9-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zagreb to Grad Varaždin and surrounding area

Day 2 of your road trip across Croatia promises a magnificent time exploring Zagreb. You have 5 nights left in Zagreb. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Lower Town (Donji Grad) is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Zagreb, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Zagreb. Begin your sightseeing with Park Maksimir. This locally renowned park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Zagreb Zoo, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Zagreb, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb. This intriguing botanical garden is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Bundek, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Croatia is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Zagreb. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Tač, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional traditional menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Noel, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Zagreb is Beštija, a renowned Bib Gourmand restaurant and a delicious contemporary menu.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Krolo, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Kavana Corso, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Valhalla Beer Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Zagreb for 4 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Zagreb on today’s itinerary. First up is the worthwhile park, Ribnjak Park. Afterward, continue to Zagreb Cathedral, a church every traveler should visit.

As you explore Zagreb’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Ban Josip Jelačić Statue. This captivating monument is an essential stop. Following that, head to Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Technical Museum, an intriguing museum in the city.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Croatia is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Zagreb's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Roots - juice & cocktail bar, a highly-rated dining destination in Zagreb. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Štruk, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Tagliata. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zagreb this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting A’e Craft Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Budbar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Mr. Fogg also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Croatia.

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Zagreb. You’ll stay in Zagreb for 3 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Make sure to visit Upper Town (Gornji Grad), a popular neighborhood in Zagreb. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the worthwhile Strossmayer Promenade, a standout street in Zagreb. Next, go to Lotrščak Tower.

After visiting Strossmayer Promenade and Lotrščak Tower, have a stroll along Zagreb's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Museum Of Broken Relationships. This instagrammable museum offers a unique experience. Stone Gate is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Croatia is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Zagreb's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Batak Grill, a top-rated dining destination in Zagreb. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider GOSTIONICA RESTORAN PURGER, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cheese Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zagreb this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Esplanade 1925 Lounge & Cocktail Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Carpe Diem offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Zagreb. Regular. Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Say good night to Zagreb and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!

Greet day 5 of your road trip in Croatia with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Zagreb for your remaining 2 nights in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Brezovac Žumberački and Samobor.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Zagreb. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await! Žumberak And Samobor Mountains is the perfect place to start. This mountain range is one of the most often recommended places to visit in Zagreb. Next, head to Samobor Castle, a worthwhile castle, known for its instagrammable features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Samoborski Muzej. This heritage-rich museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find King Tomislav Square and Church Of St. Anastasia. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Zagreb's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restoran ZLATNA ŠKOLJKA, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? RougeMarin offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Otto & Frank. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zagreb.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Mali Grad. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to B Blok Caffe Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Swanky Monkey Garden provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Croatia.

On day 6 of your road trip in Croatia, you’ll start and end your day in Zagreb, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Zagreb for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Općina Kumrovec, Desinić, and Grad Krapina to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Whether you decide to explore Zagreb on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Kumrovec is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this awe-inspiring museum before continuing your journey. The Birth House Of Josip Broz Tito is your next stop. This increasingly popular museum is one of the best-rated sights in Zagreb.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Dvor Veliki Tabor. This history-steeped castle is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Museum Of Neandertals In Krapina.

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

As you explore more of Zagreb, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Pri zvoncu, a top-rated dining destination in Zagreb. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Mex Cantina, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Brenner Grill & Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zagreb this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Barbar Xxl, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Vintage Industrial Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Buzz Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Croatia!

On day 7 of your road trip in Croatia, 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 in Trakošćan and Grad Varaždin. In the evening, you’ll end up in Grad Varaždin, where you will stay for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Zagreb today. One of the most locally appreciated attractions included on the itinerary is Trakošćan Castle. This romantic castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Old Town, Varaždin and learn what makes this instagrammable castle unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the up-and-coming Varaždin City Museum.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Grad Varaždin. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Grad Varaždin. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Dine in style at Cafe Haustor, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restoran Angelus boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Medonja. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Grad Varaždin.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Caffe Bar Madera, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Sax - Pub offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out My Way Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Grad Varaždin. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zagreb, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Grad Varaždin includes a church and a museum. Cathedral Of The Assumption Of The Virgin Mary, Varaždin is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Palača Herzer, Gmv Varaždin, a locally appreciated museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Church Of St. Nicholas, a culturally significant church, also available for your discovery today.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Zagreb, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Zagreb. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restoran Palfi, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Johann Franck is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Gallo. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Zagreb tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Hub Cooltura Pub stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Cug offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The Beertija is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Croatia.