Cheap 10-Day Croatia Road Trip from Zagreb to Grad Varaždin and surrounding area

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Get ready for an exciting vacation without hitting your budget hard with this 10-day cheap road trip in Croatia. Venture into the heart of Zagreb, Staničići Žumberački, Strmec, Samobor, Općina Kumrovec, Desinić, Grad Krapina, Grad Varaždin, and Trakošćan, where every mile is packed with value and excitement. Embrace the freedom of the open road and make memories that last a lifetime, all within your budget.

Explore Croatia for less and on your own terms. This customizable and cheap Croatia travel package promises an exhilarating 10-day adventure. We'll introduce you to many famous and affordable vacation spots in the country.

Stay comfortably at a top-rated budget hotel for 8 nights in Zagreb, and 1 night in Grad Varaždin. Dine with locals at popular restaurants and bars across Croatia and get a taste of the people’s hospitality and authentic food. We'll help you have an unforgettable road trip experience in Croatia at the lowest price!

On arrival in Zagreb, you'll pick up your rental vehicle. From there, you'll begin your journey to the best and cheapest places to travel to in Croatia. Croatia offers a wealth of world-class natural and scenic beauty you wouldn't want to miss!

During your cheap holiday in Croatia, the choice of accommodation is entirely yours. Enjoy the freedom to select the ideal budget-friendly stay that perfectly matches your needs. Rest assured, your affordable accommodation will provide a welcoming retreat after a day of exploration and discovery.

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 affordable holiday package includes everything you need for a fantastic 10-day vacation in Croatia. We'll offer you cheap flights and arrange your hotel reservations for 9 nights. We'll also provide you with the best budget rental car in Croatia with CDW insurance.

You can customize your Croatia travel plan for a more personalized holiday experience. Choose from popular and competitively-priced tours and tickets in Croatia and add your picks to your itinerary. For example, get cheap tour tickets to uncover the stories behind Croatia's famous sights. Or, try out some of the most fantastic excursions. There's no better way to add more culture and inspiration to your trip!

Booking this cheap holiday package in Croatia offers you many perks. You'll get 24/7 travel support. In addition, you'll have access to a step-by-step guide in our mobile app. Here, you'll find all your travel documents organized in one place.

So what are you waiting for? Enjoy a hassle-free vacation in Croatia with this cheap holiday deal! The best and most affordable tours in Croatia fill up fast, so book your adventure today!

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Day 1

Day 1 – Zagreb - arrival day

  • Zagreb - Arrival day
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  • Art Pavilion in Zagreb
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Your exciting road trip through Croatia starts when you reach the incredible city of Zagreb, where you'll stay for 7 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Zagreb and begin your adventure in Croatia.

Zagreb is a popular cheap holiday destination in Croatia with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Croatia, Zagreb is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You’ll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Art Pavilion In Zagreb. This art museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,499 reviews.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Zagreb, where exceptional dining and drinking experiences await at unbeatable prices. Explore the city's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Rougemarin City offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Restoran Taurus is the perfect spot for you!

After your evening meal, enjoy a drink or two at Tesla New Generation, a must-visit destination for a great night out. Locals also enjoy the cocktails at Caffe Bar Destino, where you can relax and have some fun in a welcoming environment. Another fantastic option is Booze And Blues, known for offering a variety of snacks and drinks at affordable prices.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in Croatia!

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Day 2

Day 2 – Zagreb

  • Zagreb
  • More

Drive 8 km, 1 hour 6 min

  • Ribnjak Park
  • Cathedral of Zagreb
  • Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
  • Botanical Garden of the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb
  • Nikola Tesla Technical Museum
  • More

On day 2 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in Croatia, you’ll go deep into Zagreb and see some of the destination’s most unforgettable attractions. Enjoy a feast at the end of the day, making the most of the time you have in the city of Zagreb — 6 nights.

Make Ribnjak Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,349 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Zagreb Cathedral. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 16,501 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this catholic cathedral every year.

Ban Josip Jelačić Statue is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,166 visitors.

When you’re finished at Ban Josip Jelačić Statue, the perfect next stop is Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,694 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Technical Museum. This museum is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,422 reviews.

Visiting the most popular travel destinations in Croatia sometimes leaves you longing for more. Fortunately, there are plenty of unique and cheap tours to try out in Croatia. Croatia has something for everyone, and you can easily pick an activity you can add to your affordable vacation package. Check out all of the budget-friendly tours in Croatia that will fill you with new inspiration.

When it's time to eat or savor a refreshing drink, treat yourself to a delightful dining and drinking experience without paying more than necessary. Zagreb has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Visit Krolo, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots. Kavana Corso serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Zagreb. And if you're looking for a special place to enjoy the evening, our recommendation is Valhalla Beer Bar.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Croatia with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Croatia!

