10 Nights / 11 Days
Europe is full of enchanting destinations, but few places bring history, nature, and adventure together quite like Slovenia and Croatia. Imagine your children chasing dragons through Ljubljana, cycling past vineyards in Istria, or stepping into a world of ancient caves, medieval castles, and seaside safaris.
This 11-day itinerary is designed for families seeking hands-on experiences, interactive learning, and just the right balance of adventure and relaxation. Whether it’s truffle hunting, kayaking on crystal-clear lakes, or sailing to hidden islands, this journey promises awe-inspiring landscapes, cultural gems, and plenty of “wow” moments for both kids and parents.
- 2 Nights in Ljubljana, Slovenia
- 2 Nights in Bohinj, Slovenia
- 4 Nights in Istria, Croatia
- 2 Nights in Zagreb, Croatia
- Ljubljana City & Castle Tour
- Vogel Mountain Adventure
- Slovenian Farm Experience
- Truffle Hunt in Istria
- Škocjan Caves Exploration
- Cycling Along the Parenzana Trail
- Brijuni National Park Safari
- City Tour & Cooking Class in Zagreb
- Private Transfers
Day 1 — Welcome to Ljubljana: A Fairytale Capital Awaits
From the moment you arrive in Ljubljana, Slovenia’s capital welcomes your family like a scene straight from a storybook. A private transfer takes you to your elegant boutique hotel, where you can settle in before venturing out on foot to explore the magical Old Town.
As you wander along the Ljubljanica River, crossing the iconic Triple Bridge, your children will be on the lookout for the legendary dragons of Ljubljana—hidden on statues, buildings, and even the city’s emblem. Stop at Prešeren Square, where street musicians add a lively soundtrack to the city’s buzzing atmosphere.
In the evening, enjoy a cozy Slovenian dinner at a family-friendly restaurant, where you can try warm buckwheat dumplings, tender roast meats, and creamy štruklji, a delicious introduction to Slovenia’s culinary heritage.
- Family Fun Challenge: Who can spot the most dragon symbols throughout the city?
Day 2 — Castles, Illusions & A Step Back in Time
Start your day with a funicular ride up to Ljubljana Castle, perched high above the city with breathtaking views of red-roofed buildings and rolling green hills. Join the Time Machine Tour, where costumed actors transport you through centuries of Slovenian history, making knights, princesses, and medieval rulers come to life.
After exploring the castle, visit the Museum of Illusions, where you and your kids will defy gravity, walk on walls, and step into infinity tunnels. It’s a place where science meets fun, sparking endless curiosity and contagious giggles.
- Evening Option: Attend a puppet theater show, one of Ljubljana’s most beloved traditions.
- Optional Experience: Take a sunset boat ride on the Ljubljanica River, a magical way to end the day.
Day 3 — Vogel Mountain Adventure: Soaring Above the Julian Alps
Leave the city behind as you head to Bohinj Lake to check into your selected hotel and then to the Vogel Mountain in Triglav National Park, a paradise for outdoor explorers. A thrilling cable car ride sweeps you up the mountainside, where jaw-dropping views of Lake Bohinj and the Julian Alps unfold before your eyes.
At the summit, your children can run through open meadows, breathe in the fresh alpine air, and admire the panoramic scenery, while you take in the stunning surroundings.
Lunch is a rustic mountain feast in a traditional Slovenian hut, featuring hearty homemade stews, fresh-baked bread, and creamy local cheeses.
Choose Your Own Adventure:
- A gentle family-friendly hike with hidden waterfalls and storybook views.
- A canoe ride on Lake Bohinj, where the water is so clear it reflects the sky like a mirror.
Day 4 — A Day on the Farm: Feed the Animals, Milk the Cows, and Taste Slovenia’s Flavors
Today, the family steps into the rhythm of rural life with a visit to a working Slovenian farm. Kids collect fresh eggs, bottle-feed baby goats, and even try their hand at milking cows, while parents chat with local farmers and taste organic homemade cheeses, jams, and breads.
Why Kids Love It:
- Getting their hands dirty with real farm chores.
- Making friends with sheep, ponies, and bunnies.
- Enjoying homemade Slovenian treats fresh from the farm.
- The afternoon is left open for relaxing by Lake Bohinj, kayaking, or taking a gentle nature walk.
Day 5 — Underground Marvels & The Road to Croatia
Today’s adventure takes you deep beneath the earth into the Škocjan Caves, a UNESCO-listed wonderland of towering rock formations and underground waterfalls. The highlight is crossing a dramatic suspension bridge high above a roaring subterranean river, a thrilling moment that feels straight out of an adventure movie.
