12-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Croatia, Slovenia, and Austria With Itinerary from Zagreb to Zadar, Lika-Senj County, Ljubljana, Schladming, and Vienna

On day 4 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Croatia, Slovenia, and Austria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Senj in Croatia and Veliki Otok in Slovenia. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Ljubljana, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Senj and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 7 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Senj beckons with new experiences!

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Senj is the fantastic Park Nehaj. As an appreciated castle and local gem in the area, Park Nehaj has earned an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 71 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Nehaj Fortress. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,695 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Senj, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Veliki Otok, Slovenia. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to Slovenia. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 12 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Veliki Otok is the magnificent Postojna Cave. Around 44,335 visitors have rated this excellent cave and travel destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Set your GPS to Predjama and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 15 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Predjama beckons with new experiences!

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Predjama today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Predjama Castle. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,889 visitors.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Ljubljana. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Ljubljana boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Slovenia.

Start your culinary exploration in Ljubljana by securing a reservation at Restavracija Strelec. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Dubočica restaurant, a popular restaurant in Ljubljana. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Platana Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Dnevni Bar Pri Klobasarju Urška Košir S. P. , the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Žmauc provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Celebrate day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 5 of your European tour in Croatia, Slovenia, and Austria, you’ll start and end your day in Pula, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Ljubljana for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Pula in Croatia to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive towards Croatia, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Pula. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 15 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Something that makes Pula the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding archeological site, Pula Arena. This local gem has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 60,294 visitors.

The famous Istrian Olive Oil Museum is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Pula's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 523 travelers have rated this incredible museum and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Pula is also home to the extraordinary Šijana/siana Forest, which boasts a 4.8 out of 5 star rating in 1,201 traveler reviews.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Slovenia's delectable cuisine at one of Ljubljana's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Dine in style at Patrick's Irish Pub, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Kavarna Zvezda boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Landerik. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Ljubljana.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Sombrero Bar Maver Peter S. P. , a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Cutty Sark Pub, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Lp Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Croatia, Slovenia, and Austria! Enjoy your evening in Ljubljana to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Croatia, Slovenia, and Austria. Today's main destinations are Ljubljana in Slovenia, 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 Schladming. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

A tour of Ljubljana is not complete without a visit to the famous Prešeren Square. This incredible public square and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 10,673 travelers.

Make the most of your Ljubljana travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Dragon Bridge. This monument and unique destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 17,293 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Ljubljana Castle for an experience worth remembering. This local castle and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 36,179 visitors.

Bled’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Ljubljana behind. This drive usually takes around 51 min. Bled welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Bled Castle is a travelers’ favorite in Bled, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 27,969 visitors.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Schladming’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Schladming. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Austria in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Beisl - the karaoke bar in Schladming, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Sattler‘s? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Stadtbräu as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Schladming.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Salzburg in Austria. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Vienna, your home for 4 nights.

After soaking in Schladming’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Salzburg. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 2 min. When you arrive in Salzburg, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Hellbrunn Palace. This outstanding palace and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 19,177 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Hellbrunn Palace is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Fortress Hohensalzburg is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This castle and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 43,742 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing palace, Mirabell Palace. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 26,975 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Vienna.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Vienna’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Croatia, Slovenia, and Austria.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Amador, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative and contemporary menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Mraz & Sohn, known for its delicious creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Vienna is Steirereck im Stadtpark, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious creative and contemporary menu.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Tapete Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Star Inn Hotel Wien Schönbrunn, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Kruger’s American Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

Wake up and see what day 8 of your great European road trip in Croatia, Slovenia, and Austria has in store for you! You will be staying in Vienna for 3 nights before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Innere Stadt is a fantastic place you can explore today in Vienna. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Vienna-way-of-life and take advantage of the nearby must-see sights located nearby.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Vienna is the fantastic St. Stephen's Cathedral. As an appreciated church and local gem in the area, St. Stephen's Cathedral has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 105,471 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Vienna State Opera. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 50,516 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Belvedere Palace Chapel, a standout palace and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 67,468 reviewers.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Austria's delectable cuisine at one of Vienna's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Boutiquehotel Stadthalle, a top-rated dining spot in Vienna. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Ofenloch, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Flanagans. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Vienna.

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

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Croatia, Slovenia, and Austria! Enjoy your evening in Vienna to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.

On day 9, you will wake up in Vienna with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 2 nights left in Vienna before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Croatia, Slovenia, and Austria.

Make sure to visit Neubau, a popular neighborhood in Vienna. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

A tour of Vienna is not complete without a visit to the famous Hofburg Palace. This incredible palace and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 47,614 travelers.

Make the most of your Vienna travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Museum Of Natural History Vienna. This museum and unique destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 33,817 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Museumsquartier for an experience worth remembering. This local museum and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,351 visitors.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Vienna. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Puerstner, a popular restaurant in Vienna. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Vienna at Vollpension, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Zum Schwarzen Kameel. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Vienna tonight.

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

As the night falls in Vienna, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

On day 11 of your multi-country road trip across Croatia, Slovenia, and Austria, 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 to see in Vienna in Austria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zagreb, where you will stay for 1 night.

Schönbrunn Palace is a travelers’ favorite in Vienna, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 147,071 visitors.

In Vienna, don’t miss Tiergarten Schönbrunn, a great zoo and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 51,059 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Vienna off your list when you visit the wonderful Schönbrunn Palace. This popular sight is an outstanding park, rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 54,108 travelers.

Upon reaching Zagreb, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Zagreb of your choice.

As the sun sets on day 11 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Zagreb's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Croatia to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Zagreb has them.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Zagreb by reserving a table at Tač. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of traditional cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Noel, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Beštija, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite contemporary menu. With a Bib Gourmand acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zagreb.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Krolo. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Kavana Corso offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Valhalla Beer Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

As the night falls in Zagreb, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.