11-Day Croatia Road Trip from Zadar to Karlovac County, Zagreb, Senj, Šibenik, and Metković

On day 2 of your road trip in Croatia, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Zadar. In the evening, you’ll end up in Karlovac County, where you will stay for 1 night.

Drop by the renowned Market Zadar. This popular sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,813 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Narodni Trg. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,796 visitors, this point of interest deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Church Of St. Donatus. This church building has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,882 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Roman Forum. This point of interest and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,872 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Sea Organ. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 58,697 travelers, this tide organ is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Zadar.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Karlovac County. Karlovac County offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Karlovac County's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Pizzeria Tiffany Karlovac, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Ćevabdžinica Behar offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Konoba Črni kos. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Karlovac County.

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

Head back to your accommodation in Karlovac County and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Grad Krapina, Trakošćan, and Grad Varaždin. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zagreb. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Karlovac County, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Grad Krapina. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 2 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Take the opportunity to see Museum Of Neandertals In Krapina. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,734 visitors.

Trakošćan’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Grad Krapina behind. This drive usually takes around 26 min. Trakošćan welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Trakošćan Castle. This château is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 9,806 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Zagreb, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Zagreb. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Discover the culinary delights of Zagreb by securing a reservation at Tač. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of traditional cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Noel, renowned for its delicious modern dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Beštija, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering contemporary menu. With its Bib Gourmand recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Tesla New Generation, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Caffe Bar Destino is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Booze And Blues is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Croatia!

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Zagreb for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Park Maksimir. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 19,618 visitors.

Zagreb Zoo is another popular attraction you could visit today. This zoo has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 24,493 visitors.

Zagreb Cathedral is also highly recommended by travelers. This catholic cathedral has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 16,501 visitors.

Ban Josip Jelačić Statue is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,166 reviews.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Zagreb. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Pizzeria Park, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Roots - juice & cocktail bar? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Tagliata as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Zagreb.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Krolo. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Kavana Corso, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Valhalla Beer Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Zagreb. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Senj, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Museum Of Broken Relationships. This museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 7,174 visitors.

Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb is another popular attraction you could visit today. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,049 visitors.

Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb is also highly recommended by travelers. This park has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,694 visitors.

Technical Museum is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,422 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Bundek. This lake has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,435 travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Senj, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the town.

As you explore more of Senj, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

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 enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Pirassa Caffe Gelateria, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Cafe Bar Julijus. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Erna, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Croatia!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Senj, and Smiljan, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Šibenik. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Journey into the unknown at Nehaj Fortress, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable fortress has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,695 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Plaža Prva Draga is a recommended place to visit. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,121 reviews.

After soaking in Senj’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Smiljan. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 14 min. When you arrive in Smiljan, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Nikola Tesla Memorial Center. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,029 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Šibenik. Šibenik offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Šibenik's best restaurants.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Pelegrini in Šibenik by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Pelegrini offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're looking to mix things up, Fry Guy offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Caffe Palma. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Mystic, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Azimut provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Croatia.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Šibenik, and Split. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Metković, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at St. Nicholas’ Fortress, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,888 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Šibenik Cathedral. This cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,654 travelers.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Split. This car ride takes around 1 hour 15 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Marjan. This extraordinary mountain is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,622 visitors.

Next, make your way to Diocletian's Palace. This top attraction is a museum with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 77,945 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Metković, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Metković. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Pizzeria MARINO, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Pizzeria Milano? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Konoba Lanterna as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Metković.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Carpe Diem Cafe, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Kave Bar Mb By Zvonko provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

On day 9 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Metković, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Metković, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bosanka may take around 1 hour 35 min. Upon your arrival in Bosanka, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take the opportunity to see Dubrovnik Cable Car. This attraction has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 9,632 visitors.

Porat Dubrovnik is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,739 travelers.

Bosanka is also the home of The Cathedral Of The Assumption Of The Virgin Mary. Around 3,640 people have rated this church an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Dubrovnik, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Metković. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 34 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Lovrijenac. This fortress is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,375 visitors.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Metković.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Metković's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Caffe Bar Biberon Metković, a top-rated dining spot in Metković. If you're in the mood for something new, try Industry Pub, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Fast food Mamma Mia. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Metković.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!