8 Best Tours and Day Trips from Zagreb

Zagreb is one of the most visited destinations on the Balkan Peninsula and a city that offers a wide variety of attractions, but it is also one of the main places to use as a base for discovering the area around the Croatian capital. From here you can also explore the most emblematic cities of other neighbouring countries, such as Slovenia.

Some of the best things to do in Zagreb include touring the lakes of the surrounding national parks, discovering the most striking Croatian castles, wine tasting in the wine destinations, exploring Croatia's Roman history in the picturesque villages of Istria and sampling the regional cuisine in Plesivica.

If you want to see one of the most popular places in Croatia, a trip to Plitvice and Rastoke from Zagreb is a must. These experiences will allow you to discover the Plitvice lakes that make up a national park that has been declared a World Heritage Site by Unesco. Here you will find a natural paradise made up of 16 lakes interconnected by waterfalls and surrounded by lush forests.

The Plitvice Lakes are distinguished by their unmistakable shades of blue and green, which create a captivating landscape for visitors. Here you can explore the trails that wind along the lakes and enjoy panoramic views from strategically placed bridges and viewpoints. In addition, you can also visit Rastoke, known as the Mill Town This settlement is characterised by its waterfalls and is built on streams.

These tours in Plitvice Lakes National Park will also allow you to discover the biodiversity of the local flora and fauna that have made this destination one of the most popular and visited natural sites in Croatia.

Useful details

• Price: approximately 85 euros per person.
• Duration: about 10 hours.

One of the best alternatives to Zagreb, due to its Mediterranean geography, is to visit the nearby cities including Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia. This destination will captivate you with its historical and architectural charm, which includes the old town with the Ljubljana Castle, its famous cobbled alleys, baroque buildings and squares where you can find cafes and small restaurants.

In addition, these experiences, which include a guided tour of the city's main sights, also include Lake Bled, which frames Bled Castle on top of a surrounding hill and is one of the most photographed sites in the Balkans due to its central island that houses the Church of the Assumption. There you can embark on the traditional pletnas, wooden barges that will take you out for panoramic views of the lake.

These excursions, then, will take you to discover two of the most beautiful places on the Balkan Peninsula, where you can take some of the best photographs of your trip and discover the contrasts between the bustling city life of Ljubljana and the natural landscapes around the Slovenian capital.

Useful details

• Price: approximately 115 euros per person.
• Duration: between 10 and 11 hours.

Discover the magic of Zagreb on this guided walking tour of the Old Town. Accompanied by an expert guide, you will walk through the streets full of history and learn how the city has evolved from the Middle Ages to the present day. This walking tour is perfect for those who want to understand the Croatian identity while enjoying the architecture, culture and curious legends of the capital.

During the tour, you will visit iconic sites such as Ban Jelačić Square, the heart of the city, the Zagreb Cathedral, one of the tallest in Croatia, and the picturesque St. Mark's Church, with its characteristic colourful tiled roof. You will also discover lesser-known sights, such as the Blood Bridge, which hides a dark episode of local history.

In addition to the history, the tour will give you an insight into Zagreb's vibrant daily life, from its markets and cafes to its squares filled with street performers. It is an ideal experience for first-time visitors who want a comprehensive introduction to the city's past and present.

Interesting details

This Croatian War tour will introduce you to one of the most recent and shocking chapters in the history of Croatia. Through the stories of an expert guide, you will understand how the conflict unfolded and how it affected the people of Zagreb and the rest of Croatia on their path to independence.

Along the way, you will visit key sites such as the Grič Tunnel, used as a shelter during the war, and Ban Jelačić Square, where important demonstrations took place. You will also see the Museum of Broken Relations, which houses personal stories from the era and offers an intimate insight into the effects of the conflict on the lives of Croatians.

This tour is a unique opportunity to better understand Croatia's recent history from a local perspective. It will also allow you to see Zagreb through different eyes, learning about the changes and transformations the city has undergone from the war to the present day.

Interesting details

Exploring Zagreb by bike is one of the most fun and dynamic ways to get to know the city. This bike tour allows you to cycle through the streets and parks in the company of a local guide, discovering both the main sights and some lesser-known corners. It is an ideal option for those who are looking for a different experience, far from the conventional walking tours.

The itinerary includes stops at iconic sites such as Ban Jelačić Square, the Kaptol quarter and Zrinjevac Park, where you can admire Zagreb's architecture and history while enjoying a relaxed stroll. You will also ride through the lower part of the city, with wide avenues and green areas, perfect for leisurely cycling.

You don't need any previous experience, as the route is designed for all levels and the guide will adapt to the pace of the group. It is also a great way to make the most of your time in Zagreb and get to know the city from a more active and ecological perspective.