By the afternoon, you arrive in Istria, Croatia, where rolling vineyards, olive groves, and medieval villages create a picture-perfect setting for the next chapter of your journey. We suggest you base your stay in Rovinj.
Day 6 — Truffle Hunting in Istria: A Treasure Hunt in the Woods
This morning, step into a real-life treasure hunt as you venture deep into the forests of Istria on a truffle-hunting adventure. Unlike gold and jewels, this hidden treasure is buried beneath the earth—prized black and white truffles, waiting to be unearthed.
Guided by a local truffle hunter and their specially trained dogs, your family will follow the scent through dense woodlands, watching as the dogs eagerly sniff out these rare and valuable fungi. The moment the first truffle is found, excitement fills the air—your children will love watching the dogs dig up their discovery, and maybe even get a chance to brush away the soil and hold a truffle in their hands.
After the hunt, reward yourselves with a delicious truffle-infused feast, featuring homemade pasta, cheeses, and freshly shaved truffle over warm bread.
Why Kids Love It:
- It’s a real-life treasure hunt with adorable dogs leading the way.
- They get hands-on experience digging in the dirt and learning about truffles.
- A delicious feast awaits at the end, where they can taste the truffles they helped find!
Day 7 — Cycling Along the Parenzana Trail: A Ride Through Time
Get ready for a family-friendly cycling adventure along one of the most scenic routes in Croatia—the Parenzana Trail, a former railway that has been transformed into a picturesque biking path. Winding through rolling vineyards, medieval villages, and ancient olive groves, this trail is ideal for families as it offers gentle terrain and breathtaking views at every turn.
As you pedal along the route, you’ll pass stone bridges, hidden tunnels, and countryside landscapes straight out of a painting. Along the way, stop in a charming hilltop village for a break—maybe a refreshing homemade lemonade for the kids and a shot of Istrian olive oil for the grown-ups (yes, the locals sip it like fine wine!).
After returning to Rovinj, let your children guide the way as they search for hidden alleys, small local art galleries, and vibrant market stalls. End the day with gelato by the sea, watching boats bob in the harbor as the sun sets over the Adriatic’s shimmering waters.
Day 8 — Brijuni National Park: A Safari Island Like No Other
Today, set sail on a private boat ride to Brijuni National Park, a hidden archipelago off the coast of Istria. Unlike any other place in Croatia, Brijuni is home to ancient Roman ruins, wild roaming peacocks, and a safari park filled with exotic animals—a true blend of history, nature, and adventure.
Upon arrival, hop on an open-air safari train that will take you on a journey through the park, passing elephants, zebras, giraffes, and deer roaming freely. The kids will be in awe at the sight of exotic animals living on this tiny Adriatic island.
After the safari, let your family’s inner explorers roam through ancient Roman ruins, where you’ll find remnants of grand villas, mosaics, and even a 160-million-year-old dinosaur footprint.
Why Kids Love It:
- A safari adventure with real-life zebras, elephants, and peacocks on a Croatian island.
- A chance to step into the footprints of dinosaurs.
- The boat ride to the island feels like an adventure in itself.
Day 9 — Travel to Zagreb: A City of Hidden Courtyards and Timeless Charm
Today, leave the coastal landscapes behind and travel to Zagreb, Croatia’s vibrant capital. Upon arrival and hotel check in, take a family-friendly walking tour of the Old Town, where you’ll uncover Zagreb’s best-kept secrets—hidden courtyards, legendary street murals, and lively open-air markets.
Begin at Ban Jelačić Square, where the city hums with energy, before heading up to St. Mark’s Church, one of Zagreb’s most photographed landmarks thanks to its colorful tiled roof depicting the medieval coat of arms of Croatia.
Next, take a ride on the world’s shortest funicular, a fun and quirky 58-second journey that whisks you up to Zagreb’s Upper Town for breathtaking panoramic views.
Day 10 — Hands-On Fun in Zagreb: A Cooking Class & Cultural Exploration
For families who love interactive cultural experiences, opt for a hands-on Croatian cooking class in the afternoon. Under the guidance of a local chef, you’ll roll out traditional pasta, prepare flaky štrukli (Croatian cheese-filled pastries), and learn the secrets of slow-cooked peka—a beloved dish baked under an iron bell.
The best part? Sitting down together at the end of the class and enjoying the meal you’ve created as a family, savoring your last night in Croatia with a true taste of its culinary heritage.
Day 11 — Farewell to Croatia
After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to Croatia. With suitcases packed full of Istrian truffle souvenirs, handcrafted keepsakes, and countless unforgettable memories, your family heads to Zagreb Airport for the journey home.
This trip may be over, but the stories, laughter, and experiences you’ve shared will stay with you forever.
