7-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Croatia, Hungary, and Bosnia & Herzegovina With Itinerary from Zagreb to Banja Luka, Pécs, and Budapest
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Description
Pack your bags and hit the road for the ultimate 7-day Euro trip extravaganza! This multi-country adventure through the Croatia, Hungary, and Bosnia & Herzegovina guarantees unforgettable experiences at every stop.
With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 3 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 2 nights in Croatia, 3 nights in Hungary, and 1 night in Bosnia & Herzegovina.
In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of Croatia, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Zagreb and begin your adventure from there. Explore Zagreb, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.
Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of Hungary. Immerse yourself in the allure of Pécs and Budapest, where every street tells a story.
Continuing your journey, you'll step into the captivating realm of Bosnia & Herzegovina. This country's charm is boundless, and you'll be impressed by the wonders of Banja Luka.
From must-see attractions to breathtaking viewpoints, this meticulously crafted itinerary promises you a glimpse into the unique features of this region in Europe.
Throughout your tour, you’ll stay at some of the best accommodations along your route. Our recommendations always include options with varying levels of comfort, ranging from 3 to 5-star hotels that cater to various preferences and budgets.
Your ultimate multi-country road trip across Croatia, Hungary, and Bosnia & Herzegovina will not be complete without indulging in some retail therapy! Embark on a quest for a rare souvenir in each destination. Beyond the thrill of buying unique goods, it’s also an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in local customs and interact with friendly locals at every stop.
By booking this holiday package, you can save yourself from the tedious task of researching and planning your road trip in Europe. We'll handle all the travel arrangements for your 7-day self-drive adventure in Croatia, Hungary, and Bosnia & Herzegovina. With our expertise, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience and focus on immersing yourself in incredible destinations without the stress of organizing every detail. This holiday deal also comes with 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide accessible via our mobile app to assist you throughout your journey.
Discover breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and iconic landmarks in multiple European countries on one epic road trip! Travel across borders and experience the freedom of the open road as you create lifelong memories in Croatia, Hungary, and Bosnia & Herzegovina.
Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Zagreb - Arrival day
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- Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Croatia, Hungary, and Bosnia & Herzegovina begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Zagreb in Croatia. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Zagreb for 1 night.
Catch an early flight to Croatia to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Zagreb before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.
Ban Josip Jelačić Statue is a travelers’ favorite in Zagreb, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,166 visitors.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Zagreb. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Croatia, Hungary, and Bosnia & Herzegovina by rewarding yourself with a taste of Zagreb’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Zinfandel's Restaurant, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Esplanade Zagreb Hotel offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Rougemarin City. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zagreb.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Tesla New Generation after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Caffe Bar Destino for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Booze And Blues is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Your multi-country road trip in Croatia, Hungary, and Bosnia & Herzegovina has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.
Day 2
- Zagreb
- Banja Luka
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Drive 207 km, 3 hours 15 min
- Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb
- Botanical Garden of the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb
- Park Maksimir
- Zagreb Zoo
- Bundek City Park
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On day 2 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Croatia, Hungary, and Bosnia & Herzegovina, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Zagreb in Croatia. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Banja Luka, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb is a travelers’ favorite in Zagreb, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,049 visitors.
In Zagreb, don’t miss Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb, a great botanical garden and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,694 reviews.
Check other top attractions in Zagreb off your list when you visit the wonderful Park Maksimir. This popular sight is an outstanding park, rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 19,618 travelers.
Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Zagreb Zoo. This zoo and place of interest has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 24,493 reviews.
If you’re keen to explore even more, the fantastic Bundek awaits. This park is a tourist hot spot, garnering an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,435 visitors.
After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Banja Luka. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.
As the sun sets on day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Banja Luka's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Bosnia & Herzegovina to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Banja Luka has them.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Mac Tire, a highly-rated dining destination in Banja Luka. If you're eager to try something different, consider Kod Muje, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Tihe noћi. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Banja Luka this evening.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Snek, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Peckham Pub is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bikerbar Košnica also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!
Day 3
- Banja Luka
- Pécs
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Drive 293 km, 3 hours 47 min
- Christ the Savior Orthodox Cathedral
- Museum of Contemporary Art of the Republic of Srpska
- Kastel Fortress
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your multi-country journey across Croatia, Hungary, and Bosnia & Herzegovina. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Banja Luka in Bosnia & Herzegovina. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Pécs where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.
A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Banja Luka is the fantastic Christ The Savior Orthodox Cathedral. As an appreciated church and local gem in the area, Christ The Savior Orthodox Cathedral has earned an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 1,537 reviews.
Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Museum Of Contemporary Art Of The Republic Of Srpska. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 492 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!
Join countless others in discovering the allure of Kastel Fortress, a standout castle and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,776 reviewers.
Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Pécs. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.
If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Croatia, Hungary, and Bosnia & Herzegovina, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Pécs. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Morzsa, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional contemporary and hungarian menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Pécs at Ciao Pizzéria és Ristorante, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Kijárat Bár, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Blöff, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Cooltour Café likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!
