Known for beach, coastal town, historical center, marina, museum, catholic church
Nin, the oldest royal town in Croatia, was historically important as a center of a medieval Christian Bishopric. Up to the abolition and Latinization imposed by King Tomislav in the first half of the 10th century, Nin was the center of the autonomous Croatian branch of the Church. Nin was also the seat of the Princes of Dalmatia. The Bishop Gregory of Nin (Grgur Ninski) was an important figure in the 10th century ecclesiastical politics of Dalmatia.
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 Nin, 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 Nin, 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
Trsteno - Known for arboretum, fountain, garden, monument, viewpoint
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, catholic cathedral
Locals believe the name ＂Nin＂ evolved through seven different forms over three millennia. Ancient Greeks referred to the settlement as ＂Hemionoi＂ or ＂Ainona＂, while the Romans called it ＂Aenona＂ and later ＂Enona＂. The poet Petar Zoranic even suggested a mythological origin, claiming the town was founded by King Nino of Assyria, who named it after himself. Over centuries, ＂Nona＂ and ＂Elona＂ eventually transformed into the modern Croatian name ＂Nin＂.
Nin holds the prestigious title of being the oldest royal town in Croatia, with its roots stretching back over 3,000 years. It was once the permanent seat of several Croatian kings during the 9th century, making it the cradle of the Croatian medieval state. The first Croatian bishops were established here, including the famous Gregory of Nin, who fought to preserve the Croatian language in religious services. The town even served as a coronation site for early Croatian rulers.
Long before the Croatian kings, the area was inhabited by the Liburnians, an Illyrian tribe who established a settlement here as early as the 9th century BCE. The Romans later conquered the region, transforming Nin (then known as Aenona) into an important administrative and trading center. Roman influence left behind impressive public buildings, including a monumental temple and a well-organized urban plan that can still be traced today.
Under the rule of Venice, the town endured two complete demolitions in an attempt to create a buffer zone against Ottoman advances and protect the larger city of Zadar. Despite being deliberately destroyed in 1646 by Venetian forces, the town was later rebuilt and survived into the modern era. This resilience is a testament to the enduring spirit of the local community, which continues to welcome visitors today.
The most famous landmark in Nin is the Church of the Holy Cross, a tiny Pre-Romanesque chapel built during the 9th century. It is often called the ＂smallest cathedral in the world＂ because of its perfect proportions and historical importance. The church was ingeniously designed to function as a solar calendar, with light falling through specific windows at precise times of the year. Despite its modest size, this building stands as a symbol of early Croatian medieval architecture.
Near the church stands a towering bronze statue of Bishop Gregory of Nin, a religious leader famous for defending the use of the old Croatian language and Glagolitic script in church services. According to local custom, visitors rub the statue's large toe for good luck, and the metal is now polished to a shine from countless hands. The statue honors a key figure in Croatian cultural history who boldly challenged foreign dominance in religious affairs.
One of the most impressive archaeological sites in Nin is the ruined Roman temple, which was once the largest such structure on the entire eastern Adriatic coast. Built in the 1st century, it was dedicated to the Capitoline Triad of Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva, the three most important gods in the Roman state religion. Today, visitors can wander among the remaining columns and foundations, imagining the grandeur of ancient Aenona.
Beyond its history, Nin is famous for Queen's Beach, a rare Croatian treasure with over three kilometers of soft, golden sand. The beach is named after Queen Jelena, the wife of King Tomislav, who reportedly loved bathing in the warm, shallow lagoon waters. The bay is exceptionally safe for young swimmers, as the water remains shallow for hundreds of meters and there are no dangerous sea urchins. Adjacent to the beach, visitors can apply mineral-rich peloid mud known for its therapeutic effects on skin and joints.
Situated on a small hill just outside the town center, the Church of St. Nicholas dates from the 9th century and was built as a royal chapel. According to legend, several Croatian kings were crowned in this very building, including the famous King Tomislav. The church's isolated location, surrounded by fields and olive groves, makes it a peaceful spot for a short walk away from the busier old town streets.
In recent years, the wide, shallow lagoon surrounding Nin has become a premier destination for kiteboarding. The combination of steady summer winds, warm waters, and vast open spaces creates ideal conditions for both beginners and professional kiteboarders. Several local schools offer lessons and equipment rentals, making it easy for tourists to try this exciting sport in a safe, supervised environment.
