How to Book a Croatia Tour
Croatia embodies the Mediterranean fantasy of sapphire waters, ancient walled towns, and unforgettable flavors. From eclectic galleries to lavish museums, Venetian stone buildings to scenic pebbled beaches, Croatia hosts a blissful coastline and hints of European imperial history. Graced with an indelible spirit with scenery that sweeps from the Adriatic to the hinterlands, you can find homestyle cooking, elegant truffles, and superb Croatian hospitality.
There are three ways to plan and book a trip:
1. Get a customized tour planned and booked by a travel professional. Travel independently on your own schedule.
2. Book a group tour. Join an escorted group tour with a fixed departure date.
3. Plan and book a trip yourself.
Zicasso offers the best solution for a customized tour by matching you with top travel specialists who plan and book the trip for you. Our travel agency division, Marageti, specializes in helping you book an escorted group tour. There is no extra cost to you for either service.
Custom Tours
A customized tour is one that is planned by a travel specialist according to your specific interests, preferences, and schedule. Whether you desire a family-friendly adventure or a romantic getaway, each of the accommodations, activities, and destinations is tailored to your preferences. The knowledge and experience of your travel specialist make a big difference. Zicasso has spent thousands of hours vetting the best travel partners. We act as a referral service, matching you with specialists that best meet your goals and priorities.
Escorted Group Tours
A group tour offers the advantage of convenience at a great value. The schedule is fixed, the itinerary is pre-planned, and a dedicated tour director travels with the group throughout the trip. A group tour can be 30 - 50% less expensive than an equivalent customized tour. Out of the many hundreds of group tours, how do you select the right one for you? Our travel agency division, Marageti, has sales agents who specialize in helping travelers weigh the pros and cons of each group tour. We give you personalized recommendations to find the best tour for you.
Goals and Priorities
What are your goals and priorities for the trip? These should drive your decision for either a customized tour or a fixed departure group tour. We are here to help you make the right decisions to make your dream trip a reality.
Must-See Destinations in Croatia
Zicasso has worked alongside our travel specialists to organize our recommendations for any length of trip. A custom Zicasso tour considers your time and goals when visiting Croatia.
How and where you travel depends on your goals in Croatia. The off-season offers different experiences than the popular summer season. We suggest the following examples for the first-time Croatia traveler depending on the length of your trip.
7 to 9 Day Trips
If you have between one week to nine days in Croatia, we recommend that you use Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik as bases to explore the surrounding beauty of the country. How you organize where you go and what you see will help you maximize your experience and save time. Your Zicasso travel specialists will ensure that your trip is organized in the best way possible.
7 Days
Days 1-2: Zagreb
Days 3-5: Split
Days 6-7: Dubrovnik
8 Days
Days 1-3: Zagreb
Days 4-6: Split
Days 7-8: Dubrovnik
9 Days
Days 1-3: Zagreb
Days 4-7: Split
Days 8-9: Dubrovnik
If you have more time (10-16 Days), we recommend:
If you have approximately two weeks in Croatia, we suggest you indulge in the country’s natural beauty and celebrated flavors by visiting other unique destinations. With around 14 days in Croatia, you can visit the original destinations of Zagreb, Split, Dubrovnik and add Rovinj, Zadar, Sibenik, and Vis. You can also extend your time in the region with day trips to sites like Montenegro or cities such as Budapest, Hungary or Ljubljana, Slovenia.
All Zicasso tours are customized to your preferences, but here is how we recommend spending your time:
10 Days
Days 1-2: Zagreb
Days 3-5: Rovinj
Days 6-8: Split
Days 9-10: Dubrovnik
12 Days
Days 1-3: Zagreb
Days 4-6: Rovinj
Days 7-9: Split
Days 10-12: Dubrovnik
14 Days
Days 1-2: Zagreb
Days 3-5: Rovinj
Days 6-7: Zadar
Days 8-9: Sibenik
Days 10-12: Split
Days 13-14: Dubrovnik
15 Days
Days 1-2: Zagreb
Days 3-5: Rovinj
Days 6-7: Zadar
Days 8-9: Sibenik
Days 10-12: Split
Day 13: Korcula
Days 14-15: Dubrovnik
16 days
Days 1-2: Zagreb
Days 3-5: Rovinj
Days 6-7: Zadar
Days 8-9: Sibenik
Days 10-11: Split
Days 12-13: Vis
Day 14: Korcula
Days 15-16: Dubrovnik
How many days is enough to see Croatia?
