History of Croatia escorted small group tour

On this small group tour of Croatia, you can expect to experience the sights that make this country so unique while also discovering its rich and complex history. Over 19 days, we explore Croatia with the services of local guides. Starting in Zagreb, the capital city, we visit Porec on the coast of the Istrian Peninsula, the island of Cres and the crystal clear waters of Plitvice Lakes National Park. We also explore the Roman and Venetian ruins of Zadar on the Dalmatian coast, Trogir's Renaissance and Romanesque buildings, Hvar's hilltop fortress, the gorgeous old town on the island of Korcula and end our trip in stunning Dubrovnik. Many of these must-see attractions are recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The History of Croatia

As we make our way through the diverse villages and cities of Croatia, we begin to build up an understanding of its intricate history, from ancient times to now.

The area we now know as Croatia has been inhabited since the Palaeolithic Age. This was confirmed when the remains of a Neanderthal man, thought to be 130,000 years old, were discovered in a small town outside of Zagreb called Krapina at the beginning of the 20th century. The Neanderthal became known as Krapina Man and thanks to those bones, palaeontologists have been able to conduct important research about human development. 

Recorded history begins much later than Krapina Man, around 1200 B.C, when the Illyrians migrated to the region. By 400 B.C. the Greeks began colonising the Adriatic coast and while the Illyrians traded with the Greeks, conflict arose when the Illyrians tried to form an independent state. In 229 B.C. the Greeks, troubled by this, enlisted the help of the Romans which marked the beginning of a series of war which would see the Illyrians defeated and the region converted to a Roman province.

The Romans ruled for 500 years, building roads that brought trade, goods and Christianity to the region. Following the decline of the Romans, Croatia suffered a series of invasions and territorial disputes against the backdrop of dynastic wars. During the medieval period, many towns in Croatia flourished and this meant different powers sought to control the region. For many centuries, the Venetians, Ottomans and Croats controlled various parts of what is now Croatia. All the while, Croatian nationalism grew. Our program helps to make sense of this turbulent history and gives an insight into Croatia's long journey to independence and how different religions and civilisations have shaped its rich culture.

History of Croatia Tour Itinerary - Tracing our way along the coast

Odyssey's Croatia tours follows the coastline, not only because of it's beauty and the hidden gems along the way, but because it also gives a sense of how trade and outside influences made their mark. Before we reach the coast, we explore sites as diverse as the Glagolitic Alley, a memorial of eleven outdoor monuments marking the road between Roc and Hum. These pay tribute to the ancient Glagolitic script, which was invented as a means for making Latin more accessible. Hum is one of the tiniest villages you will ever visit, with an equally tiny gateway leading into it.

After this, we weave our way down along the Dalmatian coast to Dubrovnik taking a route away from the popular tourist trails. This allows you to have an authentic travel experience, seeing everything Croatia has to offer without the crowds.

Included in Odyssey Traveller's tour package is the expertise of our knowledgeable local guides. We will see the murals, paintings and mosaics that (in addition to the Venetian architecture) have shaped and influenced the North of the country. As we travel south, the influence of the Adriatic and trading becomes apparent through the traces of history that live on.

During this vacation in Croatia, our experiences are many and varied. We explore pristine coastal islands and admire the Plitvice lakes before reaching Dubrovnik and having the opportunity to walk its walled city and catch sight of Lokrum Island. The coast part of the tour gives us an appreciation of the incredible Dalmatian coast and the islands that dot the Adriatic waters. The tour combines the incomparable beauty of the region with a fascinating history, creating a truly unforgettable experience.

This tour includes a range of hotel styles. The accommodation has been selected to maximise your experience throughout Croatia. The Croatia small group tour is designed for seniors - both couples and solo travellers are welcome. Our Croatia tour joins the Balkans small group tour, should you wish to extend your European coastal holiday.

You can learn more about Croatia with our country profile For more details, click the ‘Top 5’ or ‘Itinerary’ buttons above! If you’re keen to experience this tour, please call or send an email. Or, to book, simply fill in the form on the right hand side of this page.

• Discovery
• Level 2 - Moderate