Winter is a magical time for travel, and Zagreb is a perfect base for exploring Croatia’s quieter side. When it comes to Zagreb winter travel, you’ll find a mix of snowy scenery, cosy traditions, and peaceful attractions. In the cold months, many tourists head to the coast or skip Croatia entirely, which is great news. It means you can enjoy charming towns, fairytale castles, and steaming spas near Zagreb without crowds. With a rental car, you can conveniently explore these peaceful winter destinations. This guide will take you through the best relaxing winter day trips from Zagreb.
Zagreb is an excellent base for winter day trips, offering easy access to diverse landscapes and relaxing escapes just beyond the city.
Winter day trips from Zagreb let you swap the city bustle for peaceful getaways. From a storybook castle reflecting in a frozen lake to a quaint town famous for cream cakes, there’s something for every mood. Here are some of the best winter day trips near Zagreb:
Samobor is a small town located about 25 kilometres west of Zagreb, an easy 30-minute drive for a winter day trip. Nestled among the hills, it is inviting in the colder months, with a cozy old-town atmosphere centered around a picturesque main square, colorful historic buildings, and a Baroque church rising above the rooftops. A narrow stream winds through the town, perfect for slow walks.
The best way to experience Samobor is to wander. Winter days are ideal for stepping into a warm café to try the town’s most famous specialty, kremšnita, a rich vanilla custard cake with flaky pastry that’s particularly comforting on cold days. You can also sample Bermet, a traditional spiced wine aperitif.
Take a short walk toward the Samobor Castle ruins, just outside town, to experience a blend of nature and history. The climb is brief but can be slippery in winter, so sturdy shoes are recommended. Even without reaching the ruins, the wooded slopes and quiet streets provide a pleasant setting for a stroll.
Trakošćan Castle is located about 80 kilometres north of Zagreb. It’s a 1 to 1 hour and 30-minute drive through the rolling countryside of Varaždin County, near the Slovenian border. The journey is part of the appeal, passing through quiet villages and hills before revealing one of Croatia’s most striking landmarks.
Perched above a lake, this 13th-century castle looks straight out of a storybook. In winter, especially after snowfall, it becomes truly magical. With far fewer visitors during the colder months, the peaceful setting feels even more enchanting, as the castle’s pale walls and towers stand out against bare trees and muted winter tones.
Begin your visit by admiring the castle from across Lake Trakošćan. In winter, the lake is often still or partially frozen, creating a mirror-like surface. A flat walking path circles the lake and takes about an hour to complete. You’ll get ever-changing views of the castle and the surrounding countryside. The walk is easy and suitable even for those who aren’t avid hikers, with benches along the way to rest. On colder days, you may notice mist rising from the water or hear only the soft crunch of snow underfoot.
After your walk, head uphill to explore the castle interior, which now functions as a museum. Stepping inside is a welcome way to warm up, and the exhibits, such as furnished rooms, antique weapons, and family portraits, add historical depth to the visit. From the castle terrace, sweeping views extend over forested hills, often dusted in snow, which is perfect for winter photography. Every angle is postcard-worthy, with turrets, frozen details, and icicles catching the light.
Varaždin lies approximately 80 kilometres northeast of Zagreb, which is a 2-hour drive. Often nicknamed “Little Vienna,” Varaždin is a refined Baroque city with a rich history and some of the best-preserved old-town architecture in Croatia. In the 18th century, it briefly served as the capital, a legacy still visible in its elegant palaces, churches, and orderly town layout. Winter is an especially pleasant time to visit, as crowds are minimal and the city’s pastel facades and cobblestone streets are calm.
Begin your visit around Korzo, the main square, and wander outward at a relaxed pace. You’ll pass the Town Hall, historic churches, and rows of Baroque mansions, with plenty of hidden courtyards. One of the highlights is Stari Grad, Varaždin’s medieval fortress set within a park at the edge of the old town. Its white walls and round towers have a storybook-like appearance. In winter, the surrounding park is serene and hushed. Inside the fortress is the City Museum, though even a walk around the moat and walls is enjoyable if you prefer to stay outdoors.
Varaždin is also known for its strong music and arts culture, which continues year-round in smaller, indoor settings during winter. After exploring, settle into a traditional café to warm up with coffee and štrukli or a slice of cake. Another great stop is Varaždin’s cemetery park, designed as a landscaped garden and particularly tranquil in the colder months.
Krapinske Toplice is situated approximately 45 kilometres northwest of Zagreb, a 45-minute drive to the heart of the Zagorje region. The name “Toplice” literally means “thermal baths,” and this small spa town has been renowned for its healing waters since the 18th century. In winter, the experience is especially appealing, as the contrast between cold air and steaming pools creates instant comfort. Surrounded by gentle hills that are often misty or lightly dusted with snow, the town has a calm atmosphere that encourages you to slow down and unwind.