Between 9 to 10 days is a great amount of time to see the highlights of Croatia. If you can spend up to 10 days in the country, you can use three main cities as hubs to explore the surrounding history, landscapes, coastline, and culture. By spending more time in each city, you can better experience the authentic charms of each location while also sampling the diverse scenery that changes across the country.
Essential Experiences for the Best Croatia Vacation
During your Croatia tour, you can take a speedboat to the Blue Cave, wander down ancient medieval alleys, sample delicious wines in the countryside, or search for rare truffles. You can also find fantastic beaches, pristine lakes, tranquil islands, and fashionable art galleries.
Best Way to Experience Zagreb
Zagreb is a town made for exploration with neighborhoods that define the customs and political heart of Croatia. Cafe culture, elegant restaurants, distinctive architecture, lively plazas, stylish boutiques, and opulent museums showcase the diversity of Croatia’s capital city. You can enjoy the following essential experiences for your first time in Zagreb.
What to See & Do
The Main Must-Do Tours in Zagreb (2-3 days depending on pace)
Secret Histories
- Discover the intimate secrets and remarkable stories that create a sense of the city’s history when walking along Zagreb’s upper town.
Cultural Experiences
- Enjoy the pedestrianized lane of Tkalciceva to find vibrant cafes and welcoming restaurants as well as intimate shops that line both sides of the street.
- Indulge in the indelible ambiance of the Dolac Market, where farmers from around Zagreb showcase fruits, vegetables, and meats near the main square.
Artistic Interpretations
- Delight in Zagreb’s reputation as hosting the largest number of museums per square meter. Some of Zabreb’s galleries include the Mushroom Museum, Museum of Illusions, and the Lauba, which is an Austro-Hungarian riding stable turned interactive showroom.
Best Way to Experience Split
Split represents greater Dalmatian life with a striking balance between the traditional and the contemporary. Modern shops, restaurants, and bars contrast ancient walls, and coastal mountains juxtapose the captivating turquoise of the Adriatic Sea. The following list represents essential experiences you can have when in Split.
What to See & Do
The Main Must-Do Tours in Split (2-3 days depending on pace)
Experience Local Art
- Revel in the wonders of local art galleries as contemporary sculptures at the Mestrovic Gallery accentuate 14th-century works in the Gallery of Fine Arts.
Adriatic Views
- Experience the true beauty of the Adriatic from the summit of Marjan Hill or from a speedboat to visit the Blue Cave.
- Embrace the nautical paradise of Kornati National Park. Here, sailing between 89 islands provides an unforgettable scenic adventure.
Local Culture
- Uncover local culture and life at the Pazar Market, where fruits, cheeses, meats, and vegetables reflect the typical cuisine you can enjoy on a picnic.
Best Way to Experience Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is the Pearl of the Adriatic with seaside views of the Dalmation Coast, a historic Old Town, and an artistic history that celebrates its local heritage. Picturesque streets, heritage palaces, and the looming peak of Mt. Srd press against the azure water of the sea. The below information represents some of the essential experiences you can in Dubrovnik.
What to See & Do
The Main Must-Do Tours in Dubrovnik (2 days depending on pace)
Old-Town Culture
- Explore the living history of Dubrovnik’s historic ramparts, cobbled lanes, and port, where shops and restaurants add ambiance among the medieval walls.
- Discover where fairytale and history converge when discovering film locations for the hit show Game of Thrones.
Flavors of Dubrovnik
- Delight in the flavors in and around Dubrovnik with a wine tour that highlights grape varietals and tastes that are unique to the area.
Special Interests & Activities in Croatia
Traveling with Zicasso provides you with exclusive access to many activities, excursions, and tours for a distinctive experience. The following information offers insight into our recommended experiences and can be tailored to focus on your unique interests.
Best Food & Wine Destinations
The varied flavors of Croatian food and wine stem from the two distinctive gastronomic traditions of the country. The islands and coastline celebrate the abundance of seafood with Mediterranean influences, and the inland hinterlands reflect the culinary heritage of Central Europe. Regional specialties abound, from Istria’s truffles to Dalmatian lobster, spicy sausage to schnitzel stuffed with cheese and ham. Cafes, bars, and restaurants reflect heritage in regional and national specialites, resulting in five Michelin-starred restaurants as of 2019. Wineries and vintners along the coast and inland showcase the variety of flavors found in the soil.
