6-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar traveling east to Split
Description
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Description
Explore the best of Croatia on a 6-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Zadar, Korenica, Plitvica Selo, Split, Trogir, and Šibenik. This road trip itinerary in Croatia seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Croatia takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 4 nights in Zadar 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 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. 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 Church Of St. Donatus, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Šibenik Cathedral.
As you hit the open road and drive through Zadar, Korenica, Plitvica Selo, Split, Trogir, and Šibenik, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Zadar - Arrival day
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- The Five Wells Square
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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 3 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 The Five Wells Square, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Zadar. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars 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 Zadar, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Pizzeria Šime, 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 Harvatski restorant "Galiya", 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 Zadar - Jadera. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zadar tonight.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Yachting Bar & Club, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Porthos offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The Factory Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Croatia!
Day 2
- Zadar
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Drive 4 km, 31 min
- The Greeting to the Sun
- Sea organ
- Roman Forum
- Church of St. Donatus
- National Museum Zadar
- Market Zadar
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Day 2 of your road trip across Croatia promises a magnificent time exploring Zadar. You have 2 nights left in Zadar. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Zadar is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at Monument To The Sun, a frequently visited art installation that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Sea Organ, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Roman Forum. This archeological site is one of the city’s most locally appreciated spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Zadar at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Church Of St. Donatus. After exploring the church, head to the beloved National Museum Zadar. Lastly, wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Market Zadar, a place of picture-perfect interest 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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Zadar's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Pet Bunara Dine & Wine offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurant 2Ribara is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Zadar.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Pirate Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Bizarre offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Backstage Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Croatia.
Day 3
- Zadar
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Drive 318 km, 4 hours 26 min
- Plitvice Lakes National Park
- Great Waterfall
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Greet day 3 of your road trip in Croatia with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Zadar for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Korenica and Plitvica Selo.
Zadar is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a national park and a waterfall. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the globally renowned Plitvice Lakes National Park and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Great Waterfall, an instagrammable waterfall that draws visitors from far and near.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Zadar.
As you explore more of Zadar, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Make sure to reserve a table at Roko, 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 Harbor CookHouse & Club, 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 Restoran Urnebes, 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 enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Garden Lounge, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Down Town offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Beach Bar Bamboo provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Head back to your accommodation in Zadar and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 4
- Zadar
- Split
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Drive 158 km, 1 hour 56 min
- Golden Gate
- Diocletian's Palace
- Diocletian's Cellars
- Radić Brothers Square (Fruit Square)
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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 Split. In the evening, you’ll end up in Split, where you will stay for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites in Zadar. Begin your sightseeing with Golden Gate. This often recommended historical landmark is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Diocletian's Palace, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Zadar, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Diocletian's Cellars. This frequently visited archeological site is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Voćni Trg In Split, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Split's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Nevera Tavern, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Perivoj restoran i kavana is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Konoba Laganini. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Split tonight.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, La Linea offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Fabrique Pub, another top-rated bar in the area.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Croatia!
Day 5
- Split
- Zadar
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Drive 173 km, 3 hours 19 min
- Trogir Old Town
- Puerta de la Tierra
- Kamerlengo Castle
- St. Jacob’s Cathedral
- St. Nicholas Fortress
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Trogir and Šibenik. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zadar, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Split, including a historical landmark, a castle, and a church. Start your day at Trogir Old Town. This enchanting historical landmark is a frequently visited place to see in Split. Then, wander over to Sjeverna Vog. If culturally significant sites excite you, this historical landmark will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Kamerlengo Castle. This history-steeped castle is a favorite among visitors.
Split offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Šibenik Cathedral is an increasingly popular spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the church, don’t forget to check out the visually striking St. Nicholas Fortress. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this curiosity-inducing castle.
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.
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 GRICKO, 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 Konoba Rafaelo, 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 Konoba Misterija, a hidden gem nestled in Zadar. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Caffe Bar Kult, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Teatro Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Sphinx. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!
Day 6
- Zadar - Departure day
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- Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
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Day 6 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 Church Of The Sacred Heart Of Jesus, a respected church before you head out.
As your final day in Croatia unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Zadar's best shopping area, City Galleria. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Croatia. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home.
Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Zadar.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Buffet Kod Stipe, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Konoba Berekin? It's another excellent option with a diverse 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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