One-Week Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zagreb traveling south to Rijeka, Lika-Senj County, and Zadar

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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, Rijeka, Senj, Jablanac, Lika-Senj County, Grad Skradin, Bogatić, Zadar, Općina Jasenice, and Karlovac County. 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 Rijeka, 1 night in Lika-Senj County, and 2 nights in Zadar. 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. Sea Organ and Krka National Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Zagreb, Rijeka, Senj, Jablanac, Lika-Senj County, Grad Skradin, Bogatić, Zadar, Općina Jasenice, and Karlovac County, 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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Your road trip adventure in Croatia begins as soon as you reach Zagreb and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Zagreb for 2 nights 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.

Find your way to your hotel in Zagreb. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Zinfandel's Restaurant, a top-rated dining spot in Zagreb. If you're in the mood for something new, try Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Rougemarin City. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zagreb.

Continue your lively evening at Tesla New Generation, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Caffe Bar Destino is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Booze And Blues ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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 17 km, 53 min

  • Zagreb Zoo
  • Cathedral of Zagreb
  • Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
  • Nikola Tesla Technical Museum
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Zagreb for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Zagreb today. One of the most interesting attractions included on the itinerary is Zagreb Zoo. This visually striking zoo will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Zagreb Cathedral and learn what makes this majestic church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the popular Ban Josip Jelačić Statue. After exploring the monument, head to Technical Museum. This frequently visited museum is a highlight in Zagreb.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Zagreb. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Tač in Zagreb by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Tač offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious traditional menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Noel, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Beštija, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional contemporary menu.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Krolo, known for its lively atmosphere. Kavana Corso is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Valhalla Beer Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Zagreb and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia!

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Day 3

Day 3 – Zagreb and Rijeka

  • Zagreb
  • Rijeka
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Drive 164 km, 2 hours 24 min

  • Stone Gate
  • Museum of Broken Relationships
  • Lotrščak Tower
  • Botanical Garden of the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb
  • Bundek City Park
  • Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Zagreb. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Rijeka, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a romantic, a visually striking, a historic, a culturally significant, a grand, a breathtaking, and a serene. Whether you decide to explore Zagreb on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Stone Gate is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this historic historical landmark before continuing your journey. Museum Of Broken Relationships is your next stop. This intriguing museum is one of the best-rated sights in Zagreb.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Lotrščak Tower. This stunning historical landmark is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb and Bundek.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Rijeka. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Rijeka by booking a table at Nebo by Deni Srdoč. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Capote y Ole. , another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Charlie Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Wine Bar "kod Zajca" provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001 offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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Day 4

Day 4 – Rijeka, Senj, Jablanac, and Lika-Senj County

  • Rijeka
  • Senj
  • Jablanac
  • Lika-Senj
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Drive 170 km, 3 hours 25 min

  • Church of Mary of God of Trsat
  • Trsat Castle
  • Nehaj Fortress
  • Uvala Zavratnica
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Rijeka, Senj, and Jablanac. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lika-Senj County, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with a charming, a mesmerizing, a photogenic, a historically significant, an inviting, and a culturally significant. Start at the underrated Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat, a grand church in Rijeka. Next, go to Trsat Castle.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Senj. This car ride takes around 1 hour 8 min.

Make your way to Nehaj Fortress, a frequently visited castle that draws attention for its picture-perfect features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Jablanac. This car ride takes around 42 min.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Zavratnica Cove, an underrated canyon that draws visitors from near and far.

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.

Make sure to book a table at The Highlanders pub, a popular restaurant in Lika-Senj County. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Lika-Senj County at Kavana Milinković, 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 Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to 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.

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

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Day 5

Day 5 – Lika-Senj County, Grad Skradin, Bogatić, and Zadar

  • Lika-Senj
  • Skradin
  • Bogatić
  • Zadar
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Drive 267 km, 3 hours 53 min

  • Skradinski buk
  • Krka National Park
  • Roski waterfall
  • More

On day 5 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 Skradin and Bogatić. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zadar, where you will stay for 2 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Lika-Senj County, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Grad Skradin may take around 1 hour 38 min. Upon your arrival in Grad Skradin, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take your self-guided tour to Skradinski Buk, an intriguing waterfall that everyone visiting Grad Skradin should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Spend your afternoon discovering Krka National Park, an astonishing national park known for its eye-catching features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bogatić 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 5 min. Upon reaching Zadar, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make your way to Roski Waterfall, an intriguing waterfall that draws attention for its serene features.

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.

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

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.

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.

Head back to your accommodation in Zadar and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia!

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Day 6

Day 6 – Zadar

  • Zadar
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Drive 4 km, 30 min

  • Sea organ
  • Roman Forum
  • Church of St. Donatus
  • People's Square
  • Market Zadar
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Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Zadar has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Zadar by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Discover a day packed with a charming, an awe-inspiring, a photogenic, a symbolic, a detailed, a heritage-rich, and a profound in Zadar. Begin your sightseeing with Sea Organ. This widely recognized art installation is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Roman Forum, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Zadar, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Church Of St. Donatus. This curiosity-inducing church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Narodni Trg, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Conclude your day at Market Zadar and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most often recommended attractions.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Pet Bunara Dine & Wine is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant 2Ribara. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Zadar tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Pirate Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Bizarre offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Backstage Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Croatia.

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Day 7

Day 7 – Zadar, Općina Jasenice, Rupine, Karlovac County, and Zagreb

  • Zadar
  • Maslenica
  • Karlovac
  • Zagreb
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Drive 315 km, 3 hours 55 min

  • Maslenica Bridge
  • Aquatika
  • Drveni Most
  • Sea organ
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Općina Jasenice, Rupine, and Karlovac County. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zagreb. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Općina Jasenice allows for both.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Općina Jasenice, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Rupine may take around 8 min. Upon your arrival in Rupine, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your self-guided tour starts at Pariževačka Glavica, a locally appreciated cliff that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Rupine, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Karlovac County may take around 2 hours 9 min. Upon your arrival in Karlovac County, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Aquatika. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the aquarium before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Drveni Most. This beloved sightseeing destination is a traveler-favorite in the village.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Zagreb. 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 Zagreb. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at La Štruk, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Tagliata? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Batak Grill as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Zagreb.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. A’e Craft Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Budbar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Mr. Fogg. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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
  • Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
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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.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Zagreb, featuring a charming, an eye-catching, and a heritage-rich. Start at Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb, a locally appreciated performing arts theater in the city.

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

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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