3 Days: Zagreb – Plitvice Lakes – Split – Mostar – Dubrovnik

This 3-day tour from Zagreb to Dubrovnik offers an action-packed journey through some of Croatia’s most iconic spots, all for $1,050.16 per person. With a rating of 5.0 from 4 reviews, the tour stands out for its personalized experience, including hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, and all entrance fees for Plitvice Lakes National Park. Its private group format ensures a tailored and relaxed pace, ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive taste of Croatia’s highlights without the hassle of self-planning.

This trip is designed for those eager to see natural wonders like the Plitvice Lakes, explore historic cities such as Split and Mostar, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Dalmatian coast. While the itinerary is quite full, the inclusion of private transport, skip-the-line access, and local guides make it a convenient, stress-free way to cover a lot in just three days. The main consideration is the busy schedule, which leaves limited time at some stops, but overall, it offers a well-rounded experience.

Key Points

• Three-day private tour traveling from Zagreb to Dubrovnik, with hotel pickup included
• Visits to Rastoke Village, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Split, Mostar, and Dubrovnik
• All entrance fees for Plitvice Lakes are covered, with skip-the-line access
• Includes transport by air-conditioned minivan and local guides for a personalized experience
• Highlights include waterfalls, historic sites, and scenic coastal views
• Designed for travelers wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free Croatian adventure in a short timeframe

Starting the Journey: From Zagreb to Rastoke Village

The tour begins early at 8:00 am, with hotel pickup and transport in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan. The first stop is Rastoke Village, a charming spot renowned for its waterfall scene and traditional watermills. With 30 minutes allocated, visitors can enjoy the picturesque surroundings and take some photos of the unique landscape. The admission ticket is included, making the visit smooth and straightforward.

This stop sets a scenic tone for the trip, offering a glimpse of Croatia’s rural charm and waterway beauty before heading to the spectacular Plitvice Lakes National Park. The quick visit ensures you get a taste of this famous park without spending too much time, allowing the rest of the day to be filled with more incredible sights.

Exploring the Beauty of Plitvice Lakes National Park

The highlight of the first day is the four-hour exploration of Plitvice Lakes, Croatia’s most renowned national park. The tour includes walking, boat rides, and train rides, providing a variety of ways to see the park’s cascading waterfalls and turquoise lakes. The admission ticket for Plitvice Lakes is included, and the guided visit ensures you don’t miss any of the park’s most photogenic spots.

The park’s landscapes are among the most beautiful in Croatia, with a network of lakes connected by waterfalls and surrounded by lush forests. The guided walk offers insights into the natural features, making this a memorable highlight of the trip. Travelers should prepare for some walking but will appreciate the well-organized setup that allows for a comfortable experience.

Arriving in Split and the Old Town Experience

After exploring Plitvice, the journey continues south to Split, arriving in the late afternoon. The group checks into their accommodation, setting the stage for more discoveries the next day. Split’s Old Town is known for its vibrant atmosphere and historic sights, including the famous Diocletian’s Palace.

The first day’s sightseeing in Split involves a two-hour guided walking tour, during which you’ll learn about the city’s history and see the main landmarks. The tour is well-paced, with skip-the-line access, so you spend less time waiting and more time enjoying the sights.

In the evening, the city’s lively streets invite exploration at your own pace, although dining and extra activities are not included, giving flexibility for personal preferences.

Discovering Split’s Historic Heart

The guided tour of Diocletian’s Palace reveals ancient architecture and stories of the Roman emperor who built it. The guided explanation enriches the experience, helping visitors appreciate the palace’s complex history. The tour covers key areas, including the peristyle, cellars, and cathedral.

The free afternoon in Split provides an opportunity to stroll through the narrow streets, visit local cafes, or relax by the waterfront. This leisure time is not included in the price, but it offers a chance to soak in the city’s vibrant vibe and enjoy some spontaneous exploration.

