aaa croatia tours

May 1-14, 2025

Discover Croatia, Slovenia and the Adriatic Coast

Book an air inclusive package by November 2, 2024 and receive $150 off per person!

Booking Deadline: February 14, 2025

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Included Features

• General Info

Single and triple occupancy accommodations are extremely limited and are not guaranteed until space is confirmed

All non-members must add $60 to the above rates..

Rates are subject to availability at the time of booking and include taxes, fees and fuel surcharges which are subject to change. All pricing and included features are based on a minimum of 15 passengers .

Desired pick-up location is not guaranteed until passenger minimums are met. 

• Free parking with roundtrip transfers to Newark International Airport
• Roundtrip airfare from Newark International Airport to Zagreb, Croatia
• 13-night hotel accommodations
• Roundtrip transfers airport/hotel
• Meals: 12 breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 5 Dinners
• Gratuities for included meals
• Services of a AAA Member Choice Vacations Tour Director and Driver
• Gratuities for the AAA Members Choice Vacations Tour Director and Driver
• Sightseeing and admissions as stated in itinerary 
• All local taxes, hotel services charges & porterage for one suitcase per person
• Services of a Discoveries Journey Manager
• Castle Dinner
• Istrian Peninsula
• Farm-to-Table Dinner
• Plitvice Lakes National Park
• Countryside Lunch with Folklore Entertainment
• Diocletian's Palace.

Thursday, May 1: Overnight Flight

Depart Central, PA and transfer to the Newark International Airport for a flight and transportation to Zagreb, Croatia.

Friday, May 2: Zagreb, Croatia-Ljubljana, Slovenia-Tour Begins.

After arriving in Zagreb travel to Ljubljana, the romantic capital city of Slovenia; enjoy a welcome dinner with your fellow travelers in this fairy tale town.  Hotel  Grand Plaza Hotel Ljubljana, Ljubljana (Dinner)

Saturday, May 3: Ljubljana 

This morning you will tour the beautiful Ljubljana with a local expert. The city is nestled along the banks of the Ljubljana River with green parks, picturesque bridges, sidewalk cafes and a lively central market.  Visit the Prešeren Square at the impressive City Hall and the Ljubljana University. The city is known for many bridges like the Dragon Bridge, representing courage and power. Today you will have free time for lunch to explore this vibrant town before traveling towards Lake Bled. Nestled between the Julian Alps, travel by wooded boat to the centerpiece of Lake Bled, Bled Island.  Enjoy the afternoon viewing one of the most picturesque places in Slovenia.  (Breakfast)

Sunday, May 4: Ljubljana - Novo Mesto- Opatija, Croatia

We will depart Ljubljana and travel to the small-town of Novo Mesto. You'll have a unique view of the town as you drift along the famous Krka River bend. Later we will meet with a local guide for a walking tour.  You'll have free time for lunch before continuing to Croatia. The resort of Opatija, also known as"Croatia's Riviera" was once the retreat for Roman Caesars and Habsburg Monarchs during the summer. Enjoy a brief walking tour to get acquainted with the coastal town. This evening is at leisure. Hotel:  Liburnia Riviera Hotels, Opatija (Breakfast)

Monday, May 5: Opatija - Istrian Peninsula 

Discover the Istrian Peninsula along with Italian and Croatian culinary influences. We will visit a local distillery where the owners  will show us how  they use regional plants. Later in the afternoon enjoy a delightful farm-to- table dinner held at a local restaurant where you can sample the wines and culinary delights. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Tuesday, May 6: Opatija - Plitvice Lakes

This morning we depart for one of the oldest, largest, and most beautiful national parks in Croatia, the Plitvice Lakes. Travel among dense forest and terraced lakes, where waterfalls and free-flowing cascades connect one lake to the other. This awe-inspiring scenery is one of the wonders you'll experience at the designated UNESCO World Heritage site. Experience the natural wonder that extends over 73,000 acres with a short cruise. Tonight we will stay at a hotel in the village near the National Park.  Hotel:  The Lyra Hotel Plitvice, Plitvice Lakes (Breakfast, Dinner)

