One sure way to experience Croatia in all of its glory is by car – but what is the best route?
Though most of you have already sorted your summer holiday plans, from booking accommodations, tours, and travel from point A to B, one thing we will encourage you to consider incorporating into your itinerary this summer is a Croatian road trip. And what’s the best possible route in the country? From Zagreb to Dubrovnik, of course, with mandatory stops at Plitvice Lakes and the Dalmatian capital, Split.
For many of you flying to Croatia, you’ll land at the airport of our capital city, Zagreb – and what a great place to start your journey. Located in the northwest of Croatia, Zagreb is a bustling metropolis with just over one million residents. Boasting 17 city districts marked by either the Sava river or Medvenica mountain, Zagreb is full of culture, history, open-air markets, traditional hotels, breathtaking parks, and cemeteries you could get lost in for days. And did you know Zagreb also has the most museums per capita than anywhere else in the world? Not to mention you could tour the city alone based on its hearty local cuisine. Once you’ve eaten your way through the capital and walked at least 15 kilometers to every corner (but don’t worry, there have fabulous public transportation), it’s time to kiss Zagreb goodbye and welcome a new destination just a two-hour drive away – Plitvice Lakes National Park.
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Now, one of the reasons many of you might have first heard of Croatia is because of our world renown national park, Plitvice Lakes. On a scenic drive from the capital through the thick of Croatia’s interior, you’ll arrive at Plitvice’s 16 cascading lakes. Known as the oldest and largest national park in the country, Plitvice was established in 1949 and was added to UNESCO’s list of World Heritage in 1979. While the lakes alone cover two square kilometers, the park also boasts unique flora and fauna and is the home to many endemic species. Bringing in around one million visitors a year, Plitvice is an attraction you don’t want to miss.
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After you’ve spent your time at Plitvice, which we encourage should be at least a full day (if not more), taking the scenic route down to Split, Dalmatia’s capital and the home to Roman Emperor Diocletian is a must. Less than three hours away from the famous park, Split is Croatia’s bustling and best-known port town. Not only is the historic core of the city situated within the walls of Diocletian’s Palace, but Split’s leading waterfront promenade is not only lined with palm trees but also with cafes for prime people-watching afternoons. Equipped with beaches, boat rides, islands within your reach, historic neighborhoods, the largest shopping malls in the Dalmatian region, a thriving restaurant scene and vibrant nightlife, how could you pass on a pit stop here?
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While we want to argue that the best part of the drive is next, well, we’ll let you see for yourself. Driving down the coast from Split to Dubrovnik is truly one of the most breathtaking experiences you’ll encounter in your lifetime, and with 4 hours to stare outside the window and stop at the villages spotting the seaside when you desire, this is a memory you’ll keep close to your heart forever. In just four hours from Split, you’ll be walking the walls of the Pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik. Made even more famous for acting as Kings Landing in the cult TV series ‘Game of Thrones’, Dubrovnik is a symbol of Croatian tourism – and it’s not hard to see why. While walking the walls is a must, getting lost in the steep alleyways of the Old Town, riding a cable car for the best views over the city and hiring a boat to take your around the Eliphiti islands is a no-brainer. And if you want to do a Game of Thrones tour, we won’t judge you.
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The best part of this entire trip, however, is that you don’t have to do any of the driving at all! By choosing a private transfer, and especially Solo Transfers, you and your party can sit back, relax, and take in all of the beauty surrounding you on the Croatian road trip of your dreams. With fixed rates including luggage, vehicle options that can carry up to 8 passengers, and a driver who will coordinate the itinerary to your wishes, you won’t have to do much more than press ‘book.’
For more information on the offer at Solo Transfers, check out their official website and book with them for the summer season ahead!
