Central Croatia: Zagreb & Plitvice Lakes

This guided Central Croatia tour offers Irish holidaymakers a fantastic opportunity to discover a side of the country often overlooked by those heading straight for the coast. Based in the vibrant capital of Zagreb for seven nights, you will not have to worry about constantly packing and unpacking. Instead, you can settle into your centrally located hotel and focus on enjoying the rich history, Baroque architecture, and stunning natural wonders of the region.

Zagreb itself is a delight to explore. Our guided walking tour takes you through the historic Upper Town, famous for its colourful rooftops and medieval streets. You will visit unique sites like the Museum of Cravat—honouring the tie’s Croatian origins—and experience a ride on the world’s shortest public funicular. We also include a tasting of ‘strukli’, a traditional local pastry, giving you a true flavour of the city.

One of the highlights of this trip is a full-day excursion to Plitvice Lakes National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site is truly one of Europe’s natural masterpieces, featuring sixteen turquoise lakes connected by a series of cascading waterfalls. The well-maintained wooden walkways make it accessible for moderate walkers, ensuring you can soak in the breathtaking views at a comfortable pace.

Our journey also takes us north to the fairytale-like Trakoscan Castle. Perched on a hill and surrounded by lush forests and a peaceful lake, it provides a fascinating look into the lives of the Croatian aristocracy. Nearby, the town of Varazdin—often called ‘Little Vienna’—awaits with its impeccably preserved Baroque squares and elegant streets.

In the charming town of Samobor, known for its pastel-coloured buildings and relaxed café culture, we will visit a local cellar to taste Bermet. This aromatic dessert wine has a storied history, having been served to European royalty and even found on the Titanic’s wine list.

With half-board accommodation included, you will enjoy breakfast and dinner daily, allowing you to sample regional cuisine while keeping your holiday costs predictable. There is also ample free time built into the itinerary, giving you the chance to browse Zagreb’s local markets, visit its many museums, or simply watch the world go by from a pavement café with recommendations from your expert guide. This tour is an excellent choice for holidaymakers from Ireland looking for a well-organised and culturally rich experience.