Day Trip to Mostar and the Old Bridge

On the third day, the tour heads into Bosnia and Herzegovina for a three-hour visit to Mostar. The Old Bridge area is the focal point, famous for its single-arch Ottoman bridge and the panoramic views it offers. The city tour includes insights into Mostar’s turbulent history and cultural diversity.

The admission ticket for the Old Bridge area is included, and the guided walk highlights important sights and stories behind the city’s resilience. The visit provides a deeper understanding of the region’s complex past while allowing time for photos and souvenirs.

Arriving in Dubrovnik and Final Stop

The journey wraps up in Dubrovnik, often called The Pearl of the Adriatic. The evening arrival allows for a relaxed check-in and some free time to wander through the famous Old Town or enjoy a sunset by the sea. The tour concludes with drop-off at your accommodation, leaving you free to explore more at your leisure.

The eight-hour day in Dubrovnik is a gentle finish to a busy itinerary, giving a taste of this stunning city without the need for additional planning.

Logistics and What’s Included

This tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple. Transportation is in an air-conditioned minivan, and local guides ensure an engaging, informative experience. The tour includes the entrance fee for Plitvice Lakes, but meals are not included, so travelers should plan for their own dining.

All bottled water is provided, and the entire private tour is designed exclusively for your group, ensuring a more personalized experience. The skip-the-line access helps keep the day moving smoothly, especially at busy sites like Plitvice and Diocletian’s Palace.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private, three-day tour suits travelers who want an efficient, guided exploration of Croatia’s top sights without the hassle of self-driving or extensive planning. It’s perfect for those who value personalized attention and want to see a mix of natural beauty, historic sites, and regional highlights in a short timeframe.

Because of the busy schedule and walking involved, it may not suit travelers with mobility issues or those seeking more leisurely exploration. The cost reflects the convenience and inclusions, making it a good choice for visitors seeking a comprehensive, guided experience.

The Sum Up: An All-in-One Croatian Highlights Tour

This 3-day private tour from Zagreb to Dubrovnik offers a well-rounded experience covering Croatia’s most scenic and historic locations. The combination of natural wonders at Plitvice Lakes, historic splits and Mostar’s Old Bridge, along with the scenic coastal city of Dubrovnik, provides a rich snapshot of the country’s diversity.

The personalized guide service, skip-the-line tickets, and seamless logistics make this tour a convenient choice for those who want to maximize their time and see Croatia’s highlights in a short period. While the schedule can be tight, the quality of the guided visits and stunning scenery make it a worthwhile option for travelers eager to pack a lot into three days.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned minivan, local and professional guides, skip-the-line tickets for Plitvice Lakes, and all entrance fees for Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, giving flexibility to choose where and what to eat during free times.

How long are the stops at each location?
Stops vary from 30 minutes at Rastoke, four hours at Plitvice Lakes, two hours for the Split walking tour, and three hours in Mostar. The final evening in Dubrovnik allows for relaxed exploration.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
While most travelers can participate, the schedule involves walking and some uneven surfaces, especially at Plitvice Lakes and historic sites. Those with mobility issues should consider this before booking.

How far in advance should I book?
This tour is usually booked about 141 days in advance, indicating a high demand among travelers.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours before the start.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is provided by Zico Tours, known for their private, guided Croatian excursions.

What makes this tour different from self-guided trips?
The private, guided format ensures personalized attention, skip-the-line access, and a curated itinerary that covers popular sites efficiently.

Is there flexibility to customize the itinerary?
As a private tour, there is some room for personalization, but the core stops are fixed as per the itinerary.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The tour starts with hotel pickup, so no worries about finding the meeting location, especially in popular Croatian cities.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and some snacks or additional water are recommended. The tour provides bottled water throughout.

This 3-day Croatian journey balances natural beauty, historic sites, and regional culture, making it a smart choice for travelers eager to see the country’s top highlights efficiently and comfortably.