Green Escapes of Istria and Slovenia 8 Days, Self-Drive
Tour Overview
Embark on an 8-day self-drive adventure through the stunning landscapes of Istria and Slovenia. Begin your journey in Pula, Croatia's largest city in Istria County, known for its beautiful beaches and Roman ruins. Explore the mesmerizing Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with breathtaking waterfalls and abundant wildlife. Continue to Ljubljana, Europe's greenest and smallest capital, where the emerald-green river flows through the heart of the city. Discover Rijeka, the European Capital of Culture for 2020, rich in industrial and maritime heritage. Enjoy the freedom of unlimited mileage and the comfort of selected accommodations as you uncover the cultural and natural treasures of these enchanting regions. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : ARRIVAL PULA
Location: Pula
Accommodation Name: Hotel Pula or similar 3*
Arrive at Pula Airport, meet and greet by our local representative who will assist you with your car hire and inform you how to proceed on your departure day. Drive to your hotel for check-in and explore the largest town on the Istrian peninsula. It offers a diversity of attractions to lovers of culture, history and gastronomy. Optionally you can book our two-hour Pula city tour and explore the hidden corners of this ancient city with a private guide.
Overnight in Pula.
Day 2 : PULA
Location: Pula
Accommodation Name: Hotel Pula or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before you´ll start exploring Pula. Pula is to Croatia what Rome is to Italy. There is no hiding the city’s main attraction – an enormous Roman Amphitheatre. Wandering around the remnants of ancient history, you’ll be able to picture gladiators fight in the blood-soaked dust.
Overnight in Pula.
Day 3 : PULA – LJUBLJANA, SLOVENIA (105 km – 2.5 hrs)
Location: Ljubljana
Accommodation Name: Hotel City Ljubljana or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast
After your leisure breakfast at the hotel, check-out from your hotel and follow your drive to Slovenia, natural paradise on Earth. You´ll be driving along the green-rivers, turquoise coastlines and snowy mountains until you reach Ljubljana, the smallest capital city in Europe. Check in to your hotel and start exploring this political and cultural heart of the Slovenian nation. Alternatively, you can book our optional 2 hours Ljubljana city tour and discover the city gems with a private guide.
Overnight in Ljubljana.
Day 4 : LJUBLJANA
Location: Ljubljana
Accommodation Name: Hotel City Ljubljana or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel is followed by leisure day in Ljublana. Walk along the streets and admire the legacy of Roman Emona, through to the Renaissance, Baroque and Art Nouveau periods. Take an inside of the Slovenian gastronomy at one of the local restaurants and find cultural events, open-air markets, bike lanes or shopping areas of this vibrant city. Perhaps you´ll feel like hiking or cycling, as Ljubljana area offers many hiking and biking paths in the heart of the city or in the close surroundings, or take a water raft experience in one of the adventure centre.
Overnight in Ljubljana.
Day 5 : LJUBLJANA – PLITVICE (205 km – 3.15 hrs)
Location: Plitvice Lakes National Park
Accommodation Name: Hotel Mirni Kutak (Otocac) or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Begin the day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel and prepare yourself to depart towards Plitvice Lakes National Park, a must-see natural wonder in Croatia and a UNESCO’s World Heritage Site. Surrounded by dense woods and characterised by its rich flora and fauna, Plitvice Lakes are a natural phenomenon of rare and unique beauty. Stroll the paradisiacal paths of the park, admire the magnificent lakes, the beautiful cascading waterfalls, and the whole picturesque image of nature. Take your time and relax, getting ready for a comfortable night spent at your selected hotel in Plitvice. Alternatively, you can book our 4-hour optional tour, Plitvice National Park tour and with a company of an English speaking guide wonder around this natural gem.
Overnight in Plitvice.
Day 6 : PLITVICE – RIJEKA (180 km – 2.15 hrs)
Location: Rijeka
Accommodation Name: Hotel Lovran (Lovran) or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast
After the breakfast at the hotel, check-out and drive to your following destination, the colourful blend of Italian and Habsburg legacy, Rijeka. Commonly known as Port of diversity, Rijeka is a city full of cultural and entertainment possibilities, and you may choose to see the country’s biggest carnival, when thousands of masks participate on the parade along the main street, Korzo.
Overnight in Rijeka.
