6-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zagreb traveling south to Lika-Senj County and Zadar
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Croatia as you embark on an unforgettable 6-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Zagreb, Lika-Senj County, Smiljan, Općina Jasenice, Općina Ražanac, Zadar, Grad Skradin, and Karlovac County.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Croatia takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Zagreb, 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. Marvel at the remarkable Zagreb Zoo, learn more about the unique Ban Josip Jelačić Statue, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Park Maksimir.
As you hit the open road and drive through Zagreb, Lika-Senj County, Smiljan, Općina Jasenice, Općina Ražanac, Zadar, Grad Skradin, 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
- Zagreb - Arrival day
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- Lower Town (Donji Grad)
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Say hello to Zagreb! Your exciting road trip through Croatia is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Zagreb for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
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 Lower Town (Donji Grad), a must-see neighborhood, and 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. 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 Zinfandel's Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Esplanade Zagreb Hotel? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Rougemarin City as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Zagreb.
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 6-day road trip in Croatia!
Day 2
- Zagreb
- Lika-Senj
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Drive 212 km, 2 hours 37 min
- Park Maksimir
- Zagreb Zoo
- Bundek City Park
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Dive into day 2 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 Lika-Senj County. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Park Maksimir. This popular park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Zagreb Zoo, one of the city’s best highlights.
Next, check out Bundek, one of the most well-known places to see in Zagreb. This park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Lika-Senj County's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
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.
Keep the evening going at Caffe Bar Fortuna, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Caffe Bar Amadeus, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Caffe Bar Bevanda, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!
Day 3
- Lika-Senj
- Zadar
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Drive 172 km, 2 hours 46 min
- Nikola Tesla Memorial Center
- Tulove grede
- Paklenica National Park
- Maslenica Bridge
- Pag Bridge
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On day 3 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, Općina Jasenice, Parići, and Općina Ražanac. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zadar, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Nikola Tesla Memorial Center is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Tulove Grede, a worthwhile rock formation, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Paklenica National Park, a visually striking national park, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Lika-Senj County. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the increasingly popular Maslenica Bridge. If you’re looking for more, Paški Most is also an underrated attraction that is worthwhile a visit.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Zadar. Zadar offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Zadar's best restaurants.
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.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Yachting Bar & Club. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Porthos offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Factory Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!
Day 4
- Zadar
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Drive 188 km, 3 hours 6 min
- Krka National Park
- Skradinski buk
- Church of St. Donatus
- Roman Forum
- Sea organ
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Greet day 4 of your road trip in Croatia with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Zadar for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Grad Skradin and Zadar.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Krka National Park. This extraordinary national park is a mesmerizing place to see in Zadar. Continue your discovery at Skradinski Buk, an UNESCO world heritage-listed waterfall with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Zadar, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Church Of St. Donatus. This curiosity-inducing church offers a heritage-rich encounter with Zadar. Next, make your way to Roman Forum to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Sea Organ, a spectacular art installation that’s sure to impress. 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.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Zadar.
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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Pet Bunara Dine & Wine offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurant 2Ribara is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Zadar.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Pirate Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Caffe Bar Bizarre is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Backstage Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!
Day 5
- Zadar
- Zagreb
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Drive 313 km, 3 hours 59 min
- Market Zadar
- People's Square
- Kolovare Beach
- Aquatika
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Zadar and Karlovac County. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zagreb, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and budget-friendly activities in the charming city of Zadar. Your adventure starts at Market Zadar, an increasingly popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Narodni Trg. This locally appreciated public square is known for its eye-catching appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Zadar's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Kolovare Beach. This serene beach offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Aquatika is also worth visiting.
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 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 an extraordinary dining experience at Tač, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible traditional menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Noel is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Zagreb. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Beštija. As a top-rated establishment with a Bib Gourmand status, it is an ideal choice for contemporary cuisine in the city.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Krolo, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Kavana Corso, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Valhalla Beer Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!
Day 6
- Zagreb - Departure day
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- Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
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Day 6 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.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Ban Josip Jelačić Statue, a symbolic monument before you head out.
As your final day in Croatia unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Zagreb's best shopping area, Centar Cvjetni. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Croatia. When you need a break, visit a cafe and relax with a cup of coffee or tea.
Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Zagreb.
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.
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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