5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar to Split and Lika-Senj County and surrounding area

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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 Zadar, Split, Lika-Senj County, Smiljan, and Senj.

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 Zadar, 1 night in Split, and 1 night in Lika-Senj County. 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 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. Marvel at the remarkable Marjan, learn more about the unique Church Of St. Donatus, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Market Zadar.

As you hit the open road and drive through Zadar, Split, Lika-Senj County, Smiljan, and Senj, 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!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Kolovare Beach
Market ZadarPeople's SquareChurch of St. DonatusRoman ForumSea organ
Golden GateDiocletian's PalaceWest BankKašjuni BeachForest Park Marjan
Nikola Tesla Memorial CenterNehaj FortressSundial on the 45th parallelPlaža Prva Draga
Queen Jelena Madijevka Park

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Zadar - Arrival day
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  • Kolovare Beach
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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 in Zadar 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.

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 Kolovare Beach, or just 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 Zadar. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Zadar, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Pizzeria Šime, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Harvatski restorant "Galiya" offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restoran Zadar - Jadera is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Zadar.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Yachting Bar & Club, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Caffe Bar Porthos offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The Factory Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Croatia!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Zadar
  • Split
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Drive 160 km, 2 hours 15 min

  • Market Zadar
  • People's Square
  • Church of St. Donatus
  • Roman Forum
  • Sea organ
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On day 2 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 Zadar. In the evening, you’ll end up in Split, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start by visiting Market Zadar, a prime spot to begin your journey. This picture-perfect market is sure to impress. Next on your list is Narodni Trg, another must-visit landmark and up-and-coming public square renowned for its enchanting features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Zadar by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Church Of St. Donatus. This photogenic church is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Zadar experience. We also recommend visiting Roman Forum, an increasingly popular archeological site. Nearby, you'll also find Sea Organ, ready to add charm 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 Split. Split offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Nevera Tavern, a top-rated dining destination in Split. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Perivoj restoran i kavana, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Konoba Laganini. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Split this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, La Linea provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Fabrique Pub offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Split
  • Lika-Senj
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Drive 235 km, 3 hours 7 min

  • Golden Gate
  • Diocletian's Palace
  • West Bank
  • Kašjuni Beach
  • Forest Park Marjan
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 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.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Split, featuring fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Start at Golden Gate, an up-and-coming historical landmark in the city. Then, head to Diocletian's Palace and soak in the ambiance of this majestic palace.

There are many interesting places to see in Split, and when you are ready for more, go to West Bank. This is one of the city’s most often recommended visually striking spots of interest. After exploring the boardwalk, visit the curiosity-inducing Kašjuni Beach. Not far away, you'll also find Marjan. This park is a romantic highlight in Split.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lika-Senj County. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Lika-Senj County's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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.

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

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Lika-Senj
  • Zadar
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Drive 288 km, 3 hours 35 min

  • Nikola Tesla Memorial Center
  • Nehaj Fortress
  • Sundial on the 45th parallel
  • Plaža Prva Draga
  • More

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 - Smiljan and Senj. 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.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Lika-Senj County, including a museum, a castle, a monument, a beach and much more! Start your adventure at Nikola Tesla Memorial Center. This increasingly popular museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Nehaj Fortress located in Lika-Senj County for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Sundial On The 45th Parallel. Its detailed features will captivate you. After the monument, continue your tour of the village with a visit to Plaža Prva Draga. Visitors usually appreciate the serene features of this beach.

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 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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, an iconic dining spot in Zadar. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, a popular restaurant in Zadar. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurant 2Ribara, a hidden gem nestled in Zadar. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Zadar - Departure day
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  • Queen Jelena Madijevka Park
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Day 5 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 Queen Jelena Madijevka Park. This worthwhile park is a popular place to see in the city.

Make the most of your final day in Croatia by visiting Zadar’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing City Galleria. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Croatia. You can also browse through boutiques for stylish fashion choices.

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

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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