Relaxed 7-Day Croatia Road Trip Starting from Split to Zadar

Your relaxed road trip through Croatia starts when you reach the incredible city of Split, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Split and begin your adventure in Croatia.

Take the opportunity to see Split breakwater lighthouse. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 513 visitors.

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.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Split.

Don’t miss out on dining at Nevera Tavern, a top-rated dining destination in Split. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Perivoj restoran i kavana, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bokeria Kitchen & Wine. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Split this evening.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Fabrique Pub offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Caffe bar Mythos. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Croatia. Enjoy your first taste of Split as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia, you’ll go deep into Split, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Split, and meet locals along the way!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Kava Beach. This much-appreciated sightseeing destination is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,224 reviews.

Next up is Froggyland. This museum has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 1,077 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Golden Gate. This memorial gates and arches has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,820 reviews.

Diocletian's Palace is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 76,537 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Diocletian's Cellars. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 904 reviews.

Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular activities to choose from in Croatia.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Croatia. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Split, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Villa Spiza, a highly-rated dining destination in Split. If you're eager to try something different, consider Downtown Grill Split steak & seafood, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at PORTOFINO Steak - Pasta - Seafood. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Split this evening.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Tennis Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Jadran Beach Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Leopolds Craft Beer Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Split!

Day 3 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Croatia gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Split. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Zadar, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 3 nights.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Split viewpoint (belvedere). This extraordinary point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 537 visitors.

Next, make your way to West Bank. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,338 reviews.

While in Split, we also recommend a visit to Mestrovic Gallery. This art gallery has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,156 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Marjan. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,490 travelers, this mountain is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Split.

Make your way to Kašjuni Beach, perhaps the most famous beach in Split. This attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,800 reviews.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Zadar. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Zadar has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Pizzeria Šime, a top-rated dining spot in Zadar. If you're in the mood for something new, try Хърватски ресторант "Галия", another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zadar.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Keep the evening going at Yachting Bar & Club, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Caffe bar Porthos, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Factory Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Croatia!

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through Croatia means 24 hours of making the best memories in Zadar. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Zadar!

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Market Zadar. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,657 reviews.

Narodni trg is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,636 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Church of St. Donatus. This church building is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,708 reviews.

Roman Forum is another outstanding experience in Zadar. Around 4,709 travelers have rated this point of interest an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Sea organ is not far away. This tide organ is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 57,178 reviews.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 4 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Croatia. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Zadar itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Zadar, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Don’t miss out on dining at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant 2Ribara. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Zadar. The bars in Zadar make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Pirate Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to BackStage Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Garden Lounge also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in the city of Zadar and visit amazing attractions in Croatia that travel enthusiasts from around the world often include in their itineraries. Today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in Croatia.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Nin. This car ride takes around 21 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Solana Nin Salt Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,343 reviews.

After soaking in Zadar’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Nin. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 21 min. When you arrive in Nin, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Paški most. This extraordinary road bridge is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,392 visitors.

Set your GPS to Rupine and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 8 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Rupine beckons with new experiences!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Maslenica Bridge, a remarkable deck arch bridge where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 3,555 reviews.

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

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Harbor CookHouse & Club, a highly-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restoran Urnebes, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Konoba Rafaelo. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Zadar.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Beach Bar Bamboo. Alternatively, go to Caffe Bar Kult, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Teatro Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Croatia!

Day 6 of your self-drive tour in Croatia is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the town of Nin and end it in the city of Split. You’ll stay in Split for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Croatia.

When you’ve had your share of Zadar, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Nin. Your travel time is around 21 min.

Make Knez Branimir one of your first sightseeing stops in Nin. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,045 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Nin and set your GPS to Grad Biograd na Moru. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 52 min. Upon reaching Grad Biograd na Moru, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make Town of Biograd your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,632 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Plaža Dražica. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,952 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this point of interest every year.

Plaža Soline is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,548 visitors.

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

Kick off the day at Vidikovac, Kamenjak, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 3,656 reviews.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Split. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Croatia by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Croatia, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Split.

Dine in style at Art Gallery Cafe Music Bar Split, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Duje boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Beach Bar History. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Split.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Split. The bars in Split make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Moon Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Paradiso cocktail bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. CLO Bar Split is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in Croatia is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Split.

As you approach the end of your journey in Croatia, take a moment for some retail therapy in Split’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Croatia, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Croatia with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Split is the remarkable Diocletian Aqueduct. This point of interest and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 480 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Split or just grab something light to keep you going.

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Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Split and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in Croatia is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.