It is possible to go on vacation to Croatia without flying and at a lower cost!
Do you dream of discovering the wonders of Croatia without breaking the bank and above all without polluting? Would you like the journey to be an integral part of the trip? Good news: it’s entirely possible to reach the Mediterranean gem by train, with a picturesque route that will take you straight from Paris, Lyon or Marseille, to the sunny shores of Croatia’s Adriatic coast, all without ever taking the plane.
In addition to being ecological, this railway adventure offers a unique experience of discovery and… savings! To depart from Paris, nothing could be simpler: simply book a ticket on board the TGV to Zurich, in Switzerland. This first stage, which lasts approximately 4 hours and 10 minutes, will allow you to start the vacation by admiring the splendid landscapes through the window of the carriage.
Once arrived in Zurich – where it is entirely possible, even recommended, to take a break, even if only to take a dip in the lake or stroll through the medieval streets of the old town, it is in the train that you will spend your next night: in the evening, board the ÖBB Zurich-Zagreb night train for a crossing through the Austrian Alps and the vast plains of Hungary and Slovenia. During the approximately 14-hour journey, let yourself be lulled by the gentle movement of the train. What’s better than falling asleep in Switzerland and waking up a few hours later in the heart of the Balkans?
Arriving in Zagreb, the Croatian capital, you then have several options to reach the seaside towns on the Adriatic coast such as Split or Dubrovnik. For example, opt for an Intercity trip, with a journey time of around 6 hours between Zagreb and Split. Through the window, admire the passing landscapes, from the mountains to the vineyards and the country’s picturesque villages.
In addition to the advantage of discovering several emblematic destinations during the same trip and enjoying each stopover city, this rail alternative also presents undeniable economic and ecological advantages. In fact, train tickets can often be cheaper than plane tickets, especially if you book in advance. In addition, by choosing the train rather than the plane, you reduce your carbon footprint, thus contributing to the preservation of the environment.
On social networks, the movement is gaining momentum, several accounts, particularly on Instagram, have made it their credo. Like Hourrail, which recommends itineraries without a plane. According to this new type of media, a Paris – Zagreb trip costs around 240 euros for a round trip, compared to 283 euros by plane! A significant saving, especially if it is combined with respect for the environment…