Join us for a fabulous guided overland trip from Split, through Northern Croatia, Slovenia, and Italy, stopping to explore the Plitvice & Krka National Parks (the most beautiful and visited national parks in Croatia, famous for their lakes, waterfalls, and boardwalks), as well as beautiful towns like Zadar, Trst, Venice, and Bologna before arriving in Florence in time for their big Saturday night swing dance and wine festival weekend!

Trip Perks Include:

• A fully coordinated overland journey — no independent travel days to manage

• UNESCO-listed Plitvice Lakes and the Postojna Cave experience included

• Coastal Croatia, Istrian heritage towns, and iconic Italian cities done in one flow

• Venice visit without the need to change hotels

• Dedicated tour leader accompanying the group throughout

• Comfortable, centrally located hotels to maximize time in each destination

Whether or not you choose to join us for the dance week in Tuscany, it will be an amazing add-on option to join in on and a fabulous tour of the Northern Adriatic shores!

                   LOGISTICS:                  

=> Dates:  Sept 12-18, 2026

=> Depart From::  Tragir, Croatia (a 10-minute cab ride from the Split airport)

=> Accommodation:  6 Nights at well-located boutique-style hotels en route   

=>  Included:  Accommodations; Transportation from Tragir to Florence, English-speaking tour guide throughout, group walking tours of each city (see detailed itinerary below), Plitvice Lakes National Park Entrance,  Postojna Cave Tour, Special Venice Walking Tour  

=> Not Included:  Airfare, travel insurance, outside meals, airport transfer, tips   

=> Cost:   Starts at $1,995 pp  (minimum of 8 participants needed to confirm this trip)  

=> To Register:  If you are interested in going, please sign up for this trip on the payment page.  Once we have 8 participants, we will confirm the trip is on.  

                   DAY-TO-DAY TRAVEL ITINERARY:                  

=> Day 1 (Sept 12) : Trogir to Plitvice Lakes National Park

We depart from Trogir in the morning and head inland, leaving the Dalmatian coast behind as we travel through the scenic landscapes of central Croatia. The drive takes us through rolling countryside and forested regions, offering a clear contrast to the Adriatic coast. By late morning, we arrive at Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia’s most famous national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here we spend the day exploring a network of wooden boardwalks and walking paths that wind through a series of emerald-green lakes, waterfalls, and cascades. The walking route is mostly flat and well-maintained, with several viewpoints and short boat or shuttle connections inside the park. There is time for a relaxed lunch during the visit and plenty of opportunities for photography and quiet moments in nature.

In the late afternoon, we continue a short distance to our hotel in the Plitvice area, where we check in and unwind after a full travel day. Overnight in Plitvice Lakes area.

=> Day 2 (Sept 13): Plitvice Lakes to Opatija / Lovran

After breakfast, we depart the Plitvice region and begin our journey back toward the coast. The drive offers a gradual change in scenery, moving from forested inland landscapes toward the Adriatic, with views opening up as we approach the Kvarner Gulf. We arrive in Opatija, one of Croatia’s classic seaside resorts, known for its elegant Austro-Hungarian villas, landscaped parks, and relaxed coastal atmosphere. We enjoy free time to walk along the Lungomare Promenade, a beautifully maintained seaside path that connects Opatija with nearby Lovran and offers constant views of the sea.

Later in the afternoon, we continue a short distance to Lovran, a charming coastal town with a quieter feel and a wellpreserved historic center. After checking into the hotel, the evening is free to enjoy the surroundings or take an easy stroll along the waterfront. Overnight: Lovran

=> Day 3 (Sept 14): Istria: Motovun & Pula

After breakfast, we set out to explore the heart of Istria, a region shaped by Roman, Venetian, and Austro-Hungarian influences and known for its rolling hills, stone villages, olive oil, and wine.

Our first stop is Motovun, a beautifully preserved medieval hill town rising above the Mirna River valley. A short walk leads us through its narrow streets and up to the town walls, where wide views stretch across vineyards and forests below. Motovun is also closely linked to Istria’s truffle tradition, and there is time to enjoy the atmosphere and explore at an easy pace. We then continue south to Pula, the largest city in Istria and home to some of the best-preserved Roman monuments in the Adriatic. The highlight is the impressive Roman Amphitheatre, which dominates the city skyline and stands as a reminder of Pula’s ancient past. Time is also available to walk through the old town, see the Temple of Augustus, and enjoy lunch at leisure.