The main attraction is the Aquae Vivae thermal complex, a modern indoor-outdoor spa with a wide variety of pools and water features. A day pass allows access to multiple pools of different temperatures, along with jets, whirlpools, and relaxation areas. Floating in warm, mineral-rich water while winter scenery surrounds you is one of the highlights of a visit here. The complex caters to both families and adults, with play areas for children as well as sauna zones and wellness sections for those seeking deeper relaxation.
For a quieter experience, some hotels in Krapinske Toplice offer their own spa facilities, including private hot tubs and panoramic wellness areas that can sometimes be accessed without staying overnight. Between spa sessions, you can take a short walk through the town or relax in a local restaurant sampling Zagorje cuisine, such as turkey with mlinci or traditional strudels.
Medvednica Nature Park begins right at the northern edge of Zagreb, with its slopes rising from the city and the highest peak, Sljeme, located about 20 kilometres away. Reaching the upper areas takes about 30 to 40 minutes by car, while the modern cable car takes about 15 to 20 minutes straight into the mountains.
Medvednica is a forested nature park that feels worlds away despite overlooking the city. In winter, Sljeme often has snow even when Zagreb below does not. Locals flock here for hiking, sledging, and simple walks through snow-covered forests, yet the mountain is large enough that you can always find quiet trails.
Even short walks near the upper parking areas or cable car station lead to peaceful woodland paths and viewpoints. The stillness of the winter forest, broken only by the sound of footsteps on snow or birdsong, creates a deeply calming atmosphere. Trails are well-marked, though winter conditions mean it’s essential to watch for ice and exercise caution.
One of the most rewarding parts of a Medvednica visit is stopping at a mountain hut. Traditional planinarski doms, such as Puntijarka or Grafičar, serve hearty Croatian comfort food like warm soups, stews, sausages, and filling local dishes.
With so many lovely options, how do you decide which winter day trip suits you best? Consider a few factors to pick a trip that matches your interests and comfort:
First, decide if you’re in the mood for nature or pampering. If you crave outdoor beauty and a gentle activity, places like Medvednica or Trakošćan Castle will delight you with their snowy landscapes and leisurely walks. If you’d rather stay warm and indulge, a thermal spa town like Krapinske Toplice is ideal for relaxation. And if you want culture and architecture, the historic towns of Varaždin or Samobor offer a charming backdrop without requiring too much physical effort.
Some spots, like Samobor and Medvednica, are about half an hour away. These are great choices if you want a shorter day or are travelling with kids who might not handle long drives. Others are around 1 to 1 hour and 30 minutes away, still manageable as a day trip, but requiring a bit more time on the road.
Public transport is available to several of these destinations, but not all routes are frequent in winter. If you rely on public transportation, check schedules in advance and plan your day accordingly. If you rent a car in Zagreb, you’ll have more flexibility. You can combine multiple stops like Varaždin and Trakošćan in one day, which is harder by public transport. Also note, driving in winter in this region is generally fine. Roads are well-maintained, but after heavy snowfall. You’ll want to drive cautiously or consider postponing a trip to hilly areas until roads are cleared.
Tailor the trip to who’s going, as different destinations suit different travel stles. For families, comfort and flexibility are key, and a family car rental in Zagreb can make day trips easier. Samobor is great for kids with its castle ruins and famous desserts, while Krapinske Toplice is a hit thanks to its warm pools and water attractions.
For couples, romantic choices include a peaceful walk around Trakošćan, a shared spa experience, or an evening stroll through Varaždin’s historic streets. Solo travelers and photographers may prefer Medvednica or Trakošćan for their winter landscapes, while culture lovers will enjoy the local charm of Varaždin or Samobor.
To make your winter outing as smooth and enjoyable as possible, keep these simple tips in mind. They’ll help you stay comfortable, safe, and stress-free during your day trip:
Zagreb and its surroundings prove that winter travel is one of the most rewarding seasons to explore. With fewer tourists around and a landscape transformed by frost and snow, you can enjoy a more authentic and peaceful experience. These day trips are for relaxation and slow travel. Unlike the rush of summer sightseeing, winter encourages you to take it easy.
Discover new places and experience the off-season magic by renting a car in Zagreb with Final Rentals. With Final Rentals, booking a car online is fast and simple. Select Zagreb Airport as your pickup location, enter your travel dates, and choose a vehicle for your trip. Book and manage your car rental at any time. Download the Final Rentals app on Google Play and the App Store.
