Transfers Countries Croatia ZagrebZagreb to Ljubljana

Private car transfer from Zagreb to Ljubljana

Door-to-door
in 1 h 50 min

From €34
per seat

Comfortable
car

One way

One wayReturnMulti-city

New

One way

Cancel for free 24 hours before departure

Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice 2024

Excellent

Trip Information

Pick-up

Your driver will meet you at your address in Zagreb.

Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage

Trip

You’ll travel in comfort for 1 h 50 min.

Optional sight-seeing
Clean, comfortable car
Professional driver
Bottled water
Child seats
Prepared for handicapped
Smoke-free
Pet friendly

Drop-off

Your driver will drop you off at your address in Ljubljana.

Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage

In total

142 km1 h 50 min

Overview: a car trip from Zagreb to Ljubljana

Slovenia is a paradise where natural wonders work in harmony with eco-friendly cities. Croatia is a magnet for sun worshippers, split between its bustling towns in the north and its Mediterranean shores down south. The 86-mile (138-km) journey from Zagreb to Ljubljana won't just transport you between the political headquarters but also the cultural capitals of these two fascinating nations.

Once you zig-zag out of Zagreb's busy avenues, a sea of green remains a constant in your car window. Tree-lined roads, rolling hills, sprawling fields, dense woodlands, and lush vegetation make up this smooth road, gliding along the landscape. Charming villages nestled amongst the rugged terrain offer you the chance to step back in time and refuel with a traditional hearty meal before continuing your drive through the rural environment and into the urban streets of Ljubljana.

Unsurprisingly, this scenic venture is a comfortable tour that can live long in your memories. But it'll only happen if you find the best mode of transportation to suit your needs and preferences. So, buckle up and get ready to uncover how you can travel from Zagreb to Ljubljana and all the sites in between.

About Ljubljana

After your stunning Zagreb to Ljubljana transfer, you'll land in Slovenia's capital. It sits in the heart of the country along the Ljubljanica River, where around 290,000 residents live. Despite being centrally located, the nation's small size means it's only 26 miles (42 km) from the Austrian and 52 miles (83.7 km) from the Italian borders.

Early Ljubljana

The Celtic tribes were the first known settlers in the Ljubljana region. However, the Romans first built a town here named Emona in the 1st century AD. The area flourished due to its position en route to Pannonia, a Roman stronghold. After its collapse in 476 AD, the region witnessed several invasions, and the Hun tribe destroyed the city in the 5th century.

The town was mentioned again in the 12th century, and Ljubljana was granted city rights in 1220. The Renaissance brought mixed fortunes as the then-ruling Habsburg Empire constructed many significant and elegant buildings. Unfortunately, its beauty was short-lived as an earthquake flattened the city in the 1500s, yet this led to the development of baroque-style houses you can still admire today.

Recent and modern Ljubljana

The 20th century was a stormy period in Ljubljana's history. First, it fell into the hands of Yugoslavia after World War I. During World War II, Italy and Germany occupied the region. It took until the collapse of communism in 1991 for Slovenia to break free and for Ljubljana to become its political capital.

Today, Ljubljana is seemingly trapped in a fairytale, with cobbled lanes twisting through Disney-like passages and a carefree vibe flowing as freely as the emerald waters gushing through the city's heart. You'll rub your eyes in amazement as four almost-real-looking dragon statues stand proudly in this mystic city. Outdoor cafes serving trendy coffees and regular street food markets serving locally sourced products make this pristine city anything but dull!

Language: Slovene
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Time zone: GMT+1
Climate: Oceanic
Plug types: C, E, and F
Fun Fact: "Ljubljana" means "beloved" in Slovene

Zagreb to Ljubljana: travel tips

If you've traveled from Zagreb to Ljubljana in the past, you'll know it's not always the most straightforward journey, especially when traveling in the hot season. If not, read our insider tips to avoid any headaches that might occur en route!

Beat the heat

The average temperature on the road from Zagreb to Ljubljana from May until September is 72° Fahrenheit (22°C). It's also surprisingly humid, meaning traveling without air conditioning and essentials can be overwhelming.

If traveling by public transport, ensure your carriage has air conditioning, as some older models only have small windows. Alternatively, you can opt for Daytrip with a private vehicle and modern conveniences. No matter which mode you choose, pack a light backpack with essentials such as water, sunscreen, and sunglasses.

