11-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zagreb traveling east to Lika-Senj County, Zadar, Split, Lovinac, Grad Varaždin, and Osijek

Day 2 of your road trip across Croatia promises a magnificent time exploring Zagreb. You have 1 night left in Zagreb. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Zagreb on today’s itinerary. First up is the locally renowned park, Park Maksimir. Afterward, continue to Zagreb Zoo, a zoo every traveler should visit.

As you explore Zagreb’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb. This increasingly popular botanical garden is an essential stop. Following that, head to Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Bundek, a locally renowned park in the city.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Croatia is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

As you explore more of Zagreb, 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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Zagreb by booking a table at Tač, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional traditional menu. For a different culinary experience in Zagreb, Noel shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Beštija is known as a top local spot for its delicious contemporary cuisine in Zagreb. This Bib Gourmand awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

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.

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

On day 3 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 Lika-Senj County, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. The first attraction of today is Ban Josip Jelačić Statue. This interesting monument is a noteworthy place to see in Zagreb. Continue your discovery at Stone Gate, a picture-perfect historical landmark with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Zagreb, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Ribnjak Park. This intriguing park offers a romantic encounter with Zagreb. Next, make your way to Zagreb Cathedral to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Zagreb.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Lika-Senj County. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely meal at The Highlanders pub, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Kavana Milinković is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Lika-Senj County tonight.

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

Say good night to Lika-Senj County and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!

On day 4 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 Parići and Zadar. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zadar, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Lika-Senj County, including a national park, an art installation, an archeological site, a church and much more! Start your day with a visit to Paklenica National Park. This locally appreciated national park is a must-visit in the hamlet. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Sea Organ, which may be one of the most romantic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Lika-Senj County 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 Monument To The Sun, an increasingly popular art installation in the hamlet. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Roman Forum and Church Of St. Donatus.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Zadar. Zadar offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Zadar. 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Pizzeria Šime, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Harvatski restorant "Galiya" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restoran Zadar - Jadera. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zadar.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Yachting Bar & Club, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Caffe Bar Porthos provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Factory Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Zadar and Split. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Split, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Zadar allows for both. Start by heading to Market Zadar. This up-and-coming market provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Narodni Trg, a stunning public square, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Queen Jelena Madijevka Park, an often recommended park. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the captivating Marjan. Round off your day at Diocletian's Palace, another gem in Zadar with romantic features to discover.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Split. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Split by booking a table at Šug. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of regional cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Perivoj restoran i kavana, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out La Linea, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Fabrique Pub. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Mihaljekov Jarek, Grad Krapina, and Radoboj. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Grad Varaždin. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start your day at Muzej Oldtimera. This historic museum is an often recommended place to see in Lovinac. Then, wander over to Museum Of Neandertals In Krapina. If heritage-rich sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Muzej Radboa. This history-steeped museum is a favorite among visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Grad Varaždin. Grad Varaždin offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Cafe Haustor, an iconic dining spot in Grad Varaždin. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restoran Angelus, a popular restaurant in Grad Varaždin. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Medonja, a hidden gem nestled in Grad Varaždin. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Croatia!

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Osijek, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Osijek allows for both. Start by heading to Memorijalni Centar Domovinskog Rata. This beloved museum provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Vukovar Water Tower, a picture-perfect monument, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Church Of St. Philip And St. Jacob, a locally appreciated church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the curiosity-inducing Kopački Rit Nature Park.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Hokus Okus - Čarolija Okusa, a top-rated dining spot in Osijek. If you're in the mood for something new, try Pečenjarnica "Zeleni val", another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restoran Karaka Osijek. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Osijek.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Rubicon Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Caffe Bar Cigla provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Caffe Bar Kafka offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Croatia.

On day 10 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 Tvrđavica, Osijek, and Đakovo. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zagreb, where you will stay for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots in Osijek. Begin your sightseeing with Zoo Osijek. This frequently visited zoo is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Sakuntala Park, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Osijek, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Youth Pedestrian Bridge. This up-and-coming boardwalk is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Đakovo Cathedral, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Zagreb. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Roots - juice & cocktail bar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, La Štruk offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Tagliata is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Zagreb.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at A’e Craft Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Budbar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Mr. Fogg, another top-rated place in the area.

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