Zagreb is a city that surprises many travelers. Its blend of historic charm, lively markets, and nearby natural wonders makes it a prime spot for exploring with guided tours. What sets Zagreb apart is its combination of city life and access to breathtaking landscapes, such as the iconic Plitvice Lakes or the charming Rastoke village. For example, the From Zagreb: Plitvice & Rastoke Guided Day Trip with Ticket offers a seamless way to see Croatia’s most famous national park without the hassle of planning logistics yourself. This tour gets rave reviews for its expert guides and stunning scenery.
From scenic nature excursions to insightful city walks, Zagreb’s tour options cover a wide range of interests and budgets. Whether you’re after a full-day adventure or a quick city overview, you’ll find something that fits. Below, we’ve curated a list of the best tours in Zagreb, including day trips, cultural walks, and even cross-border adventures to Slovenia.
1. From Zagreb: Plitvice & Rastoke Guided Day Trip with Ticket
At number 1, this full-day trip takes you to the famed Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. For $111 per person, you get not only transportation but also a guided walk through the park’s 16 lakes and waterfalls. The tour includes entry tickets, so you don’t have to worry about long lines or extra costs. You’ll explore the fairytale village of Rastoke, where watermills dating back to the 17th-century line the river. The guide shares stories about Croatia’s culture and history, making this a well-rounded experience. Rated 4.9/5 with over 2,700 reviews, travellers love the combination of natural beauty and expert commentary.
Bottom line: Perfect for nature lovers and those who want a hassle-free, comprehensive day out from Zagreb.
2. Zagreb: Rastoke & Plitvice Lakes Guided Tour with Ticket
Ranking second, this tour offers a comprehensive experience for $96 per person, with a focus on local culture and natural beauty. It includes entry tickets to Plitvice Lakes, and you can choose between a small group or bus group for a more personalized experience. The walk through the park is led by a licensed English-speaking guide who shares insights into the geology and history of the area. The charming waterfalls of Rastoke serve as a picturesque introduction before heading into the park’s stunning landscapes. The tour also offers hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience.
Rated 4.9/5 from over 1,600 reviews, travelers emphasize the value for money and the quality of the guide. It’s ideal for those who want a guided experience with flexibility.
Bottom line: A reliable choice that balances price, comfort, and depth of experience, especially for first-timers.
3. Best of Zagreb with the WW2 Tunnels
At number 3, this private walking tour combines historic sights with local life stories for just $23.98. In about 2.5 hours, you’ll explore the bustling Ban Josip Jelacic Square, visit the Zagreb Cathedral, and walk through the lively Dolac Market. The highlight is touring the WWII tunnels and the funicular ride to Grič Hill. The guide shares insights into Zagreb’s past, from street food to the city’s role during the war. Rated a perfect 5.0/5 from nearly 1,000 reviews, travelers appreciate the personalized attention and the local stories that bring Zagreb’s history to life.
Bottom line: An excellent quick introduction to Zagreb’s city life and wartime history, ideal for history buffs and first-time visitors alike.
4. Plitvice Lakes & Rastoke Day Trip from Zagreb with Entry Ticket
Number 4 on our list is a full-day adventure for $89.92, focusing on nature and scenic landscapes. It includes guided walks through Plitvice Lakes, famous for its 16 interconnected lakes and waterfalls. The trip also visits the historic village of Rastoke, with its charming watermills and waterfalls. This tour offers the option for a small-group experience, which means more personalized comments and better interaction. Travelers rave about the guide’s knowledge and the breathtaking scenery. The tour is ideal for those who want to explore Croatia’s natural wonders without the hassle of organizing transport or tickets.
Bottom line: Great value for anyone eager to see the most iconic Croatian scenery in a day.
5. Zagreb: City and WWII Tunnels Walking Tour
This 2-hour 30-minute private tour costs just $19 and is perfect for those wanting a quick yet in-depth look at Zagreb’s historic core. Exploring both Upper and Lower Towns, the tour stops at key landmarks such as St. Mark’s Square, the Stone Gate, and the underground tunnels from WWII. The guide shares stories about local life, the war, and Zagreb’s urban development. Rated 5.0/5 from nearly 1,100 reviews, travelers love the personalized approach and the insider tips.
Bottom line: An affordable, fast-paced way to get a solid overview of Zagreb’s history and sights.
6. Plitvice Lakes & Rastoke day trip from Zagreb with ticket (guar. dep.)
Ranking sixth, this 10-hour tour at $118.69 offers a stress-free visit to Plitvice Lakes. It features pickup at Zagreb hotels, a guided walk through the park, and a visit to Rastoke. The trip’s small-group format ensures more personal attention. The guide’s knowledge and the park’s stunning waterfalls and lakes are highlights, with reviews praising the professionalism of the guide. The tour is perfect for travelers who prefer comfort and convenience over complex planning.
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers wanting an easy, guided experience of Croatia’s top natural attraction.
7. Zagreb: Communism and Croatian Homeland War Tour
At number 7, for $46, this specialized tour covers Croatia’s communist past and the Homeland War. You’ll visit underground tunnels and shelters, learning about life under Yugoslavia and Croatia’s fight for independence. The guide shares personal stories and historical context that bring the turbulent years of the 20th century to life. The tour appeals to those interested in modern history and the wartime period. Rated 4.9/5 from over 800 reviews, travelers find it informative and thought-provoking.
