9-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Croatia, Slovenia, and Austria With Itinerary from Zagreb to Vienna, Celje, and Ljubljana
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Description
Explore Croatia, Slovenia, and Austria on an epic 9-day European road trip. Zagreb, Grad Krapina, Vienna, Celje, and Bled await!
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 3 nights in Croatia, 2 nights in Slovenia, and 3 nights in Austria.
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 and Grad Krapina, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.
Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of Slovenia. Immerse yourself in the allure of Celje, Bled, Veliki Otok, Predjama, and Ljubljana, where every street tells a story.
Continuing your journey, you'll step into the captivating realm of Austria. This country's charm is boundless, and you'll be impressed by the wonders of Vienna.
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, Slovenia, and Austria 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 9-day self-drive adventure in Croatia, Slovenia, and Austria. 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, Slovenia, and Austria.
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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- Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Croatia, Slovenia, and Austria 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 2 nights.
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.
In Zagreb, the extraordinary Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb awaits. This attraction is a valued performing arts theater that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,049 travelers' 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.
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, Slovenia, and Austria 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Zinfandel's 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 Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, 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 Rougemarin City, a hidden gem nestled in Zagreb. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Continue your lively evening at Tesla New Generation, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Caffe Bar Destino is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Booze And Blues ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Your multi-country road trip in Croatia, Slovenia, and Austria 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
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Drive 24 km, 1 hour 7 min
- Bundek City Park
- Botanical Garden of the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb
- Ribnjak Park
- Park Maksimir
- Zagreb Zoo
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Day 2 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Zagreb. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.
Bundek 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 15,435 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 Ribnjak Park. This popular sight is an outstanding park, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,349 travelers.
Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Park Maksimir. This park and place of interest has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 19,618 reviews.
If you’re keen to explore even more, the fantastic Zagreb Zoo awaits. This zoo is a tourist hot spot, garnering an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 24,493 visitors.
As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Zagreb. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.
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.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Krolo is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Kavana Corso, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Valhalla Beer Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
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 3
- Zagreb
- Grad Krapina
- Vienna
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Drive 385 km, 4 hours 37 min
- Nikola Tesla Technical Museum
- Stone Gate
- Museum of Neandertals in Krapina
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On day 3 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Croatia, Slovenia, and Austria, 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 Vienna, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.
One place travelers keep coming back to in Zagreb is the magnificent Technical Museum. Around 6,422 visitors have rated this excellent museum and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.
We also recommend you explore the amazing Stone Gate on this leg of your adventure in Croatia. This attraction is a well-known historical landmark that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from around 5,706 travelers.
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 Grad Krapina. Your travel time is around 53 min.
One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Museum Of Neandertals In Krapina. This outstanding museum and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 5,734 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Museum Of Neandertals In Krapina is worth pages in your travel diary.
An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Vienna’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.
By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Vienna. 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, Slovenia, and Austria.
Experience a harmony of flavors at Amador in Vienna by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, Amador offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative and contemporary menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Mraz & Sohn, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Steirereck im Stadtpark, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative and contemporary menu.
Keep the evening going at Tapete Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Star Inn Hotel Wien Schönbrunn, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Kruger’s American Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Take in the ambiance of Vienna as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!
Day 4
- Vienna
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Drive 16 km, 1 hour 10 min
- Hofburg Palace
- MuseumsQuartier
- Schönbrunn Palace
- Schönbrunn Zoo
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Wake up and see what day 4 of your great European road trip in Croatia, Slovenia, and Austria has in store for you! You will be staying in Vienna for 2 nights before continuing your journey to the next destination.
A tour of Vienna is not complete without a visit to the famous Hofburg Palace. This incredible palace and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 47,614 travelers.
Make the most of your Vienna travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Museumsquartier. This museum and unique destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,351 travelers.
You can then move on to the incredible Schönbrunn Palace for an experience worth remembering. This local palace and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 147,071 visitors.
As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Vienna boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Austria.
Dine in style at Boutiquehotel Stadthalle, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Ofenloch boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Flanagans. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Vienna.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Miranda Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Josef Cocktailbar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Roberto American Bar Ii, another top-rated place in the area.
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 5
- Vienna
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Drive 26 km, 1 hour 18 min
- Prater
- Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel
- Schönbrunn Palace Park
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On day 5, you will wake up in Vienna with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Vienna before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Croatia, Slovenia, and Austria.
Something that makes Vienna the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding amusement park, Prater. This local gem has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 115,600 visitors.
The famous Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Vienna's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 38,136 travelers have rated this incredible observation deck and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in reviews.
