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

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Photo of Zadar archipelago. Kali on Ugljan island turquoise sea and walkway view, Croatia.
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Explore the best of Croatia on a remarkable 7-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Zadar, Plitvica Selo, Šibenik, Trogir, Split, Veliko Brdo, Makarska, and Primošten.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Croatia. You will spend 4 nights in Zadar and 2 nights 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 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. 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 Zadar, Plitvica Selo, Šibenik, Trogir, Split, Veliko Brdo, Makarska, and Primošten, 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

  • Zadar - Arrival day
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  • People's Square
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Welcome to Zadar, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Croatia! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 3 nights discovering what to see in Zadar before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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 Narodni Trg. 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 Zadar. 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 Zadar, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zadar.

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

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

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Day2

Day 2

  • Zadar
  • Plitvica Selo
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Drive 317 km, 4 hours 26 min

  • The Greeting to the Sun
  • Sea organ
  • Roman Forum
  • Church of St. Donatus
  • Cathedral of St. Anastasia
  • Great Waterfall
  • More

Wake up to day 2 of your road trip in Croatia. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Zadar and Plitvica Selo. With 2 nights to stay in Zadar, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Monument To The Sun leaves a lasting impression. This art installation is one of the most intriguing places to visit in Zadar. Next, head to Sea Organ, a spectacular art installation, known for its noteworthy features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Roman Forum. This standout archeological site is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Church Of St. Donatus and Zadar Cathedral Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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 Plitvica Selo. Your travel time is around 2 hours 8 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Great Waterfall, a beloved waterfall in Plitvica Selo. Explore its mesmerizing features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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 delicious meal 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 satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

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 Caffe Bar Bizarre, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Backstage Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

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Day3

Day 3

  • Zadar
  • Šibenik
  • More

Drive 213 km, 3 hours 1 min

  • St. Jacob’s Cathedral
  • Šibenik City Museum
  • St Nicholas’ Fortress
  • Krka National Park
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Zadar, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Šibenik’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Zadar behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 2 min. Šibenik welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Šibenik Cathedral and explore the visually striking features. Next, make your way to Šibenik City Museum, another highlight in Šibenik. When you’re done exploring the museum, continue to St. Nicholas’ Fortress, an UNESCO world heritage-designated castle.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Krka National Park. Spend some time admiring the mesmerizing features of the national park before you continue to your next stop.

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

Zadar 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 Zadar.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Roko, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Harbor CookHouse & Club offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restoran Urnebes is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Zadar.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Garden Lounge, known for its lively atmosphere. Down Town is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Beach Bar Bamboo 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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Day4

Day 4

  • Zadar
  • Trogir
  • Split
  • More

Drive 158 km, 2 hours 22 min

  • Trogir Old Town
  • Kamerlengo Castle
  • Diocletian's Palace
  • Golden Gate
  • More

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in Croatia includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Trogir and Split. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Split, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Zadar and set your GPS to Trogir. 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 1 hour 28 min. Upon reaching Trogir, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Trogir Old Town. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the historical landmark before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Kamerlengo Castle. This underrated castle is a traveler-favorite in the town.

Set your GPS to Split and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 38 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Split beckons with new experiences!

Savor the day by heading to Diocletian's Palace, an extraordinary palace that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Golden Gate, where you can soak in the standout surroundings.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Split. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Nevera Tavern, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Perivoj restoran i kavana offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Konoba Laganini is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Split.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, La Linea provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Fabrique Pub offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Croatia.

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Day5

Day 5

  • Split
  • Veliko Brdo
  • Makarska
  • More

Drive 185 km, 3 hours 16 min

  • Forest Park Marjan
  • Mestrovic Gallery
  • West Bank
  • Vepric - Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes
  • St Peter Forest Park
  • More

Greet day 5 of your road trip in Croatia with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Split, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Split, Veliko Brdo, and Makarska.

Catch Marjan before the crowds roll in. This romantic park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the standout features of Mestrovic Gallery, a must-visit art gallery in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to West Bank, a worthwhile boardwalk.

After soaking in Split’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Veliko Brdo. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 8 min. When you arrive in Veliko Brdo, it's time to take a break from the road.

Vepric - Shrine Of Our Lady Of Lourdes is an often recommended church we recommend visiting today. Discover its culturally significant features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Makarska. This car ride takes around 7 min.

St. Peter Forest Park is an underrated park we recommend visiting today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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.

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Caffe Bar Mythos, known for its inviting atmosphere. Caffe Bar Legis is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Caffe Bar Tik provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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Day6

Day 6

  • Split
  • Primošten
  • Šibenik
  • Zadar
  • More

Drive 200 km, 3 hours 36 min

  • Statue of Our Lady Of Loreto
  • Beach Mala Raduča
  • St. Nicholas Fortress
  • More

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Primošten and Šibenik. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Zadar, where you'll spend 1 night.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Primošten.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Primošten. This car ride takes around 1 hour 8 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Statue Of Our Lady Of Loreto, a worthwhile monument in Primošten. Explore its culturally significant features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Beach Mala Raduča. This locally appreciated beach is a top recommendation in the area.

After soaking in Primošten’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 1 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 St. Nicholas Fortress. Spend some time admiring the UNESCO world heritage-listed features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

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.

Zadar 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 Zadar.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at GRICKO, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Konoba Rafaelo offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Konoba Misterija. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zadar.

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

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Croatia!

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Day7

Day 7

  • Zadar - Departure day
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  • Kolovare Beach
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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 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 Kolovare Beach, a romantic beach before you head out.

Make the most of your final day in Croatia by visiting Zadar’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing City Galleria. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing vacation. You can also browse through boutiques for stylish fashion choices.

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

If you're in the mood for something new, try Konoba Berekin, another premier location with a delectable 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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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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