Start your first morning in Zagreb with a leisurely breakfast at Dolac Market, sampling fresh pastries and local cheeses while watching vendors set up; then stroll up to Tkalčićeva Street for a coffee at a terrace café and people-watching among colorful townhouses. Afterward explore the leafy slopes of Maksimir Park for a gentle introduction to Croatian greenspace-rent a paddleboat on the small lakes or visit the park's peaceful walking paths to recover from travel before collecting your rental or planning transfers for the road ahead.
After settling your bags, wander through Ban Jelačić Square to feel the city's pulse, then climb the short stone staircases to the atmospheric Upper Town (Gornji Grad) to admire the colorful roof of St. Mark's Church and the panoramic views over Zagreb. Finish the afternoon with a relaxed tram ride to Zrinjevac Park for a bench-side coffee and a light snack at a nearby cafe, helping you recover from travel and plan whether to pick up a rental or arrange onward public transport for your road-trip start.
After you arrive and drop bags, enjoy a relaxed dinner in the atmospheric cobbled lanes around Tkalčićeva Street's quieter side streets with a table at a local bistro serving grilled local meats and seasonal salads; follow it with a craft beer or cocktail at the intimate bar Craft Room (or similar nearby gastropub). Finish the night with a peaceful post-meal walk along the illuminated promenades of Mirogoj Cemetery's outer arc (reachable by short taxi ride) or, if you prefer something livelier, catch live music at Medika to soak up Zagreb's nocturnal vibe before turning in and preparing for the early start toward Plitvice tomorrow.
Begin the day with a hearty breakfast at Bistro Tripolitania near the main square, then wander through the leafy promenades of Zrinjevac Park to admire its seasonal flowerbeds and music kiosks. After a quick visit to the interactive exhibits at the Museum of Broken Relationships, collect luggage and catch a mid-morning shuttle or private transfer from the nearby Zagreb Bus Station (Autobusni Kolodvor) toward Plitvice-stopping en route for coffee in the historic suburb of Jarun if you prefer a lake-side pause before the drive into the national park.
Wander the creative lanes of Kaptol Square and browse the artisan stalls and bookshops around Petar Preradović Square (Cvjetni plac), stopping for a pastry and espresso at a sunny café terrace; then take a short funicular ride up to Lotrščak Tower to hear the noon cannon and enjoy the city panorama. Mid-afternoon, collect your luggage and catch the direct bus from Zagreb Bus Station (Autobusni Kolodvor) or pick up your rental car-either option will set you on the scenic 2-2.5 hour drive toward Plitvice Lakes National Park, with a recommended coffee break in the riverside town of Karlovac en route to stretch legs before arriving at your accommodation near the park.
After arriving near Plitvice and checking in, enjoy a mellow evening walk along the lower park perimeter trail to catch the golden light on the cascades and linger at Veliki Slap (Big Waterfall) viewpoint before crowds thin. Finish with a rustic dinner at Lička Kuća or a lakeside konoba, sampling hearty regional dishes like peka and štrukli, then relax with a nightcap on the terrace watching the forested hills fade into twilight.
Wake early to beat the crowds and take the wooden boardwalks through Gornja Jezera (Upper Lakes), pausing at the panoramic viewpoint above Prošćansko Lake to watch morning mist lift from the cascades; afterwards join the park electric boat across Kozjak Lake for a quiet water-level view of the falls. Before leaving the park, hike the shorter loop to Šupljara viewpoint and enjoy a picnic of local cheeses and fresh bread by the water, then collect your bags and set off on the scenic 1.5-2 hour drive toward Zadar with a planned coffee stop in the riverside village of Rakovica to stretch your legs.
After your morning loop, drive to the quieter Entrance 1 area and take the scenic footpaths toward the lesser-known cascades, pausing to photograph the emerald pools at the Lower Lakes viewpoints and to rest at the park café overlooking the falls. Mid-afternoon, head out toward Zadar with a relaxed stop in Nin to stretch your legs on the shallow Nin Lagoon beach, wander the small medieval streets and visit the quaint Church of the Holy Cross (the smallest cathedral in the world) before continuing to Zadar for evening arrival.
After arriving in Zadar, unwind with a sunset stroll along Riva (Zadar Waterfront Promenade), stopping to watch the unique light installation of the Greeting to the Sun come alive and listen to the ethereal tones of the Sea Organ as waves play the pipes. Follow this with dinner in the atmospheric Old Town at Konoba Stomorica (or another konoba nearby) to taste grilled Adriatic fish and local Paški cheese, then enjoy an after-dinner drink on a rooftop terrace overlooking Five Wells Square before turning in for the night.
