2026 Samobor Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in February)

✈ Self-driving tour around Croatia during the National Day, 11 days of itinerary, basically covered all the classic scenes. Sharing some dry goods (detailed content, divided into several issues). 👑Zagreb (Pictures 5-7) This time we took a circular route, landed in Zagreb by LOT Polish Airlines, and spent half a day visiting Stone Gate, market, two churches (not open for renovation) the next day. 🔺The most recommended attraction is Lotrščak Tower, where you can overlook the whole Zagreb. On one side of the tower is the shortest cable car in the world. 🔺Go to St. Mark's Church early in the morning, it's hard to take pictures when there are too many people later. It is recommended to book accommodation near Jelačić Square, where you can walk to all attractions. I booked Apartman Rudi, over 400 per night. 🔺It's cheap to take Uber in Zagreb. 👑Dubrovnik (Pictures 1-4, 12-14) Flew to Dubrovnik in the afternoon of the second day, also considered self-driving, not to mention tired, because we planned to stay in Dubrovnik for 3 nights, and the attractions in the city can be reached on foot. Save 3 days of car rental fee, the domestic ticket is only over 300. 🔺The most photogenic place here is the old town. If you love photography, it is recommended to book a hotel on the hill opposite the old town. I booked Apartments Villa Kosovic - ground floor, the view is excellent, you can overlook the sunrise and sunset of the old town from the balcony. The price is 400 per night, which is very cheap. 🔺As for taking pictures, the main street of the old town is crowded with tourists, but the small alleys on both sides are less crowded and good for shooting. In addition, it is necessary to go up the city wall at sunset, at least reserve 3 hours, otherwise they will rush people when they close. 🔺Another sunset viewing spot in Dubrovnik is on the mountain. Many people will take the cable car to the top of the mountain. But if you want to frame the old town and the sunset, you need a more southern perspective. I found a "wild view" (location in picture 13) through Google Maps, the view is better, and it only costs 15 euros to take a taxi up. 👑Korčula (Pictures 8-11) Three days in Dubrovnik, rent a car on the fourth day to Korčula. 🔺The car rental company chose SIXT, the pick-up and return process was very smooth. Please note that if you are going to several Balkan countries (such as Mostar), you need to pay a 50 euro exit fee. 🔺Drive to Orebi on Korčula Island, take a 15-minute ferry, 15 euros for both people and cars is very cheap. 🔺This small island is like a shield, beautiful when viewed from the air. It used to belong to Venice, so the architectural style also fully reflects the Italian style. There are day-trip tourists on the island, and it is comfortable to stroll in the morning and evening. 🔺Korčula has a real jelly sea, just under the city wall of the old town, where you can swim. The hotels on the island are also very cheap. I booked a four-star hotel (Marko Polo Hotel by Aminess) with a buffet dinner, over 700. 👑Split (Pictures 15-16) 🔺Drive from Korčula to Split in 2 hours, where there is the World Heritage Site Diocletian's Palace. It is recommended to play early in the morning and late at night. When the lights are on at night, the ruins are like the Palatine in Rome. The second day, climb the bell tower, visit the cathedral, feel mediocre, not cheap, not very worthwhile. 🔺Overall, there are many tourists in Split, the whole city is relatively noisy, if it is not for island hopping, one night is enough.

#hellochristmas Nestled just 25 km west of Zagreb, the charming Croatian town of Samobor transforms into a twinkling winter wonderland during Advent, from late November to early January. Baroque spires and cobblestone streets glow under thousands of festive lights, draping historic squares like Trg kralja Tomislava in a magical veil. The air hums with carols from local choirs and the crackle of fire shows, while the scent of mulled wine (kuhano vino) and cinnamon-spiced fritule wafts from wooden stalls brimming with handmade licitar hearts—vibrant gingerbread symbols of love—and crystal ornaments, a craft tradition spanning 170 years. At the heart of the festivities, a vast ice-skating rink beckons families to glide under starry skies, encircled by stalls offering Samobor's famed kremšnita custard slice at Tavern Gabreku 1929. Each Sunday, Advent candles are lit amid cheers, ushering in communal joy with concerts by brass bands and blues ensembles. Nearby Anindol Forest Park twinkles with paths lined in luminaries, offering panoramic views of snow-dusted hills and distant Zagreb's glow. This petite gem, walkable and intimate, captures Croatia's blend of Alpine coziness and Mediterranean warmth—far from crowds, yet pulsing with heartfelt holiday spirit. A perfect day trip: arrive by dawn, savor the shine till dusk.

