7-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Split traveling north to Zadar and Lika-Senj County

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 7-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 3 nights in Split, 2 nights in Zadar, and 1 night in Lika-Senj County. 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 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. 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 Split, Grad Benkovac, Općina Jasenice, Općina Ražanac, Nin, Zadar, Lika-Senj County, Bogatić, and Grad Skradin, 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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Day1

Day 1

  • Split - Arrival day
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  • Marmontova Street
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Welcome to Split, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Croatia! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights discovering what to see in Split before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Split 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.

Find your way to your hotel in Split. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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.

Savor the flavors at Nevera Tavern, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Perivoj restoran i kavana beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Konoba Laganini. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Split tonight.

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

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Day2

Day 2

  • Split
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Drive 16 km, 1 hour

  • Kašjuni Beach
  • Forest Park Marjan
  • Golden Gate
  • Diocletian's Palace
  • Bacvice
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Split has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Split.

A top thing to do today is to explore Bacvice, a must-see neighborhood in Split. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

To truly experience Split, make sure to drop by Kašjuni Beach. This beloved beach is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Marjan, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Golden Gate, one of the most often recommended places to see in Split. This historical landmark is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Diocletian's Palace. Wander around and soak in the enchanting atmosphere this palace offers.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Croatia. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Split by securing a reservation at Šug. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of regional cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, DeListes restaurant Split boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

Continue your lively evening at Caffe Bar Mythos, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Caffe Bar Legis is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Caffe Bar Tik ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

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Day3

Day 3

  • Split
  • Grad Benkovac
  • Maslenica
  • Ražanac
  • Zadar
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Drive 248 km, 3 hours 27 min

  • Vidikovac, Kamenjak
  • Maslenica Bridge
  • Pag Bridge
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you'll explore 4 destinations, including Grad Benkovac, Općina Jasenice, Općina Ražanac, and Nin. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Zadar, where you'll spend 2 nights.

After soaking in Grad Benkovac’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Općina Jasenice. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 43 min. When you arrive in Općina Jasenice, it's time to take a break from the road.

Savor the day by heading to Vidikovac, Kamenjak, a beloved observation deck that draws visitors from near and far.

After soaking in Grad Benkovac’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Općina Jasenice. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 43 min. When you arrive in Općina Jasenice, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Maslenica Bridge, a frequently visited deck arch bridge in Općina Jasenice.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Općina Jasenice and set your GPS to Općina Ražanac. 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 25 min. Upon reaching Općina Ražanac, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Paški Most, an intriguing road bridge in Općina Ražanac.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Pizzeria Šime, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Harvatski restorant "Galiya"? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restoran Zadar - Jadera as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Zadar.

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

Head back to your accommodation in Zadar and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia.

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Day4

Day 4

  • Zadar
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Drive 4 km, 32 min

  • The Greeting to the Sun
  • Sea organ
  • Roman Forum
  • Church of St. Donatus
  • Cathedral of St. Anastasia
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On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Zadar. You’ll stay in Zadar for 1 night.

Start your day at Monument To The Sun. This romantic art installation is a beloved place to see in Zadar. Then, wander over to Sea Organ. If romantic sites excite you, this art installation will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Roman Forum. This picture-perfect archeological site is a favorite among visitors.

Zadar offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Church Of St. Donatus is a curiosity-inducing spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the church, don’t forget to check out the symbolic Zadar Cathedral. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this worthwhile church.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Croatia. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, 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 Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, 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 Restaurant 2Ribara, 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 your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Pirate Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Caffe Bar Bizarre is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Backstage Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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Day5

Day 5

  • Zadar
  • Lika-Senj
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Drive 114 km, 1 hour 47 min

  • Market Zadar
  • People's Square
  • Queen Jelena Madijevka Park
  • The Five Wells Square
  • Kolovare Beach
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Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Croatia includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Zadar. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lika-Senj County, where you'll spend 1 night.

Market Zadar brings Zadar's character to life. This picture-perfect market is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Narodni Trg, another history-steeped attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Queen Jelena Madijevka Park, one of the city’s most often recommended attractions, known for its mesmerizing features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of The Five Wells Square. This enchanting public square is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Kolovare Beach, an increasingly popular beach, and take a stroll around the area.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Lika-Senj County. Lika-Senj County offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at The Highlanders pub, a popular restaurant in Lika-Senj County. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Lika-Senj County at Kavana Milinković, 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 Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Lika-Senj County tonight.

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

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Croatia.

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Day6

Day 6

  • Lika-Senj
  • Bogatić
  • Skradin
  • Split
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Drive 279 km, 4 hours 6 min

  • Roski waterfall
  • Krka National Park
  • Skradinski buk
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On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Bogatić and Grad Skradin. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Split, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bogatić. This car ride takes around 1 hour 38 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Bogatić is Roski Waterfall, a frequently visited waterfall that draws attention for its serene features.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Krka National Park, a spectacular national park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Grad Skradin.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Skradinski Buk, an increasingly popular waterfall that everyone visiting Grad Skradin should see.

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.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Villa Spiza, a top-rated dining destination in Split. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Kadena, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Konoba Kod Joze. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Split this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Ave Caffe Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Tennis Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Jadran Beach Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day7

Day 7

  • Split - Departure day
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  • West Bank
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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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at West Bank. This worthwhile boardwalk is a hotspot among locals.

Take some time to indulge in shopping at Split’s popular marketplace, Pazar Market. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

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

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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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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