4-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zagreb to Grad Varaždin and surrounding area
Description
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Croatia as you embark on an unforgettable 4-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Zagreb, Grad Varaždin, Trakošćan, Grad Krapina, and Općina Kumrovec.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Croatia takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Zagreb and 1 night in Grad Varaždin. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Croatia. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Zagreb, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Croatia on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Croatia. Zagreb Zoo and Ban Josip Jelačić Statue are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Park Maksimir, learn more about the unique Bundek, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Trakošćan Castle.
As you hit the open road and drive through Zagreb, Grad Varaždin, Trakošćan, Grad Krapina, and Općina Kumrovec, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Croatia. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Croatia.
Throughout your road trip in Croatia, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Croatia.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Croatia fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Croatia today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Zagreb - Arrival day
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- Lower Town (Donji Grad)
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Your road trip adventure in Croatia begins as soon as you reach Zagreb and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Zagreb for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Zagreb is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Lower Town (Donji Grad), a must-see neighborhood, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Zagreb. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Zagreb, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Dine in style at Zinfandel's Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Esplanade Zagreb Hotel boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Rougemarin City. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zagreb.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Tesla New Generation, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Caffe Bar Destino provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Booze And Blues offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise a toast to the start of your 4-day road trip in Croatia!
Day 2
- Zagreb
- Varaždin
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Drive 96 km, 1 hour 51 min
- Bundek City Park
- Park Maksimir
- Zagreb Zoo
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On day 2 of your road trip in Croatia, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Zagreb. In the evening, you’ll end up in Grad Varaždin, where you will stay for 1 night.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming city of Zagreb. Your adventure starts at Bundek, a locally renowned local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Park Maksimir. This popular park is known for its mesmerizing appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Zagreb's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Zagreb Zoo. This visually striking zoo offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Grad Varaždin, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Grad Varaždin's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Cafe Haustor, 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 satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Grad Varaždin this evening.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Caffe Bar Madera. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Sax - Pub, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, My Way Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Croatia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3
- Varaždin
- Zagreb
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Drive 150 km, 3 hours 11 min
- Old Town, Varaždin
- Trakošćan Castle
- Museum of Neandertals in Krapina
- "Old Village" Kumrovec
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Grad Varaždin, Trakošćan, Grad Krapina, and Općina Kumrovec, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Zagreb. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Get ready for an exciting day in Grad Varaždin. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a castle and a museum. Begin your adventure at Old Town, Varaždin. This is a worthwhile castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Trakošćan Castle, a locally appreciated castle in Grad Varaždin.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Museum Of Neandertals In Krapina. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Kumrovec, another of the city’s intriguing attractions.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Zagreb. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Zagreb. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Tač, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible traditional menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Noel is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Zagreb. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Beštija. As a top-rated establishment with a Bib Gourmand status, it is an ideal choice for contemporary cuisine in the city.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Krolo, known for its inviting atmosphere. Kavana Corso is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Valhalla Beer Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Say good night to Zagreb and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 4
- Zagreb - Departure day
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- Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
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Day 4 of your road trip in Croatia is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Zagreb before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Ban Josip Jelačić Statue. This notable monument is a popular place to see in the city.
Make the most of your final day in Croatia by visiting Zagreb’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Arena Centar. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Croatia. Savor your final moments in Croatia at a cozy cafe while relaxing with a cup of coffee or tea.
Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Zagreb.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Roots - juice & cocktail bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Štruk offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Tagliata.
You’ll then say farewell to Zagreb. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Croatia!
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