Affordable 9-Day Relaxed Croatia Road Trip Vacation from Zagreb to Karlovac

Your slow-paced and relaxed road trip through Croatia begins when you reach Zagreb, where you’ll stay for a total of 6 nights.

Zagreb is an outstanding hub for culture, comfort, and exploration. Around 1,400 visitors have rated this fascinating best-rated sightseeing destination and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Exploring the food culture in Zagreb offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip.

An excellent example is HERITAGE - Croatian Street Food & Shop. This restaurant offers a menu of comforting meals and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,369 customers.

If you’re curious about what Zagreb looks like at night, a trip to some of the best bars near your accommodation is what you need next. Experience the local nightlife at Vintage Industrial Bar, our top recommendation in the city. Customers have rated this bar an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,500 reviews.

Hub Cooltura Pub offers a variety of refreshing drinks and is one of the best places to relax in Zagreb. This well-known city bar is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,249 customers.

Locals like unwinding at Mr. Fogg. This bar has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,233 customers and is a perfect place for socializing.

Free your mind of worries and enjoy your first taste of relaxation in Croatia! Expect more to come as you continue this laid-back and relaxed road trip in Croatia!

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Croatia, you’ll explore the area around Zagreb, where you’ll be staying for another 5 nights.

Around 15,180 visitors rated their experience at this well-known attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

This local attraction is an amazing park that has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,263 visitors.

A stop at the outstanding Zagreb Cathedral will make your slow-paced and relaxed road trip in Croatia more memorable. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 16,381 visitors, a stop at this local attraction during your leisurely self-drive through Croatia is a chance to gain another experience worth sharing.

Ban Josip Jelačić Statue is a well-loved must-see tourist destination by locals and tourists alike, and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,613 visitors.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Croatia by joining a traveler-approved tour in Zagreb. Tours offer an opportunity to get to know more about Zagreb and the unique culture of the country.

There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Zagreb that will make your self-drive tour in Croatia more memorable.

After satisfying your wanderlust, you’ll head to your accommodation in the city of Zagreb for some rest and relaxation. Immerse yourself in the local food culture of Croatia by eating at one of the best restaurants in Zagreb.

With an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 800 customers, the dining experience Roots - juice & cocktail bar offers is the perfect complement to your relaxed road trip in Croatia.

Restoran Vegehop is another pleasant place to eat in Zagreb. This restaurant offers a menu of delectable dishes and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 760 customers.

If you’re looking for a restaurant that locals enjoy, check out Vinodol and try their flavorful menu. This local favorite has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,410 customers.

When you’re in the mood for an after-dinner drink, visit one of the best bars in the city. At Swanky Monkey Garden, you can relax or make friends with locals and fellow travelers. This bar in Zagreb is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,237 customers.

You can also unwind and enjoy a few drinks at Dubravkin put, another well-known bar in Zagreb. Customers have rated this city bar an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,365 reviews.

Another top-rated bar with a unique vibe is Cheese Bar. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,097 customers, Cheese Bar is one of the best places to end a laid-back tour of Zagreb.

Get cozy and have fun because this is what your relaxed road trip in Croatia is all about!

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip across Croatia, you’ll explore the area around Zagreb, where you’ll be staying for another 4 nights.

Around 19,174 visitors rated their experience at this well-known attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

This local attraction is an amazing museum that has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,180 visitors.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Croatia by joining a traveler-approved tour in Zagreb. Tours offer an opportunity to get to know more about Zagreb and the unique culture of the country.

There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Zagreb that will make your self-drive tour in Croatia more memorable.

After satisfying your wanderlust, you’ll head to your accommodation in the city of Zagreb for some rest and relaxation. Immerse yourself in the local food culture of Croatia by eating at one of the best restaurants in Zagreb.

With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 4,156 customers, the dining experience Pivnica Medvedgrad Ilica offers is the perfect complement to your relaxed road trip in Croatia.

Boban is another pleasant place to eat in Zagreb. This restaurant offers a menu of delectable dishes and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,445 customers.

If you’re looking for a restaurant that locals enjoy, check out Submarine Burger Frankopanska and try their flavorful menu. This local favorite has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,795 customers.

