easy day trips from zagreb

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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

20 Best Day Trips from Zagreb Croatia, by a Local

By: Author Milijana

Posted on Published: July 31, 2023  - Last updated: March 7, 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.

HIS 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 p from April to October and from 9 am to 4 pm from November to March. The admission fee is 4 € . 

Trakošćan Castle is only one hour 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. And 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 tick 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 other two 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, candles 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 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 min 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 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 Renessainsce, 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. And 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.

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Comments (5)

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18 Best Day Trips from Zagreb, Croatia

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

By now I was lucky to visit Croatia a few times hence you can find many articles here that you might find interesting or useful when planning your own trip to Croatia. Here are some of them:

• 33 Best Places to Visit in Croatia
• 25 Wonderful Things to Do in Zagreb, Croatia
• How to visit Krka National Park in Croatia
• 23 Amazing Things to Do in Dubrovnik, Croatia
• 35 Split pictures that will inspire you to visit Split, Croatia
• and many more!

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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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Zagreb

Day trips from zagreb.

• Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes National Park
• Zagreb to Bled
• Zagreb to Postojna
• Zagreb to Ljubljana
• Private Day Trips
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Plitvice Lakes with Ticket & Rastoke Small Group Tour from Zagreb

2. Plitvice and Rastoke day trip from Zagreb w/ticket (guar. dep.)

3. Day Tour to LJUBLJANA LAKE BLED with minivan 8pax max from Zagreb

4. Ljubljana and Bled Lake - small group - day tour from Zagreb

5. Private Wine Tasting Tour from Zagreb

6. Ljubljana with Funicular, Castle and Lake Bled from Zagreb

7. Plitvice Lakes & Rastoke small-group, w/ ticket (guaranteed dep.)

8. Discover FairyTale Croatia: Castles of Northern Croatia Private Trip from Zagreb

9. Private Shopping Tour from Zagreb to Designer Outlet Croatia

10. Plitvice Lakes guided Tour from Zagreb

11. Plitvice Lakes and Rastoke Private Day Tour from Zagreb

12. Highlights of Istria Full-Day Photo Tour from Zagreb

13. Opatija, Rijeka, Trsat tour from Zagreb

14. The Best of Slovenia, Bled lake, Postojna cave and Ljubljana

15. Magical Lake Bled and Ljubljana Private Tour from Zagreb

16. Private eclectic experience of Rastoke and Plitvice Lakes National Park

17. Grand SLOVENIA: Ljubljana + Lake Bled + Postojna Cave - Day Tour

18. Varazdin Baroque Town & Trakoscan Castle, Small Group from Zagreb

19. Ljubljana and Lake Bled - private tour from Zagreb

20. Postojna Cave & Predjama Castle with Tickets and Ljubljana

21. Private Tour: Ljubljana and Lake Bled Day Trip from Zagreb

22. Private Trip to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb with ticket included

23. Ljubljana Full Day Small Group Tour from Zagreb

24. Day trip to Nin and Zadar

25. Plitvice Lakes and Rastoke Private Day Tour from Zagreb

26. Plitvice Lakes Day Tour – Group Tour

27. Slovenia's highlights: Bled lake and Ljubljana Full-Day Private Tour from Zagreb

28. Plitvice Lakes&Rastoke Day Trip from Zagreb (5 h at the Lakes)

29. Discover picturesque surroundings of Zagreb

30. Plitvice Lakes and Rastoke Tour from Zagreb

What travellers are saying.

• Plitvice Lakes with Ticket & Rastoke Small Group Tour from Zagreb
• Plitvice lakes and Rastoke day trip from Zagreb (guaranteed dep.)
• Day Tour to LJUBLJANA LAKE BLED with minivan 8pax max from Zagreb
• Ljubljana and Bled Lake - small group - day tour from Zagreb
• Plitvice Lakes guided Tour from Zagreb
• Questo App | Zagreb Walking Tours & City Exploration Games
• Travel to Croatia
• Travelpoint travel agency
• pathfinder TOURS
• Bespoke Croatia Tours & DMC
• The Guide - Day Tours
• Zagreb Transfers & Tours
• Zico Day Tours
• Active Tours
• Viatica Travel
• Smart Travel
• Wanderer Travel
• Raftrek Adventure Travel
• Swanky Travel

Top Zagreb Day Trips

Day trips from zagreb.

• Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes National Park
• Zagreb to Bled
• Zagreb to Postojna
• Zagreb to Ljubljana
• Private Day Trips
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Plitvice Lakes with Ticket & Rastoke Small Group Tour from Zagreb

2. Plitvice and Rastoke day trip from Zagreb w/ticket (guar. dep.)

3. Day Tour to LJUBLJANA LAKE BLED with minivan 8pax max from Zagreb

4. Ljubljana and Bled Lake - small group - day tour from Zagreb

5. Private Wine Tasting Tour from Zagreb

6. Ljubljana with Funicular, Castle and Lake Bled from Zagreb

7. Plitvice Lakes & Rastoke small-group, w/ ticket (guaranteed dep.)

8. Discover FairyTale Croatia: Castles of Northern Croatia Private Trip from Zagreb

9. Plitvice Lakes guided Tour from Zagreb

10. Private hedonistic food and wine experience from Zagreb

11. Plitvice Lakes and Rastoke Private Day Tour from Zagreb

12. Highlights of Istria Full-Day Photo Tour from Zagreb

13. Opatija, Rijeka, Trsat tour from Zagreb

14. The Best of Slovenia, Bled lake, Postojna cave and Ljubljana

15. Magical Lake Bled and Ljubljana Private Tour from Zagreb

16. Private eclectic experience of Rastoke and Plitvice Lakes National Park

17. Grand SLOVENIA: Ljubljana + Lake Bled + Postojna Cave - Day Tour

18. Varazdin Baroque Town & Trakoscan Castle, Small Group from Zagreb

19. Ljubljana and Lake Bled - private tour from Zagreb

20. Postojna Cave & Predjama Castle with Tickets and Ljubljana

21. Private Tour: Ljubljana and Lake Bled Day Trip from Zagreb

22. Private Trip to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb with ticket included

23. Exploring Zagreb and Plitvice Lakes area with Deer Ranch visit

24. Day trip to Nin and Zadar

25. Plitvice Lakes and Rastoke Private Day Tour from Zagreb

26. Plitvice Lakes Day Tour – Group Tour

27. Slovenia's highlights: Bled lake and Ljubljana Full-Day Private Tour from Zagreb

28. Plitvice Lakes&Rastoke Day Trip from Zagreb (5 h at the Lakes)

29. Discover picturesque surroundings of Zagreb

30. Plitvice Lakes and Rastoke Tour from Zagreb

What travellers are saying.

• Plitvice Lakes with Ticket & Rastoke Small Group Tour from Zagreb
• Plitvice lakes and Rastoke day trip from Zagreb (guaranteed dep.)
• Day Tour to LJUBLJANA LAKE BLED with minivan 8pax max from Zagreb
• Ljubljana and Bled Lake - small group - day tour from Zagreb
• Plitvice Lakes guided Tour from Zagreb
• Questo App | Zagreb Walking Tours & City Exploration Games
• Travel to Croatia
• Travelpoint travel agency
• pathfinder TOURS
• Bespoke Croatia Tours & DMC
• The Guide - Day Tours
• Zagreb Transfers & Tours
• Zico Day Tours
• Active Tours
• Viatica Travel
• Smart Travel
• Wanderer Travel
• Raftrek Adventure Travel
• Swanky Travel

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Zagreb

Day trips from zagreb.

• Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes National Park
• Zagreb to Bled
• Zagreb to Postojna
• Zagreb to Ljubljana
• Private Day Trips
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Plitvice Lakes with Ticket & Rastoke Small Group Tour from Zagreb

2. Plitvice and Rastoke day trip from Zagreb w/ticket (guar. dep.)

3. Day Tour to LJUBLJANA LAKE BLED with minivan 8pax max from Zagreb

4. Ljubljana and Bled Lake - small group - day tour from Zagreb

5. Private Wine Tasting Tour from Zagreb

6. Ljubljana with Funicular, Castle and Lake Bled from Zagreb

7. Plitvice Lakes & Rastoke small-group, w/ ticket (guaranteed dep.)

8. Discover FairyTale Croatia: Castles of Northern Croatia Private Trip from Zagreb

9. Plitvice Lakes guided Tour from Zagreb

10. Exploring Zagreb and Plitvice Lakes area with Deer Ranch visit

11. Plitvice Lakes and Rastoke Private Day Tour from Zagreb

12. Highlights of Istria Full-Day Photo Tour from Zagreb

13. Opatija, Rijeka, Trsat tour from Zagreb

14. The Best of Slovenia, Bled lake, Postojna cave and Ljubljana

15. Magical Lake Bled and Ljubljana Private Tour from Zagreb

16. Private eclectic experience of Rastoke and Plitvice Lakes National Park

17. Grand SLOVENIA: Ljubljana + Lake Bled + Postojna Cave - Day Tour

18. Varazdin Baroque Town & Trakoscan Castle, Small Group from Zagreb

19. Private Shopping Tour from Zagreb to Designer Outlet Croatia

20. Ljubljana and Lake Bled - private tour from Zagreb

21. Postojna Cave & Predjama Castle with Tickets and Ljubljana

22. Private Tour: Ljubljana and Lake Bled Day Trip from Zagreb

23. Private Trip to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb with ticket included

24. Day trip to Nin and Zadar

25. Plitvice Lakes and Rastoke Private Day Tour from Zagreb

26. Plitvice Lakes Day Tour – Group Tour

27. Slovenia's highlights: Bled lake and Ljubljana Full-Day Private Tour from Zagreb

28. Plitvice Lakes&Rastoke Day Trip from Zagreb (5 h at the Lakes)

29. Discover picturesque surroundings of Zagreb

30. Plitvice Lakes and Rastoke Tour from Zagreb

What travellers are saying.

