Tour Overview
Embark on the "Croatia Express, Self-Drive" tour and explore the stunning landscapes and rich history of Croatia at your own pace. Begin your journey in the vibrant capital, Zagreb, known for its Austro-Hungarian architecture, before heading to the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes National Park. Discover the ancient coastal city of Zadar, with its unique Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun. Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Trogir, a charming town surrounded by water. Experience the historic city of Split, home to the famous Diocletian's Palace, and finally, immerse yourself in the medieval beauty of Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic." This self-drive adventure offers the perfect blend of cultural exploration and natural beauty. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival Zagreb – Plitvice Lakes – Zadar (290Km – 3 Hrs)
Location: Zadar
Accommodation Name: Hotel Porto or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast
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.
Zagreb, the capital city of the Republic of Croatia, is an old Central European city with 900 years of documented history. Visit the charming and picturesque Gornji Grad (‘Upper Town’) and modern Donji Grad (‘Lower Town’), enjoy the town’s beautiful squares, parks and facades of this unique city. To get a deeper insight into Zagreb book our optional tour guide for 2 hours city tour.
If you are a wine connoisseur you cannot miss our optional wine tasting experience in Zagreb. 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.
After visiting the town, depart to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Plitvice Lakes, a national park with high forested mountains featuring a string of 16 beautiful lakes and tarns of crystal blue-green water, with cascading waterfalls and a rich plant and animal life. To learn more about this stunning place take advantage of the optional tour guide.
After this natural paradise, continue to Zadar, an ancient coastal city full of life, located in the region of Dalmatia. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel, then perhaps see its famous ‘Sea Organ’ and ‘Greeting to the Sun’, an architectural delight for the senses.
Overnight in hotel in Zadar on a bed-and-breakfast basis.
Day 2 : Zadar – Sibenik – Trogir (220Km – 2.30Hrs)
Location: Trogir
Accommodation Name: Hotel Neva or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before exploring Zadar (you can book an optional tour guide for 2 hours). Zadar’s old town is located on a narrow peninsula and has the ideal look and feel of an ancient Mediterranean city. Its streets are paved with gleaming white stone, and the high protective walls contain portions dating to Roman and early medieval times. Continue the trip to Sibenik, admiring its privileged location overlooking a large, picturesque bay at the mouth of the River Krka. We recommend a stop at St. Jacobs’ Cathedral, the most important Renaissance monument of Croatia. Continue to Trogir, a living museum and UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as the best preserved Romanesque-Gothic town in Central Europe. Discover this charming town surrounded by water, and admire its various palaces, churches, ancient walls, and imposing castle
Overnight in hotel in Trogir on a bed-and-breakfast basis.
Day 3 : Split – Omis – Dubrovnik (225Km – 3.5Hrs)
Location: Split
Accommodation Name: Hotel Ivka or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, continue to Split, an incredible 1,700-year-old city. 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. Here you will find numerous archaeological, historical and cultural monuments, including the famous Diocletian's Palace. In Split you can take advantage of the optional extras such us private tour guide for 2 hours or wine and oil tasting experience.
Continue to Dubrovnik, with recommended stops at the enchanting seaside towns of Omis, Makarska, Ploce and Neum in Bosnia-Herzegovina.
Overnight in hotel in Dubrovnik on a bed-and-breakfast basis.
Day 4 : Dubrovnik
Location: Dubrovnik
Accommodation Name: Hotel Ivka or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Begin your day with a delicious breakfast before visiting the city. Dubrovnik is a breathtaking sight, surrounded by immense cream-coloured stone walls, interspersed with four gates, three forts, five bastions and 14 square towers. The ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ contains a treasure trove of medieval art and architecture. Take a walk atop the wall surrounding the city for beautiful panoramic views of this spectacular city on the Adriatic.
Don't miss out on our optional tours that are available in Dubrovnik.
Book our 2 hours tour and walk through the cobbled streets accompanied by a professional guide, discovering the merits of Dubrovnik’s past and present. The tour will leave you mesmerised by architectural treasures, artistic intensity and cultural opulence.
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 hotel in Dubrovnik on a bed-and-breakfast basis.
Day 5 : Dubrovnik – Airport Dubrovnik (20 Km – 0.5Hrs)
Location: 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
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Accommodation
4 nights' accommodation in standard hotel categories.
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Meals
4 breakfasts included.
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Car Hire
Unlimited mileage, Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), theft protection (TP), replacement vehicle in case of accident or breakdown, safety equipment (first aid kit, triangle, high visibility vest, fire extinguisher), airport fees, tax & VAT.
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Meet and Greet
Meet and greet on day 1.
What's Not Included
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Ferry Tickets
Ferry tickets are not included.
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Meals Not Mentioned
All meals not mentioned in the included section are excluded.
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City Tours and Excursions
City tours, excursions, and optional extras are not included.
