Exploring Croatia by Campervan – Starting from Zagreb

Croatia covers an area of around 56’594 km² and is about 1.4 times the size of Switzerland, yet with only 3.8 million inhabitants it is far less populated. For campers, this means more untouched nature and vast landscapes that are much less densely populated than Switzerland’s Central Plateau. The geography is as diverse as in hardly any other country in Europe. In the Pannonian Basin around Zagreb, flat to gently rolling terrain stretches out, making it ideal for relaxed first driving days. The Dinaric Alps separate the inland region from the coast. The rugged limestone scenery is reminiscent in parts of the Swiss Pre-Alps. Nevertheless, the landscape offers a completely unique and wild flora. The Adriatic coast boasts more than 1’200 islands and a coastline of over 6’000 kilometres (including the islands). It offers a maritime landscape that is truly inspiring. Croatians, famous for their warm hospitality, create the perfect atmosphere for a holiday on wheels with their relaxed way of life.

The three climate zones

In Zagreb and the surrounding hinterland, you can expect a continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. In the Dinaric Alps, a mountain climate prevails, and it is significantly cooler with higher levels of precipitation. Even in summer, nights here can cool down considerably compared to the coast. The Adriatic coast offers a Mediterranean climate with mild, often rainy winters (approx. 10 °C) and hot, dry summers. Dalmatia is considered the warmest region, with water temperatures from June to September being ideal for swimming.

Zagreb – the urban heart of Croatia

Before heading out into nature and towards the coast with your rented camper, you should definitely experience the unique atmosphere of Zagreb. Situated at a vibrant crossroads between Central Europe and the Adriatic, the city stands as the heart of the country’s economy, culture and science. The Croatian capital is famous for its lively coffee culture. Along the bustling Tkalčićeva Street, countless bars and cafés line up, inviting you to relax and unwind with a leisurely “Pomalo” – the Croatian way of saying “take it easy”. Anyone looking for fresh ingredients for the camper kitchen should not miss the Dolac Market, a lively farmers’ market.

The classic Adriatic route

This route first takes you around 140 kilometres south of Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an absolute highlight. 16 emerald-green, cascading lakes are connected by countless waterfalls. After another 130 kilometres, you will reach the coastal city of Zadar. Here, the sea literally makes music itself. The Sea Organ creates harmonious sounds through wave movement in underground pipes, while right next to it the light installation “Greeting to the Sun” offers a fascinating spectacle at dusk. About 90 kilometres further south lies Krka National Park. The park’s main attraction is its seven waterfalls. The most spectacular waterfalls you simply must see are Skradinski Buk and Roški Slap. Along the Krka River and its lakes, you will come across many old fortress ruins, mills and a few monasteries that tell stories from times long past. The journey continues along the toll-free coastal road to Split. The entire old town of Split is built into the ancient Diocletian’s Palace, where Roman history meets modern life.

Natural wonders away from the crowds

Those who want to leave the tourist paths behind will find genuine hidden gems in Croatia that are ideally accessible by camper. An absolute highlight is the Zrmanja Canyon in northern Dalmatia. Often referred to as the “Winnetou Canyon”, the rocky plateau above the Zrmanja River offers one of the most dramatic views in the country. Croatia shows a completely different, gentler side in the Lonjsko Polje Nature Park, southeast of Zagreb. This vast wetland is one of the best-preserved floodplains in Europe and a paradise for storks and rare bird species. In villages such as Čigoč, traditional wooden houses stand at the heart of small, nature-oriented camper stops, offering deep insight into rural life. Those who love the mountains but still want to keep the coast in sight should head for Northern Velebit National Park.