• Plitvice Lakes with Ticket & Rastoke Small Group Tour from Zagreb
• Plitvice lakes and Rastoke day trip from Zagreb (guaranteed dep.)
• Day Tour to LJUBLJANA LAKE BLED with minivan 8pax max from Zagreb
• Ljubljana and Bled Lake - small group - day tour from Zagreb
• Ljubljana with Funicular, Castle and Lake Bled from Zagreb
• Questo App | Zagreb Walking Tours & City Exploration Games
• Travel to Croatia
• Travelpoint travel agency
• pathfinder TOURS
• Bespoke Croatia Tours & DMC
• The Guide - Day Tours
• Zagreb Transfers & Tours
• Zico Day Tours
• Active Tours
• Viatica Travel
• Smart Travel
• Wanderer Travel
• Raftrek Adventure Travel
• Swanky Travel

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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Best Day Trips from Zagreb

Zagreb is the capital and biggest city in Croatia and serves as one of the major gateways to the Balkans. Situated along the Sava River , on the northwest side of the country, Zagreb is designated as a global city and is the main transportation, education, economic and government hub of Croatia. The charming capital of Croatia is also known for its rich history, with some parts dating back to the Roman era.

Zagreb is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Croatia and is known for its range of world-class museums (see our list of the best museums in Zagreb ), historic attractions, beautiful buildings and entertainment and sporting events. While there are plenty of fun things to do in the city to keep you busy, there are also numerous spots nearby that are worth checking out for the day.

If you’re looking to visit locations outside of the Croatian capital, check out our list of best day trips from Zagreb to help with your planning. This selection includes a range of spots – from historic towns to national parks. Don’t forget to store your bags at a luggage locker in Zagreb before you head out for the day. Don't carry heavy luggage so that you can freely explore the day trip destinations we've outlined below. Enjoy the sights of this lovely area!

How to Get Out of Zagreb

Zagreb is Croatia’s most significant transportation hub and is the country’s center of road, air, and rail networks and it is also where Central Europe, Southeast Europe, and the Mediterranean meet. Needless to say, Croatia's capital city has an impressive and efficient public transport network.

Getting in and out of the city center is a breeze, whether by train, bus or car. While most Zagreb day trips can be done via public transportation, having your own rental car allows for better flexibility in your schedule.

From Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes National Park

A popular destination in Croatia that attracts an average of one million tourists per year, the Plitvice Lakes National Park is a top choice for a day trip from Zagreb. Located in the central part of Croatia, it is the biggest park in the country, extending to over 70,000 acres, and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Plitvice National Park is known for its stunning caves and lakes that are linked by grand cascading waterfalls. The largest one is the Veliki Slap, which is connected to the 16 cascading lakes across the Plitvice Lakes Park. There are also numerous hiking trails and boardwalks that visitors can utilize in order to explore the expansive park. One of the fun activities that you can do at Plitvice Lakes is to take a boat ride across Lake Kozjak; this allows you to get an incredible view of the picturesque sceneries and wonders.

How to get to Plitvice Lakes National Park

To get to the Plitvice Lakes National Parks from Zagreb, go to the principal bus station in the city center, where you can find numerous buses making the trip to the park. The bus ride takes about 2.5 hours per way. If you have your own car, the journey will take about 2 hours or less. Alternatively, you can book one of the many guided day tours being offered from the capital.

From Zagreb to Samobor

Arguably the most accessible day trip destination from Zagreb, Samobor is a charming quaint town located in the foothills of the Zumberak Mountains, not too far from the Slovenian border. Because of its proximity to the Croatian capital, Samobor has become a popular day trip for both locals and tourists coming from Zagreb wanting to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Found in the heart of Samobor is King Tomislav Square, the town’s historic center and main square. The area is characterized by charming cobblestone streets filled with establishments such as cafés and restaurants and is a good place to hang out and rewind. Other notable points of interest in Samobor include the historic St. Anastasia Parish Church and the Samobor Castle (also known as the Stari Grad Castle) found atop Tepec Hill . Before heading back to Zagreb, don’t forget to stop by one of the many coffee houses in town and try their beloved local cream cake, known as samoborska kremšnita.

How to get to Samobor

From the Zagreb main bus station (locally known as Autobusni Kolodvor), take one of the multiple buses making a trip to Samobor. The journey via public bus takes about half an hour per way.

From Zagreb to Osijek

Situated east of Zagreb is Osijek, Croatia’s fourth-biggest city and the economic and cultural hub of the Slavonia region. Set by the banks of the Drava River, near the Serbian border, Osijek is busy but has gradually become one of the most popular and fabulous day trips from Zagreb because of its stunning and historic buildings. Osijek is often referred to as “Baroque city” because of its collection of beautiful Baroque architecture.

One of the most notable Baroque-style structures found in the city is the Tvrđa fortress , an ancient citadel that has been around since the 18th century. Other impressive attractions include the Ante Starčević Square, the Church of St Peter & St Paul, and the Municipal Park of King Petar Krešimir IV. Osijek is also renowned for its wide range of cultural events year-round, including the Croatian Tambura Music Festival held every May.

How to get to Osijek

You can take a public bus from the Zagreb main bus station direct to Osijek, which will take about 4 hours per way. That said, if you are pressed for time, the better option would be to have your own car (which will save you about an hour of travel time) or book a guided tour from Zagreb.

From Zagreb to Trakoscan Castle

While there are a number of impressive castles in Croatia, there are none more popular and stunning than the Trakoscan Castle. This 13th century castle is a fairytale-like palace that used to serve as the seat of the prominent Drašković family from the 1500s until the 19th century when it went through an extensive restoration. During this restoration, the castle was transformed into a Romanticist manor house and museum with a sophisticated garden arrangement.

Today, the Trakoscan Castle is open to the public and is one of Croatia’s most famous tourist attractions. It now functions as a fascinating museum with a permanent exhibition of items related to the Drašković dynasty, including portraits, furniture and weapons. Aside from the historic collection inside the castle, guests can also explore the lovely grounds and pretty views of the mountainside and lake.

How to get to Trakoscan Castle

Unfortunately, there is no direct bus that can take you from Zagreb to Trakoscan Lake; you would have to take a bus from Zagreb to Varazdin and then take another bus to the castle. If you want a direct and more convenient option, you can either rent your own car or book one of the many guided day tours being offered from the city.

From Zagreb to Ljubljana

Slovenia is Croatia’s neighbor to the northeast and its capital, Ljubljana, has become one of the most popular day trips from Zagreb. Ljubljana is a busy city that serves as Slovenia’s cultural, educational, political, and economic heart and is one of the best places to visit in the country. In the city, visitors can take in scenic riverfronts, check out a range of historical buildings and sample some of the unique local cuisine.

The Old Town in Ljubljana is the best place to start as it is home to some of the most recognizable landmarks and UNESCO World Heritage Sites found in the city. Some of the noteworthy attractions in the Old Town include the Franciscan Church, the Hauptmann House, and the Prešernov Square. While here, you should also visit Ljubljana Castle, a former medieval fortress located atop Castle Hill. The Slovenian capital is also known for its collection of picturesque bridges, including the famous Dragon Bridge and Triple Bridge.

How to get to Ljubljana

Despite having to cross the border, getting from Zagreb to Ljubljana is actually pretty easy via public transportation. You can either take a direct bus or train from the city, which will take roughly 2.5 hours per way. If you want to avoid the hassle of organizing everything on your own, you may want to consider booking an organized tour instead. In doing so, the tour company will take care of all the necessary arrangements and you get an experienced guide to show you around.

From Zagreb to Kumrovec

One of the most idyllic day trips from Zagreb is Kumrovec village, a historic peasant town situated on the eastern side of the Sutla Valley in northern Croatia, not too far from the Slovenian border. Considered a traditional Croatian village, Kumrovec is best known as the birthplace of Josip Broz Tito, the former president of Yugoslavia. It is also a great way to learn about and see the village life of the residents of the Croatian region of Zagorje.

Today, Kumrovec has built a reputation as one of the most unique Zagreb day trips. The village is one that you can easily enjoy exploring because of the range of attractions and interesting sights to discover. One of the must-visit spots in town is the Old Village Museum, which is an open-air, ethnographic city museum that showcases the life of the Zagorje people before the First World War took place. Another point of interest is Tito’s former home, which now serves as a museum dedicated to his life and work.

How to get to Kumrovec

There are public buses from Zagreb city center that take direct trips to Kumrovec, with the journey taking less than two hours. Another option is to take the train from Zagreb train station to Veliko Trgovisce and then take a taxi to Kumrovec. You also have the option to drive your own rental car or book an organized tour from Zagreb.

From Zagreb to Rastoke

Located in the town of Slunj, just a short distance from the Plitvice Lakes National Park, is the picturesque village of Rastoke. Though often overlooked for its neighbor, the former milling village is definitely worth the day trip. One of the most special characteristics of Rastoke is that the Slunjčica River flows through the village and into the River Korana , producing over 20 different cascades and smaller waterfalls. The idyllic village also features several old-fashioned houses and mills sitting on small islands, all connected by lovely footbridges.

How to get to Rastoke

Numerous public buses are available throughout the day and go directly from Zagreb to Rastoke, with the journey taking about two hours. However, because of its proximity to the Plitvice Lakes National Park, you may want to consider booking a guided tour that covers both locations so you can see both places within a day.

Enjoy a Zagreb Day Trip

When you visit Croatia with its cobbled streets and beautiful architecture, you'll find plenty to do meandering the pretty streets. Still, a day trip from Zagreb is always a terrific adventure. Put on your walking shoes and take a road trip to main attractions like a nearby nature park with green hills to climb, or an intriguing museum or castle. And don't miss the opportunity to explore restaurants and shops in these areas too.

