5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zagreb to Plitvička Jezera and Split

Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Select dates
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
All inclusive app
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

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 Zagreb, Korenica, Plitvička Jezera, Zadar, Split, and Trogir.

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 Zagreb, 1 night in Plitvička Jezera, 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 got you covered.

Upon arriving in Zagreb, 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. Marvel at the remarkable Sea Organ, learn more about the unique Ban Josip Jelačić Statue, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Marjan.

As you hit the open road and drive through Zagreb, Korenica, Plitvička Jezera, Zadar, Split, 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, 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!

Read more

Travel details

Set your travel details to find the best price

Flights

Round trip
Round trip
Travel dates

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Compare and choose from the best flights to Zagreb

Car

Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options

Driver’s age is 30 - 65
I live in

Itinerary summary

See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize

Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Upper Town (Gornji Grad)
Stone GateSt. Mark's ChurchPlitvice Lakes National Park
Sea organThe Greeting to the SunRoman ForumChurch of St. DonatusForest Park Marjan
Golden GateDiocletian's PalaceDiocletian's CellarsTrogir Old Town
Ban Josip Jelačić Statue

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day 1

Day 1

  • Zagreb - Arrival day
  • More
  • Upper Town (Gornji Grad)
  • More

Say hello to Zagreb! Your exciting road trip through Croatia is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Zagreb for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Zagreb 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 Upper Town (Gornji Grad), a must-see neighborhood, and 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 Zagreb. 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 Zagreb, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Zinfandel's Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Zagreb. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zagreb at Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, 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 Rougemarin City. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zagreb tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Tesla New Generation, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Caffe Bar Destino, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Booze And Blues likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Read more
Day 2

Day 2

  • Zagreb
  • Plitvička Jezera
  • More

Drive 159 km, 2 hours 55 min

  • Stone Gate
  • St. Mark's Church
  • Plitvice Lakes National Park
  • More

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 Zagreb and Korenica. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plitvička Jezera, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Zagreb, including a historical landmark, a church, and a national park. Start your day at Stone Gate. This picture-perfect historical landmark is an underrated place to see in Zagreb. Then, wander over to St. Mark's Church. If stunning sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Plitvice Lakes National Park. This romantic national park is a favorite among visitors.

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

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

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!

Read more
Day 3

Day 3

  • Plitvička Jezera
  • Split
  • More

Drive 312 km, 4 hours 16 min

  • Sea organ
  • The Greeting to the Sun
  • Roman Forum
  • Church of St. Donatus
  • Forest Park Marjan
  • More

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Zadar and Split. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Split, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Plitvička Jezera. Begin your sightseeing with Sea Organ. This famous art installation is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Monument To The Sun, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Plitvička Jezera, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Roman Forum. This beloved archeological site is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Church Of St. Donatus, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Marjan is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Split, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

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.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. La Linea is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Fabrique Pub offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Read more
Day 4

Day 4

  • Split
  • Zagreb
  • More

Drive 413 km, 4 hours 37 min

  • Golden Gate
  • Diocletian's Palace
  • Diocletian's Cellars
  • Trogir Old Town
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Split and Trogir. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zagreb, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Split’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Golden Gate. This UNESCO world heritage-designated historical landmark is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the UNESCO world heritage-designated features of Diocletian's Palace, a must-visit palace in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Diocletian's Cellars, a curiosity-inducing archeological site. For a change of scene, check out Trogir Old Town, known for its enchanting features.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Zagreb. Zagreb offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Zagreb. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restoran Taurus, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Trilogija - Vino & Kuhinja offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Pizzeria Park is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Zagreb.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Krolo, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Kavana Corso is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Valhalla Beer Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

Read more
Day 5

Day 5

  • Zagreb - Departure day
  • More
  • Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
  • More

Day 5 of your road trip in Croatia is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Zagreb 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 Ban Josip Jelačić Statue. This captivating monument is a popular place to see in the city.

Maximize your last day in Croatia and go on a shopping spree in Zagreb’s shopping center, the lively Arena Centar. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Croatia. Take one last moment to soak in Croatia, and unwind with tea or coffee at a cozy cafe.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Zagreb. 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!

Read more

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in Croatia

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

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.