6-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zagreb to Split and Zadar

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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.
6-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zagreb to Split and Zadar
6-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zagreb to Split and Zadar
6-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zagreb to Split and Zadar
6-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zagreb to Split and Zadar
6-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zagreb to Split and Zadar
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Experience the freedom of the open road on an unforgettable 6-day road trip in Croatia! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Zagreb, Plitvica Selo, Split, Trogir, Šibenik, Zadar, Karlovac County, and Rastoke.

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, 2 nights in Split, and 1 night in Zadar. 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. Diocletian's Palace and Sea Organ are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Zagreb, Plitvica Selo, Split, Trogir, Šibenik, Zadar, Karlovac County, and Rastoke, 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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  • Lower Town (Donji Grad)
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Your road trip adventure in Croatia begins as soon as you reach Zagreb and pick up your car. You’ll stay here for 1 night and explore what to see in Zagreb, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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.

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Croatia!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Zagreb
  • Plitvica Selo
  • Split
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Drive 406 km, 5 hours 22 min

  • Great Waterfall
  • Golden Gate
  • Diocletian's Palace
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Your itinerary for day 2 of your road trip in Croatia includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Plitvica Selo and Split. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Split, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Plitvica Selo’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Zagreb behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 8 min. Plitvica Selo welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Great Waterfall, an increasingly popular waterfall that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Split. This car ride takes around 3 hours 6 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Golden Gate, a locally appreciated historical landmark known for its photogenic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Diocletian's Palace, a spectacular palace.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Split. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Split's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Make sure to reserve a table at Nevera Tavern, an iconic dining spot in Split. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Perivoj restoran i kavana, a popular restaurant in Split. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Konoba Laganini, a hidden gem nestled in Split. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

Say good night to Split and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!

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Day3

Day 3

  • Split
  • Trogir
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Drive 67 km, 1 hour 53 min

  • Forest Park Marjan
  • Trogir Old Town
  • Riva
  • Kamerlengo Castle
  • Bacvice
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On day 3 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Split and Trogir. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Split, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Bacvice, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Split. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

To truly experience Split, make sure to drop by Marjan. This well-known park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Trogir.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Trogir Old Town. Spend some time admiring the UNESCO world heritage-listed features of the historical landmark before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Trogir Promenade. This increasingly popular boardwalk is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Kamerlengo Castle. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the castle.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Split and your accommodation.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Split. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Babylon, a highly-rated dining destination in Split. If you're eager to try something different, consider DeListes restaurant Split, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bokeria Kitchen & Wine. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Split this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Caffe Bar Mythos, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Caffe Bar Legis provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Caffe Bar Tik offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

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Day4

Day 4

  • Split
  • Šibenik
  • Zadar
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Drive 217 km, 3 hours 14 min

  • St. Jacob’s Cathedral
  • Šibenik City Museum
  • Krka National Park
  • Sea organ
  • The Greeting to the Sun
  • 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 places, which are Šibenik and Zadar. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zadar, where will spend 1 night.

After soaking in Split’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Šibenik. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 9 min. When you arrive in Šibenik, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Šibenik Cathedral. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the church before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Šibenik City Museum. This worthwhile museum is a traveler-favorite in the city.

Our first attraction recommendation in Šibenik is Krka National Park, a famous national park that draws attention for its romantic features.

When you arrive in Zadar, it's time to take a break from the road.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Sea Organ and explore the culturally significant features. Next, make your way to Monument To The Sun, another highlight in Zadar.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Zadar. Zadar 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 Zadar. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Pizzeria Šime, a top-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Harvatski restorant "Galiya", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Yachting Bar & Club, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Caffe Bar Porthos is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The Factory Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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Day5

Day 5

  • Zadar
  • Karlovac
  • Rastoke
  • Zagreb
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Drive 413 km, 5 hours 22 min

  • Archaeological Museum Zadar
  • Church of St. Donatus
  • Aquatika
  • Stari Mlin (Old Mill)
  • More

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Zadar, Karlovac County, and Rastoke. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Zagreb, where you'll spend 1 night.

Enjoy all that Archaeological Museum Zadar has to offer. This is a worthwhile museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Church Of St. Donatus, a frequently visited church in Zadar.

Karlovac County’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Zadar behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 35 min. Karlovac County welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Aquatika, an often recommended aquarium in Karlovac County. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Rastoke. This car ride takes around 52 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Stari Mlin (old Mill). Spend some time admiring the respected features of the historical landmark before you continue to your next stop.

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

Zagreb 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 Zagreb.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restoran Taurus, 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 Trilogija - Vino & Kuhinja, 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 Pizzeria Park. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zagreb tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Krolo. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Kavana Corso, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Valhalla Beer Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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Day6

Day 6

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

For a shopping spree in Zagreb, we recommend the lively Centar Cvjetni. Here, you'll find a range of shops you can browse for some souvenir shopping. 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Roots - juice & cocktail bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Štruk is another top choice with a popular 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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