5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zagreb traveling east to Osijek
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Description
Explore the best of Croatia on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Zagreb, Osijek, and Vukovar. This road trip itinerary in Croatia seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Croatia takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Zagreb and 1 night in Osijek. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Croatia. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Zagreb, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Croatia on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Croatia. Zagreb Zoo and Ban Josip Jelačić Statue are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Park Maksimir, learn more about the unique Zagreb Cathedral, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Bundek.
As you hit the open road and drive through Zagreb, Osijek, and Vukovar, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Croatia. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Croatia.
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 package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Croatia fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Croatia today!
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Day 1
- Zagreb - Arrival day
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- Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
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Your road trip adventure in Croatia begins as soon as you reach Zagreb and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Zagreb for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Zagreb is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Ban Josip Jelačić Statue, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Zagreb. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Zagreb, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Zinfandel's Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Zagreb. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Rougemarin City. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zagreb this evening.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Tesla New Generation, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Caffe Bar Destino provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Booze And Blues offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Croatia!
Day 2
- Zagreb
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Drive 18 km, 52 min
- Museum of Broken Relationships
- Stone Gate
- Nikola Tesla Technical Museum
- Bundek City Park
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Day 2 of your road trip across Croatia promises a magnificent time exploring Zagreb. You have 1 night left in Zagreb. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Zagreb. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Museum Of Broken Relationships is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most locally appreciated places to visit in Zagreb. Next, head to Stone Gate, a locally appreciated historical landmark, known for its romantic 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 Technical Museum. This respected museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Bundek. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Restoran Taurus, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Trilogija - Vino & Kuhinja offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Pizzeria Park is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Zagreb.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Krolo after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Kavana Corso for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Valhalla Beer Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Croatia!
Day 3
- Zagreb
- Osijek
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Drive 290 km, 3 hours 11 min
- Cathedral of Zagreb
- Botanical Garden of the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb
- Park Maksimir
- Zagreb Zoo
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On day 3 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 Zagreb. In the evening, you’ll end up in Osijek, where you will stay for 1 night.
Get ready for an exciting day in Zagreb. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a church, a botanical garden, a park, a zoo and much more! Begin your adventure at Zagreb Cathedral. This is a locally renowned church you should not miss. Another must-see is Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb, an increasingly popular botanical garden in Zagreb.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Park Maksimir. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Zagreb Zoo, another of the city’s well-known attractions.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Osijek. Osijek offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you explore more of Osijek, 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Ćevapdžinica More, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, McDonald's & McDrive offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Pizzeria La Rosa is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Osijek.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Barcelona Pub, known for its inviting atmosphere. Amsterdam Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Pivnica Runda provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!
Day 4
- Osijek
- Zagreb
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Drive 350 km, 4 hours 11 min
- Memorijalni centar Domovinskog rata
- Ovcara Memorial Center
- Vukovar water tower
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Vukovar, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Zagreb. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Osijek, featuring fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Start at Memorijalni Centar Domovinskog Rata, a locally appreciated museum in the town. Then, head to Ovcara Memorial Center and soak in the ambiance of this photogenic war memorial.
There are many interesting places to see in Osijek, and when you are ready for more, go to Vukovar Water Tower. This is one of the town’s most up-and-coming respected spots of interest.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Zagreb. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Zagreb's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Roots - juice & cocktail bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Štruk offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Tagliata. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zagreb.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, A’e Craft Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Budbar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Mr. Fogg is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Head back to your accommodation in Zagreb and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 5
- Zagreb - Departure day
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- Ribnjak Park
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Day 5 of your road trip in Croatia is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Zagreb before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Ribnjak Park, a mesmerizing park before you head out.
Maximize your last day in Croatia and go on a shopping spree in Zagreb’s shopping center, the lively Arena Centar. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Croatia. Take one last moment to soak in Croatia, and unwind with tea or coffee at a cozy cafe.
Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Zagreb.
Dine in style at Batak Grill, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, GOSTIONICA RESTORAN PURGER boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
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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