Five Exceptional Culinary & Cultural Experiences in Croatia & Slovenia

Some journeys are remembered for the places you see. Others stay with you because of how they made you feel.

These five hand-picked experiences go far beyond sightseeing — they invite travelers into kitchens, palaces, monasteries, and landscapes where food, culture, and storytelling come together beautifully.

1. Michelin-Inspired Culinary Cruises Along the Adriatic

Available exclusively aboard Aretha & Symphony

Created in collaboration with select travel partners, these refined Adriatic cruises combine elegant coastal routes with Michelin-inspired dining experiences onboard. Guests sail along Croatia’s most captivating shores while enjoying thoughtfully curated menus, premium ingredients, and impeccable service.

Every detail is designed to elevate the journey — from the pace of the itinerary to the dining experience itself — making this a seamless blend of exploration and indulgence.

Ideal for travelers who want understated luxury, exceptional cuisine, and comfort without compromise.

2. A Private Dinner Inside Sponza Palace, Dubrovnik

Few experiences compare to dining privately within the walls of Dubrovnik’s Old Town — and even fewer take place inside the historic Sponza Palace. This exclusive evening offers an intimate fine-dining experience surrounded by centuries of history, architecture, and atmosphere.

With candlelit elegance and complete privacy, it’s a rare opportunity to host a truly unforgettable event in one of Croatia’s most iconic landmarks.

Perfect for VIP travelers, milestone celebrations, and once-in-a-lifetime moments.

3. Plitvice Lakes: Cooking Workshop with a Michelin-Star Chef

Set near the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes, this immersive workshop brings together nature, creativity, and culinary mastery. Guests cook side by side with a Michelin-star chef, learning refined techniques while working with local, seasonal ingredients.

Beyond the recipes, the experience focuses on storytelling — the origins of each dish, the inspiration behind it, and the connection between place and flavor.

A meaningful addition for travelers who value hands-on experiences and deeper cultural engagement.

4. Prčanj: Traditional Cooking Workshop in a Historic Monastery

This is culinary heritage at its most authentic. Hosted inside a centuries-old monastery in the quiet village of Prčanj, guests dress in traditional attire and prepare time-honored recipes passed down through generations.

Using local ingredients and age-old techniques, the experience feels less like a class and more like stepping into another era — intimate, soulful, and deeply rooted in tradition.

An extraordinary cultural immersion for travelers seeking authenticity beyond the expected.

5. Bled: Traditional Slovenian Cooking Experience

In the heart of the Bled region, guests are welcomed into a warm, intimate setting to discover the flavors of Slovenia. This hands-on experience focuses on classic local recipes, seasonal produce, and traditional cooking methods that reflect the region’s culinary identity.

Relaxed, personal, and rich in storytelling, it offers a genuine connection to Slovenian culture through food.

Ideal for travelers who appreciate comfort, tradition, and honest local flavors.

These experiences are just a glimpse of what Croatia and Slovenia have to offer when explored thoughtfully and with local insight. If you’re inspired to discover the region in a deeper, more meaningful way, our team would be delighted to design a bespoke, fully customized journey through Croatia (and beyond) tailored to your interests, pace, and travel style.