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Day 3

Day 3 – Zagreb

  • Zagreb
  • More

Drive 23 km, 1 hour 12 min

  • Park Maksimir
  • Zagreb Zoo
  • Croatian Museum of Contemporary Art
  • Bundek City Park
  • More

Day 3’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Zagreb, proving that cheap holidays in Croatia can be extraordinary. You have 5 nights left in Zagreb. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

Journey into the unknown at Park Maksimir, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 19,618 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Zagreb Zoo is a recommended place to visit. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 24,493 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Zagreb is Croatian Museum Of Contemporary Art. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,640 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Zagreb offers an experience you will remember.

Bundek is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Zagreb. This lake promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.7 out of 5 stars in 15,435 reviews.

Cheap, budget vacations are nothing but incredible, especially when you’re in Croatia. To have the best affordable travel experience in Croatia, make time for some unique, challenging, or inspiring activities. Adding a tour to your travel plan promises a one-of-a kind adventure that will make your cheap vacation in Croatia unforgettable. Fortunately, you'll find plenty of budget-friendly tours and cheap holiday deals in Croatia.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Zagreb offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Croatia.

Batak Grill stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options. For those craving a casual dining experience, GOSTIONICA RESTORAN PURGER offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Cheese Bar, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Zagreb, A’e Craft Bar. Budbar is another popular bar in the area, perfect for people looking for a place to unwind and enjoy local drinks alone or with company. Locals also recommend Mr. Fogg, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in Croatia! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Zagreb!

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Day 4

Day 4 – Zagreb

  • Zagreb
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Drive 1 km, 20 min

  • Lotrščak Tower
  • Museum of Broken Relationships
  • Stone Gate
  • St. Mark's Church
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Day 4 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories on your cheap holiday in Croatia. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Zagreb and its top sights! Conclude your day with a lovely dinner.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Lotrščak Tower. Previous visitors have rated this fortified tower an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,584 reviews.

Museum Of Broken Relationships is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 7,174 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Stone Gate. This city gate is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,706 reviews.

St. Mark's Church is another outstanding experience in Zagreb. Around 4,135 travelers have rated this church building an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Croatia is a wonderful destination with so much to show and so many stories to tell. To have the most extraordinary time on your low-cost holiday in Croatia, consider adding tours to your affordable tour package to Croatia. Choose from many thrilling to laid back and budget-friendly excursions in Croatia that will add color and uniqueness to your adventure.

Going on cheap, budget vacations in Croatia shouldn’t stop anyone from dining at top-rated restaurants and bars. More than just an affordable travel destination, Zagreb is also home to a variety of excellent dining and drinking spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Restoran ZLATNA ŠKOLJKA, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. RougeMarin is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Otto & Frank.

Esplanade 1925 Lounge & Cocktail Bar is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. Alternatively, Carpe Diem is another excellent place to relax and have a drink or two after a busy day. You might also want to cap the night off at Regular. Bar, a fascinating bar that offers a unique ambiance and a wide selection of cocktails.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday in Croatia!

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Day 5

Day 5 – Zagreb, Staničići Žumberački, and Strmec

  • Zagreb
  • Staničići Žumberački
  • Strmec, Sveta Nedelja
  • More

Drive 127 km, 3 hours 8 min

  • Žumberak and Samobor Mountains
  • More

Get ready for another thrilling road trip adventure both in and around Zagreb on day 5 of your affordable vacation in Croatia. You’ll continue your stay in Zagreb for an additional 3 nights. Explore more top attractions in Croatia, immerse yourself in diverse cultures, and enjoy unique experiences!

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Strmec. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 6 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Žumberak And Samobor Mountains. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 3,354 visitors.

Set your GPS to Strmec and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 6 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 sightseeing of the day begins at Kipišće Lake, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,265 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Playground / Lake Kipiste. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 368 travelers.

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

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Zagreb, where exceptional dining and drinking experiences await at unbeatable prices. Explore the city's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.

Start your foodie adventure at Pri zvoncu, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Šarm restaurant, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Mex Cantina, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

After your evening meal, enjoy a drink or two at Mali Grad, a must-visit destination for a great night out. Locals also enjoy the cocktails at B Blok Caffe Bar, where you can relax and have some fun in a welcoming environment. Another fantastic option is Swanky Monkey Garden, known for offering a variety of snacks and drinks at affordable prices.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Croatia with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Croatia!

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Day 6

Day 6 – Zagreb, and Samobor

  • Zagreb
  • Samobor
  • More

Drive 60 km, 1 hour 46 min

  • Church of St Anastasia
  • King Tomislav Square
  • Samoborski muzej
  • Samobor Castle
  • More

Day 6 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Samobor, proving that cheap holidays in Croatia can be extraordinary. Have fun exploring the best places to visit in the town. At the end of the day, enjoy wining and dining at Zagreb, with 2 nights to stay in the area.

