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10 Amazing Day Trips from Zagreb You Must Do!

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Zagreb is a gorgeous destination in and of itself, with amazing architecture and a lively vibe. But if you plan to be in Zagreb for a few days, you can also explore its surroundings! Read on to discover 10 amazing day trips from Zagreb to add to your itinerary.

From national parks to alpine lakes and medieval towns to hilltop villages, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to picking day trip destinations from the Croatian capital.

And while there’s a lot to see within Croatia, Zagreb’s location allows you to even dip your toes into neighboring countries!

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THE BEST DAY TRIPS FROM ZAGREB, CROATIA

If you are planning a trip to Zagreb, consider tacking on an extra couple of days for day trips to explore the surrounding countryside.

If you love history and architecture, you’ll love visiting the medieval towns around the Croatian capital. We visited a couple of these small towns and were blown away by their beauty and charm.

And if you love natural wonders, pack your walking shoes and your camera, and get ready to see some enchanting sights around Zagreb.

Here, then, are the 10 best day trips from Zagreb to put on your itinerary!

#1 Day trip from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

If you only have the time for one day trip and you haven’t yet been to Plitvice Lakes National Park, this is definitely the day trip you should do!

Croatia’s most famous national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Plitvice receives more than 1 million visitors annually. It is one of the top national parks in Europe , a must for every nature lover’s bucket list.

A network of 16 interconnected lakes with multitudes of large and small cascading waterfalls, Plitvice is an awe-inspiring natural wonder.

The color of the water in the lakes changes based on the light: it can be anything from a tranquil gray to a deep emerald green or a brilliant blue.

You traverse the park on boardwalks over the water or pathways along the shores of the lakes. One boat ride is included as part of the entrance fee and takes you across Kozjak Lake.

If you do the longest route through the park, it will take you anywhere from 4 to 6 hours. You can start at either one of the park’s two entrances.

If you are visiting on your own, start early (be at the gates at opening time!) or start after lunch. Between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., the park gets crowded on nice weather days.

Wear sunscreen and a sun hat, and carry bug spray. And, of course, don’t forget your camera or bring a charged smartphone!

Buy your Plitvice Lake entrance tickets in advance!

Getting to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb

Plitvice National Park is about 81 miles from Zagreb. You can drive to Plitvice National Park from Zagreb in about two hours in normal traffic.

Croatia is a great country for a road trip. The highways were is good shape when we visited.

If you are looking to rent a car for your Europe trip, consider Discover Cars ! They work with numerous car rental agencies to get you the best deal. Check availability and book your Croatia car rental now !

If you wish to travel using public transport, take the bus! There are multiple departures in both directions, especially during high season. The journey takes a little over 2 hours.

To book bus and train tickets for Europe in advance, consider Omio . I found the booking experience easy and hassle-free. They do charge a small service fee but I thought it was worth the convenience. Book your Croatia bus travel now !

By guided tour

If you like the structure of a guided tour, consider this highly rated small group fully guided tour that combines a visit to Plitvice with a stop at Rastoke .

You’ll get four hours inside Plitvice Lakes, with a guided walk through the national park, for the most efficient coverage.

Book your guided tour from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes now!

Or check out this private tour of Plitvice and Rastoke , along with a local cheese tasting and a visit to the Museum of the Croatian War of Independence in Karlovac.

#2 Day Trip from Zagreb To Lake Bled, Slovenia

If your trip to the region does not include a visit to Slovenia , Croatia’s neighbor to the northwest, then you must at a minimum do a day trip to Lake Bled from Zagreb.

A fabulous alpine lake with a stunning location, Lake Bled will take your breath away.

Lake Bled is the perfect size for a day trip, because you can fit many of the top things to do at Lake Bled in one active day.

With a lovely little island in the middle of the water and a hilltop castle to explore, it’s no wonder that Lake Bled is arguably Slovenia’s most popular destination.

Walk around the shore of the lake. Ride in a traditional Pletna boat to Bled Island and ring the wishing bell in the Church of the Assumption on the island.

And don’t forget to taste the delicious Bled cream cake!

Getting to Lake Bled from Zagreb

Lake Bled is about 120 miles from Zagreb. You can drive to Lake Bled from Zagreb in a little over two hours in normal traffic.

By bus OR TRAIN

If you wish to travel using public transport, you can take the train or the early morning bus! The train takes about 3 hours and the bus takes about 3.5 hours.

A guided tour is likely the best way to do this day trip if you do not have a car.

This highly rated full day tour covers both Lake Bled and Ljubljana. At Lake Bled, you have enough time to do a boat ride to the island and to visit the castle for great views over the lake.

Book a guided tour of Lake Bled and Ljubljana from Zagreb now !

Pro Tip: Don’t forget your passport when you go on day trips that involve border crossings!

#3 Day trip from Zagreb to Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana is one of the most fun European capitals we have visited.

The Ljubljanica River, lined with lovely cafes and restaurants, runs right through the Slovenian city. The lively city center is compact and walkable.

Ljubljana is the perfect sized city for a day trip. Plus, there’s a wide variety of things to do in Ljubljana , making it easy for travelers of all kinds to enjoy it.

If you’re doing the day trip independently, a walking tour , or a food tour , is a great way to get an overview of the city center.

Ride the funicular to Ljubljana Castle, or take the elevator to the top of the Skyscraper, for panoramic views over the city.

Take a cruise down the river, admiring Ljubljana’s pretty embankments.

Enjoy walking along the river, traversing the many historic bridges on the river.

Getting to Ljubljana from Zagreb

Ljubljana is about 85 miles from Zagreb. You can drive from Zagreb to Ljubljana in one hour and 45 minutes in normal traffic.

If you wish to travel using public transport, you can take the train or the bus! There are several daily departures, especially in high season. The train or the bus takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes.

A guided tour is an efficient way to do this day trip if you do not have a car. Check out this popular full day excursion from Zagreb that covers both Ljubljana and Lake Bled.

With a maximum of 8 participants, the small group experience includes a walking tour of Ljubljana and visits to Bled Castle as well as Lake Bled.

Book this guided tour of Lake Bled and Ljubljana now!

#4 Day trip from Zagreb to Samobor, Croatia

The charming medieval town of Samobor is located very near Zagreb, and makes for an easy and lovely day trip from the Croatian capital.

Not only is the town pretty, it is also surrounded by the Nature Park Žumberak, with options for a variety of outdoor activities.

Once in Samobor, wander the pretty streets of the city center, and hang out in the squares, admiring the gorgeous Baroque architecture.

The beautiful steeple of the Church of St. Anastazia can be seen from everywhere in town. If you enjoy churches, you can step inside to view the interior.

Walk up the hill to the ruins of the Samobor Castle for great views over the town. It’s about a 20-30 minute stroll one way, not too difficult.

If you have the energy, climb further up the mountain to the Tepec Vista viewpoint, another 20-25 minutes, for wonderful panoramas. This climb is steep!

After you are back in the main square, reward yourself with a slice of Samobor’s famous cream cake: custard cream sandwiched between two layers of pastry. We had it at Slasticarnica U Prolazu, on the main square.

Getting to Samobor from Zagreb

Samobor is about 17 miles from Zagreb. You can drive from Zagreb to Samobor in about 25 minutes in normal traffic.

If you wish to travel using public transport, you can take the bus from the Autobusni Kolvodor Zagreb, the main bus station! There are several daily departures in both directions. The bus ride is about 30 minutes.

At Samobor, follow the signs from the bus station to the city center, about a 10-minute walk. We took the bus both ways and found it very convenient to do this trip independently.

#5 Day trip from Zagreb to Varaždin, Croatia

Varaždin is a beautiful town not too far from Zagreb. It was the capital of Croatia from 1756 to 1776, when a fire ravaged most of the town, causing the capital to be moved back to Zagreb.

Our day trip from Zagreb to Varaždin is one of my favorite memories from our visit to Croatia.

The Baroque and Rococo architecture everywhere in the town is spectacular. Admire the Sermage Palace, built in the mid 18th century in the Rococo style…today it houses the Old and Contemporary Masters Gallery.

The Town Hall, in the main square, is built in late Baroque style.

The pale pink Varaždin Cathedral was built in the mid 17th century. There are several other gorgeous churches all around town. Wander the streets to see the many Baroque and Rococo palaces and houses. Each street will have you exclaiming in excitement.

At the edge of town is the Stari Grad, the old fortress. It looks like it belongs in a fairy tale, with its whitewashed walls and pretty red roofs. If you walk a little bit out of the town, you can walk through the beautiful cemetery, built to look like a park.

Getting to Varaždin from Zagreb

Varaždin is about 54 miles from Zagreb. You can drive from Zagreb to Varaždin in about one hour in normal traffic.

If you wish to travel using public transport, take the bus! There are several daily departures, especially in high season. The bus takes about one hour and 45 minutes. The bus station in Varaždin is a very short walk from the city center.

There are trains that connect Zagreb and Varaždin, but they take considerably longer, so it’s better to take the bus for a day trip.

If you prefer a guided tour, consider this full day tour that combines Varaždin with Kumrovec and Trakoscan Castle.

Trakoscan Castle is arguably the most attractive castle in Croatia, and Kumrovec, as the birthplace of Tito, holds an important place in Croatia’s history.

Book this guided tour of Varazdin and Trakoscan Castle from Zagreb now !

#6 Day trip from Zagreb to Rastoke

Rastoke is a small village located a few miles from Plitvice Lakes, just outside the town of Slunj. At Rastoke, the Slunjčica river flows into the Korana river, creating waterfalls similar to Plitvice but on a much smaller scale.

Historically, the village is important because many watermills were built here, to grind corn and grains into flour. The first mill was built in the 17th century, and many generations of families made their livelihoods with the mills.

Today the village and its surrounds are popular as a recreational area. You can go swimming in the water here, whereas Plitvice does not allow swimming.

River rafting is popular, over the many falls in the Korana river. Hiking and mountain biking are options as well.

You can view the waterfalls from viewpoints along the road. You can also visit Pod rastočkim krovom, where you can view many waterfalls up close, tour a watermill (one of the remaining two mills), and dine on fresh caught fish and homemade bread at the restaurant.

Getting to Rastoke from Zagreb

Rastoke is about 65 miles from Zagreb. You can drive from Zagreb to Rastoke in about 90 minutes in normal traffic.

If you wish to travel using public transport, take the bus! There are several daily departures, especially in high season. The bus takes about one hour and 45 minutes. The bus station in Slunj is about 0.25 mile from Rastoke.

Check out this highly rated full day tour that combines a visit to Rastoke with a tour of Plitvice Lakes National Park. The tour also includes a stop at the Homeland War memorial in Turanj.

Book this guided tour of Rastoke and Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb now!

#7 Day trip from Zagreb to Rovinj, Croatia

Rovinj is an incredibly picturesque seaside town in Croatian Istria. If Istria is not part of your Croatian trip, definitely put this day trip from Zagreb to Rovinj on your itinerary!

In Rovinj, walk the harbor to admire the views of the town. Climb the hill to the Church of St. Euphemia, with its tall bell tower. Rovinj was under Venetian rule for many centuries, and you’ll see the Venetian influence in the architecture of Rovinj.

Wander the streets of the town or take a boat cruise to look at the beautiful town from the water. Istrian cuisine is renowned, and you must definitely try pasta with Istrian truffles when in Rovinj. And seafood is plentiful and fresh.

If you like, you can combine your trip to Rovinj with a visit to nearby Poreč , where the Euphrasian Basilica is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Or with Pula to the south, where the amphitheater will remind you of the Colosseum of Rome.

Getting to Rovinj from Zagreb

Rovinj is about 155 miles from Zagreb. You can drive from Zagreb to Rovinj in about 3 hours in normal traffic. Rovinj to Pula is about 23 miles, a 40-minute drive in normal traffic. Rovinj to Poreč is about 22 miles, about a 40-minute drive in normal traffic.

Although you could travel to Rovinj and back by bus, it’s not ideal for a day trip because you’ll get barely four hours in Rovinj and spend the bulk of the day in the bus. If you do not have a car, a guided day tour is your best option.

Consider this highly rated private tour of Istria from Zagreb. The tour combines a visit to Rovinj with tours of both Pula and Poreč (or Hum) for a long but comfortable and productive day trip!

Book this guided tour of Rovinj (Istria) from Zagreb now!

#8 Day trip from Zagreb to Istrian villages, Croatia

The Istrian villages of Croatia are incredibly cute. If you do not have Istria on your Croatian itinerary, plan on seeing three of the most beautiful Istrian villages on a day trip from Zagreb.

Your first (quick) stop is at Hum, the smallest town in the world. With a population only in the low double digits, Hum is tiny. Enjoy the beautiful views from the town and visit the church.

Next you’ll visit Motovun, where you should have lunch: make sure your meal features the flavorful Istrian truffles and olive oil! Our lunch in Motovun was one of the best meals we had in Croatia.

Walk around Motovun: it’s a very scenic little town. You can walk the entirety of the old town walls, which are beautifully preserved. Visit the Church of St. Stephen with its lovely bell tower.

Your final stop is Grožnjan, another charming Istrian village. With lots of arts and crafts shops, and pretty alleys, the little town makes for a delightful wander.

Getting to Istria from Zagreb

Hum is about 124 miles from Zagreb. You can drive from Zagreb to Motovun in about 2.5 hours in normal traffic. Hum to Motovun is about 20 miles, a 40-minute drive in normal traffic.

Motovun to Grožnjan is about 11 miles, about a 25-minute drive in normal traffic. Grožnjan to Zagreb is about 150 miles, and should take you about 3 hours in normal traffic.

Check out this private tour that combines a visit to Hum and Motovun with a visit to Pula, on the Istrian coast. The price is by group (up to 7 people).

#9 Day trip from Zagreb to Graz, Austria

The Styrian capital of Graz in southern Austria makes for a great day trip from Zagreb. Austria’s second largest city, Graz is home to the world’s largest historical armory, with over 30,000 objects in its collection!

The historic center of Graz and Eggenberg Palace are a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Hauptplatz, the main square, is the heart of the city. Lined with beautiful buildings, including the Town Hall, the square is close to major attractions.

You can stroll Sporgasse, a cobblestone street with lovely facades. Visit the Cathedral of Graz, and the Mausoleum.

Take the funicular or the elevator to the top of Schlossberg, a hill right in the heart of the city, for magnificent views over Graz. Visit the Clock Tower, which used to be part of a castle that was destroyed by Napoleon.

End your day in Graz with a visit to Eggenberg Palace. If you arrived by bus, take a taxi to the palace from the city center. The Baroque palace is beautiful and the grounds gorgeous.

Getting to Graz from Zagreb

Graz is about 114 miles from Zagreb. You can drive from Zagreb to Graz in about 2 hours and 20 minutes in normal traffic.

If you wish to travel using public transport, take the bus! There are several daily departures, especially in high season. The bus takes about 3 hours. The bus station in Graz is about 1 mile from the Hauptplatz, about a 25-minute walk, or you can take the tram or a taxi.

#10 Day trip from Zagreb to Osijek, Croatia

Osijek is located in northeastern Croatia, on the bank of the Drava River. With its beautiful Baroque architecture, the city center makes for a great day trip from the Croatian capital.

In Osijek, the Co-Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul is a must-visit. The tower is the second tallest in Croatia, after the Zagreb Cathedral The church used to have 40 stained glass windows, but some were damaged in the Croatian War of Independence.

Wander the main square, Trg Ante Starčevića. Visit Tvrđa, the citadel of Osijek, located on the bank of the Drava River. It is the largest complex of Baroque buildings in Croatia. Walk along the riverfront. If you like green spaces, stroll the Kresimir Park.

Getting to Osijek from Zagreb

Osijek is about 176 miles from Zagreb. You can drive from Zagreb to Osijek in about 2 hours and 40 minutes in normal traffic.

So there you have it: my suggestions for the best day trips from Zagreb. If you’ve done any of them, or if you know of another wonderful day trip destination from Zagreb, comment below: I would love your thoughts.

If you are planning to visit Zagreb, I hope I have inspired you to consider adding some of these fabulous day trips to your itinerary for Zagreb!

And don’t forget to check out my post on the best things to do in Zagreb, in just one day .

Looking for places to stay in Zagreb?

If you are looking for accommodation in Zagreb, so you have a comfortable base from which to explore, Zagreb has many great options!

We stayed in the classy Esplanade Zagreb . It is a wonderful choice if you’re looking for luxury and ambiance, and fabulous onsite restaurants. Our room was fabulous, and the marble bathroom decadent.

Bonus: it is very close to the train station and a short taxi ride from the bus station. Check prices and availability

In the heart of the city center, Hotel Amadria Park Capital Heritage Zagreb is highly rated. Rooms are elegant, with contemporary furnishings. Some rooms have city views.

Read reviews on TripAdvisor   | Book a stay here

Planning a trip to Croatia? Check out some of our other articles!

• Croatian Coast Road Trip Itinerary
• The Best Things to Do in Zadar
• The Most Exciting Day Trips from Zadar
• One Day in Zagreb
• Best Things to Do in Rovinj, Croatia
• Croatia’s 8 Spectacular National Parks
• What to Do in Trogir, Croatia

MORE FUN DESTINATIONS IN EUROPE

Slovenia : The Best Things to Do in Ljubljana Montenegro : Visiting Perast on a Day Trip from Kotor Italy : What to Do in Florence on Your First Visit Spain : The Best Things to Do in Seville Norway : How to Spend One Perfect Day in Bergen Denmark : The Ultimate 1-Day Copenhagen Itinerary Sweden : The Best Things to Do in Stockholm

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Dhara's travel interests are eclectic, spanning everything from natural wonders to history, culture, art and architecture. She has visited 22 countries, many more than once, plus almost all 50 states of the USA, and has amassed a hoard of cherished travel moments.

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16 thoughts on “10 amazing day trips from zagreb you must do”.

Zagreb seems like a cool place, and I really love your idea of going off on so many different things whilst visiting 🙂

There are so many great options for day trips that you can’t help do some of them!

Hi Dhara, love this post. We’ll be passing through coastal Croatia next year en route to Turkey, so definitely worth a re-read nearer the time. Thanks so much. Kx

I hope you return to Zagreb: we loved our day trips to Samobor and Varazdin in particular.

Beautiful scenery and looks like worthy day trips to do. Croatia is definitely on my bucket list. Thanks for sharing your suggestions.

You will love Croatia! The scenery is indeed gorgeous and the cities are lovely!

SO many things to do! How many days would you suggest for a first time visitor to Zagreb?

We spent three days and I felt that was just right: we fit in a couple of great day trips as well.

I loved reading this as I want to go to Croatia next year. Thanks for the tips on all the little towns that I hadn’t heard of.

You will enjoy Croatia! It’s beautiful. Let me know if you have questions as you plan your trip!

Such a great guide of things to do, thank you! Love your photos too. Inspired to visit Croatia soon.

You will love Croatia when you visit!

Wow! So many day trips to choose from! Thank you for this thorough post. Zagreb has been on my list since I visited the coast of Croatia. Now I have many more things to add to my itinerary when I make it there!

The city itself is beautiful too. Well worth a visit!

I am going to Zagreb for 3 days in January. What other town has the most for tourists in Winter to see on a day trip?

We would say Varazdin . The weather is cold, of course, similar to Zagreb, but the town is beautiful if you like architecture and pretty streets. It’s a largish town with several churches, a castle, and some museums. You can ask your hotel in Zagreb or the tourist information office in Zagreb when you are there, to advise up-to-date status on whether the castle and restaurants in Varazdin are open the day you plan to go, just in case there’s a snow storm.

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18 Best Day Trips from Zagreb, Croatia

Last Updated on 22/04/2024 by kami

Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, is a wonderful yet underrated place to visit during your Balkan trip . There are so many great things to do in Zagreb that the city will keep you busy for at least 2 days. If you are wondering if Zagreb is worth visiting , the answer is definitely!

However, be sure to plan a few more days for the Croatian capital since you might want to use it as a base for some cool day trips from Zagreb. The city has some really beautiful and interesting places nearby and going for a day trip is always convenient as you don’t need to pack and unpack every day.

During my few visits to the city, I managed to go for a few Zagreb day trips and really enjoyed each place. You can visit some spectacular natural sights, cute towns packed with history or even go to another country – Slovenia . There are many options to choose from!

Zagreb essentials

• Airport transfer: Pre-book the airport transfer from Zagreb airport to your accommodation in Zagreb here .
• Where to stay in Zagreb: MANDA Heritage Hotel (9.2/10) / Casablanca Boutique Bed&Breakfast (9.2/10)
• Best Zagreb tour: 2.5-Hour Walking Tour with Funicular Ride
• Best day trip from Zagreb: Plitvice Lakes and Rastoke Day Trip
• Get insured for your trip to Croatia with SafetyWing

Table of Contents

Day trips from Zagreb

And so today, with a help of fellow travel bloggers, I have prepared for you an overview of all the best Zagreb day trips. I’m sure you will find some interesting places in the list below.

The places are listed in no particular order but they all are reachable as a day trip. You can easily get to some of the places by public transport but often organized tours are a better and more efficient option (if that’s the case I will link the recommended tours).

So without any further ado, here are the best day trips from Zagreb.