Leave Zadar early and take the scenic coastal route, stopping first in Paklenica National Park for a short morning hike among limestone canyons and to spot climbers on the vertical walls before returning to the road. Continue south with a breezy coffee stop in the seaside village of Starigrad-Paklenica, then catch the mid-morning ferry from Prizna ferry port across the channel (or drive the Pelješac bridge alternative) to shorten the route and enjoy Adriatic views en route to Split.
After the morning coastal highlights, pull off the main road for a relaxed lunch in the historic fishing village of Maslenica, sampling freshly grilled sardines at a waterfront konoba before continuing south; then cruise the scenic stretch toward Pag Bridge and pause at the viewpoint above the tidal channel for dramatic Adriatic photography. Mid-afternoon, take a short detour inland to explore the salt pans and windmill landscape around Stara Novalja, enjoy a café espresso with sea views, and decide whether to catch the mid-afternoon ferry from Prizna (for a shorter sea leg) or continue the coastal drive toward Split via the Pelješac/bridge route.
Arrive in Split in time for golden-hour views from Marjan Hill-take the short uphill walk or a local bus to the south lookout, then linger on the pine-scented paths as the city and harbor glow. Descend into the old town for dinner at a seaside konoba on Matejuška Harbor, sampling fresh calamari and local white wine, then enjoy an evening passeggiata along the lively Riva promenade with gelato in hand before turning in or catching a late-night ferry connection if you choose to island-hop next.
Begin with a relaxed seaside breakfast at Bačvice Beach-sip coffee on the promenade while watching locals play picigin in the shallow surf-then stroll to the nearby Veli Varos neighborhood to admire its stone houses and fragrant citrus trees. From there, head up the shaded paths of Marjan Park Forest for a short morning hike to the Telegrin Viewpoint, pause at a cliffside café for panoramic harbor views, and descend in time to catch a mid-morning catamaran from Split Ferry Port for a quick hop to Čiovo Island or Šolta if you want a half-day beach break before returning to explore the old town in the afternoon.
After returning from the island hop, wander the winding lanes of the Old Town to explore Peristyle Square and climb the narrow stairs of Diocletian's Cellars for a cool, atmospheric look at Roman foundations; stop at a konoba near Papalićeva Palace for lunch of slow-cooked lamb and a glass of local Plavac Mali. Later, stroll along the waterfront toward the small fishing harbor of Matejuška, rent a pair of kayaks to paddle around the harbor mouth and past the sunlit city walls, then finish the afternoon with gelato on the seaside terrace of Sustipan Park, watching the light soften over the Adriatic before evening plans.
As dusk falls, wander down to Riva's waterfront cafés to watch fishermen bring in the day's catch, then move to the atmospheric stone alleys around Pjaca (People's Square) for aperitivo at a terrace bar where locals mingle. For a memorable nightcap, climb the steps to Sustipan Park's clifftop viewpoint to catch the sunset over the Adriatic, then dine at a nearby konoba serving slow-roasted seafood under lanterns before enjoying live Dalmatian klapa music at a small bar near Prokurative.
Leave Split early and drive inland, pausing for a roadside coffee and burek in the historic town of Imotski before crossing the border; the short stop at Blue Lake (Crveno Jezero/Modro Jezero) offers a dramatic cliffside viewpoint to stretch your legs. Arrive in Mostar mid-morning to explore the winding streets around Kujundžiluk Bazaar, browse hand-woven carpets and copperware, then head to the riverbanks to watch traditional divers practice at the Old Bridge diving platforms while sampling a strong Bosnian coffee at a café overlooking the Neretva.
After a riverside lunch, explore the Ottoman-era lanes up toward Koski Mehmed-Pasha Mosque and climb its minaret for a sweeping panorama of the city and the emerald Neretva below; linger afterward over a sweet baklava and strong Bosnian coffee at a shaded café on the mosque square. From there, wander to the atmospheric Muslibegović House to see preserved interior rooms and rooftop views, then cross to the newer riverbank to relax in the leafy gardens of Dervish House (Tubačić garden) before finishing the afternoon with a short walk to the peaceful riverside park beside the Crooked Bridge (Kriva Cuprija) for golden-hour photos.
As evening falls, wander to the riverbank terraces around Taj Mahal Restaurant (or a similar local konoba) for a candlelit dinner of slow-cooked Ćevapi and smoked trout while watching the Old Bridge glow at dusk; follow with a stroll across the illuminated footbridge to enjoy the reflected lights on the Neretva. Later, soak up Mostar's relaxed nightlife with a stop at Sloga Beer Garden or a small live-music venue along the Rijeka Street promenade, sampling locally brewed beer or a rakija before returning to your guesthouse for a peaceful night.
