Known for arboretum, fountain, garden, monument, viewpoint
Trsteno is a picturesque coastal village situated in southern Croatia, and is home for famous Arboretum, a magnificent garden with a sophisticated botanical collection featuring exotic species brought from all over the world, include the two giant Oriental Plane trees more than 500 years old, and beautiful fontain from 15th century.
You understand, it is impossible to see Croatia just in a couple of days. Come with us to explore Croatia in a 1-2 week road trip. We will pass Trsteno, along with other Croatia' attractions, to discover the soul of the country, its way of life, culture and traditions, food and drinks. Browse our tours passing Trsteno, or contact us directly for a custom tour in Croatia. By the way, we charge nothing for a custom itinerary. Contact us directly, let's plan all the details of your trip and get it done!
Cavtat - Known for beach, coastal town, historical center, marina, museum (art), palace, peninsula, promenade, viewpoint, franciscan monastery, franciscan church
Dubrovnik - Known for fortress, funicular, historical center, marina, medieval old town, museum, promenade, seaport, venetian empire; historical center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Poreč (Porec) - Known for beach, coastal town, historic house, historical center, mosaic, promenade, walls, catholic basilica; basilica is a UNESCO World Heritage Site; mosaic is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Primošten (Primosten) - Known for beach, coastal town, cultural landscape, historical center, promenade, viewpoint, workshop, catholic church; cultural landscape is a UNESCO Tentative List Site
Pula - Known for ancient theatre, fortress, gate, historical landmark, museum (olive and olive oil)
Rovinj - Known for coastal town, gate, historical center, marina, museum (heritage), promenade, viewpoint, walls, catholic church; museum (heritage) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Salona - Known for ancient settlement, ancient theatre, archaeological site, catholic church
Šibenik (Sibenik) - Known for coastal town, fortified town, fortress, historical center, marina, promenade, venetian empire, viewpoint, catholic cathedral, franciscan church; cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site; fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Šolta (Solta) - Known for beach, coastal town, island, marina, viewpoint, waterfall
Split - Known for beach, coastal town, gate, historical center, historical landmark, museum (archaeological), museum (art), palace, promenade, seaport; historical center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Ston - Known for architecture, fortress, historical ensemble, museum, palace, walls; historical ensemble is a UNESCO Tentative List Site
Trogir - Known for coastal town, fortress, historical center, marina, museum, palace, promenade, catholic cathedral, catholic church; historical center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Vir - Known for castle, coastal town, marina, peninsula, scenic road, viewpoint
Vis - Known for island, marina, museum, viewpoint, winery + wine tasting
Zadar - Known for byzantine empire, coastal town, fortified town, fortress, gate, historical center, marina, museum, promenade, seaport, venetian empire, catholic cathedral; fortified town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Zagreb - Known for castle, funicular, historical center, museum (National), museum (science & technology), catholic cathedral
Trsteno is a picturesque coastal village situated in southern Croatia, nestled along the stunning Adriatic Sea about 20 kilometers northwest of the historic city of Dubrovnik. According to the most recent 2021 census, Trsteno has a population of just 215 permanent residents. This modest population of around 200 people gives the village a quiet, intimate, and relaxed atmosphere. The number of inhabitants has remained relatively stable, with approximately 222 residents reported in 2016, highlighting its nature as a small but treasured community.
Historically, Trsteno was known by different names during various periods. The earliest recorded name is the Latin 'Cannosa', and in the Dalmatian language, it was referred to as 'Canait'. The modern name 'Trsteno' is believed to derive from the word 'trska' (Croatian for reed), reflecting the vegetation that once dominated the marshy land near the coast. This shift in names over centuries mirrors the rich and layered cultural history of the Dubrovnik region.
The history of Trsteno is deeply connected to the noble families of the powerful Republic of Ragusa, particularly the Gučetić (Gozze) family. The settlement began to gain prominence in the 15th century when the aristocracy started building summer estates on this beautiful stretch of coast. The most significant turning point came in 1494 when a nobleman named Ivan Marinov Gučetić-Gozze commissioned a summer villa and laid out a magnificent garden on the property.
The garden created in 1494 is the foundation of the world-famous Trsteno Arboretum, which is considered the oldest arboretum on the Dalmatian coast. Over the centuries, the estate remained in the hands of the Gučetić family, who carefully maintained and expanded the grounds. The garden evolved from a simple Renaissance layout into a sophisticated botanical collection featuring exotic species brought from all over the world.
A significant change occurred in 1948 when the property was nationalized and declared a protected natural rarity. The estate was eventually taken over by the Yugoslav Academy of Sciences and Arts (today's Croatian Academy of Sciences and Arts - HAZU), which turned it into a public arboretum. Since 1967, it has held the status of a cultural monument, and in 2017 the entire countryside ensemble was registered as a cultural asset of Croatia. Today, HAZU manages the Arboretum for scientific, educational, and tourist purposes.
