Slovenia & The Gulf of Trieste
This 7-night Escorted Tour offers an excellent opportunity for Irish travellers to discover the diverse landscapes of Slovenia and the Italian border. Departing from Dublin, you will fly directly to Venice before being transferred to the charming seaside resort of Portorož. Your base for the week is the 4-star Hotel Histrion, where you will stay on a half-board basis. This tour is perfectly organised to show you the highlights of the region, from the sparkling Adriatic coast to the majestic mountains and glacial lakes of the interior.
One of the most recognisable stops on this itinerary is Lake Bled. You will visit this stunning glacial lake and take a boat trip to the island at its centre, which is home to a historic church and a famous staircase of 99 steps. The tour also explores the capital city of Ljubljana, known for its green spaces and vibrant riverbank atmosphere. For those who enjoy natural wonders, the visit to the Postojna Caves is a highlight; here, you will board a special cave train to explore a vast network of underground passages and tunnels. Nearby, the dramatic Predjama Castle, built directly into a cliff face, provides a fascinating glimpse into the history of the region.
The tour also ventures across the border into Italy to see the Slovenia Gulf of Trieste. You will visit the impressive Miramare Castle, which stands on a cliff high above the water, followed by a guided walk through the city of Trieste itself. Back on the Slovenian coast, a panoramic boat trip between Portorož and the fishing town of Izola offers a fresh perspective on the cliffs and coastal architecture. With two full days of leisure time included, you can choose to unwind in the local spas or explore the nearby town of Piran at your own speed. This is a factual, well-paced holiday that provides great value for those looking to see the culture and scenery of Eastern Europe in comfort.
What flights are included in this holiday?
What is the accommodation and meal plan?
Are the excursions guided?
What's Included+
- Booking advice from your Travel Escapes travel advisor
- Return direct flights from Dublin to Venice
- 10kg checked-in bag per person
- 7 nights 4* Hotel Histrion
- Half Board
- Guided walking tour of Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana
- Excursion to Lake Bled including a boat trip to Bled Island
- Panoramic boat trip from Portorož to Izola along the Slovenian coastline
- Full day trip to Italy including Miramare Castle and Trieste
- Guided visit to Postojna Caves and Predjama Castle
- Services of an expert tour leader throughout
Itinerary
1Arrival in Portorož+
Upon arrival at Venice airport, you will be met by your local guide and transferred across the border to your hotel in Lucija-Portorož. This coastal resort town is well-regarded for its historic salt pans and relaxing atmosphere. After checking into the 4-star Hotel Histrion, you will have time to settle in and enjoy your first evening on the Adriatic coast.
2Coastal Boat Trip to Izola+
After breakfast, enjoy a half-day panoramic boat trip departing from Portorož. You will sail past the town of Piran, known for its medieval walls, and continue along the Strunjan Natural Park peninsula. Admire the high cliffs and the backdrop of the Italian coast as you reach the ancient fishing town of Izola. After taking in the sights of the marina and vineyards, you will return to Portorož for a free afternoon.
3Slovenia Gulf of Trieste and Miramare Castle+
Today features a full-day excursion into neighbouring Italy to explore the Slovenia Gulf of Trieste. Your first stop is the 19th-century Miramare Castle, which sits on a cliff overlooking the sea. After viewing the castle and its parkland, continue to the city of Trieste. A guided walking tour will take you through the historic centre to see its grand piazzas, museums, and traditional coffeehouses, reflecting the city's rich medieval and maritime history.
4Postojna Caves and Predjama Castle+
This morning, you will visit the spectacular Postojna Caves. You will experience a unique cave railway journey through a 24km system of tunnels and karst formations. Following the cave tour, the group visits the nearby Predjama Castle. This Renaissance fortress is famously built into a dramatic stone archway on a high cliff, providing a fascinating insight into the region's defensive architecture.
5Lake Bled and Ljubljana Highlights+
Travel inland to the glacial waters of Lake Bled. You will enjoy a guided tour including a boat trip to the island at the centre of the lake to see St. Mary’s Church and its historic 99-step staircase. In the afternoon, the tour continues to Ljubljana. A guided walk along the banks of the Ljubljanica River will introduce you to the city's most famous bridges and green spaces, with free time to enjoy a coffee by the water.
6Leisure Time in Portorož+
Enjoy two full days to relax and explore the Slovenian coast at your own pace. You might choose to visit the local spas, which are famous for using mud and brine from the Secovlje Salina salt pans, or take a stroll along the promenade to the neighbouring town of Piran. Your tour leader will be available to provide recommendations for local dining and further sightseeing.
7Return to Dublin+
On your final morning, you will check out of the hotel after breakfast. A transfer will take you back to Venice airport for your direct return flight to Dublin, marking the end of your holiday through Slovenia and the Italian coast.
| Date | Acc. | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07 Sep 2026 | Twin | €1,679 | Enquire Now |
| 14 Sep 2026 | Twin | €1,799 | Enquire Now |
| 21 Sep 2026 | Twin | €1,699 | Enquire Now |
| 28 Sep 2026 | Twin | €1,599 | Enquire Now |
| 05 Oct 2026 | Twin | €1,569 | Enquire Now |
- Booking deposit: enquire at time of booking
- Prices are per person based on two sharing.
- Single Supplement applies.
- A non-refundable / non-transferable deposit is required at the time of booking.
- Balance due 16 weeks before departure.
- Optional insurance available (terms & conditions apply).
- Taxes, prices & itinerary subject to change.
- Booking terms & conditions apply.
- Travel Insurance is not included.
Ref: TD
