Croatia Food & Wine Discovery

Get to know the Croatian capital city of Zagreb in the best possible way, on a culinary exploration of the city’s cafes, markets and restaurants. Stroll along the historic cobblestone streets and admire the city’s classicist and secessionist facades, green parks and ornate promenades. Satisfy your inner culture vulture with a trip to one of the many museums, galleries and theatres, or simply soak up the atmosphere whilst watching the world go by. Our private guided tour of Zagreb’s popular attractions is complemented by a cooking class activity, where you can learn about traditional cuisine and recreate classic Dalmatian dishes.

Today we venture just outside of the city boundaries to explore the authentic lifestyle of the friendly village people. Visit a charming local town that is home to a small family-run vineyard, and a picturesque little restaurant that serves locally farmed, sourced and produced delicious food and wine. Visit a traditional čardak house and sample the wonderful Škrlet (white) Graševina (white), Sauvignon (white), Pinot (white), Chardonnay and Frankovka (red) wines that are made from indigenous grapes grown in the region. Learn about the history of wine making in Croatia and discover the perfect food pairings to compliment your favourite wines.

Departing Zagreb, we head for one of the oldest cities in Croatia. Opatija is a popular vacation destination for royalty and the rich and famous. Its tourism trade dates to the mid-nineteenth century. Join the elite and take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque 12-km-long Riviera promenade, and relax in a café like a superstar. Your culinary exploration begins with a cooking lesson where you will learn the cooking traditions of the city. Discover the secrets of Istrian pasta, fish filleting and grilling, and learn how to make the famous tasty dish of žgvacet (the local version of gulasch).

Today’s mouth-watering gastronomy adventure begins with a hunt into the dense Motovun forest for some illusive truffles. You will be accompanied by specially trained truffle-sniffing dogs and will learn all about the secrets and tips for hunting out and finding these precious delicacies. Learn to prepare, and taste your bounty afterwards, and take home some souvenir purchases. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to bask on Opatija’s iconic Lungomare promenade, or to mingle with the friendly locals. A visit to one of the popular restaurants gives you an opportunity to sample food with the Istria local fine wine of Malvazija.

This morning we rise early to explore the wonderful UNESCO World Heritage Site of Plitvice Lakes National Park. The natural beauty spot boasts 16 interlinked crystal-clear lakes and endless cascading waterfalls. Wander along the wooden pathways and explore the spectacular scenic landscape and lakes, before departing en route to Zadar. On arrival in the historic city, soak up the culture as you take a walk along the picturesque seaside promenade. Discover the city’s charm and history whilst admiring the landmark archaeological sites and monument attractions. In the evening, enjoy a delicious traditional Croatian dinner experience with accompanying breathtaking sunset views.

Today we head to another jewel of the Adriatic, the wonderous city of Split. Along the way we will visit the Bibich winery, which is famous for producing some of the finest wines in Croatia. You will embark on a wine tasting tour of the winery and learn about its place in the region before continuing on to Sibenik.

Founded over 1,000 years ago, Sibenik is the former seat of King Petar Krešimir and is still referred to as “Krešimir’s town”. Sitting in the shadows of the imperious Gothic-Renaissance cathedral of St James, made from the precious rocks from Korcula and the Brac Islands, the town is a living museum dotted with fortifications and towers.

Venture onwards in Split today and sense the cultural legacy on display. Join our guided tour to the iconic origin of the city. Diocletian’s Palace is situated in the heart of the Old Town and features a maze-like complex of cavernous chambers. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy as you please. Explore the colourful local cafes, bars and restaurants, visit the galleries and museums, and shop for souvenirs. Hike to the top of Marjan Hill for wonderful views of the city. The Old Town’s cobbled streets direct you to the famous palm tree-lined promenade and fabulous vistas.

Klis Fortress is tucked away on a mountain above the city of Split and has served many different purposes for different cultures and peoples. It has also found recent fame as a setting for the hit TV show Game of Thrones. Learn about the traditional Dalmatian way of life on a visit to a nearby ethno-village. Sample the locally made olive oil, cheeses, meats, wines and jams, and purchase some tasty souvenirs. In the UNESCO-listed town of Trogir, explore the preserved Kamerlengo Castle and tower. Just across from Trogir lies Čiovo Island, where the best beaches in Croatia await you.

Our final food and wine destination is the city of Dubrovnik. Along the way, there is time to stop for an oyster tasting experience in the Pelješac Peninsula. You also have an opportunity to sample some of the fine wines that are produced locally in the region. On arrival in Dubrovnik, join our afternoon guided walking tour of the city’s Old Town. Visit the popular landmark attractions and monuments and enjoy a glimpse of some of the iconic locations used in the hit TV show Game of Thrones. End your excursion with wine tasting at the delightful D’Vino wine bar.

This morning, our expert guide will take you on an activity packed half-day tour into the neighboring country of Bosnia, on the Balkan Peninsula. Home to the craggy Dinaric Alp, medieval villages, rivers and lakes Bosnia is also famous for its up and coming wine producing regions.

After breakfast, it’s time for the tour to come to an end. Once you have checked out of your hotel, you will be escorted to the airport via private transfer.