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

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Zagreb has to offer. Cherish the 6 nights you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Zagreb.

One of the most iconic spots you can visit today is Lower Town (Donji Grad). Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Enjoy all that Park Maksimir has to offer. This is a captivating park you should not miss. Another must-see is Zagreb Zoo, a captivating zoo in Zagreb.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Zagreb Fountains, another of the city’s locally appreciated attractions.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Croatia. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Zagreb by reserving a table at Tač. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of traditional cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Noel, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Beštija, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite contemporary menu. With a Bib Gourmand acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Krolo offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Kavana Corso is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Valhalla Beer Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Zagreb. You’ll stay in Zagreb for 5 nights.

Your adventure in Zagreb is only getting started when you visit Ban Josip Jelačić Statue, a well-known local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Zagreb Cathedral. This popular church is known for its photogenic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Zagreb's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Ribnjak Park. This awe-inspiring park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Technical Museum is also worth visiting, along with Bundek. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Croatia. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Zagreb is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Zagreb.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Roots - juice & cocktail bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try La Štruk? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Tagliata as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Zagreb.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like A’e Craft Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Budbar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Mr. Fogg offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

Day 4 of your road trip across Croatia promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Zagreb. You have 4 nights left in Zagreb. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

A visit to Upper Town (Gornji Grad) is a must on the agenda today. This neighborhood is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Awaiting your discovery is the often recommended Stone Gate, a historic historical landmark in Zagreb. Next, go to Museum Of Broken Relationships.

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

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Croatia. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

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

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Esplanade 1925 Lounge & Cocktail Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Carpe Diem, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Regular. Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Head back to your accommodation in Zagreb and get some rest to prepare for another magical 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 have 3 nights to stay in Zagreb, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Strmec, Samobor, and Brezovac Žumberački.

Strmec is brimming with adventures.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Strmec and set your GPS to Samobor. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 11 min. Upon reaching Samobor, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Playground / Lake Kipiste, an up-and-coming lake that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Kipišće Lake and admire its eye-catching features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Samobor. This car ride takes around 11 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Samobor is King Tomislav Square, a frequently visited public square that draws attention for its enchanting features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Samobor Castle, a romantic castle that stands out in the village.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Brezovac Žumberački. This car ride takes around 1 hour 1 min.

Žumberak And Samobor Mountains is a worthwhile mountain range we recommend visiting today. Discover its stunning features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Zagreb. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restoran ZLATNA ŠKOLJKA, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, RougeMarin offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Otto & Frank is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Zagreb.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Mali Grad is an excellent place to start. You could also check out B Blok Caffe Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Swanky Monkey Garden. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Croatia!

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Zagreb, where you have 2 nights left to stay.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Desinić. This car ride takes around 19 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Kumrovec. Spend some time admiring the respected features of the museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to The Birth House Of Josip Broz Tito. This curiosity-inducing museum is a traveler-favorite in the village.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Desinić may take around 19 min. Upon your arrival in Desinić, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Dvor Veliki Tabor is an underrated castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its awe-inspiring features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Grad Krapina’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Desinić behind. This drive usually takes around 38 min. Grad Krapina welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Museum Of Neandertals In Krapina, an often recommended museum that draws visitors from near and far.

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

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 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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Barbar Xxl. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Vintage Industrial Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Buzz Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Zagreb, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Grad Varaždin and Trakošćan.

Trakošćan’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Grad Varaždin behind. This drive usually takes around 47 min. Trakošćan welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Varaždin City Museum, an up-and-coming museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Old Town, Varaždin, where you can soak in the visually striking surroundings.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Grad Varaždin and set your GPS to Trakošćan. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 47 min. Upon reaching Trakošćan, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Trakošćan Castle, an intriguing castle that everyone visiting Trakošćan should see.

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

Zagreb is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Zagreb.

Savor the flavors at Restoran Palfi, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Johann Franck beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Gallo. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zagreb tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Hub Cooltura Pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Caffe Bar Cug is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Beertija also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Your itinerary for day 8 of your road trip in Croatia includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Grad Varaždin. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Grad Varaždin, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you arrive in Grad Varaždin, it's time to take a break from the road.

Our first attraction recommendation in Grad Varaždin is Kapucinska Crkva, a locally appreciated church that draws attention for its photogenic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Church Of St. Nicholas, a culturally significant church that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Palača Herzer, Gmv Varaždin, a locally appreciated museum that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Cathedral Of The Assumption Of The Virgin Mary, Varaždin, a nearby church, highly recommended by other travelers.

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

Grad Varaždin is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Grad Varaždin.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Cafe Haustor, a highly-rated dining destination in Grad Varaždin. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restoran Angelus, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Medonja. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Grad Varaždin this evening.

Keep the evening going at Caffe Bar Madera, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Sax - Pub, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is My Way Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Grad Čazma and Podgarić. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Zagreb, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Grad Varaždin, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Grad Čazma. Your travel time is around 1 hour 13 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Church Of St. Mary Magdalene, an often recommended church in Grad Čazma.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Grad Čazma, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Podgarić. This drive usually takes around 36 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Monument To The Revolution Of The People Of Moslavina, an up-and-coming monument that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Garic Town and admire its symbolic features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Zagreb. Zagreb offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Zagreb. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Dezman mini bar, an iconic dining spot in Zagreb. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Il Secondo, a popular restaurant in Zagreb. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restoran Vegehop, a hidden gem nestled in Zagreb. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Caffe Bar Vespa, known for its inviting atmosphere. Coffee Inn is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Tolkien's House provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!