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6 Sensational Day Trips From Zagreb, Croatia

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

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 !

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Guide To Day Trips

Day Trips and Tours Made Easy

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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Best Day trips from Zagreb

Croatia’s capital city of Zagreb is a wonderful vacation destination. Summer months offer long days and warm weather, while winter in Zagreb offers Christmas markets and skating rinks.

Like many European capital cities, Zagreb has many things to do including food, history, architecture, arts, culture and music. However, don’t overlook the many options for fun day trips from Zagreb. Here are a few of our favorites.

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Plitvice Lakes National Park

Croatia’s most popular national park is just two hours from Zagreb. Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site best known for the waterfalls. 16 lakes cascade into one another through a series of waterfalls surrounded by lush forest.

Plitvice National Park has several hiking trails and walkways around the lakes, or you can take an electric boat tours between some lakes. Join a bus tour from Zagreb or rent a car and explore on your own.

Day trips to Plitvice Lakes National Park

• Zagreb to Split Group Transfer with Plitvice Lakes Tour
• Plitvice Lakes and Rastoke Full-Day Tour from Zagreb
• litvice Lakes Guided Day Trip from Zagreb
• Plitvice Lakes Private Guided Tour from Zagreb with Transfer to Zadar

Less than 30 km from Zagreb is the medieval village of Samobor. You can easily reach Samobar by bus from Zagreb and spend the day exploring cobblestone streets.

Download a walking tour before you visit, and be sure to make the 10-minute walk to visit the castle on the hill.

Samobor has lots of restaurants to choose from, and outdoor cafes pop up all over when it gets warm out.

For those looking for outdoor adventure, Samobor is surrounded by nature, so there are many hiking trails around. If you prefer, there are many tour operators offering day trips from Zagreb to Samobor.

Day trips to Samobor

• The Dionysus Tour Lunch or dinner and Wine Tasting at Plesivica
• Samobor and NP Zumberak Priavet Winter Hike from Zagreb
• Private Wine Road Day Tour from Zagreb
• Private Samobor and Rimac Automobili Factory 5-Hour Tour from Zagreb

A bit farther from Zagreb is the “City on Four Rivers.” Karlovac is a fortress town that was nearly completely destroyed in the Homeland War of the 1990’s.

Only 49 kilometers, Karlovac is a popular day trip from Zagreb, especially for beer lovers wanting to visit Karlovac Brewery.

You can schedule a tour, or attend the beer festival in August. There are several museums and an aquarium in Karlovac, or outdoor adventures like river rafting. Buses and trains from Zagreb are frequent and inexpensive.

Day trips to Karlovac

• Plitvice lakes Rastoke village Turanj fortress and cheese tasting
• Private Tour to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb with Drop-off in Zadar
• Private Day Tour: Fruska Gora Monasteries and Sremski Karlovci

Ljubljana, Slovenia

For a day trip beyond the borders of Croatia , check out the Slovenian capital city of Ljubljana. There are at least 10 trains per day between the two capital cities, taking from 2 hours 15 minutes to 3 hours.

Ljubljana is a charming town centered on the Ljubljana River, with several picturesque bridges to explore. The Ljubljana cathedral looms over the city, with a green copper dome and ornate interior.

There are many things to do in Ljubljana, including just wandering the cobblestone streets amongst cafes, restaurants and shops.

Day trips to Ljubljana

• Ljubljana and Lake Bled Full Day Excursion from Zagreb
• Full-Day Ljubljana and Bled Small-Group Tour from Zagreb
• Ljubljana and Bled – Small Group Day Tour from Zagreb
• Postojna cave and Ljubljana group tour from Zagreb
• Ljubljana and Postojna caves Full-Day Private Tour from Zagreb

For a coastal escape from Zagreb, consider a day trip to Rijeka, a port city on the Adriatic Sea . Rijeka is easy to reach from Zagreb, with several bus and train departures making the 160 km journey each day. Rijeka is the gateway to Croatia’s islands, but is a worthy day trip destination of it’s own.

Spend the day exploring the city’s museums and attractions such as the Trsat Castle, Museum of the City, Maritime and History Museum and Rijeka Cathedral.

Rijeka is also a great place to enjoy a fresh seafood meal before you head back to Zagreb for the evening.

Day trips to Rijeka

• Private Tour from Zagreb to Rijeka Includes The Plitvice Lakes

Only 45 minutes from Zagreb, Krapina is an easy day trip . Krapina also sits on a river, and derives it’s name from the carp found in the river.

One of the most notable things about Krapina is that it’s the site of the largest number of Neanderthal fossil bones in Central Europe.

Today, you can visit the Krapina Neanderthal Museum that details the 1899 discovery. You can even visit the excavation site, just a short stroll from the museum.

On the main square in Krapina, you can enjoy a cafe or restaurant, and visit a few historic churches in the village.

Day trips to Krapina

• Trakoscan Castle and Museum of Neandertals

Trakošćan Castle is an interesting day trip from Zagreb. The castle dates back to the 13th century, and was originally a fortress of defense from the Ottoman Empire.

The castle offers splendid views of the surrounding countryside, and you can stroll the grounds at your leisure, enjoying the lake and forest nearby.

The best way to reach Trakošćan castle from Zagreb is to join a tour that includes transportation, or you can rent a car for the 80 km drive.

Public buses and trains don’t take you all the way to the castle, which is a bit outside of the village.

Day trips to Trakošćan

• Kumrovec Trakoscan Castle and Varazdin Full Day Tour from Zagreb
• Hiking and Trakoscan Castle
• Trakoscan Castle and Varazdin Private Full-Day Tour
• Trakoscan Castle and Varazdin Economy Tour from Zagreb
• Trakoscan-Varazdin with Cazma Christmas Fairytale Day Trip from Zagreb

For the ultimate outdoor adventure near Zagreb, visit Sljeme, a mountain that towers over the capital city. Also called Medvednica Mountain, there are many adventures to have if you just want a break from the city.

Only 20 minutes by car or public transit from the city center, has skiing in the winter and dozens of hiking trails in the summer. Thanks to Sljeme, Zagreb is the only European capital city with professional ski slopes!

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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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Top Day Trips from Zagreb, Croatia

Whether by bus, train, car or city transport, getting out of Croatia’s capital of Zagreb is easy and rewarding. Within close reach are medieval castles, ski slopes, national parks and an obscure railway junction used as the setting for one of the most famous murder mysteries in English literature.

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The most popular day trip from Croatia’s capital is Samobor, a postcard-perfect town close to the Slovenian border. The restaurants here provide visitors with traditional dishes of veal, game and trout. On Sundays, many head here from the city to sample the century-old atmosphere and sit in coffeehouses over a portion of local cream cake, the renowned samoborska kremšnita. They are joined by hikers before and after they brace ascents of the nearby wooded slopes.

Osijek is the main city in Slavonia. Just east of Zagreb, the city is busy and characterised by its Baroque architecture, most notably the historic 18th-century citadel, the Tvrđa, which towers over the banks of the river Drava. Also striking is the many-spired Church of St Peter & St Paul, the largest building in Croatia outside of Zagreb.

A two-hour drive from Zagreb, Plitvice is Croatia’s biggest and most popular national park, known for its 16 cascading lakes of changing blues and greens and set in lush greenery. Visiting Plitvice also provides plenty of opportunity to peruse the extensive plant life, and if you’re lucky, perhaps spot a rare wild cat, lynx or brown bear.

Vinkovci is a typical sleepy Slavonian town with a patchwork history and traditional restaurants that offer spicy fish stew. It is regularly visited by railway enthusiasts, not only because it’s the busiest junction outside Zagreb with links to the capitals of both Croatia and Serbia, but also because of its literary history, as Agatha Christie used the rail as the setting for the killing that took place in her book Murder on the Orient Express. Mentioned by name in the story, visitors frequently stroll around the rail terminus snapping photos.

Đakovo, often anglicised as Djakovo, is best known for its soaring cathedral, built by the town’s most famous resident, Bishop Strossmayer. Seen from miles around across the plains of Slavonia, the church hosts a number of folklore events, including some outdoors that involve the famous white Lipizzaner horses that are bred here.

“Baroque” is the word that springs to mind when mention is made of Varaždin, a pretty and historic city close to Croatia’s borders with Slovenia and Hungary. Dotted with churches and palaces that host a number of cultural festivals and ceremonies with baroque themes, Varaždin is also known for its castle that houses the City Museum.

Few would visit Kumrovec were it not for its one claim to fame; it was here that the post-World War II leader of Yugoslavia, Josip Broz Tito, was born in 1892. Right on the border between Croatia and Slovenia, reflecting Tito’s mixed parentage, Kumrovec was a modest farming village with one solitary brickwork house, which belonged to Tito’s father. Today the house is a memorial museum to the revered statesman, with a large bronze statue of him standing outside.

Few might associate Croatia with skiing, but the slopes of Sljeme produced the brother-and-sister champions Ivica and Janica Kostelić. So close to Zagreb that it is part of the city bus network, Sljeme features an international-class ski centre, but is also visited year-round by hikers, ramblers and climbers. Families come to picnic and cosy up in one of the many mountain huts or take the three-kilometre gondola lift, which has replaced the usual cable car, for now.

Croatia’s fairy-tale-esque Castle Trakošćan was the seat of the high-ranking Drašković family from the 1500s onwards. It was only in the 19th century that Major-General Juraj V Drašković turned this former lookout fortification into an elaborate Romanticist manor house surrounded by gardens in the same style. The castle is open to the public and has a permanent exhibition of furniture, portraits and weaponry relating to the Drašković dynasty.

In the hills of Zagorje that roll up towards the border with Slovenia, Krapina attracts visitors for two main reasons; in addition to being the location for the castles and mansions of its medieval Croatian and Hungarian rulers, Krapina was where one of the most dramatic archaeological discoveries in Europe was made—the remains of 900 ancient Neanderthal residents. Many are housed in the Krapina Neadrathal Museum, which is close to the cave where they were found in 1899.

