3-Day Croatia & Mostar Private Tour: Zagreb to Dubrovnik

Summary

Private Guided Journey: Plitvice Lakes, Split & Mostar Highlights

If you want to see Croatia’s top sights without hassle—Plitvice’s lakes, Split’s Roman heart, Mostar’s iconic bridge—and finish in Dubrovnik with everything handled for you, this private tour is honestly hard to beat.

What’s the experience like?

Early morning in Zagreb felt crisp—our driver was right on time, coffee in hand. We left the city behind and soon reached Rastoke, a tiny village that looks straight out of a storybook. Water tumbles everywhere here, weaving between old wooden mills and houses with faded red roofs. You can actually hear the rush of the falls before you see them. Our guide pointed out a bakery where locals grab warm pastries; I grabbed one too—still steaming inside.

Next up was Plitvice Lakes National Park. Even if you’ve seen photos, nothing prepares you for the real thing. The air smelled fresh, almost sweet from all the moss and water spray. We wandered wooden walkways over clear blue-green lakes—sometimes you spot little fish darting below your feet. The boat ride across Kozjak Lake was calm, just birds overhead and a few other travelers snapping photos. Our guide shared stories about the park’s history (UNESCO since 1979) and made sure we didn’t miss the best waterfall views or get stuck behind big groups—skipping lines really helped.

By late afternoon, we rolled into Split just as the sun started dipping low over the sea. Checked into our hotel near the Old Town—perfect timing for a stroll along Riva promenade where everyone seems to be out chatting or sipping espresso. The salty breeze off the Adriatic hits different after a day on your feet.

The next morning kicked off with a walking tour through Diocletian’s Palace—a maze of stone alleys and Roman columns mixed with shops and cafés. Our local guide knew every shortcut and even pointed out where Game of Thrones filmed some scenes (locals love sharing that). Afterward, we had free time; I climbed Marjan Hill for city views while others browsed markets or just relaxed by the harbor.

On day three, we set off early for Mostar in Bosnia & Herzegovina. Crossing borders took less than expected (bring your passport!). In Mostar, our guide led us through cobbled streets lined with Ottoman-era houses to Stari Most—the famous Old Bridge arching high above emerald water. Saw two young guys prepping to dive off it (apparently it’s tradition). Lunch was ćevapi at a riverside spot—the smoky grill smell still lingers in my mind.

The final stretch brought us to Dubrovnik by evening. Driving along the coast as dusk settled was something else—the city walls glowing under streetlights, sea breeze carrying hints of pine and saltwater. Our driver dropped us right at our accommodation inside those ancient walls—a perfect end to three packed days.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Zagreb, Rastoke & Plitvice

• Visit Rastoke Village
• Explore Plitvice Lakes National Park
• Arrive and relax in Split

Day 2 — Split Guided Tour & Free Time

• Guided walking tour of Diocletian's Palace
• Free afternoon in Split

Day 3 — Mostar & Dubrovnik

• Travel to Mostar and guided city tour
• Evening arrival in Dubrovnik

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for families with kids?

Yes! The pace is relaxed and there are specialized infant seats available upon request. Kids usually love Plitvice Lakes and watching divers at Mostar's bridge.

Do I need to bring my passport?

Yes—you’ll cross into Bosnia & Herzegovina when visiting Mostar so passports are required for everyone on board.

How much walking is involved?

You’ll walk quite a bit in Plitvice Lakes and Split Old Town but there are plenty of breaks and it’s manageable for most fitness levels.

Are meals included?

No meals are included but guides recommend great local spots along the way—from bakeries in Rastoke to riverside grills in Mostar.

What’s included

Your private tour covers hotel pickup/drop-off each day, all transport by comfy minivan (with AC), entrance fees for Plitvice Lakes National Park, bottled water throughout, plus friendly local guides who know their stuff—and you’ll skip long lines at busy spots too.