Self-Drive Along Croatia's Scenic Coast
This new Great Value Holiday is launching soon!
Beautiful coastlines and delicious wine
Set off on the ultimate self-drive adventure through Croatia! Begin in the lively capital of Zagreb, then make your way to the delightful coastal towns of Zadar, the Split area (Podstrana), and the stunning Dubrovnik. Along the journey, you'll be captivated by Croatia's breathtaking coastlines, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and natural gems like Plitvice Lakes National Park.
What's Included
- Manual car hire
- Pick up ZAG Airport on Day 1, drop off DBV Airport on Day 9*
- 2 nights in Zagreb at the Garden Inn, or similar
- 2 nights in Zadar at the Porto Hotel, or similar
- 2 nights in Split (Podstrana) at the San Antonio Hotel, or similar
- 2 nights in Dubrovnik at the Lero Hotel, or similar
- One-way domestic flight from Dubrovnik to Zagreb
- Includes 1 checked in luggage of 23 kg and 1 hand luggage per person
- 1 night in Zagreb at the Royal Airport Hotel, or similar
- Breakfast Daily
Please note: tourist tax is not included, and will need to be paid to the hotel directly. It is approximately 2 Euro per person per night and subject to change.
*One-way car hire drop off fee will apply. The amount is subject to change but is approximately $90 at time of publishing.
Great Ways to Explore
Indulge in decadent Croatian wine.
Visit the striking St. Mark's Church.
Explore Plitvice Lakes National Park.
Experience Zadar's vibrant nightlife.
Enjoy beautiful beaches in Split.
Take a captivating self-drive adventure through Croatia, where the open road lets you explore at your own pace. Start in Zagreb, a vibrant capital steeped in history and culture, before heading to the stunning coastal gem of Zadar. With your car hire, you’ll wind along Croatia’s breathtaking coastlines, uncovering hidden coves and charming villages.
Next, make your way to Podstrana, near Split, where ancient ruins blend seamlessly with vibrant city life. Discover UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Diocletian’s Palace, then head to the jewel of the Adriatic — Dubrovnik. Here, medieval city walls and terracotta rooftops create a postcard-perfect backdrop.
Don’t miss the serene Plitvice Lakes National Park, where turquoise lakes and cascading waterfalls offer an unforgettable detour. Along the journey, indulge in Croatia’s rich culinary traditions, from fresh seafood to local delicacies, and enjoy excellent wines. Wrap up your adventure back in Zagreb, having experienced the very best of Croatia’s coastlines, landscapes, and culture.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Manual car hire
- Pick up ZAG Airport on Day 1, drop off DBV Airport on Day 9*
- 2 nights in Zagreb at the Garden Inn, or similar
- 2 nights in Zadar at the Porto Hotel, or similar
- 2 nights in Split (Podstrana) at the San Antonio Hotel, or similar
- 2 nights in Dubrovnik at the Lero Hotel, or similar
- One-way domestic flight from Dubrovnik to Zagreb
- Includes 1 checked in luggage of 23 kg and 1 hand luggage per person
- 1 night in Zagreb at the Royal Airport Hotel, or similar
- Breakfast Daily
Please note: tourist tax is not included, and will need to be paid to the hotel directly. It is approximately 2 Euro per person per night and subject to change.
*One-way car hire drop off fee will apply. The amount is subject to change but is approximately $90 at time of publishing.
Indulge in decadent Croatian wine.
Visit the striking St. Mark's Church.
Explore Plitvice Lakes National Park.
Experience Zadar's vibrant nightlife.
Enjoy beautiful beaches in Split.
Take a captivating self-drive adventure through Croatia, where the open road lets you explore at your own pace. Start in Zagreb, a vibrant capital steeped in history and culture, before heading to the stunning coastal gem of Zadar. With your car hire, you’ll wind along Croatia’s breathtaking coastlines, uncovering hidden coves and charming villages.
Next, make your way to Podstrana, near Split, where ancient ruins blend seamlessly with vibrant city life. Discover UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Diocletian’s Palace, then head to the jewel of the Adriatic — Dubrovnik. Here, medieval city walls and terracotta rooftops create a postcard-perfect backdrop.
