One-Week Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar traveling east to Lika-Senj County, Zagreb, Ogulin, and Šibenik
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-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 3 nights in Zadar, 1 night in Lika-Senj County, 1 night in Zagreb, 1 night in Ogulin, and 1 night in Šibenik. 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. Diocletian's Palace and Sea Organ are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Krka National Park, learn more about the unique Zagreb Zoo, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Ban Josip Jelačić Statue.
As you hit the open road and drive through Zadar, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Smiljan, Lika-Senj County, Zagreb, Ogulin, Bogatić, Grad Skradin, Šibenik, and Split, 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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- People's Square
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Say hello to Zadar! 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 Zadar for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!
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 Narodni Trg, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Zadar. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Pizzeria Šime, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Harvatski restorant "Galiya" is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Zadar tonight.
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.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Croatia!
Day 2
- Zadar
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Drive 4 km, 32 min
- The Greeting to the Sun
- Sea organ
- Roman Forum
- Church of St. Donatus
- Cathedral of St. Anastasia
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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.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Zadar, including an art installation, an archeological site, and a church. Start your day at Monument To The Sun. This visually striking art installation is an often recommended place to see in Zadar. Then, wander over to Sea Organ. If culturally significant sites excite you, this art installation will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Roman Forum. This standout archeological site is a favorite among visitors.
Zadar offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Church Of St. Donatus is a worthwhile spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the church, don’t forget to check out the awe-inspiring Zadar Cathedral. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this up-and-coming church.
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.
Experience shopping bliss at Zadar as you explore City Galleria. Take a leisurely stroll through unique boutiques and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, City Galleria offers more options, including unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Zadar. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight'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.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Pirate Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Caffe Bar Bizarre, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Backstage Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!
Day 3
- Zadar
- Lika-Senj
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Drive 188 km, 3 hours 7 min
- Pag Bridge
- Maslenica Bridge
- Pariževačka glavica
- Paklenica National Park
- Nikola Tesla Memorial Center
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 5 vibrant destinations - Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Rupine, Parići, and Smiljan. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lika-Senj County. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Paški Most.
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 Pariževačka Glavica. This intriguing cliff offers a peaceful encounter with Zadar. Next, make your way to Paklenica National Park to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Nikola Tesla Memorial Center, an often recommended museum 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.
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.
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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Highlanders pub, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Kavana Milinković? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Lika-Senj County.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Caffe Bar Fortuna, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Caffe Bar Amadeus is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Caffe Bar Bevanda is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!
Day 4
- Lika-Senj
- Zagreb
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Drive 205 km, 2 hours 31 min
- Bundek City Park
- Cathedral of Zagreb
- Stone Gate
- Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
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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 Zagreb. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zagreb, where you will stay for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Lika-Senj County, including a park, a church, a historical landmark, a monument and much more! Start your day at Bundek. This serene park is a popular place to see in Lika-Senj County. Then, wander over to Zagreb Cathedral. If symbolic sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Stone Gate. This stunning historical landmark is a favorite among visitors.
Lika-Senj County offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Ban Josip Jelačić Statue is a popular spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.
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 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.
Have a memorable dining experience in Zagreb by booking a table at Tač, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional traditional menu. For a different culinary experience in Zagreb, Noel shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Beštija is known as a top local spot for its delicious contemporary cuisine in Zagreb. This Bib Gourmand awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.
Continue your lively evening at Tesla New Generation, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Caffe Bar Destino is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Booze And Blues ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!
Day 5
- Zagreb
- Ogulin
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Drive 115 km, 1 hour 50 min
- Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb
- Park Maksimir
- Zagreb Zoo
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 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 Ogulin, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s itinerary in Zagreb covers several incredible sights, including a performing arts theater, a park, and a zoo. Start your adventure at Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb. This beloved performing arts theater is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the mesmerizing wonders of Park Maksimir, a must-see park in the city.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Zagreb Zoo. This notable zoo offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Ogulin. Ogulin 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 Ogulin. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Pizzeria Antica, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Slastičarnica & FastFood Korzo offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Pizzeria Bonino is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Ogulin.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Cafe Cocktail, known for its lively atmosphere. Caffe Bar Jazzbina is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.
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
- Ogulin
- Šibenik
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Drive 297 km, 4 hours 7 min
- Roski waterfall
- Krka National Park
- Skradinski buk
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On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Bogatić and Grad Skradin. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Šibenik, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Ogulin on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Roski Waterfall is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this eye-catching waterfall before continuing your journey. Krka National Park is your next stop. This widely recognized national park is one of the best-rated sights in Ogulin.
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 Skradinski Buk. This eye-catching waterfall is a sight to behold.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Šibenik, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you explore more of Šibenik, 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.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Pelegrini, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Šibenik at Fry Guy, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Caffe Palma, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Mystic provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Azimut offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Head back to your accommodation in Šibenik and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 7
- Šibenik
- Zadar
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Drive 255 km, 3 hours 32 min
- St. Jacob’s Cathedral
- Forest Park Marjan
- Golden Gate
- Diocletian's Palace
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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Šibenik and Split, 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.
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the curiosity-inducing Šibenik Cathedral, an inviting church in Šibenik. Next, go to Marjan.
After visiting Šibenik Cathedral and Marjan, have a stroll along Šibenik's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Golden Gate. This photogenic historical landmark offers a unique experience. Diocletian's Palace is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Zadar's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Roko, a top-rated dining spot in Zadar. If you're in the mood for something new, try Harbor CookHouse & Club, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restoran Urnebes. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zadar.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Garden Lounge stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Down Town offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Beach Bar Bamboo is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Say good night to Zadar and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 8
- Zadar - Departure day
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- Kolovare Beach
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Day 8 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 Kolovare Beach, an idyllic beach before you head out.
On your last day in Croatia, take time to indulge in shopping at Zadar’s popular marketplace, City Galleria. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces.
Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Zadar.
Have a fantastic dining experience at GRICKO, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Konoba Rafaelo offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.
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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