Tours & Trips through Central Croatia
Want to explore Croatia beyond just the famous coast? Central Croatia offers Zagreb's Austrian-influenced capital, Plitvice Lakes' waterfalls and boardwalks, with Samobor for cream cakes and hiking. You're visiting castles, wine regions, thermal spas. Central Croatia's less touristy than Dubrovnik and the islands, and that’s partly its appeal. The landscapes are beautiful, and it provides a different Croatia than the Mediterranean coast.
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- Choose from 25 Central Croatia tours
- 34 verified reviews from TourRadar travelers
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Verlyn • traveled in June
Great trip. Filip was amazing. I will be sharing this experience with everyone
Venice to Split - 4 Days - K
Kristina • traveled in July, 2025
I booked a tour with a hotel stay and transfer, but at every step, I received very quick and professional support. The support team helped me with all issues and even organised a transfer from the car rental office, which is a 10-minute drive from the airport.
Escape to Zagreb 3 Days, Private Tour - R
Robert • traveled in August
The trip overall was very impressive. The accommodations were very nice, our driver Phillip was a real pleasure and also, a fantastic driver. Our tours and tour guides were also very informative and delightful. I would recommend this trip for anyone wanting to get a taste of Croatia and all its beauty. Thanks to everyone for making this a memorable experience for us.
Venice to Split Express - 4 days 3 nights
The best Central Croatia tour packages
Compiled by
MelissaCentral Croatia travel expert at TourRadar
- Venice to Split - 4 Days
- Discover Croatia, Slovenia and the Adriatic Coast (2025)
- Escape to Zagreb 3 Days, Private Tour
- Venice to Split Express - 4 days 3 nights
- Coast Express - Italian Gateway Venice/Opatija to Split
- Zagreb City Break, Private Tour
- Zagreb City Stay - 5 days
- Croatia Cycling: Kvarner Islands & Opatija Wellness Discovery
- Coast Express - Croatian Gateway : Zagreb to Opatija
- Croatia Christmas Special - City combos Zagreb & Plitvice Lakes
Venice to Split - 4 Days
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Great trip. I will be sharing this experience with everyone.”
Verlyn, traveled in June
Opatija's Habsburg-era Villa Angiolina and the UNESCO-listed Plitvice Lakes National Park's 16 turquoise pools highlight this Croatian adventure. A 3-hour guided walk across interconnected waterfalls, boat ride on Lake Kozjak, and scenic train journey showcase pristine landscapes.
Duration 4 days Destinations Venice, Opatija, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Split Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator On The Go Tours From $1,525
20% Off- US$1,220You save $305
Discover Croatia, Slovenia and the Adriatic Coast (2025)
20 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The trip includes beautiful seaside towns, old cities and palaces and a spectacular national park.”
Daniel, traveled in November
Central Croatia's treasures range from Zagreb's historic funicular to Plitvice Lakes National Park's cascading waterfalls. Lyra Hotel near the park provides comfortable accommodation. Traditional village visits and local wine tastings enhance the experience at approx. $290 per day.
Duration 14 days Destinations Zagreb, Ljubljana, Novo Mesto, Opatija, Plitvica, Split, Dubrovnik Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Collette From
20% Off- US$3,749+$500 upfront costs
Escape to Zagreb 3 Days, Private Tour
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“I received very quick and professional support. The support team helped me with all issues.”
Kristina, traveled in July
This 3-day private Zagreb escape, based at Hotel Sheraton, reveals the capital's 900-year history. Ban Jelačić Square, the medieval Upper Town, and historic funicular transport visitors through time. Lotrščak Tower and Zrinjevac park round out the experience, with optional guided tours available.
Duration 3 days Destinations Zagreb Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Gulliver Travel From $274
15% Off- US$233You save $41
Venice to Split Express - 4 days 3 nights
4 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The accommodations were very nice, and our tours and tour guides were also very informative and delightful.”
Robert, traveled in July
Central Croatia unfolds from Plitvice's 16 lakes to Split's Roman heritage. A boat ride on emerald Kozjak Lake, walks along Emperor Franz Joseph's coastal path, and tours of Diocletian's Palace await. The tour features 4-star accommodations and expert guides.
Duration 4 days Destinations Venice, Opatija, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Split Age Range Ages 18+ Operator Nature Trips From
15% Off- US$1,471
Central Croatia reveals itself from Opatija's Lungomare promenade to Plitvice Lakes' 16 turquoise cascades. Hotel Admiral serves as base while touring Habsburg villas and Angiolina Park before visiting Split's Diocletian Palace. Guided tours and daily breakfast included.
Duration 4 days Destinations Venice, Opatija, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Split Age Range Ages 16+ Operator Katarina Line From
15% Off- US$1,051
The luxurious Hotel Sheraton Zagreb serves as home base for expert-guided tours through Croatia's capital. The medieval Upper Town's St. Mark's Church showcases its distinctive tiled roof, while Europe's rare open-air Dolac Market bustles below. Optional excursions to magnificent Trakošćan castle available.
