Zadar Hinterland Wine Route

Travelers looking to dip their toes into Croatia’s wine scene often focus on coastal wineries or famous wine regions. However, the Zadar Hinterland Wine Route offers a different vibe—more laid-back, scenic, and intimate. This tour combines the joy of wine tasting with a leisurely ride through Croatia’s countryside, making it perfect for those seeking authentic local flavors without the fuss of larger, more commercialized tours.

What makes this experience stand out is its casual, fun approach: riding in an open-top cabrio bus with views of the sea, lush landscapes, and rustic vineyards all around. It’s ideal for travelers who want more than just tasting wine—they want to soak up the atmosphere, learn about local winemaking traditions, and enjoy a memorable day out in nature.

Three things we particularly like about this tour are the friendly vibe, the variety of wineries visited, and the stunning vistas from the hilltop Konoba Kraljevski Vinogradi. The main consideration? The three-hour duration feels just enough to give a good taste of the region without feeling rushed—though if you’re after a deeper dive into Croatian winemaking, this might only scratch the surface. Perfect for wine lovers, casual drinkers, or anyone craving a scenic outing with a relaxed pace, this tour suits those who want authentic wine experiences in a beautiful setting.

Good To Know

• Authentic experience: Small wineries with a focus on native Croatian varieties.
• Beautiful scenery: Rolling hills, sea views, and picturesque vineyards.
• Relaxed pace: 3-hour tour in an open-top cabrio, perfect for sightseeing and tasting.
• Flexible booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Group size: Limited to 19 travelers, ensuring a personal experience.
• Value for money: Competitive price considering wine tastings and scenic stops included.

Exploring the Zadar Hinterland Wine Route

An Unusual and Enjoyable Way to Discover Croatian Wines

This tour offers a different approach to wine tasting—riding in a cabrio bus that lets you breathe in the countryside, sea air, and panoramic views. The open-top design makes it easy to take photos, appreciate the landscape, and feel the wind as you glide from one winery to the next. It’s a laid-back way to experience Croatian wine culture without the formality often associated with wine tours.

The price of roughly $84 per person presents good value for what you get: visits to three wineries, tastings, and a scenic ride. The tour runs for approximately 3 hours starting at 7:00 pm, making it suitable for those wanting a relaxed evening activity or a different perspective after a day of sightseeing. Plus, the pickup service adds convenience, especially if you’re staying near Zadar’s city center.

Tour Highlights and Stops

Stop 1: Degarra Winery

Our journey kicks off at Degarra Winery, a small, youthful operation that embodies the concept of “Vin de Garage”—small, passionate producers crafting some of Croatia’s finest wines. As one reviewer notes, “Everything was handled extremely well,” and the winemaker’s story and philosophy are part of the charm. Degarra’s wines are likely to appeal to those who appreciate artisan, handcrafted productions.

This first stop offers about 30 minutes to taste their offerings, which include a selection of wines designed to showcase the winery’s passion. The intimate setting allows you to ask questions and learn directly from the producers, which many find adds a special touch to the experience.

Stop 2: Fiolic Winery

Just 5 km from Zadar, Fiolic Winery is a family-run boutique with a strong focus on native grape varieties like Maratina, Plavina, and Debit. Visitors consistently mention the award-winning wines and handcrafted liqueurs, which give a taste of local tradition and craftsmanship.

The 30-minute tasting here feels just right—enough time to savor their native varieties, learn about their winemaking process, and appreciate the personal touch that comes from a family operation. Reviewers often highlight the intimate atmosphere and the chance to explore Croatian wine at its most authentic.

Stop 3: Konoba Kraljevski Vinogradi

The final stop is at a scenic hilltop winery overlooking the Adriatic Sea, called Kraljevski Vinogradi or Royal Vineyards. Here, the views are a highlight, and the wines are top-notch—especially the Plavac Mali and Crljenak, the ancestor of Zinfandel.

