9-Day Croatia Road Trip from Zadar traveling north to Lika-Senj County, Rijeka, Zagreb, and Karlovac County

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Zadar. You’ll stay in Zadar for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Make Market Zadar your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,813 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Narodni Trg. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,796 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this point of interest every year.

Church Of St. Donatus is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This church building has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,882 visitors.

When you’re finished at Church Of St. Donatus, the perfect next stop is Roman Forum. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,872 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Sea Organ. This tide organ is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 58,697 reviews.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Zadar on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Zadar. 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 delicious dinner at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Pet Bunara Dine & Wine offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant 2Ribara. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zadar.

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

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Grad Skradin, and Bogatić, 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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Grad Skradin, 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 Skradin may take around 1 hour 8 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Grad Skradin, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make Skradinski Buk one of your first sightseeing stops in Grad Skradin. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,649 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Krka National Park. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 59,505 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 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 you explore more of Lika-Senj County, 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at The Highlanders pub, an iconic dining spot in Lika-Senj County. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Kavana Milinković, a popular restaurant in Lika-Senj County. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav, a hidden gem nestled in Lika-Senj County. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Caffe Bar Fortuna offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Caffe Bar Amadeus is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Caffe Bar Bevanda is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 4 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 Smiljan, Krasno, and Senj. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rijeka, where you will stay for 1 night.

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!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Nikola Tesla Memorial Center. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Smiljan, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,029 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Krasno. This car ride takes around 1 hour 9 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Northern Velebit National Park. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 1,517 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Rijeka, 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 Rijeka. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Start your culinary exploration in Rijeka by securing a reservation at Nebo by Deni Srdoč. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern, and creative cuisine. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Capote y Ole. , a popular restaurant in Rijeka. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Charlie Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Wine Bar "kod Zajca" is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001 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!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Rijeka, and Zagreb. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zagreb, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,546 visitors.

Trsat Castle is another popular attraction you could visit today. This castle has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,774 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Rijeka, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Zagreb may take around 1 hour 58 min. Upon your arrival in Zagreb, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Kick off the day at Park Maksimir, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 19,618 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Zagreb Zoo. Zagreb Zoo is a zoo with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 24,493 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Zagreb, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Zagreb by reserving a table at Tač. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional traditional menu. For a different taste experience, head to Noel, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Beštija, a local favorite known for its delightful contemporary cuisine in Zagreb. Nestled in the heart of the city, this Bib Gourmand awardee is an ideal choice for discerning contemporary foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Tesla New Generation, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Caffe Bar Destino is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Booze And Blues is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Zagreb for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Take the opportunity to see Stone Gate. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,706 visitors.

Museum Of Broken Relationships is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This museum has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 7,174 travelers.

Zagreb is also the home of Lotrščak Tower. Around 3,584 people have rated this fortified tower an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 9,049 reviews, a visit to this sightseeing destination is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Zagreb is also your chance to admire Bundek. This must-visit lake enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,435 reviews.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Pizzeria Park, a top-rated dining destination in Zagreb. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Roots - juice & cocktail bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Tagliata. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zagreb this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Krolo, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Kavana Corso offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Zagreb. Valhalla Beer Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 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 Karlovac County, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see Ban Josip Jelačić Statue. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,166 visitors.

Zagreb Cathedral is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 16,501 travelers.

Zagreb is also the home of Ribnjak Park. Around 4,349 people have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 6,694 reviews, a visit to this park is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Zagreb is also your chance to admire Technical Museum. This must-visit museum enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,422 reviews.

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 Karlovac County. Karlovac 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 Karlovac County's best restaurants.

Dine in style at Pizzeria Tiffany Karlovac, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Ćevabdžinica Behar boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Konoba Črni kos. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Karlovac County.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Choco Caffe Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Kazališna Kavana offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Karlovac County. R Bar 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.