Adriatic Discovery: Venice, Istria & the Croatian

Your Adriatic cruise begins in the centuries-old, Italian city of Venice. Here, you will be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht to embark on a compelling journey of history, art, and natural wonders. 

Your first stop is Piran, a pretty town of red-tiled, whitewashed buildings clustered on the tip of the Piran peninsula and Slovenia’s glamorous yachting destination. Part of the Venetian empire from the late 13th century to the end of the 18th century, Piran is esteemed for its gothic-style Venetian architecture.

EmeraldPLUS: Embark on an unforgettable journey to the prestigious Lipica Stud Farm, renowned for its rich equestrian heritage and majestic Lipizzaner horses. Immerse yourself in the splendour of the stud farm with a guided walking tour, where you'll discover the elegant stables and lush pastures that have bred these noble creatures for centuries. Enjoy the added charm of a horse carriage ride through the picturesque surroundings.

Set at the apex of a long natural harbour and ringed by elegant, gently weathered Adriatic town houses and verdant hills, this fascinating Croatian town straddles both coasts on the narrowest section of the island. Mali Lošinj boasts countless natural wonders, as well as historical sites that testify to its turbulent and storied past.

Included Excursion: Step into the heart of the Adriatic with a guided Walking Tour of Mali Lošinj. This charming island town captivates with its blend of Venetian flair, Mediterranean spirit, and maritime legacy. Stroll cobbled lanes past colourful facades, explore the fragrant Losinj Aromatic Garden, and visit historic sites like the Church of St. Nicholas. Your local guide brings the island’s history to life with stories of sailors, traders, and centuries-old traditions. With stunning sea views and lush gardens, this leisurely walk reveals the soul of one of Croatia’s best-kept secrets.

Stroll around this charming Croatian coastal town, gateway to the renowned Plitvice National Park. Later in the morning, sail to Baška, famous for its old town with old stone houses and narrow streets. You will also appreciate the beautiful beaches and stunning nature here. 

Located on the western peninsula of Croatia, Opatija boasts alluring views across the Adriatic towards the Kvarner Islands and distant Istrian mountains. Known as the ‘Nice of Croatia’, Opatija  is home to lovely seaside promenades and fairy-tale villas. While here, be sure to sample some of the local specialities, mussels with pršut or fish stew.

EmeraldACTIVE: Hiking to Kamacnik Spink Board your motor coach for a scenic one-hour journey to Gorski Kotar, specifically the Vrbovsko area, where your hiking adventure begins in the breathtaking Kamacnik Canyon. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you, walking alongside the creek and crossing sturdy wooden bridges that elegantly arch over the small rapids or stretch over the water’s edge. The trail leads you through a lush valley, creating a truly enchanting scene.

Located on the Istrian Peninsula, the lovely Croatian town of Rovinj is interwoven with Italian influences. Rovinj is a charming, easily walkable town and visitors here love to explore the narrow, winding streets that reveal old buildings with colourful façades and small, striking squares. There are also plenty of art galleries as well as a picturesque harbour dotted with fishing boats.

Venice is an enchanting city that exudes an atmosphere not found anywhere else in the world. Established in the 5th century, this historic Italian city stretches across 118 small islands in the marshy Venetian Lagoon along the Adriatic. Among the many highlights in Venice, admire the grandeur of the city’s iconic canals and magnificent St. Marks Basilica. 

Venice, the city of canals, is a mesmerising masterpiece of art, architecture and history.