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

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.

Today’s itinerary in Zadar covers several incredible sights, including an art installation, an archeological site, a church, a public square, a market and much more! Start your adventure at Sea Organ. This impressive art installation is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the breathtaking wonders of Roman Forum, a must-see archeological site 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 Church Of St. Donatus. This often recommended church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Narodni Trg, where you can take in romantic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Market Zadar. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Zadar. 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant 2Ribara. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Pirate Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Bizarre offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Backstage Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Perušić, Smiljan, Jablanac, and Senj. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Rijeka. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today's adventure in Lika-Senj County promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Grabovača. This instagrammable cave system is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy Nikola Tesla Memorial Center, another symbolic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Zavratnica Cove, one of the village’s most beloved attractions, known for its standout features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Nehaj Fortress. This picture-perfect castle is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Nebo by Deni Srdoč in Rijeka by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Nebo by Deni Srdoč delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern and creative cuisine. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Capote y Ole. ? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Charlie Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Wine Bar "kod Zajca" offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001 provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable 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.

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Rijeka and 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 Zagreb. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Rijeka, including a castle, a park, a church, a monument and much more! Start your day at Trsat Castle. This visually striking castle is a locally renowned place to see in Rijeka. Then, wander over to Ribnjak Park. If awe-inspiring sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Zagreb Cathedral. This picture-perfect church is a favorite among visitors.

Rijeka 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.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Zagreb. Zagreb 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 Zagreb. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Zagreb by securing a table at Tač. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional traditional menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Noel, famous for its scrumptious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Beštija, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite contemporary cuisine in Zagreb. Located in the heart of the city, this Bib Gourmand-awardee is an ideal pick for contemporary cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Tesla New Generation. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Caffe Bar Destino, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Booze And Blues provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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.

Don’t miss Lower Town (Donji Grad) in Zagreb today, a must-see neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.

Today's adventure in Zagreb promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Park Maksimir. This mesmerizing park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Zagreb Zoo, another eye-catching attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb, one of the city’s most worthwhile attractions, known for its instagrammable features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Bundek. This romantic park is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restoran Taurus, a highly-rated dining destination in Zagreb. If you're eager to try something different, consider Trilogija - Vino & Kuhinja, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Pizzeria Park. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zagreb this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Krolo offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Kavana Corso is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Valhalla Beer Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 7 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 Karlovac County, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Zagreb, including a historical landmark, a museum, and a performing arts theater. Start your day with a visit to Stone Gate. This curiosity-inducing historical landmark is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Museum Of Broken Relationships, which may be one of the most photogenic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Zagreb 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 Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb, an up-and-coming performing arts theater in the city.

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

As you explore more of Karlovac County, 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Pizzeria Tiffany Karlovac, an iconic dining spot in Karlovac County. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Ćevabdžinica Behar, a popular restaurant in Karlovac County. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Konoba Črni kos, a hidden gem nestled in Karlovac County. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Choco Caffe Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Kazališna Kavana. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at R Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Rupine, Općina Jasenice, Općina Ražanac, and Nin. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zadar, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the up-and-coming Pariževačka Glavica, a romantic cliff in Karlovac County. Next, go to Maslenica Bridge.

Solana Nin Salt Museum is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Roko, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Harbor CookHouse & Club is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restoran Urnebes. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Zadar tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Garden Lounge, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Down Town provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Beach Bar Bamboo offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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