Croatia and Slovenia Culinary tour
Discover Croatia, Slovenia, and the Culinary Heritage of Istria
Tour Highlights
The Taste of Istria culture and culinary tour invites you to explore Croatia’s and Slovenia’s charming towns and uncover the hidden beauty and flavours of the Istrian Peninsula.
Istria's Hilltop Towns
Stroll through medieval villages and experience the warmth of Istrian farmhouses.
Istria's Famed Gastronomy
Taste the region’s prized wines, cheeses, and truffle products directly from local producers.
Coastal Beauty
Let Istria’s coastal towns captivate you with their elegance and understated charm.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Zagreb, Croatia
Check-in and relax in your hotel in Zagreb before meeting your Tour Host and fellow travelers over a welcome dinner. Tonight, you’ll get your first taste of Croatian cuisine and hospitality, setting the stage for an incredible journey ahead.
Welcome Dinner | Hilton Garden Inn Zagreb or Similar
Day 2: Discover Zagreb and Samobor
This morning, enjoy a guided walking tour through Zagreb’s historic center. Visit some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including St. Mark’s Church with its iconic tiled roof, the Stone Gate, and the Croatian Parliament building, located in Zagreb’s charming Upper Town. Enjoy a delicious lunch and a quick stop in Samobor, a delightful old town and local weekend getaway. In the afternoon, travel to Ljubljana, Slovenia’s green and inviting capital, for a free evening to explore at your own pace.
Driving time: ~2.5 hrs | Breakfast, Lunch | Hotel Vander Urbani Resort or Similar
Day 3: Lake Bled and the Beauty of Central Slovenia
Today, journey to Lake Bled, one of Slovenia’s most picturesque spots, where you’ll take in views of the lake and its island church in the middle. Visit Bled Castle, Slovenia’s oldest medieval fortress, offering spectacular views of the area as well as insight into Slovenian history.
After lunch by the lake, return to Ljubljana for a guided walking tour. Discover the city’s unique architecture, including the iconic Dragon Bridge, and the riverside cafes that give the city its cheerful atmosphere.
Driving time: ~2.5 hrs | Breakfast, Lunch | Hotel Vander Urbani Resort or Similar
Day 4: Welcome to Istria
Begin your journey into the Istrian Peninsula with a visit to Piran, a Slovenian coastal town known for its Venetian charm. Enjoy free time to wander through the narrow streets, visit Tartini Square, named after the famous violinist Giuseppe Tartini, and enjoy Piran’s relaxed, seaside atmosphere. Proceed to Croatian Istria for a wine-tasting experience and a countryside lunch. Proceed to Rovinj – “Istria’s crown jewel” – for an orientation tour. Overnight in Rovinj.
Driving time: ~3,5 hrs | Breakfast, Wine Tasting & Lunch | Boutique Hotel Lili or Similar
Day 5: Idyllic Hilltop Towns & Istrian Truffles
Discover inland Istria beginning with a truffle hunting experience and the chance to try and purchase locally produced truffle products. Proceed to Motovun and enjoy the panoramic views walking the famed City Walls. Enjoy free time for walks and lunch – perhaps you can try some truffle dishes in restaurants, recommended by your guide. Proceed to Grožnjan, a medieval hilltop town known for its art galleries and creative spirit, before returning to your hotel for a relaxed evening and overnight.
Driving time: ~2,5 hrs | Breakfast | Truffle Hunting Expereince | Boutique Hotel Lili or Similar
Day 6: Pula's Roman Heritage & Olive Oil Tatsing
This morning, travel to Pula, a coastal city renowned for its impressive Roman heritage. Visit the Pula Arena, one of the world’s best-preserved Roman amphitheaters, still used today for concerts and cultural events. Stroll through the lively Pula Market, where locals gather daily to shop for seafood and fresh produce.
Today, you’ll also sample Istrian olive oils directly from local producers and discover why this region is recognized as one of the world’s top olive oil-producing areas. Return to your hotel for a leisurely afternoon.
Driving time: ~2,5 hrs | Breakfast, Lunch | Olive Oil Tasting | Boutique Hotel Lili or Similar
Day 7: Labin and Opatija
This morning, travel to Labin – a hilltop town of beautiful historic architecture, lots of culture, and some of the best sea views in Istria. Stroll through the town’s narrow streets and visit local art studios before heading to the coastal resort town of Opatija, known for its Belle Époque architecture and scenic promenade. Today, you will also enjoy a guided cheese tasting and learn about traditional cheesemaking practices along Istria’s famed Cheese Route.
This afternoon, make your way back to Zagreb for a farewell dinner as a group, sharing stories about your experience-rich journey in Croatia and Slovenia.
