Relaxed 12-Day Croatia Road Trip Starting from Zagreb to Grad Varaždin

Your relaxed road trip through Croatia starts when you reach the incredible city of Zagreb, where you'll stay for 9 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Zagreb and begin your adventure in Croatia.

Journey into the unknown at Ice Park Zagreb, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,400 reviews.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Zagreb. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Zagreb.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Roots - juice & cocktail bar? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Booze and Blues after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Krolo for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Croatia. Enjoy your first taste of Zagreb as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Croatia means 24 hours of making the best memories in Zagreb. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Zagreb!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Ban Josip Jelačić Statue. This much-appreciated sightseeing destination is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,840 reviews.

Next up is Zagreb Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 16,419 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Ribnjak Park. This park has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,293 reviews.

Croatian Museum of Contemporary Art is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This art museum has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,598 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Bundek. This lake is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 15,257 reviews.

Croatia makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Croatia also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Make sure to book a table at Cheese Bar, a popular restaurant in Zagreb. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zagreb at Pri zvoncu, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Croatia.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Valhalla beer bar, known for its lively atmosphere. A’e Craft Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Zagreb!

Day 3 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Zagreb, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Croatia are extraordinary.

Kick off the day at Park Maksimir, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 19,379 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Zagreb Zoo. Zagreb Zoo is a zoo with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 24,176 reviews.

Botanical Garden of the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,593 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Technical Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,294 visitors.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Zagreb by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Zagreb has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Restoran Vegehop, an iconic dining spot in Zagreb. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Mali Medo, a popular restaurant in Zagreb. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Mr. Fogg. Alternatively, go to Swanky Monkey Garden, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Croatia!

On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia, you’ll go deep into Zagreb, where you'll stay for 6 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Zagreb, and meet locals along the way!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to St. Mark's Church. This church building is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,070 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Stone Gate. This city gate has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,640 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Museum of Broken Relationships. This museum has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 7,032 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Lotrščak Tower. This fortified tower is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,513 visitors.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Croatia. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Croatia and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Zagreb, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Don’t miss out on dining at Pivnica Medvedgrad Ilica, a top-rated dining destination in Zagreb. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider HERITAGE - Croatian Street Food & Shop, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Zagreb and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at BarBar XXL, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Vintage Industrial Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in the city of Zagreb and visit amazing attractions in Croatia that travel enthusiasts from around the world often include in their itineraries. Today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in Croatia.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Krašić. This car ride takes around 57 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Church of the Most Holy Trinity. This much-appreciated church is rated 4.9 out of 5 stars in 525 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Krašić and set your GPS to Goljak. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 23 min. Upon reaching Goljak, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Drop by the renowned Slap Brisalo - Slapnica. This popular point of interest has been rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 140 visitors.

Set your GPS to Staničići Žumberački and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 10 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Staničići Žumberački beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Žumberak and Samobor Mountains. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 3,339 reviews.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Zagreb.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Croatia, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Zagreb.

Don’t miss out on dining at Submarine Burger Frankopanska, a top-rated dining destination in Zagreb. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Dubravkin put, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Zagreb.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Hub Cooltura Pub, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Program Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Zagreb!

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip across Croatia, you’ll explore the area around Strmec, where you’ll be staying for another 4 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Strmec will make you fall even more in love with the village and uniqueness of Croatia.

Make Ecopark Krašograd your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,633 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Zagreb. This drive usually takes around 33 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Playground / Lake Kipiste. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 368 reviews.

Continue your journey at Kipišće Lake. This park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,241 travelers from near and far.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Zagreb and your accommodation.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant Zelen Dvor, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Harat's Pub is another top choice with a popular menu.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Zagreb and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Croatia!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Croatia continues on day 7, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Croatia and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Samobor and beyond. With 3 nights left in Zagreb, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the town.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Zagreb, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Samobor. This drive usually takes around 46 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Journey into the unknown at Samobor Castle, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable castle has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,942 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, King Tomislav Square is a recommended place to visit. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 976 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Samobor is Samoborski muzej. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 166 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Samobor offers an experience you will remember.

Church of St. Anastasia is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Samobor. This church promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.7 out of 5 stars in 504 reviews.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Zagreb.

Exploring the food culture in Zagreb offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Dine in style at Bota Šare Zagreb restaurant - oyster & sushi bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Vinodol boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Croatia.

On day 8 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in the city of Zagreb and visit amazing attractions in Croatia that travel enthusiasts from around the world often include in their itineraries. Today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in Croatia.

When you’ve had your share of Zagreb, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Općina Kumrovec. Your travel time is around 1 hour 5 min.

Take the opportunity to see The birth house of Josip Broz Tito. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,006 visitors.

Kumrovec is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This municipality of croatia has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,889 travelers.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Općina Kumrovec, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Desinić may take around 18 min. Upon your arrival in Desinić, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready to see some sights, Dvor Veliki Tabor is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,200 visitors.

Grad Krapina’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Desinić behind. This drive usually takes around 38 min. Grad Krapina welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Journey into the unknown at Museum of Neandertals in Krapina, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,655 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Zagreb and your accommodation.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Croatia. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Zagreb, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Make sure to book a table at McDonald's Vrbani, a popular restaurant in Zagreb. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zagreb at Stari Fijaker, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Croatia.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Općina Kumrovec can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Croatia!

On day 9 of your relaxed road trip across Croatia, you’ll explore the area around Grad Varaždin, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Grad Varaždin will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Croatia.

Grad Varaždin’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Zagreb behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 17 min. Grad Varaždin welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready to see some sights, Varaždin City Museum is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 144 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Old Town, Varaždin. This castle has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,698 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Varaždin cemetery. The cemetery has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 328 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Grad Varaždin, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Trakošćan. Your travel time is around 44 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Trakošćan Castle. This much-appreciated château is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 9,673 reviews.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Zagreb.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Zagreb has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Boban, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, mekPer's offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Zagreb.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Croatia!

Day 10 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Croatia will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Croatia, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Grad Varaždin’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Zagreb behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 13 min. Grad Varaždin welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Take the opportunity to see Kapucinska crkva. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 307 visitors.

Advent u Varaždinu is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 400 travelers.

Grad Varaždin is also the home of Church of St. Nicholas. Around 453 people have rated this church an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, Varaždin. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from a total of 700 reviews, a visit to this cathedral is a great idea.

In the city of Grad Varaždin, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Croatia.

Exploring the food culture in Grad Varaždin offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restoran "Zvonimir" Varaždin, a top-rated dining destination in Grad Varaždin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restoran Angelus, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Medonja. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Grad Varaždin this evening.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Grad Varaždin’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Croatia.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Caffe bar Madera, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, SAX - PUB is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, My Way bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Croatia!

Day 11 of your self-drive tour in Croatia is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Zagreb for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Croatia.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Grad Varaždin, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Grad Čazma. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 13 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Church of St. Mary Magdalene. This extraordinary church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 135 visitors.

After soaking in Grad Čazma’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Podgarić. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 36 min. When you arrive in Podgarić, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready to see some sights, Monument to the Revolution of the People of Moslavina is a great place to start. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 441 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Garic town. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 355 travelers.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Zagreb. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Croatia by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Croatia. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Zagreb, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Zagreb and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Croatia.

Day 12 of your relaxed road trip in Croatia is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Zagreb.

On your last day in Croatia, take time to indulge in shopping at Zagreb’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Croatia. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Croatia forever.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Zagreb is the remarkable Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,026 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 12 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Zagreb or just grab something light to keep you going.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Zagreb and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 12-day relaxed road trip in Croatia is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.