Croatia The Second Time Around

Day 1: Arrival in Zagreb – A Taste of Local Life

Welcome back to Croatia! Upon arrival in Zagreb, transfer to your boutique hotel and settle in before setting out to explore the capital’s charming Upper Town (Gornji Grad). Wander through its medieval streets, admire the striking tiled roof of St. Mark’s Church, and stop by the Museum of Broken Relationships, an offbeat yet captivating space filled with personal stories from around the world. Stroll through the vibrant Dolac Market, where locals shop for fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and homemade delicacies. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at a traditional restaurant, sampling štrukli, a signature Zagreb dish made of dough and cheese, paired with local wines.

Day 2: Samobor & The Countryside – Baroque Beauty & Sweet Delights

After breakfast, take a short drive to Samobor, a charming Baroque town nestled in the foothills of the Žumberak Mountains. Walk through its cobbled streets, visit King Tomislav Square, and indulge in a slice of kremšnita, the town’s legendary custard pastry.

Continue to the Plešivica Wine Region, known as the “Champagne of Croatia.” Visit a family-run winery for a tasting of sparkling and orange wines, followed by a rustic lunch featuring locally sourced ingredients. In the evening, return to Zagreb and enjoy the city at your leisure.

Day 3: Trakošćan Castle & Varaždin – Castles, Palaces & Cultural Heritage

This morning, venture north to Trakošćan Castle, one of Croatia’s most picturesque fortresses, surrounded by a serene lake and lush forested hills. Explore the castle’s grand halls, medieval weapons collection, and panoramic terrace before continuing to Varaždin, Croatia’s former capital.

Renowned for its elegant Baroque architecture and vibrant arts scene, Varaždin’s Old Town is a delight to explore. Visit Varaždin Castle, stroll along the Drava River promenade, and admire the unique exhibits at the Angel Museum, home to an extraordinary collection of angel-themed artworks. After lunch at a local restaurant, return to Zagreb for your final evening in the capital.

Day 4: Istria – Olive Oil, Truffle Hunting & Venetian Heritage

After breakfast, we head to the Istrian Peninsula, Croatia’s gastronomic paradise. Arrive in Motovun, a medieval hilltop town with breathtaking views over vineyards and forests. Join a local truffle hunter and his trained dogs for an authentic truffle-hunting experience, followed by a tasting of truffle-infused delicacies.

We then continue to Grožnjan, an artist’s haven filled with galleries and artisan workshops, before stopping at an olive oil estate for a tasting of award-winning oils. By evening, arrive in Rovinj, a postcard-perfect coastal town, where you’ll check into a boutique hotel and enjoy a relaxed evening by the sea.

Day 5: Rovinj & Pula – Coastal Charms & Roman Heritage

Start the morning with a walking tour of Rovinj’s enchanting Old Town, a maze of cobblestone alleys leading to St. Euphemia’s Church, where stunning views of the Adriatic await. Browse local artisan shops before heading to Pula, home to one of the world’s best-preserved Roman amphitheaters.

Explore Pula’s Roman Forum, the Temple of Augustus, and its historic city center before enjoying a seafood lunch at a waterfront konoba. In the evening, return to Rovinj for a sunset cruise through Lim Fjord, a breathtaking natural inlet known for its oyster farms and serene beauty.

Day 6: Zadar & Nin – Ancient Ruins & The Sounds of the Sea

Today, we travel south along the coast to Zadar, a city blending Roman history with contemporary art. Visit St. Donatus Church, walk through the remains of the Roman Forum, and experience the mesmerizing Sea Organ, a one-of-a-kind installation that transforms ocean waves into music. A short drive brings us to Nin, one of Croatia’s oldest settlements, home to Croatia’s smallest cathedral and historic salt pans, where you’ll learn about traditional salt harvesting. After a seafood lunch featuring black risotto, return to Zadar for an evening at your leisure, exploring its lively waterfront promenade.

Day 7: Pag Island – Cheese, Lace & Lunar Landscapes

This morning, we cross the bridge to Pag Island, known for its unique moonlike landscapes and time-honored traditions. Visit a local dairy farm to see how Paški sir (Pag cheese) is made and enjoy a tasting of different varieties. Stroll through the old town of Pag, where artisans still craft the delicate, UNESCO-listed Pag lace by hand. After a seaside lunch, spend the afternoon unwinding on one of the island’s quiet beaches before heading back to Zadar for the night.

Day 8: Inland Dalmatia – Wine Roads & Village Traditions

Head inland to Imotski, a hidden gem surrounded by rugged limestone cliffs. Marvel at the vibrant hues of the Blue and Red Lakes, two striking karst formations with fascinating local legends.The journey continues to a traditional Dalmatian village, where locals welcome you for a hands-on cooking experience. Learn to prepare peka, a slow-cooked dish of meat and vegetables prepared under an iron bell, paired with Plavac Mali wines. Celebrate your final night in Croatia with a farewell dinner, featuring live traditional music in a rustic setting.

Day 9: Departure from Split

After breakfast, transfer to Split Airport for your departure, or extend your stay to visit nearby islands such as Vis or Brač, where unspoiled beaches and hidden coves await.