One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina With Itinerary from Zagreb to Banja Luka, Split, Zadar, and Lika-Senj County

Day 3 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Banja Luka. Enjoy time off the road as you have 1 night left in the city.

Banja Luka is brimming with adventures.

Visiting Ferhadija Mosque is always a good idea. This intriguing mosque is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the visually striking wonders of Kastel Fortress, a must-see castle in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Museum Of The Republika Srpska. This frequently visited museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Christ The Savior Orthodox Cathedral, where you can take in historic features.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Banja Luka. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Hotel •• Vila Vrbas ••, a popular restaurant in Banja Luka. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Banja Luka at Restoran Slap, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated TERZO Gastro Bar. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Banja Luka tonight.

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

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

On day 4 of your multi-country road trip across Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina, you'll get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Banja Luka in Bosnia & Herzegovina. In the evening, you’ll end up in Split, where you will stay for 1 night.

Make time for Vrućica Srpske Toplice, an underrated hot spring that is worthwhile a visit in the city.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Zidine, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Banja Luka to Zidine may take around 24 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Zidine, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Krupa Waterfalls, an up-and-coming waterfall that draws visitors from near and far.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Jajce, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Zidine to Jajce may take around 44 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Jajce, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Pliva Waterfall, a captivating waterfall that draws visitors from near and far.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Split of your choice.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Split.

Start your culinary exploration in Split by securing a reservation at Šug. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of regional cuisine. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Perivoj restoran i kavana, a popular restaurant in Split. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Keep the evening going at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to La Linea, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Fabrique Pub, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Split in Croatia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zadar, your home for 1 night.

Make a stop at Diocletian's Palace. This impressive palace is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Marjan located in Split for another exciting encounter.

Grad Skradin’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Split behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 29 min. Grad Skradin welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Skradinski Buk, an underrated waterfall known for its UNESCO world heritage-designated features.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Krka National Park. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the national park before you continue to your next stop.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Zadar.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina by rewarding yourself with a taste of Zadar’s local cuisine.

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 consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Zadar tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Yachting Bar & Club, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Porthos offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The Factory Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Take in the ambiance of Zadar as this day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your multi-country road trip to look forward to!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your multi-country journey across Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in Zadar in Croatia. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Lika-Senj County where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Market Zadar brings Zadar's character to life. This photogenic market is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Narodni Trg, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Church Of St. Donatus, one of the city’s most locally appreciated attractions, known for its photogenic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Roman Forum. This picture-perfect archeological site is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Sea Organ, a top-rated art installation, and take a stroll around the area.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Lika-Senj County’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Lika-Senj County’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the town’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina.

Don’t miss out on dining at The Highlanders pub, a top-rated dining destination in Lika-Senj County. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kavana Milinković, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lika-Senj County this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Caffe Bar Fortuna, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Caffe Bar Amadeus, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Caffe Bar Bevanda likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Celebrate day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina. Today's main destinations are Smiljan in Croatia, 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 Zagreb. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

After soaking in Lika-Senj County’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Smiljan. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 8 min. When you arrive in Smiljan, it's time to take a break from the road.

Nikola Tesla Memorial Center is an up-and-coming museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its eye-catching features before continuing your self-guided tour.

After soaking in Smiljan’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Korenica. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 19 min. When you arrive in Korenica, it's time to take a break from the road.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Plitvice Lakes National Park, an iconic national park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Set your GPS to Plitvica Selo and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 12 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Plitvica Selo beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready for some sights, head to Great Waterfall, a worthwhile waterfall in Plitvica Selo. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Zagreb. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Zagreb. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Zagreb by securing a table at Tač. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional traditional menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Noel, famous for its scrumptious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Beštija, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite contemporary cuisine in Zagreb. Located in the heart of the city, this Bib Gourmand-awardee is an ideal pick for contemporary cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

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

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!