The Arboretum is the crown jewel of Trsteno and the main reason tourists visit the village. The park stretches across approximately 28 hectares (roughly 70 acres) and features a stunning variety of plant life, including over 300 species from around the world. The design is a beautiful blend of styles, featuring a formal Renaissance layout with geometric shapes, a neo-romantic garden from the 19th century, and wild, untouched natural areas.
One of the most breathtaking sights in the Arboretum, located near the entrance of the village, are the two giant Oriental Plane trees. These colossal trees are estimated to be more than 500 years old and stand approximately 50 meters (150 feet) high, making them among the largest of their kind in Europe. Seeing these ancient living monuments is a humbling and unforgettable experience for every visitor.
At the heart of the Renaissance garden lies a beautiful fountain that was originally constructed in the 15th century. In 1736, the family reshaped it into a baroque nymphaeum (a monument dedicated to nymphs) centered around a striking statue of Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, surrounded by nymphs. The fountain is fed by a historic stone aqueduct, which is still in use today to irrigate the gardens, a testament to the advanced engineering of the past.
While the 15th-century stone summer villa, built around 1500, stands as the centerpiece of the estate, it is generally not open to the public. However, visitors can explore the grounds around it, including a cliff-edge pavilion that offers spectacular panoramic views over the Trsteno harbor and the Adriatic Sea. This pavilion is a favorite spot for photography.
For fans of the popular television series Game of Thrones, Trsteno Arboretum holds a special significance. The garden was extensively used as a filming location for the palace gardens of King's Landing during seasons 3 and 4. The cliffside pavilion was a favorite spot for the character Lady Olenna Tyrell, and many other areas in the garden appeared on screen as the royal gardens.
The arboretum also contains a fascinating old olive mill with preserved olive presses, offering a glimpse into the agricultural history of the region. Additionally, there is a small chapel located behind the main villa, which adds to the serene and spiritual atmosphere of the estate. These smaller details make exploring the grounds a journey of discovery.
Beyond the Arboretum, the village of Trsteno itself is charming to explore. The small harbor down the hill is particularly picturesque, with traditional boats bobbing in the clear water and offering a perfect spot for a quiet rest after a day of walking. The surrounding olive groves and natural vegetation invite gentle walks and immersion in the Mediterranean landscape.
Trsteno enjoys a hot-summer Mediterranean climate, characteristic of the Dalmatian coast. This means the village experiences hot, dry summers with plenty of sunshine, and mild, wet winters. The average summer temperature ranges around 25-30°C (77-86°F), while winters are cooler with average lows around 5-10°C (41-50°F). The best times to visit are in the late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) when the weather is warm but pleasant, and the crowds from the peak summer months have thinned.
Tourists are drawn to Trsteno for the chance to step into a living piece of history and nature. The Arboretum offers a unique experience where 500-year-old trees, Renaissance art, and stunning Adriatic views come together in a peaceful setting. Whether you are a Game of Thrones fan looking to see King's Landing gardens, a garden enthusiast wanting to see one of the oldest arboretums in the world, or simply a traveler seeking a quiet escape from the busy streets of Dubrovnik, Trsteno provides a refreshing and memorable day trip on the beautiful Dalmatian coast.
Trsteno related tours
We at Monterrasol Travel welcome you to see Trsteno during multi-day private car tour. Contact us if you would like to customize your tour to Trsteno.
We have developed several private tours that visiting beautiful Trsteno. But, if you have a special conditions or any from these tours fit you, please do not hesitate to contact us, we can organize a tour exactly as you would like. We charge nothing for develop a custom itinerary. And remember, we have no problems to take you from almost any place where you stay, hotel or private accommodation.
Discover Bosnia-Herzegovina by small all seasons 3 days tour from Dubrovnik. We will visit famous Tvrdos Orthodox monastery and taste real Herzegovina white, rose and red wines from its own wine cellar, admire panoramic view of Trebinje from beautiful church overlooking the town from a hill, and enjoy small walk tour in Trebinje, known for its river with crystal clear water, beautiful Ottoman bridge, and small old town.
On the second day we will take a road to see Zavala Orthodox cave monastery, archaeological site Radimlja with carved gravestones (UNESCO World Heritage Site), historical town Blagaj with dervish monastery (tekija) built around 1520, and rest of this day we will spend walking historical center of Mostar and Mostar old bridge (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
On the third day we will visit old town Pocitelj to walk by narrow streets and enjoy panoramic view from the Ottoman fort. We will have a lunch in local restaurant and before start our way back to Dubrovnik we will have a walk in rare place, a real Roman villa Rustica, established as agricultural estate in 4th century AD.
We will return back by scenic road along Adriatic sea admire Dubrovnik Riviera. Before arriving to Dubrovnik, we will walk in Trsteno Arboretum (botanical garden containing living collections of woody plants), known from 1492.
tour destinations: Klis, Salona, Split, Ston, Trsteno
Day 1. We depart from Dubrovnik and travel to Trsteno to explore its magnificent arboretum, one of the oldest Renaissance gardens in Dalmatia, dating back to the 15th century and featuring a stunning collection of exotic plants, fountains, and a grand aqueduct. We then continue to Ston to see the impressive Kastio fortress, part of a monumental defensive wall system built by the Republic of Ragusa in the 14th century. After that, we will come to Split for accommodation.