When you’re in the mood for an after-dinner drink, visit one of the best bars in the city. At Valhalla beer bar, you can relax or make friends with locals and fellow travelers. This bar in Zagreb is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,010 customers.

You can also unwind and enjoy a few drinks at Roots - juice & cocktail bar, another well-known bar in Zagreb. Customers have rated this city bar an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 800 reviews.

Get cozy and have fun because this is what your relaxed road trip in Croatia is all about!

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Croatia, you’ll explore the area around Zagreb, where you’ll be staying for another 3 nights.

Around 3,997 visitors rated their experience at this well-known attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

This local attraction is an amazing museum that has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,957 visitors.

A stop at the outstanding Lotrščak Tower will make your slow-paced and relaxed road trip in Croatia more memorable. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,480 visitors, a stop at this local attraction during your leisurely self-drive through Croatia is a chance to gain another experience worth sharing.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Croatia by joining a traveler-approved tour in Zagreb. Tours offer an opportunity to get to know more about Zagreb and the unique culture of the country.

There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Zagreb that will make your self-drive tour in Croatia more memorable.

After satisfying your wanderlust, you’ll head to your accommodation in the city of Zagreb for some rest and relaxation. Immerse yourself in the local food culture of Croatia by eating at one of the best restaurants in Zagreb.

With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,602 customers, the dining experience Harat's Pub offers is the perfect complement to your relaxed road trip in Croatia.

Stari Fijaker is another pleasant place to eat in Zagreb. This restaurant offers a menu of delectable dishes and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,114 customers.

When you’re in the mood for an after-dinner drink, visit one of the best bars in the city. At Booze and Blues, you can relax or make friends with locals and fellow travelers. This bar in Zagreb is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 848 customers.

You can also unwind and enjoy a few drinks at A’e Craft Bar, another well-known bar in Zagreb. Customers have rated this city bar an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 705 reviews.

Another top-rated bar with a unique vibe is Program Bar. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 637 customers, Program Bar is one of the best places to end a laid-back tour of Zagreb.

Get cozy and have fun because this is what your relaxed road trip in Croatia is all about!

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Croatia, you’ll explore the area around Grad Krapina, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights.

Around 1,949 visitors rated their experience at this well-known attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

This local attraction is an amazing museum that has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,163 visitors.

A stop at the outstanding Museum of Neandertals in Krapina will make your slow-paced and relaxed road trip in Croatia more memorable. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,565 visitors, a stop at this local attraction during your leisurely self-drive through Croatia is a chance to gain another experience worth sharing.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Croatia by joining a traveler-approved tour in Grad Krapina. Tours offer an opportunity to get to know more about Grad Krapina and the unique culture of the country.

There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Grad Krapina that will make your self-drive tour in Croatia more memorable.

After satisfying your wanderlust, you’ll head to your accommodation in the city of Zagreb for some rest and relaxation. Immerse yourself in the local food culture of Croatia by eating at one of the best restaurants in Zagreb.

With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,110 customers, the dining experience Konoba Didov san offers is the perfect complement to your relaxed road trip in Croatia.

When you’re in the mood for an after-dinner drink, visit one of the best bars in the city. At Krolo, you can relax or make friends with locals and fellow travelers. This bar in Zagreb is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 520 customers.

You can also unwind and enjoy a few drinks at Pivnica Medvedgrad Ilica, another well-known bar in Zagreb. Customers have rated this city bar an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 4,156 reviews.

Get cozy and have fun because this is what your relaxed road trip in Croatia is all about!

Day 6 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Croatia gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience two places in one day. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Karlovac County, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 2 nights.

When you’re ready to head to your first attraction of the day, the wonderful Nehaj Fortress is waiting for you. This fortress has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,527 visitors.

The next stop on your road trip vacation is Plaža Prva Draga. This unique best-rated sightseeing destination is a highly recommended place to visit, rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,077 visitors.

Don’t forget to make a stop at the incredible Senj City Museum. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 120 visitors, this museum is one of the top sights to visit in the area.

Make the most of your relaxed road trip vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Lika-Senj County has in store for you. There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your relaxed road trip in Croatia. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

Turn on some soothing tunes in the car because it’s now time to drive to the city of Karlovac County. In Karlovac County, you can choose among the best hotels and places to rest and recharge to complement your relaxed road trip experience in Croatia.

