Porec & the Istrian Riviera

Porec & the Istrian Riviera

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Porec & the Istrian Riviera

12 Days Starting and ending in Belgium

Visiting: Belgium, Tyrol, Poreč, Ljubljana, Piran

Tour operator:

Leger Holidays

Tour code:

rpc

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

0-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

Join us on a holiday to Croatia’s golden peninsula. From your base at the 4-star Valamar Crystal, we take you on a tour of some of the country’s most celebrated sights, from amazing architecture to stunning coastlines. We begin in the town of Porec, where its richness is measured by its historical heritage, with stunning Roman architecture and famous sites such as the 6th century Basilica to witness, all adding to the beauty of this coastal town. On to Ljubljana, the historic capital of Slovenia, where you can take a tour of the Old Town and visit Triple Bridge. From our base in Porec, we also offer a range of optional excursions, from the beautiful coastal towns of Rovinj and Vrsar, to Pula with its Roman architecture. On the 12-day tour we also visit the Slovenian resort of Piran, with its Venetian influenced architecture and labyrinth of alleyways.

Highlights

  • Begin in the town of Porec, where its richness is measured by its historical heritage, with stunning Roman architecture and famous sites

  • Visit Ljubljana, the historic capital of Slovenia, where you can take a tour of the Old Town and visit Triple Bridge

  • Visit the Slovenian resort of Piran, with its Venetian influenced architecture and labyrinth of alleyways

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Travel To Belgium

Location: Belgium

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: City-style hotels

Local departure by coach or Door-to-Door service, then to Belgium for an overnight stay.

Day 2 : Continue To Bavaria Or The Austrian Tyrol

Location: Tyrol

Accommodation: Hotel, Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Sonnschein or the Hotel Johannisbad

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Dinner

We continue our journey to Bavaria or the Austrian Tyrol for an overnight stay.

Day 3 : Head To Porec

Location: Poreč

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: 4-star Valamar Crystal or the 4-star Valamar Tamaris

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Head to our hotel in Porec for a seven night stay.

Day 4 : Porec

Location: Poreč

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: 4-star Valamar Crystal or the 4-star Valamar Tamaris

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Porec’s richness is measured by its historical heritage, which has been deeply rooted in this area for thousands of years. It is a city of culture with 37kms of coastline, extending into the Mirna Valley in the north and the deep Lim Fjord in the south. The old city of Porec is a monument of culture and has preserved the structure of the old Roman castrum. The main streets, Decumanus and Cardo Maximus, are still preserved in their original forms. Decumanus connected the square Marafor, in the western part of the old city, with city gates at its eastern end. The Roman Forum with temples to Roman gods was located on Marafor square. Today, there is still a Romanic house and a few beautiful Venetian gothic palaces. Why not join our optional walking tour where our expert guide will provide an informative overview of the city. The walking tour will last for approximately 2 hours and will take in the main sights of the town including the 6th century Basilica and the old Roman ruins. (Entrances to places of interest are not included). Spend the rest of the day exploring the quaint old cobbled town at your leisure.

Day 5 : Ljubljana

Location: Ljubljana

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: 4-star Valamar Crystal or the 4-star Valamar Tamaris

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast why not join our included excursion to Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana. It may be one of Europe’s smaller capital cities but it is filled with history and ancient sights. The capital lies in a basin between the mysterious Karst and the sunny Alps. There were mysterious people living here on pile-houses thousands of years before the Romans built the town of Emona, whose remains can still be found.

