Relaxed 10-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zagreb to Senj and Zadar

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Zagreb, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Croatia are extraordinary.

Bundek is an ideal stop early in the day. This notable park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Croatian Museum Of Contemporary Art, which may be one of the most instagrammable places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Zagreb on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Park Maksimir, a captivating park in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Zagreb Zoo.

Croatia makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Croatia also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Croatia. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Zagreb, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Tač, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional traditional menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Noel, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Zagreb is Beštija, a renowned Bib Gourmand restaurant and a delicious contemporary menu.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Zagreb. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Krolo after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Kavana Corso, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Valhalla Beer Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Croatia!

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip through Croatia means 24 hours of making the best memories in Zagreb. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Zagreb. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Zagreb!

Don’t miss Upper Town (Gornji Grad) today, a must-see neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks. While you’re in the area, consider visiting Ilica, another street that adds to the charm of Zagreb.

Whatever your travel style is, Stone Gate is an essential stop in Zagreb. This underrated historical landmark provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Museum Of Broken Relationships, an instagrammable museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Lotrščak Tower, a worthwhile historical landmark.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Croatia more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Zagreb offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Zagreb has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Roots - juice & cocktail bar, a top-rated dining destination in Zagreb. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Štruk, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Tagliata. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zagreb this evening.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Zagreb.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at A’e Craft Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Budbar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Mr. Fogg provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Croatia!

Day 4 of your easy, relaxed road trip through Croatia lets you travel at your own pace and visit multiple places in a single day. Begin by exploring the best sights in Zagreb. By evening, drive toward the Senj, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Visiting Ban Josip Jelačić Statue is always a good idea. This notable monument is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the stunning wonders of Zagreb Cathedral, a must-see church in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Ribnjak Park. This intriguing park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb, where you can take in romantic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Technical Museum These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Senj. Staying in the town gives you a comfortable, welcoming place to recharge during your laid-back road trip in Croatia.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Senj has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the town.

Make sure to reserve a table at Pizzeria King, an iconic dining spot in Senj. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bistro i Caffe bar "Kod tri mornara", a popular restaurant in Senj. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurant Uskok, a hidden gem nestled in Senj. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Senj and unwind at some of the best bars in the town.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Pirassa Caffe Gelateria stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Cafe Bar Julijus offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Erna is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Croatia!

Day 5 of your self-drive tour in Croatia offers a chance to experience the country’s diversity. You’ll start your day in Senj and end it in Zadar. You’ll stay in Zadar for 4 nights. Along the way, you’ll glimpse local life and explore some of the most remarkable places in Croatia.

Enjoy all that Senj City Museum has to offer. This is an underrated museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Nehaj Fortress, an up-and-coming castle in Senj.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Zavratnica Cove. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Nikola Tesla Memorial Center, another of the town’s locally appreciated attractions.

Continue your laid-back road trip in Croatia as you make your way to Zadar. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

Exploring the food culture in Zadar offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Pizzeria Šime, a highly-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're eager to try something different, consider Harvatski restorant "Galiya", another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Yachting Bar & Club after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Caffe Bar Porthos, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Factory Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back road trip adventure across Croatia.

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia, you’ll go deep into Zadar, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Zadar, and meet locals along the way!

Check out the intriguing art installation, Monument To The Sun. Afterward, continue to Sea Organ, an art installation every traveler should visit. As you explore Zadar’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Next, make your way to Roman Forum. This curiosity-inducing archeological site is an essential stop. Following that, head to Church Of St. Donatus, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Zadar Cathedral, an often recommended church in the city.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Croatia. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Croatia and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant 2Ribara. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Zadar and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Continue your lively evening at Pirate Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Caffe Bar Bizarre is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Backstage Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back road trip adventure across Croatia.

Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Zadar, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Croatia are extraordinary.

Visiting Kolovare Beach is always a good idea. This curiosity-inducing beach is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the symbolic wonders of The Five Wells Square, a must-see public square in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Queen Jelena Madijevka Park. This underrated park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Narodni Trg, where you can take in history-steeped features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Market Zadar These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Croatia by joining a traveler-approved tour in Zagreb. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Zagreb that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Croatia more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Zadar to find the best options for you!

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Croatia, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Zadar.

Dine in style at Roko, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Harbor CookHouse & Club boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restoran Urnebes. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zadar.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Zadar and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Garden Lounge, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Down Town offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Zadar. Beach Bar Bamboo is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!

On day 8 of your relaxed road trip in Croatia, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Zadar and visit amazing attractions in Nin, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Rupine, and Parići, just outside the city. You still have 1 night left in Zadar, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Enjoy all that Solana Nin Salt Museum has to offer. This is a frequently visited museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Paški Most, an increasingly popular road bridge in Zadar.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Maslenica Bridge. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Pariževačka Glavica, another of the town’s beloved attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Paklenica National Park, a visually striking place of interest in the town.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Zadar and your accommodation.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Croatia. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Zadar, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Dine in style at GRICKO, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Konoba Rafaelo boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Konoba Misterija. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zadar.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Zadar. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Caffe Bar Kult, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Teatro Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Zadar. Sphinx is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Croatia. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Croatia tomorrow with new energy.

On day 9 of your laid-back road trip adventure in Croatia, you can visit several remarkable places. With the freedom and flexibility of a self-drive tour, you decide how much time to spend in each, making the most of these memorable destinations.

Aquatika is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This picture-perfect aquarium is sure to impress.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Zadar by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Kipišće Lake. This awe-inspiring lake is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Zadar experience. We also recommend visiting Playground / Lake Kipiste, an often recommended lake.

You'll be staying in Zagreb on this laid-back road trip through Croatia. You'll stay here for 1 night.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Croatia, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Zagreb.

Savor the flavors at Batak Grill, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, GOSTIONICA RESTORAN PURGER beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Cheese Bar. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zagreb tonight.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Zagreb.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Esplanade 1925 Lounge & Cocktail Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Carpe Diem, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Regular. Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Zagreb as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in Croatia!