Croatia is a country brimming with stories from a complex past, woven through its ancient towns, war-torn landscapes, and cultural traditions. For history lovers, the country offers a range of experiences that go beyond its famous coastline. We particularly like exploring abandoned Cold War airbases, tasting regional olive oils and wines, and discovering monastic art and traditions—each tour offering a different window into Croatia’s multifaceted history. Among these, the Zeljava Airbase, for example, stands out for its raw Cold War atmosphere and personal stories of the soldiers who once operated there. You can explore the Zeljava Airbase: History and Adventure Tour for an authentic peek into this secretive military site.
Croatia’s diverse landscapes and turbulent past lend themselves well to specialized historical tours—from underground tunnels to scenic hinterland drives and cultural workshops. Some tours focus on military history, others on culinary traditions, and a few on artistic heritage. Below, we’ve compiled the best options, each offering a unique perspective on Croatian history.
1. Zeljava Airbase: History and Adventure Tour
At number one, the Zeljava Airbase: History and Adventure Tour combines history, exploration, and a bit of adrenaline. For just $59 per person, this tour takes you into the vast, abandoned underground airbase located in Zagreb County—a Cold War relic that was once one of Europe’s largest. The tour begins with a guided walk through massive hangars and tunnels, where your local guide shares stories of espionage, military tension, and the airbase’s role in the Yugoslav wars.
What makes this tour stand out is its immersive nature—personal stories from former employees reveal the tension and camaraderie that defined life inside the tunnels. You’ll explore complete tunnel systems, with strong flashlights included, so you can peer into dark corners and imagine the clandestine operations once conducted there. The experience is suitable for history buffs craving an authentic, hands-on exploration of Cold War secrets. The tour’s high rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 64 reviews speaks to its popularity and quality.
Bottom Line: If you enjoy military history, underground exploration, and personal stories, this is a compelling, reasonably priced tour that makes Croatian history come alive beneath the landscape.
2. Zadar: Scenery, Oil, Wine, Food, History. Croatia in a Day
For around $53, the Zadar: Scenery, Oil, Wine, Food, History. Croatia in a day offers a well-rounded taste of Dalmatia’s cultural and natural riches. This tour departs from Zadar and ventures into the hinterland, showcasing stunning panoramic views of the Kornati Archipelago and rolling hills. It’s perfect if you want a day of scenic beauty paired with authentic local flavors.
Highlights include olive oil and wine tastings—five award-winning olive oils and three Croatian wines are sampled at a family-run olive mill, where you can see olive production up close. The tour also features tasty Dalmatian bites and a visit to an olive grove, where your guide explains the region’s tumultuous history and how it shaped local traditions. Your guide’s insights into Dalmatia’s past, combined with these sensory experiences, make this tour a hit. Reviewers love the combination of spectacular scenery and delicious local produce, calling it a “must-do for food and wine lovers.”
Bottom Line: If you want a balance of scenic beauty, history, and gastronomy, this tour offers an engaging, flavorful day in Croatia’s lush inland.
3. Heritage Tour and Painting Workshop in a Monastery
At number three, the Heritage Tour and Painting Workshop in a Monastery offers a different slice of history—art, spirituality, and craftsmanship. For $71, this two-hour experience starts with a guided tour of a beautifully preserved 17th-century monastery in Dalmatia. You’ll learn about distillation, beekeeping, and monastic life, gaining an insider’s view of the spiritual and practical roles these religious communities played in Croatian history.
What makes this tour special is the ceramic plate painting workshop, where you get to create your own artwork inspired by local motifs. The experience is complemented by authentic Dalmatian delicacies and unlimited local wine, making it a relaxed yet enriching activity. The guide highlights the monastery’s hidden corners and historical significance, adding depth to the visit. While the review score isn’t listed, the combination of culture and hands-on artistry makes it appealing for those interested in art, craftsmanship, and spiritual history.
Bottom Line: If you appreciate artistic activities, religious architecture, and local traditions, this intimate tour offers a meaningful, creative experience rooted in Croatian heritage.
How to Choose the Right Croatian Historical Tour
Choosing between these tours depends on your interests and schedule. If you’re a military history enthusiast, the Zeljava Airbase tour provides an unforgettable underground adventure. For lovers of gastronomy, scenic drives, and regional traditions, the Dalmatian hinterland tour offers excellent value and flavor. Meanwhile, if art, spirituality, and craftwork are your focus, the monastery workshop blends history with creativity.
Consider your budget, as all three tours are reasonably priced, but their focus varies. The Zeljava tour offers a deep dive into Cold War secrets, while the Zadar hinterland tour balances scenery and food, and the monastery experience offers cultural depth with a hands-on twist.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak summer months, to secure your spot in these popular experiences. Think about how much time you have—each tour ranges from a few hours to a full day—and match your choice to your travel style.
Final Thoughts
Croatia offers a wealth of historical tours that cater to different interests. The Zeljava Airbase is perfect for those fascinated by Cold War secrets and underground exploration. The Dalmatian hinterland day trip combines scenic views with local food and wine, ideal for cultural travelers seeking variety. For a quieter, artistic experience, the monastery heritage and painting workshop provides a creative outlet amidst historical surroundings.
Whether you’re after adrenaline, gastronomy, or artistic inspiration, these tours give you a meaningful way to understand Croatia’s layered past. We recommend booking your favorite early—and don’t forget to bring your curiosity and a sense of adventure. Croatia’s history is waiting to be uncovered, one story at a time.