A bite of the Balkans, a dash of Central Europe and a slice of the Mediterranean – on this 17-day adventure, you’ll get a lovely sample of Europe’s diverse delights. Wander through Dubrovnik’s World Heritage-listed Old Town among the sparkling Adriatic and explore Plitvice Lakes National Park near Zagreb. Travel up the Dalmatian Coast and cross into Slovenia, where adventure junkies can get their fix biking, hiking, canyoning or caving. Head on to Italy and live out your grandest gondola and tiramisu fantasies in Venice, stroll the twisting trails between Cinque Terre's towns and see the artworks that inspired the Renaissance in Florence. End it all in Rome – an epic hotspot with so much to see and do (including one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Colosseum) you might never want to leave!This trip is made for travellers who value their independence but also want the benefit of a local leader and a group of like-minded travellers. The itinerary has a mix of included activities and free time when your leader will offer suggestions. Please budget spending money for optional activities you want to partake in.Accommodation on this trip is basic. Hotels in Europe often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together/apart. Rooms can be small, especially compared to American or Australian standards, and in some cases bathroom facilities will be shared rather than ensuite. Some hotels contain stairs only, with no elevators.Summer temperatures can be very high in many regions visited (over 40°C), which can be uncomfortable. It’s essential to use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat and drink plenty of water. Many European hotel rooms are not equipped with air-conditioning. Please carefully consider the time of the year you wish to travel and your suitability for that season.You'll have to carry your own luggage on this trip, including some short distances between your hotel and public transport (no longer than 30 minutes). Make sure your bag doesn’t exceed our weight and size recommendations. You can find details in the 'Packing' section of the Essential Trip Information.