Day 4
- Pécs
- Budapest
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Drive 218 km, 3 hours 46 min
- Central Market Hall
- St. Stephen's Basilica
- Szimpla
- Buda Castle
- Széchenyi Chain Bridge
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Budapest in Hungary. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Budapest, your home for 2 nights.
When you’ve had your share of Pécs, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Budapest. Your travel time is around 2 hours 24 min.
In Budapest, the extraordinary Central Market Hall awaits. This attraction is a valued grocery or supermarket that boasts an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 93,380 travelers' reviews.
Another of the best travel destinations in Budapest is the spectacular St. Stephen's Basilica. This attraction is a church that is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 58,329 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.
You could then travel to the amazing Szimpla. This local ruin pub and wonder has an overall review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 60,232 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.
Buda Castle is another attraction you might want to add to your Budapest exploration itinerary. This castle is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 51,168 reviews.
If you’re interested in seeing something outstanding today, consider dropping by a well-loved spot among locals — Széchenyi Chain Bridge. More than a popular monument and attraction, Széchenyi Chain Bridge offers visitors an immersive journey of the rich cultural tapestry of Budapest. Széchenyi Chain Bridge boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 54,866 traveler reviews.
Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Budapest.
By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Budapest. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Croatia, Hungary, and Bosnia & Herzegovina.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Budapest by securing a table at Stand. An esteemed 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern and hungarian menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit essência, famous for its scrumptious modern and portuguese dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Babel, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Budapest. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Blue Fox The Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Szimpla Kert, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bar Pharma. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Celebrate day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Budapest
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Drive 16 km, 1 hour 10 min
- Hungarian Parliament Building
- City Park
- Heroes' Square
- Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden
- Széchenyi thermal bath
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On day 5, you will wake up in Budapest with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Budapest before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Croatia, Hungary, and Bosnia & Herzegovina.
One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Hungarian Parliament Building. This outstanding historical landmark and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.8 stars out of 5 from 21,000 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Hungarian Parliament Building is worth pages in your travel diary.
The fascinating City Park is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This park and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 73,708 travelers.
This day is also your chance to see the amazing public square, Heroes' Square. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 74,978 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.
The top-rated Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden, an outstanding historical landmark, is one place you should visit while in Budapest considering its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 41,087 travelers.
Explore the magnificent Széchenyi Thermal Bath and discover what makes this local spa and wonder one of the best attractions in Budapest. This popular sightseeing destination enjoys a rating of 4.3 stars out of 5 from 54,476 travelers.
As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Budapest. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Hungary in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Menza Étterem és Kávéház, a popular restaurant in Budapest. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Budapest at Nagy Fa-Tál étterem, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Eazy. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Budapest tonight.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Kisüzem, known for its inviting atmosphere. Macskakő Coffee Inn is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Dzzs Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!
Day 6
- Budapest
- Zagreb
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Drive 351 km, 4 hours 40 min
- Castle District
- Matthias Church
- Fisherman's Bastion
- Shoes on the Danube Bank
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On day 6 of your multi-country road trip across Croatia, Hungary, and Bosnia & Herzegovina, 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 to see in Budapest in Hungary. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zagreb, where you will stay for 1 night.
One place travelers keep coming back to in Budapest is the magnificent Buda Castle. Around 107,245 visitors have rated this excellent castle and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.
We also recommend you explore the amazing Matthias Church on this leg of your adventure in Hungary. This attraction is a well-known church that has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from around 22,999 travelers.
The remarkable Fisherman's Bastion is known to be one of the best places to visit in Budapest, and its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 90,406 traveler reviews is proof.
Dive deeper into Budapest by exploring the captivating Shoes On The Danube Bank. With a stellar average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 21,348 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Budapest exploration list!
After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Zagreb of your choice.
After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Croatia, Hungary, and Bosnia & Herzegovina by rewarding yourself with a taste of Zagreb’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.
Have a memorable dining experience in Zagreb by booking a table at Tač, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional traditional menu. For a different culinary experience in Zagreb, Noel shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Beštija is known as a top local spot for its delicious contemporary cuisine in Zagreb. This Bib Gourmand awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Krolo, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Kavana Corso offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Valhalla Beer Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Croatia, Hungary, and Bosnia & Herzegovina! Enjoy your evening in Zagreb to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.
Day 7
- Zagreb - Departure day
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- Ribnjak Park
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On day 7 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Zagreb before it’s time to leave.
Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Croatia, Hungary, and Bosnia & Herzegovina. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.
On your last day in Croatia, take time to indulge in shopping at Zagreb’s popular marketplace, Ilica Street. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces. Wrap up your shopping with a drink and some pastries at a cozy cafe.
A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Zagreb is the fantastic Ribnjak Park. As an appreciated park and local gem in the area, Ribnjak Park has earned an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,349 reviews.
Get a last taste of Croatia’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Zagreb and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Croatia, Hungary, and Bosnia & Herzegovina.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tagliata, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
The time has come to say farewell to Zagreb for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 7-day European road trip in Croatia, Hungary, and Bosnia & Herzegovina with fond memories. Safe travels!
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