This 1-hour stop allows plenty of time to relax, soak in the scenery, and enjoy more generous tastings. It’s a perfect ending to the tour, with many reviewers mentioning the “beautiful vistas” and “delicious wines.” The setting’s tranquility makes it a memorable conclusion.

Practical Details

Meeting Point and Timing

The tour begins at Caffe Bar PonteObala, located at Kneza Branimira 12 in Zadar, with pickups offered from central locations. Starting at 7:00 pm, it’s an evening activity that fits well into a day of exploring Zadar.

Group Size and Comfort

Limited to 19 travelers, the tour maintains a personal, friendly atmosphere. The small group size also means the guide, “Ime,” can provide personalized insights, as one review mentioned. The open-top cabrio bus is a fun, relaxed way to see the countryside, though it’s worth noting that the weather can influence the experience—good weather ensures the best views and comfort.

Weather and Cancellation

Since the tour is outdoors, it depends on good weather—rain or strong wind might lead to cancellations, with options for rescheduling or full refunds. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, which is helpful if plans change unexpectedly.

Price Analysis

At around $83.81, the tour offers good value considering the three wine tastings, scenic ride, and the intimate winery visits. While not a full-day experience, it’s a well-priced option for those wanting a taste of Croatian wine in a relaxed setting.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

One reviewer shared that “our guide Ime was nice enough to talk us through the landscapes and some of the history,” emphasizing the personal touch. They also appreciated how “everything was handled extremely well,” which speaks to the professionalism of the company. The focus on local wines, coupled with the scenic drive, was highlighted as a memorable aspect.

The Sum Up: Is the Zadar Hinterland Wine Route Worth It?

If you’re after a laid-back, scenic, and intimate Croatian wine experience, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially suitable for those who want to combine wine tasting with sightseeing, without the formality or length of larger tours. The focus on native Croatian varieties, small wineries, and beautiful views makes it authentic and memorable.

Travelers who appreciate personal stories from producers, enjoy picturesque landscapes, and prefer a relaxed pace will find this tour offers notable value. It’s a great way to get a taste of Croatia’s less touristy wine regions while enjoying the fresh air and coastal scenery.

However, if you’re looking for a deep dive into Croatian winemaking or want a longer, more comprehensive experience, this might feel a bit brief. Still, for an evening activity that balances fun, education, and scenery, it’s a charming choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
Since it involves riding in an open-top cabrio bus, it’s best suited for travelers with no significant mobility restrictions. The winery visits are mostly outdoors, and the stops are accessible, but it’s advisable to check with the provider for specific needs.

What should I wear?
Comfortable casual clothing is recommended. Since the tour is outdoor and in the evening, consider layers and sunglasses for the daytime portion. An umbrella might be handy if the weather looks uncertain.

Are food options included?
The tour focuses on wine tastings, and there’s no mention of food being provided. However, some wineries might offer small bites or you can bring snacks, especially at the hilltop vineyard.

How long is each stop?
Degarra and Fiolic each allow about 30 minutes for tastings, while the final hilltop winery stays open for about an hour. The overall tour lasts around 3 hours.

Is alcohol consumption safe during the tour?
Yes, the tasting is moderate, and the guide will encourage responsible drinking. Remember, you’ll be riding the bus, so plan your alcohol intake accordingly.

Can I cancel if weather is poor?
Yes, the tour can be canceled or rescheduled if the weather is unsuitable, and you’ll receive a full refund if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers transportation, visits to three wineries, and the wine tastings at each stop. Additional purchases or food are at your discretion.

Is there a dress code?
No formal dress code—just dress comfortably. It’s an outdoor tour, so layers and sun protection are recommended.

Overall, the Zadar Hinterland Wine Route offers a relaxed, scenic, and authentic Croatian wine experience that’s perfect for those wanting to combine wine, nature, and some local culture in a lighthearted setting. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just looking for a fun activity in Zadar, this tour makes for a memorable evening.