Duration 4 days Destinations Zagreb Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, French, Spanish Operator Gulliver Travel From $460
15% Off- US$391You save $69
Duration 5 days Destinations Zagreb, Plitvice Lakes National Park Age Range Ages 12+ Operator On The Go Tours From $3,305
20% Off- US$2,644You save $661
Duration 7 days Destinations Omisalj, Mali Losinj, Cres, Island of Krk, Vrbnik, Fuzine, Opatija, Motovun Age Range Ages 16+ Operator 1. Cycling Tours From
20% Off- US$3,520
Duration 4 days Destinations Zagreb, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Opatija Age Range Ages 16+ Operator Katarina Line From
20% Off- US$833
Zagreb's award-winning Christmas market and Plitvice Lakes' frozen cascades create winter magic in Central Croatia. The illuminated Mandusevac fountain, historic Oktogon passage, and Tomislav Park's 2000m² ice rink offer seasonal charm.
Duration 5 days Destinations Zagreb, Plitvice Lakes National Park Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Traveljaz From
20% Off- US$1,086
What our customers ask about Tours & Trips through Central Croatia
What are the must-see highlights on a general tour of Central Croatia?
Central Croatia's key attractions center around Plitvice Lakes National Park a UNESCO site featuring 16 connected lakes and cascading waterfalls. Zagreb the country's capital draws visitors to its Upper Town where medieval buildings line cobblestone streets. The Kvarner Bay area offers coastal experiences including Opatija's seaside promenade that stretches 12 kilometers along the Adriatic. The island of Krk showcases well-preserved Venetian buildings while Učka Mountain provides sweeping views of the coastline. Most visitors find the Hotel Dubrovnik in Zagreb provides convenient access to the city's main sites. A TourRadar traveler noted "The mix of natural beauty at Plitvice Lakes and historic architecture in Zagreb made this trip unforgettable."
When is the best time to visit Central Croatia for general sightseeing?
The prime season for exploring Central Croatia runs from May through September. Summer peaks in July and August bringing warm temperatures to coastal towns like Opatija where averages reach 77°F (25°C). Those seeking fewer crowds should consider visiting in spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) when weather remains pleasant for outdoor activities. Zagreb's Christmas Market makes December a special time to visit the capital. According to a TourRadar traveler: "We visited in September and had perfect weather for exploring both the coast and inland sites without the summer crowds."
How much time should I plan for a comprehensive general tour of Central Croatia?
A thorough exploration of Central Croatia requires 7-8 days. This timeline allows visitors to spend 2-3 days discovering Zagreb's Upper Town and museums followed by a day at Plitvice Lakes National Park. The remaining 3-4 days provide time to explore the Kvarner Bay region including stops in Opatija and nearby islands. Tour options like the "Bike Cruise Kvarner Premium" package these experiences into 8-day itineraries. A TourRadar traveler commented: "Our 8-day tour gave us the perfect amount of time to see both the coastal highlights and inland attractions without feeling rushed."
What unique local experiences can I expect on a general tour in Central Croatia?
Central Croatia offers distinctive local activities from wine tasting in Vrbnik on Krk Island known for its Žlahtina wine to sampling Pag cheese on its namesake island. Zagreb's Dolac Market provides a look at daily life through local produce and handicrafts. The medieval town of Motovun welcomes visitors to explore its ancient streets. Many tours arrange meals with local families especially in smaller communities. Hotels like Central Zagreb place guests in the heart of local culture. A TourRadar traveler shared: "The local experiences especially the wine tasting in Vrbnik and meeting local families were highlights of our Central Croatia tour."
What accommodation can I expect on a general tour in Central Croatia?
Central Croatia's accommodations span from historic boutique properties to modern seaside hotels. Zagreb features the 4-star Hotel Dubrovnik in its city center while Opatija's Riviera hosts elegant waterfront properties. Tours often combine city and coastal stays providing varied experiences throughout the region. The Sheraton Zagreb offers upscale rooms and amenities while smaller hotels in Opatija provide direct sea views. A TourRadar traveler mentioned: "The mix of city and coastal hotels gave us a great variety of experiences particularly loved our stay at Hotel Central in Zagreb with its perfect location."
What kind of cuisine can I expect to experience in Central Croatia?
Central Croatian food blends inland and coastal cooking traditions. Zagreb restaurants near Hotel Dubrovnik serve local specialties like štrukli a cheese-filled pastry. The Kvarner Bay region focuses on fresh seafood while inland areas showcase Istrian truffles. Local wines particularly from Plešivica complement meals at both traditional konobas (taverns) and contemporary restaurants. A TourRadar traveler shared: "The food variety was amazing - from Zagreb's hearty dishes to fresh Adriatic seafood in Opatija every meal was a new discovery."