7-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zagreb traveling south to Karlovac County, Lika-Senj County, Split, and Zadar

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 Plitvica Selo, Korenica, and Smiljan. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lika-Senj County, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Karlovac County and set your GPS to Plitvica Selo. 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 18 min. Upon reaching Plitvica Selo, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Head to Great Waterfall, a frequently visited waterfall in Plitvica Selo. Explore its serene features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Korenica, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Plitvica Selo to Korenica may take around 13 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Korenica, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Plitvice Lakes National Park. Spend some time admiring the UNESCO world heritage-listed features of the national park before you continue to your next stop.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Korenica and set your GPS to Smiljan. 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 19 min. Upon reaching Smiljan, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Nikola Tesla Memorial Center is an often recommended museum we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its symbolic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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 Lika-Senj County. Lika-Senj County 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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Highlanders pub, a highly-rated dining destination in Lika-Senj County. If you're eager to try something different, consider Kavana Milinković, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lika-Senj County this evening.

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

Say good night to Lika-Senj County and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Split. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Split, where you’ll be staying 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 Split. Your travel time is around 2 hours 20 min.

Make your way to Marjan, a well-known park that draws attention for its romantic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Kašjuni Beach, a peaceful beach that stands out in the city. Next, visit Diocletian's Palace, a top-rated palace that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Golden Gate, a nearby historical landmark, which is highly recommended by other travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Split. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Split. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Šug, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional regional menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Split at Perivoj restoran i kavana, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, La Linea offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Split. Fabrique Pub is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Croatia.

Dive into day 5 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 Zadar. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Zadar.

Sea Organ is a famous art installation we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Monument To The Sun, a visually striking art installation that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Roman Forum, a picture-perfect archeological site. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Zadar Cathedral, a respected and truly unique church. End your sightseeing at Church Of St. Donatus, a locally appreciated church that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

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 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Pizzeria Šime, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Harvatski restorant "Galiya" is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Zadar tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Yachting Bar & Club, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Caffe Bar Porthos is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Factory Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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