Day 2. After staying in Split, we dedicate the day to exploring the city's historical center, a living museum built around the 4th-century Diocletian's Palace (UNESCO World Heritage Site). We visit the Cathedral of St. Domnius, originally Diocletian's mausoleum, and walk through the Golden Gate, the ancient palace's monumental northern entrance. We stay another night in Split.
Day 3. After 2 nights in Split, we travel to Klis to explore its formidable fortress, perched dramatically on a rocky ridge and known for its role in defending the region against Ottoman incursions for centuries. We then travel to Solin, ancient Salona, to see its extensive archaeological site, once the capital of the Roman province of Dalmatia and the birthplace of Emperor Diocletian. Finally, we arrive in Split, where our memorable journey concludes.
tour destinations: Loreto, Split, Ston, Trogir, Trsteno, Šibenik
Day 1. We depart from Dubrovnik and travel to Trsteno to explore its magnificent arboretum, one of the oldest Renaissance gardens in Dalmatia, dating back to the 15th century. We then continue to Ston to see the impressive Kastio fortress, part of a monumental defensive wall system built by the Republic of Ragusa in the 14th century. After that, we will come to Split for accommodation.
Day 2. After staying in Split, we dedicate the day to exploring the city's historical center, a living museum built around the 4th-century Diocletian's Palace (UNESCO World Heritage Site). We visit the Cathedral of St. Domnius, originally Diocletian's mausoleum, and walk through the Golden Gate, the ancient palace's monumental northern entrance. We stay another night in Split.
Day 3. After 2 nights in Split, we travel to the enchanting island-town of Trogir (UNESCO World Heritage Site), where we explore its beautifully preserved medieval core, the 13th-century Cathedral of St. Lawrence with its masterpiece portal, and the 15th-century Kamerlengo Fortress. We then travel to Loreto to see the Our Lady monument before continuing to Sibenik for accommodation.
Day 4. After staying in Sibenik, we explore its atmospheric historical center and visit the magnificent Cathedral of St. James (UNESCO World Heritage Site), a masterpiece of Gothic and Renaissance architecture built entirely of stone between the 15th and 16th centuries. We also see the Barone Fortress (UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the sea-guardian St. Nicholas Fortress (UNESCO World Heritage Site), both integral to the city's defensive heritage. Finally, we arrive in Split, where our memorable journey concludes.
tour destinations: Klis, Loreto, Salona, Split, Ston, Trogir, Trsteno, Šibenik
Day 1. We depart from Dubrovnik and travel to Trsteno to explore its magnificent arboretum, one of the oldest Renaissance gardens in Dalmatia, dating back to the 15th century and featuring a stunning collection of exotic plants, fountains, and a grand aqueduct. We then continue to Ston to see the impressive Kastio fortress, part of a monumental defensive wall system built by the Republic of Ragusa in the 14th century. After that, we will come to Split for accommodation.
Day 2. After staying in Split, we dedicate the day to exploring the city's historical center, a living museum built around the 4th-century Diocletian's Palace (UNESCO World Heritage Site). We visit the Cathedral of St. Domnius, originally Diocletian's mausoleum, and walk through the Golden Gate, the ancient palace's monumental northern entrance. We stay another night in Split.
Day 3. After 2 nights in Split, we travel to the enchanting island-town of Trogir (UNESCO World Heritage Site), where we explore its beautifully preserved medieval core, the 13th-century Cathedral of St. Lawrence with its masterpiece portal, and the 15th-century Kamerlengo Fortress. We then travel to Loreto to see the Our Lady monument before continuing to Sibenik for accommodation.
Day 4. After staying in Sibenik, we explore its atmospheric historical center and visit the magnificent Cathedral of St. James (UNESCO World Heritage Site), a masterpiece of Gothic and Renaissance architecture built entirely of stone between the 15th and 16th centuries. We also see the Barone Fortress (UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the sea-guardian St. Nicholas Fortress (UNESCO World Heritage Site), both integral to the city's defensive heritage. We stay another night in Sibenik.
Day 5. After 2 nights in Sibenik, we travel to Klis to explore its formidable fortress, perched dramatically on a rocky ridge and known for its role in defending the region against Ottoman incursions for centuries. We then travel to Solin, ancient Salona, to see its extensive archaeological site, once the capital of the Roman province of Dalmatia and birthplace of Emperor Diocletian. Finally, we arrive in Split, where our memorable journey concludes.
Day 1. We depart from Dubrovnik and travel to Trsteno to explore its magnificent arboretum, one of the oldest Renaissance gardens in Dalmatia, dating back to the 15th century. We then continue to Ston to see the impressive Kastio fortress and explore the Ston historical ensemble (UNESCO Tentative List Site), including the famous Ston walls, a monumental defensive system built by the Republic of Ragusa in the 14th-15th centuries, often called the 'European Wall of China'. After that, we will come to Split for accommodation.
