6-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar traveling north to Senj, Zagreb, and Lika-Senj County
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 6-day road trip through Croatia. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
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 Zadar, 1 night in Senj, 1 night in Zagreb, and 1 night in Lika-Senj County. 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 Zadar, 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 Zadar, Senj, Zagreb, Lika-Senj County, Grad Skradin, Bogatić, and Općina Bibinje, 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
- Zadar - Arrival day
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- Kolovare Beach
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Your road trip adventure in Croatia begins as soon as you reach Zadar and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Zadar for 1 night 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.
Zadar 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 Kolovare Beach, or just 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 Zadar. 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 Zadar, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Don’t miss out on dining at Pizzeria Šime, a top-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Harvatski restorant "Galiya", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.
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.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Croatia!
Day 2
- Zadar
- Senj
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Drive 176 km, 2 hours 33 min
- People's Square
- Church of St. Donatus
- Roman Forum
- Sea organ
- The Greeting to the Sun
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Zadar. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Senj, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Narodni Trg. This curiosity-inducing public square is an awe-inspiring place to see in Zadar. Continue your discovery at Church Of St. Donatus, a culturally significant church 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 Roman Forum. This beloved archeological site offers a culturally significant encounter with Zadar. Next, make your way to Sea Organ to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Monument To The Sun, a worthwhile 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 for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Senj. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Senj. 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 delicious meal at Pizzeria King, a top-rated dining destination in Senj. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bistro i Caffe bar "Kod tri mornara", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Uskok. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Senj this evening.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Pirassa Caffe Gelateria. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Cafe Bar Julijus, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Erna provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Croatia!
Day 3
- Senj
- Zagreb
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Drive 174 km, 2 hours 40 min
- Park Maksimir
- Zagreb Zoo
- Botanical Garden of the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb
- Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb
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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 Zagreb. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zagreb, where you will stay for 1 night.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Senj. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Park Maksimir is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most interesting places to visit in Senj. Next, head to Zagreb Zoo, an interesting zoo, known for its photogenic features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb. This mesmerizing botanical garden is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Zagreb, 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 Zagreb. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
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.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Tesla New Generation, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Destino offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Booze And Blues provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Head back to your accommodation in Zagreb and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 4
- Zagreb
- Lika-Senj
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Drive 204 km, 2 hours 18 min
- Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
- Cathedral of Zagreb
- Bundek City Park
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Zagreb. 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.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. 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. Ban Josip Jelačić Statue is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this symbolic monument before continuing your journey. Zagreb Cathedral is your next stop. This interesting church 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 Bundek. This serene park is a sight to behold.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Lika-Senj County. Lika-Senj County 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 Lika-Senj County's best restaurants.
Have a fantastic dining experience at The Highlanders pub, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Kavana Milinković offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Lika-Senj County.
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 and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 5
- Lika-Senj
- Zadar
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Drive 273 km, 4 hours 4 min
- Skradinski buk
- Krka National Park
- Roski waterfall
- Plaža Punta Rožica
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Grad Skradin, Bogatić, and Općina Bibinje, 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 Zadar. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Lika-Senj County, including a waterfall, a national park, and a beach. Start your day with a visit to Skradinski Buk. This underrated waterfall is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Krka National Park, which may be one of the most mesmerizing places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Lika-Senj County on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Roski Waterfall, a curiosity-inducing waterfall in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Plaža Punta Rožica.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Zadar. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Zadar, 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.
Savor the flavors at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Pet Bunara Dine & Wine beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant 2Ribara. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zadar tonight.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Pirate Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Caffe Bar Bizarre, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Backstage Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!
Day 6
- Zadar - Departure day
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- Queen Jelena Madijevka Park
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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 Zadar 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 Queen Jelena Madijevka Park, a romantic park before you head out.
As your final day in Croatia unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Zadar's best shopping area, City Galleria. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Croatia. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home.
Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Zadar.
Dine in style at Roko, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Harbor CookHouse & Club boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
You’ll then say farewell to Zadar. 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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