3 Day Private Tour: Zagreb-Plitvice-Split-Mostar-Dubrovnik

If you’re dreaming of ticking off Croatia’s must-see spots in a quick, well-organized trip, this 3 Day Private Tour: Zagreb-Plitvice-Split-Mostar-Dubrovnik might catch your eye. While we haven’t experienced it firsthand, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it offers a smooth balance of highlights, culture, and scenery. It’s designed for travelers who want to maximize their time without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines iconic sights like Plitvice Lakes and Diocletian’s Palace with the opportunity to explore unique towns such as Trogir and Mostar. Plus, the guides seem genuinely knowledgeable, which can turn a standard sightseeing day into a more engaging experience. One thing to consider is that, since it’s a fairly packed itinerary, you’ll want to be ready for some early mornings and a lot of walking.

If you’re comfortable with organized tours and value expert guidance to help navigate busy sites and local history, this experience could be just right. It’s especially suited for travelers eager to see Croatia’s top spots but who prefer to skip the hassle of car rentals and unknown transport logistics.

Key Points

• Efficient itinerary that hits major Croatian highlights in just 3 days.
• Expert guides and drivers who make navigating the busy sites easier.
• Comfortable transport with air-conditioned vehicles and WiFi in Croatia.
• Inclusion of UNESCO sites like Plitvice Lakes and Trogir’s old town adds cultural value.
• Visiting Mostar introduces a charming Bosnian town, enhancing the experience.
• Cost reflects a comprehensive experience, with all logistics handled, but tickets for Plitvice Lakes are purchased separately.

The 3-Day Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes and Split

The journey kicks off with a pickup from your Zagreb accommodation, which is a nice way to start. From there, you head toward Rastoke, a delightful stop at the edge of Slunj, often called the “gateway to Plitvice Lakes.” It’s a charming, romantic glimpse into the past with picturesque waterfalls and old mills — a perfect warm-up before the main event. This stop is free and offers a quick, scenic break.

Next, you’re off to Plitvice Lakes National Park, a highlight for many travelers. This UNESCO-listed wonder is the oldest national park in Southeast Europe and is famous for its terraced lakes and waterfalls. You’ll spend about 3 hours here, walking along well-maintained paths that reveal the park’s stunning tiers. Keep in mind, tickets are not included, and you’ll need to buy them online ahead of time for your preferred entrance and time slot.

After enjoying the park, it’s time to leave the crowds behind and head toward Split, where a local guide will show you Diocletian’s Palace and the Old Town. We loved the way guides bring history alive with stories and context, making the ancient ruins more relatable and interesting. You’ll have about 1.5 hours in Split, enough to stroll around and perhaps enjoy a coffee on the lively Riva promenade.

Day 2: Split to Trogir and Salona

Morning starts with a guided tour of Split’s Diocletian’s Palace, an impressive Roman complex still buzzing with activity and local life. The guide’s insights help turn this sprawling ancient site into a story you can picture living centuries ago.

Then, it’s a short drive to Ancient Salona, an archaeological site with ruins of Roman baths, theaters, and sarcophagi. The guide here makes sure you see the most interesting parts in about 45 minutes. It’s a real treat if you’re into history and archaeology, offering a window into Roman life outside of Italy.

From Salona, the tour heads to Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a charming old town full of narrow streets, beautiful squares, and historic buildings. The hour and a half here allow for a relaxed exploration, and the guide’s local knowledge helps you uncover the best spots for photos and brief history snippets.

Day 3: Mostar and Dubrovnik

On the final day, the journey is longer, but your guide makes it smooth. The first stop is Mostar, in neighboring Bosnia & Herzegovina, famous for its iconic bridge — the Stari Most. The guided walk through Mostar Old Town is about an hour, during which you’ll see the bridge, the bazaar, and learn about the town’s complex history. You then have about 2 hours of free time to soak in the atmosphere or grab a snack.

Finally, you’ll head to Dubrovnik, the crown jewel of Croatia’s coast. The tour wraps up with your driver dropping you at your accommodation in Dubrovnik or nearby, depending on your location.

What Travelers Love About This Tour

Authentic guides and drivers seem to be a highlight, according to reviewers. One noted, “Tiho’s professionalism made the trip unforgettable,” while another described Bozo as “very patient and full of information,” adding that their recommendations for restaurants made the experience even better.

The scenery is stunning, from the waterfalls at Plitvice to the historic towns of Trogir and the dramatic views in Mostar. Many reviewers appreciated how well the tour balanced sightseeing with enough free time to explore on their own.

Logistics are handled smoothly — your transportation is air-conditioned, WiFi is available in Croatia, and the tour takes care of various entrance fees (except Plitvice Lakes tickets). This can save a lot of hassle, especially if you’re unfamiliar with booking tickets or navigating local transport.

What Could Be Improved or Considered

The itinerary is pretty full, which means early mornings and a lot of walking. It may not suit those who prefer a more relaxed pace or want more time in each location. Also, the cost ($3,281.74 for a group of up to 7) is on the higher side, but it includes guides, transport, and some entry fees — so, if you value convenience and expert insights, it might be worth it.

Remember, tickets for Plitvice Lakes are purchased separately. Planning ahead for that can make the day run more smoothly, especially during busy seasons.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This trip is ideal for travelers who want to see Croatia’s main sights without the stress of organizing every detail. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with a packed schedule and enjoy guided experiences with knowledgeable hosts. It also suits those interested in a mix of natural beauty, ancient history, and cultural towns, with a touch of Bosnia and Herzegovina thrown in for good measure.

It’s great for small groups or couples who like the idea of a private, more intimate experience, rather than a large bus tour. If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to cover a lot of ground and get a real sense of each place, this tour could be just right.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, your private, air-conditioned vehicle is included for all transfers, making the logistics much easier.

Are guides included at each stop?
Yes, you’ll have professional guides for Plitvice Lakes, Split, Salona, Trogir, and Mostar, ensuring you get expert insights along the way.

Do I need to buy tickets for Plitvice Lakes separately?
Yes, tickets are not included and should be purchased online in advance for the entrance slot that fits your schedule.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss preferences with your guide or driver, but the itinerary is quite packed, so changes might be limited.

What is the group size?
Up to 7 people, which keeps things intimate and flexible.

How long is each driving stretch?
The tour involves several drives: Zagreb to Plitvice, Plitvice to Split, Split to Mostar, and Mostar to Dubrovnik. The longest transfer is from Mostar to Dubrovnik, but your driver makes it comfortable.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s not specifically tailored for children, but the stops are interesting and scenic, making it doable for families with older kids who can handle the schedule.

What should I pack?
Comfortable shoes for walking, a camera, and some snacks or water for longer drives. Remember your tickets for Plitvice Lakes when booking!

Will I have free time during the stops?
Yes, especially in Trogir and Mostar, you’ll get a couple of hours to explore at your own pace.

Is this tour available year-round?
Yes, the tour operates from January through September 2026, with no specified seasonal restrictions, but check seasonal weather and opening hours for specific sites.

This private tour offers a comprehensive and manageable way to explore Croatia’s iconic spots while enjoying the comfort of guided, personalized service. If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to cover a lot of ground with expert insights, it’s definitely worth considering.