Relaxed 13-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zagreb to Grad Krapina and Grad Varaždin

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia, you’ll go deep into Zagreb, where you'll stay for 5 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!

Get ready for an exciting day in Zagreb. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum, a botanical garden, a monument, a church, a park and much more! Begin your adventure at Technical Museum. This is an often recommended museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb, an often recommended botanical garden in Zagreb.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Ban Josip Jelačić Statue. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Zagreb Cathedral, another of the city’s notable attractions. We recommend ending your self-guided tour of the city with an eye-catching park. Ribnjak Park is a truly remarkable place to visit in Zagreb.

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.

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.

Discover the culinary delights of Zagreb by securing a reservation at Tač. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of traditional cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Noel, renowned for its delicious modern dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Beštija, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering contemporary menu. With its Bib Gourmand recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Krolo. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Kavana Corso offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Valhalla Beer Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!

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

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Zagreb, including a park, a museum, and a zoo. Start your day with a visit to Bundek. This well-known park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Croatian Museum Of Contemporary Art, which may be one of the most photogenic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Zagreb on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Park Maksimir, one of the city’s most interesting park. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Zagreb Zoo.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Croatia by joining a traveler-approved tour in Zagreb. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Zagreb that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Croatia more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Zagreb to find the best options for you!

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at La Štruk, a top-rated dining spot in Zagreb. If you're in the mood for something new, try Tagliata, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Batak Grill. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zagreb.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Zagreb. The bars in Zagreb make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting A’e Craft Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Budbar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Mr. Fogg also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through Croatia means 24 hours of making the best memories in Zagreb. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Zagreb. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Zagreb!

Today's adventure in Zagreb promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at St. Mark's Church. This majestic church is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Stone Gate, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Museum Of Broken Relationships, one of the city’s most worthwhile attractions, known for its instagrammable features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Lotrščak Tower. This breathtaking historical landmark is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Croatia more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Zagreb offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

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.

Make sure to book a table at Museum of Broken Relationships, 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 GOSTIONICA RESTORAN PURGER, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Cheese Bar. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Zagreb tonight.

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.

Keep the evening going at Esplanade 1925 Lounge & Cocktail Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Carpe Diem, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Regular. Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Zagreb and visit amazing attractions in Brezovac Žumberački, Samobor, Strmec, and Zagreb destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 2 nights left in Zagreb. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Set your GPS to Samobor and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 59 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Samobor beckons with new experiences!

Begin your journey at Žumberak And Samobor Mountains and explore the eye-catching features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Samobor. This drive usually takes around 59 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Take your self-guided tour to Samobor Castle, a locally appreciated castle that everyone visiting Samobor should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to King Tomislav Square. This romantic public square is one of the most locally appreciated attractions in the region. Don’t miss out on Church Of St. Anastasia, a photogenic church, popular among locals as well as travelers.

Set your GPS to Strmec and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Strmec beckons with new experiences!

Your self-guided tour starts at Kipišće Lake, an increasingly popular lake that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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 Restoran ZLATNA ŠKOLJKA, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, RougeMarin offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Otto & Frank is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Zagreb.

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

Cap off your dinner by heading to Mali Grad, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. B Blok Caffe Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Swanky Monkey Garden is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Croatia. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Croatia tomorrow with new energy.

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Croatia continues on day 6, 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 Zagreb and beyond. With 1 night left in Zagreb, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

When you’ve had your share of Grad Klanjec, 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 8 min.

Your self-guided tour starts at Galerija Antuna Augustinčića, Klanjec, an up-and-coming art gallery that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

When you’ve had your share of Grad Klanjec, 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 8 min.

