Best of Croatia 11 Days, Self-Drive

Choose this self-drive tour and spend eleven days exploring the breathtaking beauty of Croatian landscape. Start in Zagreb, the charming capital of Croatia, then continue to Opatija, and admire the glamour of fragrant botanical gardens, parks and coloured villas of this sea side resort of Austro-Hungarian period. Plitvice Lakes National Park is a must-see natural phenomenon with astonishing waterfalls and 16 connected lakes, and Zadar and Split will capture your interest by the unique culinary and laid back atmosphere. End the journey with a remarkable visit of Dubrovnik, another Croatian treasure characterized by spectacular architecture, intense art, and cultural opulence.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS  

Zagreb: The dynamic capital of Croatia is the largest city in the country, boasting fantastic examples of Austro-Hungarian architecture and high quality of life for its residents.

Dubrovnik: Protected by magnificent medieval walls, the atmospheric capital of the historic Republic of Ragusa is a treasure trove of palaces and churches.

Plitvice Lakes National Park: This national park is a nature lover's paradise. The cascading waterfalls and variety of wildlife are sure to take your breath away.

Split: This seaside Dalmatian town is must-see, framed by a beautiful mountain backdrop and aqua-coloured waters, plus some of the best Roman ruins in the world.

Day 1: ARRIVAL ZAGREB

Arrive at Zagreb Airport, pick up the car and drive to your hotel for check-in. Explore the largest city and capital of the Republic of Croatia, located in the heart of Europe, sheltered by Mount Medvednica and lying on the banks of the river Sava. Visit charming and picturesque Gornji Grad(Upper Town) and modern Donji Grad(Lower Town), enjoy the beautiful squares, parks and facades of this vibrant city. 

Overnight in Zagreb.

Day 2: ZAGREB

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before you start exploring Zagreb. A stroll through Zagreb is an interesting and pleasant journey through the past and present. The longest street in Zagreb, Ilica, divides the old, romantic Upper Town from the more recently built, bustling and buzzing Lower Town. Upper Town of Zagreb is a unique place for many reasons: colorful rooftop of St. Marks Church, Lotrscak Tower, Funicular, Stone Gate and gas streetlamps that had to be lit by hand. Gradec and Kaptol are the oldest parts of the city from which Zagreb has sprung. Market place Dolac is one of the rare open-air markets that still remain in Europe. The main square is the Square of Ban Josip Jelačić. To get a deeper insight into this charming place book our optional tour guide for 2 hours city tour.

If you are a wine connoisseur you cannot miss our optional wine tasting experience. Not only will you enjoy top-notch wines, meat delicacies, and exquisite cheeses, but you will also learn all you need to know about wine and food pairing. Get an introduction to Croatian wines during wine class in Zagreb led by a sommelier. Learn about local wine regions and winemaking secrets while sampling Croatian prosciutto, cheese, and bread.

Overnight in Zagreb.

Day 3: ZAGREB – OPATIJA (175 km – 2.15 hrs)

After your leisure breakfast at the hotel, check-out from your hotel and follow your drive to Opatija, known as the Pearl of Adriatic, due to its fragrant botanical gardens, parks and coloured villas. Glammed up as a very stylish seaside resort, this charming Istrian town has been attracting aristocrats and famous people for over a century. With the perfect mild climate all-year-around and preserved environment, Opatija is also known as a health-tourism spot. Stroll down the Lungomare promenade and enjoy the fresh air or sip on a refreshing drink on one of the city's many sunny terraces. Alternatively, book our optional private tour guide to learn more about this charming town.

Overnight in Opatija.

Day 4: OPATIJA

Enjoy your morning breakfast at the hotel and get ready to explore Opatija, known as a popular seaside resort for the Austro-Hungarian elite during the days of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Stroll down its picturesque streets, perhaps taste some local specialities, or you can book our optional Opatija city tour and discover more about this attractive city. If you wish to go further within your Croatian discoveries and get inside of this beautiful region of Istria, book our Pula, Porec or Rovinj City tours with a private guide. 

Overnight in Opatija.

Day 5: OPATIJA – PLITVICE (170 km – 2.15 hrs)

Begin the day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel and prepare yourself to depart towards Plitvice Lakes National Park, a must-see natural wonder in Croatia and a UNESCO’s World Heritage Site. Surrounded by dense woods and characterised by its rich flora and fauna, Plitvice Lakes are a natural phenomenon of rare and unique beauty. Stroll the paradisiacal paths of the park, admire the magnificent lakes, the beautiful cascading waterfalls, and the whole picturesque image of nature. Take your time and relax, getting ready for a comfortable night spent at your selected hotel in Plitvice. Alternatively, you can book our four hours Plitvice tour and explore this place with an English speaking guide. 

