Best of Croatia 11 Days, Self-Drive

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Tour Overview

Choose this self-drive tour and spend eleven days exploring the breathtaking beauty of Croatian landscape. Start in Zagreb, the charming capital of Croatia, then continue to Opatija, and admire the glamour of fragrant botanical gardens, parks and coloured villas of this sea side resort of Austro-Hungarian period. Plitvice Lakes National Park is a must-see natural phenomenon with astonishing waterfalls and 16 connected lakes, and Zadar and Split will capture your interest by the unique culinary and laid back atmosphere. End the journey with a remarkable visit of Dubrovnik, another Croatian treasure characterized by spectacular architecture, intense art, and cultural opulence. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Zagreb: The dynamic capital of Croatia is the largest city in the country, boasting fantastic examples of Austro-Hungarian architecture and high quality of life for its residents

  • Dubrovnik: Protected by magnificent medieval walls, the atmospheric capital of the historic Republic of Ragusa is a treasure trove of palaces and churches

  • Plitvice Lakes National Park: This national park is a nature lover's paradise

  • The cascading waterfalls and variety of wildlife are sure to take your breath away

  • Split: This seaside Dalmatian town is must-see, framed by a beautiful mountain backdrop and aqua-coloured waters, plus some of the best Roman ruins in the world

Itinerary

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Day 1 : ARRIVAL ZAGREB

Zagreb, Croatia

Location: Zagreb

Arrive at Zagreb Airport, meet and greet by our local representative who will assist you with your car hire and inform you how to proceed on your departure day. Drive to your hotel for check-in and explore the largest city and capital of the Republic of Croatia, located in the heart of Europe, sheltered by the Mount Medvednica and laying on the banks of the river Sava. Visit charming and picturesque Gornji Grad(Upper Town) and modern Donji Grad(Lower Town), enjoy the beautiful squares, parks and facades of this vibrant city. 



Overnight in Zagreb.


Day 2 : ZAGREB

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before you start exploring Zagreb. A stroll through Zagreb is an interesting and pleasant journey through the past and present. The longest street in Zagreb, Ilica, divides the old, romantic Upper Town from the more recently built, bustling and buzzing Lower Town. Upper Town of Zagreb is a unique place for many reasons: colorful rooftop of St. Marks Church, Lotrscak Tower, Funicular, Stone Gate and gas streetlamps that had to be lit by hand. Gradec and Kaptol are the oldest parts of the city from which Zagreb has sprung. Market place Dolac is one of the rare open-air markets that still remain in Europe. The main square is the Square of Ban Josip Jelačić. To get a deeper insight into this charming place book our optional tour guide for 2 hours city tour.



If you are a wine connoisseur you cannot miss our optional wine tasting experience. Not only will you enjoy top-notch wines, meat delicacies, and exquisite cheeses, but you will also learn all you need to know about wine and food pairing. Get an introduction to Croatian wines during wine class in Zagreb led by a sommelier. Learn about local wine regions and winemaking secrets while sampling Croatian prosciutto, cheese, and bread.





Overnight in Zagreb.



Day 3 : ZAGREB – OPATIJA (175 km – 2.15 hrs)

Meals Included: Breakfast

After your leisure breakfast at the hotel, check-out from your hotel and follow your drive to Opatija, known as the Pearl of Adriatic, due to its fragrant botanical gardens, parks and coloured villas. Glammed up as a very stylish seaside resort, this charming Istrian town has been attracting aristocrats and famous people for over a century. With the perfect mild climate all-year-around and preserved environment, Opatija is also known as a health-tourism spot. Stroll down the Lungomare promenade and enjoy the fresh air or sip on a refreshing drink on one of the city's many sunny terraces. Alternatively, book our optional private tour guide to learn more about this charming town.



Overnight in Opatija.


Day 4 : OPATIJA

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy your morning breakfast at the hotel and get ready to explore Opatija, known as a popular seaside resort for the Austro-Hungarian elite during the days of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Stroll down its picturesque streets, perhaps taste some local specialities, or you can book our optional Opatija city tour and discover more about this attractive city. If you wish to go further within your Croatian discoveries and get inside of this beautiful region of Istria, book our Pula, Porec or Rovinj City tours with a private guide. 





Overnight in Opatija.



Day 5 : OPATIJA – PLITVICE (170 km – 2.15 hrs)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Begin the day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel and prepare yourself to depart towards Plitvice Lakes National Park, a must-see natural wonder in Croatia and a UNESCO’s World Heritage Site. Surrounded by dense woods and characterised by its rich flora and fauna, Plitvice Lakes are a natural phenomenon of rare and unique beauty. Stroll the paradisiacal paths of the park, admire the magnificent lakes, the beautiful cascading waterfalls, and the whole picturesque image of nature. Take your time and relax, getting ready for a comfortable night spent at your selected hotel in Plitvice. Alternatively, you can book our four hours Plitvice tour and explore this place with an English speaking guide. 





Overnight in Plitvice.



