Krapina Zagorje County is a treasure trove for those who enjoy authentic Croatian culture, history, and outdoor adventures. Unlike more popular tourist spots, this region offers a mix of historic castles, traditional villages, and scenic landscapes that truly let you experience Croatia’s heart. We especially like the Veliki Tabor Castle and Kumrovec Museum with wine tasting experience for its blend of history, local flavor, and a fantastic wine tasting with regional specialties. Plus, with options like cycling, hiking, and even sport climbing lessons, there’s plenty to keep active travelers busy. Whether you’re after a culture or an adrenaline rush, this list covers the best tours and experiences to help you explore Zagorje in a meaningful way.
Quick Overview
This list includes a variety of tours, from castle visits and wine tastings to cycling adventures and sport climbing lessons. All are designed to showcase the region’s unique heritage and natural beauty. Ready to explore? Check out the options below for detailed descriptions that can help tailor your trip.
1. Veliki Tabor Castle, Kumrovec Museum with Wine Tasting
Explore the Zagorje region’s most iconic sights in style. This tour takes you to the imposing Veliki Tabor Castle, a 15th-century fortress perched on a hill offering sweeping views. You’ll learn about the castle’s medieval past and its role in Croatian history. Afterwards, you’ll visit the Open-Air Old Village Museum, a place where traditional houses and crafts come alive, giving a glimpse of rural life centuries ago. You’ll also get a chance to see Tito’s birth house, adding a touch of modern Croatian history to your trip.
The highlight? The wine tasting with regional specialties like štrukli, a beloved Croatian dish, paired with local wines. Lunch is included, and hotel pickup and drop-off from central Zagreb make this a hassle-free day trip. This tour is rated 5/5 from 1 review and offers excellent value at $206 per person. It suits history buffs and wine lovers looking for an immersive experience.
Bottom line: A well-rounded, historically rich tour that combines castles, culture, and food with ease. Ideal if you want a full Croatian Zagorje experience in one day.
$206 per person
2. Donja Stubica: Sport Climbing Lesson on Artificial Rock
For those craving an active, hands-on experience, this sport climbing lesson on a 12-meter artificial rock is perfect. Based in Donja Stubica, it’s a rare opportunity to learn the basics of sport climbing under professional guidance. The instructor will teach you how to use climbing gear, practice your balance and technique, and even how to abseil from the top.
What makes this experience stand out is its inclusivity—it’s suitable for both children and adults, and no previous climbing experience is necessary. The instructor’s tips help participants overcome the fear of heights, making it as much a confidence builder as a physical challenge. The tour costs $59 per person, offering a fun introduction to rock climbing with a focus on safety and technique.
Bottom line: Perfect for adventure seekers and families wanting a memorable outdoor activity that’s both educational and exhilarating.
$59 per person
3. From Tuheljske Toplice: Sutla River Full-Day Cycling Tour
This cycling tour covers about 56 miles (90 km) through the scenic Sutla River landscape. You’ll ride along both Croatian and Slovenian sides, past castles such as Mihanović and Veliki Tabor, and through charming villages. Highlights include visiting Terme Olimje and Podčetrtek tourist centers, as well as the ethnic village of Kumrovec, birthplace of Josip Broz Tito, offering a fascinating cultural stop.
The route allows you to explore natural beauty and historic sites in one day, making it a favorite for active travelers and history enthusiasts alike. Expect varied terrain, but the tour is suitable for cyclists with some experience. The cost is $101 per person, and it’s a wonderful way to see the countryside at a leisurely pace.
Bottom line: A comprehensive cycling experience that combines culture and nature—ideal for active travelers who want a full day outdoors.
$101 per person
4. Klanjec: Hiking on Cesargrad and the heritage of Klanjec
Step into Croatia’s mountain and historical heritage with this guided hike through Cesargrad and the surrounding Cesargradska Gora region. You’ll explore the ruins of the medieval fortress Cesargrad, built to defend the region, and enjoy panoramic views of the Sutla River canyon and the Slovenian border.
As you hike, you’ll learn about the fortress’s strategic importance and the local inhabitants who once called this rugged land home. The trail is accessible, and the scenery is stunning—perfect for those who prefer a moderate walk with cultural insights. The tour costs $51 per person, making it an affordable way to combine physical activity with history and nature.
Bottom line: An engaging hike for history lovers and nature fans who want to connect with Croatia’s past while enjoying spectacular views.
$51 per person
5. Marija Bistrica: E-bikes to the Wineries of Zlatar City
If you love cycling and wine, this tour is a hit. Starting from Marija Bistrica, you’ll ride e-bikes through picturesque villages and scenic landscapes of Hrvatsko Zagorje. The day includes visits to Winery Žerjavic and Orsag, both known for top-quality wines and regional specialties served with finger food.
The route takes you through sculpture parks and charming villages, providing plenty of opportunities to stop, taste, and learn about local wine-making traditions. The e-bikes make the ride accessible to most fitness levels, and the focus on local wineries makes this a flavorful experience. The price is $135 per person.
Bottom line: A relaxing, wine-themed cycling day ideal for those who appreciate good wine and scenic countryside without strenuous effort.
$135 per person
6. Marija Bistrica: Experience of cycling on country roads
This guided bike tour from Marija Bistrica offers a more traditional cycling experience through Hrvatsko Zagorje. Ride through village Vinski Vrh, visit a local ranch, and explore a traditional restaurant. The route offers a mix of cultural stops and scenic views, with a focus on experiencing the region’s rural charm.
The ride is suitable for moderate fitness levels and provides insights into local traditions and history. The tour costs $68 per person, making it an excellent choice for a half-day outing that balances activity and culture.
Bottom line: Perfect if you want a relaxed, culturally enriching ride with local flavor and scenic stops.
$68 per person
7. Oroslavje: Oroslavje and Stubičke Toplice by Bicycle
This e-bike adventure explores the countryside around Oroslavje. You’ll visit the old castle, the Equeastrian Center, and Lake Jarki. One highlight is the Kapelscak viewpoint, which offers a sweeping view of the Stubic valley.
Along the way, you’ll meet horses at the Equestrian Center and learn how the local landscape has shaped the region’s history. The route is accessible for most cyclists and provides a good mix of history, nature, and fun. At $68 per person, it offers excellent value for a half-day adventure.
Bottom line: A scenic and educational e-bike tour perfect for families and those interested in both nature and local heritage.
$68 per person
8. Tuheljske Toplice: Do Spomenika hrvatskoj majci pješačenjem
Join this light hike through the scenic countryside starting from Tuhelj, leading to the Monument to the Croatian Mother. The route is straightforward, with views of green fields and hills, and includes visits to Mihanović Castle and the Church of the Holy Kings.
This walk offers insights into local history and culture, making it suitable for those who prefer a relaxed, low-intensity outdoor experience. The tour costs $51 per person and is perfect for a peaceful day out.
Bottom line: A gentle, culturally rich walk suited for families or anyone who enjoys easy hikes with meaningful sights.
$51 per person
9. Tuheljske Toplice: Klanjec Wineries Tour by E-Bike
This e-bike tour combines Croatia’s wine culture and history. Starting from Tuheljske Toplice, you’ll visit Novi Dvori Klanječki, explore Petrišić and Sever wineries, and learn the stories of the Erdody family and the Croatian national anthem.
The route includes stops at historic sites like Mihanović Castle and scenic landscape views. Tasting the local wines paired with finger foods, you’ll sample some of the region’s best. The tour is priced at $135 per person and is ideal for wine enthusiasts with a sense of adventure.
Bottom line: A well-rounded combination of culture, history, and excellent local wines in a scenic setting.
$135 per person
10. Tuheljske Toplice: Monuments of “Biser Zagorje” by Bicycle
This 38 km bike tour showcases the most important cultural monuments of Hrvatsko Zagorje, including Antun Augustinčić Gallery, Franciscan Monastery, and the Church of the Annunciation in Klanjec. The route includes on-road cycling on scenic country roads, with a total ascent of 380 meters.
The tour is available with MTB or E-bike rentals and is best suited for those with some cycling experience. It offers a rich cultural itinerary paired with beautiful landscapes, making it a satisfying full-day ride. Cost is $68 per person.
Bottom line: For travelers who want to combine cultural exploration and active cycling, this tour offers a comprehensive look at Zagorje’s heritage.
$68 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your adventure in Krapina Zagorje, consider your interests, fitness level, and time. If you love history and wine, the Veliki Tabor Castle and Kumrovec Museum or the Wine Tours by E-bike are excellent options. For outdoor enthusiasts, the cycling and hiking tours provide beautiful scenery and physical activity. Families or beginners might prefer the sport climbing lesson or the easy hikes.
Booking early is recommended, especially in high season, to secure your preferred date. Think about whether you want a full-day adventure or a shorter experience, and match your choice accordingly. For example, the full-day cycling tours are perfect for those with a couple of days to explore, while the hiking and climbing options cater to shorter visits.
Final Thoughts
Krapina Zagorje offers a diverse set of tours and experiences that suit a variety of travelers. Whether you’re after a historical castle visit, a scenic bike ride, or an active climbing lesson, you’ll find something to match your interests. For history lovers, the Veliki Tabor Castle combined with wine tasting is a classic. If outdoor adventure is more your style, the sport climbing or full-day cycling tours provide excitement and stunning views.
For a more relaxed cultural day, the church hike or wine tours are perfect. Remember to book early, especially if you’re traveling during peak times, to ensure you don’t miss out on these authentic Croatian experiences. No matter your preference, Krapina Zagorje promises memorable moments with its rich mix of history, nature, and local flavor.
Enjoy your trip—Croatia’s Zagorje region is waiting to be explored!