Wednesday, May 7: Plitvice Lakes - Split

Today we travel through the Croatian countryside making a stop in a traditional small village. We will learn about the long Croatian history creating high quality artisanal prosciuttos. The Perajica family makes one of the best.  A short tour will show us how meat is produced following a  light lunch of homemade specialties. Next arrive in Split, a seaside city full of Roman ruins.  This afternoon we join a walking tour of the Diocletian's Palace (UNESCO), one of the most significant late Roman historical monuments built  at the turn of the 4th century. Explore the Cathedral of St. Dominus. This evening you will have a Dalmatian cuisine dinner at a local restaurant. Hotel: Atrium Hotel- Safir Hoteli, Split (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) 

Thursday, May 8: Split

The day is yours to relax and explore Split's coastal charms independently or you might consider an optional trip (not included in the price of the trip) to Trogir (UNESCO). This coastal gem is known for its picturesque Venetian architecture, medieval walls, towering cathedrals, prominent stone houses and scenic charm. (Breakfast)

Friday, May 9: Split-Dubrovnik

Savor stunning sea views as we travel the winding coastal road, hugging the sheer cliffs that drop dramatically into the aquamarine of the Adriatic Sea. Stop in a quaint village in the Dalmatian countryside as a local family hosts a delicious lunch made from ingredients produced from the valley near their home.  Learn about village life and listen to Croatian folk music played on the "lijerica," a traditional instrument.  Continue on to Dubrovnik, a city of twisting cobblestone streets and burnt-orange rooftops, rich in history and charm.  Hotel: Royal Hotels & Resort Ariston, Dubrovnik (Breakfast, Lunch)

Saturday, May 10: Dubrovnik

Join a local guide on a tour of the "Old Dubrovnik," a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Franciscan Monastery, where Europe's oldest pharmacy resides, and see Dubrovnik's many historical sites like the Rector's Palace, Sponza Palace, Dubrovnik Cathedral, and Old Town's famous main street, Stradun. This afternoon, It's your choice! Ascend Mount Srd by cable car for breathtaking views of the Old City of Dubrovnik, the crystal clear Adriatic Sea and islands -OR- receive a ticket to access the walls that contain the old city of Dubrovnik and gain a different perspective on this remarkable place.  (Breakfast)

Sunday, May 11: Dubrovnik

Today is at leisure relaxing or independently exploring the marble streets and baroque buildings of Dubrovnik's breathtaking Old Town. Perhaps you'll embark on an optional tour (not included in the price of the tour) to the culturally rich Konavle region, where  you will be welcomed by a family-owned vineyard for a discussion about their cultivation and production methods before indulging in a tasting of their wines. Lunch will be held at a locally-owned restaurant that prepares culturally rich recipes passed down for generations.  (Breakfast)

Monday, May 12: Dubrovnik- Zagreb, Croatia

This morning we depart Dubrovnik and travel to lovely Cavtat, a coastal resort town. After a short tour reveals its highlights, enjoy free time to grab a coffee or lunch at one of the seaside cafes. Continue to the airport for a short flight to Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. A late afternoon tour highlights the best of this fascinating city that has marked the intersection of Eastern and Central Europe for more than 1000 years. Ride one of the most beautiful funiculars in Europe to the charming upper town. Hotel: Sheraton Zagreb Hotel, Zagreb (Breakfast)

Tuesday, May 13: Zagreb

The day is yours to explore Zagreb however you wish! Explore old towns' two medieval settlements, stroll the many open squares and parks, or enjoy the Dolac Market. Perhaps you will choose to take an optional tour to Croatia's Zagorje region with visits to historic Kumrovec and the foodie favorite of Samobor. This evening we will celebrate an unforgettable trip with a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.  Hotel: Sheraton Zagreb Hotel, Zagreb (Breakfast, Dinner)

Wednesday, May 14, 2025: Tour Ends - Depart for Central, PA

Your tour comes to an end this morning. After breakfast transfer to the airport for your flight and transportation back to Central, PA.  (Breakfast)

*Hotels and itinerary are subject to change at any time without notification and/or compensation

Activity Level: 3 This tour includes moderate physical activity. The itinerary blends some longer days with shorter days and more leisure time. Walking tours, as well as walking slightly longer distances, up stairs, or on uneven walking surfaces, should be expected. 

