Pula, Croatia
Monterrasol Travel small group minivan tour.
Small group tour package 14 days in CroatiaExplore Istria in 14 days in-depth cultural circle tour from Zagreb. Medieval hilltop towns, fortresses, monasteries, famous coastal towns.tour ID: #644
all seasons tour
Tour summaryMedieval hilltop towns, fortresses, monasteries, famous coastal towns. Get a seat on Monterrasol Travel small group minivan tour. This page describes details of the multi-day small group car tour #644 offered by Monterrasol Travel. We, Monterrasol Travel, are an independent tour operator specialized in cultural and destination tourism. This sightseeing tour has been developed by Monterrasol Travel for small groups travelers based on our own experiences and belongs to the group of car tours with pre-designed itineraries. If you like this tour but you would like to change something, please do not hesitate to contact us and mention the ID number of this tour: #644. The custom itinerary will cost you nothing, it's free from our side. The tour will start and finish in Zagreb, Croatia, and will take 14 days (13 nights). During this tour you will visit such places and attractions as Dubovac, Nehaj, Senj, Nova Kraljevica, Trsat, Rijeka, Buzet, Petrapilosa, Motovun, Grožnjan (Groznjan), Buje, Umag, Poreč (Porec), Baredine, Morosini, Rovinj, Pula, Labin, Bale, Zminj, Sveti Petar u Šumi (Sveti Petar u Sumi), Pazin, Stara Sušica (Stara Susica), Ogulin, Karlovac, Ozalj, located in Croatia. Overall, with this tour you will visit 3 UNESCO World Heritage sites and 1 site from the UNESCO Tentative List (sites that were submitted to the World Heritage Committee, and are awaiting to consider for nomination, and therefore suitable for inscription on the World Heritage List). Additional informationWe will pick you up at any hotel or place, in or around Zagreb. Drop-off can be at the same place as pick-up or, upon request, in another location. We, at Monterrasol Travel, practice the Slow Tourism philosophy. That means that we work our tours at a gentle pace with no rush, allowing our clients to have a more authentic experience and a true exploration of each destination that features in our itineraries. Our tour prices include accommodation in 3-star hotels, which are usually not near historical centers with pedestrian streets. If you would like better accommodation in terms of location and quality level, please contact us. This small group tour is available for solo travelers as well. Please contact us for details. We provide for this tour a special discount for pensioners (seniors citizens). We recommend you consider traveling off-season. Advantages of traveling off-season. Photo galleryPhoto gallery of attractions involved in this tour. This tour starts from €5,128 Tour descriptionIntroductionJoin us on a 14-day in-depth cultural exploration circle tour from Zagreb to Istria and back, crafted for adults, pensioners, and people interested in history who love history, local food and drinks, and scenic roads in a relaxing, easy way with no rush. This year-round journey takes you from the continental capital through the mountainous hinterland to the enchanting peninsula of Istria, visiting medieval hilltop towns, coastal gems, fortresses, monasteries, UNESCO sites, and hidden corners of this beautiful region. From the Dubovac Fortress in Karlovac and the Nehaj Fortress in Senj to the Trsat Castle overlooking Rijeka, from the unique Halubajski Bell Ringers museum to the hilltop towns of Buzet, Motovun, Groznjan, and Buje, from the Euphrasian Basilica in Porec to the dramatic Baredine cave, from the romantic coastal town of Rovinj to the Roman amphitheater in Pula, from the olive oil museum to the Pazin cave, and finally to the fairy-tale castles of Stara Susica and Ogulin – every day brings a new discovery. Experience history and local food and drinks at their best, all on scenic roads at a gentle pace with no rush. Day after day descriptionDay 1. We depart from Zagreb and travel to Karlovac to explore Dubovac Fortress, a well-preserved hilltop castle overlooking the town. We then continue to Nehaj to see the imposing Nehaj Fortress, a 16th-century square massive tower built by Croatian nobles to defend against Ottoman incursions. We then proceed to Senj, a charming coastal town, to explore its historical center and visit St. Mary's Cathedral. We will stay in Senj. Day 2. After staying in Senj, we travel to explore the beautifully preserved Renaissance Frankopan Castle Nova Kraljevica. We then continue to Trsat to see Trsat Castle, a medieval fortress overlooking Rijeka, famous for its sanctuary and panoramic views of the Kvarner Bay. We then 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 use 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 3. 