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17 fabulous winter day trips from Zagreb

A pleasant drive or easy bus journey from the capital, these 17 destinations make a memorable day out in winter

Shorter days and colder nights are no excuse to stay inside this winter, especially when you have these fantastic day trips within easy reach of Zagreb . From fairytale castles to frozen-over lakes, Zagreb is surrounded by beautiful winter destinations. Here are some of our favourites.

RECOMMENDED: Great things to do in Zagreb this winter.

Sljeme, the upper slopes of Medvednica nature park on Zagreb’s northern doorstep, was made for winter. Its international ski centre opens up, but many locals are also happy to hike in the snowy landscape, popping in for warming, traditional mlinci pasta with turkey or bean soup in a rustic chalet eatery.

Open every day throughout the winter, the fairytale castle of Trakošćan an easy drive from Zagreb dominates a wondrous landscape when its large artificial lake freezes over and the many firs turn white with snow. Within the Drašković family pile, you’ll find original furniture, portraits and weaponry. 

The classic day trip from Zagreb, picture-postcard pretty and easily accessible, Samobor draws hikers and sightseers on romantic winter Sundays. Culture is one attraction – writers, artists and composers, Franz Liszt included, would meet in atmospheric cafés here. Another is the signature local cream cake, samoborska kremšnita, that they still serve.

The Baroque magnificence of Varaždin, the mansions and palaces of Croatia’s former capital, looks even more striking when snow surrounds its cobbled streets. Beneath the red rooftops of stark white Varaždin Castle, period furniture, weapons and ceramics merit investigation before a rewarding hot chocolate in the café by the entrance.

The Church of St Martin looks down on this tranquil town of 10,000 souls 20km east of Zagreb. Vineyards surround the Church of St Martin in Martin Breg on the northern outskirts, besides which a seven-metre high statue of the saint has local symbolic significance.

The magnificent cascading lakes and waterfalls of the Plitvice National Park take on a majestic appearance when covered in a blanket of snow, its waters dramatically frozen. Not only are there no crowds, but the entrance fee from November through March is 60kn, as opposed to 250kn in high season.

Ivanić Grad

A health resort 25km south-east of Zagreb, the former border town of Ivanić Grad now attracts visitors with its natural healing oils that help in the treatment of skin and rheumatic conditions. Among the many natural attractions amid the greenery of nearby Šuma Žutica is a colony of beavers.

Jastrebarsko

Set in beautiful wine country south-west of Zagreb, Jastrebarsko is home to Erdödy Castle, surrounded by parkland. The town dates back to the Romans, with finds displayed in the City Museum. Also on view is the royal charter of King Béla IV, granting Jastrebarsko free-city status in 1257.

The pretty hamlet of Krašić, 50km south-west of Zagreb, is a bucolic getaway located near the Kupčina river with several pretty waterfalls nearby.

Close to Ivanić-Grad, Križ was similarly a border town until the collapse of the Habsburg Empire in 1918. It lies close to Vezišće, where a statue and memorial room pay homage to Croatia’s most famous opera singer, Milka Ternina, born there in 1863.

Halfway between Zagreb and Karlovac, Pisarovina is where you find the open-air Donja Kupčina Museum and Ecopark Kraš that preserve the traditional rural way of life here. Nearby Bratina was home to Titanic victim Stjepan Turčin and today contains a modest collection of mementos from the fateful liner.

Sveti Ivan Zelina

Lending its name to the Zelina wine road that runs through it and the many surrounding communities, Sveti Ivan Zelina dates back many centuries as a visit to the town’s museum will attest. Nearby Zelingrad-Zelinska gora was first mentioned in chronicles in 1295.

Velika Gorica

Close to Zagreb Airport, Velika Gorica is the main town in the historic Turopolje region, named after the long-horned cattle that became extinct in the 1500s. This history can be traced in the Turopolje Museum by the tourist office. Nearby Lukavec Castle was the seat of Turopolje nobility.

North-west of Zagreb, Zaprešić was the seat of the Jelačić dynasty, including Ban Josip whose statue stands in Zagreb’s main square. The family resided at the stately Novi Dvori mansion, today also home to the Matija Skurjeni Museum, a gallery dedicated to this painter of naïve art.

Sveta Nedelja

Close to Samobor just west of Zagreb, Sveta Nedelja is best known for the Baroque Holy Trinity Parish Church and its links to the automotive industry. As well as being the base for electric sports-car manufacturer Rimac, it holds major rallies and, at the many lakes nearby, fishing competitions.

North-east of Zagreb, Vrbovec is a town of some 16,000 people, surrounded by some 50 villages. One of them, Negovec, was where the revered writer Marija Jurić Zagorka was born, Croatia’s first woman journalist and activist for women’s rights. Her books remain among the most popular in Croatian literature.

Žumberak-Samobor Hills

A protected Nature Park since 1999, the Žumberak-Samobor Hills lie 25km from Zagreb on the border with Slovenia. Typified by waterfalls and mountain streams, they are home to the rare aquatic bird, the white-throated dipper. Also here is the Budinjak prehistoric site, with rare Iron Age finds.

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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Zagreb

Day trips from zagreb.

• Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes National Park
• Zagreb to Bled
• Zagreb to Postojna
• Zagreb to Ljubljana
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Plitvice Lakes with Ticket & Rastoke Small Group Tour from Zagreb

2. Plitvice and Rastoke day trip from Zagreb w/ticket (guar. dep.)

3. Day Tour to LJUBLJANA LAKE BLED with minivan 8pax max from Zagreb

4. Ljubljana and Bled Lake - small group - day tour from Zagreb

5. Private Wine Tasting Tour from Zagreb

6. Ljubljana with Funicular, Castle and Lake Bled from Zagreb

7. Plitvice Lakes & Rastoke small-group, w/ ticket (guaranteed dep.)

8. Discover FairyTale Croatia: Castles of Northern Croatia Private Trip from Zagreb

9. Plitvice Lakes guided Tour from Zagreb

10. Plitvice Lakes and Rastoke Private Day Tour from Zagreb

11. Ljubljana Full Day Small Group Tour from Zagreb

12. Highlights of Istria Full-Day Photo Tour from Zagreb

13. Opatija, Rijeka, Trsat tour from Zagreb

14. The Best of Slovenia, Bled lake, Postojna cave and Ljubljana

15. Magical Lake Bled and Ljubljana Private Tour from Zagreb

16. Private eclectic experience of Rastoke and Plitvice Lakes National Park

17. Grand SLOVENIA: Ljubljana + Lake Bled + Postojna Cave - Day Tour

18. Varazdin Baroque Town & Trakoscan Castle, Small Group from Zagreb

19. Plitvice Lakes Private Sightseeing Tour from Zagreb with Transfer

20. Ljubljana and Lake Bled - private tour from Zagreb

21. Postojna Cave & Predjama Castle with Tickets and Ljubljana

22. Private Tour: Ljubljana and Lake Bled Day Trip from Zagreb

23. Private Trip to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb with ticket included

24. Day trip to Nin and Zadar

25. Plitvice Lakes and Rastoke Private Day Tour from Zagreb

26. Plitvice Lakes Day Tour – Group Tour

27. Slovenia's highlights: Bled lake and Ljubljana Full-Day Private Tour from Zagreb

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29. Discover picturesque surroundings of Zagreb

30. Plitvice Lakes and Rastoke Tour from Zagreb

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• Plitvice lakes and Rastoke day trip from Zagreb (guaranteed dep.)
• Day Tour to LJUBLJANA LAKE BLED with minivan 8pax max from Zagreb
• Ljubljana and Bled Lake - small group - day tour from Zagreb
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Easy Day Trips From Zagreb, Croatia

Published: November 16, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Gusella Jara

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Introduction

Croatia is a country of stunning beauty, with a rich history and diverse landscapes. While the capital city of Zagreb offers plenty of attractions to keep visitors entertained, exploring the surrounding areas allows for a deeper understanding of Croatia’s cultural heritage and natural wonders. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply looking for a change of scenery, Zagreb has a range of easy day trip options that are sure to delight.

From majestic national parks to charming medieval towns, there’s something for everyone within a short drive from Zagreb. These day trips offer a chance to experience different facets of Croatia’s charm and take a break from the bustling urban environment. Whether you’re interested in exploring pristine natural landscapes, delving into history and cultural heritage, or simply enjoying the atmosphere of picturesque towns, the options are endless.

In this article, we’ll highlight some of the best day trips from Zagreb, Croatia, showcasing the diverse range of experiences available. From breathtaking waterfalls and enchanting castles to fascinating museums and traditional villages, these destinations will leave you with memories to treasure. So pack your bags, embark on a journey of discovery, and get ready to indulge in the beauty and charm of the surrounding areas of Zagreb.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Located about two hours away from Zagreb, Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of Croatia’s most iconic natural wonders. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its breathtaking beauty and unique features. With a network of cascading lakes and waterfalls, it’s a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.

The park boasts a series of 16 terraced lakes that are interconnected by a series of stunning waterfalls, creating a mesmerizing display of cascades and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Boardwalks and hiking trails wind their way through the park, allowing visitors to explore the different sections and marvel at the natural beauty of the surroundings.

One of the highlights of a visit to Plitvice Lakes National Park is a boat ride across Lake Kozjak, the largest lake in the park, offering a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape. The park is also home to diverse wildlife, including brown bears, wolves, and numerous species of birds, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.

Whether you choose to take a leisurely stroll along the wooden pathways or embark on a longer hiking adventure to explore the upper lakes, Plitvice Lakes National Park is sure to leave you in awe of its natural beauty. Don’t forget to bring your camera, as photo opportunities are abundant at every turn.

