5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar traveling east to Šibenik

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Photo of Zadar archipelago. Kali on Ugljan island turquoise sea and walkway view, Croatia.
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through Croatia. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Croatia takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Zadar and 1 night in Šibenik. 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. Sea Organ and Krka National Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Skradinski Buk, 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, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Grad Benkovac, Šibenik, Primošten, and Grad Skradin, 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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Pick-up: 10:00
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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 2 nights 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Pizzeria Šime, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Harvatski restorant "Galiya" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restoran Zadar - Jadera. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zadar.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Yachting Bar & Club is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Caffe Bar Porthos, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is The Factory Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Zadar
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Drive 4 km, 30 min

  • Sea organ
  • Roman Forum
  • Church of St. Donatus
  • People's Square
  • Market Zadar
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On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Zadar. You’ll stay in Zadar for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Sea Organ. This top-rated art installation is a culturally significant place to see in Zadar. Continue your discovery at Roman Forum, a culturally significant archeological site 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 Church Of St. Donatus. This locally appreciated church offers a photogenic encounter with Zadar. Next, make your way to Narodni Trg to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Market Zadar, a frequently visited market 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 activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Croatia is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Pirate Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Caffe Bar Bizarre for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Backstage Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Croatia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Zadar
  • Šibenik
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Drive 202 km, 3 hours 30 min

  • Pag Bridge
  • Maslenica Bridge
  • Pariževačka glavica
  • Paklenica National Park
  • Vidikovac, Kamenjak
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 5 vibrant destinations - Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Rupine, Parići, and Grad Benkovac. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Šibenik. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Zadar today. One of the most curiosity-inducing attractions included on the itinerary is Paški Most.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the intriguing Pariževačka Glavica. After exploring the cliff, head to Paklenica National Park. This underrated national park is a highlight in Zadar. As your day continues, stop by Vidikovac, Kamenjak, known for its mesmerizing features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Šibenik, 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 in Šibenik. 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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Šibenik by securing a reservation at Pelegrini. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, Fry Guy boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Caffe Palma is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Mystic, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Azimut. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Šibenik
  • Zadar
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Drive 199 km, 3 hours 51 min

  • Beach Mala Raduča
  • Statue of Our Lady Of Loreto
  • Skradinski buk
  • Krka National Park
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Primošten and Grad Skradin, 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.

Today’s itinerary in Šibenik covers several incredible sights, including a beach, a monument, a waterfall, a national park and much more! Start your adventure at Beach Mala Raduča. This worthwhile beach is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the enchanting wonders of Statue Of Our Lady Of Loreto, a must-see monument in the village.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Skradinski Buk. This underrated waterfall offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Krka National Park, where you can take in serene features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Zadar. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Roko, 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 Harbor CookHouse & Club, 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 Urnebes. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zadar tonight.

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.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in 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, we recommend visiting Queen Jelena Madijevka Park, a romantic park before you head out.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Discover boutiques offering an array of 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.

If you're eager to try something different, consider Konoba Rafaelo, another top spot with a tantalizing 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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