Top 3 Itineraries in Zagreb

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By Justin Crabbe

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Introduction

Get ahead of planning with the top 3 itineraries in Zagreb! From iconic landmarks like Zoo Zagreb and Ban Josip Jelačić Statue to local hangouts tucked away in charming neighborhoods, these itineraries cover it all. Keep reading to learn more!

A well-designed Zagreb itinerary should capture the essence of the city by blending sightseeing with authentic local experiences. Crafting the perfect itinerary can take many hours of research and planning if you don’t know where to start.

To simplify your planning, we have reviewed the biggest selection of vacation packages in Zagreb and curated the top 3 best itineraries. These travel plans cover everything you need to consider when planning a trip to Zagreb.

For the ultimate experience, you’ll also need the perfect place to stay. Luckily, the list of top-rated hotels in Zagreb includes options for every budget and preference.

So, why wait? Scroll down to discover 3 perfect itineraries for Zagreb!

Popular Types of Trips to Zagreb

No matter how long you plan to stay, there’s a perfect trip to Zagreb.

If you only have a few days, Zagreb weekend getaways are the perfect option. A 3 to 5-day stay in Zagreb offers just enough time to soak in the highlights

For a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation, city breaks in Zagreb are ideal. With a few extra days, you can dive deeper into Zagreb’s most iconic landmarks, stroll through charming neighborhoods, and savor local cuisine at a leisurely pace.

For those who crave freedom and discovery, road trips through Zagreb offer the perfect opportunity to explore beyond the city. With the open road ahead, you’ll uncover Croatia's most scenic landscapes, visit charming towns, and discover hidden gems along the way.

Explore all the best trips for every travel style below and make your next trip to Zagreb truly unforgettable!

Find Trips to Zagreb

If you’re as convinced as we are that Zagreb belongs on your bucket list, you're in luck. The best trips to Zagreb are just a quick search away.

Enter your dates below to discover the best travel packages in Zagreb and start planning your next trip!

The Top 3 Best Zagreb Travel Itineraries

Discover the perfect Zagreb itinerary with our handpicked list. Whether you're in Zagreb for a short stay or a longer visit, there's an itinerary for you.

With detailed routes, top attractions, and insider tips, these 3 itineraries will help you experience the best of Zagreb without missing a thing. Dive into our list and learn how to plan the ultimate trip to Zagreb!

3. The Ultimate 10-Day Road Trip Itinerary Through Zagreb and Beyond

Photo of aerial view of Zagreb, Croatia.

A scenic 10-day road trip through Rijeka, Rovinj, Opatija, Fažana, and Karlovac is one of the best ways to experience Croatia. With the freedom to travel at your own pace, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to make spontaneous stops between the planned activities on your itinerary.

A 10-day itinerary means that Zagreb can easily be combined with other top destinations in Croatia without stress. While it’s possible to travel between Rijeka, Rovinj, Opatija, Fažana, and Karlovac by public transport, renting a car in Croatia opens up a whole new level of freedom!

So, with 10 days to spend, all you need is a rental car, some hotel reservations, and this iconic road trip itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Pula

Begin your road trip adventure by picking up your rental car at the airport upon arrival in Pula. Drive to your centrally located hotel, which offers convenient access to local attractions. Spend the day exploring nearby sights, and in the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional flavors and soaking up the atmosphere.

Day 2: Explore Pula

  • Destinations: Pula
  • Driving distance: 12.35 km, approx. 51 minutes
  • Accommodation: hotel in Senj, e.g., Apartments Luka
  • Sightseeing: Zerostrasse, Forum Square, Temple of Augustus, Aquarium Pula, and Pula Citadel
Set out on a day of discovery and visit Zerostrasse, Forum Square, Temple of Augustus, Aquarium Pula, and Pula Citadel. Take time to enjoy the scenery and local highlights of Pula, with the freedom to stop at whatever sight catches your interest.

Day 3: Discover Opatija, Vela Učka, Bela Vodica, and Sopač

  • Destinations: Opatija, Vela Učka, Bela Vodica, and Sopač
  • Driving distance: 258.66 km, approx. 3 hours and 35 minutes
  • Accommodation: hotel in Zadar, e.g., Vila Siega
  • Sightseeing: Maiden with the Seagull, Forest Park Golubinjak, Risnjak National Park, Nature Park Učka, and Slatina
  • Recommended tour: Zadar City Tour 120min Walk
Spend the day exploring Maiden with the Seagull, Forest Park Golubinjak, Risnjak National Park, Nature Park Učka, and Slatina. Take scenic drives or walking tours to experience the area’s charm at your own pace. End the day by checking into a new hotel, conveniently located in central Zadar.