Day 2. After staying in Split, we spend the day exploring the city's historical center, a vibrant living museum wrapped around the 4th-century Diocletian's Palace (UNESCO World Heritage Site). We visit the Cathedral of St. Domnius (originally Diocletian's mausoleum), stroll through the Golden Gate, the palace's monumental northern entrance, and soak in the atmosphere of this ancient imperial residence. We stay another night in Split.
Day 3. After 2 nights in Split, we travel to the charming island-town of Trogir (UNESCO World Heritage Site), where we explore its beautifully preserved medieval core, the 13th-century Cathedral of St. Lawrence with its masterful portal, and the 15th-century Kamerlengo Fortress. We then continue to Loreto to see the Statue of Our Lady of Loreto, a 30-meter-tall votive monument erected in 1960 by the grateful local community after their vineyards were miraculously spared from disease, and enjoy the stunning panoramic viewpoint. After that, we will come to Sibenik for accommodation.
Day 4. After staying in Sibenik, we explore the sea-guardian St. Nicholas Fortress (UNESCO World Heritage Site), located at the entrance to the St. Anthony Channel, as well as the Barone Fortress and St. Michael Fortress (both UNESCO World Heritage Sites). We then wander through Sibenik's atmospheric historical center and admire the magnificent Cathedral of St. James (UNESCO World Heritage Site), a masterpiece of Gothic and Renaissance architecture built entirely of stone between the 15th and 16th centuries. We stay another night in Sibenik.
Day 5. After 2 nights in Sibenik, we travel to Zadar to explore its fortified old town (UNESCO World Heritage Site), a city with roots stretching back to antiquity. We wander through the historical center, experience the enchanting Sea Organ, an architectural sound installation that creates melodies from the waves, visit the 12th-century St. Anastasia's Cathedral, and stroll through the Roman Forum, the largest on the eastern Adriatic coast. We will stay in Zadar.
Day 6. After staying in Zadar, we explore the unique Underwater Archaeology museum, showcasing finds from submerged ancient sites, and the Ancient Glass museum, housed in a restored 19th-century Cosmacendi palace, which displays an impressive collection of Roman glassware from the 1st to 4th centuries AD. We stay another night in Zadar.
Day 7. After 2 nights in Zadar, we travel to Dubovac to explore Dubovac Fortress, a well-preserved hilltop castle overlooking the town of Karlovac. We then continue to Karlovac to visit Aquatika, the freshwater aquarium that showcases the diverse aquatic life of Croatia's rivers and lakes. Finally, we arrive in Zagreb, where our memorable journey concludes.
Day 1. We depart from Dubrovnik and travel to Trsteno to explore its magnificent arboretum, one of the oldest Renaissance gardens in Dalmatia, dating back to the 15th century. We then continue to Ston to see the impressive Kastio fortress and explore the Ston historical ensemble (UNESCO Tentative List Site), including the famous Ston walls, a monumental defensive system built by the Republic of Ragusa in the 14th-15th centuries, often called the 'European Wall of China'. After that, we will come to Split for accommodation.
Day 2. After staying in Split, we spend the day exploring the city's historical center, a vibrant living museum wrapped around the 4th-century Diocletian's Palace (UNESCO World Heritage Site). We visit the Cathedral of St. Domnius (originally Diocletian's mausoleum), stroll through the Golden Gate, the palace's monumental northern entrance, and soak in the atmosphere of this ancient imperial residence. We stay another night in Split.
Day 3. After 2 nights in Split, we travel to the charming island-town of Trogir (UNESCO World Heritage Site), where we explore its beautifully preserved medieval core, the 13th-century Cathedral of St. Lawrence with its masterful portal, and the 15th-century Kamerlengo Fortress. We then continue to Loreto to see the Statue of Our Lady of Loreto, a 30-meter-tall votive monument erected in 1960 by the grateful local community after their vineyards were miraculously spared from disease, and enjoy the stunning panoramic viewpoint. After that, we will come to Sibenik for accommodation.
Day 4. After staying in Sibenik, we explore the sea-guardian St. Nicholas Fortress (UNESCO World Heritage Site), located at the entrance to the St. Anthony Channel, as well as the Barone Fortress and St. Michael Fortress (both UNESCO World Heritage Sites). We then wander through Sibenik's atmospheric historical center and admire the magnificent Cathedral of St. James (UNESCO World Heritage Site), a masterpiece of Gothic and Renaissance architecture built entirely of stone between the 15th and 16th centuries. We stay another night in Sibenik.
Day 5. After 2 nights in Sibenik, we travel to Zadar to explore its fortified old town (UNESCO World Heritage Site), a city with roots stretching back to antiquity. We wander through the historical center, experience the enchanting Sea Organ, an architectural sound installation that creates melodies from the waves, visit the 12th-century St. Anastasia's Cathedral, and stroll through the Roman Forum, the largest on the eastern Adriatic coast. We will stay in Zadar.