Don’t miss the serene Plitvice Lakes National Park, where turquoise lakes and cascading waterfalls offer an unforgettable detour. Along the journey, indulge in Croatia’s rich culinary traditions, from fresh seafood to local delicacies, and enjoy excellent wines. Wrap up your adventure back in Zagreb, having experienced the very best of Croatia’s coastlines, landscapes, and culture.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Prices From:
Enhance your holiday with:
- Walking city tours of Zagreb and Dubrovnik
Day 1. Welcome to Croatia!
Upon arriving in Zagreb, pick up your car hire and make your way to your first accommodation. Once you’ve settled in, venture out to explore this historic city! Begin with a stroll around the bustling Ban Jelačić Square, then treat yourself to dinner at a local restaurant to kick off your Croatian adventure in style.
Check-in - Hilton Garden Inn Zagreb - Radnicka
Hilton Garden Inn is a 4-star hotel right in the heart of Zagreb.
The hotel has a 24-hour front desk to accommodate guests' needs around the clock, and there is a lobby bar where guests can mingle or have a cocktail to unwind. There is also an on-site restaurant that serves lunch and dinner, serving meals with locally sourced ingredients from the farms in Croatia. A breakfast buffet is also available, and there is an on-site fitness center.
Guest rooms feature a private bathroom, air-conditioning, a desk and chair, free Wi-Fi, a TV, coffee maker, iron/ironing board, a mini-fridge, and an in-room safe. Room service is also available.
Zagreb Main Bus Station is an 8-minute walk from the hotel, and attractions such as Archaeological Museum Zagreb and Botanical Garden Zagreb are within a 9-minute drive from the hotel.
Day 2. Zagreb
Discover the highlights of Zagreb today! Marvel at the vibrant street art that adorns the city, visit the stunning St. Mark's Church, snap a photo of the impressive St. Stephen's Cathedral, and stroll through the lush Botanical Gardens. Don’t miss the lively Dolac Market for delicious local bites and unique handmade goods. If you fancy a bit of history, pop into the Zagreb City Museum or the Archaeological Museum for an insightful experience.
Day 3. Zagreb - Zadar
Have breakfast, then hit the road towards Zadar, with the option to stop at the famous Plitvice Lakes National Park. With 16 stunning lakes and a host of beautiful waterfalls, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is perfect for a relaxing walk. If you fancy a quick detour, stop by the charming village of Rastoke, just 20 minutes away.
After soaking in the natural beauty, continue on to Zadar and check into your next hotel. Take some time to settle in, enjoy a delicious dinner, and later head out to experience the vibrant nightlife that Zadar has to offer.
A Tip For Your Trip: Note that the drive from Zagreb to Zadar is about 3 hours.
Check-in - Hotel Porto, Zadar
Experience the allure of Hotel Porto, situated in Zadar just 10 minutes from the beach.
Conveniently located just 10 minutes from the airport and town center, the bus stop is a mere 3-minute stroll, connecting passengers to the city center and railway for extended journeys. For those with a car, quick access to the motorway and Dalmacija Marina in Sukosan is readily available.
Indulge in newly renovated rooms featuring air conditioning, TV, private bathrooms with showers, complimentary toiletries, free Wi-Fi, and hair dryers.
Guests can also enjoy a buffet breakfast or a cocktail at the onsite restaurant and bar.
Day 4. Zadar
Spend the day exploring the sights of Zadar! Begin by wandering through the Old Town, taking in the fascinating architecture. Stop for a bite to eat at one of the cosy spots around Narodni Trg (People’s Square). For breathtaking views, climb the UNESCO-listed city walls, then make your way to the historic Five Wells Square. Round off the day with a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, soaking in the charm of this coastal city.
Day 5. Zadar - Split (Podstrana)
Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel before driving to your next stay in the Split area. Once you’ve checked in and had a bit of a rest, head out to explore this lively city. Start with the magnificent Diocletian's Palace, where you can marvel at Roman ruins dating back nearly 1,800 years. After soaking in the history, enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, then unwind and get ready for more adventures tomorrow.
A Tip For Your Trip: Note that the drive from Zadar to Split is about 2 hours.
Check-in - Hotel San Antonio
Located on a tranquil white pebble beach in Podstrana, the 4-star luxurious Hotel San Antonio offers a serene retreat just a short drive from Split’s city center and the historic Diocletian’s Palace. This contemporary beachfront hotel is perfect for individuals, pairs, or large groups seeking a peaceful getaway, with a blend of relaxation, aquatic fun, and stress relief.