This historic capital, developed by the Romans, is now a blend of Baroque Churches and mansions overlooked by a medieval castle. Spend the day at leisure exploring this fascinating city or take a stroll along the willow-lined walkways along the Ljubljana River. To make the most of your visit why not join our optional guided walking tour? We take a walk through the elegant Baroque streets and over the picturesque bridges to see the beautiful churches and palaces, and enjoy the atmosphere of the squares and riverbanks. The present appearance of Ljubljana is a harmonious blend of Baroque, Secessionist and modern styles, with the added spice of masterpieces by the architect Plecnik. The green oasis of Congress Square bears witness to the momentous past, connecting the new and the old parts of Ljubljana. The lively Prešeren Square, everyone’s favourite meeting place, is adorned with a garland of graceful Secessionist buildings, the monumental Franciscan church, and the monument to the greatest Slovenian poet. The unique Three Bridges spans the River Ljubljanica, which winds its way through the city. The magnificent Town Hall, and the nearby Robba’s Fountain, dominates the elegant Town Square, which lies below a green hill, crowned by the unconquerable Castle. We visit the splendid Cathedral and stroll through the colourful open-air market, towards the Dragon Bridge. You will also have some time to wander the streets on your own, discovering its pleasant surprises and immersing yourself in the city’s alluring atmosphere.

Day 6 : Free Time Or Rovinj & Vrsar

Location: Poreč

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: 4-star Valamar Crystal or the 4-star Valamar Tamaris

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Our optional excursion today takes us to the beautiful harbour town of Rovinj, located on the western coast of Istria. It has a rich history as well as many interesting architectural buildings. Enjoy free time ambling around the narrow streets of the lovely Old Town, regarded as one of the most photographed on the Croatian coast. We return to Porec pausing en-route at the beautiful hilltop village of Vrsar. With a commanding view of the coast, Vrsar naturally became a defended fortress, however, only parts of the fortification system have been preserved. Casanova, Italy's most famous lover, visited Vrsar twice and even noted it in his memoirs. Spend time exploring the narrow streets in the hilltop town or stroll along the picturesque harbour front.

Day 7 : Free Time Or Opatija

Location: Poreč

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: 4-star Valamar Crystal or the 4-star Valamar Tamaris

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Our full day optional excursion takes us to the beautiful town of Opatija, guarded by a backdrop of densely-wooded hills and sitting where the Istrian peninsula joins the Kvarner Riviera. The name Opatija means 'abbey' in Croatian and the name was derived from a 14th-century Benedictine abbey 'Opatija Sv. Jakova' (Abbey of Saint James) that stood here. Today, very little of the original abbey has been preserved and now, in its spot, stands St. Jakov's Church. You will find the church in the central Opatija park which covers an area of 3.64 hectares. The park itself is divided into two separate units, one known as Saint James' Park (Park Svetog Jakova), which is where the church stands, and the other near Villa Angiolina known as Park Angiolina. Another of Opatija’s famous sights is the Maiden with the seagull, a statue by Zvonko Car (1956), which is positioned on a promontory by the Juraj Šporer art pavilion. It has turned into one of the symbols of Opatija. Spend time exploring the town at your leisure. Perhaps work up an appetite strolling along Opatija's promenade the Lungomare, and enjoy a leisurely al fresco lunch. Much of the promenades length is shaded by chestnut and laurel trees and there are handily placed benches which invite you to sit and admire the view of the islands of Cres and Krk looming in the shimmering blue of Kvarner bay.

Day 8 : Free Time Or Pula

Location: Poreč

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: 4-star Valamar Crystal or the 4-star Valamar Tamaris

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Why not join our optional excursion to Pula, with its 3,000 years of history and heritage. Take a stroll through the town and you will come across numerous monuments of Roman architecture including the Triumphal Arch of the Sergi which dates from the first century B.C. You can also see Hercules' Gate and Twin Gates, the Temple of Augustus and of course, the magnificent Amphitheatre. This arena was built in the 1st century AD, during the rule of Emperor Vespasian. It is elliptical in shape and is 32 meters high. This ranks it as the sixth largest Roman amphitheater existing today. The arena could once hold up to 23,000 spectators, whereas today it can seat some 5,000 people. Spend time relaxing in one of the many cafes and exploring the town before we head back to the hotel.

Day 9 : Piran

Location: Piran

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: 4-star Valamar Crystal or the 4-star Valamar Tamaris

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today our included excursion takes us to the neighbouring Slovenian resort of Piran. Piran is a real jewel on the Adriatic Coast, with close links to Venice. Explore the Old Town with its labyrinth of alleyways, covered arches, churches and Venetian influenced architecture. Relax in Tartini Square and watch the world go by, as you look across the charming harbour.