Day 6. After staying in Zadar, we travel to Fortica to explore the Fortica Fortress, a Venetian hilltop fort offering sweeping views over the island of Pag and the Velebit mountain range. We then continue to Nin, a historic town built on a small island, to visit the Salt Museum, which preserves the tradition of salt production dating back to Roman times, and see the tiny 9th-century Holy Cross Church, often called the smallest cathedral in the world. Our journey proceeds to the island of Vir to see Kastelina Castle, a 19th-century fortified manor house, and to admire the breathtaking Red Stone viewpoint. After that, we will return to Zadar for accommodation.
Day 7. After 2 nights in Zadar, we travel to the Nikola Tesla Memorial Centre in Smiljan, the birthplace of the famous inventor. We explore the museum dedicated to Tesla's life and groundbreaking work in electricity and engineering. We then continue to Ogulin to see Ogulin Castle (Castle of the Frankopans), a 16th-century fortress surrounded by a deep moat and connected to local legends. We visit the Ogulin Heritage museum and the charming Ivana's House of Fairy Tales, dedicated to the stories of Ivana Brlic-Mazuranic, Croatia's beloved children's author. We will stay in Ogulin.
Day 8. After staying in Ogulin, we travel to Dubovac to explore Dubovac Fortress, a well-preserved hilltop castle overlooking the town of Karlovac. We then continue to Karlovac to visit Aquatika, the freshwater aquarium that showcases the diverse aquatic life of Croatia's rivers and lakes. Finally, we arrive in Zagreb, where our memorable journey concludes.
tour destinations: Bale, Belaj, Buje, Buzet, Dubovac, Grožnjan, Karlovac, Loreto, Morosini, Motovun, Nehaj, Nova Kraljevica, Ogulin, Pazin, Poreč, Pula, Rijeka, Rovinj, Senj, Split, Stara Sušica, Ston, Sveti Petar u Šumi, Trogir, Trsat, Trsteno, Zadar, Zminj, Šibenik
Day 1. We will depart from Dubrovnik and travel to Trsteno to explore its magnificent arboretum, one of the oldest Renaissance gardens in Dalmatia, dating back to the 15th century. We will then continue to Ston and will explore the Ston historical ensemble (UNESCO Tentative List Site), including the Kastio fortress and the famous Ston walls, a monumental defensive system built by the Republic of Ragusa in the 14th-15th centuries, often called the ＂European Wall of China＂. After that, we will come to Split for accommodation.
Day 2. After staying in Split, we will spend the day exploring the city's historical center, a vibrant living museum wrapped around the 4th-century Diocletian's Palace (UNESCO World Heritage Site). We will visit the Cathedral of St. Domnius (originally Diocletian's mausoleum), stroll through the Golden Gate, the palace's monumental northern entrance, and soak in the atmosphere of this ancient imperial residence. We will stay another night in Split.
Day 3. After 2 nights in Split, we will travel to Trogir, a charming island-town (UNESCO World Heritage Site), and explore its beautifully preserved medieval core, the 13th-century Cathedral of St. Lawrence with its masterful portal, and the 15th-century Kamerlengo Fortress. We will then continue to see the Loreto monument, a 30-meter-tall votive statue of Our Lady of Loreto erected in 1960, and enjoy the stunning panoramic viewpoint. After that, we will come to Sibenik for accommodation.
Day 4. After staying in Sibenik, we will explore the sea-guardian St. Nicholas Fortress (UNESCO World Heritage Site), located at the entrance to the St. Anthony Channel, as well as the Barone Fortress and St. Michael Fortress (both UNESCO World Heritage Sites). We will then wander through Sibenik's atmospheric historical center and admire the magnificent Cathedral of St. James (UNESCO World Heritage Site), a masterpiece of Gothic and Renaissance architecture built entirely of stone between the 15th and 16th centuries. We will stay another night in Sibenik.
Day 5. After 2 nights in Sibenik, we will travel to Zadar to explore its fortified old town (UNESCO World Heritage Site), a city with roots stretching back to antiquity. We will wander through the historical center, experience the enchanting Sea Organ, an architectural sound installation that creates melodies from the waves, visit the 12th-century St. Anastasia's Cathedral, and stroll through the Roman Forum, the largest on the eastern Adriatic coast. We will stay in Zadar.
Day 6. After staying in Zadar, we will travel to the Nikola Tesla Memorial Centre in Smiljan, birthplace of the famous inventor, and explore the museum dedicated to Tesla's life and groundbreaking work in electricity and engineering. We will then continue to see the imposing Nehaj Fortress, a 16th-century square tower built by Croatian nobles to defend against Ottoman incursions, and then to Senj to explore its historical center and visit St. Mary's Cathedral. We will stay in Senj.
