7-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Split to Šibenik and Zadar

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Photo of beautiful Adriatic Beach and Lagoon with Turquoise Water near Split, Croatia.
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Croatia as you embark on an unforgettable 7-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Split, Trogir, Dubrava kod Šibenika, Šibenik, Grad Skradin, Zadar, Korenica, Plitvica Selo, Makarska, Podgora, Veliko Brdo, and Omiš.

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 Split, 1 night in Šibenik, and 2 nights 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 got you covered.

Upon arriving in Split, 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 Marjan, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Biokovo Nature Park - Skywalk.

As you hit the open road and drive through Split, Trogir, Dubrava kod Šibenika, Šibenik, Grad Skradin, Zadar, Korenica, Plitvica Selo, Makarska, Podgora, Veliko Brdo, and Omiš, 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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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Diocletian's Palace
Forest Park MarjanTrogir Old TownSt SebastianRivaKamerlengo CastleBacvice
Rak WinerySt John's FortŠibenik City MuseumSt. Jacob’s CathedralSt Nicholas’ FortressSkradinski buk
Sea organThe Greeting to the SunRoman ForumChurch of St. DonatusPeople's SquareMarket Zadar
Plitvice Lakes National ParkGreat Waterfall
St Peter Forest ParkBiokovo Nature ParkVepric - Shrine of Our Lady of LourdesVelika strand
Marmontova Street

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Split - Arrival day
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  • Diocletian's Palace
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Your road trip adventure in Croatia begins as soon as you reach Split and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Split 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.

Split 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 Diocletian's Palace, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Split. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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 Split, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. La Linea is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Fabrique Pub provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Croatia!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Split
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Drive 67 km, 1 hour 57 min

  • Forest Park Marjan
  • Trogir Old Town
  • St Sebastian
  • Riva
  • Kamerlengo Castle
  • Bacvice
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On day 2 of your road trip in Croatia, you’ll start and end your day in Split, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Split for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Split and Trogir to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Set aside time today to explore Bacvice, a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Split on today’s itinerary. First up is the interesting park, Marjan. Afterward, continue to Trogir Old Town, a historical landmark every traveler should visit.

As you explore Split’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Chapel Of St. Sebastian. This frequently visited church is an essential stop. Following that, head to Trogir Promenade, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Kamerlengo Castle, an up-and-coming castle in the city.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Split.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Split. 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Babylon, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try DeListes restaurant Split? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bokeria Kitchen & Wine as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Split.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Caffe Bar Mythos, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Caffe Bar Legis, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Caffe Bar Tik likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Split
  • Šibenik
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Drive 132 km, 2 hours 52 min

  • Rak Winery
  • St John's Fort
  • Šibenik City Museum
  • St. Jacob’s Cathedral
  • St Nicholas’ Fortress
  • Skradinski buk
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Dubrava kod Šibenika, Šibenik, 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 Šibenik. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Split. Begin your sightseeing with Rak Winery. This up-and-coming winery is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to St. John's Fort, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Split, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Šibenik City Museum. This underrated museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Šibenik Cathedral, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. St. Nicholas’ Fortress is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers. Conclude your day at Skradinski Buk and uncover why it's recognized as one of the village's most curiosity-inducing attractions.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Antin Gušt Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Šibenik. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Šibenik at Fry Guy, 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 Atrium. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Šibenik tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Caffe Palma, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Mystic offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Šibenik. Azimut is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Croatia!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Šibenik
  • Zadar
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Drive 90 km, 1 hour 29 min

  • Sea organ
  • The Greeting to the Sun
  • Roman Forum
  • Church of St. Donatus
  • People's Square
  • Market Zadar
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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 1 vibrant destinations - Zadar. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zadar. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Šibenik, including an art installation, an archeological site, a church, a public square, a market and much more! Start your day with a visit to Sea Organ. This widely recognized art installation is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Monument To The Sun, which may be one of the most stunning places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Šibenik on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Roman Forum, a locally appreciated archeological site in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Church Of St. Donatus and Narodni Trg. End your day with a visit to Market Zadar, an increasingly popular market that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Zadar's best restaurants.

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Yachting Bar & Club, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Caffe Bar Porthos, a bar catering to every mood and preference. The Factory Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Zadar
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Drive 318 km, 4 hours 26 min

  • Plitvice Lakes National Park
  • Great Waterfall
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Greet day 5 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.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Zadar, including a national park and a waterfall. Start your adventure at Plitvice Lakes National Park. This iconic national park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Great Waterfall located in Zadar for another exciting encounter.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Pet Bunara Dine & Wine is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant 2Ribara. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Zadar tonight.

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

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Zadar
  • Split
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Drive 322 km, 5 hours 22 min

  • St Peter Forest Park
  • Biokovo Nature Park
  • Vepric - Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes
  • Velika strand
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On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Makarska, Podgora, Veliko Brdo, and Omiš. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Split, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the locally appreciated St. Peter Forest Park, a romantic park in Zadar. Next, go to Biokovo Nature Park - Skywalk.

After visiting St. Peter Forest Park and Biokovo Nature Park - Skywalk, have a stroll along Zadar's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Vepric - Shrine Of Our Lady Of Lourdes. This breathtaking church offers a unique experience. Velika is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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.

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Dine in style at Villa Spiza, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Kadena boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Konoba Kod Joze. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Split.

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

Head back to your accommodation in Split and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Split - Departure day
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  • Marmontova Street
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Day 7 of your road trip in Croatia is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Split before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Marmontova Street, a street 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.

As your final day in Croatia unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Split's best shopping area, Marmontova Street. 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 Split.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Downtown Grill Split steak & seafood, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Split. 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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