Interesting details

The surroundings of Zagreb hide a medieval charm and one of the best ways to discover this profile is to take part in a tour of the most representative castles of the region, which will take you to visit Sveti Kriz Zacretje and Trakoscan. Just a few hours from the Croatian capital, Sveti Kriz Zacretje sits atop a hill and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

The castle, built in the 13th century, has witnessed several historical epochs and has undergone several architectural transformations. It is also one of the few Croatian castles that you can explore inside, where you will find halls decorated with period furniture and discover the intriguing history of its former owners during the Middle Ages.

At Trakoscan Castle you can learn about the romantic architecture of the late medieval period and find a museum that houses exhibitions of art, armour and furniture from the Middle Ages. During these tours you will also have time to stroll through the well-preserved gardens of this monumental building.

Finally, on these excursions you can also take part in a wine tasting experience that will allow you to discover the wine culture of the region and also several of its culinary specialities.

Details of interest

• Price: approximately 181 euros per person.
• Duration: around 8 hours.

If you are a lover of good food, this gastronomic tour of Zagreb is the perfect opportunity to discover the most authentic flavours of Croatia. Accompanied by a local guide, you will tour the old town in a small group and taste five traditional Croatian dishes, paired with typical Croatian drinks.

The tour will take you to the best Croatian restaurants and eateries, where you'll sample delicacies such as burek, a meat-filled pie, and the famous strukli, a fresh cheese cake. You will also visit the Dolac farmers' market, the largest in Zagreb, where you can sample fresh ingredients, observe the vibrant local life and enjoy an atmosphere full of colour and tradition.

Interesting details

If you want to discover the coastal beauty of Croatia, a trip from Zagreb to Pula and Rovinj is a must. Located approximately 3 hours' drive from the capital, Pula is known for its Roman amphitheatre, the Arena of Pula, one of the best preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world. Built in the 1st century, this coliseum is a testament to the region's Roman past and you can explore its galleries and arches.

Rovinj is a picturesque seaside town with narrow cobbled streets, colourful facades and the baroque Church of St. Euphemia, flanked by art galleries and restaurants overlooking the Adriatic Sea. In addition, Rovinj's harbour is home to fishing boats and traditional ships that bring back the harbour spirit of this destination.

These experiences will allow you to discover Istria's historic architecture and panoramic platforms to discover the best views of the sea. They will also take you on a full-day tour of some of Croatia's most beautiful landscapes.

Details of interest

• Price: approximately 207 euros per person.
• Duration: about 12 hours.

You can book any of these tours from Zagreb in advance or book them once you are in the city.

You should be aware that if you plan to visit the Croatian capital during the summer or high season months, tour sites may sell out or suffer a price increase due to last minute bookings, so it is advisable to book them in advance of your trip.

On the other hand, booking in advance will allow you to organise an itinerary for your trip. Keep in mind that most of these excursions are full-day tours, so if you plan to book a guided tour of Zagreb during a short stay in the city, it is best to plan your itinerary well in advance to combine sightseeing around the city with a visit to the Croatian capital.

This type of excursion will allow you to explore many facets of Croatia's cultural, historical and natural heritage, especially if you choose to book a tour to Plitvice and Rastoke Lakes. Here you can not only discover the beauty of the tributaries, waterfalls and forests just outside Zagreb, but also get to know some of the most picturesque villages in the surrounding area.

Excursions to Ljubljana and Lake Bled will immerse you in the vibrant city life of the Slovenian capital and you will marvel at the serenity of Lake Bled and its namesake village

All of these experiences will also help you discover the Mediterranean charm of the Croatian coastline and its Roman heritage.

Most excursions from Zagreb are full-day trips, so I advise you to research and choose your destinations carefully and also take into account the following recommendations:

• Analyse distances: although many destinations are within a few hours' drive from Zagreb, it is crucial to calculate the time needed to avoid rushing. Also consider that organised tours will offer comfort and a guided experience.
• Wear appropriate clothing and footwear: if you plan to explore natural areas on an adventure tour, make sure you are prepared for weather changes with seasonal clothing, as booking a tour of Zagreb's castles in summer is not the same as booking a tour of Zagreb's castles in winter.
• Immerse yourself in the local culture: Zagreb offers a complete experience, so try the regional cuisine, interact with the locals and take advantage of opportunities to learn about Croatian history and traditions.

Taking a guided tour from Zagreb offers a number of significant advantages over exploring these sites on your own:

• Take advantage of specialised guides: the guides are experts in the history, legends and specifics of each destination, so your experience will feature insights into Croatian culture that you might miss on an independent tour.
• Optimise your tour: the convenience and efficiency of guided itineraries will allow you to visit multiple destinations in a single day, avoiding logistical worries. This allows you to book a tour to Ljubljana and Bled from Zagreb or to Plitvice Lakes without having to worry about delays and transfers.
• Enjoy a safe experience: Experienced guides not only know the best sites, but can also provide assistance in case of any unforeseen events, giving you peace of mind during the tour.
• Get priority access: guided tours often include exclusive entry to certain sites, activities or experiences, giving participants a privileged perspective and unique opportunities. By choosing a guided tour from Zagreb, you can enjoy a more complete experience.