2023 Croatia Slovenia Europe Holiday
Day 1 – Flight from Singapore to Zagreb (April 10)
We departed at 9:25pm via Qatar Airways flight QR215 to Doha, had a 2-hour stopover, and then continued on to Zagreb. The total flight time was approximately 17 hours.
Day 2 – Arrive Zagreb, the capital of Croatia at 6.55am – Lake Bled
We arrived in Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, at 6:55am. Upon arrival, we made our way to Lake Bled, Slovenia’s most famous lake.
We embarked on a sightseeing tour of Lake Bled, marvelling at its stunning crystal blue-green waters. We immersed ourselves in the idyllic surroundings and fresh, clear air, and took a moment to understand why it is often described as paradise on Earth.
We then took a traditional pletna boat ride to Bled Island, a picturesque islet crowned by the exquisite Church of the Assumption.
DAY 3 LAKE BLED – LJUBLJANA – ZAGREB
Early in the morning, we proceeded to Ljubljana, the capital and largest city of Slovenia.
Ljubljana offered a harmonious blend of old and new, with centuries-old buildings surrounding a medieval core alongside a modern and vibrant cultural scene.
Upon arrival, we explored the charming old town. We admired the baroque-style St. Nicholas Cathedral with its twin bell towers and towering dome, and strolled through the nearby Central Market, browsing shops selling local produce and souvenirs.
The market stretched along the Ljubljanica River, between Triple Bridge and Dragon Bridge. Later, we crossed Triple Bridge to Prešeren Square, named after the poet France Prešeren.
We then continued our journey back to Zagreb for our overnight stay.
DAY 4 ZAGREB – PLITVICE LAKES – ZADAR
We travelled to Plitvice Lakes National Park, one of Europe’s most impressive national parks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979.
We were in awe as we approached the 70-metre-tall Veliki Slap, the park’s largest waterfall.
The park’s beauty lay in its 16 crystal-clear lakes, interconnected by cascading waterfalls and surrounded by lush woodland inhabited by deer, bears, wolves, boars, and rare bird species.
We stayed overnight in the coastal city of Zadar.
DAY 5 ZADAR – SARAJEVO
We travelled to Sarajevo, a city that has risen repeatedly from its turbulent past.
We strolled through Baščaršija, founded by the Ottomans in the 15th century, which felt reminiscent of Turkey.
We explored the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, visited the ruins from the 1984 Winter Olympics, and toured the Tunnel of Hope to understand life during the siege.
In the afternoon, we tried Bosnian coffee and shopped for traditional handcrafted items.
DAY 6 SARAJEVO – MOSTAR
In the early morning, we continued to the historic town of Mostar.
Mostar, developed during the Ottoman era, is a remarkable example of a multicultural settlement with diverse architectural influences.
We walked across the iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), admiring its elegant stone arch reflected in the river below.
DAY 7 MOSTAR – DUBROVNIK
We travelled along the coast to Dubrovnik, known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic.”
We were captivated by its orange rooftops, ancient city walls, marble streets, and baroque architecture. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its landmarks—including Rector’s Palace, Clock Tower, Onofrio’s Fountain, Orlando’s Column, and Sponza Palace—were impressive.
We also visited the Dominican Monastery and Franciscan Monastery, which houses one of Europe’s oldest pharmacies.
We explored the old town, strolled through markets, and enjoyed a seaside meal.
DAY 8 DUBROVNIK – KOTOR – DUBROVNIK
We visited Kotor in Montenegro, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture.
We admired the breathtaking Bay of Kotor, one of the deepest fjord-like bays in the Mediterranean, surrounded by steep mountains.
We explored Kotor’s charming streets and squares before returning to Dubrovnik.
DAY 9 DUBROVNIK – SPLIT
In the early morning, we drove through the Croatian countryside to Split, the country’s second-largest city.
We toured its historic landmarks, including Diocletian’s Palace, Temple of Jupiter, and Cathedral of Saint Domnius.
With its dramatic coastline and turquoise Adriatic waters, the city offered a captivating blend of Roman, Renaissance, and Gothic heritage.
DAY 10 SPLIT – ZAGREB
We enjoyed a scenic drive back to Zagreb.
We explored the city’s baroque upper town, open-air markets, and shopping areas. Highlights included Ban Jelačić Square, Zagreb Cathedral, St. Mark’s Church, Stone Gate, and Lotrščak Tower.
Day 11 – Zagreb to Singapore (April 20)
We did some last-minute shopping before bidding farewell to Zagreb.
We departed at 10:40am on Qatar Airways flight QR216 to Doha, and then continued to Singapore.
Day 12 – Arrive in Singapore (April 21)
We arrived in Singapore at 8:55am, tired but filled with amazing memories.