In the afternoon, we return to Lovran, with time to relax after a full day of sightseeing. The evening is free to enjoy the seaside setting or dine in one of the local restaurants. Overnight: Lovran

=> Day 4 (Sept 15): Slovenia & Italy: Postojna Cave to Padua

After breakfast, we depart Lovran and cross into Slovenia, heading inland toward one of the country’s most famous natural sights. Our first stop is Postojna Cave, a vast underground world of tunnels, halls, and limestone formations. The visit includes a short train ride deep into the cave system, followed by an easy guided walk through illuminated chambers filled with stalactites and stalagmites. It is a fascinating and very accessible introduction to Slovenia’s karst landscape.

After the cave visit, we continue toward the Adriatic coast and make a short stop in Trieste, a historic port city with a unique blend of Italian, Central European, and Mediterranean influences. There is time for a walk along the main square and waterfront, and a relaxed lunch break.

In the afternoon, we drive onward into northern Italy and arrive in Padova, where we check in to our hotel and enjoy a free evening to rest or explore nearby streets and cafés. Overnight: Padova.

=> Day 5 (Sept 16): Venice Day Trip

Today is dedicated to Venice, one of Europe’s most extraordinary cities. We travel by train to the historic center and spend the day exploring on foot. Highlights include time around St. Mark’s Square, a walk through quieter neighborhoods away from the main crowds, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy Venice at your own pace. You may choose to visit churches, small museums, or simply wander canals and bridges, discovering hidden corners of the city.

The afternoon is free for personal interests, whether that means sightseeing, people-watching, or enjoying a long coffee by the water. In the late afternoon, we return to Padova by train. Overnight: Padova.

=> Day 6 (Sept 17: Padova to Bologna

After breakfast, we depart Padova and drive south toward Bologna, the capital of Emilia-Romagna and one of Italy’s great food and university cities. Upon arrival, we enjoy a walk through the historic center, known for its endless porticoes, lively squares, and medieval

towers. Bologna has a very local feel, shaped by its long academic tradition and strong culinary identity. The afternoon is free to explore further, relax in a café, or simply enjoy the rhythm of the city. This is a wonderful place to slow down before our final leg toward Tuscany. Overnight: Bologna

=> Day 7 (Sept 18): Bologna to Florence – Journey into Tuscany

After breakfast, we make our way to the train station in Bologna and board a high-speed train bound for Florence. The journey is short and comfortable, taking around 40 minutes, and offers an easy transition into the heart of Tuscany. Florence welcomes you with Renaissance art, historic streets, and the unmistakable atmosphere that has inspired travelers for centuries!

--> If you are joining us for our Tuscany Art & Dance Retreat (Sept 18-27, 2026), we will check into our hotel, enjoy the day relaxing and exploring on our own, and then get ready for the big swing dance party that evening.

--> If you are not joining us for the Tuscany Art & Dance Retreat, then this is where we say goodbye and we'll wish you a well and safe journey home :)

Pricing Includes:

• 6 nights’ accommodation in comfortable, centrally located hotels, based on double/twin occupancy, as follows:

  • 1 night – Plitvice Lakes area

  • 2 nights – Lovran / Opatija Riviera

  • 2 nights – Padova

  • 1 night – Bologna

• Private minibus transportation for the group from Trogir to Padova, as outlined in the itinerary, including all transfers and overland journeys on:

  • Day 1: Trogir – Plitvice Lakes area

  • Day 2: Plitvice Lakes area – Opatija / Lovran

  • Day 3: Istria sightseeing (Motovun & Pula)

  • Day 4: Lovran – Postojna Cave – Trieste – Padova

  • All related fuel costs, tolls, parking fees, and road taxes

  • All cross-border fees and permits (Croatia – Slovenia – Italy)

  • Driver services, including accommodation and meals, as required by regulations
    

  => Train transportation is as follows:
  