Istria
The Istria region in southwestern Croatia is a key winegrowing area that produces celebrated fruity and dry white wines and New World styles. The crisp, refreshing, and aromatic wines include Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling grapes, Syrah, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Often referred to as Croatia’s Tuscany, the exciting region highlights a mixture of Slovenian, Italian, Austrian, and Balkan winegrowing perspectives.
Central Dalmatia
The wine history of Central Dalmatia embodies the greater heritage of Croatia with tales of indigenous grapes that have evolved into a sophisticated wine culture. From ancient Greeks to modern Hvar, the Roman, Venetian, and Communist cultures remain present in the stories of Central Dalmatian wine. Wines of the region include Vugava on the island of Vis, which is an ancient grape similar to a Viognier.
Zicasso’s Exclusive Access to Croatia Best Wine
A Zicasso travel specialist can organize private tours and tailor exclusive food and wine visits for you. You can experience a private cooking class on a sailboat or cycle through the countryside to stop at award-winning wineries. You can also learn more about Croatia’s diverse timeline of wine history, production, and ancient varietals that date back to ancient Greeks from a local sommelier.
Art & History
Art in Croatia takes inspiration from the diverse history and turquoise water of the Adriatic Sea. The hinterlands, mountains, medieval architecture, and islands represent Croatia’s natural and historical wonders through a colorful lens. Artistic expression embraces the heritage of the country and spans centuries, from ancient treasures to contemporary masterworks and from 16th-century walls to dynamic modern sculptures.
Must-See Art Museums & Attractions:
- Zadar - The contemporary seaside promenade acts as a living work of modern art and includes the Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun.
- Museum of Naive Arts - The galleries display works dedicated to self-taught artists whose diversity highlights lively and colorful folk art.
Art & History
History in Croatia spans millennia, from the Greeks to the Romans and the Venetians to the Austro-Hungarians. Culture and tradition reflect how the country was passed over by empires and overrun by invading armies to build a modern nation that echoes with the culture of its past. The influence of Illyrians, Slavs, Christian kings, Venetian sailors, Ottoman Turks, and Napoleonic forces remain prevalent in the cuisine, architecture, artistic sensibilities, and sailing traditions.
The collection of art museums in Zagreb highlights the importance of modern self-expression, while fishing villages on secluded islands retain a sense of tranquil connection to the azure waters. The rolling green hills in Istria, the celebrated coastline around Split, and the hinterlands outside of Zagreb share the diverse stories of local communities that each possess their own diverse traditions. On a customized Zicasso trip, we can design tailored tours with specialized guides, such as members of the art community in Zadar or maritime archeologists with a PhD. We can also organize history-focused small-group tours with a certified guide.
Active Tours
Active tours in Croatia reveal the diverse land and seascapes throughout the nation by unveiling its stoic waters, rolling hills, and tremendous vistas. We recommend the following active experiences when visiting Croatia.
Hiking
- Paklenica National Park - The southern slopes of Velebit Mountain host two gorges and countless trails, including a hike to the Anica Kuk summit at 2,335 feet above sea level.
- Ucka Mountain - The charming mountaintop views possess a single stone tower and a 360-degree panorama of the Istrian Peninsula, Adriatic islands, and Gorski Kotar mountains. From here, you can also see Venice and the Alps to the northwest.
Cycling
- Hvar - The island of Hvar offers a scenic cycling route along the coastline that opens to views of yachts, fishing towns, hilltop hamlets, and antique stone houses.
Maritime Activities
- Dalmatian Islands - The Adriatic archipelago offers the perfect playground for fans of maritime activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, fishing, and speedboats.
Private Excursions and Special Access
Zicasso’s travel specialist partners have connections for tours that are perfect for insider access. Each excursion or activity is customized to your specific goal when traveling in Croatia to curate the most memorable experience. The following list offers some examples but the possibilities are endless:
- Bask in the romantic ambiance of a private cave turned restaurant for an exclusive 5-course meal with a personal butler and chef.
