Trip to Croatia

Croatia

by Jamie Hooper

Mar 15 - Mar 19, 2026

2 travelers

luxury budget

Arrival in Zagreb & City Exploration

Sunday, March 15, 2026

Welcome to Croatia! Upon arrival at Zagreb Airport, a private transfer will take you to your luxurious hotel in the city center. After settling in, embark on a guided walking tour to discover Zagreb's historical heart, including the Upper Town, St. Mark's Church, and the charming Dolac Market.

1:00 PMtransport

Private Transfer from Zagreb Airport to Hotel Esplanade

Enjoy a seamless and luxurious transfer from Zagreb Airport (ZAG) to your accommodation, the Hotel Esplanade Zagreb. A professional driver will greet you upon arrival and ensure a comfortable journey in a high-end vehicle.

Zagreb Airport (ZAG)

30 min

$100.00

Confirm pick-up location inside the terminal with transfer company.

Action Items

Pre-book private airport transfer (~$100)

Provide flight details to transfer service

2:00 PMaccommodation

Check in at Hotel Esplanade Zagreb

Experience the grandeur of Hotel Esplanade Zagreb, a landmark hotel known for its art deco architecture and impeccable service. Take time to settle in and enjoy the hotel's amenities.

Hotel Esplanade Zagreb, Mihanovićeva ul. 1, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia

60 min

$300.00

Consider booking a room with a city view for an enhanced experience.

Action Items

Book accommodation at Hotel Esplanade Zagreb (~$300/night)

Confirm reservation and any special requests

3:30 PMsightseeing

Guided Walking Tour of Zagreb's Upper Town

Explore the historic Upper Town with a knowledgeable local guide. Visit iconic landmarks such as St. Mark's Church with its colorful tiled roof, the Stone Gate, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the Strossmayer Promenade.

Meeting point: Ban Jelačić Square, Zagreb

120 min

$150.00

Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets.

Action Items

Book private guided walking tour (~$150)

Confirm meeting point with tour operator

7:30 PMfood

Dinner at Zinfandel's Restaurant

Indulge in a fine dining experience at Zinfandel's Restaurant, located within Hotel Esplanade. Savor exquisite Croatian cuisine with a modern twist in an elegant setting.

Zinfandel's Restaurant, Hotel Esplanade Zagreb

120 min

$150.00

Consider the tasting menu for a comprehensive culinary experience.

Action Items

Make dinner reservation at Zinfandel's Restaurant

Specify any dietary restrictions when booking

Highlights

Private Transfer from Zagreb Airport to Hotel EsplanadeCheck in at Hotel Esplanade ZagrebGuided Walking Tour of Zagreb's Upper TownDinner at Zinfandel's Restaurant

Zagreb's Art Scene & Culinary Delights

Monday, March 16, 2026

Immerse yourself in Zagreb's vibrant art scene with visits to renowned museums and galleries. Afterwards, explore the bustling Dolac Market for local delicacies and enjoy a cooking class focused on traditional Croatian dishes.

10:00 AMsightseeing

Museum of Contemporary Art

Explore modern and contemporary art at the Museum of Contemporary Art. Discover works by Croatian and international artists across various media.

Museum of Contemporary Art, Avenija Dubrovnik 17, 10000, Zagreb

120 min

$20.00

Consider taking a guided tour for a deeper understanding of the artworks.

Action Items

Buy skip-the-line tickets online (~$20/person)

Check for temporary exhibitions of interest

1:00 PMfood

Lunch at Dolac Market

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Dolac Market, Zagreb's central farmers market. Sample local cheeses, cured meats, and pastries for a taste of authentic Croatian flavors.

Dolac Market, Trg bana Josipa Jelačića, Zagreb

60 min

$30.00

Arrive early for the freshest produce and a less crowded experience.

Action Items

Prepare cash for purchases (many vendors don't accept cards)

Research seasonal specialties to look for

3:00 PMactivity

Croatian Cooking Class

Learn to prepare traditional Croatian dishes in a hands-on cooking class. Discover the secrets of local cuisine and enjoy the fruits of your labor with a delicious meal.

Kulen Travel - Culinary Experiences, Petretićev trg 1, Zagreb

180 min

$100.00

Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes.

Action Items

Book cooking class in advance (~$100/person)

Inform instructor of any dietary restrictions

7:30 PMfood

Dinner at Dubravkin Put

Enjoy dinner at Dubravkin Put, known for its innovative cuisine and stunning views of Zagreb. The restaurant offers a modern take on traditional Croatian dishes.

Dubravkin Put 2, Zagreb

120 min

$200.00

Consider arriving early to enjoy a pre-dinner drink at the bar.

Action Items

Make dinner reservation at Dubravkin Put

Request a table with a view when booking

Highlights

Museum of Contemporary ArtLunch at Dolac MarketCroatian Cooking ClassDinner at Dubravkin Put

Coastal Charm of Split

Tuesday, March 17, 2026

Take a private car to Split, the vibrant coastal city. After checking into your luxurious hotel, explore Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and stroll along the Riva promenade, soaking in the Mediterranean atmosphere.

9:00 AMtransport

Private Transfer from Zagreb to Split

Enjoy a scenic and comfortable private transfer from Zagreb to Split. Relax and enjoy the Croatian countryside as your professional driver takes you to your destination.

Hotel Esplanade Zagreb

240 min

$400.00

Bring snacks and drinks for the journey.

