Coastal Croatia Self-Drive
Stunning coastlines and UNESCO Sites
Embark on the ultimate self-drive vacation through Croatia, starting in Zagreb, the vibrant capital, before heading to the charming coastal towns of Zadar, the Split area (Podstrana), and Dubrovnik. Along the way, you'll witness Croatia's breathtaking coastlines, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and natural wonders like Plitvice Lakes National Park.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Zagreb (ZAG)
- Manual rental car
- Pick up ZAG Airport on Day 1, drop off DBV Airport on Day 9*
- 2 nights in Zagreb at the Garden Inn, or similar
- 2 nights in Zadar at the Porto Hotel, or similar
- 2 nights in Split (Podstrana) at the San Antonio Hotel, or similar
- 2 nights in Dubrovnik at the Lero Hotel, or similar
- One-way domestic flight from Dubrovnik to Zagreb
- Includes 1 checked in luggage of 23 kg and 1 hand luggage per person
- 1 night in Zagreb at the Royal Airport Hotel, or similar
- Breakfast Daily
Please note: tourist tax is not included, and will need to be paid to the hotel directly. It is approximately 2 Euro per person per night and subject to change.
*One-way car rental drop off fee will apply. The amount is subject to change but is approximately $90 at time of publishing.
Great Ways to Explore
Set off on a captivating self-drive adventure through Croatia, where the open road offers you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Begin in Zagreb, the lively capital rich in history and culture, before heading to Zadar, a stunning coastal gem. With your rental car, you’ll meander along Croatia’s breathtaking coastlines, discovering hidden coves and charming villages along the way.
Your next stop is Podstrana, near Split, where ancient ruins and vibrant city life meet. Take time exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, like Diocletian’s Palace, before heading to the pearl of the Adriatic — Dubrovnik, where medieval city walls and terracotta rooftops create a postcard-perfect setting.
In between, visit the serene Plitvice Lakes National Park, where turquoise lakes and cascading waterfalls make for an unforgettable detour. Along the way, indulge in Croatia’s rich culinary traditions, from fresh seafood to local delicacies, and savor excellent wines. End your journey back in Zagreb, having discovered the best of Croatia’s coastlines, landscapes, and culture.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Zagreb (ZAG)
- Manual rental car
- Pick up ZAG Airport on Day 1, drop off DBV Airport on Day 9*
- 2 nights in Zagreb at the Garden Inn, or similar
- 2 nights in Zadar at the Porto Hotel, or similar
- 2 nights in Split (Podstrana) at the San Antonio Hotel, or similar
- 2 nights in Dubrovnik at the Lero Hotel, or similar
- One-way domestic flight from Dubrovnik to Zagreb
- Includes 1 checked in luggage of 23 kg and 1 hand luggage per person
- 1 night in Zagreb at the Royal Airport Hotel, or similar
- Breakfast Daily
Please note: tourist tax is not included, and will need to be paid to the hotel directly. It is approximately 2 Euro per person per night and subject to change.
*One-way car rental drop off fee will apply. The amount is subject to change but is approximately $90 at time of publishing.
Set off on a captivating self-drive adventure through Croatia, where the open road offers you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Begin in Zagreb, the lively capital rich in history and culture, before heading to Zadar, a stunning coastal gem. With your rental car, you’ll meander along Croatia’s breathtaking coastlines, discovering hidden coves and charming villages along the way.
Your next stop is Podstrana, near Split, where ancient ruins and vibrant city life meet. Take time exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, like Diocletian’s Palace, before heading to the pearl of the Adriatic — Dubrovnik, where medieval city walls and terracotta rooftops create a postcard-perfect setting.
In between, visit the serene Plitvice Lakes National Park, where turquoise lakes and cascading waterfalls make for an unforgettable detour. Along the way, indulge in Croatia’s rich culinary traditions, from fresh seafood to local delicacies, and savor excellent wines. End your journey back in Zagreb, having discovered the best of Croatia’s coastlines, landscapes, and culture.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Enhance your vacation with:
- Walking city tours of Zagreb and Dubrovnik
Day 1. Welcome to Croatia!
Upon arrival in Zagreb, pick up your rental car and drive to your first accommodation. After settling in, head out to explore this historic city! Start by walking around the central Ban Jelačić Square, then dine at a local restaurant to celebrate your first night on Croatia vacation.
Check-in - Hilton Garden Inn Zagreb - Radnicka
Hilton Garden Inn is a 4-star hotel right in the heart of Zagreb.
The hotel has a 24-hour front desk to accommodate guests' needs around the clock, and there is a lobby bar where guests can mingle or have a cocktail to unwind. There is also an on-site restaurant that serves lunch and dinner, serving meals with locally sourced ingredients from the farms in Croatia. A breakfast buffet is also available, and there is an on-site fitness center.
Guest rooms feature a private bathroom, air-conditioning, a desk and chair, free Wi-Fi, a TV, coffee maker, iron/ironing board, a mini-fridge, and an in-room safe. Room service is also available.
Zagreb Main Bus Station is an 8-minute walk from the hotel, and attractions such as Archaeological Museum Zagreb and Botanical Garden Zagreb are within a 9-minute drive from the hotel.
Day 2. Zagreb
Explore the best attractions of Zagreb today! You can marvel at amazing street art throughout the city, visit the striking St. Mark's Church, take a picture of St. Stephen's Cathedral, and wander around the lush Botanical Gardens. Stop by the popular Dolac market for delectable bites and handmade goods. If you're interested in learning about history, visit the Zagreb City Museum or the Archeological Museum.
Day 3. Zagreb - Zadar
After breakfast, set off on your journey to Zadar, with a possible stop at the renowned Plitvice Lakes National Park. Filled with 16 lakes, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is filled with stunning waterfalls and places to relax. You can also take a brief detour to the village of Rastoke, just 20 minutes from Plitvice National Park.