Plitvice Lakes

Plitvice Lakes is one of the most popular day trips from Zagreb and it gets the hype for a reason. This is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Croatia .

The Plitvice Lakes National Park is located in the central part of Croatia, very close to the border with Bosnia and Herzegovina , and getting there from Zagreb takes around 2 hours.

There are two main entrances to the park, located 3 km apart – I recommend entering the park through entrance no 1 and then continue towards the second entrance. This way you will easily see all the best attractions of Plitvice Lakes.

Inside the park, you will see stunning waterfalls (including some bigger ones like Veliki Slap) and emerald lakes and you will walk between the places on the paths made next to the water which makes the overall experience even more special. There is also a boat and small train ride included in the ticket.

During your visit, you will have a few hikes to choose from, from short ones to those that take up to 8 hours of sightseeing. No matter which one you choose you will be in awe of the beauty Plitvice Lakes offer.

Most of the places are easily accessible and don’t require to be fit, however good shoes are recommended since some of the paths might be slippery.

The national park is open all year long and you can visit it every season since it’s always beautiful however it can get rather crowded and expensive in the holiday season.

You can get from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes by public bus, there are around 10 connections per day. If you would like to see some other places like Rastoke on the way it’s worth considering a tour.

Read more about my day trip from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes here.

Here are recommended tours from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes :

• Rastoke & Plitvice Lakes National Park Tour from Zagreb
• Plitvice Lakes National Park and Rastoke Tour from Zagreb
• From Zagreb: Plitvice Lakes and Rastoke Day Trip
• From Zagreb: Plitvice Lakes Full-Day Private Tour

Rastoke is a beautiful village located on the way from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes yet often overlooked by tourists going this way. But this place itself is a good destination for a Zagreb day trip.

The picturesque village (technically part of the town of Slunj) is known for the waterfalls and therefore is often called “the Small Lakes of Plitvice”. That’s also where the Slunjčica river flows into the river Korana, making it such a pretty sight since the river divides into a few smaller branches creating cascades and small waterfalls.

Rastoke was first mentioned at the end of the 17th century as a fortified town with a bridge and a mill and the mills are what makes the place special. At the peak of prosperity, there were 22 of them, using the power of the water from the rivers.

Today Rastoke is a rather sleepy place where it feels like the time has stopped – a perfect interesting destination that is still not very well known.

Samobor is probably the easiest day trip from Zagreb! This small and charming town is located only 20 km away from the capital and there are frequent buses connecting these two places, departing from the central bus station. The company serving this route is called Samoborcek, their platform is located in the back of the bus station.

Samobor dates back to the mid-13th century when it was founded as a free royal town. It has been a popular tourist destination already at the beginning of the 19th century, attracting hunters and hikers. Today it is a sleepy town with beautiful Baroque architecture, a popular day trip escape from the capital.

The center of Samobor is at King Tomislav Square – the vibrant main square lined with beautiful buildings and numerous cafes where you can sit down over a cup of coffee and a famous local cream cake – kremšnita.

Samobor is surrounded by beautiful nature and you can go hiking in the area. The most popular hike is to the ruins of Samobor castle, around half an hour from the center. A few kilometers north of the town, towards the border with Slovenia, you can visit Grgos Cave – one of the most beautiful caves in Croatia.

If you would like to go on a tour from Zagreb to Samobor , here are the recommended ones:

• Picturesque Samobor & Samobor Castle Private Half-day Tour
• Private eclectic hiking experience of Samobor Hills

Karlovac isn’t a popular day trip from Zagreb but it should as the city is really interesting and full of history. Most of the people visiting Croatia know it because of the local beer – Karlovačko, one of the most popular ones in Croatia. But that’s not the main reason to visit Karlovac.

The city was founded at the end of the 16th century as a fortress to protect the area from the Ottoman Empire. The said fortress, built on the shape of a star, is one of the city’s main attractions.

Inside it, you can find the central part of the town with the buildings from the times of the Habsburg Empire. Even though some of the places need renovations (Karlovac was badly destroyed during the Yugoslav War) this is such a pleasant area to visit, although a bit sleepy.

The city has also plenty of green, leisure areas in parks or along the river Kupa. Not far from the center you can also visit Renaissance Dubovac Castle from the 15th century, overlooking the city.

Karlovac is located 50 km away from Zagreb, with good train and bus connections, so visiting the town is really easy.

If your Balkan itinerary is packed but you would like to visit another country you can plan a day trip from Zagreb to Slovenia. The country, located north of the Croatian capital, is really close and can be a good destination for a quick detour.

Depending on your interests, you can visit a few places that are some of the top Slovenia attractions . You can go to Ljubljana – the charming capital of Slovenia, known for its lovely old town, the castle towering above the city and the vibrant riverside lined with numerous cafes and restaurants.

If you still have time you can continue towards Slovenian Alps and visit its most popular destination – Lake Bled . This picture-perfect place will definitely take your breath away with beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains. When in Bled be sure to eat their famous cream cake and compare it with the one from Samobor (I personally prefer Bled cream cakes).

You might also visit a spectacular Postojna Cave – one of the largest caves in the world with some 20km of underground corridors.

Alternatively, you can go to the Eastern part of Slovenia and visit its second-biggest city Maribor and nearby Ptuj – the oldest town in Slovenia. Both places are really pretty and full of interesting sights.

Here are recommended day tours from Zagreb to Slovenia :

• Grand SLOVENIA: Ljubljana + Lake Bled + Postojna Cave – Day Tour
• Slovenia, Ljubljana and Lake Bled Full Day Small Group Excursion from Zagreb
• Slovenia’s highlights: Bled lake and Ljubljana Full-Day Private Tour from Zagreb
• From Zagreb: Ljubljana, Postojna Cave & Predjama Castle Tour
• From Zagreb: Ljubljana and Lake Bled Tour

Recommended by Dhara from It’s Not About the Miles

Varazdin makes for a wonderful day trip from Zagreb if you enjoy history, architecture, and art. The baroque town of Varazdin is called “Little Vienna ” because of its beautiful architecture, and it was Croatia’s capital city for a few years in the 1700s.

On a day trip to Varazdin, stroll its charming cobblestone streets, admire the many churches, including the Varazdin Cathedral, tour the historic buildings for their architectural beauty, and visit the castle, on the outskirts of the historic center. There are museums to visit as well as parks and gardens.

Varazdin’s main square is a nice place to sit and enjoy a drink. Here you will also find cafes that sell pastries, including Varazdin’s version of the famous cream cake. There are many good eateries for lunch, serving local cuisine or pizzas and pastas.

You can drive to Varazdin from Zagreb, or take the bus if you wish to use public transport.

You can also take the tour and combine visiting Varazdin with Trakoscan Castle – click here for details .

Recommended by Ellie from Ellie’s Travel Tips

Immerse yourself in the history of the historic, peasant town Kumrovec for an idyllic day trip from Zagreb. Located on the far eastern side of the scenic Sutla Valley, Kumrovec offers a picturesque, white village for you to explore immensely.

Known as a classic Croatian white village, Kumrovec boasts the typical vineyards, peasant haystacks, and clucking chickens. The center of the Kumrovec village is home to the area’s open-air ethnographic museum. This reconstruction of the city’s historic buildings offers a glimpse back in time to the life of the Zagorje people in the years before World War I.

Stroll around this cozy village through traditional Croatian houses, workshops, and barns that illustrated the peasant lifestyle of earlier years. As the birthplace of the former Yugoslavia leader Josip Broz Tito, visitors can learn about his fascinating career through a small display of his uniforms and photographs with other historic figures.

To get from Zagreb to Kumrovec, head north on E59 and D205 on a simple hour-long drive. There are also plenty of tours leaving from Zagreb, where guests are brought up to the historic white village to spend a couple of hours exploring before heading back through the rolling Croatian hills.

Here are recommended tours to Kumrovec :

• Kumrovec: Croatian Ethno Village & Josip Broz Tito’s Birthplace
• Kumrovec village tour in old-timer YUGO car

Located 60 km north of Zagreb, near the border with Slovenia, Krapina is yet another overlooked destination that makes a perfect day trip from the capital. You can easily get there from Zagreb by train or bus.

Krapina was founded at the end of the 12th century and has been a favorite place for Croatian and Hungarian rulers (that’s why there were many castles or country houses built in this area).

Today Krapina is mostly known for the Neanderthal Museum – in 1899 over eight hundred Neanderthals’ fossil remains were found near the city, the richest collection of Neanderthals remains in the world.

The local museum tells the story of this discovery and Neanderthals but also teaches more about evolution. In fact, this is one of the best museums in Europe focusing on evolution so if you are interested in this topic Krapina museum is a must-visit place.

The town itself is really nice too, with some old buildings and a picturesque location in the valley surrounded by green hills of the Zagorje region.

You can visit Krapina (as well as Varazdin and Trakoscan Castle) on a tour from Zagreb – click here for details .

Recommended by Nisha & Vasu from Le Monde, the Poetic Travels

Located 57 KMs southeast of the Croatian capital Zagreb, Sisak is a place to visit for Roman history and ruins, among many other activities and things to do in Sisak .

Being a regional economic, cultural and historical center, Sisak has lots to offer to its visitors. First and foremost is the beautiful castle or Sisak fortress situated by the river Kupa. It has a triangle-shaped structure, made of brick and stones. The rounded towers have conical roofs. Over the period of time this Sisak fortress has gone through many damages and then was renovated. It also houses the local town museum.

The 18th century cathedral of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross is situated next to the archaeological park.

Sisak jazz club, one of the most famous jazz clubs in the world, holds several concerts and musical events. One of the oldest brick houses, Mali Kaptol was built in the Baroque period and is located next to the club.

The historical Old Bridge made of bricks is as popular as the promenade Slavo Striegl. Here you can refresh yourself in one of the many cafes and enjoy the view of the river.

House Lieberman, Veliki Kaptol, and Palace Grga Tuskan are a few other places you can see in a day.

One can reach Sisak by road or by train. There are several buses plying to Sisak from different cities. Sisak is on Croatia’s main railway line and there are many trains operating between Zagreb and Sisak.

If you are looking for an alternative day trip from Zagreb you can go for a small hunt to find some of the most impressive spomeniks in Croatia. If you are not familiar with the name, “spomenik” simply means “a monument” in the Croatian language (as well as Serbian or Bosnian) and it is a common name for all the monuments built in the former Yugoslavia between the 1950s and 1980s to commemorate the fight with fascism during World War Two.

Spomeniks are usually huge and impressive concrete structures, often standing in remote locations in the middle of nowhere. If you are traveling by car you can visit some of the best-known spomeniks in Croatia since they are located not too far from Zagreb, there are also tours available.

Here are some of them:

• Monument to the Revolution of the People of Moslavina located in Podgarić, 80 km from Zagreb
• Monument to the Uprising of the People of Kordun and Banija in Petrova Gora, 100 km from Zagreb
• Stone Flower in Jasenovac, 110 km from Zagreb

You can find all the spomeniks in Croatia on this map .

Here are spomenik day tours from Zagreb :

• Yugoslav Monuments Photo Tour from Zagreb
• Urban explorer for a day

Istria, the seaside region west of Zagreb, deserves a few days in your Balkan itinerary. But if you are short on time you can go to Istria as a day trip from Zagreb. It will be busy and packed with attractions day but definitely worth all the effort.

There are so many great things to do in Istria but with only one day you should focus on the biggest attractions the region has to offer.

Pula is known for its massive Roman amphitheater that dates back to the 1st century and is one of the best-preserved monuments of that kind in the world. Rovinj is a picture-perfect place with an impressive Church of Saint Euphemia towering above the town. Porec is yet another charming town with cobbled streets, made for wandering around.

If you still have some time left you can stop in Grožnjan – the town of artists or Motovun, known for its culinary scene.

A day trip to Istria can give you a great overview of what this Croatian region has to offer so you can eventually return there to get to know it better.

Here are the best tours from Zagreb to Istria :

• Istria Day Tour From Zagreb
• Opatija, Rijeka, Trsat and Lovran Private tour from Zagreb

Read more about some of the best destinations in Istria in my articles:

• 13 Best Things to Do in Rovinj, Croatia
• 13 Great Things to Do in Pula, Croatia
• 19 Best Things to Do in Rijeka, Croatia
• Visit Opatija, Croatia – the Charming Seaside Town

A day trip from Zagreb to Zadar might be a bit long (around 3 hours/one way, some 280 km) but if you would like to get a glimpse of the Croatian coast, visiting Zadar might be a good option. The city has plenty of interesting attractions and is a perfect place to spend one day in.

The Old Town, located on a peninsula, is small but nice. The biggest highlight of the place is the 9th-century Church Of St. Donatus with the cathedral bel tower standing next to it – be sure to climb it for the best views of the Old Town and beyond!

Don’t miss the so-called Sea Organ – a unique and interesting art project – the marble steps going into the Adriatic Sea might look pretty normal but the waves crashing into them create unique sounds, like the organs. Next to it, you will see the Monument to the Sun – the circle with some three hundred glass plates, beautifully illuminated in the evening.

Once you are done with the Zadar sightseeing you can sit in one of the many cafes, preferably at the charming People’s Square, and enjoy the atmosphere of the place.

And if you still have some time you can go to nearby Nin – the old royal town located only 15 km away from Zadar. It’s tiny but charming, with cobbled streets, old houses, and probably the smallest cathedral in the world.

You might visit both places on a tour from Zagreb – click here for details.

Read more about Zadar in the article “6 Amazing Things to Do in Zadar, Croatia”

Castle Trakošćan

Recommended by Gabi from Under Flowery Sky

Castle Trakošćan is the most famous castle in Croatia, a fabulous place surrounded by the lake and picturesque mountains. This is already a good reason to visit this place.

The easiest way to come here is by car. Alternatively, you could take a tour ( click here for details ) or come by bus to Očura where you should catch a taxi.

Surrounded by lovely hotels and hiking trails through Ravna Gora, Trakošćan offers the return back in time. The castle dates to the 14th century capturing the collection of furniture, paintings, and even photographs of Juraj Drašković whose work characterizes the 19th century.

The artificial lake is encircled by the educational trail The Path of Fairies which takes 2h.

Ravna Gora itself gives the splendid views of the soft mountains where even some paragliders can be seen. Mountain huts, two of them, are beautifully painted and decorated.

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit castle Trakošćan as it will give you the fairy-tale feelings.

Veliki Tabor Castle

Recommended by Enzo from Inguaribile Viaggiatore

Veliki Tabor Castle is one of the most important cultural and historical monuments of secular architecture in continental Croatia, with a monumental and authentic fortification structure. Located on top of the Hum Košnički mountain, 333 meters above sea level, it has dominated the Zagorje area for over half a millennium, during which architecture blended with nature. The splendid view from Veliki Tabor extends over the entire Zagorje area and part of Slovenia.

This monument is one of the most recognizable landmarks not only in Croatian Zagorje but of the whole country.

The oldest part of the premises is its central part, the pentagonal castle, dating back to the Gothic period. The castle is surrounded by four semi-circular Renaissance towers connected by the curtain walls and the north entrance walls. The center of the fort is surrounded by the outer defense wall, with an agricultural office, a Renaissance bastion, two semicircular guards (north and south), and the quadrangular entrance tower.

You can visit Veliki Tabor and a few other sights in Zagorje region on a tour from Zagreb – click here for details .

Risnjak National Park

If you are looking for more like an active day trip from Zagreb you should consider Risnjak National Park, located some 130km from the capital towards Istria.

This area is known for the diverse nature since it’s between the Alps and Dinaric Alps. The highest peak of Risnjak National Park Veliki Risnjak (1528 m above sea level) but there are many walking and hiking trails in the area so you can easily find the one that suits your needs.

It is possible to visit Risnjak National Park with a professional guide on a day trip from Zagreb – you can find details here.

Medvednica, a mountain range just outside of Zagreb, is another idea of a day trip to nature. You can reach the highest peak, Sljeme (1035 m above sea level) by the chair lift, on top you will find the hotel or the tv tower.

In the wintertime, this is the favorite area for locals to go skiing and even some international skiing competitions take place here.

The area is a protected nature park and is a great place to visit all year long – there are many hiking trails you can choose from to explore the area.

Tour local wineries

If you like trying local wine during your travels you will be pleased to know that the area surrounding Zagreb is known for good wine, it’s just not very popular outside Croatia. There are many family-owned wineries producing high-quality wine you might not find anywhere else.

If you are a wine fan be sure to plan a tour of wineries during your trip to Zagreb!

Here are some wine tours from Zagreb you might want to take:

• Fairytale castles & delicious wine
• The Dionysus Tour Lunch or dinner and Wine Tasting at Plesivica
• Private Wine Road Day Tour from Zagreb

Terme Sveti Martin

Recommended by Nichola from Globalmouse Travels

When you’re looking for an escape from the busy city then you can’t beat a trip north to Terme Sveti Martin and one of the best spas in Croatia. The drive out is beautiful and takes you close to the border with Slovenia.

This retreat has been using its thermal waters for medicinal and relaxation reasons for over a hundred years and has an impressive complex of treatment rooms and spas. There’s an indoor pool area, a large water park complete with water slides, and a number of additional pools dotted around. There are also some fantastic saunas and steam rooms in an adult only section.

There’s a couple of restaurants here (including a very impressive one with interesting local foods and using the techniques of Dr Rudolf Steiner). Terme Sveti Martin is also one of the best family resorts in Croatia with accommodation in apartments or lodges throughout the site so while you may visit for the day it’s also somewhere you can come and stay for longer.

It’s a real retreat and the perfect place for some relaxation and me-time.

Map of possible day trips from Zagreb

Here is the map of all the places mentioned above, to give you a better idea of where to find them

Final thoughts on day trips from Zagreb

As you can see there are so many options to go for some great day trips to Zagreb. Be sure to plan your stay in the Croatian capital so you can also have time to see some of the places beyond the city. You will quickly see that Croatia has so much more to offer than it seems at first!

Further reading

I published many articles about Croatia that you might find useful when planning your trip there. Here are some of them:

• 33 Best Places to Visit in Croatia
• 25 Wonderful Things to Do in Zagreb, Croatia
• The Bay of Abandoned Hotels in Kupari, Croatia – the Urbex Heaven
• 23 Amazing Things to Do in Dubrovnik, Croatia
• How to visit Krka National Park in Croatia
• 11 Perfect Day Trips From Split, Croatia
• 17 Fantastic Things to Do in Hvar, Croatia
• Visiting the Abandoned Željava Air Base in Croatia
• and many more!

If you are looking for articles about a specific destination – check out the map with all the articles I’ve published (and their locations). You can also join my Facebook group about traveling in the Balkans and ask your questions there.

Travel Resources

You can find the best accommodation options at Booking . They have many discounts and excellent customer service. Click here to look for the place to stay in Zagreb

Never travel without travel insurance , you never know what might happen and better safe than sorry. You can check the insurance policy for Croatia here.

I recommend joining organized tours to get to know the place better and to visit more places during your trip. You can find a great selection of tours at Get Your Guide – click here .

For the end I left a few announcements that might interest you:

• Sign up to my newsletter or follow me on Bloglovin to get updates about the new posts
• Join my Facebook group about Eastern Europe, the Balkans and former USSR and connect with fellow travellers and enthusiasts of these regions – just click here!
• I’ve included a few handy links of services and products I personally like and use so you can plan your own trip to Croatia too. They are often affiliate links. This means I will get a small commission if you book/purchase anything through my links, at no extra costs for you. Thank you!

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This is a nice overview of best places to visit as daytrips from Zagreb. But if you go to Pula or Zadar, have in mind that the trip will be more then 3 hours one way with car – if you are lucky and no traffic jams are present. And the travel price will be high because of distance and highway fee. I would add some more daytrips for someone with more time. Osijek – another 3 hour highway drive. Biggest city in Slavonia region. Čakovec – town 15 minutes north of Varaždin. Kalnik fortress in north Croatia. Slavonski Brod – second biggest city in Slavonia. Đakovo – beautiful cathedral. Rijeka – seaside city, on the way to Pula. Bjelovar, Križevci, Koprivnica, Đurđevac, Virovitica, Ludbreg, Ogulin – if you have even more extra days. Enjoy in Croatia!

Thank you for these suggestions!

yes, Valentin is raight! It takes arownd 5 h to get to Zadar but i alsow recomed, if youd like going farther, going to Briuni, Osijek or Đakovo, croati has lots of places to see. enjoy youre trip!

Thank you for your input, I really appreciate it!

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Home » Travel Guides » Croatia » 15 Best Day Trips from Zagreb

15 Best Day Trips from Zagreb

The Croatian capital is a veritable hotbed of incredibly rich history, architecture and culture that wonderfully manifests itself in the form of charming cobblestone streets, bustling markets and Baroque cathedrals.

The quintessentially historic city offers fascinating sights and UNESCO-listed attractions, but some of the best kept secrets in the area lie outside the city limits.

The pockets of natural beauty dotted around the capital include everything from lakes, waterfalls and beautiful sweeping forests to majestic castles nestled among the rural countryside.

The variety of attractions around Zagreb is stunning, and visitors are usually spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding what type of day trip to embark on.

Here are some of the best ones to get you started.

