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

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Zadar for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Zadar allows for both. Start by heading to Sea Organ. This astonishing art installation provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Roman Forum, a picture-perfect archeological site, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Church Of St. Donatus, a frequently visited church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the beloved Narodni Trg. Round off your day at Market Zadar, another gem in Zadar with instagrammable features to discover.

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.

Bring home unique finds from Zadar's bustling shopping hub, City Galleria. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique boutiques and stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, City Galleria offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Zadar's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Pet Bunara Dine & Wine is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant 2Ribara. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Zadar tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Pirate Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Caffe Bar Bizarre is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Backstage Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!

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 Perušić, Smiljan, Jablanac, and Senj. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rijeka, where you will stay for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Lika-Senj County’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Grabovača. This visually striking cave system is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the photogenic features of Nikola Tesla Memorial Center, a must-visit museum in the village.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Zavratnica Cove, an underrated canyon. For a change of scene, check out Nehaj Fortress, known for its instagrammable features.

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.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Rijeka's best restaurants.

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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Charlie Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Wine Bar "kod Zajca" offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001 is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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.

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.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming city of Rijeka. Your adventure starts at Trsat Castle, a captivating local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Ribnjak Park. This intriguing park is known for its standout appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Rijeka's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Zagreb Cathedral. This culturally significant church offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Ban Josip Jelačić Statue 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 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Zagreb by reserving a table at Tač. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of traditional cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Noel, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Beštija, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite contemporary menu. With a Bib Gourmand acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zagreb.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Tesla New Generation, known for its lively atmosphere. Caffe Bar Destino is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Booze And Blues offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Zagreb has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Zagreb by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Make sure to visit Lower Town (Donji Grad), a popular neighborhood in Zagreb. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming city of Zagreb. Your adventure starts at Park Maksimir, a locally renowned local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Zagreb Zoo. This notable zoo is known for its mesmerizing appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Zagreb's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb. This mesmerizing botanical garden offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Bundek is also worth visiting.

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.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Restoran Taurus, a top-rated dining destination in Zagreb. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Trilogija - Vino & Kuhinja, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Pizzeria Park. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zagreb this evening.

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

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day 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.

Zagreb is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Stone Gate, an intriguing historical landmark that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Museum Of Broken Relationships, enchanting visitors with its visually striking appeal. Continue your exploration at Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb. This performing arts theater is one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots.

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

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

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.

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

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Rupine, Općina Jasenice, Općina Ražanac, and Nin, 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.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Karlovac County on today’s itinerary. First up is the increasingly popular cliff, Pariževačka Glavica. Afterward, continue to Maslenica Bridge, a deck arch bridge every traveler should visit.

As you explore Karlovac County’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the hamlet. Next, make your way to Paški Most. This underrated road bridge is an essential stop. Following that, head to Solana Nin Salt Museum, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Zadar, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Roko, a popular restaurant in Zadar. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zadar at Harbor CookHouse & Club, 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 Restoran Urnebes. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zadar tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Garden Lounge, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Down Town is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Beach Bar Bamboo is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Say good night to Zadar and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!