#hellohalloween Samobor is a charming small town known for its historic streets, cozy cafés, and scenic surroundings. It’s perfect for a day trip or a relaxing weekend close to nature and tradition. 1. 🏘️ Old Town Stroll through cobbled streets lined with pastel-colored buildings and small squares. Discover artisan shops, bakeries, and local cafés tucked into the historic alleys 🏛️. 2. ⛪ Church of St. Anastasia Visit this beautiful baroque church in the heart of Samobor. Its elegant architecture and serene interior make it a peaceful stop ✨. 3. 🍰 Samoborska Kremšnita Don’t miss tasting the town’s famous cream cake, a local specialty. Enjoy it in a traditional café while people-watching in the square 🍮. 4. 🌿 Samobor Hills Explore the surrounding hills with hiking or cycling trails. Enjoy panoramic views of the town and nearby forests, especially in autumn 🍁. 5. 🛍️ Local Shops and Markets Browse markets and small shops for handcrafted souvenirs, local honey, and delicacies. Fresh pastries, cheeses, and smoked meats are great to sample and take home 🛍️. 6. 🏰 Samobor Castle Ruins Walk up to the old castle ruins for scenic views over the town and surrounding valleys. It’s a peaceful spot to enjoy history and nature together 🏞️. 7. 🚶 River and Park Walks Take a leisurely walk along the streams and green spaces surrounding the town. Small bridges and benches make it perfect for a relaxing afternoon stroll 🌿. 8. 🍴 Traditional Croatian Cuisine Try local dishes in family-run restaurants, including sausages, stews, and grilled meats. Pair meals with local wines or craft beers for a complete taste of Samobor 🍷. 9. 🎨 Cultural Events Samobor hosts festivals, art exhibitions, and traditional celebrations throughout the year. Seasonal events like the Carnival or summer concerts bring the town to life 🎭. 10. 🌇 Evening in Samobor Enjoy a quiet evening in the town square with cafés and street lights creating a cozy atmosphere. Perfect for a relaxed dinner or evening coffee while soaking in the small-town charm 💛. Samobor is a delightful escape with history, nature, and culinary delights. Its peaceful streets, scenic surroundings, and friendly atmosphere make it a perfect destination near Zagreb.

