Essential Zagreb Day Trips for 2026
✨ Escape the city and uncover Croatia’s natural wonders & Slovenia’s alpine gems. From UNESCO lakes to fairytale castles, your perfect adventure starts here.
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Did you know?
Local Insight:Zagreb is uniquely positioned as a gateway to two countries. Within two hours, you can be hiking in a Slovenian alpine valley or marveling at a Croatian UNESCO World Heritage site, making it one of Europe’s most versatile bases for day trips.
Highest Rated & Most Popular Tours
1.Top Rated – from €61 per person
Zagreb: Rastoke & Plitvice Lakes Guided Tour with Ticket
- ⭐ 4.9 stars from over 1,800 reviews
- Entry ticket to Plitvice Lakes National Park included
- Visit the charming “Little Plitvice” village of Rastoke
- Guided walking tour with a licensed English-speaking guide
- Enjoy a scenic electric boat ride across Lake Kozjak
- Hotel pickup and drop-off available (small-group option)
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2.Top Rated – from €71 per person
From Zagreb: Ljubljana with Funicular and Lake Bled
- ⭐ 4.9 stars from over 600 reviews
- Ride the funicular to Ljubljana Castle for panoramic views
- Guided walking tour of Ljubljana’s charming old town
- Visit stunning Lake Bled in the Julian Alps
- Free time to explore, swim, or take an optional Pletna boat ride
- Taste the famous Bled cream cake at a lakeside café
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Feeling the Vibe?
Lake Bled’s iconic island church isn’t just for photos. Local tradition says if you ring the bell inside the Church of the Assumption three times and make a wish, it will come true. Many visitors combine their Plitvice day trips with this magical Slovenian experience.
Luxury & Premium Experiences
3.Private & Exclusive – from €176 per person
From Zagreb to the Center of the World-Explore North Croatia
- ⭐ 5.0 stars for an exclusive private tour
- Visit Ludbreg, officially designated the “Center of the World”
- Explore the fairytale medieval Trakošćan Castle
- Guided tour of baroque Varaždin’s architecture and ancient sites
- Private driver dedicated exclusively to your group’s needs
- Escape large tour groups for an intimate, personalized experience
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4.Private Day Tour – from €195 per person
From Zagreb: Ljubljana and Lake Bled Private Day Tour
- ⭐ 5.0 stars for a completely flexible private experience
- Explore Ljubljana’s Old Town and Triple Bridge at your own pace
- Enjoy a traditional Pletna boat ride to Bled Island
- Visit Bled Castle for stunning panoramic Alpine views
- Personalized itinerary with an experienced driver-guide
- Comfortable private transportation door-to-door from Zagreb
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A Secret for You…
Trakošćan Castle, Croatia’s most visited castle, has a romantic legend. It’s said to be named after the knights of Drachenstein who ruled the region in the Middle Ages. The castle’s reflection in its own lake creates a perfect mirror image, making it a photographer’s dream.
Affordable & Budget-Friendly
5.Budget Pick – from €51 per person
From Zagreb: Rastoke and Plitvice lakes Guided Day Trip
- ⭐ 4.9 stars from over 500 reviews
- Explore the fairytale waterfalls village of Rastoke
- Marvel at the 16 interconnected lakes of Plitvice National Park
- Professional guide shares Croatian culture and history
- Includes a memorable hike, train, and boat ride within the park
- Excellent value for a full 10-hour UNESCO experience
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6.Small Group – from €99 per person
From Zagreb: Ljubljana and Lake Bled Small Group Guided Tour
- ⭐ 4.9 stars for an intimate small-group experience
- Group limited to a maximum of 8 guests
- Guided tour of Ljubljana’s iconic bridges and riverside charm
- Scenic drive through majestic Slovenian mountains
- Ride a traditional pletna boat to Bled Island
- Free time to wander Lake Bled’s shore and taste local cake
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The Best Part? ✨
Zagreb’s location is a traveler’s secret weapon. In one day, you can experience the alpine serenity of Slovenia and the thunderous waterfalls of Croatia, all without changing hotels. It’s the ultimate hub for diverse European adventures.
⭐ Our Top Pick (Likely to Sell Out!)
⭐Small-Group Excellence – from €63 per person
Zagreb: Plitvice with Ticket & Rastoke Tour for Max 8 people
- ⭐ 5.0 stars from over 580 perfect reviews
- Intimate small-group tour limited to just 8 people
- Plitvice Lakes National Park entry ticket is included
- Guided visit to the historic village of Rastoke
- Perfect for solo travelers seeking a safe, friendly experience
- Convenient pickup and drop-off from Zagreb locations
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What is the best day trip from Zagreb for first-time visitors?
The Plitvice Lakes & Rastoke tour is a top choice. As a UNESCO site with stunning waterfalls and included entry tickets, it offers incredible value. For a two-country adventure, the Ljubljana and Lake Bled tour is unbeatable.
Are Zagreb day trips worth it, or should I stay in the city?
Absolutely worth it. Zagreb is a fantastic base. Within two hours, you can be at a world-class national park or in a charming Alpine country. These tours maximize your time and provide transport, making exploration effortless.
Should I book my Plitvice Lakes tour in advance?
Yes, especially for small-group tours. Plitvice is Croatia’s most popular attraction, and daily visitor numbers are limited. Booking early secures your spot and often includes skip-the-line entry tickets, avoiding disappointment.
Can I do a day trip to Slovenia from Zagreb without a visa?
Yes, Croatia and Slovenia are both in the EU Schengen Area. Most travelers with a valid passport for the EU/US/UK/etc. can cross the border freely on these guided tours without needing a separate visa.
What should I pack for a Plitvice Lakes or Lake Bled day trip?
Comfort is key. Wear sturdy walking shoes for Plitvice’s wooden paths. Pack layers—mountain weather can change quickly. Don’t forget a camera, water, and for Bled, swimwear in summer for a dip in the lake!
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Category: Europe, Croatia
Latest post update: January 2026
