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

If you’re planning a quick but comprehensive exploration of Croatia, a 3-day private tour from Zagreb to Dubrovnik offers a fantastic way to cover highlights while enjoying the comfort of private transportation. This particular tour, offered by Click2Shuttle, promises an intimate journey through Croatia’s most beloved sights, plus a foray into neighboring Bosnia & Herzegovina with a stop in Mostar. It’s designed for travelers who appreciate thoughtfully curated experiences, personalized attention, and a mix of natural beauty and historical depth.

What I love about this tour is the seamless blend of scenery and culture—visiting the iconic Plitvice Lakes, exploring Diocletian’s Palace, and wandering the charming streets of Trogir. Plus, the inclusion of Mostar gives a taste of Bosnia’s history, adding an international flavor to your Croatian adventure. The guides are praised for their knowledge—like Tiho, who was noted for making the trip memorable—and the transport is comfortable, with Wi-Fi and bottled water included.

One thing to consider is the price: at over $3,180 for up to 7 people, it’s an investment. But when you factor in the expert guides, private transportation, and the convenience of an all-in-one itinerary, it could be well worth it for those wanting a hassle-free, in-depth experience. Keep in mind, tickets for Plitvice Lakes aren’t included—so budget an extra $40 per person—and meals are on you, giving you flexibility to explore local cuisine at your own pace.

Key points / Takeaways

• Private, personalized experience ensures flexible timing and tailored attention.
• Expert guides and drivers like Tiho and Bozo are highly praised for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Stunning scenery at Plitvice Lakes and throughout the trip, with plenty of photo stops and scenic drives.
• Rich cultural insights into sites like Diocletian’s Palace, Salona, and Trogir, elevating sightseeing beyond just looking at ruins.
• Flexible logistics with hotel pickup and drop-off, even in pedestrian zones, simplifies planning.
• Additional costs include park entrance fees and meals, which are not included in the tour price.

Exploring Croatia’s Highlights in 3 Days

Taking on this tour means you’ll get a taste of Croatia’s diverse attractions, from lush lakes and historic towns to a peek into neighboring Bosnia & Herzegovina. Let’s walk through what you can expect each day, and why it might be the right choice for your travel style.

Day 1: From Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes and Rastoke

The journey begins with a pickup at your Zagreb accommodation, starting around mid-morning. Your driver, who doubles as your guide, will take you through the Croatian hinterland—a landscape filled with rolling mountains, forests, and quaint villages. The drive lasts about two hours, giving you ample time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

A highlight early on is the stop at Rastoke, a tiny village on the Slunj River famous for its waterfalls, old watermills, and fairy-tale charm. You get about an hour here to wander the cobblestone streets and snap photos of cascading waterfalls—it’s a perfect preview of what’s to come at Plitvice. Many reviews praise Rastoke as “a romantic flash to the past,” and it’s an ideal spot for a quick introduction to Croatia’s countryside.

Next, you’ll head to Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The tour includes a roughly 3-hour exploration of the park’s lower and upper lakes, with walks along wooden paths that wind through lush forests and beside shimmering lakes. You’ll also enjoy a ride on an electric boat across the largest lake and, for a change of pace, a scenic train ride through the woods—great options for those who tire of walking.

While the park’s entrance fee ($40 per person) is on you, the guided tour makes the most of your time, highlighting the park’s geology, waterfalls, and crystalline waters. Many travelers find Plitvice mesmerizing, with reviews mentioning “the views were simply stunning,” and appreciating the knowledgeable guide’s insights.

Post-lake exploration, you’ll dine at a local restaurant recommended by your guide, savoring regional specialties like lamb, trout, cheese, or potatoes—dishes from the Lika region that are highly praised.

Finally, the day concludes with a drive to Split, where you’ll settle into your hotel or accommodation, ready for the adventures ahead.

