5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Split traveling north to Lika-Senj County and Zadar
Description
Included
Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Croatia as you embark on an unforgettable 5-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Split, Lika-Senj County, Korenica, Zadar, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, and Grad Benkovac.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Croatia takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Split, 1 night in Lika-Senj County, and 1 night in Zadar. 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 got you covered.
Upon arriving in Split, 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. Plitvice Lakes National Park and Diocletian's Palace are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Split, Lika-Senj County, Korenica, Zadar, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, and Grad Benkovac, 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, accommodation, 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!
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1 – Split - arrival day
- Split - Arrival day
- More
Your road trip adventure in Croatia begins as soon as you reach Split and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Split for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Split 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 West Bank or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Split. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Split. 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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Nevera Tavern, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Perivoj restoran i kavana offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Konoba Laganini. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Split.
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.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Croatia!
Day 2 – Split and Lika-Senj County
- Split
- Lika-Senj
- More
Drive 240 km, 3 hours 4 min
- Diocletian's Cellars
- Golden Gate
- Forest Park Marjan
- Kašjuni Beach
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Split. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lika-Senj County, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Split. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Diocletian's Cellars is the perfect place to start. This archeological site is one of the most often recommended places to visit in Split. Next, head to Diocletian's Palace, a top-rated palace, known for its enchanting 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 Golden Gate. This symbolic historical landmark offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Marjan adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to Kašjuni Beach, a serene beach in Split.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Lika-Senj County. Lika-Senj County offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Lika-Senj County. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Highlanders pub, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Kavana Milinković? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick 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.
Say good night to Lika-Senj County and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 3 – Lika-Senj County, Korenica, and Zadar
- Lika-Senj
- Korenica
- Zadar
- More
Drive 211 km, 3 hours 43 min
- Plitvice Lakes National Park
- People's Square
- Church of St. Donatus
- Sea organ
- More
Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Korenica and Zadar, 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 Zadar. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Korenica, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Lika-Senj County to Korenica may take around 1 hour 13 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Korenica, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Head to Plitvice Lakes National Park, a wondrous national park in Korenica. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Korenica and set your GPS to Zadar. 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 2 hours 12 min. Upon reaching Zadar, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Spend your afternoon discovering Narodni Trg, an intriguing public square known for its romantic features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Church Of St. Donatus, a worthwhile church that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Sea Organ and uncover the details of this romantic art installation.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Zadar's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Pizzeria Šime, a top-rated dining spot in Zadar. If you're in the mood for something new, try Harvatski restorant "Galiya", another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zadar.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Yachting Bar & Club, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Caffe Bar Porthos offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Zadar. The Factory Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!
Day 4 – Zadar, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Parići, Grad Benkovac, and Split
- Zadar
- Maslenica
- Split
- More
Drive 267 km, 4 hours 3 min
- Pag Bridge
- Maslenica Bridge
- Paklenica National Park
- Sea organ
- More
On day 4 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 Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Parići, and Grad Benkovac. In the evening, you’ll end up in Split, where you will stay for 1 night.
After soaking in Zadar’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Općina Ražanac. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 31 min. When you arrive in Općina Ražanac, it's time to take a break from the road.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Paški Most.
When you’ve had your share of Općina Jasenice, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Parići. Your travel time is around 17 min.
Your self-guided tour starts at Paklenica National Park, a frequently visited national park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Split. 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 Split. 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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Babylon, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? DeListes restaurant Split offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bokeria Kitchen & Wine. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Split.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Caffe Bar Mythos, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Caffe Bar Legis offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Caffe Bar Tik. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Croatia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5 – Split - departure day
- Split - Departure day
- More
- Split viewpoint (belvedere)
- More
Day 5 of your road trip in Croatia is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Split before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Split is home to plenty of attractions that offer a romantic, a mesmerizing, and a picture-perfect! Start at Split Viewpoint (belvedere), a beloved observation deck that is worthwhile a visit in the city.
Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Split.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Villa Spiza, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Kadena offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Split. 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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Croatia
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.