It’s important to note that the park can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. To avoid the crowds and ensure a more peaceful experience, it’s recommended to arrive early in the morning or visit during the quieter months of spring or autumn.

Just a short drive from Zagreb, the picturesque town of Samobor offers a delightful escape from the bustling city. Known for its charming medieval architecture and idyllic setting, it’s no wonder that Samobor is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.

The town’s main attraction is its charming Old Town, where cobblestone streets are lined with colorful buildings and quaint cafes. Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow streets, explore the local shops, and admire the impressive facades of historic buildings such as the Samobor Castle and the Church of Saint Anastasia.

One of the must-try delicacies in Samobor is the famous “kremšnita,” a delicious custard-filled pastry. Head to the main square, known as Trg Kralja Tomislava, and you’ll find several pastry shops offering this delectable treat. Enjoy it with a cup of coffee or a refreshing drink while soaking up the lively atmosphere of the square.

For those seeking outdoor activities, the nearby Samobor Hills provide the perfect setting for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. The trails offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including glimpses of the nearby Slovenian hills.

Samobor is also known for its annual events and festivals, such as the Samobor Carnival and the Samobor Film Music Festival. These events showcase the town’s vibrant cultural scene and provide an opportunity to experience the local traditions and hospitality.

Whether you’re exploring the charming streets, indulging in the local cuisine, or immersing yourself in the natural surroundings, a day trip to Samobor is a delightful way to experience the authentic and tranquil side of Croatia, just a short distance from Zagreb.

Trakošćan Castle

Nestled amidst lush green hills and overlooking a serene lake, Trakošćan Castle is a captivating medieval fortress located approximately an hour and a half drive from Zagreb. As one of Croatia’s most well-preserved castles, it offers a glimpse into the country’s rich history and architectural heritage.

The castle, which dates back to the 13th century, is surrounded by a beautifully landscaped park, creating a picturesque setting that feels straight out of a fairy tale. As you approach the castle, you’ll be enchanted by its stunning towers, red-roofed turrets, and imposing stone walls.

Inside, you can explore the castle’s various rooms, which have been transformed into a museum showcasing the noble lifestyle of the past. Admire the opulent furniture, art collections, and historical artifacts that provide a glimpse into the castle’s rich past.

After exploring the castle, take a leisurely walk around the lake and through the surrounding park. The lush gardens will transport you to a peaceful oasis, and you’ll have ample opportunities to capture beautiful photos of the castle against the backdrop of nature.

If you’re feeling peckish, make sure to try some local delicacies at the nearby restaurants and cafes. Indulge in traditional Croatian cuisine while enjoying the panoramic views of the castle and the surrounding countryside.

Trakošćan Castle is not just a historical gem, but also a venue for various cultural events throughout the year. From art exhibitions to outdoor concerts and medieval fairs, there’s always something happening that adds to the castle’s vibrant atmosphere.

A visit to Trakošćan Castle is like stepping back in time to a world of knights and noble families. With its enchanting architecture, stunning surroundings, and rich history, this day trip from Zagreb is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Located approximately an hour’s drive from Zagreb, Varazdin is a charming baroque town that offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and architectural beauty. Known as the “Little Vienna” of Croatia, Varazdin is a true gem that should not be missed during your visit to the country.

The town’s main attraction is its well-preserved old town, filled with cobblestone streets, picturesque squares, and pastel-colored buildings. Stroll through the streets and admire the baroque and rococo architecture that dates back to the 17th and 18th centuries. Don’t miss the stunning Varazdin Castle, which is now home to the City Museum and showcases a collection of art and historical artifacts.

Varazdin is also known for its vibrant music scene and is host to the annual Varazdin Baroque Evenings, a prestigious music festival that attracts renowned performers from around the world. If you’re fortunate enough to visit during this time, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy enchanting concerts in beautiful historic venues.

For those interested in history, a visit to the Varazdin Cemetery is a must. This monumental cemetery is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe, featuring elaborate tombstones, mausoleums, and sculptural art. Take a peaceful stroll through the cemetery and appreciate the artistic and historical significance of this unique site.

Varazdin is also home to a multitude of charming cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops. Take a break and indulge in local cuisine, sip a cup of coffee, or browse through artisanal crafts and souvenirs. The town’s vibrant atmosphere and friendly locals will make your visit all the more memorable.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, culture lover, or simply seeking a change of scenery, Varazdin offers a delightful day trip from Zagreb. Immerse yourself in the town’s rich heritage, soak up its charming atmosphere, and take in the beauty of its baroque architecture – you won’t be disappointed.

Medvednica Nature Park

If you’re craving a dose of nature and outdoor adventure, a day trip to Medvednica Nature Park is the perfect choice. Located just a short drive from Zagreb, this expansive park offers a sanctuary of natural beauty and recreational activities.

The centerpiece of Medvednica Nature Park is Medvednica Mountain, which provides a stunning backdrop and plenty of opportunities for outdoor exploration. Hiking enthusiasts will be delighted with the numerous trails that crisscross the park. From leisurely walks to challenging treks, there’s a trail for every skill level. As you ascend, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and the city of Zagreb below.

The park is also home to a variety of flora and fauna, including deer, foxes, and even rare species such as the Eurasian lynx. Birdwatchers will have the chance to spot over a hundred different bird species, making Medvednica Nature Park a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

For those looking for a more adrenaline-fueled experience, Medvednica offers opportunities for mountain biking, rock climbing, and even skiing during the winter months. The mountain boasts several ski slopes, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

Don’t miss the chance to visit Medvedgrad, a medieval fortress perched on a hillside within the park. This well-preserved castle offers a glimpse into Croatia’s history and provides panoramic views of the surrounding area.

After a day of adventure, immerse yourself in the tranquility of Medvednica Nature Park by relaxing in one of the picnic areas or enjoying a meal at one of the cozy mountain lodges. Savor traditional Croatian cuisine while admiring the scenic surroundings.

Medvednica Nature Park is a haven of natural beauty and outdoor activities, offering a refreshing escape from the urban bustle of Zagreb. Whether you’re seeking an active adventure in the great outdoors or simply a peaceful retreat in nature, a day trip to Medvednica is a must-do during your stay in Croatia.

Veliki Tabor Castle

Situated in the picturesque Zagorje region, Veliki Tabor Castle is a magnificent fortress that transports visitors back in time. This medieval castle, located about an hour’s drive from Zagreb, is renowned for its historical significance, impressive architecture, and captivating legends.

As you approach the castle, you’ll be greeted by its towering walls, crenelated towers, and a drawbridge that sets the scene for a truly magical experience. Stepping inside, you’ll discover a plethora of well-preserved rooms that showcase the castle’s rich history and heritage. Admire the antique furniture, intricate tapestries, and ornate decorations that provide a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of nobility.

One of the highlights of visiting Veliki Tabor Castle is exploring its vast and beautifully landscaped grounds. The castle is surrounded by lush gardens, offering serene pathways, peaceful sitting areas, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Take a leisurely stroll and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the castle’s surroundings.

Veliki Tabor Castle is also known for its captivating legends and folklore. The most famous legend tells the tale of a tragic love story between Veronika of Desinic, the beautiful daughter of the castle’s owner, and a commoner named Friedrich. Explore the castle’s rooms and learn about the mysterious events that have sparked the imagination of visitors for centuries.

The castle is also home to a museum that provides insight into the regional history and cultural heritage of the area. Discover archaeological artifacts, historical documents, and learn about the castle’s role in shaping the history of Zagorje.

To complete your visit, don’t forget to stop by the castle’s charming cafe or enjoy a meal at the nearby restaurant, which boasts panoramic views of the surroundings. Indulge in traditional Croatian delicacies while savoring the enchanting atmosphere of this remarkable castle.

Veliki Tabor Castle offers a unique and memorable day trip experience from Zagreb. Whether you’re fascinated by history, intrigued by legends, or simply appreciate stunning architecture and breathtaking views, this castle is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Krapina Neanderthal Museum

Step back in time and explore the fascinating world of our ancient ancestors at the Krapina Neanderthal Museum. Located approximately an hour’s drive from Zagreb, this museum offers a captivating journey into the prehistoric era and provides valuable insights into the lives of Neanderthals.

The museum is situated near the site of one of the most significant Neanderthal discoveries in the world – the Krapina Neanderthal site. It showcases the remains of Neanderthals discovered in the area, offering a unique opportunity to learn about their physical characteristics, tools, and way of life.

The museum boasts a modern and interactive exhibition that engages visitors of all ages. Explore the various displays, interactive exhibits, and multimedia presentations that bring the Neanderthal era to life. Learn about their hunting techniques, cultural practices, and the importance of this species in the study of human evolution.

One of the highlights of the museum is a life-sized reconstruction of a Neanderthal camp, providing a realistic depiction of their living environment. Walk through the camp and imagine what life was like for these ancient humans as you observe their tools, hear their stories, and see the remnants of their daily activities.

The museum also features a stunning collection of prehistoric artifacts, including bone tools, pottery, and stone implements. These artifacts provide additional insights into the daily lives and artistic expressions of our Neanderthal ancestors.

Aside from the exhibitions, the museum offers educational programs, workshops, and guided tours, making it an ideal destination for families, students, and anyone interested in our human origins.

The Krapina Neanderthal Museum offers a unique and immersive experience, allowing visitors to connect with the distant past and gain a greater understanding of our human lineage. It is truly a journey that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for our evolutionary history.

Ethno Village Kumrovec

Step into a bygone era and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Croatia at the Ethno Village Kumrovec. Located about an hour’s drive from Zagreb, this unique open-air museum offers a glimpse into traditional Croatian village life from the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Nestled amidst rolling hills and picturesque landscapes, the village consists of charming restored houses, barns, and other traditional buildings. As you wander through the village, you’ll have the opportunity to explore various exhibits and learn about the customs, traditions, and everyday life of the rural communities of that era.