Day 2: From Split to Salona and Trogir

Your second day begins with a guided tour of Split, centered around the sprawling Diocletian’s Palace—a UNESCO World Heritage site that feels more like a living neighborhood than a ruin. Walking through the labyrinth of alleys, courtyards, and historic buildings, you’ll get a sense of how this Roman emperor’s retirement palace has become the heart of modern Split. Many visitors enjoy grabbing a coffee on Riva, the bustling promenade, which offers lively views and people-watching.

Next, a short drive takes you to Salona, an ancient Roman city just outside Split. The site features impressive ruins such as the amphitheater, Roman baths, and sarcophagi—offering a tangible connection to the past, and a highlight for many who appreciate history that’s still tangible today.

From Salona, you’ll relax with a scenic drive to Trogir, a small UNESCO-listed town packed with charming streets, historic churches, and a fortress overlooking the sea. Many reviewers call Trogir “the city of museums,” thanks to its well-preserved architecture and cultural sites. You’ll have about an hour and a half here, enough to wander the narrow streets, enjoy the views, and soak up the atmosphere.

The journey back to Split offers more scenic views, making the most of Croatia’s beautiful coast and countryside.

Day 3: From Split through Mostar to Dubrovnik

The third day is the most international—starting with a private transfer from Split to Dubrovnik, with a memorable stop in Mostar, in neighboring Bosnia & Herzegovina. The drive takes about 2.5 hours, giving you a chance to enjoy the landscape and chat with your driver.

In Mostar, a licensed guide will lead a brief walk through the Old Town, where the iconic Stari Most bridge stands. The tour lasts about an hour, providing insights into the city’s complex history and architecture. Afterward, you’ll have around two hours of free time to explore, shop, or relax in this atmospheric town.

Finally, your journey ends with a 2.5-hour drive to Dubrovnik, where your driver will drop you off at your accommodation—close enough to walk into the old city or, if you’re in a pedestrian zone, at the nearest accessible point.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This private, guided tour appeals most to travelers who want a rundown of Croatia in a short time, without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves. It’s ideal if you appreciate expert guides, like Tiho and Bozo, who can share local insights and make the journey engaging. If you’re interested in UNESCO sites, natural wonders, and a slice of neighboring Bosnia, this trip hits all the marks.

While the price is on the higher side, it includes private transportation, Wi-Fi, bottled water, and guided tours—factors that add comfort and value for those seeking a luxurious yet educational experience. It’s perfect for small groups or families up to 7, looking to maximize their time and reduce stress.

This tour isn’t suited for budget travelers or those who prefer independent exploration with more flexibility over timing. Also, keep in mind that entrance fees and meals are extras, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded, expertly guided experience of Croatia’s most beautiful and historically significant sites, with a comfortable pace and a touch of Bosnia thrown in. The combination of stunning landscapes, fascinating ruins, and charming towns makes it a wonderful choice for those who want to see a lot without the hassle.

If you value knowledgeable guides, scenic drives, and visiting major highlights in just three days, this private tour provides excellent value—especially when compared to trying to piece together these destinations on your own. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a good mix of sightseeing, culture, and comfortable travel.

For an efficient, memorable Croatian adventure with a personal touch, this trip delivers in every detail.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, solo travelers can join and enjoy the same personalized experience, although the price remains the same for one person.

How much are the entrance tickets for Plitvice Lakes?
Tickets cost around $40 per person and need to be purchased online in advance, as they are not included in the tour price.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals are not included. You’ll have time to eat at local restaurants, where you can try regional dishes.

Is hotel pickup and drop-off available?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel or private accommodation, even if it’s in a pedestrian zone. Drop-off is at the nearest accessible point.

How long is the drive from Split to Dubrovnik with a stop in Mostar?
The drive from Split to Mostar takes about 2.5 hours, plus a 1-hour guided walk in Mostar, followed by a 2.5-hour drive to Dubrovnik.

What is the group size?
The tour is designed for groups of up to 7 people, making it intimate but also manageable for a private experience.

This detailed, balanced overview should help you decide if this Croatia tour fits your travel style. With knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and seamless logistics, it’s a strong choice for those wanting a well-rounded taste of Croatia in just three days.