1. Plitvice Lakes

Home to 16 of the most breathtakingly stunning lakes in Croatia, meticulously preserved by the government to maintain their pristine natural beauty, the Plitvice Lakes make a phenomenal day trip for those looking to escape the landlocked capital.

In a few hours you’ll reach the crystal-clear waters, complete with waterfalls that cascade all year round.

Noticeably more popular during summer, the lakes form a natural playground for those looking to relax in the sun and explore the national park.

Some of the lakes offer gorgeous forest walks that fringe their shores and others provide excellent views of turquoise falls; the Plitvice Lakes have something for every nature lover.

Recommended tour : Rastoke & Plitvice Lakes National Park Tour from Zagreb

2. Kumrovec

Almost straddling the Slovenian border in northern Croatia, Kumrovec is a classic day trip for visitors and locals who want to gain a fascinating insight into what life was like on a traditional village in the Zagorje region.

Surrounded by charming vineyards and thriving farms, the village’s center is an open-air ethnographic museum known as Kumrovec’s Old Village Museum.

Here you’ll find a mixture of political history with a focus on the communist leader, Tito, numerous quaint displays depicting life for the traditional peasant farmer, and some stalls selling truly delicious fresh produce.

Suggested tour : Kumrovec, Trakoscan Castle and Varazdin Tour from Zagreb

Home of hiking and hearty eating, Samobor is an incredibly pretty traditional Croatian town that is widely recognized as one of the most popular day trips to take from Zagreb, for both locals from the capital and visitors too.

Here you’ll find inviting cobbled streets flanked by brightly painted Baroque buildings and a multitude of truly excellent restaurants specialising in locally caught game.

Those who want to work up an appetite or simply want to escape into nature can enjoy the ideal hiking conditions in the wooded hills surrounding Samobor.

Whatever you decide, it’s almost criminal to leave the town without trying their famous cream cake delicacy known as samoborska kremšnita.

Close to the Serbian border, the city of Osijek has been growing in popularity thanks to its unparalleled and characteristic Baroque architecture, which is easily some of the most impressive outside of the capital.

Found in the far east of the country, Osijek is home to neat, paved roads, grand squares and some truly impressive buildings.

The central citadel of Tvrda overlooking the River Drava is one of the must-see sights in the city, whilst the Church of St Peter and St Paul is an unforgettable combination of Gothic opulence and numerous striking spires.

5. Lake Bled

Slovenia’s most popular mountain getaway is easily reachable from the Croatian capital in the space of a day, and is a beautiful combination of alpine peaks, gorgeous lakes, castles and churches.

The nation’s beloved Lake Bled can be found in the Julian Alps.

It is a picture-perfect destination not just for those looking for romantic scenery, but also for those in search of outdoor adventure.

Between the canyons, lakes, and mountains, there are endless opportunities for hiking, canoeing and climbing surrounding Lake Bled, attracting all manner of travellers – locals and backpackers alike.

Available tour : From Zagreb: Ljubljana and Lake Bled Tour

The peaceful Croatian town of Dakovo is characterised by the vast expanses of cornfields surrounding it.

One can easily spend the day exploring these before even setting foot among the pretty buildings that populate Dakovo.

However, the main reason people visit is the gorgeous landmark in the center known as Dakovo Cathedral, complete with soaring towers and attractive red brick masonry.

Here, you’ll find several folkloric events held throughout the year, which make for a perfect small-town getaway in contrast with the busy city of Zagreb.

7. Lonjsko Polje

The enormous natural preserve known as Lonjsko Polje is a vast strip of marshland that follows the course of the Sava River.

It contains a series of traditional villages in the confines of its 50,000 acres that are representative of traditional rural Croatia.

The highlight of these is the village of Krapje, where you can observe typically designed wooden houses built along the riverbanks.

Not only is it a cultural phenomenon for this reason, but the park also contains an astonishing diversity of bird, plant, mammal and fish species, thanks to its nourishing environment.

You can marvel at the ecological diversity on various well-marked hiking and cycling routes.

Zagreb’s very own prime skiing destination is frequented by world-class athletes, and Sljeme also doubles up as a beautiful green getaway during the summer when the snow melts.

As part of the Medvednica National Park, this hilly region populated by lush pine forests is home to various chalets and eateries, providing welcome rest stops for hikers exploring the crisp slopes.

The skiing opportunities are accessible for all skill levels, making it the perfect day trip for amateur skiers or travellers who simply wish to discover this slice of alpine Croatia.

9. Ljubljana

The capital city of Slovenia is only a couple of hours away from Zagreb and offers a wealth of cultural and historical attractions that are well worth the cross-border journey.

Ljubljana is densely packed with seemingly endless gorgeous Baroque buildings, a great number of which are UNESCO-listed and most of which can be found in the captivating Old City center.

The Art Nouveau atmosphere is enough to keep any visitor wandering wide-eyed through the streets, and beautiful attractions like the majestic Triple Bridge are close to one another and easy to find.

Available tour : Full-Day Ljubljana & Postojna Cave Tour

10. Krapina

A rural area in the hilly region near the Slovenian border, Krapina is famed far and wide for its density of mansions belonging to the past aristocracies, as well as several beautiful cathedrals and castles.

However, aside from wandering the pretty streets of the town of Krapina, visitors will want to also turn their attention to the Krapina Neanderthal Museum.

This museum is dedicated to the groundbreaking discovery of the remains of an early human community in the surrounding area, and attracts fascinated visitors each year to gain insight into their lives.

11. Kopački rit

Nestled in the countryside of Slavonia, you’ll find the gorgeous waters of the wetlands of the Kopački rit nature park which sees the merging of the Danube and Drava rivers.

Here you can marvel at the pristine condition the park has remained in because of its relative difficulty to access.

This untouched natural perfection comes in the form of herds of majestic deer and wild boar, not to mention an incredible diversity of bird species.

Though it’s possible to visit the park by car, the preferred and far more rewarding method is via boat.

12. Varaždin

The old capital of Croatia more than two centuries ago is a proudly Baroque city that lies close to the country’s border with neighbouring Slovenia and Hungary.

The architecture is arguably the city’s main attraction, and its opulent style can be seen in castles, churches and other impressive sites almost everywhere.

These ornate buildings also play host throughout the year to numerous music events and cultural festivals that celebrate the Baroque theme, making Varaždin one of the most culturally rich day trips to take from the capital.

Suggested tour : From Zagreb: Varazdin Baroque Town & Trakoscan Castle

13. Risnjak

Less than two hours from Zagreb, but seemingly a world away, lies the quintessentially alpine and gorgeously untouched mountainous region of Gorski kotar.

Here you’ll find the Risnjak National Park, a huge expanse of forested slopes that plays home to a great number of wild animals, from bears to lynx.

It goes without saying that the hiking here is phenomenal, with many areas of the park reminiscent of the Swiss Alps, including everything from snow-capped peaks to pine carpeted foothills.

14. Zagorje

The northern region of Zagorje, though close to Zagreb, feels completely detached from the pace of life found in the city, and contains some of the nation’s most beautiful and beloved national parks within its mountainous snowscapes.

Other than the incredible hiking that can be found in Zagorje, thanks to its pristine, natural preserves, there are also a multitude of cultural attractions to be found in the region.

It has the highest density of castles in Croatia – an impressive feat considering the amount found throughout the country – and some are truly breath taking.

Highlights include Veliki Tabor and Trakošćan, two of the largest in the entire nation.

Suggested tour : From Zagreb: Varazdin and Zagorje Castles Private Tour

15. Rastoke

The road leading to the Plitvice Lakes hides a hidden gem unknown to many visitors, but a firm favourite amongst locals looking for a picturesque getaway from the city – the impossibly beautiful watermill village of Rastoke.

The 300-year-old village sits on the water’s edge at a point where the Slunjčica braches out into various small cascades.

It makes for an incredibly scenic combination of nature and human ingenuity.

You can spend hours wandering around and snapping photos of the typical, traditional mills, some dating as far back as the 1600’s.

15 Best Day Trips from Zagreb:

• Plitvice Lakes
• Lonjsko Polje
• Kopački rit

T his post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see my  full disclosure  for further information.

10 of the Best Day Trips From Zagreb

Table of Contents 👇

Looking for the best day trips from Zagreb? I’ve got you covered!

Whether you’re just landing at Zagreb airport to kick off an unforgettable Croatian road trip, or you’ve got a couple of days to get to know the capital, there’s no shortage of incredible things to do.

I’ve lived in Zagreb since 2014 and spent countless weekends discovering the many day trips that are easily accessible from the city. Beyond the hustle and bustle of urban life, just a few hours away, you’ll find a range of different experiences. Think fairytale castles, thundering waterfalls, countryside havens, and enchanting riverside escapes.

So, if you’re wondering what to do after you’ve ticked off the must-see places in Zagreb, you’re in the right place! I’ve put together this guide to the best day trips from Zagreb based on my favorite years of exploring the region.

Trust me, you’ll want to extend that itinerary of yours to include some of these amazing spots.

So after you’re done sightseeing in the city, rent a car, hire a driver, or join an organized tour to one of the best day trips from Zagreb on this list!

The northern-most region of Croatia, Međimurje, sits right near the Hungarian border. For many years, Međimurje County was actually part of Hungary, which explains the strong Hungarian influence on the area, particularly the regional cuisine.

Čakovec, the largest town in Međimurje, is located about an hour away from Zagreb. This charming little town is wonderful to walk through, offering streets lined with colorful umbrellas, unique museums, and even an incredibly well-preserved castle.

After walking through the city, make your way to Terbotz for lunch. This restaurant is located along the winding wine roads of Međimurje, making the 15-minute drive to Terbotz incredibly scenic.

Offering excellent regional food, amazing views from the terrace, and a wonderful staff, Terbotz is an absolute must during a visit to Međimurje County. Don’t miss out on sampling some of the restaurant’s award-winning wines and tasting Međimurje’s famous dessert, gibanica , served with a side of pumpkin seed ice cream.

Finish off your visit by driving along the wine roads to the Hill of Mađerka (Mađerkin Breg), a spectacular landscape that mirrors the rice terraces found in Bali, Indonesia . The only real difference is that the terraces in Međimurje are filled with grapevines!

At the top of the hill, you can enjoy a glass (or two) of Štampar wine while taking in the views of the valleys and vineyards below. It is the perfect spot to watch the sun go down and to end a memorable day trip to Međimurje.

Mrežnica River

Located just a sixty-minute drive away from Zagreb is a beautiful riverside oasis situated on the banks of the Mrežnica River.

This day trip destination is well-known among the locals but remains a hidden gem to foreigners visiting Croatia . It’s one of the best places to visit near Zagreb if you love authentic experiences and enjoy spending time in nature.

To get there, type in “ Mrežnička Kuća” into Google Maps. This will lead you to a large parking lot where you can leave your car. From there, you will follow the signs to Mrežnička Kuća and walk down the hill about 300 feet (100 meters).

Once you’ve descended the hill, you’ll reach the House of Mrežnica ( Mrežnička Kuća ). This typically traditional restaurant has expanded its summer offer by creating an outdoor living room complete with lounge chairs and comfy seating areas along the grassy banks of the river. They have an international food menu from which you can order foodie favorites like Pad Thai, burritos, fish & chips, and even Beyond Meat burgers.

Some people visit the House of Mrežnica just for lunch, while others love to grab a spot and spend the entire day there swimming, eating, and relaxing. You can jump in for a swim right off the shores of the restaurant property, or if you walk a few minutes up the river, you’ll reach a lovely, shallow swimming area. If you don’t fancy swimming in the river, the House of Mrežnica also offers affordable canoe rentals.

Trakošćan Castle

Trakošćan Castle is one of the top places to visit outside Zagreb. Occupying a romantic hilltop in the Zagorje region of Northern Croatia, Trakošćan is undoubtedly one of the most well-preserved and famous castles in the entire country.

Constructed in the 13th century, the castle is believed to have been built as an observation fortress as a part of a defense network. Since its establishment, the castle has passed through the hands of a number of different owners and is now the property of the Croatian government.

Visitors to this castle can meander through its interior, admiring medieval weapons, armor, antique furniture, scripts, and paintings that date back centuries. The castle itself overlooks a beautiful man-made lake and lush green forest. There is a restaurant on the lake where you can grab a coffee or a bite to eat while enjoying the magical medieval setting.

Other options for enjoying this gorgeous area include renting a paddleboat to take out onto the lake, or bringing your own picnic and finding the perfect spot from which you can admire the whimsical castle views.

Vuglec Breg

Not too far from Trakošćan Castle is the restaurant and winery known as Vuglec Breg .

In the Zagorje dialect, the word “breg” translates to “hill”, upon which this beautiful countryside restaurant is situated. Vuglec Breg has become a popular weekend day trip among Zagreb locals. If you want a taste of the Croatian countryside combined with picturesque scenery and Michelin-worthy cuisine, then Vuglec Breg should be on your list of places to visit around Zagreb.

Housed on a rural property in the hills of Zagorje, Vuglec Breg serves traditional Croatian cuisine using authentic and locally sourced ingredients. Head to Vuglec to enjoy panoramic views, incredible homemade wine, and some of the best Croatian dishes you’ll taste during your visit!

One of the best day trips from Zagreb, and perhaps the most common one, is a visit to Samobor.

Zagreb locals flock to this charming town for its abundance of hiking opportunities and famous custard cake – the Samoborska kremšnita .

There are a number of lengthy and more difficult hikes surrounding the Samobor Old Town, but the easiest and quickest one can be done in about twenty minutes. This is the hike up to the Samobor castle ruins, also known as Stari Grad Samobor . To get there, start from the main square and follow the road along the river toward Livadic Castle, and keep walking along the path until you reach the sign for Stari Grad Samobor. Turn left at the sign and follow the path up to the top of the hill (it should only take about 10-15 minutes). Although the castle is no longer intact, the ruins are worth exploring, and the views from the top are spectacular!

Once you’re back in town, be sure to head to either the cake shop U Prolazu or the cafe at Hotel Livadic to sample the town’s famous cream cake. These are the two most popular places in town to get the Samoborska kremšnita and, depending on when you visit, you might have to wait in line to get your hands on one.

Varaždin is a historic town located less than an hour away from Zagreb. Formerly the capital of Croatia, Varaždin is now a tranquil getaway boasting some pretty spectacular Baroque-style attractions.

The Old Town Castle is the city’s major sight, which also serves as the Varaždin City Museum. Constructed in the 14th and 19th centuries, this feudal fortress sits just north of the city’s historic core and is surrounded by a moat with a drawbridge. Inside the museum, visitors can marvel at a valuable collection of paintings, weapons, porcelain, and many other items from Varaždin’s noble families and wealthy citizens.

While in Varaždin, don’t miss out on trying the local version of the cream cake – it’s similar to the one from Samobor but more compact, but with a layer of whipped cream and chocolate on top.

Plitvice Lakes

If you are traveling from Zagreb to Split, then a day trip to Plitvice Lakes is an absolute must! And if you’re not traveling to Split but you only have time for one day trip from Zagreb, then Plitvice Lakes should be it.

It’s no surprise that this national park is one of the most popular and best day trips from Zagreb . Its terraced waterfalls and stunning blue lakes surrounded by a dense forest make for some of the most unique scenery in this part of Europe.

While the park is fairly large, its main attractions can easily be explored in one morning. If you are visiting during the high season, keep in mind that day trips to Plitvice Lakes are very popular, which can make the park quite busy. I recommend going as early as possible and arriving as soon as the park opens. This way, you are almost guaranteed to have the park to yourself for the first hour or two as most of the tour buses begin arriving around 10:00 AM.

The drive to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb takes about two hours by car. On the way back to Zagreb, you might consider stopping at Rastoke, a small village that has literally been built over a series of waterfalls only thirty minutes away from Plitvice Lakes. There, you can stop for lunch or coffee along the river or falls before heading back to Zagreb.

Ozalj Castle

Perched on a stone cliff above the Kupa River, Ozalj Castle makes for a lovely day trip if you are looking for a more off-the-beaten-path destination.

Ozalj Castle is not necessarily a huge tourist attraction, but it makes for a great day trip or road trip stop nonetheless. Entry to the castle itself is free, but if you want to visit the museum you’ll have to pay a fee of 20 kn (around $3.15). Inside the museum, visitors can admire medieval weapons, ancient pottery, as well as historic artwork.

Not too far from the castle is Etno Park Ozalj, an open-air museum where visitors can witness traditional architecture and various household objects that were used by Croatian families before the industrial age.

Visited Ozalj castle while staying at one of the coolest Airbnbs in Croatia! Check it out here , it’s called Ekodrom Estate.

If you are looking to venture out of Croatia for the day, then a day trip from Zagreb to Ljubljana might just be for you.

While Ljubljana is one of the smallest European capitals, its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and riverside cafes are bursting with charm. Not to mention the fact that no matter where you turn in the city, the Ljubljana Castle is almost always visible!

This city is known for its green spaces, and even earned the title Green Capital of Europe in 2016 from the European Commission.

The entire city center is pedestrian-only, leaving it to be explored on a bike or on foot. In the summertime, the cafes along the Ljubljanica River come alive with outdoor seating and locals catching up with friends and family. It’s a capital that’s buzzing with positivity, romantic bridges, and friendly locals.

Be sure to make your way up to the castle before you leave! You can visit Ljubljana Castle either by foot or by cable car. Unless you enjoy ridiculously steep hills, then I recommend taking the cable car up to the top.

Lake Bled is a magical, stunning, and breathtaking natural paradise located right near the Julian Alps.

As if views of the sapphire blue lake and surrounding lush green forests weren’t enough, Lake Bled also has its own castle. Perched on top of a mountain, Bled Castle watches over the entire lake, and the views from the top are pretty hard to beat – they even come with a glass of wine. That’s right! You can treat yourself to a wine-tasting at the Bled Castle Wine Cellar.

The second best thing to do at Lake Bled is to rent a kayak and take it out onto the lake (preferably you would do this before the wine tasting but hey, I’m not here to judge). You can row out to the little church perfectly placed on Slovenia’s only natural island and toll the wishing bell for good fortune.

A day trip from Zagreb to Ljubljana with a visit to Lake Bled is totally doable if you have your own car, or if you hop on a tour that stops in both destinations.

Best Day Trips From Zagreb: Final Thoughts

That wraps up the 10 best day trips from Zagreb ! As you can tell from this list, there is so much to see within a day’s reach of Zagreb, Croatia. From lesser-known destinations to neighboring countries, no matter which one of these day trips you choose, you’re bound to make some unforgettable memories.

Before you go, make sure you check out the best hotels in Zagreb !

You Might Also Like:

• Is Zagreb Safe to Visit? (Local’s Guide)
• 27 BEST Cafes in Zagreb (Local’s Guide)
• Is There Uber in Croatia?
• The Ultimate Croatia Packing List – Based on 25 Years of Experience
• Croatia Hidden Gems You’ll LOVE
• Is it Worth Visiting Zagreb?
• How to Spend 48 Hours in Zagreb
• What Language Do They Speak in Croatia?
• Is Croatia Expensive to Visit? (Local Guide)

💸 What is the currency in Croatia? As of January 1st, 2023, the official currency of Croatia is the Euro and NOT the Kuna (which is also the name of the national animal of Croatia ). 🇭🇷 What language do they speak in Croatia? Croatian is the official language of Croatia . Learn some phrases in Croatian before your trip with the Ling app ! 🚑 Should I buy Croatia travel insurance? 10000% YES – Seriously, don’t leave home without it . You never know what can happen on the road. I like SafetyWing because they provide excellent coverage for as little as $1.50 a day. 📱 Will my phone work in Croatia? Maybe – check with your provider to see if you’ll have service while traveling Croatia. If you don’t have service (or it’s too expensive) I recommend getting an eSIM like Airalo . Airalo allows you to have data while traveling without the high costs of roaming. They have super affordable plans available for 190+ countries, including Croatia. Download the app and get your plan before you leave home so that you have data as soon as you touch down in Croatia! 🏨 What’s the best way to book my Croatia accommodations? For Croatia hotels, Booking is by far the best site. 🛫 What’s the best site to buy Croatia flights? I always use Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights. 🚗  Is it safe to rent a Car in Croatia? Yes! – In fact, renting a car in Croatia is one of the best ways to see the country! I recommend Discover Cars because they check both local and international rental companies to ensure you get the best deal. (Get your Croatia road trip itinerary here ) 💦 Is it safe to drink the water in Croatia? Tap water in Croatia is completely safe to drink , so bring your reusable water bottle and fill up! 🪪 Do I need a visa for Croatia? Depending on where you are coming from you may or may not need a visa to enter Croatia. Check the official Republic of Croatia Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for more information on who should apply for a visa.

Fueled by her passion for travel and her Croatian heritage, Olivia left the USA in 2014 to study abroad in Croatia where she has been living ever since. She founded Inspired by Croatia to share travel tips, destination guides, and exclusive local insights about the country she now calls home.

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20 Best Day Trips from Zagreb Croatia, by a Local

By: Author Milijana

Posted on Published: July 31, 2023  - Last updated: April 25, 2024

Categories CROATIA

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Are you searching for the best Zagreb day trips?! If so, perfect! You can’t get better recommendations than from a local! I have been living in Zagreb on and off for the past 25 years. And here are my recommendations on the best places to visit near Zagreb and the best day trips from Zagreb, Croatia!

