Filter Tours
Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: HRK
- Languages: Croatian, English, German, Italian
- Climate: Continental
- Timezone: Europe/Zagreb
- Population: Approximately 1.2 million people live in Central Croatia.
- Best Time to Visit: best time to visit is late spring to early autumn for pleasant weather.
- Visa Requirements Visitors from EU countries, the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can enter Croatia visa-free for short stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Some nationalities may require a visa, which must be obtained prior to arrival. Croatia also offers e-visa options for certain countries. US, EU, and UK citizens generally do not need a visa for tourism or short business trips.
About Central Croatia
Central Croatia is a captivating region that blends rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes. It is home to the capital city, Zagreb, which offers a dynamic urban experience with its charming old town, museums, galleries, and lively cafés. Beyond the city, visitors can explore medieval castles, quaint villages, and rolling hills dotted with vineyards and orchards. The region’s continental climate provides four distinct seasons, making it attractive year-round. Central Croatia is unique for its combination of cultural heritage and outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and river rafting. Its accessibility from major European hubs and well-developed infrastructure make it an excellent destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. The warm hospitality of locals and the authentic culinary experiences add to the appeal, making Central Croatia a destination worth exploring.
Top Attractions
1. Zagreb Old Town – Historic center with cobbled streets, vibrant markets, and iconic landmarks like St. Mark’s Church. 2. Plitvice Lakes National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its cascading lakes and waterfalls. 3. Trakošćan Castle – A beautifully preserved medieval castle surrounded by a picturesque park and lake. 4. Varaždin – A baroque town known for its architecture, festivals, and charming squares. 5. Medvednica Nature Park – A forested mountain area offering hiking trails and panoramic views over Zagreb.
Popular Activities
Visitors can enjoy hiking and mountain biking in Medvednica Nature Park, exploring the scenic trails and wildlife. Cultural tours in Zagreb and Varaždin offer insights into Croatian history and art. Adventure seekers can go rafting on the Mrežnica River or take part in wine tasting tours in local vineyards. Seasonal festivals, such as the Zagreb Film Festival and Varaždin Baroque Evenings, provide immersive cultural experiences. Additionally, visitors can relax in thermal spas or enjoy culinary workshops to learn traditional Croatian cooking.
Central Croatia Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of Croatia
- Duration Range: Visitors can enjoy hiking and mountain biking in Medvednica Nature Park, exploring the scenic trails and wildlife. Cultural tours in Zagreb and Varaždin offer insights into Croatian history and art. Adventure seekers can go rafting on the Mrežnica River or take part in wine tasting tours in local vineyards. Seasonal festivals, such as the Zagreb Film Festival and Varaždin Baroque Evenings, provide immersive cultural experiences. Additionally, visitors can relax in thermal spas or enjoy culinary workshops to learn traditional Croatian cooking.
- Group Size: Small groups (up to 15 people)
- Difficulty Level: Mixed Difficulty
- Recommended For: The best time to visit is late spring to early autumn for pleasant weather. Pack comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, and a rain jacket. Respect local customs such as greeting with a handshake and punctuality. Croatia is generally safe, but standard precautions apply. Use local currency (HRK) or credit cards; ATMs are widely available. Learning a few basic Croatian phrases is appreciated by locals.
Average Tour Price: $75
Lowest Price Tour: $45
Highest Price Tour: $220
35 Available Tour Excursions in Central Croatia
If you like a combination of adrenaline and nature, then Inspiration Resort is the right place for you! We offer you an unforgettable adventure - guided tours on buggy vehicles in the surroundings and in the very heart of the Plitvice Lakes National Park area. We will be visiting also a former Yugoslavian air base in the Village of Zeljava, former Yugoslav Presidemt Tito's Summer House, old town of Dreznik and visiting the Viewpoints of Plitvice Lakes National Park.
Price: $154.40
Duration: 3 hours
This is a unique opportunity to feel, smell and discover one of the most beautiful rivers in Croatia ho is hidden in the canyon and you can explore her only by kayaking. You'll be able to make amazing memories of this little hidden paradise while jumping, swimming, and pedaling with our guides.
