned Vila Bled, and now takes care of the sublime offerings at Strelec.
Bled / With immense natural beauty, Bled, together with its surroundings, ranks among the most beautiful alpine resorts, renowned for its mild, healing climate and thermal lake water. The beauty of the mountains reflected on the lake, the sun, the serenity and the fresh air arouse pleasant feelings in visitors throughout the year, guaranteeing an ideal base or a relaxing break or an active holiday. Bled attracts businessmen, artists, athletes, explorers, sport enthusiasts, the old and the young, from all over the world, enchanting them to return again and again! In the middle of the lake there is an island with a beautiful church.
Bled Castle / The Bled Castle offers the finest view of the Bled island, the town of Bled and of the wider countryside of the Gorenjska region. Experience the picturesque architecture of the castle and the museum collection, representing the historical development of Bled, its culture and its population. Get familiar with the traditional manual technological procedures of printing in the castle printing shop, order a small bottle of wine and seal it with sealing wax in the castle cellar, and allow yourself to be healthy, feel better and delight yourself with natural products from the herbal gallery. Recover your strength in the castle restaurant and then visit the multivision. In summer months, the castle atmosphere is enlivened by the visit of a count and an archery tournament.
Pletna boat ride / Take a trip across the lake in the traditional Pletna boat and relax in the atmosphere. You will experience a private boat ride with Pletna to the Island of Bled. Just you in the boat alone with a oarsman. What is the Pletna boat? It is a traditional boat made by locals which is only known at Bled – the Pletna boat. The origins of the Pletna boat go back to 1590. The Pletna boat is a wooden flat-bottom boat with a pointed bow and the stern widened with a step to enable passengers to enter.The Pletna boat is operated by the Pletna oarsman. This profession is very respected as it cannot be performed just by anyone. The title of the Pletna oarsman was handed down from generation to generation. This is a must-try.
Bled Island / The most recognizable symbol of the lake is island and the Church of the Assumption with its long and diverse history, however the lush greenery also hides other interesting island buildings, like the bell-tower, church, chaplain's house, provost's house, small hermitage and some mysterious legends. In case you visit the island in just the right time, make time to witness a wedding in the romantic environment. As far as the wishing bell is concerned. Don't just watch it. Ring it.
Juliana Restaurant in Grand Hotel Toplice / The Julijana Restaurant is situated in Bled's oldest hotel, the elegant Grand Hotel Toplice. Thanks to its intimate atmosphere and enchanting views of the lake, the Julijana Restaurant is one of the most popular fine dinning restaurants on Bled. The restaurant has one of the best locations in Bled. Enjoy the breathtaking view over the lake and you will feel like you can touch the surface of the water. Chef of a restaurant is Simon Bertoncelj. He is one of the younger generation of Slovenian chefs. He strives for perfection and harmony of dishes and flavours. Simon Bertoncelj is a member of the Slovenian Culinary Olympics team.
Day 4, 17. May 2015 /Sunday/ UNESCO protected Škocijan Caves and Slovenian coast
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Drive to UNESCO protected Škocjan Caves
- Private entry to caves
- Drive to Slovene coast
- Visit city of Piran
- Time for lunch
- Visit Portorož
- Drive back to Ljubljana
- Diner reception with diplomats / mayor of Ljubljana (TBC)
- Overnight in Ljubljana hotel
Škocjan Caves / Are situated in the heart of Classical Karst where explorers for the first time ever started to discover and explore the karst phenomena. The most beautiful part of the Škocjan Caves Park is undoubtedly a set of eleven caves, colapsed dolines, ponors and natural bridges known as the Škocjan Caves. They are the most important underground phenomena of the Karst and on the opinion of international experts one of the most beautiful pearls on Earth. Therefore are since 1986 listed on UNESCO's World Heritage List and are the only Slovenian site on the list as natural heritage. Caves are also on the Ramsar Convention list (1999) as the first underground wetland and in Unesco's Man and Biosphere (MAB) (2004) research programm.
