Enjoy unique customs in the historic center of Rovinj, Croatia

Jewels of the Adriatic Sea: Croatia and Italy Tour

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Customizable Itinerary

This is a sample itinerary to inspire a personalized trip designed with your travel specialist

Countries Visited

Croatia, Italy

Places Visited

Venice, Rovinj

Suggested Duration

8 Days

The old world charm of Venice and the Istria Peninsula will sparkle like precious gems during your Italy itinerary along the shores of the Adriatic Sea.  Walk in the footsteps of the Roman Empire and in the wake of the Venetian Republic as you delight in a customizable experience of the photogenic woodlands and the crystal clear turquoise of the Adriatic. Ride a gondola along narrow canals and then stroll down the cobbled lanes of a medieval hilltop fortress. Sip wine from a family estate...

Customizable Itinerary

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Trip Highlights

  • Experience the quiet drama of the Venetian lagoon with a private gondola ride along the secluded canals
  • Witness the gilded adornments of St. Mark’s Basilica, including the remarkable gold altarpiece crested with precious gems
  • Discover the chic boutiques, a preserved Roman amphitheater, and the home of Juliet Capulet while touring Verona, Italy
  • Wander the cobbled streets of the largest town on the Istrian Peninsula at Pula to find Roman ruins and a 19th-century Austro-Hungarian naval port
  • Indulge in the unique customs in the historical center of Rovinj, located on a former island that connects to the mainland
  • Visit the small hilltop towns of Groznjan and Momjan that overlook the lush valleys to enjoy the culture and sample the wine and olive oil on a family estate
  • Witness the grand palaces of Venice designed to impress visitors from around the globe while on a private cruise on the Grand Canal
  • Traverse the elegant seaside promenade of Opatija and dip into the refreshing waters of the Adriatic Sea in secluded coves

Detailed Description

The marvels of the Adriatic Sea embody prestigious histories and vibrant culture with opulent palaces and idyllic scenery. Enjoy an immersive 8-day Italy itinerary that will encompass Venice and the Istrian Peninsula in Croatia. Your journey will begin with your arrival at Marco Polo Airport in Venice. Your private transfer will escort you to the docks along the Grand Canal where you will board your boat. Relish a private tour of the waters of the Grand Canal to view the opulent palaces and remarkable bridges that demonstrate the city’s historic prosperity. You will disembark at your hotel then enjoy dinner in the comforts of a gourmet restaurant that will bring your first taste of Venetian cuisine.

Wake the next morning, and your guide will greet you at your hotel and escort you through the fabled beauty of St. Mark’s Square with the golden mosaics of the Basilica and the hidden chambers of the Doge’s Palace. Glide along the narrow and secluded canals of the city on a private gondola tour before indulging in the flavors of the city with a gourmet dinner accompanied by a glass of Prosecco. The following day, you will travel with your guide to the historical center of Verona to discover the ancient Roman artifacts, dramatic castles, and the home of Juliet Capulet from Shakespeare’s tragic love story before returning to Venice for the evening.

The next day, your private transfer will escort you away from the city on the lagoon and across the borders of Slovenia and Croatia to reach the seaside town of Rovinj. Settle into the comforts of your hotel that overlooks the Adriatic before embarking on a walking tour of the historical city center. Travel next to Pula, the largest town on the Istrian Peninsula, to explore the Roman amphitheater and medieval architecture. Explore the peninsula more the following day with a visit to the hilltop town of Groznjan.

Tour the fortress and quiet medieval streets before transferring to Momjan, and then stroll along a vineyard and olive orchard to learn about the history of wine and olive oil in the region. Sample the seductive flavors before returning to Rovinj. The next day will be at your leisure to bask in the beauty of Rovinj or traverse the marvels of the peninsula at your preferred pace. Visit the fishing village of Opatija or visit the castle at Pajin before your vacation concludes with your private transfer there to greet you at your hotel and escort you back to Venice, Italy for your flight home.  You could also extend your travel, so find inspiration from our other travelers as their travel reviews for Italy provide more ideas and inspiration.

Starting Price

$2,467 per person (excluding international flights)

Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.

What's Included

  • Accommodations
  • In-country transportation
  • Some or all activities and tours
  • Expert trip planning
  • 24x7 support during your trip

Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.

Reviews of Zicasso's Referral Service

4.87 stars based on 99 reviews.

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