  • Round-trip train tickets between Padova and Venice

  • Train ticket between Padova and Bologna

  • Train ticket from Bologna to Florence

• Tours, Activities & Entry Fees Included

  => Entrance ticket to Plitvice Lakes National Park, including access to:

  • Designated walking trails and wooden boardwalks

  • Internal boat and shuttle connections within the park, where applicable

  => Entrance ticket to Postojna Cave in Slovenia, including:

  • Underground train ride

  • Guided walk through the cave system
    

  => Orientation walks led by the Tour leader in selected destinations, including:

  • Lovran / Opatija area

  • Motovun

  • Pula

  • Padova

  • Bologna

  => Full-day visit to Venice, including return train transportation from Padova and free time to explore the city independently

• Meals included

  • Daily breakfast at the hotels (6 breakfasts)

  • Farewell dinner on the final evening of the tour

• Full-time tour leader traveling with the group from start to finish

• Pre-tour assistance with travel information and preparation

• All taxes and VAT included

Not included: 

• International flights to Trogir and from Florence

• Airport Arrival / Departure Transfer

• Travel Insurance 

• Meals not specified in the itinerary

• Optional activities and entrance fees not listed as included

• Personal expenses (drinks, snacks, souvenirs, etc.)

• Tips and gratuities

• Any services not specifically listed as included

PRICING:

A) DOUBLE/TWIN SHARED ROOM:

==> In conjunction with either our Croatia Dance Cruise (Sept 5-12) or with our Tuscany Dance & Art Retreat (Sept 18-27): $1,995 per person (please let us know which of the other trips you will be joining us on)

==> As a stand-alone trip: $2,195

B) SOLO TRAVELER (Solo Room):

==> In conjunction with either our Croatia Dance Cruise (Sept 5-12) or with our Tuscany Dance & Art Retreat (Sept 18-27): $3,295 per person (please let us know which of the other trips you will be joining us on)

==> As a stand-alone trip: $3,495

                                                            FURTHER DISCOUNT FOR CONSECUTIVE TRIPS:

$400 off for all three trips! (Croatia Dance Cruise + This Trip + Tuscany Dance & Art Retreat). Contact Jae or Ari if you are interested in this option.

DEPOSIT:

• A $500 deposit is required to book your reservation. Please register and pay your deposit using the WeTravel registration page below.  The remainder of your payment can be made to Ari using one of the following methods:  

  • Venmo (Send to @Ari-Levitt-1) The picture is of Ari lifting his dance partner. The last 4 digits of his phone are 9172.  There is no surcharge for using Venmo. 

  • Zelle:  Send to:  arilevitt@hotmail.com There is no surcharge for using Zelle

  • PayPal (Send to: arilevitt@hotmail.com).  You will need to add a 3.5% PayPal fee to the final cost of the trip

  • Check or Money Order (in US funds).  If you are opting to pay by check, please note this on your registration form and Ari will send you more information 

REGISTRATION: 

• Click on the REGISTRATION button to register online.  

• To keep our numbers balanced, single follows are asked to sign up with a single lead. If you can't find a single lead, sign up anyway and we will put you on the waiting list. We are trying to keep the lead-follow ratio as balanced as possible.

• We will assist in matching single roommates as needed.

WHY BOOK NOW?

• Best rooms go fast — don’t miss your top pick.

• Limited space available. When it’s full, it’s full.

• Get your flights and plans dialed in early for a stress-free lead-up.
  

While this is not a formal dance excursion but one that is linking two fabulous dance weeks together (our Croatia Dance Cruise, and our Tuscany Art & Dance Adventure), we will take every opportunity to dance wherever we are. Which is to say that while we won't have any formal class time scheduled during our days, it doesn't mean there won't be plenty of opportunities for pop-up lessons and for fun spontaneous dancing -- it's just what naturally happens when you travel with dancers!  

Who these trips are tailored to:

• Social partner dancers with a sense of adventure who would like to explore some of the most beautiful and charming locations the world has to offer! 

• Easy-going affable people who would like to be part of a fun interactive group of like-minded travelers

• Folks who have the flexibility to appreciate that other countries do not operate the same as the U.S. and can easily pivot and adjust to changes in the plans and schedules. 

