Croatian Rhapsody Tour 9 days 2026 Zagreb to Dubrovnik

Individual arrival in Zagreb, followed by a private transfer to the hotel (20–45 minutes). Gourmet dinner served at the hotel.

After breakfast, embark on a guided walking tour of Zagreb with an English‑speaking guide. Discover the charm of the fortified medieval Upper Town, home to St. Mark’s Church with its iconic multicolored roof, the Parliament, the Government Palace, and a collection of elegant historic buildings.

Following the tour, continue toward the picturesque Kvarner Bay and the timeless resort town of Opatija—the cradle of Croatian tourism and once the favored spa retreat of the Habsburgs and European aristocracy, including luminaries such as Mahler, Chekhov, and Isadora Duncan.

Dinner and overnight in Opatija.

(Approximate driving time: 2 h 30 min.)

Today, discover the enchanting Istrian peninsula, beginning with a visit to Pula’s magnificent 2,000‑year‑old Roman Colosseum—one of the best‑preserved ancient amphitheaters in the world. Continue to the artistic haven of Rovinj, often considered Istria’s most beautiful town, where you’ll enjoy time at leisure to explore its charming streets and seaside ambiance.

The journey then leads to Motovun, a medieval hilltop gem, for a tasting of one of Istria’s most prized delicacies: the truffle.

Overnight in Opatija.

(Departure at 09:00, return around 18:00.)

Begin the day with an early departure to uncover the breathtaking beauty of Croatia’s oldest and most celebrated national park, a UNESCO‑protected wonder of 16 cascading lakes linked by spectacular waterfalls. Nestled in the mountainous region of Lika, Plitvice Lakes is best experienced on foot; your visit includes a serene boat ride across the emerald‑green Lake Kozjak.

The walking tour lasts approximately three hours and showcases the park’s signature turquoise landscapes and pristine nature. After this unforgettable experience, continue onward to Zadar for dinner at the hotel restaurant and an overnight stay.

(Total driving time: approximately 5 h 30 min.)

After breakfast and check‑out, enjoy a guided exploration of Zadar—an ancient coastal gem rich in history and culture. Admire landmarks such as the Roman Forum from the 1st century AD and the striking 9th‑century Church of St. Donatus. A highlight of your visit is the world‑renowned Sea Organ, an architectural marvel that transforms the movement of the waves into hauntingly beautiful melodies.

From the Old Town, continue inland to a boutique winery in the Dalmatian hinterland for a tasting of authentic Dalmatian wines and select international cuvées, accompanied by refined Croatian‑style tapas.

After this enjoyable gastronomic experience, journey onward to Split for overnight.

(Total driving time: approximately 3 hours.)

Today is a day to explore Split, a city shaped by seventeen centuries of history where Diocletian’s Palace forms the heart of a vibrant blend of Roman, medieval, and modern architecture.

Today’s lunch will be the traditional Dalmatian dish prepared for us at the Tragos restaurant in Trogir. The town of Trogir, a UNESCO site, has a fascinating 2300 years of continuous urban tradition. Its rich culture was created under the influence of old Greeks, Romans, and Venetians. With the high concentration of palaces, churches, and towers, as well as a fortresses on a small island, Trogir is sometimes referred to as the ‘floating museum town’.

En route to Dubrovnik, we will stop near Ston to visit a family‑run winery and sample the renowned “Plavac Mali,” a close relative of Zinfandel. In this winery the traditional wine making business has been passed on for generations, offering a unique story everyone wants to hear. The wine tasting includes a wine presentation on all the specifics of the wine- making process, wine tasting and a snack. Arrival to Dubrovnik, dinner and overnight.

(Approximate driving time: 5 hours.)

Completed in the 13th century, Dubrovnik’s Old Town has remained remarkably unchanged, its medieval walls still encircling the historic core. Enter through one of its ancient gates and cross the stone bridge beneath the statue of Saint Blaise (Sveti Vlaho), the city’s patron, before strolling down Stradun—the city’s iconic stone‑paved promenade. After the guided tour, enjoy free time to explore at your leisure. Overnight in Dubrovnik.

The Croatian Rhapsody tour ends in Dubrovnik after breakfast, but your adventure doesn’t have to! Extend your journey with a 2-night add-on to explore Montenegro and Mostar, or set sail on one of our unforgettable cruises departing from Dubrovnik. If you are heading home, we will provide a departure transfer to the airport.

Itinerary: B – breakfast; L – lunch; D – dinner; T – tasting