Day 10 : Travel To The Austrian Tyrol

Location: Tyrol

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Sonnschein or the Hotel Johannisbad

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Time to say farewell to Croatia and begin our journey home. We travel to the Austrian Tyrol for an overnight stay.

Day 11 : Travel Back To Belgium

Location: Belgium

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: City-style hotels

Meals Included: Breakfast

Through Germany to Belgium for an overnight stay.

Day 12 : Return Home

Location: Belgium

Meals Included: Breakfast

Return home.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    As detailed in the itinerary

  • Additional Services

    Travel from a wide range of convenient joining points across the UK is included within your coach holiday price; some carry a supplement. Please contact us for our full list of joining points.

  • Airport Transfers at Destination

    This trip includes coach travel from/to a local UK joining point

  • Fully Guided

  • International Travel

  • Meals

    As detailed in the itinerary

  • Transport

    Comfortable, air-conditioned motorcoach

What's Not Included

Accommodation

You will stay for six or seven nights at the 4-star Valamar Crystal or the 4-star Valamar Tamaris.

On the 12-day itinerary, overnight stays in Bavaria/Austrian Tyrol will be in minimum 3-star hotels, such as the the Hotel Sonnschein in Neiderau or the Hotel Johannisbad in Bad Aibling.

Overnight stays in Belgium will be in city-style hotels.

Check out our Q&As

  • Is the tour coach air conditioned?

    Yes

  • Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

    As detailed in the itinerary

  • What is the fitness level required to do this tour?

    Low

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    Some tours carry a supplement for solo travellers, please ask for details if the Single price is not shown

  • Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?

    On Leger Coach Holidays, your allowance is one medium sized suitcase per person, which should weigh no more than 20kg when full.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes

  • Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?

    No

  • What type of coach will be used?

    You will travel on either our Luxuria Coach or our Silver Service Coach

  • Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?

    Fully escorted by our experienced drivers/crews. And in most towns and cities we either include or offer optional sightseeing tours with expert local guides to help you get the most from your visits.

  • Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?

    Yes

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    40 years

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Sole use of your own room on all Single Traveller holidays: means you still get your privacy and time out from the group.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • Battlefield Tours - Will it be possible to visit a particular cemetery whilst on the tour?

    Please contact us and we will check to see whether you can visit a particular cemetery on any of our Battlefield Tours, if we are not able to fit it into our itinerary then you could take some time out of the tour and do this independently by taxi or public transport.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies

Reviews of this operator

Gary White (Google Reviewer)  

Just got back from a...

27-May-2024

Just got back from a holiday with leger holidays to callea spain which my wife done as a surprise for my 60th and wedding anniversary together my wife and i had a great time the coach journey there was excellent regular stops for toilet breaks and a stretch. Our two drivers Geoff and katrina were brilliant serving regular drinks and making the trip pleasant all the people on the coach were pleasant the hotel in spain was so nice the best we've stayed in lovely staff lovely bar the guy at the bar was great really friendly nice room. Overall our journey there and our return journey was brill the only thing that was not good at all was the ibis hotel on the return journey the room was horrible not a nice breakfast not polite French staff. Not really interested in trying to speak some english if i was leger should try and use a different hotel. Once again a big thank you to Geoff and katrina well done guys for making our holiday lovely. Hope to see you on another holiday soon

Will (Google Reviewer)  

I went on the 4...

05-Jan-2024

I went on the 4 countries trip and swiss glacier express and overall it was a great trip. The coach I was on was silver service, it was tidy had nice seats and other accessories such as charging points and headsets which was very handy. The drivers Alex and Dave were fantastic, very kind, funny and respectful throughout the whole trip and a pleasure to talk to. The excursions were very pleasant and all ran very smoothly. The hotels were decent and offered a good service. I overall very much recommend leger holidays.