Day 7. After staying in Senj, we will travel to explore the beautifully preserved Renaissance Frankopan Castle Nova Kraljevica. We will then continue to see Trsat Castle, a medieval fortress overlooking Rijeka, famous for its sanctuary and panoramic views of the Kvarner Bay. We will then come to explore the Shrine of Mary of God of Trsat (Catholic), a major pilgrimage site since the 13th century, known for housing the Holy House of Loreto – according to tradition, angels carried it from Nazareth to Trsat in 1291 before it moved to Loreto, Italy. We will then travel to Buzet for accommodation.
Day 8. After staying in Buzet, we will explore this charming hilltop town, known as the ＂town of truffles＂, wandering through its historical center and enjoying the views over the Mirna River valley. We will then continue to see Motovun, one of Istria's most famous hilltop towns, and explore its cultural monument (UNESCO Tentative List Site) – the well-preserved medieval core with its Venetian Gothic buildings and town walls. We will then come to explore a local winery where we will enjoy a tasting of Istrian wines, particularly the white Malvazija variety, known for its fresh, floral character. We will stay in Motovun.
Day 9. After staying in Motovun, we will travel to Groznjan, a charming hilltop town known as the ＂town of artists＂, and explore its picturesque streets and the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary church. We will then continue to see Buje, another beautiful hilltop town with stunning views over the Istrian countryside. After that, we will come to Porec for accommodation.
Day 10. After staying in Porec, we will explore this charming coastal town on the Istrian peninsula. We will visit the Euphrasian Basilica complex (UNESCO World Heritage Site), a 6th-century Byzantine church famous for its stunning gold-ground mosaics depicting the Virgin Mary and saints. We will also explore the Euphrasian complex mosaic and wander through Porec's historical center with its Romanesque and Gothic buildings. We will stay in Porec.
Day 11. After staying in Porec, we will travel to Rovinj, one of Istria's most beautiful coastal towns. We will explore its historical center with its narrow cobbled streets and colorful houses, visit the hilltop St. Euphemia Church (Catholic), a Baroque masterpiece with a towering campanile, see Balbi's Arch, a 17th-century Venetian gate, and explore the Batana Ecomuseum (UNESCO World Heritage Site), dedicated to the traditional fishing boat ＂batana＂ and the maritime heritage of Rovinj. We will then continue to see Bale, a charming medieval hilltop town, to explore its well-preserved historical center. After that, we will come to Pula for accommodation.
Day 12. After staying in Pula, we will explore the city's historical center, including the Roman theater (ancient theatre), the Citadel Fortress on the hilltop, the Arch of the Sergii (a Roman triumphal arch from the 1st century BC), and the Istrian Olive Oil Museum, which showcases the centuries-old tradition of olive growing in the region. We will stay in Pula.
Day 13. After staying in Pula, we will travel to Kazun Park, a unique open-air museum featuring traditional Istrian dry-stone shelters called ＂kazuns＂. We will then continue to see Morosini Castle, a fortified Renaissance castle with a rich history, and to see the Defensive Tower in Zminj, a medieval fortified structure. We will then come to see the Sveti Petar u Sumi monastery, a Benedictine monastery founded in the 11th century and one of the best-preserved Romanesque monastic complexes in Istria. After that, we will come to Pazin for accommodation.
Day 14. After staying in Pazin, we will explore this dramatic hilltop town, the capital of Istria's interior. We will visit the Citadela historical landmark, the medieval castle that inspired Jules Verne's novel ＂Mathias Sandorf＂. We will then explore Jama Cave (Pazin Abyss), a 130-meter deep vertical sinkhole where the Pazincica River disappears underground. We will also visit St. Nicholas Church and enjoy a tasting at a local winery, sampling more of Istria's fine wines. We will stay in Pazin.
Day 15. After staying in Pazin, we will come to explore Belaj Winery, where we will enjoy a tasting of their excellent wines, continuing our Istrian wine journey. We will then continue to see the romantic ruins of Stara Susica Castle and to see Ogulin Castle (Castle of the Frankopans), a 16th-century fortress surrounded by a deep moat and connected to local legends. We will then visit the Ogulin Heritage museum and the charming Ivana's House of Fairy Tales, dedicated to the stories of Ivana Brlic-Mazuranic, Croatia's beloved children's author. We will stay in Ogulin.
Day 16. After staying in Ogulin, we will travel to Dubovac to explore Dubovac Fortress, a well-preserved hilltop castle overlooking the town of Karlovac. We will then travel to Karlovac to see Aquatika, the freshwater aquarium which showcases the diverse aquatic life of Croatia's rivers and lakes. Finally, we will arrive in Zagreb, where our memorable journey concludes.
tour destinations: Bale, Belaj, Buje, Buzet, Dubovac, Grožnjan, Karlovac, Loreto, Morosini, Motovun, Nehaj, Nova Kraljevica, Ozalj, Pazin, Petrapilosa, Poreč, Pula, Rijeka, Rovinj, Senj, Split, Stara Sušica, Ston, Sveti Petar u Šumi, Trogir, Trsat, Trsteno, Zadar, Zminj, Šibenik
Day 1. We depart from Dubrovnik and travel to Trsteno to explore its magnificent arboretum, one of the oldest Renaissance gardens in Dalmatia, dating back to the 15th century. We then continue to see the Kastio fortress in Ston and explore the Ston historical ensemble (UNESCO Tentative List Site), including the famous Ston walls, a monumental defensive system built by the Republic of Ragusa in the 14th-15th centuries, often called the ＂European Wall of China＂. After that, we will come to Split for accommodation.
