5-Day Croatia Road Trip from Zadar traveling north to Senj and Zagreb

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.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Zadar. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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.

Make sure to book a table at Pizzeria Šime, a popular restaurant in Zadar. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Experience a taste of Zadar at Хърватски ресторант "Галия", a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Restoran Zadar - Jadera. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Zadar tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Yachting Bar & Club, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Caffe bar Porthos offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Zadar. The Factory Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Croatia!

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

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Zadar, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Upon arrival in Zadar, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Market Zadar. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,657 reviews.

Narodni trg is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,636 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Church of St. Donatus. This church building is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,708 reviews.

Roman Forum is another outstanding experience in Zadar. Around 4,709 travelers have rated this point of interest an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Sea organ is not far away. This tide organ is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 57,178 reviews.

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

Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of cuisine. This esteemed -recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. With its recognition, it guarantees an unforgettable dining adventure. Savor the flavors at Pizzeria King, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bistro i Caffe bar "Kod tri mornara" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant Uskok. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Senj tonight.

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

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

On day 3 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 Zagreb. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zagreb, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, Bundek is a great place to start. This lake is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,257 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,026 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Stone Gate. The city gate has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,640 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Zagreb Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 16,419 reviews.

Ban Josip Jelačić Statue is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this point of interest, rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,840 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

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

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

This -awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Roots - juice & cocktail bar is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Cheese Bar. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Zagreb tonight.

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

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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Zagreb and Ogulin. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zadar. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Zagreb and set your GPS to Ogulin. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 11 min. Upon reaching Ogulin, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Drop by the renowned Park Maksimir. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 19,379 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Zagreb Zoo. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 24,176 visitors, this zoo deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Botanical Garden of the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb. This park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,593 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Zagreb and set your GPS to Ogulin. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 11 min. Upon reaching Ogulin, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make Ivana's House of Fairy Tales one of your first sightseeing stops in Ogulin. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,144 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Zadar.

Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of cuisine. This distinguished -recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With an acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Pet Bunara Dine & Wine offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant 2Ribara. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zadar.

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

Relax and reminisce about your day in Croatia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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.

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.

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

This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. With a recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restoran Urnebes, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

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!