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

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Zagreb has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Zagreb by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Zagreb is Lower Town (Donji Grad). Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby. You can also explore Ilica, a street that offers a glimpse into local life and culture.

Get ready for an exciting day in Zagreb. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a park, a zoo, and a performing arts theater. Begin your adventure at Park Maksimir. This is a notable park you should not miss. Another must-see is Zagreb Zoo, a captivating zoo in Zagreb.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb.

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.

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.

Start your culinary exploration in Zagreb by securing a reservation at Tač. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of traditional cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Noel, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Beštija, a top local spot known for its tantalizing contemporary menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Krolo after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Kavana Corso for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Valhalla Beer Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Day 3 of your road trip across Croatia promises a magnificent time exploring Zagreb. You have 1 night left in Zagreb. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Set aside time today to explore Upper Town (Gornji Grad), a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Zagreb, including a park, a museum, and a botanical garden. Start your day at Bundek. This eye-catching park is a notable place to see in Zagreb. Then, wander over to Croatian Museum Of Contemporary Art. If eye-catching sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb. This romantic botanical garden is a favorite among visitors.

Zagreb offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Technical Museum is a curiosity-inducing spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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 Zagreb as you explore Centar Cvjetni. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Centar Cvjetni offers more options, including cafes, unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.

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

Savor the flavors at Roots - juice & cocktail bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Štruk beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Tagliata. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zagreb tonight.

Continue your lively evening at A’e Craft Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Budbar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Mr. Fogg ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 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.

Start by visiting Strossmayer Promenade, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking street is sure to impress. Next on your list is Lotrščak Tower, another must-visit landmark and increasingly popular historical landmark renowned for its culturally significant features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Zagreb by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Museum Of Broken Relationships. This picture-perfect museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Zagreb experience. We also recommend visiting Stone Gate, an up-and-coming historical landmark.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Karlovac County. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Pizzeria Tiffany Karlovac, a highly-rated dining destination in Karlovac County. If you're eager to try something different, consider Ćevabdžinica Behar, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Konoba Črni kos. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Karlovac County this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Choco Caffe Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Kazališna Kavana offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Karlovac County. R Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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 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 Plitvica Selo, Korenica, and Smiljan. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lika-Senj County, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Karlovac County includes a waterfall, a national park, and a museum. Great Waterfall is must-visit waterfall and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Plitvice Lakes National Park, a wondrous national park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Nikola Tesla Memorial Center, a symbolic museum, also available for your discovery today.

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.

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Caffe Bar Fortuna, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Caffe Bar Amadeus, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Caffe Bar Bevanda likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Croatia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore 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 Split. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Lika-Senj County is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Marjan, an interesting park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find West Bank, enchanting visitors with its stunning appeal. Continue your exploration at Diocletian's Palace. This palace is one of the city’s most spectacular spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Lika-Senj County at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Golden Gate.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Split. Split 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 Split's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Split by reserving a table at Šug. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional regional menu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Perivoj restoran i kavana, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to La Linea, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Fabrique Pub also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Zadar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zadar, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Sea Organ. This impressive art installation is a culturally significant place to see in Split. Continue your discovery at Monument To The Sun, a romantic art installation with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Split, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Roman Forum. This frequently visited archeological site offers a picture-perfect encounter with Split. Next, make your way to Zadar Cathedral to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Church Of St. Donatus, an increasingly popular church 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 Split.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Pizzeria Šime, an iconic dining spot in Zadar. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Harvatski restorant "Galiya", a popular restaurant in Zadar. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restoran Zadar - Jadera, a hidden gem nestled in Zadar. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Yachting Bar & Club is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Caffe Bar Porthos, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is The Factory Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Croatia.