• A desire to get to know new people and a sense of humor will ensure you have a fun relaxing dance adventure with us as we explore and dance the world together!

Why You Should Join Us!

• It's the perfect blend of travel-adventure, beautiful locations, wonderful people, and fabulous itineraries!  

• Our focus is on fun & engaging non-competitive social partner dancing with the flavor of each region we're visiting.  

• A wide variety of dance styles (or ones specific to the region we are going -- ie, swing, blues, Latin, ballroom, etc) will be celebrated and taught by world-class instructors in beautiful locations across the globe. 

• You're going to have a fabulous times, meet incredible people, and make life-long memories!

Plan to fly into Split, Croatia (airport code: SPU), and to depart from Florence, Italy (airport code: FLR)

For people joining us on our Croatia Dance Cruise from Trogir, your transportation is included as we will be departing together from the ship.

For those arriving in Split for this trip specifically, please be ready to travel by 9am on Sept 12.

**Due to the early departure time, I would highly recommend you come the night before (Sept 11 at the latest), stay overnight in either Split or Trogir, and be ready to meet us at 9am on Sept 12. These days with airlines delays and cancellations, you will want to make sure you have plenty of buffer time built into to your flight so you don't miss the departure

All travelers must have a valid passport for international travel and many countries require at least 6 months validity from the date of return. Some countries also require a machine-readable passport and/or unstamped available pages.

When assisting with an international travel booking, we will assume that all travelers on the booking have a valid passport. If this is not the case, you must let us know. It is important to ensure you have valid passports, visas and re-entry permits which meet the requirements of immigration and other government authorities. Any fines, penalties, payments, delay or expenditures incurred as a result of such documents not meeting the requirements of those authorities will be your sole responsibility.

Information about Passport/VISA requirements for Croatia can be found HERE

======== NEW EUROPEAN VISA TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS FOR FALL, 2026 =======

TRAVEL TO THE EUROPEAN UNION (EU):

While the EU does NOT currently have a Visa requirement for USA & Canadian citizens, they will be implementing one in the Fall of 2026. It will be called ETIAS (short for "European Information and Authorization System"). We will update this site as soon as we have more information to share. For other nationalities, be sure to check your country requirements for travel to the EU.

CLICK HERE to view the official ETIAS website:

TRAVEL TO THE UNITED KINGDOM (UK):

For anyone visiting the UK during your travels, it's important to know that starting Jan 8th, 2026, they do require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) if you are doing anything more than directly connecting to flights through the airport.

The Electronic Travel Authorization functions as a digital pre-clearance system, similar to the U.S. ESTA program used for visa-waiver travelers entering the United States.

U.S. passport holders must obtain an ETA before traveling to any part of the U.K., including England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and the U.K.’s British Overseas Territories.

The ETA, once approved, is valid for two years (or until the traveler’s passport expires, whichever comes first) and for multiple trips. It costs £16 (about $22) for each passenger, adults and children alike.

WHO NEEDS A UNITED KINGDOM ETA:

U.S. citizens must apply for an ETA if they are traveling to or transiting through the U.K. and do not already hold a U.K. visa, a British or Irish passport or legal residency in the U.K. or the Republic of Ireland. Travelers who already require a visa to enter the U.K. under existing rules will continue to need a visa and should not apply for an ETA.

The rules clearly state that travelers do not need an ETA if they are transiting through a U.K. airport and will not pass through border control. However, if they pass through border control, they need the ETA.

HOW TO APPLY:

Applications must be submitted online through the U.K. government’s official website or via the U.K. ETA app, available on Google Play and the App Store. The U.K. government notes that most people currently receive a decision automatically within minutes. However, they still recommended allowing three working days to be on the safe side.

Proof of COVID Vaccination is NOT currently required for this trip.

Please check the most recent CDC update to view any change in regulations.  Requirements for travel to Europe can be found at HERE.   Information about return travel to the US can be found at HERE.  

Travel insurance is required for all of our trips and will help protect both your investment and our vendors should you need to cancel. There are many companies that offer travel insurance options. You can sign up with one such policy during the payment checkout portion of this registration. 

