10-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar to Rijeka, Zagreb, Šibenik, and Split and surrounding area

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Zadar. You’ll stay in Zadar for 1 night.

Church Of St. Donatus makes a great addition to your morning plans. This underrated church is a photogenic place to see in Zadar. Continue your discovery at Zadar Cathedral, a historic church 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 Roman Forum. This up-and-coming archeological site offers a historic encounter with Zadar. Next, make your way to Sea Organ to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Monument To The Sun, an underrated art installation 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.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Croatia. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a highly-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're eager to try something different, consider Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant 2Ribara. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent 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.

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

On day 3 of your road trip in Croatia, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Smiljan, Jablanac, and Senj are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rijeka, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Nikola Tesla Memorial Center leaves a lasting impression. This museum is one of the most worthwhile places to visit in Zadar. Next, head to Zavratnica Cove, an increasingly popular canyon, known for its eye-catching 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 Nehaj Fortress. This culturally significant castle is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Nebo by Deni Srdoč, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern and creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Capote y Ole. Is another top choice with a popular menu.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Charlie Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Wine Bar "kod Zajca" is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001 is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Wake up to day 4 of your road trip in Croatia. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Pula. With 1 night to stay in Rijeka, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Awaiting your discovery is the notable Aquarium Pula, an eye-catching aquarium in Rijeka. Next, go to Temple Of Augustus.

After visiting Aquarium Pula and Temple Of Augustus, have a stroll along Rijeka's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Forum Square. This visually striking public square offers a unique experience. Pula Arena is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Rijeka.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Trattoria Krug, a highly-rated dining destination in Rijeka. If you're eager to try something different, consider Zelena Dolina, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Buffet "Cocco". With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Rijeka this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Teatro Lounge Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Book Caffe Dnevni Boravak, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Pub "bačva" provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Zagreb. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Zagreb, where you'll spend 1 night.

Start your day at Bundek. This serene park is a popular place to see in Rijeka. Then, wander over to Park Maksimir. If serene sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Zagreb Zoo. This photogenic zoo 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, Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb is a curiosity-inducing spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the performing arts theater, don’t forget to check out the photogenic Ban Josip Jelačić Statue. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this well-known monument.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Zagreb. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Zagreb is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Zagreb.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Zinfandel's Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Zagreb. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Rougemarin City. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zagreb this evening.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Šibenik, Dubrava kod Šibenika, and Split. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Split, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Awaiting your discovery is the worthwhile St. Nicholas’ Fortress, a symbolic castle in Šibenik. Next, go to Šibenik Cathedral.

After visiting St. Nicholas’ Fortress and Šibenik Cathedral, have a stroll along Šibenik's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to St. John's Fort. This enchanting castle offers a unique experience. Falconry Center is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Marjan, one of the most idyllic places to visit in Šibenik.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Split's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Make sure to reserve a table at Nevera Tavern, an iconic dining spot in Split. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. 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. Experience the culinary magic of Konoba Laganini, a hidden gem nestled in Split. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, La Linea offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Fabrique Pub, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Day 8 of your road trip across Croatia promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Split. You have 1 night left in Split. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Experience Kašjuni Beach, an up-and-coming beach in the city. Then, head to West Bank and soak in the ambiance of this romantic boardwalk.

There are many interesting places to see in Split, and when you are ready for more, go to Saint Domnius Bell Tower. This is one of the city’s most up-and-coming UNESCO world heritage-listed spots of interest. After exploring the monument, visit the astonishing Diocletian's Palace. Not far away, you'll also find Golden Gate. This historical landmark is an UNESCO world heritage-designated highlight in Split.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Croatia. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Split's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Dine in style at Babylon, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, DeListes restaurant Split boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bokeria Kitchen & Wine. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Split.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Caffe Bar Mythos stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Legis offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Caffe Bar Tik is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 places, which are Grad Benkovac, Grad Biograd na Moru, Općina Jasenice, and Rupine. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zadar, where will spend 1 night.

Make time for Vidikovac, Kamenjak, a frequently visited observation deck that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Plaža Dražica, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at Plaža Soline. This beach is one of the town’s most worthwhile spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Split at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Maslenica Bridge. After exploring the deck arch bridge, head to the up-and-coming Pariževačka Glavica.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Zadar. Check in and relax 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 Zadar. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

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

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Garden Lounge after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Down Town for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Beach Bar Bamboo is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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