Leave Mostar after an early coffee and head first to the hilltop hamlet of Počitelj to wander its Ottoman-era stone streets, climb to the Hadži-Alija's Tower for sweeping views of the Neretva valley, and browse the small workshops selling copperware and handcrafts. From there drive a short stretch to the tranquil riverside picnic area at Kravice Falls, where you can swim in the emerald plunge pools, follow the cliff-top footpath for panoramic cascade views, and rent a small wooden boat or relax beneath chestnut trees before continuing west toward the Croatian border.
Drive from Kravice toward the Dalmatian coast and pause in Čapljina to stroll the shaded riverside promenade and visit the small local market for fresh figs and artisan cheeses; afterward, stop at the riverside monastery complex of Rizvančići (or similar nearby Orthodox/Franciscan sites) to admire centuries-old frescoes and soak in quieter religious heritage away from tourist routes. Continue with a scenic coastal detour to Metković where you can board a short riverboat cruise on the Neretva Delta to spot migratory birds and taste locally smoked river fish at a waterfront konoba before crossing back into Croatia toward Šibenik/Trogir for the evening.
As dusk falls, detour into the coastal town of Šibenik to stroll the lantern-lit quay and savor seafood tapas at the waterfront Konoba Nostalgija, then climb the stone steps to the illuminated ramparts of St. Michael's Fortress for sweeping sunset views over the channel. If you prefer a quieter evening, continue to Trogir's UNESCO old town to wander its maze of alleys, enjoy a riverside dinner at Restaurant Don Dino beneath braided bougainvillea, and finish with gelato while watching boats bob in the medieval harbor.
Ease into your final full day with a scenic drive to the nearby town of Samobor for a leisurely breakfast of kremšnita and strong coffee at a sunny terrace on Trg kralja Tomislava, then stroll the pastel streets to the quaint Samobor Museum and browse artisan shops for last-minute souvenirs. Afterward, head to the peaceful slopes of Žumberak-Samobor Hills for a short guided nature walk to the panoramic Okić Castle viewpoint, where the rolling countryside and distant Zagreb skyline make a calm, photogenic farewell to the region before you return to the city for an easy afternoon.
Head east for a gentle, art-filled afternoon in Krapina and the nearby Neanderthal Museum, where an immersive exhibit brings local prehistoric finds to life-follow this with a riverside coffee in the town square. Later, wander the timbered lanes of Zabok to visit a family-run wine cellar for a tasting of continental Croatian varieties and finish with a quiet sunset walk along the peaceful banks of the Sava River near Zagreb, easing back into the city before evening plans.
Return to Zagreb in the early evening and unwind with a culinary stroll through Dolac Market's nearby stalls before dinner, sampling seasonal snacks and picking up artisan treats to take home; then head to the atmospheric cobbled lane of Ulica Ivana Tkalčića for a relaxed meal at a family-run konoba that serves slow-roasted regional specialties. After dinner, cap the night with cocktails at the rooftop bar of Hotel Esplanade (for skyline views and live piano), or choose a quieter option with an evening concert or chamber recital at the intimate Vatroslav Lisinski Concert Hall, letting gentle music and city lights bring a composed close to your road-trip.
Rise early for a final relaxed breakfast at Bistro Vrančić near the main boulevard, then take a short tram ride to Jarun Lake for a quiet lakeside walk and a last-shot photo of the city reflected in the water before collecting luggage. Allow time to return to your accommodation, check out, and catch the frequent Pleso prijevoz shuttle from Zagreb Bus Station (Autobusni Kolodvor) or a direct airport bus from Črnomerec to Franjo Tuđman Airport, ensuring you arrive two hours before your flight with time for coffee and quick duty-free shopping.
If your flight is later in the day, enjoy a relaxed farewell afternoon exploring the leafy promenades of Maksimir Park with a picnic by one of the small lakes and a final coffee at the park café, then visit the nearby compact Zagreb Zoo for a light, restorative stroll before collecting luggage. Afterward, stop by TK Maxx / Avenue Mall area or the small artisan shops around Ilica Street for last-minute souvenirs and grab a light meal at Pivnica Medvedgrad (or a nearby bistro) before catching the frequent airport shuttle or a pre-booked taxi to Franjo Tuđman Airport, arriving with time for a relaxed check-in.