Zagreb, the capital of Croatia , is a popular travel destination among digital nomads and slow travelers for its central European location, cool work-friendly cafes, great co-working spaces, quirky bars, funky eaters, and good restaurants.  Zagreb is known for its greenery. It is a liveable and walkable city with a lot of green parks (Maksimir Park, Ribnjak Park, Zrinjevac Park, Opatovina Park, Cmrok Park, Jelenovac Park, Dubravkin Put Park, etc.), lovely lakes (Jarun Lake and Bundek Lake), a lack of crime, and an efficient public transport (city trams and buses). The fantastic geographical location of Zagreb makes the city especially attractive to slow travelers who wish to explore the region. Many famous European destinations are within short driving distance from Zagreb.  Here are the driving distances and times from Zagreb to some of them: Ljubljana, Slovenia:  142 km; 1 h 42 min Venice, Italy : 378 km, 4 h  Vienna, Austria:  372 km; 4 h Budapest, Hungary:  345 km; 3 h 30 min Split, Croatia:  410 km; 3 h 50 min These destinations are great weekend trips from Zagreb. Having a car is the most convenient way to go around Croatia and explore the region. Therefore, I suggest checking out rental cars in Zagreb! You might get surprised by how affordable they could be! Zagreb is also a good base for exploring other parts of Croatia. Zagreb is only a 2-hour drive from the beaches on the Adriatic Coast, a little over 2 hours from Plitvice Lakes National Park (a top tourist attraction in Croatia), and about 40 min from Slovenia. Visiting famous Slovenian destinations, such as Ljubljana and Lake Bled, are some of the most popular day trips from Zagreb. 

I have been living in Zagreb on and off for the past 25 years. I assume we agree that there are no better recommendations than from locals. So, if you are searching for the top recommendations on the best places to visit near Zagreb and the best day trips from Yagreb, here are mine. Here is my list of the best day trips from Zagreb, Croatia! Here’s my collection of the best day trips from Zagreb by train, the best day trips from Zagreb by car, the best Zagreb to Slovenia day trips, the best day trips to the beaches near Zagreb Croatia, etc.

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED LINKS. PLEASE READ MY  DISCLAIMER  FOR MORE INFO.

How to get to Trakošćan from Zagreb?

How to get to plitvice lakes from zagreb, how to get to rastoke from zagreb , how to get from zagreb to varaždin , how to get from zagreb to opatija, how to get to samobor from zagreb .

• How to get to Zadar from Zagreb? 

How to get to Ljubljana from Zagreb? 

How to get from zagreb to lake bled , how to get from zagreb to postojna cave , how to get from zagreb to bohinj lake, how to get from zagreb to sljeme, how to get to veliki tabor from zagreb, how to get to plešivica from zagreb , how to get to crikvenica from zagreb, how to get from zagreb to krk, how to get to graz from zagreb, how to get to istria from zagreb, how to get from zagreb to piran, map of the best day trip destinations from zagreb, best day trips from zagreb croatia.

If you are looking for great day trips from Zagreb, here are the best day trips from Zagreb. One Day Trips from Zagreb

1. Trakošćan 

Distance: 80 km  Time: 1 hour

Want to see a fairytale castle near Zagreb? Visit Trakošćan Castle!  Trakošćan castle is the most visited castle in Croatia. It receives about 40.000 visitors a year. Trakošćan Castle is only 80 km from Zagreb. It is a 13th-century castle and a former home to the medieval aristocratic Drašković family. Today Trakošćan Castle is a museum. The castle has its original medieval furnishings. The stunning castle sits on a tiny hill on a small lake in the idyllic 90-ha forested area with scenic trails. To walk the famous Path of the Fairies takes up to two hours. Besides that, there is a nice restaurant on the lake, where you can enjoy lunch.  The fairytale Trakošćan Castle is one of the loveliest places near Zagreb. The castle is open year-round. It is open from 9 am to 6 pm from April to October and from 9 am to 4 pm from November to March. The admission fee is 4 € . 

Trakošćan Castle is only an hour’s drive from Zagreb. The easiest way is to visit it by car. Visiting Trakošćan Castle is a top Zagreb day trip by car. Getting from Zagreb to Trakošćan by public transport is somewhat complicated, as you would need to take a public bus and then a short taxi ride. Luckily, daily tours run from Zagreb to Trakošćan. You can join a tour and visit Trakošćan on a guided day trip from Zagreb. Check out Zagreb: Fairytale Castle Day Trip with Wine Tasting & Lunch .

2. Plitvice Lakes 

Distance: 140 km  Time: 2 hours and 15 min

Visiting Plitvice Lakes NP is the most popular day trip from Zagreb. Plitvica Lakes National Park is the most famous natural attraction in Croatia. It is the most visited national park in Croatia. The park receives over 1 million visitors a year.   Plitvice Lakes NP is famous for its surreal beauty. The waterfalls, lakes, caves, meadows, and forests seem like fictional Narnia. The park has 16 waterfalls and 30 lakes. Walking the magical trails amid breathtaking waterfalls and lakes of Plitvice Lakes NP makes a perfect day trip from Zagreb. Read my detailed guide on How to Visit Plitvice Lakes NP for more info on what to see and what to do in Plitvice Lakes NP. 

It is easy to visit Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb! A bus from Zagreb will take you to Plitvice Lakes in about 2 hours and 20 min. If you are driving, be assured that the roads are well-maintained and safe. Besides that, you will witness beautiful natural scenery on your way from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes.  Renting a car in Croatia will give you flexibility for exploring the country. However, if you prefer guided tours, this tour is the most popular tour from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes.   You can visit Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb by bus too. About ten buses run from Zagreb Central Bus Station to Plitvice Lakes a day in summer. 

Distance: 105 km Time: 1 hour and 30 min 

Rastoke is nicknamed mini Plitvice Lakes. Rastoke is a picturesque village set on the place where the Slunjčica River gets into the Korana River. Rastoke is famous for its idyllic scenery featuring cascading waterfalls, rivers, old traditional houses, beautiful riverside trails, and lovely picnic spots.

Rastoke is near Plitvice Lakes. Rastoke and Plitvice Lakes are only 30 min apart. Thus, you can visit Rastoke and Plitvice Lakes on a same-day trip from Zagreb. 

The easiest way to visit Rastoke from Zagreb is to join a tour from Zagreb. As I said, visiting Rastoke and Plitvice Lakes NP is often offered on the same tour from Zagreb. On this tour , you will see Plitvice and Rastoke in one day. 

If you drive, an hour and a half drive will get you from Zagreb to Rastoke. A bus ride from Zagreb Central Bus Station to Rastoke takes about 2 hours. A one-way bus ticket costs 11 €.

5. Varaždin 

Distance: 87 km  Time: 1 h and 10 min 

Varaždin is one of the most beautiful cities in Croatia. It is a city famous for its Baroque and Rococo architecture. Varaždin is nicknamed ‘the Little Vienna’. 

This historical city was also the capital of Croatia for twenty years, from 1756 until 1776. The 1776 big fire destroyed much of the city, and the administrative seat of Croatia moved over to Zagreb. However, Varaždin got renowned and rebuilt in the 19th century. 

Today you can enjoy the beautiful Baroque palaces, churches, Varaždin Castle, and romantic cobblestone streets in Varaždin. Varaždin is also known for having the most beautiful cemetery in Croatia. It is one of the most beautiful cemeteries in Europe. So, don’t miss out on visiting Varaždin cemetery while in the town.

Varaždin is a walkable city. Stroll the city and have a leisurely day in Varaždin on a day trip from Zagreb! 

If you love history or have a romantic soul, you will love Varaždin. 

You can easily visit Varaždin from Zagreb by car or a public bus. It takes only one hour from Zagreb to Varaždin by car. Visiting the Baroque city of Varaždin is among the best day trips from Zagreb by car. Buses to Varaždin run several times a day from Zagreb Main Bus Station. However, an average bus ride from Zagreb to Varaždin takes two hours. A one-way bus ticket from Zagreb to Varaždin costs from 7 € to 14 €. 

But you can also get a Bla Bla Car ride from Zagreb to Varaždin for only 5 €. Many people commute to Zagreb-Varaždin daily. Finding a Bla Bla car ride from Zagreb to Varaždin and vice versa is easy. 

Also, check out Varazdin Baroque Town and Trakoscan Castle – Small Group Day Trip from Zagreb tour if you prefer guided tours. 

6. Opatija 

Distance: 175 km Time: 2 hours 

Opatija is a famous seaside resort town in Croatia. It was a fashionable resort of the Austrian Hungarian Empire. Today you can still see the gorgeous villas from those times. The town is famous for its Habsurg-era villas, a 12-km long lungo mare seafront promenade (that connects towns of Volovsko, Opatija, and Lovran), the 14th century Abbey of St Jacob, the gorgeous St. Jacob’s Park, the church of St Jacob, the 19th century Villa Angiolina (today a museum) and Angiolina park. 

Visiting Opatija is among the best day trips from Zagreb for sea lovers. Visiting Opatija makes a great beach trip from Zagreb. Swim in the Adriatic Sea, walk Opatija lungo mare, see the villas, and enjoy seafood for lunch on a day trip from Zagreb. 

Opatija is in the Kvarner Gulf on the Adriatic Sea and a 2-hour drive from Zagreb. 

Opatija is within a 2-hour drive from Zagreb. Buses run from Zagreb Main Bus Station to Opatija daily. But, an average bus ride from Zagreb to Opatija takes 3 hours. Do not worry about a long ride! You can still visit Opatija on a day from Zagreb. Get on the bus in Zagreb early in the morning and return to Zagreb in the evening. Remember, the sun gets down around 9 pm in Croatia in June and around 8.30 pm in July. Besides that, you can join Opatija, Rijeka, and Trsat tour from Zagreb , and visit Opatija with two more beautiful places on a day trip from Zagreb.

7. Samobor 

Distance: 25 km Time: 35 min

Samobor is the favorite weekend gateway of Zagrebčana (the locals from Zagreb). Samobor is a cute small town surrounded by Nature Park Žumberak – Samoborsko Gorje Hill Range. 

Historical buildings, charming cafes, and crafts shops (like traditional crystal shops, candle shops, and pastry shops) fill the center of the town. Locals from Zagreb often go to the serene Samobor for a day trip to enjoy leisure strolls, food, and drinks in Samobor. 

Samobor is famous for its food. Savoring popular Samobor cakes and pastries is a must-do in Samobor. Take the Samobor Town and Castle Walking Tour to learn more about the town and try out samoborske kremšnite (traditional cream custard cakes from Samobor) and samoborske krafne (doughnuts from Samobor)! 

Samobor is only 30 30-minute drive from Zagreb Samobor is the shortest day trip from Zagreb. 

Buses run from Zagreb Main Bus Station to Samobor every hour. A one-way ticket is 3 €. Samobor is also a 30 min-drive from Zagreb if you travel to Croatia by car.  You can also join a 4-hour Picturesque Samo bor & Samobor Castle Half-day Tour and enjoy a walking tour of Samobor with sampling traditional Samobor cakes.

8. Zadar 

Distance: 285 km Time: 3 hours 

Everyone agrees Zadar is one of the most beautiful cities in Croatia. Cities like Dubrovnik and Split are more popular among tourists. But, Zadar is getting higher recognition among visitors each year. The Old City of Zadar lies on a lovely peninsula on the Adriatic Sea. The pedestrian-friendly city is filled with historical and cultural monuments, while the sea vibe goes throughout Zadar. Alfred Hitchcock claimed that Zadar has the most beautiful sea sunset in the world. Many Zadar visitors tend to agree with him. 

The most famous tourist attractions in Zadar are the Cathedral of St Anastasia, the ancient Roman Forum, the 9th century Church of St Donatus, the Peoples Square, the historic Kalelarga main street, the Riva seafront promenade, the Sea Organ (a unique sea instrument that creates music by the sea waves) and the Greeting to the Sun installation (a solar-powered art monument).  

How to get to Zadar from Zagreb?  

You can reach Zadar from Zagreb by car, bus, and Bla Bla Car rideshare. The best way to reach Zadar from Zagreb is by car. Zadar is within 3 hours of Zagreb by car. So, consider renting a car or taking a rideshare via Bla Bla Bla Car. A bus ride from Zagreb to Zadar takes 3 hours and 30 min.

9. Ljubljana 

Distance: 138 km Time: 2 hours and 10 min 

Beautiful Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, is one of the prettiest cities in Europe. The emerald-green Ljubljanica river flows through the city, while the medieval Ljubljana castle overlooks the downtown from Castle Hill. Thus, when in Ljubljana, take a funicular to the castle to enjoy the best views of Ljubljana. However, the tiny Ljubljana downtown is explored on foot the best. Wander Ljubljana Old Town, head to the Prešern Square and the Franciscan Church, see the iconic Dragon Bridge, have a coffee break in one of the utterly charming outdoor cafes along the Ljubljanica River, go to the beautiful Tivoli Park, and trust me, you will have one o the best day trips from Zagreb. Zagreb to Ljubljana day trip is among the top trips from Zagreb for a good reason. Ljubljana is within short distance of Zagreb and it is an utterly charming city!

You can reach Ljubljana from Zagreb by car, bus, train, Bla Bla Car, and a shuttle. A train ride from Zagreb to Ljubljana takes about two hours and 10 min. A one-way train ticket is about 10 €. A bus ride from Zagreb to Ljubljana takes about two hours and 20 min with an average one-way ticket of 15 €. The cheapest way to get to Ljubljana from Zagreb is to catch a Bla Bla Car ride. Rideshare is 8 €. The fastest way to reach Ljubljana from Zagreb is by shuttle. A shuttle ride from Zagreb to Ljubljana takes one hour and 50 min. Also, consider taking Ljubljana and Bled Lak e – small group – day tour from Zagreb if you are limited with time, prefer guided tours, or want to visit Ljubljana and Bled Lake on the same trip.

10. Lake Bled

Distance: 200 km  Time: 2 hours and 10 min 

Slovenian Lake Bled is among the most famous lakes in Europe for its idyllic setting.  The picture-perfect Lake Bled is a top tourist attraction in Slovenia. The magical scenery of the blue Bled Lake, with a tiny island in the middle and the monumental Julian Alps in the background, is among the most photographed places in Europe. Lake Bled day trip from Zagreb is among the most popular day trips from Zagreb. Nature lovers can walk the trails around the lake. The walk takes an hour and a half on average. However, swimming in the lake attracts the most visitors in summer. If you love watersports, take a stand-up paddle board on the lake! Take a traditional pletna boat ride to Bled Island. Ring the wishing bell on the island to make your wish come true. Afterward, head to the Lake Bled Castle for the panoramic views of the lake and dine with the breathtaking views in the Bled Castle restaurant.

The fastest way to get to Lake Bled from Zagreb is by car. A car drive from Zagreb to Lake Bled takes 2 hours on average. However, many organized tours run from Zagreb to Lake Bled. The abovementioned Ljubljana and Bled Lake – small group – day tour from Zagreb is the best-seller day tour from Zagreb to Bled Lake.

11. Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle 

Distance: 186 km  Time: 2 hours 

Postojna Cave is one of the most amazing places in Slovenia. It is the most visited place in Slovenia and the most visited cave in Europe. Postojna Cave is a karst cave with marvelous stalagmites. The cave represents a 24 km-long network of corridors, halls, and galleries. But the best part is a tourist train that takes visitors through the cave. Predajama Castle, near the Postojna Cave, is the largest cave castle in the world. Underground tunnels connect the castle and the cave. You must take a bus to see Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle.  Postojna Cave is open every day all year round. Visiting this fascinating underground world is a must-do in Slovenia! Please bear in mind that Postojna Cave has a constant temperature of 10 C regardless of the time of the day and the year. Dress warmly and take good walking shoes.

The fastest way to get from Zagreb to Postojna Cave is by car. A car ride from Zagreb to Postojna Cave takes 2 hours on average. However, if you are not by car, you can join one of the popular day tours from Zagreb to Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle. You can visit Postojna Cave, Predjama Castel, and Ljubljana on this day tour from Zagreb.

12. Bohinj Lake 

Distance: 223 km  Time: 2 h and 40 min 

The picturesque Bled Lake is the most famous Slovenian lake. But Bohinj Lake is the most popular Slovenian lake among Slovenians. It is the largest lake in Slovenia. And it belongs to Triglav National Park.  Lake Bohinj is a nature paradise. Nature lovers can enjoy a wide range of activities on the lake. You can swim in the lake, hike the trails around the lake, cycle around the lake, kayak, or SUP on the lake. But don’t forget to see the Savica waterfall and take the Vogel cable car for the spectacular views of the Julian Alps. However, whatever you decide to do in Bohinj Lake, you must take a photo of the legendary Zlatorog / golden horn statue on the shore of Lake Bohinj! The statue is the most popular attraction of Bohinj Lake! As I said, Bohinj Lake is a haven for nature enthusiasts. If you are one of them, you might decide to stay on the lake for a few days more. In that case, check out the lovely guest houses on Lake Bohinj!

The best way to visit Bohinj Lake from Zagreb is by car. A drive from Zagreb to Bohinj Lake takes 2 hours and 40 min on average. On this Zagreb day tour , you can visit Bled Lake, Bohinj Lake, and Waterfall Savica in one day!

13. Medvednica mountain and Sljeme 

Medvednica is the mountain that overlooks Zagreb, and Sljeme is the highest peak of Medvednica. 

Medvednica is a nature park and a favorite nature gateway of people from Zagreb. Medvednica has many well-marked hiking and biking trails and mountain huts with restaurants serving delicious meals (like bean soup, mlinci dish, or cakes like strudel or germknedle ). Medvednica and Sljeme get crowded on weekends. Sljeme, the peak of Medvednica, is at 1035 m above sea level, and hiking up to Sljeme takes 2 hours on average.  If you are up for forest bathing, hike Medvednica and head to Sljeme. You can reach Sljeme by cable car (from the foot of Medvednica at Mihaljevac), by a bus (that also runs from the mountain foot at Mihaljevac), or by hiking! If you are not into a solo exploration of Sljeme, check out Zagreb – Into the Forest Walking Tour! 

Take tram No 8 (Zapruđe-Mihaljevac) from Zagreb to Mihaljevac. And then, hike, take a cable car, or take bus No 140 from Mihaljevac to Sljeme.

14. Veliki Tabor and Zagorje

Distance: 70 km  Time: 1 hour and 10 min 

Veliki Tabor Castle is a medieval fort castle near Zagreb. The castle is known for its unique architectural outlook. It has a central pentagonal tower and four towers. The noble Hungarian family owned the castle from the 16th to the 18th century. Since then, its owner has been the state. The castle is a museum today. It exhibits historical furniture and weapons.  The fort in the region is called Hrvatsko Zagorje and is only one hour drive from Zagreb. The hilly Hrvatsko Zagorje is one of the most picturesque regions in Croatia. Grešna Gorica, a popular restaurant, is just a few minutes from the castle. Visiting Veliki Tabor with lunch in Grešna Gorica makes one of the best day trips from Zagreb!

Veliki Tabor is only one hour and 10 min drive from Zagreb. I suggest visiting this breathtaking area by car. You can also visit Veliki Tabor Castle on this private day tour from Zagreb.

15.   Plešivica wineries 

Distance: 40 km  Time: 45 min 

Plešivica is a wine-producing region near Zagreb. Hilly slopes covered with vineyards make the landscapes idyllic.

This wine-producing region is best known for its red wines and sparkling wines. The most popular are authentic regional wines like Portuguese, Plavec, Šipel, and Zelenac. However, the wineries also produce famous wines like Chardonnay, Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, and Rhine Riesling. About forty family-run wineries in the region currently offer wine tastings. Some of the most notable Plešivica wineries are Šember Winery (famous for its sparking Qvevri wine), Korak Winery (known for its Chardonnay Sur Lie, and Sauvignon), Tomac Winery (their Amphora Brut Nature was in Decanter magazine!), and Jagunić Winery (their Trainer Red Amber is a must-try).

Touring Plešivica wineries is among the most popular day trips from Zagreb. If you are a wine lover, you will enjoy Wine Road Day Tour from Zagreb. On this tour, you will visit the Samobor and Plešivica wine regions. 

About 40 Plešivica wineries are along Plešivička Wine Road. The wine road goes from the town of Jastrebarsko to the hills. Jastrebarsko is 23 mi (37 km) from Zagreb. The best way to explore the wineries is by car. Drive from Zagreb to Jasterbarsko and spend a day touring Plešivica wineries. However, if you are not by car, Plesivica Hills and Samobor Tour with Wine Tasting from Zagreb is a perfect choice. 

16. Crikvenica

Distance: 170 km Time: 2 hours 

Crikvenica is the favorite beach destination of people from Zagreb. The beaches of Crkivenica get filled with Zagreb locals on summer weekends. Organized trips run daily from Zagreb to Crikvenica in the summer. You can easily book a day trip from Zagreb to Crikvenica. There are many of them! Trips usually start early in the morning and return to Zagreb late in the evening after spending the entire day in Crkvenica. 