Price: $69.42
Duration: 3 hours
If you like a combination of adrenaline and nature, then Inspiration Resort is the right place for you! We offer you an unforgettable adventure - guided tours on buggy vehicles in the surroundings and in the very heart of the Plitvice Lakes National Park area. We will be visiting also a former Yugoslavian air base in the Village of Zeljava, old town of Dreznik and visiting the Old Water Mill in Plitvica Selo on Korana river. All together with some amazing off road experience through the woods, you will be able to experience the wider area around Plitvice Lakes National Park.
Price: $118.49
Duration: 2 hours
Discover labirints of hiddent paths through Drava forest as part of unique adrenaline off-road jeep driving experience, enjoy in beautiful sunsets on pebble beaches in protected are of Drava river, which is part of Mura - Drava - Danue biosphere reserve, watch animals in their natural habitats and much more.
Price: $59.85
Duration: 3 hours
We are offering unique experience for people looking for adventure. As one of the first touristic agency in Croatia overall, we are offering SUP exploring of Drava river which is part of protected Mura - Drava - Danue biosphere reserve. Discover hidden watter passages, beautiful pebble beaches, protected animal and plant species, all that with our professional guidance. This is one of those life experience which will stay ingrained in you. Don't miss it!
Price: $71.81
Duration: 3 hours
Ogulin is the homeland of fairy tales. As a storyteller and tour guide I am very familiar with the local stories and legends. Ivana Brlić-Mažuranić Croatia's most popular children's writer was born here, and many enjoy my storytelling of her fairy tales and local tales. People also enjoy the natural and cultural sites in the town that inspired her books.
Price: $47.88
Duration: 1 hours
Book private transfer from Plitvice Lakes to Zagreb City or Zagreb Airport You can book these services if you are looking for transportation from Plitvice Lakes to Zagreb. Save up some time and enjoy ride in private comfortable car from Plitvice Lakes to Zagreb city ot Zagreb airport.
Price: $179.54
Duration:
On this e-bike tour you will witness the best viewpoints of the Big waterfall & Lower Lakes of the National Park Plitvice Lakes. You will discover the canyon of Korana river & mystical object 99 or Tito's Villa.
Price: $179.54
Duration: 2 hours
Our tailored journeys are fully adjustable for each passenger’s preferences and needs, from route adjustments to onboard amenities, making your journey truly unique and tailored to your comfort and enjoyment. We are dedicated to provide you with a reliable outstanding service that will make any special occasion truly memorable.
Price: $27.17
Duration: 0-0 hours
Join us for an exciting and fun-filled kayak adventure. Paddle through the rapids and waterfalls of the beautiful Mreznica river. Experience the thrill of jumping off the waterfalls and swimming in the refreshing river. Escape the crowds and enjoy crystal water, emerald colors, and untouched nature.
Price: $59.85
Duration: 4 hours
Explore the abandoned military complex of Zeljava Airbase with a local guide. Discover its strategic role during the Cold War and its connection to the fall of Yugoslavia. Wander through massive underground hangars as your guide shares personal stories and employee anecdotes — revealing how rising tensions and the outbreak of war divided colleagues of different nationalities. This tour offers a unique blend of history and adventure. The tour takes place in all weather conditions because, in the tunnels, we are not affected by rain or high temperatures.
Price: $59.85
Duration: 2 hours
Explore the Plitvice countryside in a small group. Spend an interesting day on a bike cycling through the nature and forests of Rakovica county. Find out why Rakovica is called speleological "El Dorad" on 1h guided tour through the Barac Caves.
Price: $143.63
Duration: 5 hours
Enjoy the upper canyon of Mreznica between Primislje and Trzic, the most beautiful part of the river right in the wilderness.
Price: $59.85
Duration: 3 hours
Perfect casual activity after you saw the National park. It is abandoned military airbase tour with tunnels under the mountain waiting to be explored. Expert outdoor guide with wide knowledge of history and urban exploration will safely take you to the border area and get you through the recent history and facilities. This is unique breathtaking tour.
Price: $71.81
Duration: 2-3 hours
Beyond the main tourist attractions, hidden in a rural area between Rastoke Village and Plitvice Lakes National Park, lies the Natural Monument Mreznica River. This conservation area features a dense forest covering the canyon, a river surrounded by cliffs, and a habitat for brown trout, beavers, turtles, and birds—accessible only by kayak. The source of the Mreznica River is just 12 km upstream from civilization, yet it provides clean, drinkable water. Surrounded by untouched nature, emerald-green waters, gentle rapids, and serene waterfalls, it is the perfect spot to immerse yourself in nature’s beauty.