General Information

Travel documents.

Original signed Passport valid for 6 months beyond stay, and with at least one black Visa page for Visa Stamp(s) is required for this trip. As of printing of this brochure all guests are required to obtain an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) travel authorization for travel to Europe's Schengen zone (not included in the price of the trip). Please see your Travel Advisor for additional information.

As travel policies are rapidly changing as a result of COVID-19, the final requirements will be communicated  prior to travel.

A deposit of $698 per person will confirm your reservation. Final payment is due to AAA by: February 14, 2025

Cancellation Penalties 

Deposit date to day of departure-$25 per person, plus....

From November 3, 2024 to March 1, 2025- $698 per person, plus any additional suppliers' fees From March 2 to April 15, 2025 - 40% per person, plus any additional suppliers' fees April 16, 2025- April 30, 2025- 75% per person, plus any additional suppliers' fees  After April 30, 2025- NON-REFUNDABLE

*  Airfare is non-refundable after final payment.

Air arrangements are handled by the tour operator. Seat assignments cannot be confirmed until the tour operator releases names to the airline(s) 30 days prior to departure. Specific seat request cannot be guaranteed. Some flights may contain code share agreements.

For your protection, AAA recommends travel insurance. Pre-existing medical conditions may be waived with proper coverage if travel insurance is purchased within 14 days of initial deposit only. Other conditions may apply; ask your travel agent. AAA recommends  Allianz.

Clothing/Climate

Coastal temperatures average in the mid 50's to mid 70's. Casual clothes that can be layered work best. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. 

One Suitcase per person is allowed. You may also bring a carry-on bag small enough to fit under your seat. Baggage fees are not included in the price of the trip. Baggage fees and other charges may be directly assessed by airlines or airport.

Travel Assistance

For personal comfort, group participants who need assistance are required to have a traveling companion who is capable of and totally responsible for providing needed assistance. 

GRP1025  

Consumer Disclosure Notice - Part of Contract of Service.

Please read this notice, it constitutes part of your contract for travel-related services.  AAA TRAVEL is acting as a mere agent for SUPPLIERS in selling travel-related services, or in accepting reservations or bookings for services that are not directly supplied by this travel agency (such as air and ground transportation, hotel accommodations, meals, tours, cruises, etc.). This agency, therefore, shall not be responsible for breach of contract or any intentional or careless actions or omissions on part of such suppliers, which result in any loss, damage, delay or injury to you or your travel companions or group members. Unless the term "guaranteed" is specifically stated in writing on your tickets, invoice, or reservation itinerary, we do not guarantee any of such suppliers’ rates, bookings, reservations, connections, scheduling, or handling of personal effects. Travel agent shall not be responsible for any injuries, damages, or losses to any traveler in connection with terrorist activities, social or labor unrest, climatic conditions, abnormal conditions or developments, or any other actions, omissions, or conditions outside the travel agent’s control. Traveler assumes complete and full responsibility for, and hereby releases the agent from any duty of, checking and verifying any and all passport, visa, vaccination, or other entry requirements of each destination, and all safety or security conditions at such destinations. For information concerning possible dangers at international destinations, contact the Travel Advisory Section of the U.S. State Department. For medical information, call the Public Health Service. By embarking upon his/her travel, the traveler voluntarily assumes all risks involved in such travel, whether expected or unexpected. Traveler is hereby warned of such risks, and is advised to obtain appropriate insurance coverage against them. Traveler’s acceptance and retention of tickets, reservations, or bookings after issuance shall constitute a consent of the above, and an agreement on his/her part to convey the contents hereto to his/her travel companions or group members.