Day 4: Experience Karlovac and Zagreb

  • Destinations: Karlovac and Zagreb
  • Driving distance: 63.35 km, approx. 1 hour and 20 minutes
  • Accommodation: hotel in Zadar, e.g., Vila Siega
  • Sightseeing: Cathedral of Zagreb, Ban Josip Jelačić Statue, Aquatika, and Park Ribnjak
  • Recommended tour: Zadar Historical Guided Walking Tour
Continue your journey through Karlovac and Zagreb, where you can explore Cathedral of Zagreb, Ban Josip Jelačić Statue, Aquatika, and Park Ribnjak. Make time for a break at a cozy café or scenic picnic spot. Wrap up the day by checking in at a hotel in the heart of Zadar.

Day 5: Enjoy Sightseeing in Zagreb

  • Destinations: Zagreb
  • Driving distance: 24.85 km, approx. 1 hour and 13 minutes
  • Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Šibenik, e.g., Heritage Hotel Armerun
  • Sightseeing: Botanical Garden of the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Zoo Zagreb, Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb, Bundek City Park, and Park Maksimir
  • Recommended tour: Kornati Private Boat Tour Experience
Drive through Zagreb, stopping to visit Botanical Garden of the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Zoo Zagreb, Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb, Bundek City Park, and Park Maksimir. Don't forget to embrace the opportunity to explore smaller towns and hidden gems along the way.

Day 6: Embrace the Spirit of Zagreb

Spend time discovering Stone Gate, Museum of Broken Relationships, Lotrščak Tower, and Church of St. Mark, with plenty of opportunities to engage in outdoor activities or enjoy local culture.

Day 7: Spend Time in Rijeka and Zagreb

Explore Zagreb Central Mosque, Church of Mary of God of Trsat, Trsat Castle, and Nikola Tesla Technical Museum at a relaxed pace. Make spontaneous stops for sightseeing, photography, or lunch at a family-run restaurant. Finish the day by checking into another comfortable hotel in the center of Zagreb.

Day 8: Explore Rošini, Gedići, and Općina Brtonigla

  • Destinations: Rošini, Gedići, and Općina Brtonigla
  • Driving distance: 81.48 km, approx. 1 hour and 24 minutes
  • Accommodation: 5-star hotel in Rijeka, e.g., Hotel Ambasador
  • Sightseeing: Jama - Grotta Baredine, MOTODROM POREC, and Aquapark Istralandia
Continue your road trip through Rošini, Gedići, and Općina Brtonigla, enjoying the flexibility to explore Jama - Grotta Baredine, MOTODROM POREC, and Aquapark Istralandia and nearby points of interest. As the day winds down, arrive at a new hotel in central Rijeka.

Day 9: Wander Through Rovinj, Fažana, Korenići, and Svetvinčenat

  • Destinations: Rovinj, Fažana, Korenići, and Svetvinčenat
  • Driving distance: 110.01 km, approx. 2 hours and 18 minutes
  • Accommodation: 5-star hotel in Pula, e.g., Grand Hotel Brioni Pula, A Radisson Collection Hotel
  • Sightseeing: Church of St. Euphemia, Morosini - Grimani Castle, Dvigrad ruins, Park forest Zlatni Rt, and Fasana
Visit Church of St. Euphemia, Morosini - Grimani Castle, Dvigrad ruins, Park forest Zlatni Rt, and Fasana as you navigate scenic routes. Take time to enjoy local markets, trails, or viewpoints that catch your eye. At the end of the day, check-in at a comfortable hotel in central Pula.

Day 10: Bid Farewell to Pula

  • Departure city: Pula
  • Driving distance: 11.63 km, approx. 27 minutes
  • Sightseeing: Verudela Canyon
Savor an hour or two for souvenir shopping or revisiting a favorite spot before it’s time to say goodbye to Pula. Drop off your rental car at the airport a couple of hours before departure for a seamless end to your trip.

The estimated cost for a rental car and accommodations for each night along this route is around 915 EUR, providing a value-for-money way to experience what's beyond Zagreb.

Looking for something different? Explore more road trips with a stop in Zagreb for alternative itineraries, routes, and durations.

2. The Top Recommended 3-Day Zagreb City Itinerary

Photo of scenic view of Zagreb ,Croatia.