Bottom line: This tour offers a compelling look at Croatia’s recent history, suited for history enthusiasts and curious travelers.
8. Ljubljana and Bled Lake – small group – day tour from Zagreb
Number 8 is a 10.5-hour small-group tour costing $126.61. It takes you from Zagreb to Ljubljana, Slovenia’s charming capital, and then to the postcard-perfect Lake Bled. The guide shares cultural insights, and you’ll enjoy attractions like the Triple Bridge, Ljubljana Castle, and the Bled Castle. You also have free time to explore and can opt for a Pletna boat ride on Bled Lake. Reviews praise the friendly guide and the beautiful scenery. This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a full-day experience with a personal touch.
Bottom line: A well-rounded way to see two of Slovenia’s top sights without the hassle of organizing transport.
9. Zagreb: City & History Walking Tour & WW2 Tunnels
Rated 4.8/5, this 2.5-hour tour offers an affordable introduction for $18 per person. It covers major city landmarks, the WWII tunnels, and scenic views from Grič Hill. The small-group format makes for an engaging experience with insights into Zagreb’s past and local lore. Reviewers appreciate the balance of history and city highlights.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers short on time who want a quick, insightful overview of Zagreb.
10. From Zagreb: Ljubljana and Lake Bled Tour
This full-day tour for $124 covers both Ljubljana and Bled, offering a comprehensive view of Slovenia’s highlights. It includes city walking tours, a funicular ride to Ljubljana Castle, and a boat trip on Lake Bled. The reviews highlight the excellent guide and the beautiful scenery. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see two countries in one day without the hassle of independent planning.
Bottom line: Great for those with limited time but big on seeing diverse landscapes and cities.
11. Zagreb: Plitvice with Ticket & Rastoke Tour for Max 8 people
Number 11 offers a small-group experience for $105, focusing on intimate exploration of Plitvice Lakes and Rastoke. With a maximum group size of 8, you get personalized attention. The guide’s deep knowledge makes the day both informative and enjoyable. Many reviewers mention how friendly and professional the guide is, making it an excellent choice for solo female travelers or anyone seeking a more intimate experience.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who prefer a smaller, more personalized tour.
12. From Zagreb: Ljubljana and Lake Bled Day Trip by Minivan
Number 12 is a cost-effective way ($111) to combine Ljubljana and Lake Bled in one day. The minivan provides a comfortable ride, and the tour includes city tours, castle visits, and a lake boat ride. The reviews highlight the friendly guide and the scenic drive through Slovenia’s countryside. This trip is ideal for travelers wanting value and flexibility.
Bottom line: A practical option for those wanting to see the highlights of Slovenia without complicated travel arrangements.
13. From Zagreb: Plitvice Lakes Guided Tour
This is a full-day guided tour for $77.93, focusing solely on Plitvice Lakes. The guide makes the 4-hour walk informative, sharing stories about the park’s 16 lakes and waterfalls. Reviewers mention how well-organized and beautiful the experience is, with some noting the pristine nature and serene atmosphere. It’s perfect for travelers who want a focused, in-depth visit to one of Croatia’s most stunning natural sites.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for nature lovers eager to explore the UNESCO-listed park thoroughly.
14. Guided transfer from Zagreb to Split with Plitvice Lakes stop
Number 14 offers a seamless transfer with a highlight stop at Plitvice Lakes, for $166.65. It combines transport, a guided walk through the lakes, and a drop-off in Split. Travelers appreciate the comfortable ride and professional guide, though some note it’s slightly pricey for the service. It’s ideal for travelers who want to combine transportation with sightseeing without the hassle of self-driving.
Bottom line: Practical for those moving between Zagreb and Split who also want a quick visit to the lakes.
15. From Zagreb: Ljubljana with Funicular and Lake Bled
Rounding out the list, this tour for $111 includes Ljubljana’s old town, the hilltop castle (via funicular), and a visit to Lake Bled. Travelers love the easy city walk, castle views, and lake scenery, with many noting the delicious Bled cream cake and optional boat ride. It’s a balanced day trip suitable for those who want a taste of Slovenia’s culture and natural beauty.
Bottom line: A solid choice for a day combining urban charm and alpine landscapes.
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour
When selecting among these tours, consider your budget, interests, and time constraints. If you want to see Croatia’s iconic national parks, Tours #1 and #4 offer comprehensive experiences. Those keen on city history and local culture might prefer Tour #3 or #9. For small-group intimacy and personalized attention, Tours #6 and #11 stand out.
If you’re interested in cross-border adventures, the Ljubljana and Bled tours (#8, #10, #12, #15) give a great taste of Slovenia’s highlights, especially if you want to combine scenic landscapes with city exploration. Remember, booking early is wise, especially in high season, to secure your spot and lock in the best rates.
Final Thoughts
Zagreb offers an impressive array of tour options, from breathtaking natural landscapes to rich historical insights. For a quick city overview, Tours #3 and #9 give a great taste of the local flavor. For those craving nature and scenic beauty, Tours #1, #4, and #6 are hard to beat. If you’re eager to explore beyond Croatia, the Slovenia trips (#8, #10, #12, #15) add a wonderful dimension to your trip.
No matter what you choose, these tours provide a chance to experience Croatia’s and Slovenia’s highlights with ease and confidence. Be sure to compare your interests with the tour details and book early — the best experiences fill up fast.