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 Buzet to 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 stay in Buzet. Day 4. After staying in Buzet, we travel to explore Petrapilosa Castle, a medieval fortress with a turbulent history of wars and reconstructions. We then continue to Motovun, one of Istria's most famous hilltop towns, to explore its cultural monument (UNESCO Tentative List Site) – the well-preserved medieval core with its Venetian Gothic buildings and town walls. We then visit 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 5. 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 Buje, another beautiful hilltop town with stunning views over the Istrian countryside. After that, we will come to Umag for accommodation. Day 6. After staying in Umag, we travel to Porec, a charming coastal town on the Istrian peninsula. We explore 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 7. After staying in Porec, we will come to explore the Baredine Cave, a fascinating underground world of stalactites, stalagmites, and underground lakes. We then continue to Morosini to see Morosini Castle, a fortified Renaissance castle with a rich history. After that, we will return to Porec for accommodation. Day 8. After 2 nights 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, and see Balbi's Arch, a 17th-century Venetian gate.After that, we will come to Pula for accommodation. Day 9. After staying in Pula, we explore the city's historical center, including the 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 10. After staying in Pula, we travel to Labin, a charming hilltop town in eastern Istria. We explore the Gorica historical center, walk through St. Flora Gate, admire the Scampicchio Palace, and visit the Matthias Flacius Illyricus museum, dedicated to the famous Reformation theologian born in Labin. After that, we will return to Pula for accommodation. Day 11. After 3 nights in Pula, we travel to Kazun Park, a unique open-air museum featuring traditional Istrian dry-stone shelters called 'kazuns'. We then continue to Bale, a charming medieval hilltop town, to explore its well-preserved historical center, and after come to Zminj to see its Defensive Tower, a medieval fortified structure. We then visit Sveti Petar u Sumi to see its 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 12. 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 13. After staying in Pazin, we travel to Stara Susica to see the romantic ruins of Stara Susica Castle. 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 Heritage Ethnographic museum and the charming House of Fairy Tales, dedicated to the stories of Ivana Brlic-Mazuranic, Croatia's beloved children's author. We will stay in Ogulin. Day 14. After staying in Ogulin, we travel to Karlovac to explore Aquatika, the freshwater aquarium which showcases the diverse aquatic life of Croatia's rivers and lakes. We then continue to Ozalj to explore Ozalj Fortress, a medieval hilltop castle overlooking the Kupa River, once a seat of the powerful Zrinski and Frankopan noble families. Finally, we return to Zagreb, where our memorable journey concludes. ConclusionThis 14-day in-depth cultural exploration delivers a wonderfully relaxed immersion into the historical, cultural, and natural splendors of Istria and Central Croatia, enriched by tastings of local Malvazija wine and visits to olive oil museums. We warmly invite you to travel with us – at a gentle pace, without hurry – to experience the timeless allure of Senj, Rijeka, Buzet, Motovun, Groznjan, Porec, Rovinj, Pula, Labin, Pazin, Ogulin, and their enchanting surroundings. This tour is provided by a company specialized in Croatia. Border crossing for this tripThis tour does not require border crossing. Money and paymentsIn each country of your trip you can use main credit and debit cards. You can use ATM to withdrawal cash or pay at purchase point with card. More information on currencies, payments, and use cards you can read on this our page: On the trip: currencies, payments, card use. Last reviewed: 4 June 2026 Tour itineraryTour starts in: Zagreb, Croatia day 1: travel to Dubovac, visit Dubovac fortress, travel to Nehaj to see Nehaj fortress, travel to Senj to see Senj coastal town, visit St Mary cathedral in Senj; accommodation in Senj Tour finishes in: Zagreb, Croatia Planned distance of this tour: 976 km What is a good itinerary for a multi-day tourHow to understand if this itinerary is good for you? Read our advice: what is a good itinerary for a multi-day tour. If you like this small group tour and itinerary but you would like to change something, please do not hesitate to contact us and mention the ID number of this tour: #644. We do not charge for development a custom car tour itinerary, it will cost you nothing. We will be glad to discuss with you the details of your future trip and plan it following your ideas and wishes. Visited places during the tourOur tour will pass several towns and places along the route. Each town and place has something to offer from a tourist's point of view. We will stop in each place and explore its attractions. The exact attractions for each place or town can be seen in