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Christmas in Croatia

8 Days / 7 Nights

Zagreb, Split, Dubrovnik

from$2,500 per person

Travel and LeisureFodorsUSA TodayNew York TimesNational GeographicWashington PostVogue

Experience the very best of Croatia's Christmas Markets on this week-long tour. It's well outside the tourist season so you'll be able to enjoy Croatia like a local. The Croatians love Christmas time, a chance to relax after the busy season and enjoy the company of their family, as well as tasting the traditional seasonal food and drinks. All of our tours are custom, and this is just a sample meant to give an idea for what our trips are like, and the opportunities our destinations provide.

One of our team members in the region will be available to you leading up to and during your trip to answer any questions and arrange local services. You will receive access to your Guest Page, with its information on the best these destinations have to offer, including things to see and do, and other inside tips from restaurant recommendations to tipping advice. Upon arrival, we will provide you with a local SIM that you can use to reach your local JayWay contact (who you will meet in person) throughout your trip. In all of our destinations, we offer a variety of memorable 3-5 star accommodation options, including boutique hotels, charming B&Bs, and spacious apartments. With our firsthand experience, we can ensure they are all clean, comfortable, and centrally located, with local ambience.

Route for Zagreb, Split, Dubrovnik tour

3 Nights in Zagreb

3 Nights in Zagreb

4 days in Zagreb
4 days in Zagreb

3 Nights in Zagreb

Zagreb is a city where different worlds have long come together. Situated at the intersection of ancient trade routes between the Adriatic and Central Europe, it is a cosmopolitan place with various cultural influences evident in the cuisine and architecture at home in any Austro-Hungarian city. You’ll love exploring the open-air markets, impressive buildings, peaceful parks, and many delicious restaurants. Just strolling through the unique combination of medieval towers, 19th century palaces, ancient churches, and market squares is a pleasure, but there’s much more to do here. After exploring all that the city has to offer with a local guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your time. You could also take a guided bike tour around the city, to get a little exercise as you experience the city. But you’ll also want to explore some of the region surrounding Zagreb. As a longer day trip, you could see the delightful Trakoscan, a neo-Gothic castle sitting on a hilltop, surrounded by a romantic English style park with exotic trees and an artificial lake. While you’re there you can also stop in Varazdin to appreciate its ornate baroque architecture.

Zagreb is a city where different worlds have long come together. Situated at the intersection of ancient trade routes between the Adriatic and Central Europe, it is a cosmopolitan place with various cultural influences evident in the cuisine and architecture at home in any Austro-Hungarian city. You’ll love exploring the open-air markets, impressive buildings, peaceful parks, and many delicious restaurants. Just strolling through the unique combination of medieval towers, 19th century palaces, ancient churches, and market squares is a pleasure, but there’s much more to do here. After exploring all that the city has to offer with a local guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your time. You could also take a guided bike tour around the city, to get a little exercise as you experience the city. But you’ll also want to explore some of the region surrounding Zagreb. As a longer day trip, you could see the delightful Trakoscan, a neo-Gothic castle sitting on a hilltop, surrounded by a romantic English style park with exotic trees and an artificial lake. While you’re there you can also stop in Varazdin to appreciate its ornate baroque architecture.

Day 1

Day 1 - Arrival in Zagreb

We'll arrange for a driver to meet you at Zagreb's airport and take you to your centrally located accommodation. Duration of the drive is about 30 minutes.

Our representative will then meet with you to answer any questions you have and to get you settled for the rest of your trip.

Wine Tasting in a Wine Cellar Private Experience

Take it Easy

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

Trade your accommodations for fresh air in Zagreb, the greenest city in Croatia. Strolling through elegant parks and enjoying shaded benches is a perfect way to walk off your jet lag. For those who need a bit more than just a walk, cafes are a great place to enjoy the city like a local, soaking in the pulse of the city instead of rushing. Zagreb's food scene has been growing rapidly, providing many great choices: choose local, traditional, modern, or even selections from the growing street food scene. If you'd like a brief, structured introduction to Zagreb and especially to Croatia's wine, a one-hour wine tasting at a popular local wine cellar can be arranged. For your first time in the capital of a country increasingly known for its wines, this is a perfect opportunity to indulge in a glass of local goodness in one of Zagreb’s many wine venues!


