Best of Croatia 11 Days, Self-Drive

Best of Croatia 11 Days, Self-Drive

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Best of Croatia 11 Days, Self-Drive

11 Days Starting in Zagreb and ending in Dubrovnik

Visiting: Zagreb, Opatija, Plitvička Jezera, Zadar, Split, Dubrovnik

Tour operator:

Today Voyages

Tour code:

57961

Group Type:

Independent

Guide Type:

Self Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing

This tour is no longer available

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. TOUR 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.

Highlights

  • Explore the largest city and capital of Croatia, Zagreb, including Gornji Grad (Upper Town) and Donji Grad (Lower Town).

  • Stroll through the picturesque streets of Opatija, known as the Pearl of Adriatic.

  • Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with magnificent lakes and cascading waterfalls.

  • Discover the historic city of Zadar, with its Roman walls and Sea Organs.

  • Explore Split's old town and the impressive Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO Heritage Site.

  • Drive along the Makarska Riviera and relax on its white sandy beaches.

  • Wander the medieval streets of Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its famous city walls.

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Arrival Zagreb

Location: Zagreb

Accommodation Name: Laguna

Arrive at Zagreb Airport, pick up the car and drive to your hotel for check-in. Explore the largest city and capital of the Republic of Croatia, located in the heart of Europe, sheltered by Mount Medvednica and lying 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

Location: Zagreb

Accommodation Name: Laguna

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)

Location: Opatija

Accommodation Name: Galeb

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

Location: Opatija

Accommodation Name: Galeb

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)

Location: Plitvička Jezera

Accommodation Name: Mirni Kutak

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)

Location: Zadar

Accommodation Name: Porto

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)

Location: Split

Accommodation Name: Neva

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

Location: Split

Accommodation Name: Neva

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)

Location: Dubrovnik

Accommodation Name: Ivka

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

Location: Dubrovnik

Accommodation Name: Ivka

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

Location: Dubrovnik

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

What's Included

  • 10 nights' accommodation

  • 10 Breakfasts

  • 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)

    Safety equipment including a first aid kit, triangle, high visibility vest, and fire extinguisher is included.

  • Airport fees

  • Tax & VAT

  • Meet and Greet on day 1

    A meet and greet service is provided on the first day of the tour.

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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

    Personal expenditures, drinks, and meals not mentioned in the program are not included.

  • Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, mineral water, camera/video camera fee (if any)

    Drinks and camera fees are not included.

  • Travel Insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, accidents, etc.

    Travel insurance and costs due to unforeseen circumstances are not included.

  • 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

    Additional charges for missing fuel, extremely dirty vehicle, lost car documents, registration plates or keys, empty car battery, and late car return are not included.

  • Parking fees

  • 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.

  • 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

Mode of Transport

This self-drive tour includes a rental car with unlimited mileage, CDW, theft protection, replacement vehicle in case of accident or breakdown, and necessary safety equipment, allowing you to explore Croatia at your own pace.

Accommodation

Enjoy comfortable stays at various hotels including Laguna in Zagreb, Galeb in Opatija, Mirni Kutak in Plitvice, Porto in Zadar, Neva in Split, and Ivka in Dubrovnik, ensuring a restful night after each day's adventure.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of vehicle is provided for the self-drive tour?

    The tour includes a rental car with unlimited mileage, CDW (Collision Damage Waiver), TP (theft protection), and safety equipment such as a first aid kit, triangle, high visibility vest, and fire extinguisher. A replacement vehicle is also provided in case of an accident or breakdown.

  • Are there any guided tours available during the trip?

    Yes, there are several optional guided tours available throughout the trip. You can book guided city tours in Zagreb, Opatija, Plitvice, Zadar, Split, and Dubrovnik. Additionally, there are optional tours such as a wine tasting experience in Zagreb, city tours in Pula, Porec, or Rovinj, and a Game of Thrones excursion in Dubrovnik.

  • What meals are included in the tour package?

    The tour package includes 10 breakfasts. All other meals are not included and will need to be arranged separately.

  • What are some of the key attractions to visit in Zagreb?

    In Zagreb, you can explore the charming and picturesque Gornji Grad (Upper Town) and modern Donji Grad (Lower Town). Key attractions include the colorful rooftop of St. Mark's Church, Lotrscak Tower, Funicular, Stone Gate, and the open-air market Dolac. The main square is the Square of Ban Josip Jelačić.

