9-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Split to Lika-Senj County, Zagreb, Senj, and Zadar

On day 2 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 Lika-Senj County, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Split allows for both. Start by heading to Golden Gate. This increasingly popular historical landmark provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Diocletian's Palace, a history-steeped palace, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Diocletian's Cellars, an underrated archeological site. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the popular Marjan. Round off your day at Kašjuni Beach, another gem in Split with romantic features to discover.

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.

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.

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

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Zagreb, 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 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Zagreb. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 10 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Park Maksimir. Spend some time admiring the mesmerizing features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Zagreb Zoo. This captivating zoo is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find Zagreb Cathedral. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the church. Next, continue your journey to Ban Josip Jelačić Statue, an interesting monument.

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.

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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Zagreb by booking a table at Tač. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of traditional cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Noel, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Beštija, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing contemporary menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

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.

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.

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Zagreb for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Make sure to visit Upper Town (Gornji Grad), a popular neighborhood in Zagreb. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and picturesque spots in Zagreb. Begin your sightseeing with Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb. This intriguing performing arts theater is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Bundek, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

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.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restoran Taurus, 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 Pizzeria Park, 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 Roots - juice & cocktail bar, a hidden gem nestled in Zagreb. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Krolo, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Kavana Corso provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Valhalla Beer Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

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 Rijeka. In the evening, you’ll end up in Senj, where you will stay for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Rijeka.

Your self-guided tour starts at City Clock Tower, an up-and-coming monument that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat and admire its enchanting features. When you’re ready, continue to Trsat Castle, a popular castle beloved by locals and tourists alike.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Senj, 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 Senj's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Savor the flavors at Pizzeria King, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bistro i Caffe bar "Kod tri mornara" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant Uskok. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Senj tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Pirassa Caffe Gelateria, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Cafe Bar Julijus is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Erna also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Senj, Općina Jasenice, Rupine, and Parići. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zadar. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Park Nehaj is must-visit castle and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Nehaj Fortress, a curiosity-inducing castle, located just a leisurely stroll away.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Senj, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Općina Jasenice. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 37 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Take your self-guided tour to Maslenica Bridge, a curiosity-inducing deck arch bridge that everyone visiting Općina Jasenice should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Općina Jasenice and set your GPS to Rupine. 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 8 min. Upon reaching Rupine, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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

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.

Dine in style at Pizzeria Šime, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Harvatski restorant "Galiya" boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restoran Zadar - Jadera. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zadar.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Yachting Bar & Club, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Caffe Bar Porthos offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Zadar. The Factory Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Day 7 of your road trip across Croatia promises a magnificent time exploring Zadar. You have 1 night left in Zadar. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Sea Organ. This spectacular art installation is a detailed place to see in Zadar. Continue your discovery at Roman Forum, a standout archeological site with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Zadar, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Church Of St. Donatus. This worthwhile church offers a culturally significant encounter with Zadar. Narodni Trg is the last of our recommendations for today. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Zadar.

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 Zadar. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant 2Ribara. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

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

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Grad Vodice, Grad Skradin, and Bogatić. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Split, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Grad Vodice, 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 Zadar to Grad Vodice may take around 1 hour 2 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Grad Vodice, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Aquarium & Museum Of Maritime Tradition, an up-and-coming aquarium that draws visitors from near and far.

After soaking in Grad Vodice’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Grad Skradin. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 39 min. When you arrive in Grad Skradin, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Skradinski Buk. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the waterfall before you continue to your next stop.

Take your self-guided tour to Krka National Park, a top-rated national park that everyone visiting Grad Vodice should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Split's best restaurants.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Šug in Split by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Šug offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious regional menu. If you're looking to mix things up, DeListes restaurant Split offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!