Day 2. After staying in Split, we spend the day exploring the city's historical center, a vibrant living museum wrapped around the 4th-century Diocletian's Palace (UNESCO World Heritage Site). We visit the Cathedral of St. Domnius (originally Diocletian's mausoleum), stroll through the Golden Gate, the palace's monumental northern entrance, and soak in the atmosphere of this ancient imperial residence. We stay another night in Split.
Day 3. After 2 nights in Split, we travel to Trogir, a charming island-town (UNESCO World Heritage Site), and explore its beautifully preserved medieval core, the 13th-century Cathedral of St. Lawrence with its masterful portal, and the 15th-century Kamerlengo Fortress. We then continue to see the Loreto monument, a 30-meter-tall votive statue of Our Lady of Loreto erected in 1960, and enjoy the stunning panoramic viewpoint. After that, we will come to Sibenik for accommodation.
Day 4. After staying in Sibenik, we explore the sea-guardian St. Nicholas Fortress (UNESCO World Heritage Site), located at the entrance to the St. Anthony Channel, as well as the Barone Fortress and St. Michael Fortress (both UNESCO World Heritage Sites). We then wander through Sibenik's atmospheric historical center and admire the magnificent Cathedral of St. James (UNESCO World Heritage Site), a masterpiece of Gothic and Renaissance architecture built entirely of stone between the 15th and 16th centuries. We stay another night in Sibenik.
Day 5. After 2 nights in Sibenik, we travel to Zadar to explore its fortified old town (UNESCO World Heritage Site), a city with roots stretching back to antiquity. We wander through the historical center, experience the enchanting Sea Organ, an architectural sound installation that creates melodies from the waves, visit the 12th-century St. Anastasia's Cathedral, and stroll through the Roman Forum, the largest on the eastern Adriatic coast. We will stay in Zadar.
Day 6. After staying in Zadar, we travel to the Nikola Tesla Memorial Centre in Smiljan, birthplace of the famous inventor, and explore the museum dedicated to Tesla's life and groundbreaking work in electricity and engineering. We then continue to see the imposing Nehaj Fortress, a 16th-century square tower built by Croatian nobles to defend against Ottoman incursions, and then to Senj to explore its historical center and visit St. Mary's Cathedral. We will stay in Senj.
Day 7. After staying in Senj, we going to explore the beautifully preserved Renaissance Frankopan Castle Nova Kraljevica. We then continue to see Trsat Castle, a medieval fortress overlooking Rijeka, famous for its sanctuary and panoramic views of the Kvarner Bay. We then come to explore the Shrine of Mary of God of Trsat (Catholic), a major pilgrimage site since the 13th century, known for housing the Holy House of Loreto - according to tradition, angels carried it from Nazareth to Trsat in 1291 before it moved to Loreto, Italy. We climb the Petar Kruzic stairway, a 17th-century staircase with 538 steps built as a vow for the victims of the plague, and visit St. Vitus Cathedral (Catholic) in Rijeka, a unique Baroque rotunda built between 1638 and 1725. We will stay in Rijeka.
Day 8. After staying in Rijeka, we travel to The House of the Halubajski Bell Ringers, a unique museum showcasing the traditional carnival masks and bell-ringing custom of the Kastav region, recognized as intangible cultural heritage. We then continue to see Buzet, a charming hilltop town known as the ＂town of truffles＂, and wander through its historical center, enjoying the views over the Mirna River valley. We will stay in Buzet.
Day 9. After staying in Buzet, we come to explore Petrapilosa Castle, a medieval fortress with a turbulent history of wars and reconstructions. We then continue to see Motovun, one of Istria's most famous hilltop towns, and explore its cultural monument (UNESCO Tentative List Site) – the well-preserved medieval core with its Venetian Gothic buildings and town walls. We then come to explore a local winery where we enjoy a tasting of Istrian wines, particularly the white Malvazija variety, known for its fresh, floral character. We will stay in Motovun.
Day 10. After staying in Motovun, we travel to Groznjan, a charming hilltop town known as the ＂town of artists＂, and explore its picturesque streets and the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary church. We then continue to see Buje, another beautiful hilltop town with stunning views over the Istrian countryside. After that, we will come to Porec for accommodation.
