2013 - TM Europe River Cruising

CROATIA – the ancient walled port city of Dubrovnik Dalmatian Highlights & Classical Europe River 24 days | Seven countries – Croatia | Slovenia | Hungary | Slovakia | Austria | Germany | Netherlands YOUR HOLIDAY PRICE INCLUDES Three nights in the city of Dubrovnik Two nights in Split and Lake Bled 14 nights on the MS Johann Strauss The services of a Travelmarvel Tour Director & Cruise Director 55 fine meals – 23 breakfasts (B), 13 lunches (L) and 19 dinners (D) Soft drink, beer and local wine during every dinner on your river cruise Explore 22 different towns, villages and cities with an expert local guide Transfers, port charges & tipping included in your price INSIDER EXPERIENCES Relax aboard a premium 15-day river cruise through the heart of Europe Enjoy Budapest's cuisine and music Taste Vienna's famous Schnapps See pretzel making in Wertheim Visit a local brewery in Cologne OTHER HOLIDAY HIGHLIGHTS Discover the seaside jewel of Dubrovnik Wander the Roman ruins in Split Explore Croatia's Plitvice Lakes region Visit the romantic setting of Lake Bled Ride the funicular railway up Castle Hill and enjoy a tour Ljubljana Castle See Zagreb's medieval town centre Day 1. Dubrovnik. Arrive in Dubrovnik where you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. This evening, meet your Travelmarvel Tour Director and fellow passengers at a Welcome Reception. Stay (Three Nights): Dubrovnik, Grand Hotel Park. Day 2. Dubrovnik. This morning, begin your discovery of 'The Pearl of the Adriatic', the beautiful Croatian city of Dubrovnik. Accompanied by a local guide, step back in time as you see Dubrovnik's Old Town and visit its Dominican and Franciscan monasteries, with their prized libraries of historic books and illuminated manuscripts. Witness the sweeping archways and famous portico of the Rector's Palace (now a museum) for yourself. Dine at a relaxed local restaurant this evening. BD Day 3. Dubrovnik. Today is yours to map out as you please. Perhaps visit Pile Gate, the Gothic-influenced north gate to the city, or Dubrovnik's maritime museum detailing its compelling seafaring history. Later, enjoy time to unwind in the balmy coastal atmosphere of this historic destination. Day 4. Split. Take in the rugged Dalmatian coastline, today, as you journey to the ancient port of Split. This World Heritage-listed city is framed by the Adriatic Sea and the Mosor mountain range and it boasts a venerable history and impressive location. On arrival this afternoon check into your hotel with time to relax. Stay (Two Nights): Split, Hotel Dalmina. – www.travelmarvel.com.au – Day 5. Split. Embark on a guided tour, today, to visit Split's landmark attractions, including the imposing Roman ruins of Diocletian's Palace, the city's Old Roman Square, the Cathedral of St Dominus and more. This afternoon is at your leisure to simply sit back and relax or continue your exploration. B Day 6. Plitvice Lakes. This morning, journey to the Plitvice Lakes National Park, a protected mountainous region in central Croatia. The area is also World Heritage- listed due to the geological significance of its beautiful lakes, caves and waterfalls, which have been carved out over millennia. Surrounding pristine woodlands are an important habitat for bears, wolves and rare bird species. Explore this beautiful region, before your hotel check in. Stay (One Night): Plitvice Lakes, Hotel Jezero. BD B Day 7. Lake Bled. Today, travel north across the Croatian border to Slovenia. Arriving this afternoon, you'll discover the beauty of Lake Bled, a glacial lake situated in the romantic setting of the Julian Alps' foothills. Stay (Two Nights): Bled, Grand Hotel Toplice. BD BD Day 8. Lake Bled, Ljubljana. The resort town of Bled lies on the shores of Lake Bled. The town was once home to the Yugoslavian royal family and was also the summer residence of former Yugoslavian President Tito. This morning, visit Bled Castle for commanding views over the town. Then take an unforgettable boat ride across the lake to St Mary's Church of the Assumption, which stands sentinel on an island at the lake's centre.

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