Crikvenica lies in the Kvarner Bay on the Adriatic Coast, only 2 hours from Zagreb. Crikvenica is known for its charming old town, lovely sea promenade, and beautiful beaches. The most popular Crikvenica beach is Gradsko kupalište beach, a Blue Flag sandy beach with sun beds and umbrellas to rent. 

The heart of the town is the Old Town filled with cafes and bars and the picturesque harbor. The palm-lined promenade connects three places on the coast: Dramalj, Crikvenica, and Selce. Cafes, bars, restaurants, shops, and stores are along the promenade. However, beaches are what attract people to Crikvenica. If you like sandy beaches, choose Gradsko Kupalište. But if you enjoy more pebble beaches, head to the nearby Balustrada Beach or Kaštel Beach. If you are traveling with kids, they will love the turquoise shallow waters off Omorika Beach. But, if you seek some quiet time on the beach, go to Thalassotherapia Beach. And I almost forgot to say that Monty’s Beach is a dog-friendly beach in Crikvenica! 

The best way to get to Crikvenica from Zagreb is by car, Bla Bla car rideshare, or organized bus trip. They will get you to Crikvenica within 2 hours from Zagreb. 

Buses also run from Zagreb Main Bus Station to Crikvenica. However, a bus ride from Zagreb to Crikvenica takes 3 hours on average, with several stops on the way to Crikvenica. 

17. Krk 

Distance: 180 km Time: 2 hours and 10 min 

Wish to get an island experience from Zagreb? Head to Krk! The Krk island is the nearest island to Zagreb. A small bridge connects the island and the mainland. Many people from Zagreb have their summer houses on the Krk island. Krk is famous for its beaches but also for hiking and biking trails.  The most popular destinations on the island are the towns of Krk, Punat, Baška, and Malinska. The 2-km-long white pebble Baška beach is probably the most popular beach on the island. But, the most beautiful town on the islands is arguably the historic town of Krk.

The most popular excursions from Zagreb go to the town of Krk on the Krk island. The Old Town of Krk, with its harbor, cathedral, bars, cafes, and restaurants, is picture-prefect. If you are after beaches in the Krk town, check out pebbly Plav Beach, Ježevac Beach ( which features a mix of pebble, sand, and rock), Porporela Beach (with a sandy and pebbly section), and the family-friendly Portapisana Beach (a mixed concrete-sandy beach). 

The cheapest way to get to the town of Krk from Zagreb is by bus. A bus ride takes about 3 hours, and a one-way ticket costs 10 €. The faster way to get to Krk from Zagreb is by car. A drive from Zagreb to Krk lasts 2 hours. 

Distance: 183 km Time: 2 h and 10 min 

Interested in visiting Austria on a day trip from Zagreb? Go to Graz! Graz, the capital of Styria, is one of the loveliest cities in Austria. The Historic Center of Graz with Eggenberg Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Graz is a city of history, architecture, art, design, and fabulous local cuisine. Graz was the Cultural Capital of Europe in 2003 and a City of Culinary Delights in 2008.  Graz has a unique mix of Renaissance, Art Deco, Medieval, and modern eccentric architecture. Graz is a walkable city. You can see the majority of the city in one day on foot.  What to see in Graz in one day? The must-see sites in Graz are Schlossberg with the Clock Tower, Rathaus (City Hall), HauptPlatz (the main square), Herrengasse (the main street with historic painted houses, Murinsel ( a quirky outdoor theatre in the shape of a floating island in the middle of the river) and Kunsthaus (nicknamed the Friendly Alien for its quirky architecture), Styrian Armory (the most extensive historic armory in the world with over 32.000 exhibits) and Eggenberg Palace ( a Baroque Palace with 24 rooms and over 500 ceiling painting. The palace is a little bit outside of the city, but reachable by a city tram.) 

The fastest way to get from Zagreb to Graz is by car. A drive between Zagreb and Graz lasts about 2 hours. Graz and Zagreb are well-connected by bus and train lines. Several buses and trains are running between the cities a day. A bus ride between Zagreb and Graz lasts 3 hours on average. And a train ride can last up to 4 hours. However, there are night buses and night trains that run between Zagreb and Graz. The night buses and trains make visiting Graz on a day trip from Zagreb more comfortable. 

19. Pula & Istria 

Distance: 267 km Time: 3 hours 

Visiting Istria from Zagreb is among the most popular day trips from Zagreb among people who wish for this beautiful region but lack time for a more thorough visit. If you travel by car, you can visit the picturesque villages in Istria, like Hum, Motuvun, and Grožnjan. Tiny Hum is officially the smallest town in the world. Beautiful Motovun and charming Grožnjan are among the best-preserved European medieval hilltop settlements. But if you are joining a tour from Zagreb to Istria, a classic Istria day trip from Zagreb will take you to the beautiful cities in Istria, like Pula, Poreč, and Rovinj. The seafront cities of Pula, Poreč, and Rovinj are some of the most beautiful cities in Croatia. The most famous landmark of Pula is Pulska Arena, a well-preserved ancient Roman amphitheater. Poreč is best known for its Euphrasian Basilica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with gorgeous frescoes and mosaics. Romantic Rovinj, with its photogenic harbor, is a top tourist destination in Croatia.  An independent road trip from Zagreb to Istria will give you more flexibility to explore the region. But a day tour from Zagreb is a great option for a stressless visit to Istria in a short timeframe. 

You can visit Istria on a day trip from Zagreb by car or on a day tour. A car drive from Zagreb to Istria takes 3 hours on average. A classic day tour from Zagreb to Istria lasts about 10 hours. This private Best of Istria day tour from Zagreb will take you to Pula, Rovinj, Hum, or Poreč.

Distance: 254 km Time: 2 h and 45 min 

The seaside Piran is arguably the most beautiful town in Slovenia. It is a small town, easily explored in one day.  Beautiful Piran lies in a gulf on the Adriatic Coast in the Slovenian part of Istria. Piran is a famous Slovenian resort town and a genuine seaside pearl.  The town is highly picturesque. The Venetian architecture, the terracotta rooftops, the medieval walls, and the colorful main square create the main outlines of Piran. This lovely seaside town is full of excellent seafood restaurants and wine bars. Piran is small, pedestrian-friendly, and a perfect day trip from Zagreb.

The fastest way to reach Piran from Zagreb is by car. A car drive from Zagreb to Piran lasts less than 3 hours. Visiting Piran on the Slovenian Adriatic coast is among the best day trips from Zagreb by car.

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Home > 19 Ideas For Day Trips From Zagreb, Croatia & Beyond

19 Ideas For Day Trips From Zagreb, Croatia & Beyond

Written by our local expert SJ

Sarah-Jane has lived in Croatia for 10+ years. SJ, as she is known, has been traveling the Balkans & beyond since 2000. She now shares her passion for traveling with her husband & kids.

Welcome to my insider’s guide to the best day trips from Zagreb! Having lived in Croatia for over a decade, I’ve explored countless hidden gems and popular spots, all within a short drive from the capital of Croatia

Zagreb, the heartbeat of the nation, isn’t just a transit point—it’s a gateway to some of the most fascinating destinations in the Adriatic and Balkan regions.

Whether you’re touching down for a layover or starting your epic road trip here, Zagreb’s central location makes it an ideal base. Sure, the city itself, with its rich history, iconic clock tower, and bustling King Tomislav Square, is a great place to explore. But beyond the Croatian capital’s charm lies an array of incredible day trip adventures just waiting to be discovered.

To take one of my recommended day trips from Zagreb, you can rent a car, hire a driver , take public transportation, or join an organized tour to one of the destinations below.

From serene boat rides on the Adriatic Sea to private day tours through historical towns, there’s no shortage of experiences to be had. And the best way to uncover these treasures?

Dive into this curated list of the most popular and best Zagreb day trips, each a unique journey into the heart of Croatia’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural tapestry.

Let’s embark on these Zagreb day tours together and see what this beautiful region has in store!

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Short Day Trips From Zagreb (Under 2 Hours)

1. zagreb to plitvice lakes national park day trip.

If you only have time for one day trip from Zagreb, let it be to Plitvice Lakes National Park . Although this is a rather large park, its main attractions can be explored conveniently in one afternoon.

Several terraced lakes flow into one another in a beautifully wooded gorge in a series of waterfalls and cascades. These lakes have to be one of the most popular day trips to take from Zagreb as they are, in my opinion, the most beautiful lakes in Europe.

The other reason why Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site is so popular is that there are easy-to-navigate boardwalks that wind their way over and around the lakes and waterfalls , allowing you to see everything from up close.

The day trip from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes is no longer than two hours. However, there is so much to see and do here that we suggest setting aside a full day to explore the lakes and drive back from the most visited national park in Croatia to Zagreb before it gets too dark.

You’ll want to take your time to enjoy the sheer natural wonders of this area, so you could also consider a private tour to maximize your time and not stress about the return drive. There are plenty of companies that offer a day trip to Plitvice from Zagreb.

• How To Get From Zagreb To Plitvice Lakes

2. Zagreb To Rastoke Day Trip

Rastoke is conveniently on the way between Zagreb and Plitvice Lakes National Park; the  small town of Rastoke is a popular place to stop. Rastoke is the old town center of Slunj, filled with historic buildings and boasting surprisingly beautiful nature – the most perfect of Zagreb day trips for nature lovers.

Situated at the confluence of the Slunjcica and Korana Rivers, the town’s star attraction is its combination of waterfalls and watermills . It’s sometimes called “the small lakes of Plitvice” for a reason. Much less crowded than the nearby national park , Rastoke features similar landscapes of cascading waterfalls.

Its watermills are incredibly picturesque, and because it’s small enough to be explored in less than two hours, you’re encouraged to include Rastoke in your Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes National Park itinerary or even as a pit stop on your road trip from Zagreb to Split.

3. Zagreb To Vuglec Breg Day Trip

Vuglec Breg, located about an hour northwest of Zagreb, offers a unique blend of rural charm and wine culture. This family-run estate is set amidst rolling hills and vineyards, providing a tranquil retreat. Visitors can enjoy wine tasting, traditional Croatian cuisine , and breathtaking views of the Zagorje region.

The estate’s rustic setting makes it an ideal spot for a relaxing day trip, immersed in the tranquility of the Croatian countryside.

Our first visit to Vuglec Breg started with an unexpected discovery. We first tasted their outstanding Baronial sparkling wine at a restaurant in Marija Bistrica, which led us to this picturesque winery.  We enjoyed lunch on their balcony, starting with the same Baronial sparkling wine, a delightful blend of Chardonnay and Grasevina – I suggest that you do the same.

The visit was made even more memorable by the friendly miniature horses and a baby donkey on the property. The lunch, featuring Zagorje soup, frog legs, and roast goose, was perfectly paired with their Sauvignon Blanc and Pasion Cuvee.

Our engaging conversation with the waiter and the guided tour of their wine cellar highlighted the warmth and passion of the Vuglec Breg team. We left with a dozen bottles of wine and have been back 2 other times since!

4. Zagreb To Varazdin Day Trip

One of the northernmost towns in Croatia , Zagreb to Varazdin, is less than a one-and-a-half-hour drive each way and is an easy Zagreb day trip to make. Its location in the far north of the country keeps it off many visitors’ radar, adding only its appealing quietude .

For such a small town, Varazdin has many highlights. Once Croatia’s capital, the town is now a stunningly well-preserved Baroque town. Make sure not to miss Trg Kralja Tomislava, home to the Draskovic PalaceAlso, the Cathedral is also a sight worth seeing. Additionally, definitely visit the Stari Grad Fortress and the City Museum.

From Zagreb, you can get to Varazdin by car and bus. The latter is a convenient option if you don’t want to rent a car. If you do rent a car , you’re strongly encouraged to make a detour to Trakoscan Castle , one of Croatia’s most beautiful and most visited castles.

• Things To Do In Varazdin

5. Zagreb To Trakošćan Castle Day Trip

Atop a steep hill in Hrvatsko Zagorje, Trakošćan Castle is perhaps the most famous castle in Croatia . It overlooks a human-made lake and bountiful gardens, making it one of the best places to visit from Zagreb.

Trakošćan is less than an hour’s drive from Zagreb, the pilgrimage town of Maria Bistrica , and within minutes of the baroque city of Varaždin. Because it is so close to Zagreb, we strongly encourage you to go for a day trip there. There’s plenty to see and do en route, too.

Built in the 13th century, the original owner is still unknown, but the castle is believed to have been constructed as an observation fortress. Over the last nine centuries, many people owned Trakošćan Castle at some point. It currently belongs to the Croatian government and is one of the best-preserved castles in Croatia. You can visit a great museum with a permanent collection of paintings, furniture, and other display items.

As you walk through the museum, you are taken back in time. You’ll gaze into the eyes of ten generations of owners, spanning three centuries, whose faces are now portraited paintings. This living museum has fully set dining tables, study areas, and bedrooms complete with antique linens. Daydream as you meander along the circular staircase, which winds down and around the castle from the hunting room at the top all the way to the basement kitchen.

• Fairytale Castles In Croatia

6. Zagreb To Kumrovec Day Trip

Situated along the Sutla River in the far northwestern corner of Croatia, on the border with Slovenia , Kumrovec village is home to just under 1,600 residents. It’s a teeny, tiny Croatian village indeed. So, “Why would Kumrovec be one of the best day trips from Zagreb?” you may wonder.

Well, the town’s main feature is that it’s the birthplace of Josip Broz Tito, the army commander who later became the founder of communist Yugoslavia.

The house where Tito was born, nothing fancier than a basic peasant home, was converted into a museum during his lifetime. In the decade’s aftermath, the surrounding buildings were renovated and reconstructed. It’s also considered to be the best museum village anywhere in Croatia.

Now, the town of Kumrovec is a superb example of what a 20th-century Zagorje village looked like. As it’s called, the Ethnological Museum encompasses eighteen historic village buildings, with permanent exhibits displaying artifacts and furniture.

This is a popular destination option for Zagreb day tours if you’re into history and local culture.

• Tiny Croatia Towns & Villages

7. Zagreb To Samobor Day Trip

The nearest and most accessible day trip from Zagreb is probably Samobor. Situanly twenty kilometers to the west of the city, it’s easily reached by both car and bus. So, if you are time-poor – this is the choice for you.

Samobor is worth visiting for two main reasons—its architecture and its famous custard cake. The latter is known as Samoborska Kremsita and is said to be the best in all of Croatia. Make sure to try a slice.

Besides that, Samobor boasts lovely historic highlights , including the Stari Grad Castle, the City Museum, and the St. Anastasia and St. Anne Churches.

• Things To Do In Samobor

8. Zagreb To Ozalj Day Trip

One of the most fun  day trips from Zagreb, if you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination, is Ozalj. It sits on the banks of the picture-perfect Kupa River. It has a rich and glorious past, which becomes evident as soon as you gaze upon the Ozalj Castle.

This imposing fortress overlooks the river and is one of the top castles in Croatia . Ozalj Castle is a fascinating museum that houses art, ancient pottery, and medieval military weapons.

The Old Town of Ozalj is in the County of Karlovust, 55 kilometers from Zagreb, and an easy day trip by, train or public transport. In addition to the castle, you can also visit the St. Vitus Church and Ethno Park Trg and drive the incredible wine roads of Ozalj-Vivodina-Vrhovac. This is one of our favorite Zagreb day trips because of the area’s rural charm, notable historic sites, and great food and because we went there on a babymoon (notice my baby belly in that photo?)

• Our Favorite Cross-Body Travel Bags For Day Trips

9. Zagreb To Krapina Day Trip

Just an hour northwest of Zagreb, the town of Krapina not only offers a quaint, small-town vibe with its lovely cafes but also a unique window into prehistoric times.

The town is renowned for its Neanderthal Museum, a world-class facility that presents a fascinating and educational journey into the lives of Neanderthals. This museum is particularly famous for its display and interpretation of the Krapina Neanderthals, whose remains were discovered at the site and date back around 130,000 years.

These findings are significant as they represent one of the largest collections of Neanderthal fossils in the world, offering invaluable insights into early human history.

The exhibit creatively uses multimedia and life-sized displays to bring this ancient world to life, making it an enthralling experience for all ages. My son (then age 5) loved it, and we even went back to the start of the exhibitions to see some a second time.

As you explore Krapina, the serene atmosphere of this charming town, coupled with its rich prehistoric heritage, offers a truly unique glimpse into both ancient and traditional Croatian life.

The drive itself is a treat, as the Zagorje region, with its rolling hills and lush vineyards, paints a picturesque backdrop to this culturally rich and historic destination.

• Museums In Croatia For The Curious Traveler

10. Zagreb To Sljeme Day Trip

An easy half-hour drive from the bustling streets of Zagreb, Sljeme, crowning the peaks of Medvednica Mountain, offers a quick escape into nature’s embrace.

This local favorite is not just a scenic retreat but a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re up for hiking along its well-marked trails , cycling through its lush forests, or simply soaking in the panoramic views of Zagreb and beyond, Sljeme caters to all kinds of nature lovers.

During the winter months, Sljeme transforms into a winter wonderland, boasting a popular ski resort that attracts both beginners and seasoned skiers. The snow-covered slopes provide a different kind of thrill, making it an ideal destination for those looking to add a bit of adventure to their winter travels.

After a day spent exploring the natural beauty of Sljeme, indulge in the local culinary delights. The area is dotted with traditional restaurants where you can savor authentic Croatian dishes.

From hearty stews and grilled meats to local cheeses and wines, these hilltop eateries offer the perfect end to an active day. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a day trip to Sljeme is a refreshing way to experience the natural splendor just a stone’s throw from Croatia’s capital.

• Sljeme Ski Resort Guide

11. Zagreb To Lonjsko Polje Nature Park Day Trip

Just an hour’s drive southeast of Zagreb, the Lonjsko Polje Nature Park unfolds as a serene and expansive haven for nature enthusiasts. As one of Europe’s largest wetlands, it offers a unique landscape that is both a vital ecological zone and a stunning natural spectacle.

The park is a bird watcher’s paradise, home to numerous species, including some rare and endangered ones. It’s not uncommon to spot storks, herons, and even eagles soaring above or nesting in the park’s vast expanse.

But bird watching is just the tip of the iceberg. The park’s diverse habitats, including marshes, meadows, and oak forests, are perfect for leisurely walks, photography, and simply enjoying the tranquility of nature. The Sava River, meandering through the park, adds to its picturesque setting and offers opportunities for fishing and boat tours.

Adding to the park’s allure are the quaint, traditional wooden houses scattered in the villages around its perimeter. These charming structures, some of which are centuries old, stand as a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage. They provide a glimpse into the traditional way of life, harmoniously intertwined with nature.

For those seeking a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle, Lonjsko Polje Nature Park is an idyllic destination.

• Beautiful Nature Parks In Croatia

12. Zagreb To Međimurje Day Trip

A mere 2-hour journey north from Zagreb, the Međimurje region awaits a picturesque retreat. Known as Croatia’s ‘flower garden’, this area is a mosaic of lush vineyards, thermal springs, and quaint villages. A key highlight is Čakovec, a town rich in history with its striking Čakovec Castle, offering a glimpse into the region’s past.

Nearby, the enchanting Trakošćan Castle, set beside a tranquil lake, is a must-see for its stunning neo-Gothic architecture and scenic surroundings. For a taste of local culture, indulge in Međimurje’s unique wines and traditional cuisine, which are sure to delight your palate.

In addition, the region’s thermal springs, like Terme Sveti Martin, provide a relaxing escape with their soothing waters and spa treatments. This day trip combines the charm of rural Croatia with the allure of historical exploration, making Međimurje a captivating destination just a short drive from Zagreb.

• Things To Do In Medimurje County

13. Zagreb To Mrežnica River Day Trip

The Mrežnica River, about an hour’s drive from Zagreb, is a paradise for nature lovers.

This stunning river, with its crystal-clear waters, is perfect for kayaking, swimming, and picnicking. The numerous waterfalls and cascades along the river provide a picturesque backdrop for a day of relaxation or adventure. The area’s natural beauty makes it an ideal spot for those looking to escape the city and enjoy Croatia’s pristine outdoors.

Brands We Use And Trust

Long day trips from zagreb (over 2 hours), 14. zagreb to istria day trip.

A day trip to Istria from Zagreb is like stepping into a Mediterranean dream. It’s about a 3-hour drive each way, so I recommend you get a driver or take a tour. The journey takes you through some stunning landscapes.

Istria is famous for its truffles, olive oil , and wine, so don’t miss out on the local cuisine. The region is dotted with picturesque hilltop towns like Motovun and coastal gems like Rovinj.

Whether you’re strolling through ancient Roman ruins in Pula or enjoying the crystal-clear waters, Istria’s blend of history and natural beauty is captivating.

Here are 10 ideas (of many!) of what you can do for the day in Istria:

• The Amphitheater in Pula, a well-preserved Roman arena
• Motovun, a medieval hilltop town known for truffles
• Rovinj, with its charming old town and harbor
• The Brijuni Islands National Park accessible by boat
• Grožnjan, a hilltop village filled with artists and galleries
• The Euphrasian Basilica in Poreč, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• The medieval town of Hum, often called the smallest town in the world
• Lim Bay and Channel, known for its natural beauty and seafood
• Vrsar, a scenic coastal town with beautiful beaches
• Wine tasting tours in Istria’s renowned vineyards
• Things To Do In Istria
• Places In Istria Off The Beaten Path

15. Zagreb To Osijek Day Trip

Heading to Osijek from the capital city of Croatia is a journey of around 4 hours’ drive by car, leading you to the heart of Slavonia. This city is a hidden gem with its beautiful Baroque architecture, peaceful parks, and the Drava Riverfront. Visit the Tvrđa, the old town of Osijek, for a glimpse of history.