Activity Level : Easy
Duration : 1 hour

Day 2

Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Zagreb

Zagreb Private Walking Tour

Zagreb Private Walking Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

Zagreb City Private Walking Tour explores the most vibrant city in Croatia. In spite of the rapid economic development of the last few decades, Zagreb has retained its charm and a relaxed feeling that makes it a genuinely human city. Your guide will show you around the local points of interest, including the Upper Town, Kaptol, St. Mark’s Church, the Parliament, Zagreb Cathedral, Dolac Market, and the Stone Gate, completing the tour with a funicular ride.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 2 hours

Europe's Best Christmas Market

Suggestion to explore on your own

Voted as one of Europe's best Christmas markets for the last few years in a popular public poll, Zagreb goes all out to wow locals and vacationers. The city's main market takes place in Ban Jelacic Square, the city’s main plaza. Next to the old town’s entrance, this square is for pedestrians but connects to most tram lines (including the Christmas Tram). However, every square in the center has its own specialty. King Tomislav Square, in front of the Art Pavilion, turns into a giant ice skating rink surrounded by lights. One of our favorites is Fuliranje at Strossmayer Square—a beloved destination for all true gourmets and music connoisseurs, where you will experience a fantastic vibe and positive energy. You'll find live music, wine, food, and the city’s best vista. Be sure to visit at night when the city is all lit up!

Europe's Best Christmas Market

Day 3

Day 3 - Your Second Full Day in Zagreb

Unique Museums

Suggestion to explore on your own

Explore numerous museums in Zagreb, each offering a unique experience. Highlights include the Museum of Broken Relationships, the currently closed Arts and Crafts Museum, the Zagreb 80s Museum, the Museum of Illusions, and more. The Museum of Broken Relationships originated as a traveling exhibition centered on unsuccessful relationships, highlighting the journey of overcoming emotional pain through creation and rebirth. The Zagreb 80s Museum provides a vivid reconstruction of everyday life in former Yugoslavia, seamlessly merging past and future, way of life and heritage, and memories and emotions in an interactive presentation. Meanwhile, at the Museum of Illusions, immerse yourself in a captivating world that challenges your senses and brings immense delight. It's an initially confusing but ultimately educational and enjoyable experience for all. Choose your favorite!

Unique Museums
Ljubljana and Bled Private Day Trip

Ljubljana and Bled Private Day Trip

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

Lake Bled is known for its harmonious mix of beautiful nature, rich history, and genuine hospitality. We'll take you around the lake, to the only Slovenian island (in the middle of the lake) and to the medieval castle perched high on a cliff above the lake. Afterwards, the tour continues to Ljubljana, one of Europe's best-hidden gems.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 10-12 hours

Day 4

Day 4 - Traveling to Split by Private Car

A very full day is ahead of you so your private driver guide will pick you up from your accommodation in the morning. En route to Split, you'll stop for 3-4 hours to explore Plitvice Lakes National Park. Your driver will act as your guide in the park, taking you on a lovely hike. Duration of the journey, stop included, is about 9 hours.

Split by Private Transfer with a Stop in Plitvice
We also offer the following excursions in Zagreb

Ljubljana and Bled Small Group Day Trip
Moderate10 hours and 30 minutes
Ljubljana, Bled & Bohinj Private Day Trip
Light10-12 hours
Medvedgrad Fortress Private Hiking Tour
Strenuous7 hours
Mirogoj Cemetery Park & Medvedgrad Fortress Private Tour
Light3 hours

2 Nights in Split

2 Nights in Split

3 days in Split
3 days in Split

2 Nights in Split

The Roman Emperor Diocletian made Split his home in the 4th Century AD, building a vast palace complex on the waterfront that stands to this day. In fact several of the accommodation options we offer in Split are nestled inside its ancient walls. These days there is an embankment in front of Diocletian's palace but the water used to go right up to the main wall. It's on this man-made strip of land that you'll find the Riva, a pedestrian promenade bustling with life. Split's UNESCO listed Old Town is contained within these old walls and is a pedestrian-only maze that it is quite easy, but fun, to get lost in. Who know what romantic hidden cafés you might find in one of the narrow streets and alleyways? To get the best out of your time in Split, however, we recommend taking a tour with a local guide. Split is very well connected for flights, with an international airport a half hour drive away and is a popular stopping point for our guests on their way between Dubrovnik and the islands of Hvar, Vis, or Korcula, all easily reached by a ferry from Split's port. If you base yourself in Split for a few days, you will find it is also perfect located for visits to some of Croatia's most stunning national parks.