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Car Hire Exclusions
GPS, baby seat/booster, 3rd driver, damage handling fee, fuel, tolls, young driver supplement, additional charges for missing fuel, extremely dirty vehicle, lost car documents, keys, license plates or equipment, empty car battery, 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 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 Zadar:
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Porto or similar 3*
Day 2 Trogir/Split region:
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Neva or similar 3*
Day 3-4 Dubrovnik:
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Ivka or similar 3*
CAR HIRE OPTIONS
Car Group C: VW Golf, Opel Astra or similar
Car Group E: VW Passat, Opel Insignia or similar
OPTIONAL EXTRA:
Pre-night Zadar, bed & breakfast basis:
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Porto or similar 3*
Post-night Dubrovnik, bed & breakfast basis:
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Ivka or similar 3*
Mode of Transport
Travel through Croatia with a self-drive car hire, choosing from options like VW Golf, Opel Astra, VW Passat, or Opel Insignia. The package includes unlimited mileage, CDW, TP, replacement vehicle, safety equipment, airport fees, and tax & VAT.
Accommodation
Enjoy 4 nights' accommodation in standard 3-star hotels, including Hotel Porto in Zadar, Hotel Neva in the Trogir/Split region, and Hotel Ivka in Dubrovnik. Optional pre-night in Zadar and post-night in Dubrovnik are also available.
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1 Zadar:
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Porto or similar 3*
Day 2 Trogir/Split region:
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Neva or similar 3*
Day 3-4 Dubrovnik:
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Ivka or similar 3*
CAR HIRE OPTIONS
Car Group C: VW Golf, Opel Astra or similar
Car Group E: VW Passat, Opel Insignia or similar
OPTIONAL EXTRA:
Pre-night Zadar, bed & breakfast basis:
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Porto or similar 3*
Post-night Dubrovnik, bed & breakfast basis:
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Ivka or similar 3*
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 4 nights' accommodation in 3-star hotels. On Day 1, you will stay at Hotel Porto or a similar hotel in Zadar. On Day 2, the accommodation will be at Hotel Neva or a similar hotel in the Trogir/Split region. For Days 3 and 4, you will stay at Hotel Ivka or a similar hotel in Dubrovnik. ...more ...less
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What car hire options are available for this tour?
You can choose between Car Group C, which includes vehicles like the VW Golf or Opel Astra, and Car Group E, which includes vehicles like the VW Passat or Opel Insignia. The car hire includes unlimited mileage, CDW (Collision Damage Waiver), TP (theft protection), replacement vehicle in case of an accident or breakdown, safety equipment, airport fees, and tax & VAT. ...more ...less
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Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, there are several optional activities available. In Zagreb, you can book a 2-hour city tour or a wine tasting experience. In Zadar, you can book a 2-hour tour guide. In Split, you can opt for a private tour guide for 2 hours or a wine and oil tasting experience. In Dubrovnik, you can book a 2-hour city tour, a 3-hour Cilipi Folklor tour, or a Game of Thrones-themed excursion. ...more ...less
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What meals are included in the tour package?
The tour package includes 4 breakfasts. Other meals are not included and will need to be arranged separately.
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What are the exclusions for the car hire?
The car hire exclusions include GPS, baby seat/booster, 3rd driver, damage handling fee, fuel, tolls, young driver supplement, and additional charges that may occur due to missing fuel, extremely dirty vehicle, lost car documents, keys, license plates or equipment, empty car battery, late car collection and return, and parking fees. ...more ...less
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What should I wear and bring for the tour?
Comfortable and warm clothing is recommended for traveling. Visitors should avoid wearing 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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What are the driver requirements for the car hire?
The minimum age of the driver is 21 years, and the driver must have a valid driver’s license and passport or ID, and have possessed the driver’s license for at least 2 years. A credit card (VISA, MASTERCARD, AMERICAN EXPRESS, or DINERS) is also required.
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What happens on the first day of the tour?
On the first day, you will arrive at Zagreb Airport, where you will be met and greeted by a local representative who will assist you with your car hire and provide information on how to proceed on your departure day. You will then visit Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia, and explore its charming and picturesque Gornji Grad (Upper Town) and modern Donji Grad (Lower Town). After visiting Zagreb, you will depart to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Plitvice Lakes and then continue to Zadar, where you will check into your hotel.
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What are the highlights of Dubrovnik on this tour?
In Dubrovnik, you will explore the city surrounded by immense cream-colored stone walls, interspersed with gates, forts, bastions, and towers. You can take a walk atop the wall surrounding the city for beautiful panoramic views. Optional tours include a 2-hour city tour, a 3-hour Cilipi Folklor tour, and a Game of Thrones-themed excursion.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers
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When are there specific hotel names confirmed?
Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client's arrival
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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.
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Are Visa fees included in the price?
No, visa fees are not included
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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.
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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.
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Are flights included in the tour?
No, they are not included
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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.
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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.
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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.
Croatia Express, Self-Drive
5 Days Starting in Zagreb, Croatia and ending in Dubrovnik, Croatia
Visiting: Zadar, Trogir, Split, Dubrovnik
Tour operator:
Tour code:
32972
Group Type:
Independent
Guide Type:
Self Guided
Age range:
21-
