Wine Tastings and Winery Visits in Croatian uplands

Nestled just north and west of Zagreb, the Croatian Uplands unfold across rolling hills and verdant valleys dotted with castles, medieval villages, and vineyard-draped slopes. This continental heartland—sometimes called Bregovita Hrvatska—makes up about 20% of Croatia’s vineyards and enchants with its quiet beauty, cool climate, and limestone terroir that offers an authentic escape into rural wine country.

The Uplands boast intimate, family-run wineries you can easily reach from Zagreb—often within an hour’s drive. Areas like Plešivica, Zagorje, Međimurje, Moslavina, and Prigorje–Bilogorje offer sparkling wine trails and immersive tastings in cellars old and new. Many spots rely on solar power, biodynamic techniques, and small-scale charm to craft exceptional local wines.

In this region, the richness of inland Croatia is reflected in hearty, wholesome cuisine—think homemade sausages, smoked meats, horn of plenty-style cheeses, and fresh pastries. These dishes pair beautifully with local Graševina, Frankovka, or sparkling Plešivica vino, offering a satisfying taste of genuine, terroir-rooted hospitality with every glass.

Native grape varieties flourish here: aromatic whites like Škrlet, Dišeća Ranina, Moslavac Bijeli, and Kraljevina, as well as revitalized reds such as Plavec Žuti. These genetic treasures—some among Croatia’s 120+ indigenous varieties—are now paired with global favorites like Riesling, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, and Muscat in the Uplands’ limestone soils.

Spring breathes color into the hills, perfect for vineyard walks and castle picnics. Summer’s mild inland sun is ideal for winery visits and outdoor tastings. Autumn brings harvest buzz and fall foliage, while winter offers peaceful charm—cozy cellars, fog-laced hills, and slow culinary pleasures.

Use Zagreb as your base—day-trip to Plešivica for acclaimed sparkling wine, or explore quaint towns like Samobor (famous for bermet), Jastrebarsko, Zagorje, or Međimurje for rustic charm and family cellars. Castle visits at Trakošćan, folkcraft in Kumrovec, or strolling baroque streets in Varaždin are just as beckoning. Combine vineyards, heritage, and countryside drives for a richly layered getaway.

Here are the top wineries to visit in Croatian uplands:

• Bolfan Vinski Vrh

Yes — 3 wine tour experiences are available in Croatian uplands. See all Wine tours in Croatian uplands.