Action Items

Book private transfer from Zagreb to Split (~$400)

Confirm pick-up time and location

1:00 PMaccommodation

Check in at Hotel Park Split

Experience luxury and elegance at Hotel Park Split, a historic hotel located near Bačvice beach. Settle in and enjoy the hotel's amenities.

Hotel Park Split, Hatzeov perivoj 3, 21000, Split, Croatia

60 min

$350.00

Consider booking a room with a sea view for an enhanced experience.

Action Items

Book accommodation at Hotel Park Split (~$350/night)

Confirm reservation and any special requests

2:30 PMsightseeing

Guided Tour of Diocletian's Palace

Explore the ancient Diocletian's Palace with a knowledgeable local guide. Discover the palace's history, architecture, and hidden corners.

Diocletian's Palace, Split

120 min

$150.00

Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven stone surfaces.

Action Items

Book private guided tour of Diocletian's Palace (~$150)

Confirm meeting point with tour operator

7:30 PMfood

Dinner at ZOI

Dine at ZOI, a restaurant renowned for its modern interpretation of Dalmatian cuisine and its stunning location overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Enjoy fresh seafood and local ingredients in a sophisticated atmosphere.

Obala kneza Branimira 19, Split

120 min

$200.00

Allow ample time to find parking or consider taking a taxi.

Action Items

Make dinner reservation at ZOI, request a table with a sea view

Check dress code requirements

Highlights

Private Transfer from Zagreb to SplitCheck in at Hotel Park SplitGuided Tour of Diocletian's PalaceDinner at ZOI

Island Getaway to Hvar

Wednesday, March 18, 2026

Embark on a private boat trip to Hvar, one of Croatia's most glamorous islands. Explore Hvar Town, visit the Spanish Fortress for panoramic views, and enjoy a leisurely afternoon at a beach club.

9:00 AMtransport

Private Boat Transfer to Hvar

Enjoy a luxurious private boat transfer from Split to Hvar. Relax on board and enjoy the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.

Split Harbor

60 min

$600.00

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.

Action Items

Book private boat transfer from Split to Hvar (~$600)

Confirm pick-up time and location at Split harbor

10:30 AMsightseeing

Explore Hvar Town

Wander through the charming streets of Hvar Town, admiring the Venetian architecture and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Visit St. Stephen's Square, the main square, and the Hvar Cathedral.

Hvar Town, Hvar Island

120 min

Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets.

Action Items

Check opening hours for specific attractions

Purchase Hvar lavender souvenirs

1:00 PMfood

Lunch at Gariful Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful lunch at Gariful, a restaurant known for its fresh seafood and stunning views of the Hvar harbor. Indulge in local specialties while enjoying the sea breeze.

Gariful Restaurant, Riva bb, Hvar

90 min

$150.00

Try the grilled fish or seafood risotto.

Action Items

Make lunch reservation at Gariful

Request a table with a harbor view when booking

3:00 PMsightseeing

Spanish Fortress (Fortica)

Hike up to the Spanish Fortress (Fortica) for panoramic views of Hvar Town, the Pakleni Islands, and the surrounding coastline. Explore the fortress's history and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.

Spanish Fortress, Hvar

120 min

$15.00

Bring water and sunscreen for the hike.

Action Items

Buy entrance tickets to the Spanish Fortress (~$15/person)

Wear sturdy shoes for the uphill walk

7:00 PMtransport

Private Boat Transfer back to Split

Return to Split via private boat transfer.

Hvar Harbor

60 min

$600.00

Check the weather forecast for any potential sea conditions.

Action Items

Confirm departure time and location at Hvar harbor

Reconfirm private boat transfer back to Split (~$600)

8:30 PMfood

Dinner at Makarun

Dine at Makarun, famous for its homemade pasta dishes. Enjoy fresh ingredients, great service and be sure to try the local Makarun dessert, a Hvar specialty.

Ul. Vicka Andrića 7, 21000, Split

120 min

$150.00

Try the traditional Makarun dessert.

Action Items

Reserve dinner at Makarun

Ask to be seated at the terrace

Highlights

Private Boat Transfer to HvarExplore Hvar TownLunch at Gariful RestaurantSpanish Fortress (Fortica)Private Boat Transfer back to Split

Departure

Thursday, March 19, 2026

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before a private transfer takes you to Split Airport for your departure back to New York.

10:00 AMfood

Breakfast at Hotel Park Split

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Hotel Park Split, savoring local and international delicacies in a luxurious setting.

Hotel Park Split

60 min

Try the local pastries and fresh fruit.

Action Items

Confirm breakfast is included in hotel booking

Review breakfast menu for available options

11:30 AMtransport

Private Transfer to Split Airport

Enjoy a seamless and comfortable private transfer from Hotel Park Split to Split Airport (SPU).

Hotel Park Split

30 min

$75.00

Allow ample time for potential traffic delays.

Action Items

Book private transfer to Split Airport (~$75)

Confirm pick-up time and location with transfer service

12:00 PMtransport

Departure from Split Airport (SPU)

Depart from Split Airport (SPU) back to New York.

Split Airport (SPU)

60 min

Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight.

Action Items

Confirm flight details and check-in online

Arrange for luggage assistance if needed

Highlights

Breakfast at Hotel Park SplitPrivate Transfer to Split AirportDeparture from Split Airport (SPU)