The Roman Emperor Diocletian made Split his home in the 4th Century AD, building a vast palace complex on the waterfront that stands to this day. In fact several of the accommodation options we offer in Split are nestled inside its ancient walls. These days there is an embankment in front of Diocletian's palace but the water used to go right up to the main wall. It's on this man-made strip of land that you'll find the Riva, a pedestrian promenade bustling with life. Split's UNESCO listed Old Town is contained within these old walls and is a pedestrian-only maze that it is quite easy, but fun, to get lost in. Who know what romantic hidden cafés you might find in one of the narrow streets and alleyways? To get the best out of your time in Split, however, we recommend taking a tour with a local guide. Split is very well connected for flights, with an international airport a half hour drive away and is a popular stopping point for our guests on their way between Dubrovnik and the islands of Hvar, Vis, or Korcula, all easily reached by a ferry from Split's port. If you base yourself in Split for a few days, you will find it is also perfect located for visits to some of Croatia's most stunning national parks.

Day 4

Day 4 - Arrival in Split

Your driver will bring you straight to your accommodations upon arrival in Split.

The Right Place for Ancient Times

Suggestion to explore on your own

The best way to get started in Split is to spend time on the former grounds of Diocletian's Palace. Visit Peristil, the palace's main square, sit on its ancient stairs, and enjoy the remarkable view. Or take a seat at a cafe on the square to order a glass of local wine and take it easy. If you need to stretch your legs, head on a pleasant walk on the West Coast and enjoy the light sea breeze and amazing view of the main Riva promenade and the Palace. On the West Coast (Zapadna Obala), you will discover an interesting fact about Split: it is considered the sportiest town in the world. Here, you will find the names of more than 80 Olympic winners from Split! Take your pick among the area's many bars for a delicious cocktail!

The Right Place for Ancient Times

Day 5

Day 5 - Your First Full Day in Split

Split Private Walking Tour

Split Private Walking Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

With a professional tour guide, you will be led through the UNESCO-listed 1,700-year-old Diocletian's Palace, imagining what the life of Diocletian was like within the walls of his palace. During the tour, you will see the Cathedral of St. Duje, one of the most beautiful cultural wonders on the Adriatic coast, as well as the ancient cellars, and Peristil in the center of the palace, the famous Golden Gate, and the hulking statue of Bishop Grgur Ninski. This is an excellent way to get to know Split and its fascinating history.


Activity Level : Easy
Duration : 1 hour 30 minutes

Split's Laid-Back Christmas Markets

Suggestion to explore on your own

Split’s laid-back population is fond of festivals, and Christmas and Advent are no exceptions. During Advent, the squares in and around Diocletian’s Palace fill with Christmas markets, as does the Riva promenade along the sea. The Riva may be decorated with processions of palm trees, but the nearby mountains are often snow-capped in December. Below them, the markets are full of traditional treats, from mulled wine to roasted chestnuts. For something more local, we recommend seeking out small doughnuts topped with powdered sugar and often flavored with raisins, rum, and citrus zest (Fritule), as well as gingerbread-like cookies made with honey and black pepper (Paprenjak).

See our blog for plenty more details.

Split's Laid-Back Christmas Markets

Day 6

Day 6 - Traveling to Dubrovnik by Private Transfer

You'll be heading south this morning via a relaxing, scenic ride down the Dalmatian coast. Based on your morning departure time preference, a private driver will pick you up at your accommodation and bring you directly to Dubrovnik, a journey which takes a little more than 3 hours. Please note that this is a non guided transfer with a local English-speaking driver. 

