Zagreb, Plitvice Lakes and Zadar Pre-Voyage Extension

Arrive in Zagreb and transfer to the hotel for a welcome dinner. (D)

After breakfast, meet your guide and travel by private mini tram into Zagreb’s city center for a guided walking tour of Croatia’s vibrant capital. One of Central Europe’s oldest cities, Zagreb blends centuries of history with a lively street culture, elegant architecture, museums and inviting green spaces.

After the tour, roll up your sleeves for a hands-on culinary experience. During a fun and immersive cooking class, learn to prepare štrukli, a beloved traditional dish from northern Croatia. The experience includes a visit to a local farmers market with tastings, and the opportunity to enjoy your freshly made dish for lunch.

The afternoon is at leisure. In the evening, gather for dinner at a local restaurant, accompanied by a folkloric dance performance that offers a lively introduction to Croatia’s cultural traditions. (B,L,D)

This morning, journey into the Plešivica wine region, renowned for its rolling hills, scenic beauty and thriving viticulture. Visit the family-run Kurtalj Winery, where generations work side by side in the vineyards. Explore the winery and enjoy a tasting of their high-quality wines, followed by a leisurely lunch.

Continue to Janja Gora for a hands-on introduction to the ceramic arts. Under the guidance of a master ceramic artist, learn foundational techniques before creating your own piece—perhaps a figurine, cup, plate or keychain. Later, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. (B,L,D)

Set out on a guided exploration of Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia’s oldest and most celebrated national park. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Plitvice is renowned for its chain of 16 terraced lakes linked by cascading waterfalls and surrounded by dense forests. Stroll wooden pathways above crystal-clear waters as you take in the park’s remarkable natural beauty and diverse wildlife. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to the hotel.

The afternoon is at leisure, with the opportunity to explore Željava Air Base on an optional e-bike tour, suitable for every skill level. Once the largest underground military complex in Europe and a fully operational airport, this vast Cold War–era site offers a fascinating glimpse into an ambitious chapter of 20th-century engineering. Cycle along former runways, explore underground tunnels and learn the history of one of the most extraordinary military projects of the 1960s.

Later, sit down to dinner at a local family-run restaurant. (B,L,D)

After breakfast, transfer to the historic coastal city of Zadar, a place shaped by centuries of romance, resilience and cultural exchange. Discover this rich past as you explore architectural and historical highlights, including the Museum of Ancient Glass. Here, you’ll have the chance to watch skilled artisans recreate ancient glass forms during a glassblowing demonstration.

Later, discover Zadar independently, exploring landmarks like the St. Donatus Church. Perhaps stroll the Zadar promenade and try some sweet fritule (mini doughnuts) before meeting at the hotel to transfer to the port for embarkation. (B,L)