Day 7 : RIJEKA
Location: Rijeka
Accommodation Name: Hotel Lovran (Lovran) or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel and jump up for your following exploration of the beautiful region of Rijeka. Don´t miss to visit Trsat Castle and take a drive to other little charming villages around Rijeka, such as Mošćenice, Veprinac or Kastav and try local dishes in the well-known restaurants in Mošćenička Draga and Volosko. Optionally, you can book our optional 2-hours Opatja city tour (30 minutes driving from Rijeka) and get an inside of another vibrant city of Croatia.
Overnight in Rijeka.
Day 8 : RIJEKA – DEPARTURE PULA (110 km – 2 hrs)
Location: Rijeka
Meals Included: Breakfast
Spend your last morning in Croatia savouring your breakfast. After check-out from your hotel and drive back to Pula Airport where you will return the rental car and prepare for your return flight.
What's Included
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Accommodation
7 nights' accommodation in various hotels, with options for standard or superior categories.
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Meals
7 breakfasts are included.
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Car Hire
Car hire with unlimited mileage, CDW (Collision Damage Waiver), TP (theft protection), replacement vehicle in case of accident or breakdown, safety equipment, airport fees, and tax & VAT.
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Meet and Greet
Meet and greet service on day 1.
What's Not Included
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Tour Guide
Tour guide services are not included.
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Flights
Domestic and international flights are not included.
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Entrance Fees and Activities
Any entrance fees and activities are not included.
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Meals Not Mentioned
All meals not mentioned in the included section are excluded.
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Optional Tours and Excursions
Optional tours and excursions are not included.
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Porterage and Gratuities
Porterage and gratuities are not included.
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Personal Expenditures
Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks, and meals or items not stated explicitly in the program are not included.
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Drinks and Camera Fees
Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, mineral water, and camera/video camera fees (if any) are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, accidents, etc., is not included.
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Car Hire Exclusions
GPS, baby seat/booster, 3rd driver, damage handling fee, fuel, tolls, young driver supplement, additional charges for missing fuel, extremely dirty vehicle, lost car documents, registration plates or keys, empty car battery, and parking fees are not included.
Requirements
Comfortable and warm clothing is the most suitable for travelling. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.
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Please Note
- Free upgrade to Car Group E for Triple Rooms
- Please note that CDW doesn’t cover: Tyre, undercarriage, interior & glass damages, Malfunctions and damages caused by wrong fuel, reckless driving, Damages caused by driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs or passing through red light, Damages caused by unauthorised driver
- Driver Requirements: Minimum age of the driver: 21 years, valid driver’s license and passport or ID and possession of the driver’s license at least 2 years.
- Credit card accepted (VISA, MASTERCARD, AMERICAN EXPRESS or DINERS)
- Any extras for the car hire can be booked only ON SPOT
- Early check-in, late check-out, connecting or adjoining rooms in the hotel are subject to availability and not guaranteed
- In many hotels the triple rooms are a double room with an additional bed or sofa bed. Their comfort conditions are lower than the international standards of the triple room
- No refund for unused services. Splitting of the package is not allowed
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1-2 Pula:
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Pula or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel category = Hotel Pula City or similar 4*
Day 3-4 Ljubljana (Slovenia):
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel City Ljubljana or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel City Ljubljana or similar 3*
Day 5 Plitvice region:
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Mirni Kutak (Otocac) or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Mirjana Rastoke (Slunj) or similar 4*
Day 6-7 Opatija region:
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Lovran (Lovran) or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Savoy or similar 4*
CAR HIRE OPTIONS
- Car Group C = VWGolf, Opel Astra w/ AC or similar
- Car Group E = VW Passat, Opel Insignia or similar
Mode of Transport
This self-drive tour includes car hire options such as VW Golf, Opel Astra, VW Passat, or Opel Insignia with unlimited mileage, CDW, TP, and safety equipment. Drive through scenic routes and explore at your own pace.
Accommodation
Enjoy 7 nights' accommodation with options ranging from 3-star to 4-star hotels. Stay in Pula, Ljubljana, Plitvice region, and Opatija region, with comfortable and well-appointed rooms to ensure a pleasant stay.