Sally Matson  

Excellent customer service

10-Jan-2023

Booked our ‘Christmas in Austria & Scenic Trains of the Tyrol’ through George on the customer Helpline. Nothing was too much trouble, everything clearly & patiently explained. He even had permission to log in on his day off to finalise the sale! A charming and helpful young person and a credit to the company.

Euan Donald (Google Reviewer)  

Been on two tours now...

10-Oct-2023

Been on two tours now the “D Day beaches” and “ All Quiet on the Western Front” tour of the Somme and Ypres. Both four days in total, two travelling and two on the site of the various battles. This is outstanding value for money, picked up from Carlisle , Cumbria and literally looked after all the way through the tours. The coaches are great and the accommodation spot on . The guides are very knowledgeable ( Mark Hope brilliant guy)and the bus drivers professional . Absolutely fantastic .

Remon Wanis (Google Reviewer)  

We have been working with...

05-Aug-2024

We have been working with them for nearly a year now as Sussex Airports Taxis, and they offer the best customer service ever. All their customers are always happy when they return from their holidays. We look forward to continuing our partnership for many more years to come.

William Olley (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on a...

21-Aug-2024

I recently went on a coach holiday with this company. Everything was on time but there can be traffic hold ups with jams and roadworks! The coach was comfortable and the driver stopped for rest periods. The hotel was a 3 star close to a spectacular beach and was adequate. The catering was excellent! I went on the excursions included in the package and visited some lovely places.

Gordon Price (Google Reviewer)  

just returned from Italian holiday....

21-Jul-2024

just returned from Italian holiday. It was great spoilt a little by the high temperature even Ledger can't control that. The only real thing to spoil the trip was one of the hotels. The Krystall hotel in Diano Marina was terrible the room was dire with cracks in shower bogged up shower fittings noe control for AC end so on. The food was very poor, limited choice luke warm food on cold plates. After 4 evening meals (3 or four courses) we were only able to remember 2 we enjoyed. Breakfast was poor no bread except for hard rolls. No fresh fruit if you liked cake for breakfast you were good. If this is a 3 star hotel Italian standards have fallen which I don't think they have. Ledger brochure states "some of Europes most fascinating unique hotels" for Luxuria trips. This hotel should be removed from your list at once. The holiday was other wise good I cannot praise your coach crew too to much they were excellent. A highlight of the trip was the return trip through the swiss alps. It was superb and deserves mention in your holiday iteniary description.

Hilary Jackson (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on a...

12-Jun-2024

I recently went on a 4 night tour to Scarborough. Driver was great hotel superb. My criticism is too many destinations crammed into day excursion. Example visit to Flamborough head stop for 1 hour it was teeming nobody got off coach but even if fine pointless. Then on to Bridlington coach Park 1.5 ml from centre. Most people are hard pressed to get to center & back in 1.5 hours pointless. Incidentally if Leger paid a permit they could alight us in the resort. Very bad logistics. On to Whitby with a decent stop should have taken us there & bypassed the other stops. I will not go with them again. I will source a better holiday with excursions to one place only.

Suzanne Maylin (Google Reviewer)  

Having returned from a fabulous...

24-Sep-2024

Having returned from a fabulous tour of Austria with excellent tour guides/ drivers, it's disappointing to say the least that I'm left chasing a return for an excursion that was cancelled. I called Leger 5 days ago and am still waiting in a call back. Leger if you want to retain customers you need step up on service. Good training , good service costs very little, and once embedded in a company produces more income. I don't suppose anyone from Leger will respond to this, but who knows

aled blackshaw (Google Reviewer)  

just returned from a solos...

25-Mar-2024

just returned from a solos break to valkenburg and rhine valley i enjoyed the break overall although both journeys were considerably longer than expected due to several picks ups. I could have done without the 3 countries meeting point excursion to be honest and the lunch on rhine cruise was very basic. The drivers/couriers were efficient and good humoured and provided free lunch vouchers on the ferry which were much appreciated. I probably would book another break with leger but to somewhere a lot closer to home.

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.

    Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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