Croatia Self Drive 04 - Zagreb Circuit

Summary

Experience the best of central Croatia on this week-long self-drive holiday from Zagreb. From the cascading lakes of Plitvice to the historic streets of Split and Trogir, the vibrant island of Hvar, and the coastal charm of Zadar, this journey blends stunning scenery, rich culture, and historic towns. With short daily drives and the flexibility to explore at your own pace, it’s the perfect introduction to Croatia’s inland and coastal treasures.

Activity code: CRFD04

Duration: 8 Days

Explore central Croatia on this varied self-drive holiday, starting and finishing in Zagreb. In just one week you can combine the vibrant capital with some of Croatia’s most beautiful landscapes, from the sparkling Adriatic coast to the inland splendour of Plitvice Lakes National Park, with a taste of island life along the way. This journey offers a rich blend of natural beauty, culture, and history, all at a relaxed pace.

Your holiday begins with a smooth transfer to your hotel in Zagreb, giving you time to explore the city’s elegant squares, historic streets, and riverside promenades. The following day, your hire car is delivered and you head into the countryside towards Plitvice Lakes. With drives kept short, you can fully enjoy the spectacular waterfalls, turquoise lakes, and forest trails, pausing for picnics or leisurely walks in this iconic National Park.

From Plitvice, continue south along scenic roads to Split, the Dalmatian coast’s historic heart. From here a short ferry takes you to Hvar Island, where the lively old town and hilltop fortress await. You can enjoy charming streets, waterfront cafés, and nearby coves, before a scenic drive along the island leads back to the mainland. Adventure options are plentiful here, from rafting to a multi-zip-wire experience in the Cetina Valley near Omis, with Split or Trogir providing the perfect overnight base.

The final leg takes you north to Zadar, whose compact old town is rich in history and character, complemented by innovative modern installations. After exploring the city and its surroundings, it’s a straightforward drive back to Zagreb Airport for your flight home.

Those wishing to extend the journey have plenty of options, including travelling further along the coast to Rijeka and Opatija, enjoying Istria, or adding island stops such as Pag, Rab, or Krk via short ferries or bridges.

This self-drive itinerary is ideal for travellers seeking a balance of culture, history, and scenic variety, all while enjoying the flexibility and freedom that comes with exploring Croatia by car.

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.