Private 3rd-Party Insurance Companies:

•  If you are a AAA member, you may want to check with them.  

• I have also found that Faye insurance is very easy to purchase online. (www.withFaye.com).  

• Allianz Travel Insurance  seems to be a very popular choice among our travelers as well (www.allianztravelinsurance.com) If you travel several times a year, Allianz also provides an annual travel insurance policy which can save you money overall. It's very easy to sign up online, or you can contact the Allianz reservations team at  866 884-3556.

• This WeTravel website has a travel insurance policy that you may purchase at checkout. The policy allows you to cancel for any reason, which is a nice option to have. Other travel insurance companies may place restrictions on why you may cancel (for medical emergency only, etc). Be sure to check your policy limitations

• Here is an online list of the 10 Best Travel Insurance Companies for 2025  

Airlines:

• Airlines also frequently provide travel insurance for your trip that you can purchase at the check out page when you are buying your tickets, and you may want to look at that option as well.  Be sure you know if this covers just the flight, or the flight and travel in-between.

Credit Card Inclusions:

• Certain credit cards also provide cancellation and interruption benefits for any vacation package that you may buy using your card. This means that if you charge the full pre-paid cost of a packaged trip through a travel agency to your credit card, that expense typically qualifies for purposes of travel insurance protections. Please note: if the travel agency's merchant category or descriptions on your statement don't clearly show prepaid travel or a traveler itinerary, the card issuer may require supporting documents. One of our participants found this to be true in our case when she discovered her purchase was registered on her credit card statement as "entertainment" and not "travel". Be sure to check with your credit card company first to make sure that 1) they provide travel insurance, and that 2) you know exactly what they are covering and what you would need to submit to them for a refund

• I personally use the Chase Bank Sapphire Credit Card which is excellent for travel.

  • Benefits include:

    • Ultimate Rewards points do not expire

    • 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs

    • $0 foreign transaction fees

    • No blackout dates or travel restrictions

  • Protections include:

    • Auto Rental Coverage
      Decline the rental company's collision insurance and charge the entire rental cost to your card. Coverage is primary and provides reimbursement up to $60,000 for theft and collision damage for most rental vehicles with an MSRP of $125,000 or less

    • Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance
      If your trip is canceled or cut short by sickness, severe weather or other covered situations, you can be reimbursed up to $10,000 per covered traveler and $20,000 per trip for your pre-paid, non-refundable travel expenses, including passenger fares, tours, and hotels.

    • Trip Delay Reimbursement
      If your common carrier travel is delayed more than 12 hours or requires an overnight stay, you are covered for unreimbursed expenses, such as meals and lodging, up to $500 per covered traveler.

    • Travel Accident Insurance
      When you pay for your air, bus, train or cruise transportation with your card, you are eligible to receive up to $500,000 in accidental death or dismemberment coverage.

    • Lost Luggage Reimbursement
      Provides reimbursement up to $3,000 per covered traveler for the cost to repair or replace checked or carry-on baggage that is lost, damaged or stolen during a covered trip.

    • Baggage Delay Insurance
      Reimburses you up to $100 a day for up to 5 days for essential purchases like toiletries and clothing when baggage is delayed over 6 hours.

    • Travel and Emergency Assistance
      If you run into a problem while traveling away from home, this benefit provides legal and medical referrals and access to other travel and emergency assistance services. (You will be responsible for the cost of any goods or services obtained.)

    • Roadside Assistance
      If you have a roadside emergency, call the service provider to dispatch the help you need. Roadside service fees will be billed to your card at time of dispatch.

    • Fraud Protection
      Get fraud protection all day, every day.

    • Zero Liability Protection
      You won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.

    • Fraud Alerts
      Round-the-clock, real-time monitoring for unusual account activity.

    • Purchase Protection
      Covers your eligible new purchases for 120 days from the date of purchase against damage or theft up to $500 per item.

    • Extended Warranty Protection
      Extends the time period of the manufacturer's U.S. warranty by an additional year, on eligible warranties of three years or less, up to four years from the date of purchase.

    • Chip-Enabled Protection
      Enjoy enhanced security and wider acceptance when you make purchases at chip-enabled card readers in the U.S. and abroad.