the tour's itinerary. Here is the list of places visited during this tour, in the order they appear in the itinerary. Dubovac, CroatiaKnown for castle, museum, viewpoint Perched on a wooded hill above Karlovac town, the Dubovac Castle, former feudal stronghold, is a medieval gem blending history with panoramic views. Its strategic position and preserved architecture make it a key cultural landmark. Visitors explore its towers, museum, and serene surroundings, stepping into Croatia's storied past. Nehaj, CroatiaKnown for fortress, museum, viewpoint Nehaj Fortress, completed in 1558, incorporated defensive innovations of its time. The structure rises impressively from the hillside of town Senj, creating an imposing silhouette visible from miles around. During the same period that Christopher Columbus was discovering America, Senj was already a center of Croatian literature and publishing. Senj, CroatiaKnown for coastal town, fortress, gate Senj is an old coastal town situated in the northern part of the Adriatic. Senj is one of the oldest settlements on the Croatian coast and it lies dramatically at the foot of two mountains. The most iconic landmark of Senj is the Nehaj Fortress from 1558, which sits atop a hill and dominates the town's skyline. Nova Kraljevica, CroatiaKnown for castle Trsat, CroatiaKnown for castle, viewpoint, catholic basilica Trsat is an eastern hillside district of Rijeka, Croatia's principal seaport, dramatically positioned above the left bank of the Rjecina River near its mouth into the Kvarner Bay. This elevated neighborhood sits approximately 138 meters above sea level, dominating the city skyline and offering commanding views of the port and the surrounding Adriatic coastline. Rijeka, CroatiaKnown for coastal town, fortress, historical center, museum (natural history), seaport, stairway, catholic basilica, catholic cathedral, catholic pilgrimage center Buzet, CroatiaKnown for brewery, distillery, hilltop town, historical center, medieval old town, museum (history), palace, viewpoint, waterfall Buzet is a charming medieval town perched on a hilltop in the northern part of the Istrian peninsula in western Croatia, former Roman outpost Piquentum. Buzet is known as the ＂City of Truffles＂ or ＂Truffle Capital of Croatia＂. Buzet provide unique combination of medieval hilltop charm, world-class gastronomy, and authentic cultural experiences. Petrapilosa, CroatiaKnown for castle, ruines Motovun, CroatiaKnown for gate, hilltop town, medieval old town, viewpoint, walls, winery + wine tasting, catholic church; cultural monument is a UNESCO Tentative List Site Motovun is a captivating medieval village perched high on a hill in central Istria, western Croatia, approximately 270 metres above sea level. It dominates the verdant valley of the Mirna River, surrounded by rolling vineyards and the famous Motovun Forest. This breathtaking setting, reminiscent of the iconic landscapes of Tuscany, makes it a prime destination for travellers seeking authentic charm. Grožnjan (Groznjan), CroatiaKnown for gate, hilltop town, historical center, viewpoint, walls, catholic church Groznjan is a stunning medieval hilltop settlement perched at around 230 metres above sea level in the northwestern part of the Istrian peninsula. Its dominant position offers breathtaking panoramic views over the surrounding vineyards, olive groves, and the distant Adriatic Sea. From 1965, the town experienced the Artistic Renaissance, and was officially declared the ＂Town of Artists＂, making it one of the most significant artistic hubs in Croatia. Buje, CroatiaKnown for fortress, hilltop town, museum (ethnographic), walls, catholic church Buje is a picturesque hilltop town in the northwestern part of the Istrian peninsula in Croatia. The historic heart of Buje is a fine example of medieval architecture with strong Venetian Renaissance influences. The town offers a perfect counterpoint to the busier coastal resorts, providing a quiet, culturally rich escape in the heart of Istria. Umag, CroatiaKnown for coastal town Poreč (Porec), CroatiaKnown 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 Poreč is almost 2,000 years old town on the western coast of the Istrian peninsula. Its major landmark is the 6th-century Euphrasian Basilica, which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The coast of Poreč has been one of the most visited tourist destination in Croatia. Baredine, CroatiaKnown for cave, museum Baredine Cave is a stunning natural monument located in the Istrian peninsula in Croatia, about 6 kilometers of the coastal town of Poreč. The guided tour of Baredine Cave lasts approximately 40 minutes and takes visitors along a 300-meter-long pathway descending to 60 meters below the ground. Morosini, CroatiaKnown for castle, fortress, museum The Morosini-Grimani Castle from the 13th century is a Croatian historical gem due to an impressive blend of medieval architecture with distinct Renaissance features, makes it a photographer's