Highlights of Central Croatia, including Zagreb & Plitvice Lakes

Depart Dublin for Zagreb. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your centrally located hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax after your journey or enjoy your first impressions of Croatia’s capital. Perhaps take a stroll through the historic streets or relax with a coffee in one of Zagreb’s many charming cafés. 

This morning enjoy a guided walking tour of Zagreb’s historic city centre. Discover the charm of the Upper Town, with its colourful rooftops, medieval streets, and lively squares. Visit the unique Museum of Cravat, celebrating Croatia as the birthplace of the modern tie, followed by a visit to the House of Cartoons, showcasing Croatian illustration and animation including a tasting of strukli, Zagreb’s famous traditional dish.

Experience a ride on the world’s shortest public funicular, linking the Upper and Lower Towns. Please note, it will be a one-way ride and operation pending (currently in renovation). 

The afternoon is at leisure to continue exploring, enjoy shopping, or relax in one of the city’s leafy parks or pavement cafés. The guide will provide directions for returning back to your hotel (if not located on the main square).

Optional Workshop

Alternatively, take part in an optional Licitar Heart workshop, where you will learn to decorate Croatia’s traditional symbolic biscuit. Recognised by UNESCO, licitar hearts represent love, friendship, and good fortune — a wonderful opportunity to create a meaningful handmade souvenir. 

Today travel north to visit Trakoscan Castle, Croatia’s most famous and picturesque castle, beautifully set beside a lake and surrounded by forested hills. Enjoy a guided tour of the castle’s elegant rooms, offering insight into aristocratic life through the centuries.

Continue to the charming town of Varazdin, often referred to as “Little Vienna.” Enjoy a guided walking tour of its Baroque streets, colourful buildings, and attractive squares, followed by free time to relax and soak up the atmosphere before returning to Zagreb. 

Enjoy a relaxed day at leisure in Zagreb. Perhaps visit one of the city’s museums, browse local shops, or simply enjoy a leisurely lunch.

Today enjoy a full-day excursion to Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia’s most famous natural attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Discover a breathtaking landscape of cascading waterfalls, turquoise lakes, and wooden walkways that wind gently through the park. This unforgettable experience offers some of the most spectacular scenery in Europe, with well-maintained paths suitable for moderate walkers. 

Please note transfer time for this excursion is approx. 2.5 – 3 hours one way depending on traffic, but there will be comfort stops along the way as needed. 

Return to Zagreb in the evening. 

This morning visit the delightful town of Samobor, known for its pastel-coloured streets, café culture, and relaxed atmosphere. Explore a local wine cellar for a tasting of Bermet, a unique aromatic dessert wine once enjoyed by European royalty and even served aboard the Titanic.

Return to Zagreb with the afternoon free to relax or explore further. 

Enjoy a final full day at leisure in Zagreb. Perhaps visit a museum, explore local markets, enjoy some last-minute shopping, or simply soak up the relaxed café culture of the city. 

Today transfer to the airport for your return flight to Dublin, bringing home wonderful memories of Croatia’s castles, traditions, and stunning natural scenery.