Your discovery of Samobor does not have to stop there. You can add a budget-friendly activity on your itinerary and get to know more about Samobor on a personal level. Check out the fantastic selection of affordable tours and tickets offered on this leg of your journey across this top cheap holiday destination in Europe, Croatia.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Zagreb, where exceptional dining and drinking experiences await at unbeatable prices. Explore the city's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Brenner Grill & Restaurant, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Restoran Palfi is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Johann Franck, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Barbar Xxl offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Zagreb, check out Vintage Industrial Bar. You can also ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination at Buzz Bar.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Croatia with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Croatia!

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Day 7

Day 7 – Zagreb, Općina Kumrovec, Desinić, and Grad Krapina

  • Zagreb
  • Kumrovec
  • Desinić
  • Grad Krapina
  • More

Drive 167 km, 3 hours 3 min

  • "Old Village" Kumrovec
  • The birth house of Josip Broz Tito
  • Dvor Veliki Tabor
  • Museum of Neandertals in Krapina
  • More

Day 7 of your exciting road trip across Croatia is proof that there's more to this country than meets the eye. Today's agenda is to explore Zagreb and its neighboring areas. Expect amazing attractions, a great dining experience, and a wonderful time discovering the daily lives of locals with 1 night left in Zagreb.

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 19 min. Upon your arrival in Desinić, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Kumrovec. This extraordinary municipality of croatia has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,954 visitors.

Next, make your way to The Birth House Of Josip Broz Tito. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,075 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Općina Kumrovec, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Desinić. This drive usually takes around 19 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Dvor Veliki Tabor. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,242 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Grad Krapina. This car ride takes around 38 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Museum Of Neandertals In Krapina. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,734 visitors.

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

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in Zagreb. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

Dezman mini bar offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Il Secondo. Or, try Restoran Vegehop, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at Hub Cooltura Pub and try some of its cocktails and snacks. Caffe Bar Cug is another great place to hang out and unwind. If you want to have a drink or two with locals, you'll want to visit The Beertija, offering the perfect setting to unwind and savor the evening.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Croatia!

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Day 8

Day 8 – Zagreb, and Grad Varaždin

  • Varaždin
  • More

Drive 89 km, 1 hour 25 min

  • Crkva sv Nikola
  • Palača Herzer, GMV Varaždin
  • Varazdin Cathedral
  • More

On day 8 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Croatia, you’ll experience 1 charming destinations — Grad Varaždin. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Grad Varaždin, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Kick off the day at Kapucinska Crkva, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 309 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Church Of St. Nicholas. Church Of St. Nicholas is a church with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 459 reviews.

Palača Herzer, Gmv Varaždin is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 224 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Cathedral Of The Assumption Of The Virgin Mary, Varaždin. This cathedral is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 715 visitors.

While exploring Croatia is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Grad Varaždin has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Grad Varaždin on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Grad Varaždin, where exceptional dining and drinking experiences await at unbeatable prices. Explore the city's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.

Cafe Haustor offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Restoran "Zvonimir" Varaždin. Or, try Restoran Angelus, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Caffe Bar Madera, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Sax - Pub, a bar catering to every mood and preference. My Way Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Croatia with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Croatia!

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Day 9

Day 9 – Grad Varaždin, Trakošćan, and Zagreb

  • Zagreb
  • Varaždin
  • Trakošćan
  • More

Drive 124 km, 2 hours 14 min

  • Varaždin City Museum
  • Old Town, Varaždin
  • Trakošćan Castle
  • More

Day 9 of your road trip across Croatia is another proof that cheap holidays in Croatia can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 2 wonderful destinations — Grad Varaždin, and Trakošćan. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Zagreb, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Varaždin City Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 145 visitors.

Old Town, Varaždin is another popular attraction you could visit today. This castle has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,755 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Trakošćan. This car ride takes around 47 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Trakošćan Castle. This château is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 9,806 reviews.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Zagreb. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Zagreb, relax and restore your energy at your preferred affordable place to stay.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Zagreb offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Croatia.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Mali Medo, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Pivnica Medvedgrad Ilica, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss Konoba Didov san, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Caffe Bar Vespa, known for its lively atmosphere. Coffee Inn is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Tolkien's House offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Zagreb!

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Day 10

Day 10 – Zagreb - departure day

  • Zagreb - Departure day
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  • Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb
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Your budget road trip vacation in Croatia is about to end. Day 10 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Zagreb.

Maximize your last day in Croatia and go on a shopping spree in Zagreb’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Croatia.

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 9,049 visitors.

Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Zagreb.

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Zagreb, consider a top-rated restaurant like HERITAGE - Croatian Street Food & Shop, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Submarine Burger Frankopanska is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Fakin Craft Bar, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Zagreb.

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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