paradise and an architectural enthusiast's delight. Rovinj, CroatiaKnown for coastal town, gate, historical center, marina, museum (heritage), promenade, viewpoint, walls, catholic church; museum (heritage) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site Rovinj is a stunning coastal city located on the western coast of the Istrian peninsula in Croatia. This picturesque settlement, once an island, is now a coastal gem connected to the mainland and is one of the most popular tourist resorts on the Adriatic coast, known for its scenic coastline and pristine forests. Pula, CroatiaKnown for ancient theatre, fortress, gate, historical landmark, museum (olive and olive oil) Pula is a captivating coastal city situated at the southern tip of the Istrian peninsula in western Croatia, often called the ＂Gateway to Istria,＂ serving as the perfect entry point to explore a region famous for its beautiful coastline, turquoise sea, and charming hinterland. Main attractions of Pula are: Pula Arena, one of the six largest and best-preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world; the Arch of the Sergii, a Roman monument; 17th-century Venetian fortress known as Citadel; City Walls and Roman Gates; Zerostrasse (Underground Tunnels) from the Austro-Hungarian period. Labin, CroatiaKnown for gate, hilltop town, historical center, medieval old town, museum (ecclesiastical), museum (National), museum (open-air), palace, viewpoint Labin is a captivating medieval town perched on a hill 230 meters above the eastern coast of the Istrian peninsula in western Croatia. The town lies approximately 3 kilometers inland from the Adriatic Sea, and its elevated position provides spectacular views over the Kvarner Bay and the nearby island of Cres. Bale, CroatiaKnown for cave, historical center, palace, catholic church Bale is a charming medieval village located in the heart of the Istrian peninsula, approximately halfway between the coastal cities of Pula and Rovinj. Bale offers an intimate and authentic glimpse into traditional Istrian life, with its compact historic core, with its cobblestone streets and stone houses, feels like a living museum. Zminj, CroatiaKnown for historical landmark Sveti Petar u Šumi (Sveti Petar u Sumi), CroatiaKnown for catholic monastery Pazin, CroatiaKnown for castle, cave, museum (ethnographic), tourist attraction, waterfall, catholic church Pazin is a charming historical town situated in the central part of the Istrian peninsula in western Croatia. Pazin occupies a strategic inland position, which has earned it the well-deserved nickname ＂the heart of Istria＂. The magnificent medieval castle is undisputed crown jewel of Pazin, and is the largest and best-preserved fortress in all of Istria. Stara Sušica (Stara Susica), CroatiaKnown for castle Ogulin, CroatiaKnown for castle, cave, museum (heritage) Ogulin is a historic town nestled in the central part of Croatia. Ogulin became a significant military stronghold against Ottoman expansion during the sixteenth century. The most iconic landmark of Ogulin is the Frankopan fortress, a Renaissance castle from the early sixteenth century that still dominates the town center. Karlovac, CroatiaKnown for aquarium, brewery, castle Ozalj, CroatiaKnown for fortress, river Tour mapTour starts in: Zagreb, Croatia 
day 1: Dubovac fortress; Nehaj fortress; Senj coastal town; Senj, St Mary cathedral; accommodation in Senj Tour finishes in: Zagreb, Croatia Planned distance of this tour: 976 km Availability of this tourPlease check below for the availability of this small group tour for a specific month and year. In addition, for this tour, a 30 days cut-off period is in effect. Of course, you are always welcome to contact us with questions about availability. Check availability for specific period:
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Price from€ 5,128
The min amount of people in this tour: 2 This small group tour is available all year round. SRS means single room supplement. Prices above depend on the season. Read our pricing policy. Maybe you want?What the tour includes• transport with driver • transportation in car with air conditioner • the car is minivan by default • company's tour guide • English spoken driver and tour guide • tour guide all the time with you • accommodation in 3-star hotels or pensions • accommodation with breakfast only What the tour does not include• lunch and dinner • accommodation in single rooms • hotel tourist tax • professional tour guide • entry fees and tickets • flights tickets • ferry tickets • travel insurance • country visas Safe TravelsThe Safe Travels stamp allows travelers to recognize destination companies around the world that have implemented health and hygiene protocols that are aligned with WTTC's Global Safe Travels Protocols. Monterrasol Travel Small group tours has implemented health and hygiene protocols. Monterrasol Travel is the Safe Travels company.  |
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