Why an Escorted Tour of Croatia & Slovenia Might Be the Best Travel Decision You’ll Make

Travel made effortless – experience more, worry less

In an age of independent travel and endless online booking options, many travellers overlook one of the most rewarding and stress-free ways to explore Europe — the escorted group tour.

For destinations like Croatia, Slovenia, and the Balkans, where history runs deep and logistics can be complex, joining a small or medium-sized group tour offers the perfect balance of comfort, connection, and discovery.

1. Great Value – Everything Taken Care Of

When you travel on an escorted tour, you know exactly what you’re getting for your money. Quality accommodation, daily breakfast, many meals, sightseeing, professional guides, comfortable transportation, and even transfers are usually included.

With no hidden surprises, and special group rates applied for the hotels, tour guides and transport, an escorted tour typically offers better value than travelling independently — particularly in peak season, when hotel and transport prices soar. Plus, you’ll enjoy plenty of inclusions and access to attractions negotiated by local travel experts who know the best experiences at the best prices.

2. Worry-Free Travel – No Stress, No Planning

Forget spending hours researching routes, deciphering train timetables, or navigating foreign road signs. On a professionally escorted tour, everything is arranged for you — from hotel check-ins to museum entrances, local transport, and even porterage.

You can simply sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey, knowing that your Tour Manager has every detail covered. Whether it’s crossing a border, catching a ferry, or advice on finding the best local restaurant for dinner — it’s all taken care of.

3. Safety, Security & Peace of Mind

When travelling through multiple countries or remote regions, safety and local knowledge matter. With an escorted tour, you’re never alone — you have the reassurance of 24-hour on-the-ground support, vetted accommodation, and experienced local guides who know exactly where to go (and where not to).

From secure private coaches to professional drivers and licensed tour leaders, every step of the journey is designed for your comfort and safety — especially valuable for mature travellers and solo guests.

4. Local Experts at Your Side

Perhaps the greatest advantage of an escorted tour is the people who bring the destinations to life — your guides and Tour Manager. Their insights go far beyond guidebooks: personal stories, cultural traditions, hidden gems, and restaurant recommendations you’d never find on your own.

With an expert by your side, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the region’s history, art, cuisine, and way of life — and return home with a richer appreciation of the places you’ve visited.

5. Camaraderie and New Friendships

Travel is even better when shared. Escorted tours naturally attract like-minded travellers — curious, sociable, and eager to discover new experiences. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with friends, you’ll quickly form genuine connections over shared adventures, local meals, and stunning scenery.

Many of our guests stay in touch long after their tour ends, reuniting for future journeys or even becoming lifelong friends.

6. Perfectly Designed Itineraries

Our escorted tours across Croatia, Slovenia, and the Balkans are crafted by regional experts with decades of experience. Routes are designed to maximise your time, balancing sightseeing and relaxation while minimising travel fatigue. You’ll see more in less time — without ever feeling rushed.

Typical itineraries include UNESCO-listed cities, breathtaking national parks, island visits, and authentic cultural encounters — all at a relaxed pace.

Experience Croatia & Slovenia the Easy Way

With over 30 years’ experience designing journeys through Central and Southern Europe, Croatia & Beyond offers one of the region’s largest ranges of escorted group tours. From 8-day highlights itineraries to in-depth 15-day adventures, each journey is carefully curated to provide comfort, insight, and value.

If you love travel but prefer ease, expertise, and connection, an escorted tour might just be your perfect holiday.

Plan Your 2026 Escorted Tour Today

Select 2026 escorted tours in Croatia, Slovenia and the Balkans are now on sale — book early and save up to $2,000 per couple.

Discover the effortless way to explore Europe’s most captivating region. Let us handle the details — you just sit back and enjoy the journey.

CLICK HERE to see our range of Escorted Tours

Escorted Tours of Croatia, Slovenia & the Balkans 2026: Comfort, Security and Unforgettable Experiences

If you’ve always dreamt of exploring Croatia, Slovenia and the Balkans, but prefer the peace of mind that comes with expert guidance, then our 2026 Escorted Group Tours are the perfect choice.

Tailored for mature travellers, these tours offer great value, comfort, and security, led by professional English-speaking Tour Managers and supported by knowledgeable local guides. With over 30 years of experience and an Australian family-owned heritage, we know how to balance sightseeing with relaxation, and discovery with comfort.

Why choose an escorted tour?

• Stress-free travel: From transfers to hotels, sightseeing to dining, everything is taken care of.

• Expert insights: Travel with professional Tour Managers and local guides who bring history and culture to life.

• Comfort & security: Hand-picked hotels, comfortable transport, and a welcoming group atmosphere.

• Authentic experiences: Carefully crafted itineraries include both must-see highlights and special local touches.

