11-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zagreb traveling east to Lika-Senj County, Zadar, Split, Lovinac, Grad Varaždin, and Osijek

Day 2 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.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Zagreb, including a park, a zoo, a botanical garden, a performing arts theater and much more! Start your day with a visit to Park Maksimir. This popular park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Zagreb Zoo, which may be one of the most eye-catching 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 Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb, a curiosity-inducing botanical garden in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb and Bundek.

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.

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.

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.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Croatia!

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 Lika-Senj County, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures in the charming city of Zagreb. Your adventure starts at Ban Josip Jelačić Statue, an interesting local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Stone Gate. This locally appreciated historical landmark is known for its symbolic 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 Ribnjak Park. This romantic park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Zagreb Cathedral is also worth visiting.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Highlanders pub, a highly-rated dining destination in Lika-Senj County. If you're eager to try something different, consider Kavana Milinković, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lika-Senj County this evening.

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

Say good night to Lika-Senj County and look forward to another great day 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 2 vibrant destinations - Parići and Zadar. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zadar. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start by visiting Paklenica National Park, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking national park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Sea Organ, another must-visit landmark and spectacular art installation renowned for its detailed features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Lika-Senj County by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Monument To The Sun. This enchanting art installation is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Lika-Senj County experience. We also recommend visiting Roman Forum, an increasingly popular archeological site. Nearby, you'll also find Church Of St. Donatus, ready to add charm to your journey.

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 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 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.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Yachting Bar & Club, known for its lively atmosphere. Caffe Bar Porthos is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Factory Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Zadar and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Zadar 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 Split. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and budget-friendly activities. The first attraction of today is Market Zadar. This worthwhile market is an instagrammable place to see in Zadar. Continue your discovery at Narodni Trg, a romantic public square 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 Queen Jelena Madijevka Park. This locally appreciated park offers a romantic encounter with Zadar. Next, make your way to Marjan to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Diocletian's Palace, a widely recognized palace 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 Split, 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 Split. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Start your culinary exploration in Split by securing a reservation at Šug. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of regional cuisine. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Perivoj restoran i kavana, a popular restaurant in Split. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. La Linea is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Fabrique Pub provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Mihaljekov Jarek, Grad Krapina, and Radoboj. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Grad Varaždin, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Museum Of Neandertals In Krapina, a visually striking museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Muzej Radboa, one of the village’s most underrated spots that you shouldn’t miss.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Grad Varaždin. 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 Grad Varaždin. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Cafe Haustor, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restoran Angelus is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Medonja. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Grad Varaždin tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Caffe Bar Madera offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Sax - Pub is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. My Way Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Croatia!

On day 9 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Osijek, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Osijek, including a museum, a monument, a church, a nature reserve and much more! Start your day with a visit to Memorijalni Centar Domovinskog Rata. This locally appreciated museum is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Vukovar Water Tower, which may be one of the most instagrammable places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Osijek 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 Church Of St. Philip And St. Jacob, an underrated church in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Kopački Rit Nature Park.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Osijek and your accommodation.

As you explore more of Osijek, 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 a delicious meal at Hokus Okus - Čarolija Okusa, a top-rated dining destination in Osijek. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pečenjarnica "Zeleni val", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran Karaka Osijek. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Osijek this evening.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Tvrđavica, Osijek, and Đakovo. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zagreb. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Osijek. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await! Zoo Osijek is the perfect place to start. This zoo is one of the most up-and-coming places to visit in Osijek. Next, head to Sakuntala Park, a beloved park, known for its idyllic 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 Youth Pedestrian Bridge. This stunning boardwalk is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Đakovo Cathedral. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Roots - juice & cocktail bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Štruk offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Tagliata. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zagreb.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at A’e Craft Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Budbar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Mr. Fogg provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Croatia!