Price: $65.83
Duration: 3 hours
We’re passing through the most beautiful part of Mrežnica, length of 5 kilometers with abundance of magical places for swimming and recreation. You will pass in total 9 waterfalls and 3 rapids, height from 1m to 9m! The program is suitable for children strating from 6 years of age, depending on water level! Morning tour: START at 10:00h - Hotel Mirjana&Rastoke -Gathering at 9:30h Afternoon tour: START at 15:00h - Hotel Mirjana&Rastoke -Gathering at 14:30h The price includes - Rental of boats and equipment (paddles, neoprene clothing and shoes, barrels, life jackets and helmets) - Guide - Photographs during the journey (gift to the guests) -Transport from our agency in Slunj to the river and back! Personal items to bring: swimsuit, towel, sun lotion!
Price: $52.66
Duration: 4 hours
The Upper Mreznica Canyon is a truly wild and beautiful gem, away from the tourist crowds of Zagreb and Plitvice. The river forms travertine barriers, so that we have 15 waterfalls on just 3km of river. The highest fall is 8m high - you can jump down into it or walk around. The river creates pools of warm water between the falls, which make for perfect refreshment, and for some easy paddling to enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Kayaking is the best way to enjoy this stunning spot of nature, because it combines easy floating down the river with some fun - riding down the waterfalls. Even if you have never done it, believe us, it‘s fantastic and your guide will keep you safe! Because the water is calm between the falls, and we don't have long sections of paddling, this trip is suitable for almost everyone - children from 6 y.o. up to seniors. On the waterfalls, your guide directs each boat individually, to make sure you get down in a fun and safe way.
Price: $64.63
Duration: 3 hours
Discover the enchanting beauty of Plitvice National Park with our local guide service! Our knowledgeable guides are dedicated in providing you with an insightful and immersive experience during your tour. You will wander along the picturesque blue-green, turquoise-colored lakes, exploring halfway wooded boardwalks and pathways that showcase the park's natural wonders. The tour is a combination of walking, a leisurely electric boat ride, and a shuttle bus drive through the lush greenery of the woods. Our guides will ensure that you have a memorable and informative exploration of this stunning natural paradise. To enhance your experience, we also offer the convenience of booking tickets in advance. Participants will pay the additional price of the tickets when they meet the guide, avoiding worries about sold-out tickets during peak seasons. Skip the long queues and enter the park stress-free, enjoying a seamless experience with your guide.
Price: $41.89
Duration: 4-5 hours
1. Choose Your Tour
Browse our curated selection of tours and select your perfect adventure.
2. Check Details
Review tour inclusions, duration, and meeting points carefully.
3. Book Online
Complete your booking securely with instant confirmation.
4. Enjoy Your Experience
Join the tour and create unforgettable memories in Central Croatia.
Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Central Croatian cuisine features hearty dishes influenced by continental European flavors. Signature foods include štrukli (baked dough with cheese), zagorski štrukli, and various meat stews like čobanac. Truffles and freshwater fish are local specialties. Dining customs emphasize fresh, locally sourced ingredients and convivial meals. Noteworthy restaurants include "Didov San" in Zagreb for traditional fare and "Stari Fijaker" offering authentic Croatian dishes in a historic setting.
Getting Around
Central Croatia is accessible by air via Zagreb Airport, with connections to major European cities. The region is well-served by trains and buses linking towns and attractions. Within cities, public transport includes trams and buses. Renting a car is convenient for exploring rural areas and national parks. Taxi services and ride-sharing apps are available in urban centers. Transportation costs are moderate, with affordable public transit and reasonable car rental rates.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit is late spring to early autumn for pleasant weather. Pack comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, and a rain jacket. Respect local customs such as greeting with a handshake and punctuality. Croatia is generally safe, but standard precautions apply. Use local currency (HRK) or credit cards; ATMs are widely available. Learning a few basic Croatian phrases is appreciated by locals.
Culture & Customs
Central Croatia’s culture is rooted in Slavic traditions with strong influences from Central Europe. Social customs include polite greetings, gift-giving on visits, and respect for elders. Key festivals include Zagreb’s Advent Christmas market and Varaždin Baroque Evenings. Visitors should dress modestly when visiting religious sites and avoid loud behavior in public. Hospitality is important, and guests are often offered food or drink as a sign of welcome.
