A Day You’ll Always Be Grateful For Zrmanja Canyon Hidden Gem
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Breathtaking canyon cruise through Croatia’s hidden gem
Small-group boat tour led by friendly local Captain Ante
Two unforgettable swim stops in stunning locations
Delicious lunch with multiple options, drinks, and local charm
A relaxing yet adventurous full-day escape from the ordinary
It’s the kind of experience you’ll always be grateful you took.
Available options
A Day You’ll Always Be Grateful For Zrmanja Canyon Hidden Gem
What's included
Bottled water
Lunch
All fees and charges
Insurance
Detailed itinerary
1
Croatia’s Stunning Hidden Gem Awaits
Our adventure kicks off at 10:00 AM in the charming coastal town of Novigrad, just a 30-minute drive from Zadar.
To keep things smooth and easy, we recommend arriving by 9:40 AM so there’s time to settle in, snap a few photos, and get ready for the journey ahead.
Bonus: Parking in Novigrad is completely free, making your arrival just as easy and enjoyable as the journey that follows.
2
Stop 2
Why You’ll Love It
From the moment we set off, you’ll be surrounded by peaceful landscapes and postcard-perfect views that feel almost unreal.
We begin by sailing through the incredible Zrmanja River Canyon — a true natural masterpiece. The canyon walls soar over 200 meters high, creating a dramatic, jaw-dropping backdrop as we cruise along a 6-kilometer route filled with vibrant colors and pristine scenery.
It’s the kind of beauty that leaves you speechless.
We’ll stop for a swim right where the Zrmanja River meets the Novigrad sea — a magical spot known as the Zrmanja confluence.
Whether you're a nature lover, adventure seeker, or simply looking to relax and disconnect, this tour is pure soul food. It’s calm, inspiring, and absolutely unforgettable.
3
️ ️ Lunch with a View – Included in the Price
Next, we’ll cruise into the quaint coastal village of Ribnica for a well-earned lunch at the popular Restaurant Kalada. Here, you’ll dine with a stunning panoramic view of the sea as your backdrop — the perfect setting to relax and refuel.
Choose from a delicious selection of grilled meat, fresh fish, or pizza (a favorite with the kids!), all served with a fresh seasonal salad. And of course, no Dalmatian meal is complete without a glass of local house wine or refreshing juices — the perfect taste of true coastal hospitality.
4
Bridges, Bays & Swim Stop
After lunch, we fire up the engine and cruise beneath the legendary old and new Maslenica bridges — soaring high above the channel, the views from the water are nothing short of epic.
As we pass below, you’ll get a unique perspective of these towering structures set against the dramatic backdrop of the Velebit mountains.
But we’re not done yet. Next stop: open waters of the Velebit Channel. Here, where the channel meets the Novigrad Sea, we drop anchor for another unforgettable swim.
5
⛵ Return to Novigrad – Around 16:00
We wrap up the tour with a smooth and safe sail back to Novigrad, hearts full, cameras packed with memories, and minds refreshed by one of the most beautiful hidden experiences in Croatia.
What's not included
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
HR
Important information
Service animals allowed
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Kindly inform us of any dietary requirements when making your reservation.
Meeting point
Head to the dock and look for our boat, Luna, or find Captain Ante — a local who’s ready to guide you into the magical beauty of Zrmanja Canyon.
Still can’t find us? No worries – give us a call or WhatsApp at +385 98 167 4848, and we’ll guide you straight to us.
About Istria
Istria is a picturesque peninsula in Croatia known for its stunning coastline, rolling hills, medieval towns, and rich Roman and Venetian history. Often compared to Tuscany, it offers a blend of Italian and Croatian cultures, delicious cuisine, and a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle.
Top Attractions
Pula Arena
A well-preserved Roman amphitheater that dates back to the 1st century AD. It's one of the largest and best-preserved Roman arenas in the world.
Historical
1-2 hours
€10
Rovinj Old Town
A charming medieval town with narrow streets, colorful houses, and a beautiful Venetian architecture. The town is built on a peninsula with stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
Historical
Half-day
Free to explore
Brijuni National Park
A group of 14 islands with lush vegetation, ancient ruins, and a rich history. The park is a protected area with diverse flora and fauna.
Nature
Full-day
€20-30 for a guided tour
Lim Fjord
A unique fjord-like valley formed by the Lim River, surrounded by steep cliffs and lush greenery. It's a popular spot for kayaking, swimming, and hiking.
Nature
Half-day to full-day
Free to explore
Grožnjan
A picturesque hilltop town known for its art galleries, music festivals, and medieval architecture. It's a popular destination for artists and art lovers.
Cultural
Half-day
Free to explore
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fuži with Truffles
Handmade Istrian pasta with a creamy truffle sauce, a local specialty.
Main Course
Contains gluten and dairy
Boškarin
A traditional Istrian dish made with boiled or roasted Istrian ox meat, served with sauerkraut and gnocchi.
Main Course
Contains meat and gluten
Pizza Istriana
A local variation of pizza with Istrian ingredients like truffles, wild asparagus, and local cheeses.
Main Course
Contains gluten and dairy
Krafi
A sweet pastry filled with a mixture of cottage cheese, eggs, sugar, and sometimes raisins or walnuts.
Dessert
Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs
Popular Activities
Hiking in Učka Nature Park
Kayaking in Lim Fjord
Cycling through Istrian countryside
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Wine tasting
Exploring medieval towns
Visiting museums and galleries
Best Time to Visit
June to September
This is the peak tourist season with warm weather, clear skies, and vibrant festivals. The beaches are crowded, and the sea is perfect for swimming.
20°C to 35°C
68°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Croatian
- Widely spoken: Italian, English, German
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Istria is a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
Getting there
By air
- Pula Airport • 10 km from Pula
- Rijeka Airport • 60 km from Rijeka
By train
Pula Station, Rovinj Station
By bus
Pula Bus Station, Rovinj Bus Station, Poreč Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around Istria. They are reliable and frequent, especially during the tourist season.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Bolt, Camme
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Pula Old Town
Rovinj Old Town
Poreč Old Town
Motovun
Day trips
Venice, Italy
180 km from Pula • Full-day
A day trip to Venice offers a chance to explore the famous canals, historic architecture, and rich cultural heritage of this iconic Italian city.
Plitvice Lakes National Park
200 km from Pula • Full-day
A UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning waterfalls, lakes, and lush forests. It's a popular destination for hiking and nature lovers.
Zagreb
200 km from Pula • Full-day
The capital of Croatia offers a mix of historic sites, museums, and vibrant cafes. It's a great destination for culture and history enthusiasts.
Festivals
Istrian Summer Festival • July and August
Motovun Film Festival • Late July to early August
Rovinj Jazz Festival • July
Pro tips
- Visit during the shoulder seasons (May or October) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather
- Rent a car to explore the region's scenic countryside and coastal areas
- Try local dishes and wines to experience the region's rich culinary traditions
- Explore the medieval towns and historic sites to learn about Istria's fascinating history
- Take a day trip to nearby Venice, Italy, for a unique cultural experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