Overnight in Plitvice.

Day 6: PLITVICE – ZADAR (130 km – 2 hrs)

Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel and get ready for your following destination located on a narrow peninsula in northern Dalmatia, Zadar. Once a Venetian town and former capital of Dalmatia, Zadar has evolved into a modern-day city, perfectly combining modern life with the impressive past that defines it. Wander around its inspiring centre, stroll down the streets paved with gleaming white stone and get in touch with history admiring the architecture of the Roman walls and Sea Organs with The Greeting to the sun, beautiful monuments that symbolize the mutual conversation between the man and nature. Catch a glimpse of its café scene enjoying a tasty coffee and indulge in a culinary experience in one of the traditional restaurants in Zadar. You can book our optional Zadar city tour and explore this Mediterranean city with a private guide.

Overnight in Zadar.

Day 7: ZADAR – SPLIT (160 km – 1.45 hrs)

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel and then depart to Split. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes while driving towards one of the most beautiful cities in Croatia. You can explore the city by foot and catch a glimpse of its most inspiring landmarks. Stroll the alleys of the spectacular old town, located in and around the impressive Diocletian’s Palace, a Unesco Heritage Site dating back to the fourth century. The city is bursting with life, offers many tempting attractions, from the beautiful beaches to a variety of festivals, exhibitions and concerts that take place on city squares. We also recommend booking our two hours Split city tour to learn more about this stunning coastal town.

Overnight in Split.

Day 8: SPLIT

After your lovely breakfast at the hotel, enjoy the leisure day in Split. Take a walk around the centre and visit the royal palace or indulge in the laid-back lifestyle the locals while having a coffee at the main square or enjoying some local speciality at the traditional restaurant. You can also drive along the coast and enjoy panoramic views of Cetina Canyon, perhaps stop in Omiš, a city known for its history of piracy. This charming city is home to many medieval fortresses, the most famous once being 13th century Mirabelle Fortress, and 15th-century Fortress Starigrad (Fortica). On top of everything, Omiš offers its visitors beautiful sandy public beach, with restaurants and cafes scattered around.

Overnight in Split.

Day 9: SPLIT – DUBROVNIK (270 km – 4 hrs)

After indulging in the scrumptious breakfast at the hotel, check out and continue your Croatian adventure to Dubrovnik. The drive along the coastline will take you to Makarska Riviera, where you can stop for a refreshing bath and lay back at white sandy beaches. Once in Dubrovnik, check in to your hotel and start with the exploration of this outstanding city. You can stroll its streets and search for the best things to see inside its protective walls. We suggest you join our optional Dubrovnik city tour of the old town, one of the most beautiful medieval towns in the world. Protected by magnificent medieval walls, the atmospheric capital of the historic Republic of Ragusa is a treasure trove of palaces and churches. Built in stone and famous for its beautiful city walls and historical monuments, the city itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Overnight in Dubrovnik.

Day 10: DUBROVNIK

Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel and the rest of the day at leisure. You can choose to explore the area on your own or decide to book our suggested optional Dubrovnik city tour and take a deeper insight into this spectacular beauty of this lively capital of the historic Republic of Ragusa and discover breathtaking cultural heritage that troves of palaces and churches. 

Alternatively, go on 3 hours Cilipi Folklor tour to witness local customs through song and dance. Let us greet you with a traditional “warm” welcome (grape brandy and figs) as you step into the village of Čilipi. Browse the market for some authentic local souvenirs and enjoy rhythms of Dalmatian music. 

Game of Thrones fans cannot miss the opportunity to go on this fantastic excursion. Climb Fortress Lovrijenac, The Red Keep and admire the views of the old town but also to see the Kings Landing, the Battle of Blackwater Bay, and the House of the Undying dungeon. Your guide tells you about the marvels of the city and fantasy world of the series and how the two live together. Take the boat ride to the exotic Island of Lokrum to hear about its history and its more recent development into the magical town of Quarth. Take a bun or two, the peacocks will be thrilled!

Overnight in Dubrovnik.

Day 11: DEPARTURE DUBROVNIK

Enjoy a tasty breakfast before returning the rental car at the Dubrovnik Airport and catching your return flight home.

Comfortable and warm clothing is the most suitable for travelling. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.