Venture off the tourist map

When you look at a tourist map of Europe, with all the “major” points of interest, Slovenia appears to be an uncharted area. However, several charming towns and villages sit on the road from Zagreb to Ljubljana.

Skofja Loka is one of Slovenia's oldest settlements. It dates back to the 10th century, and today, the enchanting, colorful old town still seems trapped in the past. If you want more hustle and bustle, Kranj is the nation's fourth-largest urban space, surrounded by snow-capped mountains even in the warm months!

Get into a sustainable mindset

Scientists consistently rank Slovenia among Europe's top 10 most sustainable countries. You may be surprised by how seriously they respect the land.

Cycling is one of the primary modes of transportation here. You can even hire a bike for only $1! Most foods and products are locally sourced or handmade, and you'll always have three trash cans, general waste, recycling, and compost, on every street corner. Please pay attention to their ways of life and travel more sustainably!

How to get from Zagreb to Ljubljana

Getting from Zagreb to Ljubljana doesn't require much stress and planning. But depending on your needs and budget, you'll still want the best travel method for you.

Trains from Zagreb to Ljubljana

The train is the cheapest way to travel between Zagreb and Ljubljana. Many backpackers and interrail users use this line, so remember to book a seat in advance when traveling in the summer.

You can select between a budget-friendly or comfortable service on this route. Utilizing the Ljubljana Special with Croatian Railway HZPP is the more affordable option from Zagreb Glavni Kolodvor to Ljubljana Railway Station. You can only purchase tickets for this route at the station. OBB offers a quicker and more comfortable service with air conditioning and e-tickets.

Cheapest/average price: $10-$27 (€9.20-€24.85)
Fastest/average duration: 2 hours, 7 minutes; 2 hours, 15 minutes
First/last departure: 7:05 AM-7:38 PM

Buses from Zagreb to Ljubljana

Buses can also be a solid, budget-friendly option when traveling from Zagreb to Ljubljana. Flixbus, Europe's most expansive bus network, operates on this route, offering low fares, free WiFi, and up to two pieces of luggage per passenger. All buses depart Autobusni Kolodvor Zagreb and arrive at Ljubljana Bus Station.

You can also opt for a shuttle service. GoOpti is the primary firm that travels the 86-mile (138-km) journey in around 2.5 hours and can even transfer you to Ljubljana Airport. The cost can vary from $27 to $71(€25-€65) for the ride.

Cheapest/average bus price: $11-$26 (€10-€24)
Fastest/average duration: 2 hours, 15 minutes; 2 hours, 50 minutes
First/last departure: 2:00 AM-10:30 PM

Daytrip from Zagreb to Ljubljana

Daytrip is best if you prioritize speed, convenience, comfort—or all three. Our door-to-door service is the fastest travel method, taking only 1 hour and 50 minutes. Without our flexible schedule, you can travel between the cities in the morning, noon, or night, so you don't have to waste a day of your vacation planning around transport.

After your professional driver greets you with a smile and handles your luggage, you can explore the mesmerizing sights and cities along the journey. As you won't get back behind the wheel, you can sample delicious beers at the Lasko Brewery, indulge in a fascinating history lesson at Otocec Castle, or tick off one of Europe's most breathtaking bucket list experiences, admiring beautiful Lake Bled.

Seat from: $39 (€36)
English-speaking driver
Clean, sanitized, smoke-free car
Equipped for pets, children, groups, and those with limited mobility
24/7 customer service
Free cancellation 24 hours before departure!

Things to do when you get to Ljubljana

The Slovenian capital's old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and welcomes four times as many visitors as its population. With this insight, you can expect a packed travel timetable after your Zagreb to Ljubljana transfer!

Climb Ljubljana Castle

The best way to start an adventure in a new city is to view it from above. Ljubljana Castle dates back to the 10th century but towers almost 390 feet (119 m) above the old town today. A walk up the leafy walkways with fragrant woody aromas transports your mind miles from the bustling streets. If you're feeling in the vacation mood, you can catch the funicular to the summit.

Once here, you have stunning views of the castle and the cityscape, especially during sunset. Of course, you can tour the fort and explore its historical walls, but if you want a unique experience, check out the picnic among the castle's grapevines!

Wander Tivoli Park

Tivoli Park is Ljubljana's most substantial and gorgeous green space, perfect for relaxation and recreation. French engineer Jean Blanchard designed the setting in the 19th century, featuring wide promenades, landscaped gardens, and numerous statues.