Vienna is also home to the extraordinary Schönbrunn Palace, which boasts a 4.8 out of 5 star rating in 54,108 traveler reviews.
If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Croatia, Slovenia, and Austria, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Vienna. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Puerstner, a top-rated dining spot in Vienna. If you're in the mood for something new, try Vollpension, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Zum Schwarzen Kameel. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Vienna.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Loos American Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Brandauer Bierstube also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!
Day 6
- Vienna
- Celje
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Drive 319 km, 3 hours 48 min
- St. Stephen's Cathedral
- Vienna State Opera
- Citypark
- Belvedere Palace
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On day 6 of your multi-country road trip across Croatia, Slovenia, and Austria, 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 Vienna in Austria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Celje, where you will stay for 1 night.
One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable St. Stephen's Cathedral. This outstanding church and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 105,471 travelers, a visit to the remarkable St. Stephen's Cathedral is worth pages in your travel diary.
The fascinating Vienna State Opera is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This opera house and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 50,516 travelers.
This day is also your chance to see the amazing park, Stadtpark. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 27,605 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.
The top-rated Belvedere Palace Chapel, an outstanding church, is one place you should visit while in Vienna considering its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 67,468 travelers.
After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Celje. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.
Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Slovenia's delectable cuisine at one of Celje's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.
Make sure to reserve a table at OTOKI japanese restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Celje. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Oaza 2.0, a popular restaurant in Celje. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Hotel Evropa, a hidden gem nestled in Celje. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar Vrtnica, known for its inviting atmosphere. Flamingo Beach & Lounge Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Branibor Pub 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 7
- Celje
- Bled
- Veliki Otok
- Predjama
- Ljubljana
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Drive 312 km, 3 hours 58 min
- Bled Castle
- Lake Bled
- Postojna Cave
- Predjama Castle
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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Croatia, Slovenia, and Austria. Today's main destinations are Bled in Slovenia, 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 Ljubljana. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bled. This car ride takes around 1 hour 28 min.
Bled Castle is a travelers’ favorite in Bled, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 27,969 visitors.
In Bled, don’t miss Lake Bled, a great lake and place to see in the town. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 7,609 reviews.
Veliki Otok’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bled behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 7 min. Veliki Otok welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated cave and attraction in Veliki Otok — Postojna Cave. About 44,335 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Predjama, 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 Veliki Otok to Predjama may take around 15 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Predjama, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Predjama today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Predjama Castle. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,889 visitors.
After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Ljubljana. 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.
In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Ljubljana’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Croatia, Slovenia, and Austria.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in Ljubljana by reserving a table at Restavracija Strelec. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern and creative cuisine. Looking for something different? Dubočica restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Ljubljana.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Platana Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Dnevni Bar Pri Klobasarju Urška Košir S. P. Offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Ljubljana. Žmauc is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Celebrate day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 8
- Ljubljana
- Zagreb
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Drive 145 km, 2 hours 40 min
- Ljubljana Castle
- Dragon Bridge
- Prešeren Square
- Congress Square
- Tivoli City Park
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Ljubljana in Slovenia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zagreb, your home for 1 night.
In Ljubljana, the extraordinary Ljubljana Castle awaits. This attraction is a valued castle that boasts an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 36,179 travelers' reviews.
Another of the best travel destinations in Ljubljana is the spectacular Dragon Bridge. This attraction is a monument that is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 17,293 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.
You could then travel to the amazing Prešeren Square. This local public square and wonder has an overall review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 10,673 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.
Congress Square is another attraction you might want to add to your Ljubljana exploration itinerary. This public square is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,801 reviews.
If you’re interested in seeing something outstanding today, consider dropping by a well-loved spot among locals — Tivoli City Park. More than a popular park and attraction, Tivoli City Park offers visitors an immersive journey of the rich cultural tapestry of Ljubljana. Tivoli City Park boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,401 traveler reviews.
After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Zagreb of your choice.
As the sun sets on day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Zagreb's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Croatia 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, Zagreb has them.
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.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at A’e Craft Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Budbar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Mr. Fogg. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
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 9
- Zagreb - Departure day
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- Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
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On day 9 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, Slovenia, and Austria. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.
As your final day in Croatia unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Zagreb's best shopping area, Centar Cvjetni. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Croatia. When you need a break, visit a cafe and relax with a cup of coffee or tea.
Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated monument and attraction in Zagreb — Ban Josip Jelačić Statue. About 20,166 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.
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, Slovenia, and Austria.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Museum of Broken Relationships, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, GOSTIONICA RESTORAN PURGER offers an enticing alternative with its varied 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 9-day European road trip in Croatia, Slovenia, and Austria with fond memories. Safe travels!
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