Highlights of Central Croatia with Zagreb Christmas Markets

Depart Dublin for Zagreb. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your centrally located hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax or begin soaking up the festive atmosphere of Croatia’s capital. During the winter season, Zagreb hosts one of Europe’s most charming Christmas Markets, with beautifully decorated squares, twinkling lights, festive music, and traditional food stalls. 

This morning enjoy a guided walking tour of Zagreb’s historic city centre. Discover the charm of the Upper Town, with its colourful rooftops, medieval streets, and lively squares. Visit the unique Museum of Cravat, celebrating Croatia as the birthplace of the modern tie, followed by a visit to the House of Cartoons, showcasing Croatian illustration and animation including a tasting of strukli, Zagreb’s famous traditional dish.

Experience a ride on the world’s shortest public funicular, linking the Upper and Lower Towns. Please note, it will be a one-way ride and operation pending (currently in renovation). 

The afternoon is at leisure to enjoy Zagreb’s Christmas Markets. Browse traditional wooden stalls, sample local seasonal treats, warm up with hot beverages, and enjoy the magical festive atmosphere that fills the city’s main squares.

Today travel north to visit Trakoscan Castle, Croatia’s most famous and picturesque castle, beautifully set beside a lake and surrounded by forested hills. Enjoy a guided tour of the castle’s elegant rooms, offering insight into aristocratic life through the centuries.

Continue to the charming Baroque town of Varazdin, often referred to as “Little Vienna.” During the festive season, Varazdin hosts traditional Christmas markets and decorations, creating a particularly atmospheric setting. Enjoy a guided walking tour followed by free time to explore and soak up the seasonal charm. 

Enjoy a relaxed day at leisure in Zagreb, perfect for exploring the Christmas markets at your own pace. Wander through festive squares, browse handmade gifts, and enjoy seasonal specialities in cosy cafés.

Alternatively, take part in an optional Licitar Heart workshop, where you will learn to decorate Croatia’s traditional symbolic biscuit. Recognised by UNESCO, licitar hearts represent love, friendship, and good fortune — a wonderful opportunity to create a meaningful handmade souvenir and unique Christmas gift. 

Enjoy a free day in Zagreb to continue exploring its Christmas markets, museums, cafés, and festive events.

Alternatively, join an optional full-day excursion to Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia’s most famous natural attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Experience a magical winter landscape of possibly frozen waterfalls, misty lakes, and if lucky snow-dusted forests, offering a truly memorable seasonal experience. 

Please note transfer time for this excursion is approx. 2.5 – 3 hours one way depending on traffic, but there will be comfort stops along the way as needed. 

This morning visit the delightful town of Samobor, known for its pastel-coloured streets, café culture, and relaxed atmosphere. During the winter season, the town is beautifully decorated, with festive stalls and seasonal treats adding to its charm. Enjoy time at leisure before visiting a local wine cellar for a tasting of Bermet, a unique aromatic dessert wine traditionally enjoyed during the colder months.

Return to Zagreb with the afternoon free to enjoy the Christmas markets or relax.

Enjoy your final full day at leisure in Zagreb, making the most of its award-winning Christmas markets. Perhaps visit one of the beautifully decorated squares, enjoy festive concerts, indulge in seasonal treats, or pick up some last-minute gifts and souvenirs.

Today transfer to the airport for your return flight to Dublin, bringing home wonderful memories of Croatia’s castles, festive traditions, and winter magic.