One-Week Croatia Road Trip from Zagreb traveling east to Zadar, Lika-Senj County, and Slavonski Brod

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Explore the best of Croatia on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Zagreb, Zadar, Split, Lika-Senj County, Smiljan, Perušić, Slavonski Brod, Garčin, Podvinje, Grad Varaždin, and Trakošćan. This road trip itinerary in Croatia seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Croatia takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Zagreb, 1 night in Zadar, 1 night in Lika-Senj County, and 2 nights in Slavonski Brod. 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 Zagreb, 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. Diocletian's Palace and Sea organ are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Zagreb, Zadar, Split, Lika-Senj County, Smiljan, Perušić, Slavonski Brod, Garčin, Podvinje, Grad Varaždin, and Trakošćan, 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!

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Day 1

Day 1 – Zagreb - arrival day

  • Zagreb - Arrival day
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  • Park Maksimir
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Welcome to Zagreb, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Croatia! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Zagreb's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Zagreb. 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 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 Rougemarin City, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran Taurus. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zagreb this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at TESLA New Generation, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Caffe bar Destino, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Booze and Blues provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Croatia!

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Day 2

Day 2 – Zagreb

  • Zagreb
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Drive 23 km, 1 hour 2 min

  • Zoo Zagreb
  • Cathedral of Zagreb
  • Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
  • Bundek City Park
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Zagreb has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Zagreb by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Zagreb Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 24,493 reviews.

Continue your journey at Zagreb Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 16,501 travelers from near and far.

Zagreb is also the home of Ban Josip Jelačić Statue. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,166 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Bundek. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,435 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. Croatia is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Pizzeria Park, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Roots - juice & cocktail bar offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Tagliata. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zagreb.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Krolo is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Kavana Corso, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Valhalla beer bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Croatia!

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Day 3

Day 3 – Zagreb, and Zadar

  • Zadar
  • Zagreb
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Drive 300 km, 3 hours 21 min

  • Museum of Broken Relationships
  • Stone Gate
  • Botanical Garden of the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb
  • Nikola Tesla Technical Museum
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Zagreb. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zadar, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Make Museum of Broken Relationships one of your first sightseeing stops in Zagreb. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 7,174 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Stone Gate is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This city gate is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,706 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Botanical Garden of the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb. This park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,694 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Technical Museum. A trip to this popular museum is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 6,422 previous visitors.

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.

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. Alternatively, 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 high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Zadar tonight.

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

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.

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Day 4

Day 4 – Zadar, Split, and Lika-Senj County

  • Lika-Senj
  • Zadar
  • Split
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Drive 385 km, 4 hours 12 min

  • Sea Organ
  • Church of St. Donatus
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Zadar, and Split, 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.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Sea organ, a remarkable tide organ where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 58,697 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Church of St. Donatus. This church building has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,882 travelers.

After soaking in Zadar’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Split. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 48 min. When you arrive in Split, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Diocletian's Palace. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Split, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 77,945 visitors.

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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Lika-Senj County. 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at The Highlanders pub, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Kavana Milinković is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Lika-Senj County tonight.

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.

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

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Day 5

Day 5 – Lika-Senj County, Smiljan, Perušić, and Slavonski Brod

  • Brod-Posavina County
  • Smiljan
  • Perušić
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Drive 402 km, 4 hours 4 min

  • Nikola Tesla Memorial Centre
  • Pećinski park Grabovača
  • Park Slavonski Brod
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Smiljan, Perušić, and Slavonski Brod. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Slavonski Brod, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Smiljan and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 8 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Smiljan beckons with new experiences!

Make Nikola Tesla Memorial Center one of your first sightseeing stops in Smiljan. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,029 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Perušić. This drive usually takes around 21 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Grabovača is a great place to start. This protected area is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,231 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Slavonski Brod, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Slavonski Brod's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Fast Food Slavonija - Kod Šefkija, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant & Pizzeria Papo's? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Grill Jelić as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Slavonski Brod.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Prohibition bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Caffe bar Derby for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Cafe LENNOX is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Say good night to Slavonski Brod and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!

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Day 6

Day 6 – Slavonski Brod, Garčin, and Podvinje

  • Brod-Posavina County
  • Garčin
  • Podvinje
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Drive 43 km, 59 min

  • Ranč Ramarin
  • Šuma Striborova
  • Monastery of the Holy Trinity
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On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Slavonski Brod, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

When you're ready to see some sights, Monastery of the Most Holy Trinity is a great place to start. This place of worship is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 702 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Korzo. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,046 travelers.

Set your GPS to Garčin and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 18 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Garčin beckons with new experiences!

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Ranč Ramarin. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,452 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Garčin, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Podvinje. This drive usually takes around 16 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Šuma Striborova, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 136 reviews.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Slavonski Brod.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Slavonski Brod's best restaurants.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restoran Jelen, an iconic dining spot in Slavonski Brod. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of King's World of Kebap, a popular restaurant in Slavonski Brod. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restoran Gurman, a hidden gem nestled in Slavonski Brod. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Say good night to Slavonski Brod and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!

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Day 7

Day 7 – Slavonski Brod, Grad Varaždin, Trakošćan, and Zagreb

  • Zagreb
  • Varaždin
  • Trakošćan
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Drive 374 km, 4 hours 34 min

  • Old Town, Varaždin
  • Varaždin cemetery
  • Trakoscan Castle
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On day 7 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 Grad Varaždin, and Trakošćan. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zagreb, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Slavonski Brod, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Grad Varaždin. Your travel time is around 2 hours 29 min.

Take the opportunity to see Old Town, Varaždin. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,755 visitors.

Varaždin cemetery is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This cemetery has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 329 travelers.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Trakošćan, 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 Grad Varaždin to Trakošćan may take around 44 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Trakošćan, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make Trakošćan Castle one of your first sightseeing stops in Trakošćan. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 9,806 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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 Zagreb. Zagreb 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 explore more of Zagreb, 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Batak Grill, a top-rated dining destination in Zagreb. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider GOSTIONICA RESTORAN PURGER, 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.

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

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

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Day 8

Day 8 – Zagreb - departure day

  • Zagreb - Departure day
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  • Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb
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Day 8 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.

As your final day in Croatia unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Zagreb's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Croatia.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,049 reviews.

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

If you're in the mood for something new, try RougeMarin, another premier location with a delectable menu.

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!

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