The main attraction of the village is the birthplace of Josip Broz Tito, the former president of Yugoslavia. The house has been converted into a museum that showcases the life and achievements of this prominent political leader.

Take a leisurely walk through the cobbled streets and visit the traditional workshops and artisanal shops, where skilled craftsmen demonstrate traditional crafts such as pottery, weaving, and woodworking. You can even try your hand at some of these crafts under their guidance.

The Ethno Village Kumrovec hosts various cultural events throughout the year, providing visitors with an opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the traditions of the past. These events include traditional folk dances, music performances, and festivals that celebrate the local culture.

Don’t miss the chance to savor traditional Croatian cuisine at one of the village’s restaurants. Indulge in hearty homemade dishes and sample regional specialties made from locally sourced ingredients.

The Ethno Village Kumrovec is not just a museum, but a living testament to the vibrant history and culture of Croatia. It offers a charming and educational day trip from Zagreb, allowing visitors to connect with the traditions and customs of the past while enjoying the beautiful rural surroundings.

Marija Bistrica

Situated in the rolling hills of the Hrvatsko Zagorje region, Marija Bistrica is a small town with deep religious significance and a serene atmosphere. Just a short drive from Zagreb, this charming pilgrimage site has been attracting visitors for centuries.

The heart of Marija Bistrica is the Shrine of Our Lady of Bistrica, a renowned Marian pilgrimage site and one of the most important religious destinations in Croatia. The shrine is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and has been a place of devotion and spiritual solace for generations. Pilgrims come from far and wide to pay their respects and seek blessings at the shrine.

The shrine itself is a beautiful Baroque church, adorned with intricately carved altars and religious artworks. Inside, you’ll find a sacred painting of the Virgin Mary, revered for its alleged healing powers. The atmosphere within the church is one of tranquility and reverence, providing a unique space for reflection and prayer.

Surrounding the church, you’ll discover a peaceful park where visitors can stroll among lush greenery, beautiful flowers, and calming fountains. This serene environment invites contemplation and relaxation, offering a respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Marija Bistrica also hosts a vibrant open-air market, where you can find an array of traditional crafts, religious artifacts, and local delicacies. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste the famous “kajkavski štrukli,” a traditional Croatian pastry filled with cheese or other savory fillings.

For those interested in the history and heritage of the region, the Museum of Sacred Art is worth a visit. The museum displays a collection of religious artifacts, including paintings, sculptures, and precious objects, providing insight into the spiritual and artistic traditions of the area.

Whether you’re a pilgrim seeking spiritual solace, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, Marija Bistrica offers a serene and memorable day trip from Zagreb. Experience the profound atmosphere of the shrine, soak in the beauty of the surrounding nature, and embrace the rich religious history and traditions of Croatia.

Zaprešić

Just a short distance from Zagreb, the charming town of Zaprešić offers a delightful day trip option for those looking to explore Croatia’s cultural heritage and enjoy a relaxing escape. With its historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and charming atmosphere, Zaprešić is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Start your journey in the town center, where you’ll find the enchanting Zrinski Castle. This 17th-century fortress is a testament to the town’s rich history and serves as a cultural center today. Explore the castle’s interior, which houses an art gallery and museum, showcasing exhibitions of contemporary and historical artworks.

Another highlight of Zaprešić is the beautiful Maksimir Park, a vast green oasis that provides a peaceful retreat. Enjoy a leisurely stroll or a picnic amidst lush gardens and serene lakes. The park is also home to the renowned Vocational Art School, which hosts various cultural and artistic events throughout the year.

Zaprešić is also known for its lively traditional events and festivals. The annual Zaprešić Folklore Festival celebrates the region’s rich folklore and features colorful traditional costumes, music, and dances. It’s a vibrant and joyous celebration that allows visitors to experience the authentic culture of Croatia.

For those looking to indulge in some retail therapy, the town offers excellent shopping opportunities. Explore local boutiques, shops, and craft stores, where you can find unique souvenirs, traditional handicrafts, and locally made products.

When it comes to cuisine, Zaprešić boasts a variety of restaurants and cafes where you can sample delicious Croatian dishes. From hearty stews and grilled meats to sweet treats like “štrukli,” a traditional pastry, your culinary exploration in Zaprešić will be a delight.

Whether you’re exploring the historical sites, enjoying the natural beauty of Maksimir Park, or immersing yourself in the local culture, a day trip to Zaprešić promises a fulfilling and memorable experience. Discover the hidden treasures of this charming town just a short distance from Zagreb and create memories to cherish.

Croatia is a country that offers a multitude of experiences, and by venturing beyond the capital city of Zagreb, you can discover an array of remarkable day trip destinations. From natural wonders like Plitvice Lakes National Park and Medvednica Nature Park to captivating historical sites like Trakošćan Castle and Veliki Tabor Castle, each destination has its own unique charm and allure.

Exploring the surrounding areas of Zagreb allows you to delve deeper into Croatia’s rich history, experience its diverse landscapes, and appreciate its cultural heritage. Whether you prefer to hike through pristine forests, unravel ancient legends, or indulge in traditional cuisine, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Each day trip offers a chance to escape the urban hustle and bustle and reconnect with nature, history, and the authentic Croatian way of life. Whether you’re drawn to the magnificent waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes or the enchanting medieval towns like Samobor and Varazdin, these day trips provide a well-rounded experience that will leave you with lasting memories.

As you venture beyond Zagreb, don’t forget to embrace the local culture and traditions, whether it’s by tasting traditional delicacies, participating in cultural events, or interacting with locals. The warmth and hospitality of the Croatian people will enhance your journey and make it all the more memorable.

So, go ahead and plan your day trips from Zagreb, immersing yourself in the beauty, history, and charm of these captivating destinations. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply looking to broaden your horizons, Croatia’s day trips from Zagreb are sure to captivate your heart and leave you with a deep appreciation for this enchanting country.

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Easy Day Trips from Zagreb, Croatia

June 19, 2017.

Please note that this post may contain affiliate links and any sales made through such links will reward me a small commission – at no extra cost for you.

Not only is Zagreb an amazing city to visit while traveling in Croatia, but there are so many fun, easy day trips from Zagreb! Two of my personal favorites include  Plitvice Lakes National Park and the charming city of Ljubljana, Slovenia.

Day Trips from Zagreb – Ljubljana

Slovenia has been on the top of my travel list for quite some time, unfortunately it is not the easiest country to get to from the US. Although I was still not fortunate enough to have the proper amount of time to really explore everything that Slovenia has to offer, on a recent trip to Croatia I managed to sneak in a quick day trips from Zagreb to the country’s capital, Ljubljana.

1. Take the train

So the biggest mistake that we made when planning our day trip to Ljubljana from Zagreb was taking the bus. Having purchased a one way bus ticket for $13, this seemed like a much more affordable option when compared to the $40 train tickets that we were seeing online. When what should have been an easy 2.5 hour bus ride turned into a more grueling 4 hour ride, due to a lengthy border crossing process and various construction roadblocks, we decided to check the train options for our return trip to Zagreb. We were able to buy a same day train ticket back to Zagreb for only $10. Slightly cheaper than the bus, the train provided a much more comfortable, faster, and extremely scenic ride back to Croatia along the water.

2. Don’t forget your passport

I know that this seems obvious, but after reminding my friend countless times to pack hers I actually forgot my own! Luckily the bus driver checked our passports before boarding the bus, however most companies in Croatia will not check until you reach the border!

3. Don’t make a strict plan for the day

What I loved most about Ljubljana was the slow, lazy vibe that encompassed the city. Ljubljana has often been named as one of the most livable cities in Europe, and I can definitely understand why! The city itself is quite small so you have time to wander and explore. Take the time to eat gelato (check out Cacao ) and sip refreshing cocktails by the river. We found a cozy cafe to sit and soak up the sun, while treating ourselves to a delicious cheese plate and elderflower gin cocktails of course! We did hike up to the castle (we were lazy and rode the funicular back down) in order to get some aerial views of the city. While the views were pretty nice, I definitely wouldn’t consider this to be a must-see, despite it’s spot at Ljubljana’s top attraction.

4. Eat at Ribe & Vino (Stari Trg 28, Ljubljana, Slovenia)

Our meal here was absolutely incredible. Located on a small side street, this cozy wine spot serves up fresh seafood at great prices! We opted for the shrimp tapas assortment and the grilled bass, and we were definitely not disappointed! The house wine starts at $2 a glass and makes a great accompaniment to the meal!

5. Extend your day trip

Unfortunately we only had one day to spend in this beautiful capital. If you have the time then definitely consider spending a few nights. I was sad that I didn’t get a chance to check out the converted prison cell hostel so if you happen to stay there please send me a message and let me know how it is! 🙂

Day Trips from Zagreb – Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes is easily Croatia’s most famous national park, and for a good reason as well! Plitvice has some of the clearest, bluest waters that I have ever seen! It was extremely difficult to resist jumping in for a swim! Luckily it is one of the many easy day trips from Zagreb!

Getting to the lakes is extremely easy! There are daily buses leaving from the main bus station in Zagreb. The bus journey takes approximately 2.5 hours and costs $11 each way. Tickets can be purchased directly from the main station, or ahead of time through one of the online booking sites. We took the 7:30am bus, however I would recommend taking the 5:45am bus if you can get yourself out of bed on time, because you will get a chance to see the park without the hoards of tourists.

Entrance tickets cost between $8 and $28 depending on the season. If you’re a student don’t forget your student ID , as the park offers a great discount to anyone presenting an ID!

While are a few restaurants within the park, the food options are limited to burgers and fries, so make sure to pack some of your own food for a picnic along the way!

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27 Best Things to Do in Zagreb, Croatia + 11 Easy Day Trips

Julia June 23, 2023 Croatia Leave a Comment

Check out the best things to do in Zagreb, Croatia to ensure you hit all of the hot spots during your visit!