  • CLICK HERE to register for your Sapphire Card today and earn 125,000 bonus points with Sapphire Reserve® or 75,000 bonus points with Sapphire Preferred®.

Once you have purchased your travel insurance, please let us know the company name and policy number you have with them.

Restaurants, stores, and ATMs in most tourist destinations in Europe accept VISA, MC, and other bank, debit, and credit cards for access to Euros.  Just to be sure, however, you may want to exchange some currency before you come, or you can easily do it at the airport or at any tourist money exchange kiosk in town once you arrive.  

CLICK HERE For Our Best Tips On Travel Preparation And Packing.

Please refer to our TRAVEL TIPS page for valuable suggestions on such things as how & what to pack, how & when to book flights, power cord adapters, international phone coverage, what to include in your traveler's first aid kit, etc.

• Should you cancel less than 14 days of booking and greater than 180 days before the trip, you get a 100% refund of total cost minus a $150 admin fee.
• Should you cancel after 14 days of booking and up to 180 days before the trip you will get a 50% refund of total cost minus the $150 admin fee.
• Once we are within 180 days of the trip starting there are no refunds.
• Note:  should you find someone to fill your spot, we can transfer your balance to them minus the $150 fee. Should you become sick or have other health or family-related issues, it’s highly likely the required travel insurance would kick in and reimburse you so be sure and check with your provider. 
• It is the responsibility of the trip attendee to reach out in the event of a cancellation and make their payments on time. We reserve the right to hold payments according to the cancellation policy above to pay our vendors to make this trip happen. 
• By making a deposit you agree to above terms of service and cancellation policy.

Liability:

We exercise care in the selection of reputable travel service providers but we are not ourselves a provider of travel services and have no control over, or liability for, the services provided by third parties.  

In no event do we accept any liability in contract, tort or otherwise, for any injury, damage, loss, delay, additional expense or inconvenience caused directly or indirectly by the acts, omissions or default, whether negligent or otherwise, of third party providers over whom we have no direct control, force majeure or any other event which is beyond our control or which is not preventable by reasonable diligence on our part (This includes such things as war, acts of terrorism, government shutdowns, airspace closures, natural disasters, pandemics, political unrest, etc).

We also do not accept any liability in contract, tort or otherwise, for consequential loss (meaning indirect loss, loss of revenue, loss of reputation, loss of profits, loss of actual or anticipated savings, lost opportunities, including opportunities to enter into arrangements with third parties or loss or damage in connection with claims against you by third parties) howsoever caused in connection with your booking.

Risks of Travel and Release: 

We assume no responsibility for and shall not be liable for the acts or omissions on the part of any other party not under our control or any acts of God, unsafe conditions, terrorism, health hazards including pandemics, illness, weather hazards, or the suitability for a disabled person of any portion of any trip. We have no special knowledge of dangers during travel or at destinations. For information related to such dangers, we recommend going to the State Department travel website at travel.state.gov, click on "Find International travel Information" then click on "Country Information", and fill in the name of the destination country. 

For medical and health information, we recommend going to the Centers for Disease Control website at cdc.gov/travel, then click on "Destinations" and scroll to the name of the destination country. It is your personal decision to travel, and you are doing so with full knowledge of current travel recommendations and travel restrictions with regards to the risks of COVID-19. YOU HEREBY EXPRESSLY ASSUME ALL OF THESE RISKS AND DANGERS, AND YOU HEREBY EXPRESSLY AGREE TO FOREVER RELEASE, DISCHARGE AND HOLD US, AND OUR AGENTS, EMPLOYEES, OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, ASSOCIATES, AFFILIATED COMPANIES, GUIDES, GROUP LEADERS, AND SUBCONTRACTORS HARMLESS AGAINST ANY AND ALL LIABILITY, ACTIONS, CAUSES OF ACTIONS, SUITS, CLAIMS, AND DEMANDS OF ANY AND EVERY KIND AND NATURE WHATSOEVER WHICH YOU NOW HAVE OR WHICH MAY HEREAFTER ARISE OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH THESE RISKS AND Dangers.

If you have any questions, please contact us at danceadventures@comcast.net