Tivoli Mansion sits in its center, housing the International Centre of Graphic Arts. The park is a favorite spot for locals and tourists, offering plenty of walking trails, freshly cut grass for picnics, and a playground, ideal when traveling as a family.

Get lost in the Old Town

Ljubljana's cityscape was significantly altered after World War I. The works of Joze Plecnik's designs have landed the setting on the sought-after UNESCO World Heritage List.

The fairytale historical quarter is a delightful labyrinth of narrow, cobbled streets, charming squares, and colorful buildings. Major highlights to look out for are the Robba Fountain, the Town Hall, the Triple Bridge, and the Ljubljana Cathedral.

If you're fortunate enough to visit on a Friday from spring to fall, visiting the Open Kitchen Fest is a must. Endless street food stalls pop up in Pogacar Square, and live bands add to the festival atmosphere!

Take a day trip to Lake Bled

Lake Bled may be over 30 miles (48 km) from Ljubljana, but it's undoubtedly worth the scenic venture. One of the world's most surreal locations is less than an hour from the capital.

The picturesque chapel floating in the baby blue waters takes center stage. But the surrounding Slovenian Alps offer a postcard view from wherever you wander. You can spend the day relaxing in the sunshine or swimming in the lukewarm waters. For a more thrilling experience, hire kayaks and make your way to an island, or hike up to Lake Bled Castle for views that'll earn thousands of Instagram likes!

When is the best time to visit Ljubljana?

Excluding microstates, Slovenia is the 11th-least visited nation in continental Europe. Its commitment to sustainability has prevented tourists from overrunning the land. Therefore, you can travel from Zagreb to Ljubljana in the summer and have an unforgettable experience.

However, traveling in the spring has upsides compared to its peak summer season. Lake Bled is likely on your travel schedule, and due to its close-knit stature, it can feel overcrowded during the peak season. The average daily high temperature of 70° Fahrenheit (21°C) is pleasant for water activities and more enjoyable for lounging in the sun all day.

There's also a bubbling atmosphere around Ljubljana in the spring. It's the first time in months that locals can sit on outdoor terraces, eating or drinking, due to the cold winter climate. If you're a food enthusiast, traveling between April and June is ideal, as seasonal produce such as organic cherries, vibrant salads, and juicy beef will be at their peak!

Questions & Answers about Traveling from Zagreb to Ljubljana

Can you take a day trip from Zagreb to Ljubljana?

Due to proximity and the robust transportation network between the two cities, it's possible to take a day from Zagreb to Ljubljana. Daytrip's private door-to-door service can transfer you in only 1 hour and 50 minutes. Ljubljana is a compact town and one of Europe's smallest capitals, so you can easily explore its highlights on foot within a day.

How long is the train from Zagreb to Ljubljana?

The average train ride from Zagreb to Ljubljana takes 2 hours and 15 minutes with Croatian Railway HZPP. However, some faster trains with OBB can travel between the cities in as little as 2 hours and 7 minutes. Check both websites for the timetable and book a seat early, as this route is popular with interrail users.

Is there a shuttle bus from Zagreb to Ljubljana?

Yes, GoOpti offers a shuttle bus from Zagreb to Ljubljana. The average journey takes 2 hours and 30 minutes, and you can expect the cost to be between $27 and $71 (€25-€65) for the one-way trip. Alternatively, you can opt for a cheaper Flixbus service or Daytrip's door-to-door service to stop at landmarks en route.

What is the distance from Zagreb to Ljubljana?

The shortest road distance from Zagreb to Ljubljana is only 86 miles (138 km), and it can take 1 hour and 50 minutes to drive safely. Remember that traveling during rush hour traffic from 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM and 4:30 to 6:30 PM can increase the duration to 2.5 hours.

Can I get a flight from Zagreb Airport to Ljubljana Airport?

As of 2024, no direct flight runs from Zagreb Airport to Ljubljana Airport. One will unlikely appear since getting from one city to the next is made simple with its extensive transportation network. Also, Slovenia's eco-friendly views don't encourage flying for a short distance.

Which is more beautiful, Zagreb or Ljubljana?

Ljubljana is considered more beautiful than Zagreb. Its fairytale old town combines classic baroque and Habsburg-inspired architecture with rainbow-colored buildings. However, Zagreb is also picturesque, especially in the rustic Upper Town, home to cobbled lanes and terracotta roofs on medieval buildings.