- Sail between the Dalmatian Islands on a private sailboat for sensational views, incredible cuisine, and aquatic activities.
How much is a tour of Croatia?
The starting price of a custom-tailored Croatia trip is approximately $200 per person, per day. For an escorted group tour, the starting price can be approximately $150 per person, per day.
The cost of a Croatia vacation is dependent on several factors, such as the:
- Length of your trip
- Season (month) of travel
- Class of hotel
- Number of locations/cities you visit
- Number of guided day tours and activities (e.g., cooking class, wine tasting, etc.)
- How much you spend on meals, shopping, etc.
A vacation such as this is often the biggest purchase of the year. It will also likely be one of the most memorable experiences of your lifetime. To get the most out of your trip, we highly recommend using an expert Croatia travel specialist to plan a customized Croatia tour that is tailored to your specific interests and budget. You can also join an escorted group tour so that most travel arrangements are pre-planned for you. This way, you can travel hassle-free and relax while a professional tour director takes care of all logistics and any issues that might arise.
The cost of a tailor-made Croatia tour typically starts at $2,000 per person for a 10-day trip, i.e., at $200 per person, per day during the low or mid-season.
This includes:
- 3-star hotels (shared twin room)
- Some guided day tours and activities
- Transportation, such as airport transfers and domestic flights
A 5-star, tailor-made Croatia tour, where most services are upgraded and extra unique experiences are included, typically starts at $5,000 per person for a 10-day trip, or $500 per person, per day.
Everyone’s priorities, interests, and preferences are different. Submit a trip request on Zicasso, and we will personally match you with an expert trip planner who will help you customize your dream trip or help you to select the right group tour while also taking your budget into consideration.
Best Time to Visit Croatia
The best time to visit Croatia is between May to early-June and again from the end of September to October. These months represent the shoulder season, which is when the weather is warm along the Adriatic Sea, and the inland regions see far smaller crowds. Summer months like July and August are hot and crowded but offer the highest probability of great weather for maritime activities; however, there is also a high probability of canceled active tours, such as cycling and hiking, as temperatures reach approximately 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
March and April have unpredictable weather. It can be windy and cold one day and sunny and warm the next. The water in May and June can still be cold from the warming winter months, but in September and October, the Adriatic Sea will still be warm after the summer.
The climate may vary throughout Croatia. The typical weather of the Mediterranean is predominantly shaped by dry summers and rainy winters. The mountains and inland regions see dramatic drops in temperature during the winter, while the hinterlands and valleys possess hot, humid summers.
How far in advance should I plan a trip to Croatia?
To ensure that you can enjoy your time wisely during your trip, you should plan your Croatia vacation up to five months in advance, especially if you wish to visit popular destinations like Dubrovnik or Hvar in the summer. If you wish to travel during the shoulder season, you could plan your trip three months in advance. Your Zicasso travel specialist will be able to organize your best trip by focusing on your preferred hotels, destinations, activities, and tours, especially when they are given a long enough timeline to plan your trip.
Modes of Transportation in Croatia
The best way to see Croatia in 10 days is by private car. A private car driven by a knowledgeable local guide can stop at local areas, travel at your pace, and provide you with a more authentic perspective of Croatia. Your driver could offer a different perspective from which to view the history, culture, and landscape of Croatia by knowing specialized shops or local information you could not experience otherwise.
Trains
Trains do exist in Croatia, but they generally do not connect to the more popular tourist areas of the country.
Your Zicasso travel partner ensures that your logistics are as smooth as possible by including private airport transfers and domestic flights between destinations. This helps create a stress-free Croatia tour.
What to Consider When Traveling Through Croatia
When traveling on a Croatia tour, safety and travel logistics are always important considerations. The following information answers important travel questions you may have before visiting Croatia, so you can have a stress-free vacation.
Is Croatia Safe for Travel?
Croatia is very safe for travelers. Popular tourist areas see issues of petty theft, such as pickpocketing, but these instances are rare. Your overall safety will not be jeopardized, and if you keep a diligent eye on your belongings, they will remain safe. The majority of locals speak English, especially in larger cities, which makes it easy for travelers from North America to communicate, feel safe, and get around.