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These RI chefs have tasted the world. How you can join them on a culinary tour.

Food and travel are an intoxicating combination. Imagine how tempting trips planned with local food stars could be on destinations ranging from South Korea to Portugal.

Club Adventures, AAA’s small-group adventure tour operator, has teamed up with Providence and Rhode Island chefs, restaurateurs, and beverage experts to offer curated food tours starting in August and running into next year. The concept is to see the world through a local lens with a guide who knows all the best places to eat and drink.

Of the 13 food and drink trips, some are close to home including New York City and Austin, Texas. Others are to islands including the Azores and Sicily. Mexico, Spain and Germany during Oktoberfest are other destinations. One trip offers a gluten-free and vegan adventure in Italy.

The trips will have an average size of 14 travelers. They range in time from 4 days to 10 days with prices from $1,999 to $7,979.

Bethany Hodge's 15 years in the travel industry have included designing and operating culturally immersive small group trips. Now, as head of product for Club Adventures, she is launching the new tours.

But it was a conversation with Bethany Caliaro, owner/manager of both Oberlin and Gift Horse in Providence , that planted the seed for the program. Hodge was headed to Mexico with her husband Brian and Caliaro had just returned from a trip there. She shared her list of restaurants, bars and specific dishes for the couple to try.

"I’ve been watching the food and hospitality industry in Rhode Island become a national leader in innovation, community, diversity and sustainability – all values that I use when designing Club Adventures tours," she said.

"Every one of her suggestions elevated our travel experience, and I realized that the insight and guidance of a food professional could really turn a fun trip into a memorable adventure," said Hodge.

With consumer interest in culinary travel on the rise, Hodge knew tours that showcased these mutual values could be a hit. She first pitched the idea to Caliaro and Jen Davis, who manages the beverage program at The Eddy and Durk's  Bar-B-Q , both in Providence. They connected Hodge to more of the local culinary community.

"Every single establishment that I spoke with was in," said Hodge.

Each chef/bartender/business owner has been involved in curating the itinerary, leading to an exclusive experience that can’t be found anywhere else in the market.

"While chef-led tours are certainly being done in the travel space, I believe this is a first to ever showcase a city’s leaders in the culinary space all at once as a unified portfolio," Hodge said.

"It really speaks to the community and creativity of Providence," she said.

She hopes to create even more trips for 2025 with more leaders in the Rhode Island hospitality scene, she said.

The trips and guides

The cultural exploration and food adventures will be led by an impressive group including James Beard nominated chef Ben Sukle of Oberlin and Gift Horse. He will lead a September tour to Northern Italy, Slovenia, and Croatia.

“I am incredibly excited to join everyone and experience Trieste and its surrounding cities and environs," said Sukle. "All of the nuances of the lifestyles and culture there are behind how I cook and why I love to cook."  

Caliaro will lead a fish-to-fork dining adventure in Sicily. Led by Oberlin chef Chris Pfail, the art of making kimchi is on the menu for a South Korea adventure.

Jen Davis leads two trips, one to Austin, Texas, to explore the barbecue and distillery scene and one to New York City to enjoy the city's cocktail scene.

Spain will be part of a Basque Adventure led by The Eddy's Luke Mersfelder and Britt Simons.

Mexico City and Oaxaca will be explored in a trip led by Joaquin Meza of Dolores . Germany’s Oktoberfest will be celebrated with Brendan Kennedy of Proclamation Ale in Warwick.

Robin Dionne & BJ Mansuetti who operate the RI VegFest and GFree Fests will lead the Gluten-Free and Vegan tour of Italy.

Pizza Marvin's Robert Andreozzi is another James Beard nominated chef and he will be on the Portugal & Galicia Food Adventure.

Only one guide is from outside the Rhode Island culinary restaurant world but she is no stranger to locals. Maria Lawton is the host and guide of "Maria's Portuguese Table" which is presented by WSBE Rhode Island PBS. She will lead an Azores Food Adventure and Portugal Wine & Food Adventure.

Visit clubadventures.com/food-tours/  for more information.

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