Curator’s statement
The heart of Croatia is a journey of wonder and discovery, where history and nature unfold at every turn. From wandering the charming streets and hidden corners of Zagreb, to savoring Samobor’s local flavors and stepping into the fairytale elegance of Trakošćan Castle, each moment reveals something unexpected. The cascading waterfalls of Plitvice leave you breathless, while Varaždin’s baroque streets invite leisurely exploration and quiet admiration. This journey isn’t just about visiting—it’s about feeling the heartbeat of Croatia, where every city, town, and view becomes an enchanting memory.
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Day 1: Heritage and city discoveries in Zagreb
Zagreb city center
Morning:
Arrive in Zagreb and check in at Esplanade Zagreb Hotel (luxury) or Hotel Canopy by Hilton (boutique) for a stylish, comfortable welcome.
Begin your day with a private heritage city tour, wandering the Upper Town’s cobblestone streets. Explore landmarks like St. Mark’s Church with its iconic tiled roof, Lotrščak Tower, and the Stone Gate, absorbing the history and charm that make Zagreb unique.
Stroll through Tkalčićeva Street, lined with vibrant cafés and galleries, perfect for pausing to enjoy a coffee and watch the city’s life unfold.
Visit the Zagreb Cathedral and Dolac Market, where the colors, aromas, and local produce create a feast for the senses. Your guide can introduce hidden details and stories behind the city’s architecture and traditions.
Afternoon/evening:
Enjoy lunch at Vinodol or Didov San, sampling modern interpretations of traditional Croatian cuisine in a refined setting.
Spend the afternoon discovering more of Zagreb’s cultural gems—perhaps the Museum of Broken Relationships or an art gallery tucked in the Upper Town.
Wrap up the evening with a cocktail at a terrace café or an intimate live jazz performance at Jazz Bar Kontesa, letting the city’s vibrant rhythms set the tone for the journey ahead.
Day 2: Quaint town & local charm in Samobor
Samobor ruins
Morning:
Private transfer (~30 min) to Samobor, a picturesque town steeped in charm.
Wander the historic streets, visiting Samobor Museum and quaint squares, discovering stories of the town’s past.
Enjoy a light lunch at Konoba Akustik or Bistro Princ, sampling local delicacies and the town’s famous kremšnita pastry.
Meander through hidden lanes and soak in the small-town atmosphere, perhaps stopping at artisan shops or local markets.
Afternoon/evening:
Stroll along the Sava River or relax at a riverside café, enjoying the serene surroundings.
Return to Zagreb for the evening, with dinner at a refined city restaurant like Takenoko or Zinfandel Wine Bar.
Day 3: Castles, cycling & Baroque streets in Trakošćan & Varaždin
Varaždin
Morning:
Private transfer from your hotel in Zagreb to Trakošćan Castle (~1.5 hours). Enjoy a comfortable ride with a knowledgeable driver who can share insights about the region along the way.
Upon arrival, take a guided cycling tour around the castle grounds and surrounding trails. Discover hidden viewpoints, meadows, and the serene lake while fully immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the area.
After exploring Trakošćan, enjoy a private transfer to Varaždin (~1 hour). Relax during the ride while soaking in the northern Croatian landscapes.
Explore Varaždin Old Town, including the City Castle, ornate churches, and elegant baroque squares.
Lunch at Stari Kastel or Stari Grad, savoring traditional Croatian flavors with a modern twist.
Afternoon/evening:
Leisurely walk in Park Slobode and visit the artistically remarkable Varaždin Cemetery.
Check in at Hotel Arbia Dorka Heritage Palace (luxury heritage).
Dinner at the hotel or Restoran Vraz, enjoying refined local cuisine in an elegant setting.
Day 4: Private guided discovery in Plitvice Lakes
Plitvice National Park
Morning:
Private transfer from your Varaždin hotel to Plitvice Lakes National Park (~2.5–3 hours), traveling in comfort while enjoying scenic views of northern and central Croatia.
Upon arrival, begin a private guided tour of the park. Your guide will take you along the best routes, revealing hidden viewpoints, stories of the lakes and waterfalls, and fascinating insights into the park’s flora and fauna.
Explore the upper and lower lakes, discovering turquoise waters, cascading waterfalls, and quiet corners perfect for photos and reflection.
Pause for lunch at Restaurant Licka Kuca or enjoy a curated picnic arranged by your guide, surrounded by nature’s beauty.
Afternoon/evening:
Optional stop at Rastoke, a charming village with historic watermills and scenic streams, for a leisurely stroll.
Check in at Hotel Fenomen Plitvice, both offering luxury accommodations near the park.
Evening at leisure—dinner at the hotel or a refined local restaurant, enjoying the serene surroundings and reflecting on the day’s unforgettable sights.
Day 5: Brunch, farewell & departure in Plitvice & Zagreb
Morning:
Enjoy a relaxed morning at your Plitvice hotel (Hotel Jezero or Fenomen Plitvice).
Have a leisurely brunch at the hotel, soaking in the views of the lakes and nature before checking out.
After brunch and checkout, take a private transfer from Plitvice Lakes to Zagreb airport (~2 hours), traveling comfortably while enjoying the scenic Croatian countryside for a seamless finish.
Need to know
Private transfers: All transfers in this itinerary are private, so you can relax, enjoy the scenery, and travel in comfort.
Best time to visit: Late spring through early autumn (March–June and September–October) is ideal, when the weather is warm and places like Plitvice Lakes are at their most magical.
What to wear: Dress in layers so you’re comfortable throughout the day. Bring comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestones, wooden paths, and castle grounds. Light jackets or sweaters are handy for cooler mornings or evenings, and don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen.
Dining & reservations: Many of the restaurants and boutique hotels are popular, so booking ahead—especially for dinner or brunch at Plitvice—is a good idea.
Photography and nature: Plitvice Lakes and Trakošćan Castle are incredibly photogenic. Early mornings or late afternoons give you the best light—and fewer crowds.
Local etiquette: Respect historic sites and local traditions. A friendly greeting goes a long way in small towns like Samobor and Varaždin.
Connectivity: Most hotels and cafés have Wi-Fi, but some natural areas, like trails at Plitvice, may have limited signal—perfect for unplugging and soaking in the scenery.
Currency: The Euro (€) is used throughout Croatia. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s handy to carry a little cash for small purchases or tips.
Health and safety: Croatia is very safe. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen during daytime walks, and be careful near wet trails and waterfalls.
Hidden gems: Take time to wander small streets, peek into local shops, and enjoy unexpected musical or cultural events. Some of the best memories come from these unplanned discoveries!
Travel Advisor
Angela Mrdesa
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