Travel Insurance
You’ve booked your dream vacation, now protect it with travel insurance. A wide range of factors can leave your vacation in limbo. Medical emergencies, inclement weather, and unexpected cancellations can cause turmoil for your trip, so in the unlikely event of a disaster, get the travel insurance coverage that provides peace of mind. To get a quote, visit our travel insurance page.
For Families
When traveling Croatia as a family, you can visit two or three cities to keep travel time to a minimum and partake in tours that are more family-focused. Families traveling with small children will want to prepare as tours, outdoor activities, and cities with cobblestone streets can make it challenging to explore and discover with a stroller. Your Zicasso travel expert will make sure you can find appropriate family-friendly activities around Croatia that are suitable for children of all ages.
For Seniors
Seniors should consider the weather and terrain when traveling in Croatia. National parks can be warm, and those with mobility challenges should focus on the importance of accessibility within the parks, such as the walking trails and undulating terrain. Rainy weather can turn cobblestone streets slippery. Your Zicasso travel specialist can ensure that your driver and hotel staff help circumvent any obstacles, such as stairs, distances between arrival points, and hotel lobbies.
For Couples
A travel specialist understands the best destinations and activities in Croatia for couples who are eager to balance romantic experiences and active exploration. Secluded coastal properties, thrilling outdoor excursions, and private dinners will create intimate memories. Exclusive tours will also shape your custom-tailored experience, such as truffle hunting followed by a private multi-course lunch.
For Travelers with Disabilities
Your Croatia travel specialist can help any guests with mobility challenges by focusing on alternative arrangements to concerns, such as navigating antique cobblestone streets or less accessible historic buildings. Our experts’ invaluable experience and attention to important details will ensure that you can enjoy Croatia’s natural beauty, stunning waters, and delightful accommodations with ease.
Best Airports to Fly In & Out of Croatia
The best airport to fly in and out of when visiting Croatia is Zagreb’s Franjo Tuđman Airport Zagreb (ZAG). As Croatia’s capital city, the majority of flights from North America will travel to Zagreb. A large number of flights also arrive at Dubrovnik Airport (DBV).
The most convenient route for most travelers is to fly into Zagreb and out of Dubrovnik or vice versa. This takes away the need to return to the city of your arrival and spend valuable time backtracking instead of enjoying your trip. The busiest airports in Croatia are:
- Zagreb (ZAG)
- Dubrovnik (DBV)
- Split (SPU)
Domestic Flights
Domestic flights in Croatia are available and quick. The airlines travel between the major airports, and flights last an average of 1.15 hours. When considering that you need to arrive at the airport two hours before your departure in addition to the travel time from your hotel to the airport and the airport to your hotel after landing, it takes nearly the same amount of time to fly between destinations as to drive. Driving allows you to see more of the country and to stop for excursions or in different destinations along the way.
Flights Via Zicasso
Zicasso Air Desk is an international air ticketing service that eliminates the stress of finding and booking the right flights for your upcoming vacation by employing the same personalized service you can expect from planning a trip with Zicasso. Our competitive flight pricing, 24x7 Service & Support, and Complimentary Consultation of Routing vs. Pricing with an Expert Flight Specialist make finding the perfect flight for your trip effortless.
Recommendations for the Return Traveler
When returning for another Croatia tour, you can travel into the depths of the cities and countryside beyond the essential destinations of Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik. You can bask in the natural wonders of fantastic heritage of destinations that are equally worth your attention by visiting the following recommendations during your return trip.
Sibenik
The city of Sibenik has a medieval heart that contrasts the azure Adriatic with white stone. The labyrinth of cobbled lanes and backstreets makes it feel undiscovered by travelers. The distinctive fortifications reflect the heritage of the region and offer a great proximity to the popular sites of Croatia. Sibenik is also considered the oldest native Croatian city on the Adriatic Sea.
Korcula
The island of Korcula shines with vineyards, olive groves, and captivating villages that overlook the Adriatic. The diverse landscape immerses you in pine forests that were once harnessed by Greek settlers and sandy beaches that embody the nation’s treasured coastline. The eponymous town is rumoured to be the birthplace of Marco Polo. Here, marble streets lead to Renaissance and Gothic buildings that highlight the local grandeur and island charm.
Related Croatia Tours by Zicasso
Here is our list of other Croatia Tours we offer:
Themed:
Duration:
Specific Croatia Destinations:
