Zagreb might be Croatia’s capital, but it’s also a surprisingly good place to explore wine culture. Thanks to its proximity to renowned wine regions like Plešivica and Plesivica, as well as charming local wineries, Zagreb offers a variety of engaging wine tours for every taste and budget. We especially like the Painting Party at Art Bottega for its relaxed, creative vibe—perfect if you want to sip wine and unleash your inner artist, regardless of skill level. For a full day of castle-hopping and vineyard tasting, the Fairytale Castle & Wine Tasting & Lunch combines history with exquisite Croatian wines. Or, if private experiences are more your style, the Private Wine Tour from Zagreb takes you behind the scenes at two local wineries and includes a charming stop in Samobor. These tours highlight just how versatile Zagreb’s wine scene can be.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a broad spectrum of wine experiences in Zagreb, including interactive wine & paint nights, full-day castle and vineyard visits, private wine tastings, and hedonistic food & wine outings. Whether you’re after a casual evening activity or a comprehensive day trip, each one offers something special. Read on for the details that help you pick the perfect match.
1. Painting party at Art Bottega – Paint & Wine Studio in Zagreb
Channel your inner artist at this engaging wine and painting session in Zagreb. For approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, you’ll settle into a cozy studio where all painting materials are provided. The unique twist? You get to sip bottomless wine while creating your masterpiece, making it a perfect activity for friends, couples, or even solo travelers looking for a laid-back artistic escape.
What makes this tour stand out is its inclusiveness—no prior painting experience needed. The studio’s instructors guide you step-by-step, ensuring everyone leaves with a finished work of art. The reviews reflect consistent satisfaction, with guests praising the friendly hosts and the fun, laughter-filled atmosphere. A typical experience includes translating Croatian instructions into English, making it accessible for international visitors. The $44.36 price is reasonable considering the all-inclusive nature and lively social vibe.
Bottom Line: If you want a relaxed, fun night that combines creativity with wine, this is your best choice. It’s ideal for small groups or couples who like to laugh and learn something new.
2. Fairytale Castle & Wine Tasting & Lunch
This full-day tour immerses you in Croatian medieval scenery, castles, and local wines. For around $234, you’ll visit Trakoscan Castle, explore Sveti Kriz Zacretje Castle, and enjoy a wine tasting session at a family-run winery. The tour includes round-trip transportation from your Zagreb accommodation, making it a hassle-free way to explore the countryside.
What makes this tour special is the combination of history and tasting. The castle visit is thorough—covering its 13th-century origins, the 19th-century neo-Gothic reconstruction, and its lakeside setting. The winery visit offers a cellar tasting of five different Croatian wines, paired with local cheese and delicacies. Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guide and the delicious food. The tour’s length and rich itinerary make it a good value, especially as all entrance and tasting fees are included.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history lovers and wine enthusiasts who want a comprehensive day trip without organizing transport. It’s especially suited for those wanting to combine cultural sights with authentic wine tasting.
3. Private Wine Tour from Zagreb: Two Local Wineries & Samobor
For around $287, this private tour offers a personalized experience, ideal for those who want to explore Zagreb’s lesser-known vineyards. Starting with a drive to Plesivica, known as Zagreb’s “vineyard,” the tour visits two wineries where you’ll meet local winemakers and taste their best wines. It also includes a stop in Samobor, a traditional Croatian town famous for its architecture and kremšnita (custard cake).
What sets this tour apart is its customized approach—your guide tailors the experience to your interests, with ample time to chat with winemakers and enjoy local delicacies like cheese and ham. Reviews mention the guide’s friendliness and the organic wines, adding to the authentic experience. It’s a good investment for wine lovers who want a deeper dive into Croatian winemaking and local culture.
Bottom Line: If you’re into intimate, educational tastings and local food, this private trip hits the sweet spot. It’s best suited for those who appreciate personalized service and want to avoid crowded tours.
4. Private hedonistic food and wine experience from Zagreb
This exclusive private day trip combines culinary delights with wine at two carefully chosen locations. For about $312, you’ll explore Samobor, known for its kremšnita, and then head to a family-run winery in Plešivica. Your driver-guide, a true food and wine enthusiast, ensures you visit only the best spots.
What makes this tour exceptional is its focus on local gastronomy and wine pairing—including tried-and-true Croatian dishes like štrukli and specialty wines. Guests mention the excellent communication and the relaxed, indulgent atmosphere. The experience is tailored, making it a good fit for food connoisseurs who want to indulge in Croatia’s flavors. Its long duration allows for a leisurely exploration without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies who want a private, upscale experience with a focus on tasting Croatia’s best. It’s ideal for couples or small groups looking for a luxurious day.
5. Castle & Wine Tasting – Private Day Trip from Zagreb
This tour balances history with wine tasting. For about $275, you visit the most preserved castle in Croatia, Trakoscan, and then enjoy a wine tasting at a local winery. The round-trip transport from your hotel makes it convenient, and all entry and tasting fees are included.
Guests love the seamless experience—the castle, built in the late 13th century, features a collection of paintings, furniture, and weapons, plus stunning lakeside views. The winery offers a chance to sample local wines paired with bread and cheese. Reviewers note the driver’s professionalism and the quality of the castle’s exhibits. The tour is a great mix of culture and wine—ideal if you want a well-rounded day.
Bottom Line: Best suited for history lovers and wine fans who want a private, customized experience without the fuss. It’s especially good for those wanting to combine sightseeing with tasting.
6. Zadar, Šibenik: olive oil, wine & food tasting, Self Drive
While not strictly in Zagreb, this luxury self-drive experience offers a taste of Dalmatian olive oil, wine, and local food. For just $29 per person, you get an intimate look at an olive grove and mill, with tastings of award-winning oils and Croatian wines.
Guests enjoy learning about the art of sensory tasting and pairing oils with local bites, making this more than just a wine experience. It’s a hands-on, educational tour with a relaxed pace. The reviews mention the warm hospitality and high-quality products, making it a great add-on if you’re exploring Croatia’s southern coast later.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers interested in both wine and olive oils, especially if you’re exploring Dalmatia after Zagreb. The self-drive format offers flexibility.
7. Private Wine Road Day Tour from Zagreb
This full-day private tour for about $226 offers a taste of Croatia’s wine culture and scenic hills. It combines a visit to Plesivica’s vineyards with a charming stop in Samobor, known for its culinary traditions. The tour also visits wineries such as Tomac, Sember Braje, or Jagunic, including a chance to taste sparkling wines made by traditional methods.
What makes this tour appealing is its personalized nature—the guide helps tailor the experience, and all logistics are handled. Guests mention the beauty of the hills and the quality of the wines—especially the famous Cremeschnitte in Samobor. This tour suits those seeking a relaxed but comprehensive wine day, with a taste of Croatian culture.
Bottom Line: Great for wine enthusiasts wanting a private, flexible experience with a focus on quality wineries and scenic countryside.
8. Istria in One Day: Private Tour with Wine & Oil Tasting
Though technically outside Zagreb, this private full-day tour is worth mentioning for its Istrian wine and olive oil tastings. Starting with Zagreb, it visits Opatija, Pula, and Rovinj, offering a scenic drive through Croatian coastal culture. The tour includes tastings at local wineries and olive oil producers near Rovinj, giving you a full taste of Istria’s culinary riches.
Unique for its combination of historic towns and tastings, it’s perfect if you have a day to spare and want a comprehensive experience of Croatia’s coastal region. The review notes the excellent quality of wines and oils, making it a worthwhile splurge.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a luxurious, all-in-one day trip that combines history, scenery, and tastings from Croatia’s famous Istrian peninsula.
$386 per person
9. Zagreb: Hrastje Plešivičko Wine Tasting Day Trip
This more budget-friendly day trip offers a taste of Hrastje Plešivičko’s wine region. For around $176, you’ll visit a family-owned winery, taste a variety of Croatian wines like Graševina and Chardonnay, and learn about the winemaking process.
Guests emphasize the scenic vineyard views and the personal story behind the wines. It’s a straightforward, no-fuss option for those interested in Croatian wines without a full-day program. The reviewer mentions the variety of wines and the friendly guide.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those on a budget who want a focused, authentic tasting experience close to Zagreb.
10. From Zagreb: Castle & Wine Private Day Trip
This private tour offers a relaxed exploration of Croatia’s castle and vineyard traditions. You’ll visit Trakošćan Castle and enjoy a wine tasting in the surrounding region. With a private guide, the experience is flexible and personalized, perfect for those who want to avoid crowds.
Guests mention the scenic countryside and the well-preserved castle, along with tastings of regional wines. The trip is suited for travelers who want a blend of history and wine in a private setting, making it a memorable day outside the city.
Bottom Line: Great for history buffs and those seeking a private, tailored experience with authentic Croatian wine and castles.
$259 per person
How to Choose the Best Zagreb Wine Tour for You
When selecting a wine tour in Zagreb, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. If you want an easy, social activity, the Painting Party offers fun and wine without fuss. For a full immersion into Croatia’s castles and vineyards, the Fairytale Castle & Wine Tasting is a fantastic choice. If privacy and personalized touches are your priority, the Private Wine Tour or Hedonistic Food & Wine Experience deliver tailored, intimate adventures.
For those with limited time, the Castle & Wine Private Day Trip offers a succinct but rich experience. Consider your tastes—whether you prefer interactive nights, cultural castles, private tastings, or scenic drives—and book early, especially in peak season.
Zagreb’s wine tours range from creative and casual to luxurious and private, making it easy to find a match. Whether you’re after a lively night of painting and sipping or a relaxed exploration of historic castles and vineyards, there’s something here to suit your style—and your palate. Happy tasting!