It’s also a great base to explore the nearby Kopački Rit Nature Park, one of Europe’s largest wetlands.

• Things To Do In Osijek

16. Zagreb To Đakovo Day Trip

About a 3-hour drive from Zagreb, Đakovo is a hidden gem that boasts the stunning Đakovo Cathedral, known officially as the Cathedral of St. Peter. This architectural marvel, completed in the 19th century, was largely the vision of Bishop Josip Juraj Strossmayer.

The cathedral is renowned for its beautiful interiors, including impressive frescoes and ornate altars, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in sacral art and architecture.

Đakovo is also famous for its State Stud Farm, home to the majestic Lipizzaner horses, a symbol of the region’s equestrian heritage. Visiting the farm, you can witness these graceful horses and learn about their history and breeding.

Timing your trip to coincide with the Đakovački vezovi (Đakovo Embroidery Festival) is highly recommended. This vibrant event, celebrated annually in July, showcases traditional folk music, dances, costumes, and, of course, the exquisite local embroidery. It’s a fantastic opportunity to experience the rich cultural tapestry of Đakovo and the wider Slavonia region.

• Things To Do In Slavonia
• Places To Go In Croatia That Seldom Make The “Lists”

Cross-Border Day Trips From Zagreb

17. zagreb to lake bled day trip.

Past Ljubljana lies Lake Bled . This iconic and extremely popular tourist destination is often included in group tours to Ljubljana from Zagreb. This lake, surrounded by tall mountains, Bled Castle , and its small picturesque island , is mesmerizing.

Bled is another excellent place in the Balkans that’s exceptionally beautiful, but of which you can quickly get a feel in just a few hours.

If you want a change from the hustle of city life in Zagreb, consider going to scenic Lake Bled . On a Lake Bled day trip from Zagreb, you will find beautiful hiking trail s around the lake and into the mountains, fascinating historical attractions, and a charming small-town atmosphere.

• Where To Stay In Lake Bled

18. Zagreb To Postojna Cave & Predjama Castle Day Trip

Situated in neighboring Slovenia (remember to bring your passport!), this day trip is an easy 2-hour drive from Zagreb and offers a fantastic 2-for-1 experience. The Postojna Cave system is a breathtaking natural wonder that’s not just for adults; my son absolutely loved it. It’s kid-friendly and not scary, with a unique train ride that takes you deep into the cave, allowing you to witness its immense beauty up close.

Just a stone’s throw away, the Predjama Castle is perched in a dramatic cliffside cave, blending history with a dash of adventure. It’s a perfect combination of awe-inspiring natural scenery and intriguing historical exploration. This day trip is a hit for both nature lovers and history buffs, providing an unforgettable experience for the entire family.

• Caves In Slovenia You’ve Gotta See
• Best Castles In Slovenia

19. Zagreb To Ljubljana Day Trip

The capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana, is one of Europe’s greenest and most livable capital cities. You’ll unquestionably see why on your Zagreb day trip to Slovenia.

The beauty of the Balkan region is that it’s home to a wealth of historic cities, all located within an easy driving distance from each other. In fact , Zagreb lies only about 35 minutes from the Slovenian border, visiting Ljubljana a breeze.

The drive from Zagreb to Ljubljana doesn’t take longer than two hours (but in peak times of the year, border patrol can make that twice as long). Make sure to bring your passport !

In Ljubljana, indeed one of Europe’s best-kept urban secrets, you can stroll the entirely pedestrianized historic city center, visit Ljubljana Castle, and admire the gorgeous pastel-colored architecture.

An evening walk along the tree-lined Ljubljanica River is highly recommended as well. The city is small enough to be explored in just one day, the ideal city trip from Zagreb—if you can, you should try to spend at least a night there .

• How To Get From Zagreb To Ljubljana
• Where To Stay In Ljubljana

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Final Word On Best Day Tours From Zagreb

Whether you choose to navigate with your own car, hop on public buses, or opt for a private day trip, each type of day trip from Zagreb promises an authentic experience filled with discovery and delight.

From wandering through cobblestone streets in medieval towns to immersing yourself in the local culture, these fun day trips are not just journeys but a way to connect with the heart and soul of Croatia.

Remember, every trip offers its unique charm. Whether it’s the historical allure of medieval towns, the bustling activity in local markets, or the serene beauty of the Croatian countryside, there’s an adventure suitable for every traveler.

So, pack your spirit of exploration and set off on one or several of these amazing day trips from Zagreb to uncover the authentic experiences that await just a short distance away. 

When you’re ready to leave Zagreb, consider Dubrovnik. This guide will get you there.

• Ultimate Guide To Accommodation In Croatia
• Croatian Food You’ve Gotta Try
• Car Rental & Driving Tips In Croatia
• Dental Implant Vacation – Zagreb Is Where It’s At!
• Ferry Options In Croatia
• Island Hop Croatia – Best Croatian Islands To See
• Split Or Zagreb – Which To Visit
• How Many Days In Zagreb Is Enough
• Is Croatia Safe To Travel? Helpful Safety Tips

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Guide To Day Trips

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May 12, 2019

10 Best Day Trips From Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb’s location makes it one of the best cities in Europe to be in. The proximity of the city to the best spots in Croatia and the neighboring countries makes it an ideal base. So if you are looking for some things to do in and outside of this Croatian capital , here’s our list of the best day trips from Zagreb.

1. Plitvice Lakes

Plitvice Lakes is considered to be one of the most beautiful national parks in the world and also dubbed as one of the places to see before you die by big travel magazines. Known for its beautiful 16 terrace lakes and numerous falls, this UNESCO heritage site should top your list of things to do in Croatia during summer.

The turquoise lakes are interconnected to each other and divided into 3 stations. Surrounding the area is a massive expanse of forested hills which creates a very scenic view. It’s one of the best day trips from Zagreb as it’s only 2 hours away from the city. Making it an ideal day trip if you want to get away from the city for a bit. Or if you are on the way to the Dalmatian coast, is also an ideal stop before enjoying the Croatian beaches.

Admission Fee

Adults  60,00 (€8)

Adults –  groups 55,00 (€7.41)

Students*  50,00 (€7)

Students –  groups 45,00 ( €6)

Children 7 to 18 years 30,00 (€4)

Children 7 to 18 years –  groups 25,00 (€3.37)

Children up to 7 years and persons with disability (over 50%)** gratis gratis gratis gratis gratis gratis

How to get to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb

Take a bus from Zagreb main bus station to Plitvice Lakes for 2 hours. There are several bus operators that go to Plitvice Lakes. The trip frequency differs from operator to operator with some only leaving once, twice and up to 4 times a day so make sure to check the bus schedule.

The bus fare is between €11-16 for a one-way trip or €22-32 for a round-trip fare and the bus stops in front of the entrance of Plitvice.

To book, click here .

Plitvice Lakes Day Tours from Zagreb

Opening hours.

Winter :  wintertime calculation (from last Sunday in October) – summertime calculation (until last Saturday in March) 8.00 – 16.00 h (entering park/ticket purchase / exchanging vouchers for tickets – until 14.00 h)

Spring: summertime calculation (from last Sunday in March) – 31.05. 8.00 – 19.00 h (entering park/ticket purchase / exchanging vouchers for tickets – until 17.00 h)

Summer : 01.06. – 20.08. 7.00 – 20.00 h (entering park/ticket purchase / exchanging vouchers for tickets – until 18.00 h)

21.08. – 30.09.: 7.00 – 19.00 h (entering park/ticket purchase / exchanging vouchers for tickets – until 17.00 h)

01.10. – winter time calculation (until last Saturday in October): 8.00 – 18.00 h (entering park/ticket purchase / exchanging vouchers for tickets – until 16.00 h)

Contact Information

Address: Josipa Jovića 19  53231 Plitvice Lakes  Croatia

Phone: 385 (0) 53 751 014 

Email: [email protected]

Rastoke is the historic center of the Croatian town, Slunj. This beautiful village is known for its scenic location that’s straight from a postcard. The Slunjčica river flows to the local homes down to the river of Korana. This creates an amazing autochthonous ecologic and ethnographic significance because of natural harmony between nature and modern civilization.

The village is also likened to Plitvice because of the same way the river flows are layered and it’s often called the “little Plitvice”. The only difference is that instead of natural rocks and plants that create a branching on the rivers, it is the houses.

How to get to Rastoke from Zagreb

Take a bus from Zagreb to Slunj for almost 2 hours. There are several bus operators that go to Slunj. The trip frequency differs from operator to operator with some only leaving once, twice and up to 4 times a day so make sure to check the bus schedule.

The bus fare is between €5-14 for one-way trip or €10-28 for a round-trip fare then walk to Rastoke for about 11 minutes. The village is still almost 1 km from Slunj.

Or you can also take these day tours to Rastoke.

Rastoke day tours from Zagreb

For just €57 – it includes Rastoke, Plitvice and Homeland War Museum. To book, click here .

Plitvice Lakes & Rastoke Village Full Day Trip From Zagreb

For €140 – it includes Rastoke and Plitvice full day tour.  To book, click here.

Monday – Sunday from 9:00h – 21:00h

Tuesday – Closed

Address: Rastoke 25 b 47240, Slunj

Phone: + 385 47 801 460

Email: [email protected]

Pula is the largest city in Istria – the largest peninsula in Adriatic coast and a county that is split between Croatia, Slovenia, and Italy.

Because of its proximity to Italy, it is no surprise that the architecture is influenced by the Romans. Pula is also popular for its own version of the Colosseum – the Pula Arena which is said to be constructed between 27 BC to 68 AD.

A popular medieval city in Adriatic, a day trip from Zagreb to Pula is a must!

How to get to Pula from Zagreb

Take a bus from Zagreb to Pula for 4-5 hours depending on routes. There are several bus operators that go to Pula, Istria. The trip frequency differs from operator to operator with some only leaving once, twice and up to 5 times a day so make sure to check the bus schedule.

The bus fare is between €16-50 for one-way trip or €32-100 for a round-trip fare depending on the operator.

To book, click here.

Address: Carrara Street 3, 52100 Pula, Croati a

Phone: 052/351-300

Email: [email protected]  

4. Kumrovec

Kumrovec is a charming small village in the northern part of Croatia. It is known as the birthplace of Josip Broz Tito – former president of Yugoslavia and a popular statesman and communist from 1943 to his death in 1980.

However, people also visit in Kumrovec for the Museum ”Staro Selo”. This popular museum is known for showcasing the preserved homes of Zagorje villages, their way of life and culture.  The museum also offers a number of other interactive features for visitors – events and workshops, run by ethnologists experts in cooperation with the artisans of traditional crafts, tailored for different ages.

Admission Fee:

children, students, and pensioners – 15.00 kuna (€2) (groups of over 30 are entitled to a discount price of 12.00 kuna per person) (€2)

adults – 25.00 kuna (€3.37) (groups of over 30 are entitled to a discount price of 20.00 kuna per person)

family ticket – 55.00 kuna(€7.40) (parents with underage children)

ticket for Vila Kumrovec – 10.00 kuna(€1.35)

How to get to Kumrovec from Zagreb

You can take a bus from Zagreb to Kumrovec but the trip frequency is only 4 times a week through Presecki Grupa bus line. The trip takes about an hour and a half for €5-6 for a one-way trip or €10-12 for a round-trip fare.

If you can’t work around this schedule, you can also take a train from Zagreb to Harmica for 45 minutes and the train leaves every half hour. It costs €3-6 for one-way trip or €6-12 for a round-trip fare. Then from Harmica, take a taxi to Kumrovec for an estimated fare of €40-50 for one-way trip or €80-100 for a round-trip fare.

1 April through 30 September

Monday-Sunday: 9:00 – 19:00 (last entry into the Museum – 18:30)

1 November-last day of February

Monday-Sunday: 9:00 – 16:00 (last entry into the Museum – 15:30)

March and October

Monday-Sunday: 9:00 – 17:00 (last entry into the Museum – 16:30)

Address:  Josipa Broza 19 49295 Kumrovec 

Phone:   +385 (0)49 225 830

Email: [email protected]

5. Varaždin

Known for its baroque buildings, Varaždin is considered the “little Vienna” of Croatia. This town is located at about 81 km from Zagreb and it’s one of the most convenient day trips from the city.

Varaždin is also the tourist, cultural, educational and economic capital of northern Croatia. It is popular for its festivals, arts, and the popular baroque castle – the Varaždin Castle.

How to get to Varaždin from Zagreb

Take a bus from Zagreb to Varaždin for 1.5 hours. There are several bus operators that goes to Varaždin. The trip frequency differs from operator to operator with some only leaving once, twice and up to 5 times a day so make sure to check the bus schedule.

6. Ljubljana

Ljubljana is the capital city of Slovenia. At only 2.5 hours away, this is one of the best day trips from Zagreb.

The city is considered one of the underrated cities in Europe not having the glitz and glamour of Paris or the historical buildings of Rome. But it is charming on its own. The city is colorful, lively and quaint at the same time. So if you like a relaxing trip to Europe, then this day tour of Ljubljana is a must.

How to get to Ljubljana from Zagreb

Take a bus from Zagreb to Ljubljana for 2 hours and 30 minutes. There are several bus operators that go to Ljubljana. The trip frequency differs from operator to operator with some only leaving once, twice and up to 5 times a day but Flixbus has one that is every 2 hours.

The bus fare is between €6-16 for one-way trip or €12-32 for a round-trip fare.

7. Lake Bled

A postcard-perfect picture, Lake Bled is one of the most visited sites in Slovenia. The lake can be found in the Julian Alps of the Upper Carniolan region in Slovenia. Aside from its emerald green water, the lake is famous for its scenic setting where it is surrounded by mountains and forest and the Church of the Assumption. This Baroque church was built in the 17th century and it stands proudly in the middle of the lake – creating a scene that’s straight from a Disney movie.

How to get to Lake Bled   from Zagreb

Take a bus from Zagreb to Lake Bled for 3 hours and 20 minutes. There is only one bus operator that goes to Lake Bled – Croatia bus and there’s only one trip a day so plan accordingly. The bus fare is between €9-14 for one-way trip or €18-28 for a round-trip fare.

You can also take the train from Zagreb Glavni Kolod to Lesce-Bled (Croatian Railways: #EC 212, #EN 414, #EN 498) and trains leave 5 times a day. And the trip lasts for a little over 3 hours and it costs between €13-18 for one-way trip or €26-36 for a round-trip fare. Then from Lesce station, take a bus to Bled. It’s only for 9 minutes for €1-2 for a one-way trip or €2-4 for a round-trip fare and there are buses every 30 minutes. Through this route, the total transport is €28-40.

Zadar is a Croatian city located on the Dalmatian coast. Because of its strategic location, it is close to some of the best sites in the country.

The city is also the oldest inhabited city in Croatia and it’s home to Roman ruins, medieval churches, and a historic old town. It is also popular for its Sea Organ where when waves hit the organ located at the seafront, it creates harmonic sounds.

After World War II, Zadar was hit badly and an attempt to repair the damaged seafront of the city paved the way to a monotonous concrete wall. Nikola Basic created the sea organ to redesign the seafront of the city. Since 2005, the sea organ was opened to the public and became the top tourist destinations in Zadar.

How to get to Zadar from Zagreb

Take a bus from Zagreb to Zadar for 3 hours and 30 minutes. There are several bus operators that go to Zadar. The trip frequency differs from operator to operator with some only leaving once, twice and up to 5 times a day so plan accordingly.

The bus fare is between €12-40 for one-way trip or €24-80 for a round-trip fare depending on the operator.

9. Postojna

Postojna is one of the most captivating caves in the world. Located in the neighboring country of Slovenia, Postojna has magnificent rock and cave formations that you can’t find anywhere else. It is said to be 3 million years old. The cave has underground rivers, giant towers of stalagmites and stalactites and amazing landscape of limestones everywhere.

Postojna is also famous for its unusual fauna especially the “baby dragons” or olm – the aquatic salamander with translucent skin and no eyes.

Low season:

Adult- 25,80 €

Students (16 – 25 years)- 20,60 €

Children from 6 to 15 years- 15,50 €

Children up to 5 years -1,00 €

High season:

Adult- 27,90 €

Students (16 – 25 years)- 22,30 €

Children from 6 to 15 years-  16,70 €

How to get to Postojna from Zagreb

The most convenient way to get from Zagreb to Postojna is by bus due to more options and trip frequency.

Take a bus from Zagreb to Ljubljana for 2 hours and 30 minutes. There are several bus operators that go to Ljubljana. The trip frequency differs from operator to operator with some only leaving once, twice and up to 5 times a day but Flixbus has one that is every 2 hours.   The bus fare is between €6-16 for one-way trip or €12-32 for a round-trip fare.

Then from Ljubljana, take a train to Postojna. This takes another 1 hour for €6-9 for one-way trip or €12-18 for a round-trip fare. There are trains every hour. You can also take a bus but buses only leave every 4 hours. So it’s not a practical option. From Postojna station, you can either walk to the cave for about 20 minutes or take another bus that goes straight to the entrance of the cave. However, the bus is only 3 times a day. So this might not be an ideal option.

10. Veliki Tabor Castle

Veliki Tabor Castle is a castle museum in Zajorge region in Croatia side. The castle is located at the top of the mountain at 333 meters above sea level. This gives the castle an amazing view of Zajorge region extending to the Slovenian side.

The castle was built by a Hungarian noble family of Rattkay in the 15th century and they owned it until 1793. The castle is now owned by the state and it’s one of the top tourist destinations in this part of Croatia.

Aside from its secular architecture, Veliki Tabor also has some gothic influence with its central part looking like a pentagon castle. There are also four circle Renaissance towers connecting the central part of the castle. So if you want to witness the grandeur of this castle, this day trip from Zagreb is a must.

How to get to Veliki Tabor Castle from Zagreb

Take a bus (Presecki Grupa) from Zagreb to Veliki Tabor Castle for 1.5 hours.   The frequency of the trip is only 4 times a day so make sure to plan accordingly.

The bus fare is between €6-7 for one-way trip or €12-14 for a round-trip fare then walk to Veliki Tabor Castle for about 30 minutes. Or you can also take a taxi straight to the castle for €60-80 for a one-way trip or €120-160 for a round-trip fare.

January- March, November -December 9:30 am-3pm

April – 9:30 am- 4pm

May- June- 8:30-5pm

July-August- 8:30 am- 6pm

September – 8:30 am-5pm

October – 9am – 4pm

Address: Jamska cesta 30 6230 Postojna

Phone: +386 5 700 01 00 

Email: [email protected]

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6 Sensational Day Trips From Zagreb, Croatia

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The capital city of Zagreb, Croatia is the country’s most vibrant and buzzing city. Much different than the coastal cities of Dalmatia, Zagreb is a sprawling metropolis that features a mix of grand architecture, spacious squares, numerous parks and a steady flow of iconic Zagreb trams. Often underrated as a tourist destination in Croatia, we think there are many reasons to visit Zagreb. While the city itself offers an array of attractions, its location in the country’s interior provides ample opportunities for fabulous day trips from Zagreb as well!

Best Day Trips From Zagreb, Croatia

Our list of 6 day trips from Zagreb features nearby cities, castles, parks and waterfalls. For each of our featured Zagreb day trips, we include details of how to get there – as well as links to top-rated organized day tours from Zagreb.

Top Tip: Use our guide of Things To Do in Zagreb when planning your Zagreb itinerary.

#1 Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes Day Trip

Plitvice Lakes National Park is an absolute natural gem! Water flows through deep canyons in a series of tumbling waterfalls that pool into 16 lakes. Trails and wooden-planked paths weave around and over the water, giving visitors an up-close view of the natural phenomena and colorful scenery. A Plitvice Lakes tour is one of the most popular Croatia day trips – and, as such, a little pre-planning is necessary.

First, a good pair of walking shoes is necessary for your Plitvice Lakes day trip! The trails cover more than 5 miles…and once on the lakeside trails there are very few places to stop for a rest. As a nature park, visitors are also exposed to the elements – so make sure to bring sunscreen…and an umbrella, just in case!

Second, visiting Plitvice Lakes now requires pre-booking a ticket online at least two days in advance. Walk-up tickets will only be sold if there are available time slots remaining, which is unlikely in the height of summer. Because the tickets require date and time entry, arranging a Plitvice Lakes day trip from Zagreb on your own requires a little more planning and not much flexibility.

{Read more about Visiting Plitvice Lakes  and buy your ticket online with Viator .}

Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes Bus

Visitors can get from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes National Park via public transportation. There are numerous daily bus departures from the Zagreb bus station to the national park. The Zagreb-Plitvice distance is about 140km. The bus from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes (this will vary by route, number of stops and traffic). Bus tickets from Zagreb to Plitvice National Park can be purchased online or at the bus station.