  • What can I expect to see in Plitvice Lakes National Park?

    Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich flora and fauna. You can stroll through the park's paradisiacal paths, admire the magnificent lakes, cascading waterfalls, and the picturesque natural scenery. There is also an optional four-hour guided tour available.

  • Are there any special activities for Game of Thrones fans in Dubrovnik?

    Yes, there is an optional Game of Thrones excursion in Dubrovnik. You can climb Fortress Lovrijenac, known as The Red Keep, and see locations such as Kings Landing, the Battle of Blackwater Bay, and the House of the Undying dungeon. The tour also includes a boat ride to the Island of Lokrum, which was transformed into the magical town of Quarth in the series.

  • What are some of the highlights of the drive from Split to Dubrovnik?

    The drive from Split to Dubrovnik includes a scenic route along the coastline, passing through the Makarska Riviera. You can stop for a refreshing bath and relax on the white sandy beaches before continuing to Dubrovnik.

  • What is the meet and greet service on day 1?

    On day 1, upon arrival at Zagreb Airport, you will be met and greeted by a representative who will assist you with picking up your rental car and provide any necessary information for the start of your tour.

  • How does Today Voyages work?

    We are an Online Travel Agency, specialized in Group Vacations and Private Vacations. We have been in business for over 30 years through our sister company Go West Tours and, throughout the years, have developed an extensive network of trusted professionals around the world and a structured methodology to screen our suppliers. Today Voyages offers a selection of tours that are designed, managed and operated by our network of trusted Tour Operators and DMCs. Our database is connected with our partners so that when you make a booking with us this will immediately be received and processed by the Tour Operator.

  • Where should I buy the flights to reach my destination?

    Today Voyages does not sell flights directly. None of our tours come with flights included. Why? Because we prefer to give full flexibility to our valued customers to select the airlines and the booking platform they prefer. As soon as your flight is booked and confirmed, we invite you to update your flight plan within your Today Voyages booking confirmation page by entering your flight number, departure and arrival times, as well as your Passport information (if needed). None of these fields are mandatory but we highly encourage you to provide as much information as possible. This will allow us to provide you with the excellent service you are looking for.

  • What is an additional excursion or tour optional?

    Certain tours might show a selection of additional excursions/optional activities that you may want to add to our standard itinerary. These services are priced separately and can be added to the cart before completing the booking. We believe these optional services to contribute to making your vacation unforgettable; however, you are in no way obliged to purchase them. All our tours are awesome with our without optional services!

  • What is the difference between Group Vacations and Private Vacations?

    If you purchase one of our Group vacation packages, you will be escorted by a professional tour guide and will be traveling with other like-minded travelers you may not know. The group size depends on the tour you select. If you purchase one of our Private vacation packages, you will be traveling only within your group of friends. You may or may not be escorted by a professional tour guide; this depends on the type of private tour you are interested in.

  • When and how will I receive the travel documents (vouchers)?

    If you book one of our Group or Private tours, you will receive your travel documents via email approximately 20 days prior to travel date. If you reserve one of our Vacation Rentals, you will hear back from the property manager via email a few days prior to checking-in. We recommend checking your emails on a regular basis as this is our most reliable method of communication. If you have questions or need additional support, you can always chat with us or email us directly.

  • What happens if a Group tour does not get confirmed?

    It is very simple... you will be offered an alternative departure date or be refunded the full amount you pre-paid. No questions asked!

  • What happens after I book?

    The majority of our tours are confirmed at the time of booking. This means that, after submitting the payment online, you will receive an order confirmation email; make sure to save this email and to note down your confirmation number for any future communication with us. Some tours may be sold on a 'on request' basis. This means that for these tours we reserve the right to check the availability of your spot(s) with the Tour Operator before confirming the tour to you. As soon as you submit the payment online for a 'on request' tour you will receive an email notification that confirms your order request. Within 72 hours, you will receive either a confirmation email or a denial email. Do not worry... we will do everything we can to confirm your tour!

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Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Today Voyages allows you to make 1 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 65 days before the start of the tour.

  • Low Deposit

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

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of today voyages charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

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

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