Kumrovec is a curiosity-inducing museum we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour to The Birth House Of Josip Broz Tito, a symbolic museum that’s well-regarded in the area.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Desinić, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Općina Kumrovec to Desinić may take around 19 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Desinić, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Head to Dvor Veliki Tabor, an underrated castle in Desinić. Explore its awe-inspiring features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Pri zvoncu, a top-rated dining destination in Zagreb. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Šarm restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mex Cantina. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zagreb this evening.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Barbar Xxl, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Vintage Industrial Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Buzz Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip across Croatia promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the village of Radoboj and drive in the direction of the village of Mihaljekov Jarek for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the town of Grad Krapina, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Radoboj’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Mihaljekov Jarek. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 9 min. When you arrive in Mihaljekov Jarek, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Muzej Radboa. Spend some time admiring the photogenic features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Radoboj, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Mihaljekov Jarek may take around 9 min. Upon your arrival in Mihaljekov Jarek, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make your way to Muzej Oldtimera, a beloved museum that draws attention for its heritage-rich features.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Mihaljekov Jarek, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Grad Krapina may take around 4 min. Upon your arrival in Grad Krapina, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take your self-guided tour to Museum Of Neandertals In Krapina, an often recommended museum that everyone visiting Grad Krapina should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Croatia at Grad Krapina. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the town to recharge and rejuvenate.

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 town for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Krčma pod Starim Krovovima, an iconic dining spot in Grad Krapina. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Foodbar Garozzo, a popular restaurant in Grad Krapina. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Pizzeria Picikato, a hidden gem nestled in Grad Krapina. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Caffe Bar Leone, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Cafde Bar Classic offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Grad Krapina. Autotransporti Kunštek Branko is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Day 8 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Croatia gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Grad Varaždin. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Grad Varaždin, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 4 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Grad Krapina and set your GPS to Grad Varaždin. 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 1 hour 4 min. Upon reaching Grad Varaždin, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make your way to Palača Herzer, Gmv Varaždin, a worthwhile museum that draws attention for its instagrammable features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Church Of St. Nicholas, a culturally significant church that stands out in the city. Next, visit Cathedral Of The Assumption Of The Virgin Mary, Varaždin, an increasingly popular church that offers a unique experience.

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.

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 Grad Varaždin.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Cafe Haustor, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restoran Angelus? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Medonja as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Grad Varaždin.

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

Continue your lively evening at Caffe Bar Madera, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Sax - Pub is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, My Way Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure 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 3 nights. 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.

Today’s route brings a breathtaking, a photogenic, a respected, a symbolic, a masterful, and a romantic. The first attraction of today is Varaždin Cemetery. This worthwhile cemetery is a noteworthy place to see in Grad Varaždin. Continue your discovery at Old Town, Varaždin, a romantic castle with stories to tell.

Grad Varaždinske Toplice’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Grad Varaždin behind. This drive usually takes around 24 min. Grad Varaždinske Toplice welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Lječilišni Park, an intriguing park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Aquae Iassae - Forum, where you can soak in the visually striking surroundings.

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

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 Grad Varaždin.

Make sure to book a table at Restoran Cimplet, a popular restaurant in Grad Varaždin. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Grad Varaždin at Šanjek Zalogajnica, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Döner Kebab Varaždin. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Grad Varaždin tonight.

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

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Caffe Bar "sloboda", a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Elephant offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Mai Tai Bar Varaždin. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!

Day 12 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!

Set your GPS to Grad Čazma and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 13 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Grad Čazma beckons with new experiences!

Head to Church Of St. Mary Magdalene, a worthwhile church in Grad Čazma.

Set your GPS to Podgarić and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 36 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Podgarić beckons with new experiences!

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Monument To The Revolution Of The People Of Moslavina, a frequently visited monument that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Garic Town, where you can soak in the history-steeped surroundings.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Zagreb in this laid-back road trip in Croatia. You'll stay here for 1 night.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Brenner Grill & Restaurant, 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 Restoran Palfi, a popular restaurant in Zagreb. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Johann Franck, a hidden gem nestled in Zagreb. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Round off your dining experience by visiting Hub Cooltura Pub, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Caffe Bar Cug, a bar catering to every mood and preference. The Beertija likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Croatia.