In 2026, select escorted tours are on sale now. Book early and save up to $2,000 per couple. With over a dozen itineraries ranging from 8 to 15 days, and departures from Zagreb, Dubrovnik, Split, Venice and Tirana, there’s a journey for every style of traveller.

Featured itinerary: Dalmatian Sunshine – 10 Days Zagreb to Dubrovnik

A favourite with our guests, this 10-day escorted journey blends historic capitals, scenic wonders, and coastal charm.

Sample highlights:

• Day 1–2 Zagreb: Begin in Croatia’s lively capital with a guided tour of the Upper Town, St. Mark’s Church, Parliament and Government Palace.

• Day 3–4 Ljubljana & Bled: Cross into Slovenia for a city tour of Ljubljana and continue to picturesque Lake Bled with a visit to Bled Castle.

• Day 5–6 Postojna, Opatija & Plitvice: Explore the Postojna Caves by underground train, stroll Opatija’s seaside promenade, and admire Plitvice Lakes National Park’s cascading waterfalls.

• Day 7 Split: Tour Diocletian’s Palace and the Old Town before free time to enjoy Split’s coastal atmosphere.

• Day 8–9 Dubrovnik: Walk Dubrovnik’s historic Old Town with visits to Rector’s Palace, Orlando’s Column and the Franciscan Monastery Pharmacy – one of the oldest in the world.

• Day 10: Say farewell to new friends as your journey concludes with a departure transfer.

It’s a compact yet richly rewarding itinerary, ideal for travellers seeking the best of Croatia and Slovenia at a comfortable pace. CLICK HERE for the full itinerary and departure dates.

Beyond Dalmatian Sunshine

Our escorted program extends further through the Balkans, with itineraries featuring Albania, Serbia and Montenegro. From UNESCO-listed sites and medieval towns to alpine scenery and Adriatic coastlines, each tour has been carefully designed for cultural depth, comfort and ease of travel:

• 8 Days Zagreb to Split – CLICK HERE
• 14 Days Zagreb to Belgrade – CLICK HERE
• 14 Days Zagreb to Tirana – CLICK HERE
• 15 Days Venice to Dubrovnik – CLICK HERE
• 8 days Split to Zagreb – CLICK HERE

Book early – 2026 tours on sale now – Limited Time Offer

With limited availability and strong demand for our group departures, now is the best time to secure your place. Save up to $2,000 per couple when booking select 2026 escorted tours by 31 October 2025.

Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of Venice, the walled beauty of Dubrovnik, or the alpine charm of Slovenia, our escorted tours offer the most seamless way to discover this enchanting part of Europe.

📌 Talk to our team today and let our expertise help you plan a journey filled with history, culture and unforgettable memories.

#CroatiaTours #SloveniaTours #BalkansTravel #EscortedTours #CroatiaAndSlovenia #TravelOver55 #CroatiaTravel #SloveniaTravel

Some of the 5 wells in Zadar at sunset

Lake Bled with its island with a church and the medieval Bled Castle perched atop a cliff.

Plitvice Lakes National Park. Croatia

ANZAC Day Tours 2026: Experience Gallipoli and Discover the Best of Turkey

For Australians and New Zealanders, few travel experiences are as moving as attending the ANZAC Day Dawn Service at Gallipoli. Standing in the early morning light, reflecting on the courage and sacrifice of the ANZAC soldiers, is a moment of deep connection and remembrance.

In 2026, you can join one of our special ANZAC Day tours in Turkey, combining the solemnity of Gallipoli with the opportunity to explore the majesty of Turkey’s culture, history and landscapes. Choose from two expertly designed itineraries – each balancing reflection with discovery.

Why join an ANZAC Day tour in Turkey?

• Be part of history: The Dawn Service at ANZAC Cove is an unforgettable event. Tickets are limited and often sell out months in advance.

• Explore more of Turkey: Beyond Gallipoli, you’ll discover Istanbul’s Old Town, Cappadocia’s unique landscapes, Pamukkale’s thermal terraces, Ephesus’ ruins and more.

• Travel with experts: With over 30 years’ experience, we are an Australian, family-owned business dedicated to creating meaningful travel experiences for our guests.

16-Day Marvellous Turkey – Departs Istanbul 12 April 2026

This in-depth journey is ideal if you’d like to see it all – from Gallipoli to Cappadocia and beyond. For full details please CLICK HERE

Sample itinerary highlights:

• Day 1–2 Istanbul: Arrival transfer and a guided city tour including Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and the bustling Spice Market.

• Day 3–4 Gallipoli & Troy: Visit ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine and Nek before crossing the Dardanelles to Canakkale. Explore ancient Troy and Pergamum.

• Day 5–7 Kusadasi & Pamukkale: Discover Ephesus, the charming village of Sirince, and the white terraces of Pamukkale.

• Day 8–11 Fethiye, Antalya & Cappadocia: Cruise Turtle Beach, explore Kayakoy village, and experience Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys with an optional hot air balloon ride.