Visit these sights on the way

Samobor

The old artesian town of Samobor is known for its gastronomic specialties, with culinary delicacies dating back to the 19th century. This tidy, well-kept suburb of Zagreb offers a welcomed break from city life. A town of gourmet tradition

Otocec Castle

Otočec Castle is a luxurious 13th century castle turned hotel. Its earliest foundations were built in the Middle Ages, making it a historical beauty. The only water castle in Slovenia

Lasko Brewery

Get a real taste for Slovenia’s history and culture - through its beer! Slovenian Gold

Skofja Loka

Nicknamed "colorful Loka", the medieval town of Skofja Loka is the best preserved town in all of Slovenia. Revel in the red roofs and city walls as you make your way through Skofja Loka's Gothic old town. The medieval beauty

Kranj

Kranj is Slovenia's 4th largest and most industrialized city. It's a modern town where old meets new. City with breathtaking medieval skylines

Lake Bled

Lake Bled naturally formed from the waters released by the melting Bohinj glacier. This emerald-green lake offers a picture-perfect natural beauty that you won't want to miss. Storybook landscape among the Alps

Why travelers love this route

5,100+ reviews

4 reviews for this route
2,175 travelers took this route with us

Oct 2, 2025

Great transfer option.

“I used this service for a transfer from Split in Croatia to Perast Montenegro. My experience was exceptional. My driver Bojan was helpful, informative and ensured my journey was comfortable and enjoyable. I highly recommend the service.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Robyn C

Sep 20, 2025

It was a fantastic trip.

“We were extremely satisfied with the quality of service we received from Day Trip. We had two Day Trip rides on August 31 from Athens to Lefkada and September 7 from Lefkada back to Athens. Both trips included stops at scenic sites in Greece. Both drivers were excellent and accommodating. However, we’d especially like to recognize Panos Peppas, who was our driver from Lefkada to Athens. Panos was incredibly nice & pleasant and delivered outstanding customer service, which included handling all of luggage, providing us with cold waters throughout the trip, providing us protein bars, providing us with printed materials on the Corinth Canal (one of scenic stops), looking up and providing us with terminal & gate info for our flight back home and providing us with a recipe for tzatziki.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Daydream20046758137

Sep 15, 2025

Best transport company anywhere

“We absolutely love this company and have used it many times over the years to get from A to B without the hassle of hiring a car ourselves. Excellent drivers every time. Efficient and professional. It’s worth every penny and we can honestly recommend Day Trip to everyone. It’s 5 star rating is well deserved.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Mary L

Aug 20, 2025

Excellent experience in traveling

“We traveled from Nuremberg to Munich in a beautiful Audi. Driver picked us at our hotel at the exact time requested. Got us to Munich in plenty of time for our next tour. Driver made sure we were comfortable”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Steve N

Apr 22, 2025

Reasonably Priced and Safe Transportation

“Gonzalo from daytrip was our driver and he was absolutely amazing. He went over and beyond trying to locate us as our service wasn't so good on our phones. He patiently awaited our arrival to the lobby so he could take us from Tulum Dreams Resort to our other hotel in cancun an hour and a half away near the airport prior to our departure flight home. He was polite, respectful and kind. Made sure we were comfortable during our long ride. Fast and to the point. I recommend this company as finding a one way ride from Tulum to Cancun isn't easy or cheap and this company provides a great service for a great price. I will definitely be using them again whenever I'm in the Cancun/Tulum area. Thank you DayTrip and Gonzola.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler COCO

Apr 2, 2025

Daytrip never disappoints

“We were picked up by Marianna to drive us from Heraklion to Chania. The weather was terrible & due to this Marianna arrived a few minutes late. She contacted me to advise of this. Marianna lives in Chana and she made our trip very interesting by informing us of local things to do and see in Chania. Marianna is a safe driver and we all felt comfortable with the speed she drove at and how good her driving was in heavy rain. She is a lovely person with fluent English. We highly recommend Daytrips and if you are in Heraklion or Chania please make sure you ask for Marianna.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Julie M

Feb 4, 2022

A service that can't be bettered

“We travelled from Zagreb to Ljubljana. This is an excellent private transfer service. From start to finish we could not have wanted anything more. The booking was simple. We needed a long distance car at short notice and they confirmed our driver within 30 minutes, keeping us fully informed. We had to make a minor change to the booking, all dealt with swiftly and professionally by real people. They even chased us for flight details so they could monitor our arrival. Just as well, as we arrived early and flew through customs, getting to the arrivals hall 1 hour earlier than I booked. I hoped our driver might be there and he was! A smooth drive and 1.5 hours later, we were in our hotel. This was service that can't be beaten. Thank you DayTrip.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Anna P

