Much different than the coastal cities of Dalmatia, Zagreb is a sprawling metropolis that features a mix of grand architecture, spacious squares and numerous parks. While the city itself offers an array of attractions, its location provides ample opportunities for fabulous day trips from Zagreb!
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Best Day Trips from Zagreb, Croatia
For each of our featured Zagreb day trips, we include details on how to get there as well as suggestions for top-rated organized day tours from Zagreb.
Pro Tip: Also read our guide of Top Things To Do in Zagreb when planning your Croatia 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 falls 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. As such, a little pre-planning is necessary.
When visiting Plitvice Lakes it is best to pre-book online in advance. Walk-up tickets will only be sold if there are available time slots remaining.
Because the tickets time and date specific, arranging a Plitvice Lakes day trip from Zagreb on your own requires some planning and offers little flexibility.
Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes Bus
There are numerous daily bus departures from the main Zagreb bus station to the national park. We use FlixBus when traveling in Croatia.
The Zagreb-Plitvice distance is about 90 miles and the ride takes at least 2 hours. We recommend buying your return or onward bus ticket beforehand, especially in the summer.
How To Get to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb via Car
Of course, those who would rather drive themselves can do so by renting a car. If self-driving, consider stopping at Rastoke.
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 astounding nature. This consistently top-rated tour includes a stop in Rastoke and your entry ticket to Plitvice.
Zagreb to Split via Plitvice Lakes
Rather than taking a day trip to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb, you can also see the waterfalls in route to Split.
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, 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 the next morning, allowing us some time to have the park nearly to ourselves!
Without a car, those who want to complete the journey in one day can book a Zagreb to Plitvice to Split Tour.
#2 Zagreb to Ljubljana and Lake Bled, Slovenia
Stunningly beautiful, Slovenia is Croatia’s neighbor to the north. 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 Bled is absolutely breathtaking.
A small island with a lone church sits in the center of the lake, 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 (and a few trains) make the trip daily.
However, a Zagreb to Lake Bled day trip requires a bit more effort. We would recommend starting early in the morning, spending just 1 hour Touring Ljubljana and then catching a bus on to see Lake Bled.
Still, coordinating bus schedules could be problematic – and any delays could severely impact your day of sightseeing.
Therefore, we believe the best way to get from Zagreb to the top two Slovenia sights is to take an organized Zagreb to Lake Bled and Ljubljana Tour.
#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 also features pastel-painted baroque buildings, the Cathedral (and many more churches) and numerous relaxing squares.
Although the fortress takes center stage, one of our favorite things to do in Varazdin is to explore the charming lanes.
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 only takes 2 hours. If driving a car, the journey to Varazdin from Zagreb can be made in about an hour.
Varazdin and Trakoscan Castle Tours
Another option – that includes an additional stop at the famous Trakoscan Castle – is an organized excursion.
This small-group tour includes a guided walk of Varazdin and then continues to Trakoscan Castle, just 25 miles away.
#4 Day Trip from Zagreb to Samobor
Tucked in the hills 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 St. Anastasia church 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 ruins of Samobor Castle sit atop Tepec Hill – which is accessible via a short, but steep, climb. Just follow the Gradna from the center of town to the base of the hill and start the trek up.
We wandered through the remains then returned via a path that featured The Stations of the Cross.
Other things to do on a day trip to Samobor are tasting the local favorites, Bermet and Kremsnite. A regional aperitif, Bermet is a popular drink to enjoy on the main square. The famous Kremsnite is a vanilla custard cake.
How To Get to Samobor
Being just 15 miles away, Samobor is an easy day trip from Zagreb via public bus. However, those who prefer a guided tour can take this half-day excursion to the top Samobor sights.
#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.
With vine-covered hills and rising church steeples, Krapina itself is a pleasant, off-the-beaten-path day trip from Zagreb.
Krapina Neanderthal Museum
The sleek and modern Krapina Neanderthal Museum explains the findings of Neanderthals and the history of evolution. Outside, a short path extends to the excavation site where the discoveries were made.
Krapina Churches
Three churches in town 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. Travelers who want to combine a trip to the Neanderthal Museum and Trakoscan Castle can book this efficient tour that visits both!
#6 Istria Day Tour from Zagreb
Istria is one of the most beautiful regions of Croatia! Due to the numerous sights to see, self-driving or joining one of the Istria day tours from Zagreb is the best way to see the area.
On a full day outing from Zagreb, you will discover three of the best Istria destinations: Pula, Porec and – our personal favorite – Rovinj.
In the ancient city of Pula, you 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. Find out more about the highlights of Touring Istria and then read the reviews for of a highly recommended excursion from Zagreb!
More Tours of Zagreb
Some of the best Zagreb tours are tours in Zagreb! The following offering interesting and unique ways to explore the Croatian capital city.
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 personal insight on the country.
Join a highly-rated Private Zagreb City Tour or a group tour and meet fellow explorers. Alternatively, set off on your own with 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 this Foodie Tour that begins at the green market and makes stops at numerous restaurants.
What You Need For Your Trip to Zagreb
Be sure you have the following, so that you can make the most of your Croatia Trip and your European Vacation!
Durable Shoes
All of our recommended Zagreb tours require walking (or cycling). Wear a good pair of travel shoes so that you are ready to roll. I prefer lightweight trainers by New Balance and Kris goes with Merrell Trail Shoes.
Travel Camera
If you are anything like us, you will want a great camera for snapping tons of pictures on your excursions from Zagreb.
We use a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens, which takes incredible photos and is an excellent value camera for travelers.
Zagreb Guidebook and Day Pack
Whether you are planning DIY day trips or joining tours, it’s always a good idea to have a comprehensive Croatia guidebook.
You will also want a functionable day bag to organize and secure all of your essential everyday travel items!
Pro Tip: Get (and stay) organized for your Vacation to Croatia by using our Trip Planning Printables!
Start planning your trip to Croatia! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
More Great Day Trips in Croatia
- Top Day Trips from Split
- Best Dubrovnik Day Trips
- Fun Zadar Excursions
- 1 Week Croatia Sample Itineraries
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