Because park tickets now need to be purchased in advance , we highly recommend booking your bus tickets in advance as well. Furthermore, we recommend buying your return Plitvice Lakes to Zagreb bus ticket before your trip to ensure you don’t get stuck there! Note : There is no Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes Train. Visitors who want to use public transportation need to use the Zagreb to Plitvice bus.

How To Get to Plitvice Lakes From Zagreb via Car

People who would rather drive themselves than take the bus from Zagreb to Plitvice can do so by renting a car (check car rental prices here ).

Top Tip : If driving, consider stopping in the town of Rastoke – either on the way there or back. The charming little town sits at the confluence of the Korana and Slunjcica Rivers and features beautiful and historic watermills.

Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes Tour

Organized day trips from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes provide a hassle-free way to enjoy the lakes. Most Zagreb travel agencies offer a Plitvice tour from Zagreb, but we always recommend reading reviews before booking. One of the consistently top-rated tour we found on Viator is this day trip from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes that includes a stop in picturesque Rastoke! Read the Rave Reviews! 

Zagreb to Split Via Plitvice Lakes

Traveling from Zagreb to Split? Rather than taking a day trip to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb, visitors can also see the waterfalls in route to Split from Zagreb. We have stopped at the lakes twice while traversing between Zagreb and Split. On our winter visit to Plitvice , we spent two full days between stays in Split and Zagreb.

Years later, on an autumn visit to Croatia , rather than taking a Plitvice day trip from Zagreb, we took a late afternoon bus that arrived at the lakes by early evening. We spent the night at Plitvice and were the first ones to arrive at the park the next morning…allowing us some time to have the park nearly to ourselves.

On both of our trips, we used the public bus. However, visitors who plan to drive from Zagreb to Split can easily make a stop at Plitvice Lakes and continue on in one day. Without a car, guests who want to complete the journey in one day can book a Zagreb to Plitvice to Split tour. Get the details here!

#2 Zagreb to Ljubljana and Lake Bled, Slovenia

Stunningly beautiful, Slovenia is Croatia’s neighbor to the north. Visitors can cross the border on a trip from Zagreb to Slovenia – and as of January 2023 you don’t even need your passport! Highlights of day trips from Zagreb to Slovenia include two idyllic stops: Ljubljana and Lake Bled.

Ljubljana is the capital of Slovenia, which features a meandering river and hill-topping castle. The riverside is strewn with outdoor cafes and opulent architecture. Just 35 miles from Ljubljana is iconic Lake Bled. Surrounded by forested hills and soaring peaks, charming Lake Bled is absolutely breathtaking. A small island with a lone church sits in the center of Lake Bled, while the looming cliff-side Bled Castle completes the impressive scene.

Planning Day Trips From Zagreb to Slovenia

Visitors can easily plan their own Zagreb excursions to Ljubljana – several buses make the trip daily. However, a Zagreb to Lake Bled day trip requires a little more effort to make the trip in one day. We would recommend starting your day trip from Zagreb early in the morning, spending just 1 hour touring Ljubljana (use our tips for Ljubljana Sightseeing ) and then catching a bus on to Lake Bled (be sure to read our list of Things To Do in Lake Bled ). However, coordinating bus schedules could be problematic – and any delays could severely impact your day of sightseeing.

The best way to get from Zagreb to the top two Slovenia sights – Ljubljana and Lake Bled – is to take an organized Zagreb to Lake Bled and Ljubljana Tour. Find out more!

#3 Varazdin Day Trip from Zagreb

Just 50 miles north of Zagreb, near the Slovenian border, is the picture-perfect town of Varazdin. The city dates to the 12th century and, in the mid-1700s, Varazdin served as the capital of Croatia. The Varazdin Castle – a medieval defensive structure – is the top attraction. The historic center features pastel-painted baroque buildings, many churches and numerous relaxing squares.

Although the fortress takes center stage in the town, one of our favorite things to do in Varazdin is to explore the charming lanes and pretty squares. Zagreb day tours to Varazdin should include the following sights.

Varazdin Castle : The castle, called Stari Grad (Old Town), sits prominently on the northwestern corner of the historic center. Once surrounded by a moat, the fortress is now encircled with green grass and the building houses the city museum.

Varazdin Cathedral : The Cathedral of St. Mary to Heaven Ascended is a Baroque church that was built in the 17th century.

The Franciscan Church of St. John the Baptist: Built in 1650, the church is adorned in Baroque décor and has the tallest bell tower in Varazdin (54.5 meters).

Getting To Varazdin, Croatia

There are a few ways to get from Zagreb to Varazdin: train, bus, car or tour. It takes 3 hours to travel between the two cities by train and there are multiple departures daily. There are far fewer buses, but the trip by bus only takes 2 hours. If driving a car, the journey from Zagreb to Varazdin can be made in about an hour.

Varazdin and Trakoscan Castle Tours

Another option – that includes an additional stop at the famous Croatian Trakoscan Castle – is an organized tour. (There are no public transport routes to the Trakoscan Castle from Zagreb; so if you want to see the castle, it makes sense to combine it with another regional sight.) The small-group tour includes a guided walking tour of Varazdin (including the beautiful fortress and cemetery) and then continues to Trakoscan Castle just 25 miles away. See what other travelers say!

#4 Day Trip from Zagreb to Samobor

Tucked in the hills near the Slovenia border directly west of Zagreb is Samobor. Although the small town is just a 30-minute bus ride from Zagreb, it seems much further away. The expansive King Tomislav Square, is lined with cafes dishing out local delicacies and surrounded by historic buildings. The yellow painted church, St. Anastasia, sits prominently across from the square on a hill with a clock tower ringing out the time. The Gradna stream rambles through town, encouraging visitors to do the same.

The remains of the Old Town sit atop Tepec Hill – which is accessible via a short, but steep, climb. Just follow the Gradna Stream from the center of Samobor to the base of Tepec Hill and start the trek. The Old Town (Stari Grad) is a stone shell of what it once was. We wandered through the remains then returned to the Samobor via a path that featured The Stations of the Cross.

Other things to do on a day trip to Samobor: get a taste of local favorites, Bermet and Kremsnite. Bermet, a local wine aperitif, is a popular drink to enjoy on the main square. The locally famous Kremsnite is a vanilla custard cake (which is similar to the famous cake in Lake Bled ).

How To Get To Samobor

Being just 15 miles away, Samobor is an easy day trip from Zagreb via public bus. However, visitors who want a guided tour can take a half-day guided tour to the top Samobor sights. Find out more!

#5 Zagreb Day Trip to Krapina, Croatia

The town of Krapina is best known for the ancient Neanderthal remains discovered on the hillside. A state-of-the-art museum details the findings that prove humans lived in the area 130,000 years ago. The town of Krapina, however, is not only limited to the Neanderthal past. With vine-covered hills and rising church steeples, Krapina is a pleasant, off-the-beaten-path day trip from Zagreb. We spent almost a full day in Krapina, exploring the cute town, lovely churches and fascinating museum.

Krapina Neanderthal Museum

The sleek and modern Krapina Neanderthal Museum explains the 130,000-year-old findings of Neanderthals and the history of evolution. Outside the museum, a short path extends to the Krapina excavation site where the discoveries were made.

Krapina Churches

The three churches in town – St. Nicholas, St. Catherine’s and Our Lady of Jerusalem – sit proudly on the sloping hills, each with a bell tower that can be seen and heard throughout the valley. Of the three, St. Nicholas is the newest, St. Catherine’s features a beautiful Baroque interior and the Church of Our Lady of Jerusalem is simply stunning.

Church of Our Lady of Jerusalem

One of the churches on the Marian Pilgrimage, Our Lady of Jerusalem looks rather basic from the outside. However, inside, colorful paintings cover the ceiling and walls and a multitude of statues nearly overshadows the small gold statue of Mary enshrined behind the altar. The small statue was brought from Jerusalem and is said to have miraculous powers. Entry is by appointment only , so inquire before your Krapina day trip from Zagreb! 

Getting To Krapina

Krapina can be reached by the local (and slow but delightful) train from Zagreb. Most trains take about 2 hours and include a transfer. Find timetables at the Zagreb Train Station.

Visitors who want to combine a trip to the Neanderthal Museum and Trakoscan Castle can book an efficient tour that visits both! Learn more here!

#6 Istria Day Tour from Zagreb

Istria is one of the most beautiful regions of Croatia! Because of the close distance and numerous sights to see in Istria, either self-driving or joining one of the Istria day tours from Zagreb is the best way to see the region. On a highly-rated 10-hour Zagreb Tour, participants get to see three of the best Istria destinations: Pula, Porec and – our personal favorite – Rovinj .

In the ancient city of Pula , which is 3 hours from Zagreb, visitors get to tour a well-preserved Roman amphitheater that was once used in Gladiator battles. Just 45 minutes north is pretty-as-a-picture Rovinj. The fishing village boasts narrow cobblestoned lanes and a hill-topping church that overlooks the Adriatic Sea.

Another 45 minutes to the north is Porec, home to the famous UNESCO-listed Euphrasian Basilica. Read more about the highlights of touring Istria and then read the reviews for of a highly recommended Istria Tour! 

Getting To Other Top Destinations in Croatia

Because Zagreb is located in northern Croatia, day trips to popular southern coastal destinations are not ideal. The long distances to top destinations, however, are connected by coach bus. Travelers renting a car can connect the country’s main cities on a Croatia Road Trip .

Zagreb to Split

The distance is too far to consider visiting Split on a day tour from Zagreb. It takes 5+ hours on the Zagreb-Split bus and 4+ hours by car.

Zagreb to Dubrovnik

The distance between Zagreb and Dubrovnik is 600km (375 miles), which would take more than 6 hours by car and about 10 hours by bus. Instead, we would recommend flying between the two cities if traveling directly from one to the other.

Zagreb Tours

Some of the best Zagreb tours are tours in Zagreb! The following tours offering interesting and unique ways to explore Zagreb.

Zagreb Walking Tour

The top Zagreb attractions are located in the heart of the city. Let a guide a lead the way to the best sights, while giving insight to the city and country. Join a highly-rated private Zagreb city tour ( read reviews ) – or join a group tour and meet fellow travelers ( get the specifics )!

Would you rather tour Zagreb on your own? Use our free self-guided Walking Tour Of Zagreb ! 

Zagreb Highlights Biking Tour

Hop on two wheels and pedal alongside a guide to Zagreb historic spots and hidden gems. Explore beyond the city center and feel the vibe of the city. Reserve your spot! 

Taste of Zagreb Food Tour

One of our favorite things about Croatia is the food! Sample the local cuisine on a food tour through the city that begins at the local green market and makes stops at numerous restaurants. See what other travelers said!

Hop On Hop Off Tour

Hop On Hop Off tours can be a great way to get acquainted with a city at your own pace! Ride the bus for panoramic views and disembark at sights that interest you most…then hop back on to your next desired destination. Get the details!

What You Need For Your Trip to Zagreb, Croatia

Whether taking one of the top-rated day trips from Zagreb or joining a Zagreb city tour , you will want to be prepared! Make sure you have the following, so that you can make the most of your trip to Croatia!

Walking Shoes

All of our recommended Zagreb tours require walking (or cycling). Wear a good pair of travel walking shoes so that you don’t fall behind the group! I like exploring in lightweight shoes by Columbia – and Kris likes wearing Merrell Shoes .

Sunscreen and Hat…Raincoat and Umbrella

The sun is intense in Croatia! Be sure to bring sunscreen and a wide-brimmed travel hat along with you. We also recommend packing a light raincoat and travel umbrella …just in case.

Travel Camera for Croatia

If you are anything like us, you want a great travel camera for snapping tons of pictures on your tour! We use a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens, which takes incredible photos. However, it can be a bit heavy. When we are city sightseeing, we often carry a lightweight Canon Elph that can fit inside a pocket…and still produces quality photos.

Zagreb Guidebook, Map & Day Pack

Whether you are planning DIY day trips or joining tours, it’s always a good idea to have a comprehensive Croatia guidebook and map . You will also want a functionable day bag to organize and secure all of your essential everyday travel items !

Croatia Travel Insurance

Travel insurance may help if you would get injured on a day trip from Zagreb. Learn more about coverage and rates at World Nomads .

Pro Tip:  Get (and stay) organized for your Vacation to Croatia by using our Trip Planning Printables !

Looking for more ideas of what to do in Zagreb? Check out our list of 22 Terrific Things To in Zagreb ! 

Start planning your trip to Croatia ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides page !

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board .

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Day Trips from Zagreb

If you’re wanting to stray a little further from the city rather than staying within its confines (see our Day Trips in Zagreb page for city excursions), here are some options for day trips from Zagreb for you to consider.

Day Trips from Zagreb – Samobor

Samobor is an excellent place for a day trip from Zagreb as it’s a pretty, tranquil little town – a great place to visit in its own right – and is only just over 20km west of the capital. It’s best to travel to Samobor by bus; buses depart Zagreb Bus Terminal every half an hour and the journey itself is also only half an hour.

Once in Samobor, head to the town’s delightful main square – Trg kralja Tomislava  – for a pleasant walk around the area, and to then enjoy its cafes and restaurants.

Samobor is also famous for the “ samoborska kremsnita “, a custard cake. Although kremsnita can be found in many other places in Croatia, the Samobor version is supposed to be the best in the whole country. If you go to Samobor, you absolutely, positively must try a slice!

Other sights inlcude the churches of St Anastasia (sv. Anastazija) and St Anne (sv. Ana); the City Museum and the  Marton Museum (the first private museum in Croatia); and Stari Grad castle in the west of the town.

• More information from the Samobor Tourist Office

Day Trips from Zagreb – Varazdin

Varazdin is a town that’s greatly overlooked by many travellers to Croatia, which is a great shame. However, as it’s located about 90km northeast of Zagreb and near both the Slovenian and Hungarian borders, it is somewhat understandable that it may be out of the way of many visitors to Croatia. Nevertheless, if you’re considering a trip from Zagreb (or find yourself in that part of the country) Varazdin is definitely worth a visit.

Once upon a time the capital of Croatia (in the 18th century), Varazdin is a very well-preserved Baroque town. The best tip for sightseeing is to head to the centre of Varazdin, and to the main square of Trg kralja Tomislava (as in Samobor – see above!) for sights including the town hall , Draskovic Palace and the nearby cathedral , built in 1647. North of the main square is the Stari Grad fortress , which is also home to the City Museum .

Varazdin is also home to Spancirfest , one of the largest open-air festivals in Croatia that takes place over 10 days every August. There’s a mix of music (of different styles), theatre performances, art workshops, street performers and more.

The best way to reach Varazdin is by bus. Again, there are numerous daily buses there and back with a journey time of between 1 hour 20 minutes and 1 hour 45 minutes, depending on which bus you take. See the Zagreb Bus Terminal website .

You can also use one of several trains that run each day. However, as these take longer than the bus (2-3 hours), train is not really advised as a method of transport. Nevertheless, see the Croatian Railways website for timetable details.

• More at the Varazdin Tourist Office website

Day Trips from Zagreb – Salajland

This one is only for Christmas! Salajland is an amazing Christmas light display set on a privately-run property just over one hour southeast of Zagreb. Featuring thousands of lights decorating the grounds of the property, owned by the Salaj Family, this is well worth a visit in December each year. (It is actually open from late November to early January.)

The best way to get to Salajland from Zagreb is to drive, but you could also take a bus to the nearest large town, Cazma, and then take a taxi from there.

Day Trips from Zagreb – Ljubljana and Slovenia

Slovenia’s capital city is absolutely possible to visit from Zagreb – the journey time by train or bus (or driving) is around 2 hours each way. Ljubljana is a very enjoyable city to visit, and you can cram in a number of its most famous sights in a day. In fact, we’ve written a whole guide to it! Take a look at Day Trip to Ljubljana from Zagreb .

Day Trips to the Coast

If you’re wondering whether or not you’d be able to make day trips from Zagreb to the coast, the answer is “technically yes, but…”.

The nearest point of the coast from Zagreb is Rijeka . The bus journey (most of which is on a motorway) to there only takes about 2 and a half hours. There are numerous daily buses both there and back; this means that you’d definitely be able to make the whole trip in a day. However, Rijeka is a busy port city and although there are a number of great sightseeing opportunities and lovely restaurants and cafes, if your ultimate aim is to hit the beach and have a cool dip in the sea, you’ll be disappointed.

Around Rijeka, other possibilities include Opatija , Crikvenica , and Novi Vinodolski as well as the island of Krk . Whether they’re worth visiting on just a day trip is up to you! (We would really advise at least a one-night stay, but preferably far longer.)

The first step would be to visit the Zagreb Bus Terminal website and start planning your bus journey to see whether your destination is doable in a day. You’ll find that you can reach some of the above places directly from Zagreb. However, you’ll also have more options if you travel to Rijeka first and then change buses here.

Other Options

Croatia is famed for its wine (really!) but you may think most places to sample wine are located somewhere on the coast or perhaps in Slavonia, another region well-known for wine. Take a look at the Zagreb County Wine Roads website for details of establishments you can visit in and around the towns of Samobor, Jastrebasko and Sveti Ivan Zelina to enjoy a tipple or two in this part of Croatia.

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ZAGREB DAY TOURS – BEST DAY TOURS FROM ZAGREB

SLOVENIA DAY TOUR

Best Day tour from Zagreb to Slovenia’s best highlights Lake Bled, Postojna cave and capital Ljubljana.

PLITVICE LAKES TOUR

National park Plitvice lakes astonish every visitor. Plitvice tour is most popular tour from Zagreb and also include natural beauties such as…

ISTRIA TOUR

Book the Istria tour from Zagreb and check it out why CNN’s columnist wrote “No, Istria is not the new Tuscany , It’s the old Tuscany.”

LJUBLJANA, POSTOJNA CAVE & PREDJAMA CASTLE TOUR

Breathtaking Postojna and Predjama castle & charming capital Ljubljana Day Trip.

ZAGREB – DUBROVNIK TOUR

Our tour from Zagreb to Dubrovnik is highlights tour of Croatia. Along with Zagreb, Plitvice and Dubrovnik, you can see Trogir, Zadar, Å ibenik, Istria, …

CROATIA WINE TOUR

Wine tour from Zagreb offer few wine regions around Zagreb such us Žuberak, Podunavlje, Slavonija, Moslavina, Prigorje-Bilogora, Zagorje-Međimurje, Pleševica, Pokuplje.

ZAGREB SIGHTSEEING TOUR

Zagreb sightseeing tour by locals shows you all the most important locations in Zagreb. A part of our tour will be by car and a part we will explore on foot. A local tour will show you the Zagreb way of life.

ZAGREB PRIVATE TOURS

All of our Zagreb private tours can be customized according your requirements. Just tell us our preferences and our experienced travel staff will help you with finding best itinerary for you.

ZAGREB TRANSFERS

With our partners we offer professional airport transfer services at reasonable prices …

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT

Which attractions are recommended to visit around zagreb.

Most popular attractions near Zagreb are:

• Plitvice Lakes National Park
• Slovenia with Lake Bled and Postojna cave
• Istrian peninsula with Pula, Poreč and Rovinj cities
• Varaždin and Trakošćan castles
• Samobor city and Plesivica wine road

What are the best tours in Zagreb?

TOP 5 – The best tours in Zagreb are:

• PLITVICE Lakes and Rastoke Private Tour from Zagreb – Guaranteed Departure
• SLOVENIA day tour (LJUBLJANA, BLED Lake, POSTOJNA cave) day tour from Zagreb
• ISTRIA Private Day Tour from Zagreb
• CROATIA CASTLES day tour from Zagreb
• Zagreb WINE tour

One Day in Zagreb Itinerary – How to Spend a Perfect Day in Zagreb, Croatia

Even though it’s the capital of the country, Zagreb is often missed by tourists in Croatia who mostly choose coastal destinations during the summertime. It’s true that Zagreb is nothing like Dubrovnik or Split, but it’s still a Central European city that really has much to offer. Whether it’s the mix of Austro-Hungarian and socialist architecture, many unique museums and galleries, beautiful parks and lots of restaurants and clubs to choose from – you will always have plenty of options. In the winter, it hosts one of the greatest Christmas markets in Europe, so it makes for a great winter destination, as well. This city shouldn’t be missed on any Central European trip, even if you only have one day to spend there!

What’s the best time to visit Zagreb?

There are a few seasons that make this city a really great place to visit. The first one is  late spring  when the temperature gets around 20 degrees C and the numerous city parks make Zagreb look lush, fresh and green. It’s the time of the year when you can enjoy many outdoor activities or simply enjoy some coffee in the sun. The second season that’s kind of special is the Christmas time . Zagreb’s  Christmas market, Advent, is getting bigger and more exciting each year, and it has already been named one of the best in Europe.

One Day in Zagreb Itinerary

Follow this guide and make the most of your trip even if you’re short on time. These are the top sights and things to do during your one day in Zagreb.

Start your day at Trg bana Josipa Jelacica

The main city square – Trg bana Josipa Jelacica – placed just below the Old City is the best place to start your one day in Zagreb. It’s very well connected by public transport to all other city areas, so it is easily reachable no matter where you’re staying. Most of the tours start right here and if you are looking for the perfect one, be sure to take this one .

