4-Day Croatia Road Trip from Zadar traveling north to Lika-Senj County

Your road trip adventure in Croatia begins as soon as you reach Zadar and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Zadar for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Zadar is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Kolovare Beach or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Zadar. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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 delightful dinner at Pizzeria Šime, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Хърватски ресторант "Галия"? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restoran Zadar - Jadera as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Zadar.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Yachting Bar & Club, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Caffe bar Porthos offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The Factory Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise a toast to the start of your 4-day road trip in Croatia!

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Zadar, 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 Lika-Senj County. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Market Zadar, a remarkable point of interest where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,657 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Narodni trg. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,636 travelers.

Church of St. Donatus is another must-visit attraction. This renowned church building offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,708 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Roman Forum. This well-loved sightseeing destination boasts a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 4,709 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Sea organ awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a tide organ, this is a top pick rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 57,178 previous visitors.

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

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Lika-Senj County's best restaurants.

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Highlanders pub, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Kavana Milinković offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Lika-Senj County.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Caffe Bar Fortuna after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Caffe bar Amadeus for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Caffe Bar Bevanda is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Smiljan, Senj, and Pijavica. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zadar, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Upon your arrival in Smiljan, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Nikola Tesla Memorial Center. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,955 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Lika-Senj County, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Senj. Your travel time is around 1 hour 15 min.

Take the opportunity to see Nehaj Fortress. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,558 visitors.

Plaža Prva Draga is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,086 travelers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Zadar, 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 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.

Savor the flavors at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Pet Bunara Dine & Wine beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant 2Ribara. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zadar tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Pirate Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out BackStage Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Garden Lounge provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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.

Day 4 of your road trip in Croatia is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Zadar before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

On your last day in Croatia, take time to indulge in shopping at Zadar’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Croatia. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Croatia forever.

Make Queen Jelena Madijevka Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,296 reviews.

Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Zadar.

Dine in style at Harbor CookHouse & Club, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restoran Urnebes boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

You’ll then say farewell to Zadar. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Croatia!