Eager passengers will also appreciate its proximity to local attractions and its convenient services for excursions to stunning Adriatic destinations.
Rooms are sleek with a minimalist approach, yet include all the goods you'd want to have on a beachside retreat, including a large-screen TV, Wi-Fi, room service, marble bathroom, and the option for a window overlooking the gorgeous blue waters.
Guests can enjoy a seasonal rooftop pool with breathtaking views of the sea, a restaurant with a terrace, and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property.
Additionally, guests can unwind at the on-site sauna, keep active in the fitness room, or relax at the bar. With free parking and EV chargers for electric vehicles, Hotel San Antonio ensures a comfortable and sustainable stay. Talk to the hotel staff to book exciting activities such as rafting, canyoning, and horseback riding, along with trips to Krka National Park and nearby islands.
Day 6. Split (Podstrana)
Start your day with breakfast before heading out for more sightseeing. Begin with a stroll along the scenic Riva Promenade, soaking up the coastal views. For breathtaking panoramas, make your way up Marjan Hill. If you're in the mood for a wine-tasting adventure, take a short 20-minute drive to the Putalj Winery and indulge in some of Croatia’s finest wines.
Day 7. Split (Podstrana) - Dubrovnik
After breakfast, hit the road towards Dubrovnik! Once you arrive, dive straight into the city's captivating old town, and for Game of Thrones fans, check out a few iconic filming locations. Later, why not try some local craft beers at a Dubrovnik brewery, before enjoying a delicious dinner to end your day on a high note?
A Tip For Your Trip: Note that the drive from Split to Dubrovnik is about 3 and a half hours.
Check-in - Hotel Lero Dubrovnik
Hotel Lero is a 4-star hotel in Dubrovnik just under a 5-minute walk from the beach and a little over a mile away from the medieval Walls of Dubrovnik.
The hotel offers breakfast in the morning and two restaurants, a piano bar, and a pool bar. There is also an on-site spa where guests can indulge in treatments like massages, manicures and pedicures, eyebrow shaping, and more. The hotel also features a sauna, fitness center, and outdoor pool.
Guest rooms are bright and spacious, featuring blackout curtains for a restful night's sleep. There is a private bathroom with a hair dryer, bathrobes, and slippers. Other amenities include air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, an in-room safe, a desk, coffee maker, and TV.
The hotel offers guests a convenient location, just a 15-minute stroll from the UNESCO-protected Old City of Dubrovnik and a mere 5-minute walk from the pebble Miramare Beach.
Day 8. Dubrovnik
Discover even more of Dubrovnik today! Start by visiting the impressive Rector's Palace, then take a stroll along the city’s towering walls. After that, unwind on Banje Beach. For a thrilling end to your day, hop on the cable car up Mount Srđ for breathtaking panoramic views.
Day 9. Dubrovnik - Zagreb
Savour a delicious breakfast buffet, then take some time to relax before returning your car hire and heading to the airport for your flight from Dubrovnik to Zagreb. Once you've checked in at your hotel near the airport, enjoy your final evening soaking up the last of Croatia’s charm.
Fly from Dubrovnik to Zagreb
Check-in - Hotel Royal Airport
This 4-star hotel, located just 5 minutes from Zagreb Airport, provides convenient accommodations with contemporary comforts. Ideally situated in a peaceful and pleasant neighborhood, this hotel is just about 6 miles from the from the vibrant city center.
Start your day with a buffet breakfast featuring a variety of local and international options. Savor authentic Croatian cuisine crafted from seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, or opt for an international dish from the à la carte menu.
Each air-conditioned room comes equipped with a flat-screen satellite TV, minibar, desk, private bathroom, and hair dryer.
Day 10. Depart Croatia
Your incredible trip to Croatia has unfortunately come to an end. Have one last breakfast at the hotel before departing.
Advertised Great Value Holiday prices are per person based on two people travelling together, unless otherwise noted. Advertised Great Value Holidays are based on select departures as noted on the booking calendar above, where available via the Great Value Holidays website and may not represent current prices.
Great Value Holidays are subject to availability, are capacity controlled, may not be available on every date, and may be restricted to certain hotel room categories. Higher rates may also be available throughout travel period. Full payment is required to fully confirm reservation. Rates cannot be combined with any other discount/promotion, and are valid for new bookings only. Offers may be changed or withdrawn at any time without notice. Website contains special pricing that is exclusively for Internet sale only.
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