Check out the Ban Josip Jelačić statue as well as the fountain. While on the square, you can climb up the Observation Deck ‘Zagreb Eye’ and enjoy the greatest panoramic view of the city and a cup of morning coffee.

Visit the Croatian National Theatre

Very close to the main city square, about a 12-minute walk southwest from it is the building belonging to the Croatian National Theatre. A very impressive piece of architecture, it was built in 1895 by Ferdinand Fellner, an architect from Vienna, and represents a masterpiece of the neo-baroque period. In front of it stands the Well of Life (Zdenac života in Croatian), a sculpture by Ivan Meštrović, probably the most famous Croatian sculptor. Combine all that with generally very pleasant surroundings full of flowers and greenery and benches where you can take a breather, and you get a place very much worthy of your time.

Stroll through Ilica street and visit some of the many shops along

Ilica street is actually one of the longest streets in Croatia and it doesn’t make sense to walk the whole street if you have only one day in Zagreb. Still, it’s a great place to do some shopping, have some breakfast or simply watch the city’s busy atmosphere. Oranž Bistro & wine bar is a great place to have some amazing healthy breakfast, but they also serve some delicious cakes if you want to sweeten your tooth.

Visit the Antiques and Flea Market on the Britanac Square

On weekends, this tiny square next to the Ilica street hosts the Antiques and Flea Market . The vendors are usually locals who sell both valuable antique items as well as some cheap vintage accessories, books, clothes or pottery. You can find some pretty unique stuff, but don’t forget to bargain!

Visit the Museum of Illusions

The exciting Museum of Illusions , just around the corner from Britanac Square, is a great place for both children and all those adults who enjoy any kind of illusion. There are several rooms around the museum that have some sort of spatial illusion that can easily trick your brain. It’s quite a fun museum to explore and one of very few that get even more exciting with the camera, so don’t forget to bring your phone.

Take the Funicular Railway to the Upper Town

Take the Funicular Railway from Tomićeva ulica all the way up to the Upper Town. It is the city’s oldest part covered in narrow streets with many famous sights and attractions. Just after you exit the funicular, you’ll be facing the  Lotrscak Tower  where every day at noon a cannon is fired to commemorate Zagreb’s victory over the Turks.

Museum of Broken Relationships

Another original museum, the Museum of Broken Relationships , displays the collection of different things that keep the memory of failed relationships and the stories behind those relationships. It’s touchy and funny at the same time and more exciting than most of drama movies nowadays.

Visit the Dolac market and the Cathedral

Placed around the Upper town, the two great places to continue your day in Zagreb are the Cathedral and the Dolac market . Dolac is a great place to buy some fresh fruits, nice flowers and many Croatian products and souvenirs.

Take a lunch break at Tkalciceva street

The best place to relax, enjoy some drinks and delicious food is Tkalciceva street . There are numerous restaurants, bars and pubs to choose from. If you’re a beer lover who wants to have some basic meat or pizza dish, check out Mali Medo beerhouse . For a nice coffee and dessert place check out Cookie Factory . If you’re into some great Asian food street food– don’t miss Umami.

Try štrukli, a traditional local dish

Since you’re in Zagreb, you absolutely must try the so-called štrukli, a local delicacy and a dish that is almost synonymous with Zagreb when it comes to food. Štrukli are actually pieces of very thin dough, traditionally filled with cheese and cream, but La Štruk , a restaurant near Tkalčićeva street offers all kinds of toppings and fillings, so you can mix and match everything from pesto to blueberries. The place is in Skalinska street, so do check it out.

Relax at the Zrinjevac park

The lovely  Zrinjevac park in the very center of the city is where people come to relax from an exhausting day, especially during the warmer months when it becomes a perfect green oasis in the middle of the city. During Christmas time, it’s where the most iconic part of the Christmas market is held. The whole park gets covered in lights that create a super romantic winter atmosphere.

It’s time for a night out

If you’re still into partying after this quite exhausting day, the good news is that in Zagreb there are lots of clubs to choose from. Tesla in Varšavska is a nice place to get things started, but  Katran also offers a great night out and 4 dance floors inside one club, and it’s not that far from the main square. Opera Club is also in the city centre, often with some great guests.

Where to stay in Zagreb?

Esplanade Zagreb Hotel

Mihanovićeva 1, Lower Town

The Esplanade Zagreb Hotel is an exquisite 5-star hotel in the very city center. This lovely vintage hotel was built in 1925 in Art Deco style and was beautifully restored in 2004. The rooms are very classy and present a delicate combination of vintage and contemporary.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Hotel Dubrovnik

Ljudevita Gaja 1, Lower Town

Hotel Dubrovnik is located right next to Ban Jelačić Square, so booking a room here means being right at the very heart of the city. Although open in 1929, this is a modern hotel with absolutely everything you need for a very comfortable stay.

Hotel International

Miramarska 24, Zagreb

Just outside the city center, but still well within the walking distance, Hotel International is a modern large hotel with extremely comfortable rooms and great food. It has its own sauna, fitness center and several conference rooms.

Swanky Mint Hostel

Ilica 50, Lower Town, Zagreb

The Swanky Mint is a hostel placed in a renovated textile-dye and dry cleaning factory that dates back to the late 19th century. Its unique appearance is a combination of industrial machinery, modern design and technology and an eco-friendly sustainable environment.

Day trips from Zagreb

Ok, so now you have explored Croatia’s capital. Would you like to see more of this lovely country? If so, day trips from Zagreb are in order. Great destinations abound and you simply can’t go wrong.

Plitvice Lakes

Without doubt, Plitvice Lakes are Croatia’s most famous national park. 16 incredible and unique lakes form a mesmerizing chain of natural wonders, each completely different from the other. In fact, this place is so incredible that UNESCO put it on its World Heritage list way back in 1979. Around the national park you will find plenty of quaint and charming villages which offer some great food and are therefore an excellent place to have lunch. Incredible nature, great food and a day out in the sun. What more could you ask for?

Only about two hours away from Zagreb is Ljubljana, another capital city. So, why not hop over to Slovenia and see what they have to offer? You’ll see quite a lot, especially when it comes to interesting high-quality architecture , but there are also some tasty dishes to try. Near Ljubljana is the resort of Bled , a beautiful lake that hides Slovenia’s only island. Hop on a boat to get to it and visit the local castle for some truly spectacular views of the area. A great way to visit a new country.

Varaždin is a beautiful little city on the northern edge of Croatia. Known also as Baroque City, Varaždin was even Croatia’s capital in the second half of the 18th century, but a terrible fire in 1776 caused it to lose that status. Today, the place is brimming with culture, and its graveyard is considered to be one of the most beautiful in Europe. Last but not least, you absolutely must set some time aside for a visit to Trakošćan Castle which also serves as a fascinating museum these days.

Extra tips for visiting Zagreb

– Should any kind of accident befall you, having travel insurance can be an absolute lifesaver. And when it comes to travel insurance, World Nomads are the best of the best. They themselves are a group of travelers, so they know very well how important it is to react quickly in this kind of situations. They also have a team versed in several different languages standing by every second of the day ready to react and help you get the help you need. With World Nomads , you are always in great hands.

– Public transportation  is pretty cheap and very efficient. However, Uber and Cammeo Taxi offer super cheap prices and it’s recommended to use them whenever you need fast and cheap transport.

– Euro is not a viable currency in Croatia. You will have to visit an exchange office when you arrive.

– T ips are not a part of your price here when you eat or drink out. Still, a 10% tip is fairly standard.

Pin for later!

If you have any other propositions for this One Day in Zagreb Itinerary feel free to share it in the comments below!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Related posts:

Anca is a travel writer and the founder of One Day Itinerary - the biggest collection of travel itineraries for those who are time-limited or just want to maximize their time while traveling. Although she easily becomes homesick for Croatia, she thinks travel is essential to her happiness. She has traveled to more countries than she is years old and doesn’t plan on changing that fact. In her travel guides she aims to inspire people to travel whenever they have a spare day (or two).

Thanks for the information. Just one comment, sangrias and tapas are from Spain. In Mexico we drink tequila and tacos 🙂

Thanks for sharing that! I have 8 hours in Zagreb and this really helped plan my route!

It is an informative article, but also would like to add a few things, instead of eating Mexican food in Croatia, maybe tourist would try some traditional food, like Strukli 🙂 I would like to share with you my experience of Zagreb: https://www.momthemuse.com/zagreb/

Thanks for the comment! We will add that as well 🙂

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One day in Zagreb: A Travel Guide for the best day

This article may contain affiliate/compensated links. For full information, please see our disclaimer  here .

Table of Contents

You should spend at least one day in Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia in your Croatia itinerary. After I had one full day in Croatia during our 8 day trip there I’m convinced that Zagreb is a city that shouldn’t be missed. 

Zagreb, the largest city in Croatia, there’s plenty to do, see and eat! Let’s dive in on the details of a one-day Zagreb itinerary and how you can visit Zagreb in 1 day!

About Zagreb

Zagreb, Croatia is located in the northwestern part of the country more inland than some of the popular coastal cities many people flock to in the summer months. The center of the capital city, is separated into two distinct areas: Upper Town and Lower Town. 

Walking through Zagreb, you’ll notice the beautiful Gothic and neo-renaissance styles of architecture. It slightly reminded me of Amsterdam. I was surprised by the gorgeous structures throughout the city, but architecture in Europe no matter where you are is usually stunning. (Just my opinion anyway!)

Let’s get into some of the main things to do when you have 24 hours or 1 day in Zagreb, Croatia.

Things to do: Zagreb one day itinerary

Zagreb walking tour.

A great way to get your bearings of a new city as well as hear more about recent events and history is by going on a walking tour. There are many different walking tours that are offered in Zagreb. It’s a great way to explore the top sights!

Trg bana Josipa Jelačića Square

This is where Lowertown and Upper Town meet. The central main square of the city of Zagreb. It is a gorgeous square located in the city center flanked by many restaurants and stores it is a commercial hub of the city.

You will recognize it by the large bronze equestrian statue in the center of the square that is after the namesake of the square, Croatian war hero Josip Jelacic.

The formal name of this square is Trg bana Josipa Jelacica Square but it is otherwise referred to as Ban Jelacic or Jelacic Square.

Zagreb Funicular 

This is located on Tomiceva Street and is open from 6:30 AM until 10 PM. You must have cash for this fare, they do not take credit! The funicular goes up to the Lotrscak Tower which is noted below. (You can see the tower in the picture below.)

Tunel Grič – Radićeva

Tunnel Gric is a pedestrian tunnel located in the center of Zagreb. It dates back to World War II and was built in 1943 serving as a means of transportation as well as a bomb shelter. It is 350 meters (just under 1,200 feet) long and about 5 and a half meters (~18 feet) wide. The tunnel connects Mesnička and Stjepan Radić Streets. 

Lotrscak Tower 

At the top of the Zagreb Funicular is the Lotrscak Tower that houses the Gric cannon. Every day at noon, the cannon at the top of the tower shoots off. If you’re planning to be there for that, its best to arrive early. There are many walking tours and tour groups that time their days around this occasion.

Oldest Remaining Well

The oldest remaining well in Zagreb is located at Demetrova 11. Or in Croatian street is Ulica. So it’s Ulica Demetrova 11. In this part of Zagreb (Upper Town), there are many residences with historic courtyards . 

Visoka Street

This street is mysteriously the only dead-end street located in Upper Town. Villa Pongratz is located on this quiet street. There are urban legends that this villa is haunted. 

St. Mark’s Church & St. Marks Square

One of the most recognizable structures in Zagreb is St. Mark’s Church & St. Mark’s Square located in Upper Town. It is one of the oldest architectural structures in Zagreb, Croatia dating back to the 13th century. It’s most recognizable by the colorful tiled roof. (It is near the next item on your one day itinerary of Stone Gate.)

You can enter Upper Town through the historic stone gate. This is close to St. Marks’s church and square where you can walk through the Stone Gate where the shrine to the Virgin Mary is. 

You can access from Jelačić Square by heading north through Radićeva Street. Or, you could ride the funicular and then as you’re leaving Upper Town pass through the stone gate. 

Tkalčićeva Street

This street is flanked with many restaurants and bars. It is a very vibrant street in Zagreb. At the beginning of the street, there is an old sundial. This area is one of the top locations in Zagreb for locals to meet up and have a coffee or a beer together.

This street holds a lot of history as well. At one time it was a stream separating the two oldest Zagreb settlements. Then from 1899 to 1941, almost every house on the street was a brothel. Because of the location of the street in the center of the city, the windows were required to be opaque and there were red lanterns on the exterior. Zagreb was the first ever European city to have a proper red-light district.

Dolac Market

The Dolac market is located close to the Zagreb cathedral. Most of the items in the market include fresh fruits and vegetables that are sold by locals to locals. Once most of the inventory starts to sell out later in the afternoon the market winds down. If you want to visit the market in full swing, it’s best to go earlier in the morning.

Mirogoj Cemetery

A quick Uber ride or short tram journey from the city center, the Mirogoj Cemetery is a beautiful tree-lined cemetery with gorgeous memorials. Filled with sculptures and arcades it’s absolutely stunning. Free to visit, don’t let the short transit deter you. It’s a great stop to include in your one-day Zagreb itinerary. 

Zagreb has many different museums throughout the city and is commonly referred to as the city of museums. If you only have one day, you may not have the time, however, if you’re spending two or more days in Zagreb you definitely will have to check out a museum. Add one of these museums into your 2 day Zagreb itinerary!

Some museums in Zagreb include the Museum of broken relationships, the Zagreb city museum, the Archaeological Museum and so many more!

Getting around Zagreb

You might be wondering how to get around Zagreb. Zagreb is really easy to get around. You can easily walk to many of the things you will want to see. However, Uber is available in Zagreb as well. When getting into the Zagreb airport, there were many taxis waiting but we ordered an Uber to our hotel. There is also a tram system that is available in the city. (One of the tram lines goes right by the main square.)

Where to eat in Zagreb

Zagreb has many different cuisines available. During our one day in Zagreb, we ate an early lunch at one of the Medvedgrad brew pubs to fuel our adventures. 

Then later in the evening, we ate at a Croatian restaurant Didov San which specializes in homemade Croatian cuisine. On the patio, we sat where the tables were made out of antique sewing machines adding to its charm.

Beer in Zagreb

Opatovina Street in Zagreb is known as the beer bar street. Several of the pubs on this street cater to craft beer selections. Tolkeins House was recently permanently closed per the locals we talked to. However, we were able to visit Kvazar and Craft Room . Craft Room stated it opened at 2 PM but it didn’t appear to actually open until later. 

Medvedgrad is one of the oldest craft breweries (or in Croatian pivovara) in Croatia as it was established in 1994. There are several brewpubs that serve beer and food in Zagreb. The one I visited was located on Tkalciceva Street ( Pub Mali Medo ). Sitting outside it was a great location to have a brew, some food, and people-watch.

Zagreb Day Trips

If you have more than one day of basing yourself in Zagreb, spend one day exploring Zagreb then take a day trip from Zagreb. You can easily dedicate one day trip from Zagreb if you’re basing yourself there for 2 or more days.

You can visit several places as a day trip while basing yourself out of Zagreb. The most popular of them is the stunning Plitvice Lakes National Park . 

Other ideas for day trips from Zagreb, Croatia include the Istria area of the country known for coastal towns dotted along the peninsula. There are many wineries here as well, making it a great place to spend some time and tour some local wineries.

You are even in close proximity to Slovenia. From Zagreb, you can take a day trip to the popular areas in Slovenia of Ljubljana and Lake Bled, Slovenia.

Where to stay in Zagreb

Zagreb is very walkable. But, having an accommodation either close to most of the attractions you’re planning on visiting or a tram stop is the best strategy in deciding where to stay. We stayed at the Canopy by Hilton Zagreb City Center . It was a great location with a small Studenac grocery store across the street, bikes available from the hotel, and an onsite bar and restaurant. The room was larger than most standard European rooms so it was really comfortable.

One of the most iconic hotels in Zagreb is the Esplanade Zagreb Hotel . An older hotel with a lot of charm. With gorgeous marble details, including expansive bathrooms if you truly want to relax after exploring Zagreb, it’s a great option. 

For more hotels in Zagreb, I use booking.com to make most of my reservations. Check out some of the places to stay in Zagreb below!

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

Is one day in zagreb enough.

One day in Zagreb is enough. In one day you will have the time to see many of the main sights and even experience Croatian cuisine and local beer. If you wish to visit one or more museums, you will need more than one day in the capital city of Zagreb, Croatia. 

Is Zagreb safe at night?

Yes, Zagreb in general is a very safe city. At night, you will want to remain more vigilant. But, you likely will not encounter any issues in safety even walking about the city later at night. The city is illuminated by many historic gas lamps that date back to 1863. 

How many days in Zagreb is enough?

One full day in Zagreb is enough to see all of the major sights of the city. If you want to linger a bit longer and soak in some history in a museum 2-3 days would be a good amount of time to spend in the capital city of Zagreb.

What do to in Zagreb in 2 days?

In two days, be sure to spend time in the Trg bana Josipa Jelačića Square, ride the funicular, see the cannon shot at noon in the Lotrscak tower, walk through the Stone Gate, visit St. Mark’s church, Walk down Tkalciceva Street, check out some craft beers on Opotovina street and spend some time in one of Zagreb’s museums.

Is Zagreb dangerous?

No, Zagreb isn’t a dangerous city. There is very little crime here especially violent crime. Overall Zagreb and most of the country of Croatia is a very safe place to visit. Be sure to exercise caution by securing your valuables as a precautionary measure. But overall, it’s a very safe place to visit.

Is Zagreb safe?

Zagreb (and the rest of Croatia) is very safe. The crime rate is really low. In comparison to other cities within Europe, Zagreb is a generally safe city where violent crime is extremely rare. Zagreb is revered as a family-oriented city with families living here and most tourists who visit are interested in Croatian history and culture.

Is Zagreb expensive?

Compared to the rest of Croatia, Zagreb was more reasonably priced in eating out at restaurants, buying food and snacks at the grocery store, and just general pricing. Croatia is a cheaper European destination compared to some countries and cities such as London or Paris. The highest prices you will encounter in Croatia will be in Dubrovnik .

Is it worth visiting Zagreb, Croatia?

Yes! The capital city of Zagreb isn’t always the first location in Croatia most travelers include on their itineraries but it definitely deserves at least one if not two days during your time exploring Croatia. Zagreb is a great city that you could either start or end your Croatia travels in.

What should one do for fun in Zagreb?

There are so many fun things to do in Zagreb! With the number of museums, spending some time in a museum that interests you is always a great way to spend a day. Aside from museums Zagreb has many historic sites, local cuisine, and great local craft beer breweries to grab a pint. 

Which city should one start exploring in Croatia: Dubrovnik or Zagreb?

Either Zagreb or Dubrovnik makes the most sense as either your first or last stop in Croatia. During our Croatia itinerary, we started in Zagreb then eventually made our way down to Dubrovnik as our final stop and went home from there. You could also do it in reverse order as Dubrovnik first and Zagreb last.

What is Zagreb Croatia known for?

Museums. This city has a high concentration of interesting museums to visit with over 30! Not only that but the capital city of Croatia has a very diverse economy as well as a high standard of living making it a really attractive place for Croatians and tourists alike. 

Is there Uber in Zagreb?

Yes! There is Uber in Zagreb. Using Uber throughout the capital city of Zagreb is a convenient way to get around. From the airport to your hotel or even if you’re visiting an attraction that is a further walk than you prefer. Have your app ready and up to date in order to use Uber in Zagreb, Croatia.

Is Zagreb a beautiful city?

Zagreb is a beautiful city with historic landmarks as well as modern amenities. The architecture is a blend of old and new with classic European squares and markets as well as more modern buildings. It has so much to do from historic churches to local Croatian cuisine, and even craft beer!

Do you need a car in Zagreb?

No, you don’t necessarily need a car while you’re in Zagreb proper. Depending on where you stay most things are a walkable distance with a few exceptions. The attractions that are exceptions that you can easily get a very affordable quick Uber ride. We rented a car on the day we left Zagreb and headed to Plitvice Lakes.

For more Croatia travel inspiration, visit my 8 day Croatia itinerary!

Zagreb itinerary 2 days

If you’re not a fast traveler and you don’t like packing a lot in, expand your time in Zagreb to 2 days where you can linger in a museum or take a day trip from Zagreb.

If you decide to take a day trip to Plitvice Lakes , you could go from Zagreb to Split after leaving Zagreb. Or, you can also go from Zagreb, to Plitvice Lakes and then onto Zadar before making your way to Split. Great day trips from Split include a day on the island of Hvar or the nearby Krka National Park .

Zagreb in one day Conclusion

Even if you only have one day to spend in Croatia’s capital city of Zagreb it’s definitely a stop that shouldn’t be missed! From all of the historic sites, museums and great places to eat and drink Zagreb deserves at least one day (if not two) at the beginning of your Croatia travels or the tail end. 

I hope this helped to plan and inspire your travels to Croatia! Spending one perfect day in Zagreb is well worth it. This was our first stop during over a week of travels in Croatia so I have a lot more to share! Check out our full 8 day Croatia itinerary for travel planning ideas.

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