With a lovely menu and an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,119 customers, you can’t go wrong with choosing Restoran Mandić.

Locals also recommend Bistro Kastel as one of the top restaurants in the area. So if you’re feeling hungry, don’t forget to check out the menu at Bistro Kastel as well. This local-favorite restaurant is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 836 customers.

If you feel like having something else, you could also book a table at Pizzeria Tiffany Karlovac. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,786 customers.

If you would like to celebrate your vacation with a drink, we recommend going to a place like Hollywood cafe. Hollywood cafe is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 699 customers and is one of the best bars you can visit tonight.

Another lively bar worth checking out tonight is Papa's Bar. This is the perfect place to enjoy a couple of drinks if you want to continue your celebrations. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,487 customers gives you an idea of what to expect from this bar.

Alternatively, head to GP. This popular bar will bring up your mood and give you a good ending to your night. GP is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,112 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration and anticipation of your memorable and relaxing road trip adventure through Croatia!

On day 7 of your relaxed road trip across Croatia, you’ll explore the area around Karlovac County, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night.

Around 414 visitors rated their experience at this well-known attraction an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars.

This local attraction is an amazing museum that has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,123 visitors.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Croatia by joining a traveler-approved tour in Karlovac County. Tours offer an opportunity to get to know more about Karlovac County and the unique culture of the country.

There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Karlovac County that will make your self-drive tour in Croatia more memorable.

After satisfying your wanderlust, you’ll head to your accommodation in the city of Karlovac County for some rest and relaxation. Immerse yourself in the local food culture of Croatia by eating at one of the best restaurants in Karlovac County.

With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,552 customers, the dining experience Castle Bistro offers is the perfect complement to your relaxed road trip in Croatia.

Kvaka is another pleasant place to eat in Karlovac County. This restaurant offers a menu of delectable dishes and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 979 customers.

If you’re looking for a restaurant that locals enjoy, check out Konoba Kostanjac and try their flavorful menu. This local favorite has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 756 customers.

When you’re in the mood for an after-dinner drink, visit one of the best bars in the city. At Ćevabdžinica Behar, you can relax or make friends with locals and fellow travelers. This bar in Karlovac County is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 949 customers.

You can also unwind and enjoy a few drinks at Choco Caffe Bar, another well-known bar in Karlovac County. Customers have rated this city bar an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 533 reviews.

Another top-rated bar with a unique vibe is Catalpa Lounge Bar. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 452 customers, Catalpa Lounge Bar is one of the best places to end a laid-back tour of Karlovac County.

Get cozy and have fun because this is what your relaxed road trip in Croatia is all about!

Day 8 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Croatia gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience two places in one day. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Zagreb, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

When you’re ready to head to your first attraction of the day, the wonderful Ecopark Krašograd is waiting for you. This must-see tourist destination has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,578 visitors.

The next stop on your road trip vacation is Žumberak and Samobor Mountains. This unique park is a highly recommended place to visit, rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 3,325 visitors.

Don’t forget to make a stop at the incredible Samobor Castle. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,929 visitors, this castle is one of the top sights to visit in the area.

Another unforgettable travel destination is the outstanding King Tomislav Square. This popular top-tier point of interest and attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 973 people.

If you’re keen to continue your discovery, make your way to Kipišće Lake. This attraction is a valued park in the area that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,233 visitors.

There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your relaxed road trip in Croatia. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

Turn on some soothing tunes in the car because it’s now time to drive to the city of Zagreb. In Zagreb, you can choose among the best hotels and places to rest and recharge to complement your relaxed road trip experience in Croatia.

This is the perfect place to enjoy a couple of drinks if you want to continue your celebrations.

This popular bar will bring up your mood and give you a good ending to your night.

Raise your glass in celebration and anticipation of your memorable and relaxing road trip adventure through Croatia!

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip in Croatia is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Zagreb.

Depending on when you need to leave, you might be able to fit in some sightseeing or shopping. To end your relaxing road trip in Croatia on top, we recommend visiting some of the following attractions.

Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb is an extraordinary attraction that is perfect for your last day in Zagreb. This top sight is a popular top-tier point of interest, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,945 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 9 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Zagreb or just grab something light to keep you going.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Zagreb and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 9-day relaxed road trip in Croatia is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.