Piran town / The old seaport of Piran lies at the end of the Piran peninsula, which gradually narrows between the bays of Strunjan and Piran. The peninsula reaches Cape Madona, ending with the Šavrini hills. The meaning of the name Piran: elder scientists support the supposition that the origin could derive from the Celtic word bior-dun, supposed to mean a settlement on the hill, while younger generation advocates the explanation of the Greek word pyr – fire, as the original settlement was primarily used as a lighthouse for vessels sailing to nearby Greek colony Aegida on the site of today town Koper. The town has preserved the medieval layout with narrow streets and compact houses, which rise in steps from the coastal lowland into the hills and give the whole area a typical Mediterranean look.
Portorož / Portorož is settled on the coast of Piran bay. Due to its seaside location Portorož was known as a health resort since 13th century. That’s why Portorož is being host to more then one hundred years of spa tradition, Mediterranean climate and beautiful surrounding hills. Close to the Portorož lies Piran, a very special, precious city with architecture influenced by the Venetian Republic.
Day 5, 18. May 2015 /Monday/ Goriška Brda wine region with farewell dinner
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Morning free at leisure and time for your self
- After lunch drive to Goriška Brda wine region
- Visit Goriška Brda
- Private wine degustation
- Home made farewell dinner
- Overnight in Goriška Brda hotel
Goriška Brda / Are the most western part of Slovenia. Brda region is known of wines, olives and fruit. The region offers you many opportunities for wine testing and local gastronomy experiences. Wide range of high-quality wines, tempting flavours of Mediterranean cuisine, healthy, fresh and home-made Brda food, high-quality olive oil and fruit, the Brda region also offers numerous opportunities to spend active leisure time in the nature. For example you can explore the region on electric bikes. As well you can take a full day to relax, go for a walk around the wine yards or socialize with the locals.
Day 6, 19. May 2015 /Tuesday/ Venice to Istanbul
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Drive to Venice
- City tour of Venice
- Time for lunch (optional Aman hotel Grand Canal)
- Drive to Venice airport for final departure at 19:20 from Venice Airport
- Arrive to Istanbul at 22:45 and transfer to city hotel
- Overnight in Istanbul
Venice / is a city in northeastern Italy sited on a group of 118 small islands separated by canals and linked by bridges. It is located in the marshy Venetian Lagoon which stretches along the shoreline, between the mouths of the Po and the Piave Rivers. Venice is renowned for the beauty of its setting, its architecture and its artworks. The city in its entirety is listed as a World Heritage Site, along with its lagoon.
Venice is one of the most important tourist destinations in the world for its celebrated art and architecture. In this tour you will have to see the top Venice attractions, especially if you are first-time visitor. You'll visit St Mark's Basilica in St Mark's Square alongside other famous highlights, and discover the 'real Venice' as you enter a labyrinth of narrow passageways and alleys.
Tourism has been a major sector of Venetian industry since the 18th century, when it was a major center for the Grand Tour, with its beautiful cityscape, uniqueness, and rich musical and artistic cultural heritage. In the 19th century, it became a fashionable centre for the rich and famous, often staying or dining at luxury establishments such as the Danieli Hotel and the Caffè Florian. It continued being a fashionable city in vogue right into the early 20th century. In the 1980s, the Carnival of Venice was revived and the city has become a major centre of international conferences and festivals, such as the prestigious Venice Biennale and the Venice Film Festival, which attract visitors from all over the world for their theatrical, cultural, cinematic, artistic, and musical productions.
Today, there are numerous attractions in Venice, such as St Mark's Basilica, the Grand Canal, and the Piazza San Marco. The Lido di Venezia is also a popular international luxury destination, attracting thousands of actors, critics, celebrities, and mainly people in the cinematic industry. The city also relies heavily on the cruise business.
Day 7, 20. May 2015 /Wednesday/ Back to USA
- Breakfast at the hotel in Istanbul
- Drive to Istanbul airport for departure flight TK 007 at 13:40
- Arrival to Washington at 18:10