Day 6 : PLITVICE – ZADAR (130 km – 2 hrs)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel and get ready for your following destination located on a narrow peninsula in northern Dalmatia, Zadar. Once a Venetian town and former capital of Dalmatia, Zadar has evolved into a modern-day city, perfectly combining modern life with the impressive past that defines it. Wander around its inspiring centre, stroll down the streets paved with gleaming white stone and get in touch with history admiring the architecture of the Roman walls and Sea Organs with The Greeting to the sun, beautiful monuments that symbolize the mutual conversation between the man and nature. Catch a glimpse of its café scene enjoying a tasty coffee and indulge in a culinary experience in one of the traditional restaurants in Zadar. You can book our optional Zadar city tour and explore this Mediterranean city with a private guide.



Overnight in Zadar.


Day 7 : ZADAR – SPLIT (160 km – 1.45 hrs)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel and then depart to Split. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes while driving towards one of the most beautiful cities in Croatia. You can explore the city by foot and catch a glimpse of its most inspiring landmarks. Stroll the alleys of the spectacular old town, located in and around the impressive Diocletian’s Palace, a Unesco Heritage Site dating back to the fourth century. The city is bursting with life, offers many tempting attractions, from the beautiful beaches to a variety of festivals, exhibitions and concerts that take place on city squares. We also recommend booking our two hours Split city tour to learn more about this stunning coastal town.





Overnight in Split.



Day 8 : SPLIT

Meals Included: Breakfast

After your lovely breakfast at the hotel, enjoy the leisure day in Split. Take a walk around the centre and visit the royal palace or indulge in the laid-back lifestyle the locals while having a coffee at the main square or enjoying some local speciality at the traditional restaurant. You can also drive along the coast and enjoy panoramic views of Cetina Canyon, perhaps stop in Omiš, a city known for its history of piracy. This charming city is home to many medieval fortresses, the most famous once being 13th century Mirabelle Fortress, and 15th-century Fortress Starigrad (Fortica). On top of everything, Omiš offers its visitors beautiful sandy public beach, with restaurants and cafes scattered around.





Overnight in Split.



Day 9 : SPLIT – DUBROVNIK (270 km – 4 hrs)

Meals Included: Breakfast

After indulging in the scrumptious breakfast at the hotel, check out and continue your Croatian adventure to Dubrovnik. The drive along the coastline will take you to Makarska Riviera, where you can stop for a refreshing bath and lay back at white sandy beaches. Once in Dubrovnik, check in to your hotel and start with the exploration of this outstanding city. You can stroll its streets and search for the best things to see inside its protective walls. We suggest you join our optional Dubrovnik city tour of the old town, one of the most beautiful medieval towns in the world. Protected by magnificent medieval walls, the atmospheric capital of the historic Republic of Ragusa is a treasure trove of palaces and churches. Built in stone and famous for its beautiful city walls and historical monuments, the city itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.



Overnight in Dubrovnik.


Day 10 : DUBROVNIK

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel and the rest of the day at leisure. You can choose to explore the area on your own or decide to book our suggested optional Dubrovnik city tour and take a deeper insight into this spectacular beauty of this lively capital of the historic Republic of Ragusa and discover breathtaking cultural heritage that troves of palaces and churches. 



Alternatively, go on 3 hours Cilipi Folklor tour to witness local customs through song and dance. Let us greet you with a traditional “warm” welcome (grape brandy and figs) as you step into the village of Čilipi. Browse the market for some authentic local souvenirs and enjoy rhythms of Dalmatian music. 



Game of Thrones fans cannot miss the opportunity to go on this fantastic excursion. Climb Fortress Lovrijenac, The Red Keep and admire the views of the old town but also to see the Kings Landing, the Battle of Blackwater Bay, and the House of the Undying dungeon. Your guide tells you about the marvels of the city and fantasy world of the series and how the two live together. Take the boat ride to the exotic Island of Lokrum to hear about its history and its more recent development into the magical town of Quarth. Take a bun or two, the peacocks will be thrilled!



Overnight in Dubrovnik.



Day 11 : DEPARTURE DUBROVNIK

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy a tasty breakfast before returning the rental car at the Dubrovnik Airport and catching your return flight home.


What's Included

ACCOMMODATION:

  • 10 nights' accommodation

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1-2 Zagreb:

Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Laguna or similar 3*

Superior Hotel category = Hotel Dubrovnik or similar 4*

Day 3-4 Opatija/Lovran region:

Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Galeb or similar 3*

Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Savoy or similar 4*

Day 5 Plitvice region:

Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Mirni Kutak (Otocac) or similar 3*

Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Mirjana Rastoke (Slunj) or similar 4*

Day 6 Zadar:

Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Porto or similar 3*

Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Kolovare or similar 4*

Day 7-8 Split region:

Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Neva or similar 3*

Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Tragos or similar 4*

Day 9-10 Dubrovnik:

Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Ivka or similar 3*

Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Adria or similar 4*

CAR HIRE OPTIONS

Car Group C = Opel Astra w/ AC or similar

Car Group E = Opel Insignia or similar


MEALS:

  • 10 Breakfasts

CAR HIRE: 

  • Unlimited mileage 
  • CDW (Collision Damage Waiver)
  • TP (theft protection) 
  • Replacement vehicle in the case of an accident or breakdown 
  • Safety equipment (first aid kit, triangle, high visibility vest, fire extinguisher) 
  • Airport fees
  • Tax & VAT

OTHER:

  • Meet and Greet

What's Not Included

  • Tour guide
  • Domestic/International flights
  • Any entrance fees and activities
  • All meals not mentioned in the included section
  • Optional tours and excursions
  • Porterage and gratuities  
  • Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks and meals or items not stated explicitly in the program
  • Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, mineral water, camera/video camera fee (if any)
  • Travel Insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, accidents, etc.

CAR HIRE EXCLUSIONS

  • GPS
  • Baby seat/ Booster 
  • 3rd driver
  • Damage handling fee 
  • Fuel 
  • Tolls  
  • Young driver supplement
  • Additional charges that may occur due to; missing fuel (refuelling charge); extremely dirty vehicle; lost car documents, registration plates or keys, license plates or equipment; registration plates, empty car battery (requiring towing service), late car collection and return
  • Parking fees

Requirements

Comfortable and warm clothing is the most suitable for travelling. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.


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Please Note

  • Free upgrade to Car Group E for Triple Rooms
  • Please note that CDW doesn’t cover: Tyre, undercarriage, interior & glass damages, Malfunctions and damages caused by wrong fuel, reckless driving, Damages caused by driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs or passing through a red light, Damages caused by unauthorised driver
  • Driver Requirements: Minimum age of the driver: 21 years, valid driver’s license and passport or ID and possession of the driver’s license at least 2 years. 
  • Credit card accepted (VISA, MASTERCARD, AMERICAN EXPRESS or DINERS)
  • Any extras for the car hire can be booked only ON SPOT
  • Early check-in, late check-out, connecting or adjoining rooms in the hotel are subject to availability and not guaranteed
  • In many hotels the triple rooms are a double room with an additional bed or sofa bed. Their comfort conditions are lower than the international standards of the triple room
  • No refund for unused services. Splitting of the package is not allowed  

Accommodation options

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1-2 Zagreb:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Laguna or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel category = Hotel Palace or similar 4*
Day 3-4 Opatija:
  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Gardenija or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Grand Palace or similar 4*
Day 5 Plitvice:
  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Mirni Kutak or similar 3* 
  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Mirjana Rastoke or similar 4*
Day 6 Zadar:
  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Porto or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Pinija or similar 4*
Day 7-8 Split:
  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Neva or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Tragos or similar 4*
Day 9-10 Dubrovnik:
  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Ivka or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Adria or similar 4*

CAR HIRE OPTIONS
  • Car Group C = VWGolf, Opel Astra w/ AC or similar
  • Car Group E = VW Passat, Opel Insignia or similar

Accommodation options

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1-2 Zagreb:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Laguna or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel category = Hotel Dubrovnik or similar 4*

Day 3-4 Opatija/Lovran region:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Galeb or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Savoy or similar 4*

Day 5 Plitvice region:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Mirni Kutak (Otocac) or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Mirjana Rastoke (Slunj) or similar 4*

Day 6 Zadar:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Porto or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Kolovare or similar 4*

Day 7-8 Split region:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Neva or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Tragos or similar 4*

Day 9-10 Dubrovnik:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Ivka or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Adria or similar 4*

CAR HIRE OPTIONS

  • Car Group C = Opel Astra w/ AC or similar
  • Car Group E = Opel Insignia or similar

Check out our Q&As

  • Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?

    Yes

  • Are airport transfers included in this tour?

    No

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    No

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers

  • When are there specific hotel names confirmed?

    Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client's arrival

  • Do you offer any travel insurance?

    We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure. 

  • Are Visa fees included in the price?

    No, visa fees are not included

  • What does the price include?

    What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.

  • Is there any option for solo traveller?

    Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.

  • Are flights included in the tour?

    No, they are not included

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

Pamela  

Overall good.

Overall good. The only issue was lack of free park

Overall good. The only issue was lack of free parking at some hotels In Zagreb had a pay a large amount to park the car at the airport, which did not need until we left Zagreb 2 nights later. While parked outside the hotel some locals deliberately scratched the hire car with a key or screw driver. It would have been much better if the hire car was delivered to hotel the morning that we departing Zagreb ...more ...less

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Gulliver Travel requires a minimum deposit of 30% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of gulliver travel charges.

    At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Best of Croatia 11 Days, Self-Drive

11 Days Starting in Zagreb, Croatia and ending in Dubrovnik, Croatia

Visiting: Zagreb, Croatia

Tour operator:

Gulliver Travel

Tour code:

448477

Group Type:

Independent

Guide Type:

Self Guided

Physical rating:

VERY_EASY

Age range:

10-99

Special diets catered:

Please advise request

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Active

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $1466 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 15-Mar-2025 but subject to change.

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