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1-2 Pula:
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Pula or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel category = Hotel Pula City or similar 4*
Day 3-4 Ljubljana (Slovenia):
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel City Ljubljana or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel City Ljubljana or similar 3*
Day 5 Plitvice region:
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Mirni Kutak (Otocac) or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Mirjana Rastoke (Slunj) or similar 4*
Day 6-7 Opatija region:
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Lovran (Lovran) or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Savoy or similar 4*
CAR HIRE OPTIONS
- Car Group C = VWGolf, Opel Astra w/ AC or similar
- Car Group E = VW Passat, Opel Insignia or similar
Check out our Q&As
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What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 7 nights' accommodation with options for both standard and superior hotel categories. In Pula, you can stay at Hotel Pula or similar 3* for standard and Hotel Pula City or similar 4* for superior. In Ljubljana, the options are Hotel City Ljubljana or similar 3* for both categories. In the Plitvice region, the standard option is Hotel Mirni Kutak (Otocac) or similar 3*, and the superior option is Hotel Mirjana Rastoke (Slunj) or similar 4*. In the Opatija region, the standard option is Hotel Lovran (Lovran) or similar 3*, and the superior option is Hotel Savoy or similar 4*. ...more ...less
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What meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes 7 breakfasts.
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What car hire options are available?
The car hire options include Car Group C, which features vehicles like VW Golf or Opel Astra with AC, and Car Group E, which includes vehicles like VW Passat or Opel Insignia.
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What is included in the car hire?
The car hire includes unlimited mileage, Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), theft protection (TP), a replacement vehicle in case of an accident or breakdown, safety equipment (first aid kit, triangle, high visibility vest, fire extinguisher), airport fees, and tax & VAT.
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What activities are available in Pula?
In Pula, you can explore the largest town on the Istrian peninsula, which offers a diversity of attractions for lovers of culture, history, and gastronomy. You can also book a two-hour Pula city tour to explore the hidden corners of this ancient city with a private guide.
-
What can I do in Ljubljana?
In Ljubljana, you can walk along the streets and admire the legacy of Roman Emona, through to the Renaissance, Baroque, and Art Nouveau periods. You can also enjoy Slovenian gastronomy at local restaurants, find cultural events, open-air markets, bike lanes, or shopping areas. Additionally, you can go hiking or cycling, as Ljubljana offers many hiking and biking paths, or take a water raft experience at an adventure center.
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What is special about Plitvice Lakes National Park?
Plitvice Lakes National Park is a must-see natural wonder in Croatia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is surrounded by dense woods and characterized by its rich flora and fauna. The park features magnificent lakes, beautiful cascading waterfalls, and picturesque natural scenery. You can stroll the paradisiacal paths of the park and admire its unique beauty.
-
What can I explore in Rijeka?
In Rijeka, you can explore the colorful blend of Italian and Habsburg legacy. Known as the Port of Diversity, Rijeka offers cultural and entertainment possibilities, including the country's biggest carnival. You can also visit Trsat Castle and drive to charming villages around Rijeka, such as Mošćenice, Veprinac, or Kastav, and try local dishes in well-known restaurants in Mošćenička Draga and Volosko.
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What are the exclusions in the tour?
The tour exclusions include a tour guide, domestic/international flights, any entrance fees and activities, all meals not mentioned in the included section, optional tours and excursions, porterage and gratuities, expenditures of a personal nature, drinks and meals or items not stated explicitly in the program, any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, mineral water, camera/video camera fee (if any), travel insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, accidents, etc. Car hire exclusions include GPS, baby seat/booster, 3rd driver, damage handling fee, fuel, tolls, young driver supplement, additional charges that may occur due to missing fuel (refuelling charge), extremely dirty vehicle, lost car documents, registration plates or keys, empty car battery (requiring towing service), and parking fees.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers
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When are there specific hotel names confirmed?
Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client's arrival
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Do you offer any travel insurance?
We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure.
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Are Visa fees included in the price?
No, visa fees are not included
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What does the price include?
What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.
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Is there any option for solo traveller?
Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.
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Are flights included in the tour?
No, they are not included
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.
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Low Deposit
Gulliver Travel requires a minimum deposit of 30% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of gulliver travel charges.
At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Green Escapes of Istria and Slovenia 8 Days, Self-Drive
8 Days Starting in Pula, Croatia and ending in Rijeka, Croatia
Visiting: Pula, Ljubljana, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Rijeka
Tour operator:
Tour code:
447995
Group Type:
Independent
Guide Type:
Self Guided
Age range:
10-99
