Croatia Self Drive 03 - Off the Beaten Track

Summary

Venture beyond the familiar coastlines to uncover Croatia’s continental treasures. This self-drive journey takes you from Zagreb to Varaždin’s elegant baroque streets and Osijek’s historic Tvrđa, with the wetlands of Kopacki Rit offering a peaceful retreat into nature. Perfect for travellers seeking history, culture, and scenery away from the crowds, this itinerary reveals a side of Croatia often overlooked, yet rich in stories, architecture, and landscapes.

Activity code: CRFD03

Duration: 9 Days

Do not overlook Croatia’s continental heart, a region of varied landscapes, fascinating history, and cities less visited by the usual tourist routes. Depending on your flight schedule, you can start or finish in Zagreb, a compact and walkable capital with excellent public transport and an array of cultural sights. It is also possible to include a day trip to the world-famous Plitvice Lakes National Park before heading inland to explore the quieter, often overlooked corners of northern and eastern Croatia.

From Zagreb, your journey begins northwards to the charming university town of Varaždin, one of Croatia’s oldest settlements, even predating the capital. Situated on the southern bank of the River Drava and known as the “Northwest Gate of Croatia,” Varaždin boasts an elegant historic centre, tree-lined avenues, and several fine parks. Its baroque architecture and the stately castle offer a glimpse into the town’s period as the temporary capital of Croatia in the 18th century, while the lively student population gives the town a relaxed, easy-going atmosphere.

Heading east, the itinerary takes you to Osijek, the vibrant centre of the Slavonia region bordering Serbia. The city is divided into Gornji Grad (Upper Town) and Donji Grad (Lower Town), reflecting its layered history. The fortified Tvrđa district contains beautiful Baroque buildings and is a peaceful contrast to the bustling avenues of the 19th-century sections, lined with cafés, shops, and cultural venues. Just outside the city, the Kopacki Rit Nature Park offers one of Europe’s largest wetlands, a haven for birdlife and a striking landscape where the Drava and Danube rivers meet.

From Osijek, you may return directly to Zagreb along the highway, or extend your journey further. For those with more time, it is possible to continue south into Bosnia and Herzegovina via Sarajevo and Mostar, or even further to Dubrovnik, creating a grand tour through some of the Balkans’ most compelling and less-travelled landscapes. This itinerary highlights the rich history, natural beauty, and cultural depth of continental Croatia, rewarding those who wish to explore beyond the coast.

Important Information

Flights available to book with us through a range of airlines, from various UK airports to Croatia. If we book your flights this means that your holiday will also be fully ATOL protected.

ALL SELF-DRIVE HOLIDAYS THAT START & FINISH IN ZAGREB CAN BE DONE WITH A FULLY ELECTRIC VEHICLE; CHARGING POINTS ARE AVAILABLE AT LOCATIONS ON THIS ITINERARY.

Prices shown are a guideline "from" (in UK Pounds) and are based on a travelling party of at least 2 adults. Single supplements may need to be applied to the twin/double price and discounts for children (under 12yrs) and/or a 3rd adult sharing a room are available upon request. Quoted prices for individual enquiries will depend upon your chosen accommodation, room availability and dates of travel. We always aim to match a high quality experience with exceptional value for money. Discounts will apply if there are 3 or more people in your travelling party as fixed costs such as transportation and guides will be shared equally between the group.