Aug 12, 2018

Fabulous

“We have booked six transfers across Croatia,Slovenia & Northern Italy with Daytrip and have just completed the first two from Sagreb to Ljubljana and Ljubljana to Lake Bled. We are extremely pleased with everything Daniel and Matic provided. They arrived on time,were very friendly, informative, clean and English speaking. Car transport from door to door has saved us pulling our luggage to train and bus stations and has given us more time in our destinations. Sightseeing along the way has added to our enjoyment.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Bill H

Feb 21, 2017

Excellent and comfortable way to travel

“Five of us join Daytrip on December 2016. The travel were from Krakow- Vienna, Vienna Ljubjana, Ljubjana-Zagreb, Zagreb- Venice, Venice-Salzburg, Salzburg-Hallstatt, Hallstatt- Prague and Prague-Budapest. We had a few stop from one point to another points. All drivers were excellent. This is the excellent way of travelling in Europe. I wish the expand to more other countries as well.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler marianawirahadi

Jan 1, 2017

Ljubljana-Zagreb by car

“Booked Daytrip drive from Ljubljana to Zagreb. It was seamless transport. Silvestra met us at our hotel, gave us helpful tips & information to our destination (being a local). Very pleasant & friendly conversation during the trip. Loved the door to door service, since we had few extra luggages. Nothing beats Personal car service. Highly recommended.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler uncwinnie

Good to know

Children

If you’re traveling with children, make sure to let us know in the booking so we can get the appropriate child seats ready!

Pets

Pets are allowed (and loved)! We just need to know beforehand. You can tell us about them in the next phase of the booking.

Tips

Gratuity isn’t included or required, but if you really enjoyed your trip, you can show your driver your appreciation with an optional tip (10% is sufficient).

Luggage

Big luggage
29x21x11 inches
74x53x28 cm

Small luggage
22x14x9 inches
56x36x23 cm

Each passenger is allowed to have one checked bag and one carry on. If you’re traveling with more bags or oversized luggage, you can adjust this while booking.

Payment methods

Pay by credit card online, or in cash directly to your driver!

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions, here are the answers.

Daytrip is a platform that connects you with local drivers who will transport you door-to-door, from one city to the next. We also give you the opportunity to explore sights/attractions along the way. We drive, you discover.

Yes! A return trip will take you back to your city of origin in the same size car in which you arrived. Return trips can be booked for the any day. You can also add customized sightseeing stops separately for each trip! Don’t worry if you don’t know your exact address at the time of booking - you’ll have the opportunity to update us closer to your travel date. Make sure to select “Return” when you start the booking process, then choose the dates and times of your departures.

For private trips, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before departure. For the Daytrip Pool shared shuttle, we offer 3 ticket options when booking: Non-refundable, Flexible with cancellations 24 hours before departure, and Super-flexible with cancellations up to 15 minutes before departure.

Simply choose your origin and destination via our homepage and enter your departure date and time. Browse and add sightseeing stops along the way by following the booking instructions provided on-screen. Select “One Way” or “Return” to change the type of trip you need. It’s a simple, easy, and fun way to book your next adventure! And if you don’t see your desired route on our website, you can request a custom trip. You can even book without knowing your exact pick-up or drop-off address - we let you add these later!

Each passenger is allowed one large bag (29" x 21" x 11" / 74 x 53 x 28 cm) and one small bag (22" x 14" x 9" / 56 x 36 x 23 cm). Luxury sedans can only accommodate 2 large bags. We always send the vehicle that is the best fit for you and your luggage, so make sure to select the actual amount of luggage you are traveling with when booking. If you have oversized luggage, or are unsure if your luggage will fit, contact us.

Everywhere except the USA, drivers will supply appropriate child seats (just let us know during booking). In the USA, certain states require you to supply your own child seats.

Daytrip is the most convenient way to experience 14,500+ cities around the world.

Every traveler deserves real insight into the cultures of the countries they’re visiting. And every amazing place on Earth deserves to be visited and appreciated. We believe unique local knowledge and real human connection are irreplaceable when it comes to truly comprehending another culture.