Driving time: ~4.5 hrs | Breakfast, Dinner | Cheese Tasting | Hilton Garden Inn Zagreb or Similar
Day 8: Goodbye, Dear Travellers
Your tour comes to an end – it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow travellers. Take some time to explore Zagreb’s museums or cafes, or begin your onward journey. See you next time!
Breakfast & Goodbyes
INCLUSIONS
What's included
- 7 nights in 4-star hotels throughout the tour
- Daily breakfast
- 4 lunches and 2 dinners (not including drinks)
- Professional Tour Host throughout the tour
- Transportation in luxury air-conditioned coach (not including airport transfers)
- Admission to iconic sites: to Motovun City Walls, Pula Arena, Temple of Augustus
- Special Experiences: Truffle Hunt & Truffle Products Tasting, Olive Oil Tasting, Istria Wine Tour & Tasting, Cheese Tasting
EXclusions
Not included
- Flights to and from the destination
- Visas and passport fees
- Arrival and departure airport transfers
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Bevarages and meals outside of those described
- Gratuities for Driver, Tour Host and Local Guides: for guidelines, please click here
Dates & Prices
*Before booking, feel free to check our Terms & Conditions to see what applies to this tour.
April 26 - May 2, 2026 Popular Choice
Double Room Occupancy: EUR €1,890
Single Room Supplement: EUR €410
Oct 31 - Nov 7, 2026
Double Room Occupancy: EUR €1,890
Single Room Supplement: EUR €410
Croatia & Slovenia Culinary Tour FAQs
Is this tour suitable for me?
If you enjoy cultural sightseeing but are also into rustic culinary experiences — truffle hunting, tasting local cheeses, olive oil, and wine — then this tour is perfect for you! We’ll be walking at a moderate pace through hilltop towns, cobbles, and vineyards, so bring comfortable shoes and enjoy the journey on foot.
Where is Istria, and what makes it special?
Istria is a peninsula in the northern Adriatic, shared by Croatia, Slovenia, and a small part of Italy. Most of it lies in Croatia, with the Slovenian part stretching toward the coast near Koper and Piran. What makes Istria special is its mix of Mediterranean landscapes, hilltop towns, and various cultural influences.
It’s also one of the best culinary regions in Europe, known for truffles, olive oil, wine, seafood, and traditional pasta, all rooted in local, seasonal ingredients. Unlike more crowded coastal destinations, Istria still feels personal and connected to the land.
How did Istria become a famous culinary region?
Istria’s culinary reputation goes back much further than recent tourism trends. In the late 19th and early 20th century, when Istria was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, it became a holiday escape for Viennese nobility and aristocrats, who came for the mild climate—and the food. Coastal towns like Opatija and Piran catered to the elite with fresh seafood, fine wines, and Italian-influenced cuisine. Inland, wealthy visitors were introduced to local olive oils, wild game, and early versions of truffle-based dishes.
This connection between local farmers, foragers, and high-end kitchens never really faded and today, Istria is still considered one of Europe’s most vibrant culinary regions.
Will I see anything besides Istria?
Yes — this tour includes guided tours of two capital cities: Zagreb (Croatia), and Ljubljana (Slovenia). These are some of Europe’s most lovely yet underrated capitals —walkable, green, and full of beautiful architecture.
You’ll also visit Lake Bled, Slovenia’s postcard-perfect alpine lake, known not only for its setting but also for its famous Bled cream cake, a local dessert that’s been served here for decades.
Should I carry cash or rely on card payments in Croatia and Slovenia?
What are the visa requirements?
Visa requirements for both depend on your nationality. Citizens from many countries, including those from the EU, USA, Canada, and Australia, do not require a visa for short stays (up to 90 days) within the Schengen Area, which includes both countries.
While these are the general guidelines, it is essential to confirm the visa requirements with your local authorities, as rules may change. Travellers from certain countries may need to apply for an e-Visa or a traditional visa before arrival.
Please, ensure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your entry date. We recommend consulting your local embassy or consulate for the most accurate information.
Can I join as a solo traveller?
Many of our participants are solo travellers, and you’ll have the opportunity to connect with others. You can choose to be paired with another solo traveller (subject to availability) or opt for a single room supplement.
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
We can accommodate most dietary needs, but please inform us at the time of booking to ensure we can make the necessary arrangements.
What if I need to cancel?
Our cancellation policy is flexible, and partial refunds may be available. For details, please refer to our Terms and Conditions page. We strongly recommend getting travel insurance for such cases.
Discover Other Tours
- Zagreb, Croatia
- 8 Days
- From €1890
- Culture & Culinary