Zagreb might not be as flashy as Dubrovnik or as well-known as Split, but it’s a fantastic hub for 3-day tours that combine Croatia’s most iconic sights with some lesser-known treasures. Its central location makes it easy to visit Plitvice Lakes National Park, explore historic Split’s Diocletian’s Palace, and even cross borders to Mostar or Ljubljana. We particularly appreciate how these tours emphasize personalized experiences—most are private or small-group adventures, ensuring you get a deeper, more authentic feel for each destination. Plus, they include practical touches like hotel pickups and skip-the-line entry, which save you time and hassle.
Many of these tours give you a taste of Croatia’s natural beauty, history, and culture—all packed into a compact 3-day window. From walking along ancient city walls and wandering waterfalls to tasting regional dishes and cruising among lakes, these trips are designed to maximize your short stay. If you’re after a well-rounded experience, you’ll find options here that suit different interests and budgets.
Below, we’ve selected the top three 3-day tours in Zagreb. Each offers its own unique spin on seeing Croatia’s highlights, whether you want a comprehensive multi-country adventure or a more personalized private trip. Read on to discover which one fits your travel style.
1. 3 Days: Zagreb – Plitvice Lakes – Split – Mostar – Dubrovnik
This comprehensive 3-day tour covers some of Croatia’s most famous sights along with a quick peek into Bosnia & Herzegovina. Starting in Zagreb, you’ll visit the charming Rastoke Village, often called the “Small Waterfall Town,” before heading to Plitvice Lakes National Park, where you’ll walk along limestone terraced lakes and waterfalls, plus enjoy boat and train rides—an absolute must-see in Croatia. The tour then moves to Split, with a guided walk through Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and some free time to soak up the lively atmosphere of the Old Town.
On the third day, the journey takes you to Mostar, famed for its iconic Old Bridge, where you’ll explore the town’s Ottoman heritage. Finally, the trip ends in Dubrovnik, giving you a taste of Croatia’s “Pearl of the Adriatic.” The tour is private, with hotel pickup and drop-off, making it ideal for travelers who want a hassle-free, all-inclusive experience.
What makes this tour stand out is the seamless combination of natural wonders and historic sites, plus the exclusive private setting. Many reviews praise the guides as knowledgeable and humorous, with one noting, “Our guide was wonderful about lining up tours and great photo spots.” With a price of about $1,050 per person, it’s a solid choice for travelers seeking a deep dive into Croatia’s highlights in just three days.
Bottom Line: If you want a well-rounded, hassle-free way to see Croatia and neighboring Bosnia, this tour offers great value with a personalized touch.
2. 3 Day Private Tour: Zagreb-Plitvice-Split-Mostar-Dubrovnik
For travelers who prefer ultimate flexibility and a more intimate experience, this private tour is a top contender. Starting from Zagreb, the tour takes you to Plitvice Lakes, where you can admire the 16 interconnected lakes and cascading waterfalls—an unforgettable scene. The itinerary then continues to Split, where a licensed guide introduces you to Diocletian’s Palace. The trip also includes stops at Trogir and Ancient Salona, adding layers of history and architecture.
One of the biggest advantages here is the personalized itinerary, tailored to your pace and interests. The private drivers and guides ensure you avoid crowds and get detailed insights. The reviews highlight how well-organized and personable the experience is, with one traveler mentioning that the driver was “very knowledgeable and personable.”
The total price for up to seven people is approximately $3,280, which might seem steep but offers excellent value for a group seeking exclusivity and total control over their schedule. It’s perfect for families or small groups wanting a luxury experience without the rush of larger tours.
Bottom Line: If you’re traveling in a group and want total control over your itinerary, this private tour offers an exceptional, flexible way to explore Croatia and Bosnia.
3. 3 Days in Zagreb: Plitvice Lakes, Slovenia & Zagreb BIG Tour
Looking for a wider regional adventure? This private tour adds Slovenia’s highlights to the Croatian experience. Starting in Zagreb, you’ll explore the city’s main attractions like Ban Jelačić Square and the Cathedral, then head to Plitvice Lakes, marveling at the 16 lakes on a boat and train ride—an experience especially popular among photographers. The last day offers a trip into Slovenia, visiting Lake Bled with its medieval castle perched on a cliff, and the capital Ljubljana’s charming Old Town.
This tour is perfect for those who want a comprehensive regional taste without sacrificing comfort or flexibility. The skip-the-line access and private transportation mean you won’t waste precious time waiting in lines or navigating public transit. The reviews point out how the combination of nature and city highlights kept the trip engaging and manageable.
At about $722 per person, it’s more budget-friendly than the private Croatia-only options, especially for travelers eager to include nearby countries. It’s ideal for those interested in mixing natural beauty with cultural exploration.
Bottom Line: If you want to see multiple countries in a short trip, this tour offers a perfect blend of Croatia and Slovenia with personalized attention.
How to Choose Your Perfect 3-Day Tour
Choosing between these options depends on your priorities. If you’re after a comprehensive Croatian itinerary with Bosnia and Dubrovnik, Tour #1 is your best pick. For a luxury, private experience tailored to your group’s pace, Tour #2 shines. If you’re curious about Slovenia and want a broader regional look, the BIG Tour is hard to beat.
Think about your budget, interest in natural scenery vs. cultural sites, and whether you prefer a guided group experience or private custom tour. All tours include hotel pickup, but if you’re traveling solo or in a small group, the private options may provide more flexibility.
Book early, especially in the summer months, as these tours fill quickly. Confirm what’s included—some tours include admission tickets to parks and sites, while others don’t—so you can budget accordingly.
Final thoughts
From the multi-country exploration of Tour #3 to the comprehensive Croatian highlights in Tour #1 and the luxury private option in Tour #2, Zagreb offers fantastic starting points for memorable 3-day adventures. If you’re limited on time but want to see the best of Croatia and neighboring countries, these tours will serve you well.
For most travelers, a balance of value, comfort, and depth points to Tours #1 and #3 as excellent choices. If you prefer a private, tailor-made experience, then Tour #2 is the way to go. Whichever you pick, early booking is advised to secure your preferred dates. Happy travels!