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

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Photo of Croatian National Theater, Zagreb, Croatia.
Photo of entrance to Mirogoj cemetery with Church of King Christ in Zagreb, Croatia.
5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zagreb to Plitvička Jezera and Split
5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zagreb to Plitvička Jezera and Split
5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zagreb to Plitvička Jezera and Split
5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zagreb to Plitvička Jezera and Split
5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zagreb to Plitvička Jezera and Split
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through Croatia. Explore diverse landscapes, discover lively cities, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Croatia. 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 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.

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, 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
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Day1

Day 1

  • Zagreb - Arrival day
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  • Upper Town (Gornji Grad)
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Welcome to Zagreb, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Croatia! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night discovering what to see in Zagreb before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Zagreb is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. 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 Zagreb. 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 Zagreb, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at Zinfandel's Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Esplanade Zagreb Hotel boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Rougemarin City. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zagreb.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Tesla New Generation, known for its lively atmosphere. Caffe Bar Destino is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Booze And Blues offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

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Day2

Day 2

  • Zagreb
  • Korenica
  • Plitvička Jezera
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Drive 159 km, 2 hours 55 min

  • Stone Gate
  • St. Mark's Church
  • Plitvice Lakes National Park
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On day 2 of your road trip in Croatia, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Zagreb and Korenica are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plitvička Jezera, where you will stay for 1 night.

Stone Gate is must-visit historical landmark and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to St. Mark's Church, a locally appreciated church, located just a leisurely stroll away.

Set your GPS to Korenica and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 15 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Korenica beckons with new experiences!

Our first attraction recommendation in Korenica is Plitvice Lakes National Park, a timeless national park that draws attention for its mesmerizing features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Plitvička Jezera. Plitvička Jezera 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 Plitvička Jezera. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

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

  • Plitvička Jezera
  • Zadar
  • Split
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Drive 312 km, 4 hours 16 min

  • Sea organ
  • The Greeting to the Sun
  • Roman Forum
  • Church of St. Donatus
  • Forest Park Marjan
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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 Zadar and Split. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Split, where you'll spend 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Zadar, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Plitvička Jezera to Zadar may take around 1 hour 53 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Zadar, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Sea Organ, an astonishing art installation that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Monument To The Sun and admire its enchanting features.

When you’re ready, continue to Roman Forum, a frequently visited archeological site beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Church Of St. Donatus, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Split, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Zadar to Split may take around 1 hour 51 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Split, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Marjan, a well-known park in Split. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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.

Split is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Split.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Nevera Tavern, a highly-rated dining destination in Split. If you're eager to try something different, consider Perivoj restoran i kavana, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Konoba Laganini. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Split this evening.

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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

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Day4

Day 4

  • Split
  • Trogir
  • Zagreb
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Drive 413 km, 4 hours 37 min

  • Golden Gate
  • Diocletian's Palace
  • Diocletian's Cellars
  • Trogir Old Town
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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 places, which are Split and Trogir. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zagreb, where will spend 1 night.

Golden Gate brings Split's character to life. This symbolic historical landmark is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Diocletian's Palace, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Diocletian's Cellars, one of the city’s most intriguing attractions, known for its instagrammable features.

After soaking in Split’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Trogir. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 38 min. When you arrive in Trogir, it's time to take a break from the road.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Trogir Old Town, a beloved historical landmark that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Zagreb. Check in and relax 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 Zagreb. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restoran Taurus, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Trilogija - Vino & Kuhinja offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Pizzeria Park. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zagreb.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Krolo, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Kavana Corso. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Valhalla Beer Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

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

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Day5

Day 5

  • Zagreb - Departure day
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  • Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
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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 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 notable monument is a hotspot among locals.

For a last-minute shopping spree in Zagreb, Arena Centar is nearby. Enjoy a variety of retail stores, dining options, and essential services in one convenient location. When you need a break, visit a cafe and relax with a cup of coffee or tea.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Roots - juice & cocktail bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try La Štruk? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

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!

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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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