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

Day 2 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Zagreb. You’ll stay in Zagreb for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Lower Town (Donji Grad), a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Zagreb. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions. Another must-visit is Ilica, a street offering a different perspective on Zagreb.

Experience Park Maksimir, a notable park in the city. Then, head to Zagreb Zoo and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking zoo.

There are many interesting places to see in Zagreb, and when you are ready for more, go to Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb. This is one of the city’s most worthwhile instagrammable spots of interest.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Croatia. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Zagreb's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

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.

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

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

Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Zagreb has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Zagreb.

Set aside time today to explore Upper Town (Gornji Grad), a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.

Bundek is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This instagrammable park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Croatian Museum Of Contemporary Art, another must-visit landmark and often recommended museum renowned for its visually striking features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Zagreb by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb. This instagrammable botanical garden is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Zagreb experience. We also recommend visiting Technical Museum, an often recommended museum.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Croatia. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Zagreb, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting A’e Craft Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Budbar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Mr. Fogg also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in Croatia includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Zagreb. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Karlovac County, where you'll spend 1 night.

Strossmayer Promenade is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This visually striking street is sure to impress. Next on your list is Lotrščak Tower, another must-visit landmark and often recommended historical landmark renowned for its historic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Zagreb by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Museum Of Broken Relationships. This visually striking museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Zagreb experience. We also recommend visiting Stone Gate, a worthwhile historical landmark.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Karlovac County. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Karlovac County's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Pizzeria Tiffany Karlovac, a popular restaurant in Karlovac County. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Karlovac County at Ćevabdžinica Behar, 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 Konoba Črni kos. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Karlovac County tonight.

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

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

On day 5 of your road trip in Croatia, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Plitvica Selo, Korenica, and Smiljan are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lika-Senj County, where you will stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Plitvica Selo. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 18 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Great Waterfall, a locally appreciated waterfall that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking in Plitvica Selo’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 13 min. When you arrive in Korenica, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Plitvice Lakes National Park. Spend some time admiring the UNESCO world heritage-listed features of the national park before you continue to your next stop.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Smiljan may take around 1 hour 19 min. Upon your arrival in Smiljan, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

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

At the end of the day, you will drive to Lika-Senj County, 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 Lika-Senj County's best restaurants.

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.

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

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Split. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Split, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Split may take around 2 hours 20 min. Upon your arrival in Split, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Marjan, a captivating park in Split. Explore its stunning features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, West Bank. This intriguing boardwalk is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Diocletian's Palace is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most UNESCO world heritage-designated palace in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the increasingly popular Golden Gate and discover what makes this historical landmark unique.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Split. Split offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Split by booking a table at Šug. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of regional cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Perivoj restoran i kavana, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, La Linea offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Fabrique Pub. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Zadar. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Zadar, where you'll spend 1 night.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Zadar.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Sea Organ. Spend some time admiring the masterful features of the art installation before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Monument To The Sun. This beloved art installation is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Roman Forum. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the archeological site. Next, take your journey to Zadar Cathedral, a beloved church. Conclude your sightseeing at Church Of St. Donatus, known for its monumental features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Zadar. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Zadar is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Zadar.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Pizzeria Šime, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Harvatski restorant "Galiya" offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restoran Zadar - Jadera is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Zadar.

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.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Croatia!