Cheap 9-Day Croatia Road Trip from Zagreb to Grad Krapina and Grad Varaždin and surrounding area

Your exciting road trip through Croatia starts when you reach the incredible city of Zagreb, where you'll stay for 5 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.

Discovering the culinary wonders of Zagreb is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

The dishes at HERITAGE - Croatian Street Food & Shop are crafted to perfection to satisfy your cravings and ignite your sense of adventure without straining your budget. Experience a foodie adventure like no other at Dubravkin put, where bold flavors come together to create a truly unique dining experience. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the rich culinary heritage of Zagreb at Cheese Bar, where time-honored recipes and flavorful treats take center stage.

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Zagreb, Mr. Fogg. This famous bar offers snacks and drinks at different price points and is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,233 bar-goers.

Swanky Monkey Garden is a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. This bar is considered one of the best drinking spots in Zagreb, with its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,237 customers.

Alternatively, you can drop by Valhalla beer bar, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,010 customers.

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

Day 2 means another chance to make the best memories in this cheap holiday destination in Croatia, Zagreb. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Zagreb!

Beyond the above-mentioned locations, today is the perfect opportunity to join a popular activity in Zagreb. Plenty of budget-friendly tours in Zagreb offer enriching experiences that will make your cheap holiday in Croatia worth remembering for a lifetime.

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 long day of exploring, we recommend you try Roots - juice & cocktail bar, one of the top-rated restaurants in the city. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 800 customers and is a great place to relax and enjoy a comforting meal.

Locals also recommend Restoran Vegehop, so you'll want to drop by this place. Restoran Vegehop serves delicious meals in hearty portions and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 760 customers.

Another must-try in the city of Zagreb is Mali Medo. This restaurant boasts an exciting menu and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,203 customers.

Booze and Blues is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 848 customers.

A’e Craft Bar is another excellent place to relax and have a drink or two after a busy day. A’e Craft Bar has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 705 bar-goers, proving it's one of the most popular bars in Zagreb.

You might also want to cap the night off at Program Bar, a fascinating bar that 637 customers have rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in their reviews.

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

Day 3 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories in this cheap holiday destination in Croatia. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Zagreb!

Make your vacation in Croatia more memorable and epic without spending a fortune. Take advantage of the cheap holiday deals you'll find in Croatia and add budget-friendly activities to your travel plan.

Savor the culinary delights of Zagreb, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

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

Enjoy a drink or two at Krolo. Around 520 customers have given this incredible bar an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Locals also enjoy the cocktails at Vintage Industrial Bar, where you can relax and have some fun. Vintage Industrial Bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,500 customers.

Another top-rated bar option is Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, averaging 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,925 reviews. This bar is known for offering a variety of snacks and drinks at affordable prices.

A road trip vacation in Zagreb can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Croatia!

Day 4’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Zagreb, proving that cheap holidays in Croatia can be extraordinary.

Your discovery of Zagreb does not have to stop there. You can add a budget-friendly activity on your itinerary and get to know more about Zagreb 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.

For the best dining experience in this affordable destination, eat at the highly recommended Boban. This restaurant is sure to satisfy your hunger as it has an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,445 customers.

Submarine Burger Frankopanska is another local-favorite restaurant in Zagreb. Submarine Burger Frankopanska serves delicious and affordable meals, and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,795 reviews.

Known for its good food and service, Harat's Pub is also popular among locals and cheap holiday goers in Zagreb. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 of 5 stars from around 2,602 customers.

Hub Cooltura Pub offers many snacks and liquors at different price points and has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,249 customers.

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

Day 5 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.

Krašić’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Grad Jastrebarsko behind. This drive usually takes around 18 min. Krašić welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Staničići Žumberački’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Krašić behind. This drive usually takes around 29 min. Staničići Žumberački welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Žumberak and Samobor Mountains. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 3,339 reviews.

Zagreb’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Staničići Žumberački behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 28 min. Zagreb welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

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

It's now time to discover the mouthwatering delights of Zagreb, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best dining options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate.

Start your culinary adventure at Bota Šare Zagreb restaurant - oyster & sushi bar, where deliciousness and affordability go hand in hand. Explore their tantalizing menu packed with mouthwatering delights. Craving some excitement? Pop over to Stari Fijaker for some appetizing dishes and enticing desserts that'll have you coming back for more.

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

Day 6 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 exploring 3 wonderful destinations — Samobor, Strmec, and Grad Krapina.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Strmec. This car ride takes around 30 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Playground / Lake Kipiste, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 368 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Kipišće Lake. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,241 travelers.

After soaking in Strmec’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Samobor. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 11 min. When you arrive in Samobor, it's time to take a break from the road.

Grad Krapina’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Samobor behind. This drive usually takes around 51 min. Grad Krapina welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

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

It's now time to discover the mouthwatering delights of Grad Krapina, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best dining options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate.

Eat at Pizzeria Picikato. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 784 reviews.

You can also check out Foodbar Garozzo. Offering appetizing foods and refreshing beverages at reasonable prices, this restaurant is an excellent choice for budget travelers. The restaurant is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 241 diners.

Another great restaurant we recommend you go to after your activities is Don Sale. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 132 customers, this restaurant is sure to provide you with a memorable dining experience.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in the city. AUTOTRANSPORTI KUNŠTEK BRANKO is a popular option with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 127 customers.

Another top option is Kramberger PUB & Restoran. This bar offers a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 497 customers.

Cafde Bar Classic is also a great place to continue your evening. This bar is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 71 customers.

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

On day 7 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Croatia, you’ll experience 4 charming destinations — Grad Krapina, Desinić, Općina Kumrovec, and Grad Varaždin. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the town of Grad Varaždin.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Museum of Neandertals in Krapina. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,655 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Općina Kumrovec, 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 Grad Krapina to Općina Kumrovec may take around 41 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Desinić. This car ride takes around 18 min.

After soaking in Desinić’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Grad Varaždin. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 39 min. When you arrive in Grad Varaždin, it's time to take a break from the road.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the town of Grad Varaždin. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Grad Varaždin, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

Savor the culinary delights of Grad Varaždin, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the town offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

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

After dinner, visit Medina Škrinja Pub, which is considered one of the best bars in the town. This bar is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,374 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular place like My Way bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,010 customers.

Alternatively, check out Macuba Bar. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 781 customers.

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

Day 8 of your self-drive vacation in Croatia will take you to the city of Zagreb, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Zagreb, you'll explore 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in Croatia, including Grad Varaždin, Trakošćan, and Zagreb.

Make Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, Varaždin one of your first sightseeing stops in Grad Varaždin. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 700 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Church of St. Nicholas is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This church is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 453 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Old Town, Varaždin. This castle has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,698 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Grad Varaždin, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Trakošćan may take around 47 min. Upon your arrival in Trakošćan, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Trakošćan Castle. This much-appreciated château is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 9,673 reviews.

Zagreb’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Trakošćan behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 18 min. Zagreb welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Zagreb offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Croatia. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

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.

Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options.

A road trip vacation in Grad Varaždin can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Croatia!

Your budget road trip vacation in Croatia is about to end. Day 9 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Zagreb.

As your final day in Croatia unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Zagreb’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Croatia.

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