Day 11. After staying in Porec, we explore this charming coastal town on the Istrian peninsula. We visit the Euphrasian Basilica complex (UNESCO World Heritage Site), a 6th-century Byzantine church famous for its stunning gold-ground mosaics depicting the Virgin Mary and saints. We also will wander through Porec's historical center with its Romanesque and Gothic buildings. We will stay in Porec.
Day 12. After staying in Porec, we travel to Rovinj, one of Istria's most beautiful coastal towns. We explore its historical center with its narrow cobbled streets and colorful houses, visit the hilltop St. Euphemia Church (Catholic), a Baroque masterpiece with a towering campanile, see Balbi's Arch, a 17th-century Venetian gate, and explore the Batana Ecomuseum (UNESCO World Heritage Site), dedicated to the traditional fishing boat ＂batana＂ and the maritime heritage of Rovinj. We then continue to see Bale, a charming medieval hilltop town, to explore its well-preserved historical center. After that, we will come to Pula for accommodation.
Day 13. After staying in Pula, we explore the city's historical center, including the ancient Roman theater, the Citadel Fortress on the hilltop, the Arch of the Sergii (a Roman triumphal arch from the 1st century BC), and the Istrian Olive Oil Museum, which showcases the centuries-old tradition of olive growing in the region. We will stay in Pula.
Day 14. After staying in Pula, we travel to Kazun Park, a unique open-air museum featuring traditional Istrian dry-stone shelters called ＂kazuns＂. We then continue to see Morosini Castle, a fortified Renaissance castle with a rich history, and to see the Defensive Tower in Zminj, a medieval fortified structure. We then come to see the Sveti Petar u Sumi monastery, a Benedictine monastery founded in the 11th century and one of the best-preserved Romanesque monastic complexes in Istria. After that, we will come to Pazin for accommodation.
Day 15. After staying in Pazin, we explore this dramatic hilltop town, the capital of Istria's interior. We visit the Citadela historical landmark, the medieval castle that inspired Jules Verne's novel ＂Mathias Sandorf＂. We then explore Jama Cave (Pazin Abyss), a 130-meter deep vertical sinkhole where the Pazincica River disappears underground. We also visit St. Nicholas Church and enjoy a tasting at a local winery, sampling more of Istria's fine wines. We will stay in Pazin.
Day 16. After staying in Pazin, we come to explore Belaj Winery, where we enjoy a tasting of their excellent wines, continuing our Istrian wine journey. We then continue to see the romantic ruins of Stara Susica Castle and then travel to Karlovac to see Aquatika, the freshwater aquarium which showcases the diverse aquatic life of Croatia's rivers and lakes. We will stay in Karlovac.
Day 17. After staying in Karlovac, we travel to Dubovac to explore Dubovac Fortress, a well-preserved hilltop castle overlooking the town of Karlovac. We then continue to see Ozalj Fortress, a medieval hilltop castle overlooking the Kupa River, once a seat of the powerful Zrinski and Frankopan noble families. Finally, we arrive in Zagreb, where our memorable journey concludes.
Explore 2 famous Balkans countries Croatia and Bosnia-Herzegovina. Extended Balkans round trip via UNESCO sites of Adriatic coast of Croatia and venetian towns of Dalmatian Riviera. Meet medieval towns, fortresses and monasteries of Bosnia-Herzegovina.
April 28, 2026 Ljubačke doline (Ljubacke doline), Bosnia and Herzegovina. Ethno village Ljubacke doline is designed and set as an open-air museum with the intention of showing the life of a community that used to inhabit this area, its traditional architecture, material culture, and furniture from the late 19th century and early 20th century.
March 25, 2026 Brauron, Greece. Brauron is an ancient archaeological site in eastern Attica, Greece, famous for its sanctuary dedicated to Artemis, the goddess of the hunt and nature. Brauron draws visitors with its well-preserved ruins and ties to ancient rituals. Tourists love exploring this peaceful archaeological park for a glimpse into classical Greek worship and daily life.
January 12, 2026 Ávila (Avila), Spain. Avila, a charming town in central Spain, is famous for its impressive medieval walls that surround the historic center. These stone fortifications are remarkably well-preserved, offering visitors a glimpse into the town's rich past and its strategic importance during the Middle Ages.
December 28, 2025 Baeza, Spain. Baeza, a picturesque town in Andalusia, southern Spain, is famous for its outstanding Renaissance architecture. Together with neighboring Ubeda, it was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003 under the name Renaissance Monumental Ensembles of Ubeda and Baeza, for its cultural significance.
December 6, 2025 Veria, Greece. Veria, also spelled Veroia or Beroea, is a city in Central Macedonia, northern Greece, known for its rich history, Byzantine architecture, and proximity to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Aigai (modern Vergina). Historically an important center since antiquity and the Byzantine era, it is built on the foothills of Mt. Vermion and crossed by the River Tripotamo. The city has numerous churches, and is nicknamed ＂Little Jerusalem＂ for its many religious sites.
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Monterrasol Travel Private tours has implemented health and hygiene protocols. Monterrasol Travel is the Safe Travels company.