After exploring the lakes, continue on to Zadar and check into your next hotel. Settle in for a bit, have a delicious dinner, and then head out to experience Zadar's vibrant nightlife.
A Tip For Your Trip: Note that the drive from Zagreb to Zadar is about 3 hours.
Check-in - Hotel Porto, Zadar
Experience the allure of Hotel Porto, situated in Zadar just 10 minutes from the beach.
Conveniently located just 10 minutes from the airport and town center, the bus stop is a mere 3-minute stroll, connecting travelers to the city center and railway for extended journeys. For those with a car, quick access to the highway and Dalmacija Marina in Sukosan is readily available.
Indulge in newly renovated rooms featuring air conditioning, TV, private bathrooms with showers, complimentary toiletries, free Wi-Fi, and hair dryers.
Guests can also enjoy a buffet breakfast or a cocktail at the onsite restaurant and bar.
Day 4. Zadar
Enjoy a day of sightseeing in Zadar! Start by admiring the architecture in the Old Town, then grab a bite to eat around Narodni Trg (People’s Square). Climb the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city walls for incredible views, check out Five Wells Square, and indulge in a delectable dinner.
Day 5. Zadar - Split (Podstrana)
Have breakfast at the hotel, and then drive to your accommodation in the Split area. After checking in and relaxing for a bit, head back out to explore this vibrant city. Start by visiting the magnificent Diocletian's Palace, which houses impressive Roman remains from about 18 centuries ago. Have a delicious dinner tonight and rest for another day of sightseeing tomorrow.
A Tip For Your Trip: Note that the drive from Zadar to Split is about 2 hours.
Check-in - Hotel San Antonio
Located on a tranquil white pebble beach in Podstrana, the 4-star luxurious Hotel San Antonio offers a serene retreat just a short drive from Split’s city center and the historic Diocletian’s Palace. This contemporary beachfront hotel is perfect for individuals, pairs, or large groups seeking a peaceful getaway, with a blend of relaxation, aquatic fun, and stress relief.
Eager travelers will also appreciate its proximity to local attractions and its convenient services for excursions to stunning Adriatic destinations.
Rooms are sleek with a minimalist approach, yet include all the goods you'd want to have on a beachside retreat, including a large-screen TV, Wi-Fi, room service, marble bathroom, and the option for a window overlooking the gorgeous blue waters.
Guests can enjoy a seasonal rooftop pool with breathtaking views of the sea, a restaurant with a terrace, and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property.
Additionally, guests can unwind at the on-site sauna, keep active in the fitness room, or relax at the bar. With free parking and EV chargers for electric vehicles, Hotel San Antonio ensures a comfortable and sustainable stay. Talk to the hotel staff to book exciting activities such as rafting, canyoning, and horseback riding, along with trips to Krka National Park and nearby islands.
Day 6. Split (Podstrana)
Wake up, have breakfast, then venture out for more exploration. Start by walking around the scenic Riva Promenade, then journey up Marjan Hill for spectacular views. Later, you could drive about 20 minutes to visit the Putalj Winery if you'd like to try some fine Croatian wine.
Day 7. Split (Podstrana) - Dubrovnik
After breakfast, drive to Dubrovnik! Dive into this vibrant city by exploring Dubrovnik's old town, perhaps visiting some Game of Thrones filming locations. Later consider sampling some craft beer in a Dubrovnik brewery and having a delicious dinner.
A Tip For Your Trip: Note that the drive from Split to Dubrovnik is about 3 and a half hours.
Check-in - Hotel Lero Dubrovnik
Hotel Lero is a 4-star hotel in Dubrovnik just under a 5-minute walk from the beach and a little over a mile away from the medieval Walls of Dubrovnik.
The hotel offers breakfast in the morning and two restaurants, a piano bar, and a pool bar. There is also an on-site spa where guests can indulge in treatments like massages, manicures and pedicures, eyebrow shaping, and more. The hotel also features a sauna, fitness center, and outdoor pool.
Guest rooms are bright and spacious, featuring blackout curtains for a restful night's sleep. There is a private bathroom with a hair dryer, bathrobes, and slippers. Other amenities include air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, an in-room safe, a desk, coffee maker, and TV.
The hotel offers guests a convenient location, just a 15-minute stroll from the UNESCO-protected Old City of Dubrovnik and a mere 5-minute walk from the pebble Miramare Beach.
Day 8. Dubrovnik
Discover more of Dubrovnik today! Check out Rector's Palace, walk the imposing city walls, and relax on Banje Beach. For something extra exciting, take the cablecar up Mount Srđ for magnificent views.
Day 9. Dubrovnik - Zagreb
Savor a delicious breakfast buffet and relax before returning your rental car and catching your flight from Dubrovnik to Zagreb. After checking in at your airport-area hotel, enjoy your final moments in Croatia.
Fly from Dubrovnik to Zagreb
Check-in - Hotel Royal Airport
This 4-star hotel, located just 5 minutes from Zagreb Airport, provides convenient accommodations with contemporary comforts. Ideally situated in a peaceful and pleasant neighborhood, this hotel is just about 6 miles from the from the vibrant city center.
Start your day with a buffet breakfast featuring a variety of local and international options. Savor authentic Croatian cuisine crafted from seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, or opt for an international dish from the à la carte menu.
Each air-conditioned room comes equipped with a flat-screen satellite TV, minibar, desk, private bathroom, and hair dryer.
Day 10. Depart Croatia
Your incredible vacation in Croatia has unfortunately come to an end. Have one last breakfast at the hotel before checking out and heading to the airport.
Fly home!
We have selected the most economical flight schedule for you. Please note that shorter and more convenient flight options may be available at an additional cost.
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