If your schedule allows a final easy evening before an early morning transfer, enjoy a leisurely pre-flight meal at Zinfandel Food & Wine Bar for a last taste of modern Croatian cuisine paired with a glass of local Malvazija; afterwards, take a gentle stroll through the nearby tree-lined lanes of Maksimirova Street to stretch your legs and pick up any final artisan chocolates at Chocolaterie Bučar. Finish the night with a relaxed drink at the cozy wine bar Noel Zagreb-close to many hotels-so you can return to your room, gather luggage calmly, and be ready for the shuttle or taxi to Franjo Tuđman Airport in the morning.
| Place / Activity | Cost |
|---|---|
| Dolac Market (breakfast/snacks) | €6 |
| Tkalčićeva Street (coffee/terrace) | €3 |
| Maksimir Park (entrance / paddleboat rental) | €4 |
| Ban Jelačić Square | Free |
| Upper Town (Gornji Grad) / St. Mark's Church (exterior visit) | Free |
| Zrinjevac Park / tram ride (local tram single ticket) | €1.60 |
| Dinner on Tkalčićeva (bistro meal) | €18 |
| Craft beer / cocktail (bar) | €6 |
| Mirogoj Cemetery (outer arc walk / taxi to reach) | Free |
| Medika (live music cover, if attending) | €6 |
| Bistro Tripolitania (breakfast) | €8 |
| Museum of Broken Relationships (entry) | €6 |
| Zagreb Bus Station (Autobusni Kolodvor) - intercity bus to Plitvice | €12 |
| Zrinjevac Park (visit) | Free |
| Lotrščak Tower (noon cannon / viewpoint entry) | €3 |
| Plitvice Lakes National Park (entrance May low/high season - per-person estimate) | €20 |
| Veliki Slap viewpoint / park trails (within park) | Free |
| Lička Kuća (dinner) | €15 |
| Wooden boardwalks / Kozjak Lake boat (within Plitvice - boat included in park ticket) | Free |
| Picnic supplies at Plitvice (cheese/bread) | €5 |
| Rakovica (coffee stop) | €2 |
| Nin Lagoon beach (visit) | Free |
| Church of the Holy Cross (Nin) - exterior / small donation | €1 |
| Zadar Riva / Greeting to the Sun / Sea Organ | Free |
| Konoba Stomorica (dinner) | €18 |
| Marjan Hill (viewpoint / local bus) | €1.60 |
| Bačvice Beach (breakfast) | €6 |
| Marjan Park Forest / Telegrin Viewpoint | Free |
| Split Ferry Port - short catamaran to Čiovo/Šolta (round trip approx.) | €12 |
| Diocletian's Cellars (entry) | €6 |
| Kayak rental (pair split per person estimate) | €10 |
| Sustipan Park / gelato | €3 |
| Drive Split → Mostar (border crossing costs: fuel + vignette estimate per person) | €10 |
| Blue Lake (Imotski) viewpoint | Free |
| Kujundžiluk Bazaar (Mostar) - shopping / coffee | €4 |
| Koski Mehmed-Pasha Mosque (minaret entry) | €4 |
| Muslibegović House (entry) | €4 |
| Taj Mahal Restaurant (dinner - Ćevapi/trout) | €12 |
| Sloga Beer Garden (drink) | €3 |
| Počitelj (visit / small tower entry) | €2 |
| Kravice Falls (entry + optional boat/swim) | €6 |
| Čapljina riverside (snacks) | €3 |
| Metković Neretva Delta riverboat cruise (short trip) | €8 |
| Šibenik / Konoba Nostalgija (dinner) | €15 |
| St. Michael's Fortress (entrance) | €6 |
| Trogir Old Town (visit / dinner Don Dino) | €15 |
| Samobor kremšnita breakfast | €5 |
| Samobor Museum (entry) | €3 |
| Žumberak-Samobor Hills guided walk (per person) | €12 |
| Neanderthal Museum Krapina (entry) | €6 |
| Wine cellar tasting near Zabok (per person) | €10 |
| Sava River riverside stroll (visit) | Free |
| Dolac Market snacks / souvenirs (final shopping) | €8 |
| Ulica Ivana Tkalčića dinner (konoba) | €18 |
| Hotel Esplanade rooftop cocktails (drink) | €10 |
| Vatroslav Lisinski Concert Hall (ticket estimate) | €20 |
| Bistro Vrančić (breakfast) | €6 |
| Jarun Lake visit (tram + walk) | €1.60 |
| Pleso prijevoz shuttle / airport bus (per person) | €6 |
| Zagreb Zoo (optional afternoon visit) | €6 |
| TK Maxx / Avenue Mall shopping (snacks/souvenirs) | €8 |
| Taxi (short rides during trip - per person estimate averaged) | €8 |
| Motorcycle rental option (per person per day estimate if splitting twin rental over 8 days) | €20 |
| Car rental option (per person per day estimate if splitting cost between two) | €18 |
| Estimated Total (per person) | €515.20 |