If you'd like to make the most of the day, for an additional fee you can choose to make a stop along the way, perhaps to explore Ston, the oyster capital of Croatia. Or you could detour to Mostar, one of the highlights of Bosnia, to see the famously reconstructed bridge.

Dubrovnik by Private Transfer
We also offer the following excursions in Split

Bike, Beer and Poljud Stadium Small Group Tour
Moderate4 hours
Blue Cave and Hvar Island Group Speedboat Tour
Light10 hours
Blue Lagoon and Trogir Small Group Tour
Light4 hours and 30 minutes
Chef's Table Private Food Experience
Easy2 hours

2 Nights in Dubrovnik

2 Nights in Dubrovnik

3 days in Dubrovnik
3 days in Dubrovnik

2 Nights in Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik offers an unusual blend of modern culture and ancient traditions. Marble-smooth polished limestone streets, a labyrinth of alleyways, and breathtaking architecture compose the unique atmosphere of the Old Town. You’ll experience a true variety of sightseeing, leisure, and outdoor adventures here. Dubrovnik’s most stunning feature is the 82-foot tall city wall which extends more than a mile. Game of Thrones fans will be in luck, as we offer a special tour to local set locations. King’s Landing never looked so good! There’s a rich selection of live performances for music lovers here, as concerts are performed daily, and in July and August the Dubrovnik Summer Festival of music, theatre and dance brings incredible performers from around the world. The nightlife is also exciting, with restaurants, cafes and bars that will keep you socializing until dawn. You’ll be staying in beautiful accommodation within short walking distance to all the major sites, so you’ll be able to sample a little of everything. But there are also several exciting day trips and cruises to enjoy. From kayaking through hidden coves to an authentic Croatian cooking class, vineyard tours, and trips as far afield as Montenegro, you’ll have more than enough to fill your itinerary.

Dubrovnik offers an unusual blend of modern culture and ancient traditions. Marble-smooth polished limestone streets, a labyrinth of alleyways, and breathtaking architecture compose the unique atmosphere of the Old Town. You’ll experience a true variety of sightseeing, leisure, and outdoor adventures here. Dubrovnik’s most stunning feature is the 82-foot tall city wall which extends more than a mile. Game of Thrones fans will be in luck, as we offer a special tour to local set locations. King’s Landing never looked so good! There’s a rich selection of live performances for music lovers here, as concerts are performed daily, and in July and August the Dubrovnik Summer Festival of music, theatre and dance brings incredible performers from around the world. The nightlife is also exciting, with restaurants, cafes and bars that will keep you socializing until dawn. You’ll be staying in beautiful accommodation within short walking distance to all the major sites, so you’ll be able to sample a little of everything. But there are also several exciting day trips and cruises to enjoy. From kayaking through hidden coves to an authentic Croatian cooking class, vineyard tours, and trips as far afield as Montenegro, you’ll have more than enough to fill your itinerary.

Day 6

Day 6 - Arrival in Dubrovnik

When you arrive at the Dubrovnik bus station, a driver will wait for you and bring you to your accommodation.

Night and the City

Suggestion to explore on your own

Discover the beauty of Dubrovnik while strolling down its cobbled streets and have a drink on the main street, where you can simply sit back and observe the world bustling around you. Head to the beloved local spot, Gradska Kavana Arsenal Restaurant, and you'll instantly feel like you've entered a living piece of history. It is a must-visit spot for anyone wanting to soak up the city's authentic vibe. And then there's the secret garden M'arden – a hidden gem nestled within the ancient city walls. It's the kind of place that whispers tranquility, inviting you to escape the hustle and bustle. As the night falls, the garden transforms into a magical retreat, making it a perfect spot for those seeking a peaceful and enchanting experience. For a different perspective, venture to the famous Buza Bar. With a name translating to "Hole in the Wall," Buza is not just a great bar but a lovely location, offering breathtaking views of incredible scenery at sunset. These three places, each with its unique charm, capture the essence of Dubrovnik in ways that words can only begin to describe.