The Solana Nin Salt Museum preserves a tradition of hand-harvesting sea salt that stretches back to Roman times, over 1,500 years ago. Visitors can tour the shallow evaporation basins, watch skilled workers using centuries-old techniques, and learn how sun and wind transform seawater into ＂white gold＂. The museum shop sells gourmet salt products and natural cosmetics derived from the mineral-rich waters of the lagoon.
In the lagoon, visitors can sometimes spot replicas of the ＂Condura Croatica＂, a type of Slavic boat used by early Croatian sailors and warriors in the 11th century. The original remains of these vessels were discovered in the Nin area and are displayed at the Museum of Nin Antiquities. These simple but seaworthy boats illustrate the maritime skills that allowed the early Croatian state to thrive along the Adriatic coast.
The Museum of Nin Antiquities houses an impressive collection of prehistoric, Illyrian, Roman, and early medieval artifacts discovered in the surrounding area. Highlights include original Condura Croatica boat remains, ancient pottery, jewelry, tools, and stone inscriptions that tell the story of life in Aenona over two thousand years ago. The Salt Museum is the town's other major cultural institution, offering a fascinating look at the salt harvesting traditions that have shaped local life and economy for fifteen centuries.
Nin enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. July and August are the warmest months, with average high temperatures around 28°C (82°F) and low humidity. Winters are relatively mild, with January temperatures averaging 8.6°C (47.5°F) for highs and 3.4°C (38.1°F) for lows. The Adriatic Sea is warmest in July and August, reaching a pleasant 25°C (77°F), which is perfect for swimming. Most rainfall occurs in late autumn and winter, while summers are generally sunny and dry.
Nin attracts visitors for its remarkable combination of three thousand years of history and completely natural beach experiences. The entire old town functions almost like an open-air museum, where Roman ruins, medieval churches, and ancient salt pans sit just steps from sandy swimming spots. Because the town is compact and flat, it is very easy to explore on foot, making it a stress-free day trip destination from nearby Zadar. The town was officially named a European Destination of Excellence in 2010, recognizing its commitment to sustainable and high-quality tourism.
Nin related tours
We at Monterrasol Travel welcome you to see Nin during multi-day small group car tour. Contact us if you would like to customize your tour to Nin.
We have developed several small group tours that visiting beautiful Nin. 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.
Day 1. We depart from Split and 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 2. 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 3. 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 4. 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 5. After 2 nights in Zadar, we travel to the Nikola Tesla Memorial Centre in Smiljan, 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 6. 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 which showcases the diverse aquatic life of Croatia's rivers and lakes. Finally, we arrive in Zagreb, where our memorable journey concludes.
tour destinations: Dubovac, Karlovac, Loreto, Nehaj, Nin, Nova Kraljevica, Rijeka, Senj, Stara Sušica, Trogir, Trsat, Vir, Zadar, Šibenik
Day 1. We depart from Split and 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 2. 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 3. 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 4. 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 5. After 2 nights in Zadar, we travel to the Nikola Tesla Memorial Centre in Smiljan, 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 Nehaj 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 6. After staying in Senj, we travel to Nova Kraljevica 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 church (Catholic), climb the Petar Kruzic stairway, and visit St. Vitus Cathedral (Catholic) in Rijeka. We will stay in Rijeka.
Day 7. After staying in Rijeka, we travel to Stara Susica to see the romantic ruins of Stara Susica Castle. We then continue to Dubovac to explore Dubovac Fortress, a well-preserved hilltop castle overlooking the town of Karlovac. Finally, we visit Karlovac to see Aquatika, the freshwater aquarium which showcases the diverse aquatic life of Croatia's rivers and lakes, and then arrive in Zagreb, where our memorable journey concludes.
