Relaxed 11-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Split to Zadar and Lika-Senj County

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia, you’ll go deep into Split, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Split, and meet locals along the way!

To truly experience Split, make sure to drop by Golden Gate. This beloved historical landmark is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Diocletian's Palace, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Saint Domnius Bell Tower, one of the most increasingly popular places to see in Split. This monument is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Diocletian's Cellars. Wander around and soak in the standout atmosphere this archeological site offers. Then, head to West Bank, a top-rated boardwalk that adds another dimension to your day.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Croatia. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Croatia and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Discover the culinary delights of Split by securing a reservation at Šug. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of regional cuisine. Alternatively, DeListes restaurant Split beckons with its unique menu offerings.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Split. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

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

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip in Croatia, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Zadar and visit amazing attractions in Nin, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Rupine, and Parići, just outside the city. You still have 3 nights left in Zadar, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Experience Solana Nin Salt Museum, a frequently visited museum in the town.

After exploring the deck arch bridge, visit the up-and-coming Pariževačka Glavica. Not far away, you'll also find Paklenica National Park. This national park is an awe-inspiring highlight in Zadar.

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

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Croatia, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Zadar.

Savor the flavors at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Pet Bunara Dine & Wine beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant 2Ribara. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zadar tonight.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Zadar.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Pirate Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Caffe Bar Bizarre, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Backstage Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Croatia!

On day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia, you’ll go deep into Zadar, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Zadar, and meet locals along the way!

Monument To The Sun makes a great addition to your morning plans. This up-and-coming art installation is a romantic place to see in Zadar. Continue your discovery at Sea Organ, a visually striking art installation 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 increasingly popular archeological site offers a culturally significant encounter with Zadar. Next, make your way to Church Of St. Donatus to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Zadar Cathedral, a curiosity-inducing 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 Zadar.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Croatia more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Zadar offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Exploring the food culture in Zadar offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

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

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Garden Lounge. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Down Town offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Beach Bar Bamboo, another top-rated bar in the area.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Zadar as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in Croatia!

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip through Croatia means 24 hours of making the best memories in Zadar. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Zadar. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Zadar!

Let Kolovare Beach set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this eye-catching beach before continuing your journey. The Five Wells Square is your next stop. This underrated public square is one of the best-rated sights in Zadar.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Queen Jelena Madijevka Park. This eye-catching park is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Narodni Trg and Market Zadar.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Croatia. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Croatia and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Zadar, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Dine in style at GRICKO, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Konoba Rafaelo boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Konoba Misterija. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zadar.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Zadar’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Croatia.

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

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Croatia!

Day 9 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Croatia offers another chance for an in-depth travel experience. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Perušić and continue your relaxed road trip adventure in Smiljan and Žabica. You’ll stay in Lika-Senj County for 1 night.

Grabovača leaves a lasting impression. This cave system is one of the most increasingly popular places to visit in Zadar. Next, head to Nikola Tesla Memorial Center, an often recommended museum, known for its symbolic 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 Jasikovac, Park Suma. This scenic park is a highly recommended experience.

Continue your laid-back road trip in Croatia as you make your way to Lika-Senj County. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the town, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Croatia. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Lika-Senj County, explore the town like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Highlanders pub, a top-rated dining spot in Lika-Senj County. If you're in the mood for something new, try Kavana Milinković, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lika-Senj County.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Lika-Senj County.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Caffe Bar Fortuna, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Caffe Bar Amadeus is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Caffe Bar Bevanda is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Croatia!