• Day 12–13 Ankara & Safranbolu: Visit Ataturk’s Mausoleum and UNESCO-listed Safranbolu.

• Day 14–15 Gallipoli: Return to the Gallipoli Peninsula to attend the official Dawn Service.

• Day 16 Istanbul: Conclude your journey with a departure transfer.

11-Day Classical Turkey – Departs Istanbul 23 April 2026

A shorter but equally memorable tour designed to include the Dawn Service while showcasing Turkey’s highlights. For full details please CLICK HERE

Sample itinerary highlights:

• Day 1–2 Istanbul to Gallipoli: Arrival in Istanbul before travelling to Gallipoli for the overnight wait at ANZAC Cove and the Dawn Service.

• Day 3–5 Cappadocia: Fly to Cappadocia to explore the Kaymakli underground city, Goreme open-air museum and optional balloon ride.

• Day 6–7 Pamukkale & Kusadasi: Visit Hierapolis, Pamukkale’s travertine pools and the Temple of Artemis. Enjoy the charm of Sirince village.

• Day 8–9 Izmir to Istanbul: Return to Istanbul with time to reacquaint yourself with the city.

• Day 10–11 Istanbul: Conclude with a full-day guided city tour before your onward journey.

Book early – limited availability

Places at the ANZAC Day Dawn Service are limited and demand is high. To avoid disappointment, we recommend booking your 2026 tour well in advance.

Both itineraries are fully guided, with hand-picked accommodation, many meals included, and carefully balanced pacing. They’re designed to help you reflect, remember and explore the best of Turkey with comfort and peace of mind.

📌 Ready to experience ANZAC Day in Gallipoli? Contact our team today to secure your place on one of these very special 2026 departures.

#ANZACDay #Gallipoli #TurkeyTours #ANZACDay2026 #GallipoliDawnService #AustraliaRemembers #NewZealandRemembers #TravelWithMeaning #CroatiaAndSlovenia

In celebration of the recently launched dedicated website for the extremely popular region of Croatia & the Balkans; www.croatia-and-beyond.com.au by destination specialist Beyond Travel, the Australian owned and operated company has released discounts of up to $950 per couple on its popular ‘Croatia & Italy Escape’ 2023 tour if booked and deposited by January 13.

This 13-day cruise-tour combination starting in Dubrovnik and ending in Venice is now priced from only $4335 per person twin share, with numerous guaranteed departures in 2023 from May through to October.

The tour combines three of Southern Europe’s most fascinating countries on a wonderful 13 day tour – Explore Croatia’s picturesque Dalmatian Islands on a 7 night cruise departing from Dubrovnik with overnight stays in the popular harbours of Korcula and Hvar. Continue by land to northern Croatia where you will visit Plitvice Lakes, Opatija and the stunning Istrian Peninsula, then hop over the border to Slovenia to tour Postojna cave before heading to Italy via a ferry transfer. Your cruise-tour concludes with 2 wonderful nights exploring Venice, one of the world’s most romantic cities.

Price’s are AUD with USD & NZD pricing also available on request.

For more information and other offers visit https://croatia-and-beyond.com.au/cruises/land-cruise-tours/croatia-italy-escape-2023-dubrovnik-venice/

Or call 1300 363 554 to speak with a Croatia specialist.

AUSTRALIAN owned and operated destination specialist Beyond Travel, celebrating 28 years of operation this year, have launched a dedicated website for the extremely popular region of Croatia, Slovenia & the Balkans region including Greece; www.croatia-and-beyond.com.au

With more than 25 years expertise in Balkans region the team have been working hard on the new Croatia & Beyond website since early in the year, on the back of the success of the Cruise Croatia website, said general manager of sales and marketing Bryce Crampton.

He adds,” Our aim as long-standing experts is to be a one-stop shop for travellers looking for the perfect travel experience in Croatia, Slovenia & Beyond. The dedicated website allows us to provide a far more diverse range of tours and experiences then is possible in a brochure including flash sales and hot deals, updated availability, more new tours and a great range suggested itineraries such as Croatia Island hopping packages and self-drive itineraries through Croatia & Slovenia” that can be customised to suit clients specific needs.

New options include more escorted group tours many with guaranteed departures, cruise-tours combining small ship cruises with a land tour, mini-tours that make an ideal add-on to Croatia Cruises, more Dalmatian Island hopping packages and even Christmas market tours (Zagreb is renowned for having some of the best Christmas markets in Europe).

To celebrate the launch of the new dedicated website, there are some great deals available with savings up to $950 per couple on select summer 2023 tours, plus bonus Discover More Travel Vouchers to add even more value to your Croatia & Beyond booking.

To view the full range of Beyond Travel’s Croatia, Slovenia & Balkans product visit www.croatia-and-beyond.com.au  or for more details email info@beyondtravel.com.au