tour destinations: Loreto, Nehaj, Nin, Nova Kraljevica, Pazin, Rijeka, Senj, Sveti Petar u Šumi, Trogir, Trsat, Vir, Zadar, Šibenik
Day 1. We depart from Split and 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 2. 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 3. 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 4. 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 5. After 2 nights in Zadar, we travel to the Nikola Tesla Memorial Centre in Smiljan, 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 Nehaj 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 6. After staying in Senj, we travel to Nova Kraljevica 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 walk 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 7. After staying in Rijeka, we travel to Pazin to explore this charming hilltop town, wandering through its historical center and enjoying the views over the surrounding Istrian landscape. We then continue to Sveti Petar u Sumi to visit its Benedictine monastery, founded in the 11th century and one of the best-preserved Romanesque monastic complexes in Istria. The monastery features a beautiful three-nave basilica with a central dome, a tranquil cloister with double columns, and a 15th-century bell tower. Finally, we arrive in Pula, 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, 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 which showcases the diverse aquatic life of Croatia's rivers and lakes. Finally, we arrive in Zagreb, where our memorable journey concludes.
tour destinations: Dubovac, Karlovac, Loreto, Nin, Nova Kraljevica, Ogulin, Ozalj, Pazin, Rijeka, Stara Sušica, Sveti Petar u Šumi, Trogir, Trsat, Vir, Zadar, Šibenik
Day 1. We depart from Split and 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 2. 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 3. 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 4. 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 5. After 2 nights in Zadar, we travel to the Nikola Tesla Memorial Centre in Smiljan, 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 6. After staying in Ogulin, we travel 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. We then continue to Karlovac to visit Aquatika, the freshwater aquarium which showcases the diverse aquatic life of Croatia's rivers and lakes. We will stay in Karlovac.
Day 7. 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 Stara Susica to see the romantic ruins of Stara Susica Castle, and to Nova Kraljevica to explore the beautifully preserved Renaissance Frankopan Castle Nova Kraljevica. After that, we will come to Rijeka for accommodation.
Day 8. After staying in Rijeka, we travel 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 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 stay another night in Rijeka.
Day 9. After 2 nights in Rijeka, we travel to Pazin to explore this charming hilltop town, wandering through its historical center and enjoying the views over the surrounding Istrian landscape. We then continue to Sveti Petar u Sumi to visit its Benedictine monastery, founded in the 11th century and one of the best-preserved Romanesque monastic complexes in Istria, featuring a beautiful three-nave basilica with a central dome, a tranquil cloister with double columns, and a 15th-century bell tower. Finally, we arrive in Pula, where our memorable journey concludes.
This our tour is not by the way called More nature less cities. We welcome you to this 10 days discovery tour with emphasis on nature of 2 countries: Croatia and Bosnia-Herzegovina. The tour running all seasons through scenic roads from Zagreb to Dubrovnik.
On the way from Zagreb down to coast we will visit Dubovac medieval fortress and see Rastoke village with river and picturesque waterfalls. The first Dalmatian town we'll meet is Venetian town Zadar, where need to see historical fortified center, gorgeous Catholic cathedral and unique creation called Sea Organ.Zadar was important Venetian town. From Zadar, we will come to see small town Nin with its museum of Salt, and explore wonderful landscapes and viewpoints of Vir peninsula.
In Sibenik, another Venetian town, we will see famous cathedral (UNESCO World Heritage site) and see its historical center. We will also explore famous Barone fortress. On the way to Split, we will see the panoramic view of coastal town Primosten from the place called Black Madonna (Statue of Our Lady Of Loreto).
In another one Venetian town, Trogir (UNESCO World Heritage site), we will walk its historical center, harbor, adore beautiful Catholic cathedral, and small fortress. On the way to Bosnia-Herzegovina we will visit Solin, a famous place mentioned in Bible, nowadays an archaeological place.
In Mostar (UNESCO World Heritage site) we will explore the historic center of Mostar and walk over famous Mostar bridge. The next day we will come to see historical town Blagaj with Dervish monastery (tekija) built around 1520, have refreshing walk in Kravica, a green area with cascade of waterfalls, and see why Medjugorje became important pilgrimage site.
After Mostar and on the way to Trebinje, we will see archaeological site Radimlja with carved gravestones (UNESCO World Heritage Site), climb passes of Ottoman hilly fortress Stolac and explore Vjetrenica cave (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
At the last day of the tour we will come to admire famous Tvrdos Orthodox monastery, where also we can taste awarded white, rose and red wines from own wine cellar. In Trebinje, we will see its small historical center, walk over Ottoman bridge, and before arrive to Dubrovnik we will have a dinner in local restaurant that serve Herzegovina food and drinks.
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.
Safe Travels
The 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.
