4-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar to Split

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Photo of Zadar archipelago. Kali on Ugljan island turquoise sea and walkway view, Croatia.
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Experience the freedom of the open road on an unforgettable 4-day road trip in Croatia! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Zadar, Plitvica Selo, Split, Šibenik, and Trogir.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Croatia. You will spend 2 nights in Zadar and 1 night in Split. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Croatia. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have you covered.

Upon arriving in Zadar, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Croatia on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Croatia. Diocletian's Palace and Sea Organ are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Zadar, Plitvica Selo, Split, Šibenik, and Trogir, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Croatia. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Croatia.

Throughout your road trip in Croatia, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Croatia.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodations, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Croatia fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Croatia today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
Drop-off: 10:00

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Day1

Day 1

  • Zadar - Arrival day
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  • Church of St. Donatus
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Your road trip adventure in Croatia begins as soon as you reach Zadar and pick up your car. You’ll stay here for 1 night and explore what to see in Zadar, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Zadar is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Church Of St. Donatus. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Zadar. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas in the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Zadar, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Pizzeria Šime, a popular restaurant in Zadar. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zadar at Harvatski restorant "Galiya", another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Restoran Zadar - Jadera. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zadar tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Yachting Bar & Club, known for its inviting atmosphere. Caffe Bar Porthos is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Factory Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise a toast to the start of your 4-day road trip in Croatia!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Zadar
  • Plitvica Selo
  • Split
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Drive 431 km, 5 hours 26 min

  • Sea organ
  • The Greeting to the Sun
  • Great Waterfall
  • Diocletian's Palace
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Zadar, Plitvica Selo, and Split. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Split, where will spend 1 night.

Experience Sea Organ, a top-rated art installation in the city. Then, head to Monument To The Sun and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking art installation.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Plitvica Selo, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Zadar to Plitvica Selo may take around 2 hours 8 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Plitvica Selo, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Great Waterfall, an often recommended waterfall that draws visitors from near and far.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Plitvica Selo and set your GPS to Split. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 3 hours 5 min. Upon reaching Split, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the day by heading to Diocletian's Palace, a famous palace that draws visitors from near and far.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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 a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Nevera Tavern, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Perivoj restoran i kavana is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Konoba Laganini. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Split tonight.

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.

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

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Day3

Day 3

  • Split
  • Šibenik
  • Trogir
  • Zadar
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Drive 266 km, 3 hours 45 min

  • St. Jacob’s Cathedral
  • Šibenik City Museum
  • Trogir Old Town
  • St Sebastian
  • Kamerlengo Castle
  • Riva
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Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Croatia includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Šibenik and Trogir. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zadar, where you'll spend 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Split and set your GPS to Šibenik. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 9 min. Upon reaching Šibenik, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Šibenik Cathedral, an up-and-coming church known for its UNESCO world heritage-listed features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Šibenik City Museum, an up-and-coming museum.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Trogir. This drive usually takes around 51 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Trogir Old Town. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the historical landmark before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Chapel Of St. Sebastian. This worthwhile church is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Kamerlengo Castle. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the castle. Next, take your journey to Trogir Promenade, an increasingly popular boardwalk.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Zadar, 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.

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

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

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Day4

Day 4

  • Zadar - Departure day
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  • Market Zadar
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Day 4 of your road trip in Croatia is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Zadar before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Market Zadar. This beloved market is a hotspot among locals.

For a last-minute shopping spree in Zadar, City Galleria is nearby. Enjoy a variety of retail stores, dining options, and essential services in one convenient location. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home.

Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Zadar.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Harbor CookHouse & Club, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Zadar. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Croatia!

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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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