5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar to Korenica and Lika-Senj County and surrounding area
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through Croatia. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Croatia takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Zadar, 1 night in Korenica, and 1 night in Lika-Senj County. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Croatia. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Zadar, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Croatia on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Croatia. Plitvice Lakes National Park and Diocletian's Palace are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Zadar, Korenica, Senj, Smiljan, Lika-Senj County, and Split, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Croatia. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Croatia.
Throughout your road trip in Croatia, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Croatia.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Croatia fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Croatia today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1 – Zadar - arrival day
- Zadar - Arrival day
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- Kolovare Beach
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Welcome to Zadar, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Croatia! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Zadar's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Zadar. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading 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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Pizzeria Šime, a top-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Harvatski restorant "Galiya", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Yachting Bar & Club offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Caffe Bar Porthos is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The Factory Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Croatia!
Day 2 – Zadar and Korenica
- Zadar
- Korenica
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Drive 129 km, 1 hour 53 min
- Market Zadar
- People's Square
- Church of St. Donatus
- Roman Forum
- Sea organ
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On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Zadar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Korenica, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Zadar today. One of the most frequently visited attractions included on the itinerary is Market Zadar. This picture-perfect market will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Narodni Trg and learn what makes this romantic public square unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the beloved Church Of St. Donatus. After exploring the church, head to Roman Forum. This increasingly popular archeological site is a highlight in Zadar. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the impressive Sea Organ. Enjoy exploring this incredible art installation at your own pace.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Korenica. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the village.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Korenica's best restaurants.
With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Korenica.
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 3 – Korenica, Senj, Smiljan, and Lika-Senj County
- Korenica
- Senj
- Lika-Senj
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Drive 216 km, 3 hours 55 min
- Northern Velebit National Park
- Nehaj Fortress
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Korenica, 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 Lika-Senj County. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Head to Northern Velebit National Park, a worthwhile national park in Korenica. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
When you’ve had your share of Senj, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Smiljan. Your travel time is around 1 hour 14 min.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Nehaj Fortress, a curiosity-inducing castle that draws visitors from near and far.
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 explore more of Lika-Senj County, 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.
Dine in style at The Highlanders pub, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Kavana Milinković boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Lika-Senj County.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Caffe Bar Fortuna. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Caffe Bar Amadeus, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Caffe Bar Bevanda provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Croatia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4 – Lika-Senj County, Split, and Zadar
- Lika-Senj
- Split
- Zadar
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Drive 390 km, 4 hours 28 min
- Diocletian's Palace
- Golden Gate
- Forest Park Marjan
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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 Split. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zadar, where you will stay for 1 night.
Set your GPS to Split and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 13 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Split beckons with new experiences!
Diocletian's Palace is an extraordinary palace we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour to Golden Gate, an instagrammable historical landmark that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Marjan, a serene park.
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 Zadar. Zadar 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.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Zadar. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top-rated dining spot in Zadar. If you're in the mood for something new, try Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant 2Ribara. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zadar.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Pirate Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Bizarre offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Backstage Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!
Day 5 – Zadar - departure day
- Zadar - Departure day
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- Queen Jelena Madijevka Park
- Sea organ
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Day 5 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.
Maximize your last day in Croatia and go on a shopping spree in Zadar’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Croatia.
Prepare for a day full of a romantic, a beautiful, a stunning, and an instagrammable. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Queen Jelena Madijevka Park. This increasingly popular park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience.
Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Zadar.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Roko, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Harbor CookHouse & Club offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restoran Urnebes.
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!
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