Night and the City

Day 7

Day 7 - Your First Full Day in Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik Private Walking Tour

Dubrovnik Private Walking Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

Enjoy a private walking tour into the historic heart of Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Visit city’s major landmarks and hear stories of how Dubrovnik became one of the world’s most prosperous and advanced maritime republics. A walking tour of Old Town will take you to its elegant main street and most of its most important sights. This is the perfect way to get oriented in the Old Town, and will give you the best insight into the rich history of Dubrovnik.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 1 hour and 30 minutes

Festive Delights Christmas Market

Suggestion to explore on your own

While many locals take a break at the end of the year, December is still a great time to visit Dubrovnik. They don't turn the waves off and take the impressive medieval walls down for winter! The temperatures remain quite pleasant, if a little on the cool side, and the ease of movement without so many tourists makes up for the fact that you'll find slightly fewer restaurants open, as the locals take advantage of the off-season to do some traveling of their own. The Christmas markets occupy the legendary Stradun, the old walled city's main thoroughfare. If you're there at this time of year, it's definitely a location to check out.

Festive Delights Christmas Market

Dubrovnik's Zenith and Nadir

Suggestion to explore on your own

If you’re interested in learning more about Dubrovnik's past, the city will be happy to help. Housed in a former 16th century granary, the Rupe Ethnographic Museum will teach you about the rural economy of Dubrovnik's surroundings, while offering a rich collection of folk costumes and hand-crafted textiles. In Fort Imperial on Srđ hill, be sure to check out the Museum of Contemporary History's "Dubrovnik in the Homeland War 1991-1995" exhibit. During the fighting in the 90s, the fort was Dubrovnik's first line of defense, and a symbol of its defenders. In the St. John fortress, visit the Dubrovnik Maritime Museum containing objects, paintings and documents related to the most important activity in the history of the city - maritime trade.

Dubrovnik's Zenith and Nadir

Day 8

Day 8 - Departure Day

A driver will pick you up at your Dubrovnik accommodation and drop you off at the airport for your departing flight. Duration of the drive is about 30 minutes.

We also offer the following excursions in Dubrovnik

Break of Yugoslavia Private Walking Tour
Light1 hour and 30 minutes
Countryside Olive Grove Group Experience
Light3 hours
DU the Wire Group Zip Line Experience
Moderate1 hour 30 minutes
Dubrovnik Photo Private Tour
Light2 hours

What's Included

Here are all the services provided as part of your complete vacation package. See what every JayWay trip includes.
Please let us know if you'd like to upgrade any transfers or add any additional tours or excursions to your itinerary.

Zagreb

3 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Zagreb Airport Transfer
Zagreb Private Walking Tour
Zagreb - Split Private Transfer with a Stop in Plitvice (Entrances NOT Included)

Split

2 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Split Private Walking Tour
Split - Dubrovnik Private Transfer

Dubrovnik

2 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Luggage assistance in Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik Bus Station Transfer
Dubrovnik Private Walking Tour
Luggage assistance in Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik Airport Departure Transfer

package excludes:


  • Flights to and from Europe.
  • Tips for Tour Guides, Drivers and Local Reps.
  • Meals (other than breakfast if included in room rate and meals listed as included in food tours and excursions, unless explicitly stated otherwise).
  • Parking fees for your Rental Car (if you are booking one with us) unless otherwise indicated. Some hotels provide free parking facilities.
  • Travel Insurance. See the insurance link on our website
Benefits of Traveling with JayWay

A JayWay vacation is more than the sum of its parts. Our team work tirelessly to ensure your experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Your trip is personalized to maximize your enjoyment. You're taken care of every step of the way.

A Travel Advisor who speaks your language

We will make sure that all your requirements and interests are taken into account in preparing your itinerary.

A totally tailored itinerary for your vacation

Your trip is customized for you by  an experienced trip planner and an expert on the region.

A choice of hand-picked hotels and excursions

We've personally inspected and tested all the hotels and local tour providers we work with to ensure quality.

Detailed pre-trip preparation to make the most of every day

Your Europe-based Tour Manager will be in touch by email and phone a month before you arrive to finalize timings.

On-trip Concierge Service to smooth out any bumps in the road

Your tour manager is at your service throughout your journey. We'll provide a local SIM so you can stay connected.

Personalized Guest Page to make sure you're not missing out

Packed with detailed information and recommendations curated by locals on the best things to do, see and eat.
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