Welcome to Zagreb, Croatia’s capital city, where history and modernity come together. While Zagreb may not grab the headlines like some of its more famous European neighbors, it has its own magic that you’ll want to explore. Choose from historical landmarks in Zagreb to delicious cuisine and unusual museums.

Perhaps best of all, Zagreb offers you the chance to discover the “real” Croatia beyond all of the more touristy spots along the coast. It’s rich in culture and full of unique experiences that deserve to be observed by visitors like you.

So let’s dive in and uncover the best places to visit in Zagreb, Croatia!

Disclosure:  Some of the links below may be affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase.

Table of Contents

Introduction to Zagreb

Oh Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. Did you know that it’s one of the youngest capital cities in Europe, gaining its status in 1991 when Croatia declared independence? That officially makes it younger than me. (Yikes!)

But don’t let that discourage you from visiting. There’s a lot of history from before it became independent and Zagreb has a welcoming and friendly atmosphere that instantly makes you feel at home as you walk through town. Not to mention it has some amazing things for you to discover.

Whether you’re into history and architecture, arts and culture, or simply want to savor some mouthwatering Croatian food, Zagreb has something for everyone. Stroll through historic neighborhoods. Indulge in delicious street food. Explore world-class museums. Unwind in beautiful parks.

Before we take a closer look at the specific Zagreb attractions you need to factor into your Croatian itinerary, here are some helpful facts about the city to prepare you for your visit to Zagreb!

Fast Facts about Visiting Zagreb

• Location: Zagreb is the capital and largest city of Croatia, located in the northwestern part of the country. It sits on the southern slopes of the Medvednica Mountain and along the banks of the Sava River.
• Size: The city of Zagreb covers ~247 square miles (641 square kilometers) with about 800,000 population. This makes it the largest city in Croatia in terms of both population and land area.
• Currency: The currency used in Zagreb, as well as throughout Croatia, is the Croatian Kuna (HRK). Major credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases.
• Language: Croatian is the official language in Zagreb, but English is commonly spoken, especially in tourist areas and by the younger population. Learning a few basic Croatian phrases can be helpful and appreciated by locals.
• Tipping: Tipping in Zagreb is customary but not mandatory. In restaurants, it’s common to leave a tip of around 10% of the bill if service is not included. In cafes and bars, rounding up or leaving small change is appreciated. Tipping taxi drivers is also customary, typically rounding up to the nearest whole amount.
• Time Zone: Zagreb operates on Central European Time (CET), which is UTC+1, and Central European Summer Time (CEST) during daylight saving time, which is UTC+2.
• Climate: Zagreb experiences distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm and sunny, while winters (December to February) can be cold with occasional snowfall. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities.

Best Things to Do in Zagreb

With all that helpful info under your belt, it’s time to check out these amazing activities in Zagreb to help you make the most of your time in Croatia!

1. Explore the Historic Upper Town

The Upper Town (Gornji Grad) is the oldest part of Zagreb, dating back to medieval times. It’s characterized by its cobblestone streets and historic buildings making it a beautiful place to start your exploration.

Key highlights in Zagreb’s Upper Town include St. Mark’s Church, with its distinctive multicolored roof, and the Lotrščak Tower , which offers panoramic views from the top. Make sure to make the climb to admire the views!

Another must visit sight in Zagreb is the Stone Gate. This religious site offers a small shring where people often light candles for good luck. You need to explore this area to immerse yourself in Zagreb’s history and charm.

To make sure you see the best of it, consider doing a walking tour of Zagreb . Your guide will not only take you to all of the highlights but also provide insight you won’t get by walking through the Upper Town on your own. Check availability for the walking tour online.

2. Visit the Zagreb Cathedral

The Zagreb Cathedral, formally known as the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, is an iconic landmark in Zagreb and one of the most significant religious buildings in Croatia. Its twin spires dominate the city skyline.

The cathedral has a rich history, having been damaged and rebuilt several times over the centuries. You can admire its stunning Gothic architecture and the interior’s intricate details.

3. Stroll through Ban Jelačić Square

Ban Jelačić Square is the central gathering place and square in Zagreb. Here you can people-watch, shop for souvenirs, or grab a coffee at one of the nearby cafes.

The square is named after Josip Jelačić , a national hero, and it’s an excellent starting point for exploring the city.

4. Go Museum-Hopping

Zagreb has an impressive array of museums that cater to all kinds of interests. The Croatian Museum of Naïve Art showcases unique and charming naive art, while the Museum of Broken Relationships displays personal mementos and stories of failed relationships. It’s definitely one of the most unusual things to do in Zagreb.

Additionally, the Archaeological Museum houses artifacts from Croatia’s rich history, and the Museum of Contemporary Art features contemporary art from both Croatian and international artists.

5. Shop at Dolac Market

Dolac Market is a lively open-air market located just above Ban Jelačić Square. It’s the perfect place to experience Zagreb’s culinary culture.

Here you can buy fresh produce, cheeses, local delicacies, and handmade crafts. It’s a great spot for foodies and those looking for authentic souvenirs.

6. Visit the Zagreb Botanical Garden

The Botanical Garden in Zagreb houses a large collection of exotic plants offering the perfect spot for a leisurely walk or a picnic in the city center. It’s an ideal place to escape the city’s hustle and bustle for a while.

7. Enjoy Jarun Lake

Jarun Lake is a popular recreational area, especially during the summer months. It’s located a bit outside the city center but is easily accessible if you have time to visit.

At Jarun Lake you can swim, rent paddleboats or kayaks, or simply relax on the lakeside beaches. There are also cafes and bars for refreshments. It’s a great place to relax for part of the day and enjoy the more local side of Zagreb.

8. Check Out Zagreb Zoo

The Zagreb Zoo is one of the best things to do in Zagreb for families and animal lovers. It features a variety of animals in well-maintained habitats and offers educational programs for children. It’s a perfect place to spend a few hours that kids will love.

9. Meander through Mirogoj Cemetery

While not always top of the list of places to visit in Zagreb, the Mirogoj Cemetery is worth a visit. It is renowned for its stunning architecture, including arcades and pavilions.

But, it’s much more than just a burial site. It’s also a beautifully landscaped park where you can take a peaceful walk and appreciate the artistry of the tombstones.

10. Take a Ride on the Funicular

The Zagreb Funicular is one of the shortest funiculars in the world. It connects the Lower Town with the Upper Town. While it’s not a major attraction in itself, it’s a fun and cheap way to get a quick view of the city and a handy mode of transportation. Check prices here.

11. Explore the Underground Tunnels in Zagreb

Remember how we mentioned Zagreb is the youngest capital city in Europe? Well, nows your time to get more context by visiting the underground tunnels of Zagreb dating back to World War II.

These tunnels show. thehistory of Croatia and Zagreb across the 20th century, encompassing World War II, nearly five decades of communist Yugoslavia, and the monumental fall of communism in Croatia during the Homeland War. The best way to visit them is to join a tour. Check availability for an underground tour of Zagreb now.

12. Try Croatian Cuisine

Croatian cuisine is a delightful blend of Mediterranean and Central European flavors. Traditional dishes like štrukli (pastry filled with cheese), grilled meats, and seafood are a must-try. Visit a local konoba or gostiona for an authentic dining experience.

13. Try Street Food

While we’re talking about food…. you won’t want to miss out on trying some delicious Croatian street food. Seek out stalls selling traditional snacks like burek (savory pastry), cevapi (grilled minced meat), and fritule (mini doughnuts).

To try the best of Croatian food, join a food tour in Zagreb. They’ll take you to the best locations to try traditional food and help you understand the local customs. Book your food tour here.

14. Attend Cultural Events

Zagreb hosts numerous cultural events throughout the year, such as the Zagreb Film Festival , INmusic Festival , and Advent in Zagreb (Christmas market).

Check the event calendar for any festivals, concerts, or exhibitions happening during your visit. If you want to ensure you catch one of them, do research before booking your trip to Zagreb.

15. Relax in a Park in Zagreb

There are a lot of green areas spread throughout Zagreb. If you’re looking for a place to relax, head to Maksimir Park . It’s one of the oldest public parks in Europe and offers a serene escape from the city.

Another great place to escape is Bundek Park. It offers a picturesque lake, perfect for a picnic.

16. Shop for Souvenirs

Chances are, you’ll want to do some shopping while in Zagreb. Fortunately, there are a lot of souvenir shops in Zagreb. The two places to check out are Tkalciceva Street and Ilica Street.

Tkalciceva Street is known for its boutiques and is an ideal place to find unique souvenirs. Meanwhile Ilica Street is Zagreb’s main shopping street, offering a mix of high-end brands and local stores.

17. Observe Panoramic Views at Zagreb 360°

Head to Zagreb 360° , an observation deck on the 16th floor of the Zagreb Skyscraper at Ilica 1a in the city center. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of Zagreb and get a unique perspective on the city’s layout and landmarks.

18. Visit Maksimir Stadium

If you’re a sports enthusiast, consider catching a football (soccer) match at Maksimir Stadium. This stadium is home to Dinamo Zagreb , one of Croatia’s top football clubs. The atmosphere in the stadium during a game can be electric – even if you’re not a big football fan!

19. Experience the Advent in Zagreb

If you’re visiting Zagreb during the winter holiday season, don’t miss the Advent event. The city’s Christmas market is one of the best in Europe, with festive decorations, ice skating rinks, and a variety of seasonal treats.

If you’ve never experienced a European Christmas market, you’re really missing out! They are the epitome of charming and festive bringing the holiday spirit to life.

20. Enjoy Zagreb’s Nightlife

Zagreb has a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of bars, clubs, and music venues. While. youcan find entertainment options throughout the city, Tkalciceva Street is the most popular spot for nightlife.

