5-Day Croatia Road Trip from Zagreb traveling south to Lika-Senj County and Lovinac

Your road trip adventure in Croatia begins as soon as you reach Zagreb and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Zagreb 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.

Zagreb 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 Park Maksimir 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 Zagreb. 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 Zagreb. 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 Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, a top-rated dining destination in Zagreb. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Roots - juice & cocktail bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cheese Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zagreb this evening.

Keep the evening going at Booze and Blues, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Krolo, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Valhalla beer bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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

Set your GPS to Lika-Senj County and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 56 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Lika-Senj County beckons with new experiences!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Ban Josip Jelačić Statue. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,840 reviews.

Continue your journey at Zagreb Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 16,419 travelers from near and far.

Zagreb is also the home of Zagreb Zoo. This zoo has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 24,176 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Bundek. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,257 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

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.

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

Savor the flavors at The Highlanders pub, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Kavana Milinković beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Lika-Senj County tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Caffe Bar Fortuna, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Caffe bar Amadeus is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Caffe Bar Bevanda is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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, Zadar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lovinac, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lika-Senj County and set your GPS to Zadar. 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 12 min. Upon reaching Zadar, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Market Zadar. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,657 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Sea organ. This tide organ has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 57,178 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Roman Forum. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,709 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Church of St. Donatus. This church building is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,708 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Narodni trg. This point of interest is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,636 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Lovinac. Lovinac 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.

As you explore more of Lovinac, 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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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 Perušić and Smiljan. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zagreb, where you will stay for 1 night.

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 Perušić. Your travel time is around 21 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Grabovača. This protected area is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,204 visitors.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Ecopark Krašograd. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,633 reviews.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Pri zvoncu, an iconic dining spot in Zagreb. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restoran Vegehop, a popular restaurant in Zagreb. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Mali Medo, a hidden gem nestled in Zagreb. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at A’e Craft Bar. Alternatively, go to Mr. Fogg, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Swanky Monkey Garden provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Day 5 of your road trip in Croatia is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Zagreb before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Make the most of your final day in Croatia by visiting Zagreb’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Croatia. Take home a piece of Croatia with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Pivnica Medvedgrad Ilica, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? HERITAGE - Croatian Street Food & Shop offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Submarine Burger Frankopanska.

You’ll then say farewell to Zagreb. 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!