3-Day Travel Itinerary: Novo Mesto, Samobor & Brežice This itinerary assumes a car rental for flexibility (recommended for the short drives between these compact towns), starting in Novo Mesto, Slovenia, and ending in Brežice. Novo Mesto 1. Kandijski Most (Candlestick Bridge) - Why Visit: Iconic 14th-century stone arch bridge spanning the Krka River, offering stunning riverfront views and photo ops along the Breg promenade. 2. Dolenjska Museum - Why Visit: Houses UNESCO-recognized Iron Age artifacts, including intricate situlae (bronze vessels) from the Hallstatt culture. A must for history enthusiasts. 3. Otočec Castle - Why Visit: Slovenia’s only water castle, a 13th-century fortress on a Krka River islet. Now a luxury hotel, but grounds are free to explore. - 4. Trška Gora Hill - Why Visit: Scenic vineyard hill for tasting Cviček, a light, tart red wine unique to Dolenjska. Family-run wineries offer authentic experiences. 5. Glavni Trg (Main Square) - Why Visit: Baroque heart of the Old Town with Mestna Hiša (Town Hall) and the Franciscan Church, home to a Tintoretto painting. Samobor: 1. Samobor Castle Ruins -Why Visit: 13th-century Gothic ruins perched on a hill, offering a short, scenic hike and panoramic views of Samobor’s red rooftops and Žumberak hills. 2. Kremšnita Tasting at U Prolazu or Slasticarna Krešnita -Why: Samobor’s iconic kremšnita (flaky custard slice) is a must-try culinary delight, beloved by locals and visitors alike. 3.Trg Kralja Tomislava (King Tomislav Square) -Why Visit: Vibrant baroque square with Sv. Ana Chapel, colorful facades, and artisan shops selling licitar hearts (painted gingerbread) and crystal. 4. Anindol Forest Park -Why Visit: Lush green park just outside town, offering easy walking trails, picnic spots, and small waterfalls. Perfect for families or a relaxing escape. 5. Žumberak-Samoborsko Gorje Nature Park -Why Visit: Rugged hills ideal for hiking, paragliding, or exploring medieval village ruins and streams. A taste of Croatia’s alpine wilderness. Brežice 1. Brežice Castle (Posavje Museum) Why Visit: A well-preserved 1521 Renaissance fortress featuring a stunning Baroque Knights’ Hall with frescoes, armor exhibits, and regional history displays. 2. Terme Čatež -Why Visit: Europe’s largest thermal spa complex, offering 62°C/144°F healing waters, indoor-outdoor pools, slides, and saunas for relaxation or family fun. 3. Repnice Wine Cellars -Why Visit: Unique underground diatomite caves used for centuries to store Posavje wines, offering tastings of crisp local whites. 4. Sava River Promenade -Why Visit: Scenic riverside path with views of Brežice’s old town and distant Alps, ideal for leisurely walks or cycling. 5. Mokrice Castle -Why Visit: A 15th-century castle turned hotel, surrounded by a golf course and lush parkland. Free to explore exterior and gardens. Enjoy!

#myhiddengems Samobor made for a nice day trip during my stay in Zagreb. Croatia is starting to become a staple of my European holidays. And I've come to realise that all these lovely day trips and small cities with an old town might have something to do with it. Samobor deserves more credit than it is given. For a small place with cobblestone streets, lovely food and historic ruins. I shared a rented car with another friend of mine so it took us barely half an hour to get here from Zagreb. There are also buses to do so. Oh and no parking issues, something that always worries me about new places and renting a car. Now about things we managed to do or places to see included Wande king tomislav square, the church of St. Anastasia, old wooden bridge, a hike to the sombor castle ruins and the sombor museum. This felt just about enough and suited our pace. Although there might be some more local attractions worth seeing. Lastly, the town's famous somobor cream cake is worth trying. Then again all cakes are worth trying!!#myhiddengems #summerdestinations #sombor #croatia #daytrips #100waysoftravel #cherryblossom2024 #somobor

Address: 16 minutes walk from Samobor long distance bus terminal (Samobor is about 1 hour by bus from Zagreb) Atmosphere/Facilities: Terrace seating overlooking the church and Samobor's main square Price: €4.5 Rating: ★★ A cafe famous for its Croatian specialty sweet "Kremšnita", a custard cream sandwiched between puff pastry. It is located in the suburban area of ​​Samobor, about an hour by bus from Zagreb. Kremšnita also has its own unique style depending on the shop, such as one with chocolate on top or two layers with whipped cream, but the one at this shop was a simple one made of fluffy puff pastry and light custard cream. It looks big, but it's so light that you can eat it all in one go. A recommended place for a short trip from Zagreb. #Croatia #Cafe #Cafehopping #Gourmet

Kremsnite is a famous Croatian dessert, a bit like Napoleon, with cream in the middle and a layer of crisps. In fact, this dessert is sold in cake shops of all sizes in the country, and this Kremsnite of u prolazu is especially famous. Actually, I have tasted Kremsnite in cake shops in other cities, but this is really delicious, the cream is not greasy, the texture is refreshing, and the taste is very good, it will not sell very well because of its famous name. Expensive, the impression seems to be just 12kuna... It has other desserts, but sincerely recommend eating only Kremsnite haha.