21. Attend a Cultural Performance

If you’re into artistic performances, check out the program at the Croatian National Theatre or other theaters in Zagreb. Whether it’s opera, ballet, or a classical music performance, experiencing Croatian culture through the arts can be a memorable experience.

22. Take a Tram Ride

While you can walk through much of the center of Zagreb, You’ll also find that Zagreb has an efficient tram system. Taking a tram ride can be a unique way to explore the city. After all, trams are an integral part of Zagreb’s identity, and they offer an interesting perspective on daily life in the city.

23. Explore Local Neighborhoods

To truly understand Zagreb, venture beyond the city center to explore some of the city’s unique neighborhoods. Each has its own character and charm.

For example, the neighborhood of Medvednica offers hiking opportunities, while the residential area of Trešnjevka has a very local and authentic Croatian atmosphere.

24. Learn About Nikola Tesla

Visit the Nikola Tesla Technical Museum to learn about the life and work of the famous inventor Nikola Tesla. It’s an interesting museum with interactive exhibits and Tesla’s inventions on display.

25. Relax in Thermal Spas

If you need some relaxation or simply want to pamper yourself, Zagreb is near several thermal spas and wellness centers.

The two I recommend you check out are Terme Tuhelj at the Terme Tuhelj Hotel Well and Terme Jezerčica at Hotel Terme Jezercica . They are popular choices for a day or two of pampering and rejuvenation.

26. Admire Street Art

Zagreb’s street art scene has been growing over the years. As you explore, you’ll find murals and graffiti throughout the city. It adds a modern and creative dimension to Zagreb, and it’s an interesting contrast to the historic sites of the city.

27. Take a Day Trip

Zagreb is conveniently located for day trips to nearby cities and attractions. You can explore Trakošćan Castle, Plitvice Lakes National Park, or the historic town of Samobor. These destinations offer a glimpse of Croatia’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. We’ll dive deeper into the top day trips from Zagreb below.

Best Day Trips from Zagreb

If you have more time in Zagreb, you can take a day trip – or two or three! Due to its location, Zagreb serves as a great base for exploring the beauty of Croatia.

There are several fantastic day trip destinations you can reach from the capital. Here are some of the best day trips from Zagreb.

1. Plitvice Lakes National Park

When you’re in Zagreb, you’ve got to check out Plitvice Lakes National Park . It’s about two hours away by car, and it’s a natural wonderland. Think crystal-clear lakes that spill into each other, surrounded by lush forests and cascading waterfalls.

You can explore on wooden walkways and hiking trails, and trust me, every view is a postcard moment. Make sure to get there early to avoid the crowds. It’s worth it. Check out this amazing small group tour to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb.

Learn all about visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park .

2. Ljubljana and Lake Bled in Slovenia

Take an unforgettable day trip from Zagreb to Ljubljana and Lake Bled in neighboring Slovenia.

In Ljubljana , the charming capital, you’ll explore the picturesque old town, characterized by colorful buildings and bustling markets. Don’t miss the iconic Triple Bridge and the majestic Ljubljana Castle perched on a hill.

Then head to Lake Bled , known for its crystal-clear waters and the fairytale-like Bled Island in the middle. You can take a traditional Pletna boat to the island and ring the wishing bell. With its beautiful scenery and rich history, this is one of the best day trips from Zagreb.

Book this tour and let the logistics be handled for you.

3. Trakošćan Castle

Trakošćan Castle is about an hour and a half away from Zagreb. It’s one of those castles that looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale, sitting atop a hill overlooking a serene lake.

You can explore the inside, check out the antique treasures, and then take a leisurely walk around the 2eautiful lake. Trust me, it’s one of the best side trips from Zagreb. Check out this awesome tour to Trakoscan Castle.

4. Varaždin

Another quick trip from Zagreb is Varaždinb, just over an hour away. It’s got a charming old town with colorful buildings that makes you feel like you’re in a storybook. You can wander around, maybe pop into a museum or two, and, of course, grab a coffee at one of the many cafes.

To sweeten the deal, you can do a tour that includes both Varazdin and Trakoscan Castle. Learn more about this tour option.

If you want a quick getaway, Samobor is just a 30-minute drive from Zagreb. It’s a small town with a lot of character. The old town center is adorable, and it’s the best place to try kremšnita, a famous cream cake. You can spend a leisurely day exploring and savoring the relaxed vibes.

If you don’t have your own transportation, you can easily get to Samobor from Zagreb on a half day tour. Check out this Samobor tour.

6. Kumrovec

Kumrovec is an hour and a half drive from Zagreb and is like stepping back in time. It’s basically a living history museum. At the this open-air museum, known as “Staro Selo,” you can wander through authentic thatched-roof cottages, each offering a window into a different aspect of rural life in days gone by.

From traditional crafts to period furnishings, Kumrovec preserves the heritage and culture of Croatia’s past. Stepping into Kumrovec is like time traveling, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a deeper understanding of Croatian traditions and history.

Want to visit Kumrovec from Zagreb but don’t have your own transportation? No worries, there are tours running to this awesome town. See the full tour details here.

7. Marija Bistrica

If you’re into religious sites, Marija Bistrica is a must visit place from Zagreb. Located just an hour away, it is home to the National Shrine of the Mother of God .

It draws pilgrims and visitors seeking spiritual reflection in Croatia. This beautiful church and its surroundings offer a place of both reverence and relaxation.

8. Medvednica Nature Park

If you’re a nature lover, you’ll enjoy Medvednica Nature Park. It’s a mountain range just north of Zagreb, and it’s great for outdoor activities, like hiking and biking. A highlight of the park is the medieval fortress of Medvedgrad, which offers panoramic views of Zagreb and the surrounding area.

The best way to visit is of course by car, but if you don’t have a car, there are some guided tours available. Book a tour to Medvednica from Zagreb.

Đakovo, Croatia is about two hours away from Zagreb. It’s famous for two remarkable features, its awe-inspiring cathedral and the majestic Lipizzaner horses. The Cathedral of St. Peter is an architectural masterpiece and a prominent symbol of the town, adorned with stunning artwork and intricate details.

Beyond its religious significance, Đakovo is renowned for its Lipizzaner Stud Farm . Here you’ll find graceful white horses are bred and trained. During your visit you can witness horse shows and get a glimpse into the equestrian heritage of Croatia.

10. Karlovac

Less than an hour’s drive away, Karlovac has a star-shaped fortress and beautiful riverside spots. This historic town sits by the confluence of four rivers – Kupa, Korana, Mrežnica, and Dobra, creating a beautiful setting.

Send a few hours exploring the well-preserved old town with its cobbled streets and squares, showcasing a blend of architectural styles. It’s a great side trip from Zagreb to enjoy a mix of history and nature.

Ozalj is a picturesque town in Croatia just an hour and a half drive from Zagreb. It’s a town set between the Kupa and Dobra rivers and features a well-preserved medieval castle, Ozalj Castle.

This historic town offers a blend of rich heritage and natural beauty, making it a great destination for history enthusiasts and those seeking a riverside escape.

FAQs about Visiting Zagreb

When planning a trip to Zagreb, you definitely have lots of questions you need to answer. Or at least I know I did! Here are some of the common questions about the best things to do in Zagreb, along with other useful info.

Covered in depth above, some must-see spots in Zagreb include the historic Upper Town, Zagreb Cathedral, Ban Jelačić Square, and the Dolac Market. These places give you a great feel for the city’s history and culture.

Two to three days are usually enough to explore the main attractions in Zagreb comfortably. But if you want to dive deeper or take day trips, consider staying longer.

Spring and early autumn are lovely with milder weather. Summer is also popular, but it can get pretty hot. Winter is best if you want to experience the city’s festive Christmas markets.

The city center around Ban Jelačić Square is a top choice. Other nice areas include Tkalciceva Street, Ilica Street, and the quiet charm of the Upper Town. Search hotels in Zagreb on Booking.com.

You can visit the Zagreb Zoo, Jarun Lake for swimming and water sports, or take a funicular ride to the Upper Town. Kids also enjoy the Museum of Illusions and the Zagreb 80’s Museum .

Look for local festivals and events happening during your visit. The Advent in Zagreb Christmas market is a favorite, as are music festivals, like INmusic.

Zagreb has a good tram and bus system. You can buy tickets at kiosks or on trams. Just make sure to validate your ticket on board.

You might want to explore the Zagreb Street Art scene, visit the quirky Museum of Broken Relationships, or relax in the peaceful Botanical Garden.

Yes, Zagreb is generally safe for tourists. Just be cautious with your belongings in crowded areas, like any other city. Check out safety tips for traveling here.

Tkalciceva Street and Ilica Street are good for shopping. Don’t forget to check out the Dolac Market for local produce and souvenirs.

Head to Tkalciceva Street and its bars, or explore some of the city’s clubs and live music venues. Zagreb’s nightlife has something for everyone.

It depends on your nationality. Many travelers from countries in the EU don’t need a visa, but it’s always a good idea to check the latest requirements with your embassy or consulate. You can also find out quickly at iVisa.

To save money, consider using public transportation, eating at local restaurants, and looking for budget-friendly accommodations. Also, some museums offer free admission on specific days or times. Find more budget travel tips here .

Explore More of Croatia

Armed with the best things to do in Zagreb and all of the most interesting day trips from Zagreb, you’re ready to set out on your adventure to this amazing European capital.

But exploring Croatia doesn’t end here. In fact, it’s just the beginning. Here are some helpful resources to help you plan more of your Croatian itinerary.

• 8 Best Places to Visit in Croatia: Can’t Miss Cities & National Parks
• The Ultimate Travel Guide for Visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park
• 24 Incredible Things to Do in Dubrovnik, Croatia
• 22 Best Things to Do in Split, Croatia
• The Ultimate Guide to the Sea Organ in Zadar, Croatia
• How to Take a Magical Day Trip to Krka National Park

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