Enjoy a 3-day city break in Zagreb with the perfect itinerary, designed to showcase the city’s top sights, local flavors, and hidden corners.

No need to stress over the details – we’ve curated the perfect 3-day itinerary to give you a seamless outline for your trip. Use this itinerary to capture the best of Zagreb without the hassle of planning.

Day 1: Begin Your Journey in Zagreb

Arrive in Zagreb and start your trip with a relaxing walk through town, discovering highlights like Ban Josip Jelačić Statue.

Take in the local charm as you wander the streets, and as evening approaches, indulge in a delicious dinner at a local restaurant. Zinfandel's Restaurant is a top-rated recommendation. Say 'cheers' and set the tone for an amazing vacation ahead!

Day 2: Discover Zagreb's Most Iconic Attractions

Enjoy your first full day in Zagreb by heading out for some must-see sightseeing. Explore around town and visit popular attractions like the iconic Botanical Garden of the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Zoo Zagreb, Park Ribnjak, Bundek City Park, and Park Maksimir.

One of the best ways to quickly learn how to navigate the city is to join one of the many great city sightseeing tours in Zagreb. Choose a walking tour to embrace a relaxed exploration. Alternatively, go for a tour by bus or bike to cover a larger part of Zagreb in the same amount of time.

In the evening, head out for another lovely dinner and raise a glass to a fantastic day of exploring!

Day 3: Savor Your Final Moments in Zagreb

Spend your last few hours in Zagreb soaking up the charm of the city at your own pace. Stroll through favorite spots or revisit local markets before bidding farewell to the city.

We recommend booking your transfers from Zagreb in advance.

For more inspiration, explore the complete selection of city breaks in Zagreb, all including pre-planned itineraries you can customize to suit your style. Start with a ready-to-go Zagreb travel plan and make it your own by selecting tours, accommodations, and more.

1. The Perfect 3-Day Zagreb Weekend Itinerary

Photo of Zagreb, Croatia.

A 3-day weekend getaway in Zagreb offers the perfect break from the hustle of daily life.

However, with a well-planned Zagreb itinerary, you can effortlessly experience the best of the city in just a few days. Picture yourself exploring iconic landmarks, savoring local cuisine, and wandering charming neighborhoods—it's all within reach as long as you know how to plan your trip properly.

With 3 days to spend, this is the perfect Zagreb weekend itinerary for your trip:

Day 1 - Arrive in Zagreb

Arrive in Zagreb around noon and head to your hotel for an early check-in.
  • Morning: Take some time to relax and refresh after your journey, or get a head start by visiting a nearby landmark.
  • Afternoon: Ease into your trip with some sightseeing, for example, visiting Ban Josip Jelačić Statue, and soak in the surroundings.
  • Evening: Dine at a popular restaurant and celebrate the start of the vacation with some drinks.
  • Tip: Book an airport transfer to Zagreb in advance for a smooth journey. End the day with an evening stroll for an enchanting first glimpse of Zagreb by night.

Day 2 - Discover Zagreb’s Famous Sights

Maximize your first full day in Zagreb with sightseeing, food, and drinks.
  • Morning: Visit Botanical Garden of the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb early to avoid crowds and enjoy the views.
  • Afternoon: Continue to Park Ribnjak, stopping by Zoo Zagreb for a break and some photos.
  • Evening: Dine at a popular restaurant and cap off the day at a local bar.
  • Tip: Use part of the morning to join one of the many city sightseeing tours in Zagreb and get a guided journey through the top attractions in the city.

Day 3 - Depart from Zagreb

Make the most of your last few hours in Zagreb before your departure.
  • Morning: Grab a light breakfast at a local bakery or café and take a final stroll nearby.
  • Afternoon: If you have time, do some last-minute sightseeing.
For more ideas, explore our complete selection of weekend trips to Zagreb. Whether you’re looking for a quick getaway or want to extend the weekend, these trips all come with pre-planned but customizable Zagreb itineraries, ensuring an effortless travel experience.

What To Discover Next in Zagreb

As you explore Zagreb, you’ll find countless layers of history, art, and local charm waiting to be uncovered.

Finding the right place to stay is essential for a comfortable trip. This is why we've also gathered our top recommendations for the best places to stay in Zagreb for you.

Wherever your journey takes you, we’re here to make every step memorable. From expert tips to local insights, count on us to help you experience Zagreb in a way that feels truly unforgettable!

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