7-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar to Šibenik, Split, and Lika-Senj County and surrounding area
Description
Included
Description
Explore the best of Croatia on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Zadar, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Grad Benkovac, Šibenik, Dubrava kod Šibenika, Split, Lika-Senj County, Smiljan, and Senj. This road trip itinerary in Croatia seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
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 Zadar, 1 night in Šibenik, 1 night in Split, 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 got 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. Marvel at the remarkable Marjan, learn more about the unique Church Of St. Donatus, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Šibenik Cathedral.
As you hit the open road and drive through Zadar, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Grad Benkovac, Šibenik, Dubrava kod Šibenika, Split, Lika-Senj County, Smiljan, and Senj, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Zadar - Arrival day
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- Kolovare Beach
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Your road trip adventure in Croatia begins as soon as you reach Zadar and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Zadar 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.
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 Kolovare Beach, 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 Zadar. 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 Zadar, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Pizzeria Šime, a popular restaurant in Zadar. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zadar at Harvatski restorant "Galiya", 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 Restoran Zadar - Jadera. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zadar tonight.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Yachting Bar & Club, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Caffe Bar Porthos offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The Factory Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Croatia!
Day 2
- Zadar
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Drive 4 km, 30 min
- Sea organ
- Roman Forum
- Church of St. Donatus
- People's Square
- Market Zadar
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Zadar has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Zadar by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Sea Organ. This spectacular art installation is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Roman Forum, one of the city’s best highlights.
Next, check out Church Of St. Donatus, one of the most frequently visited places to see in Zadar. This church is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Narodni Trg. Wander around and soak in the romantic atmosphere this public square offers. Then, head to Market Zadar, a top-rated market that adds another dimension to your day.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Croatia is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
Bring home unique finds from Zadar's bustling shopping hub, City Galleria. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique boutiques and stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, City Galleria offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.
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.
Continue your lively evening at Pirate Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Caffe Bar Bizarre is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Backstage Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!
Day 3
- Zadar
- Šibenik
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Drive 202 km, 3 hours 30 min
- Pag Bridge
- Maslenica Bridge
- Pariževačka glavica
- Paklenica National Park
- Vidikovac, Kamenjak
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 5 stops and experience some of the highlights of Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Rupine, Parići, and Grad Benkovac. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Šibenik, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Start your adventure at Paški Most. This underrated road bridge is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Maslenica Bridge located in Zadar for an enchanting atmosphere.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Pariževačka Glavica. Its instagrammable features will captivate you. After the cliff, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Paklenica National Park. This national park has an enchanting appeal. For a change of pace, head to Vidikovac, Kamenjak. As one of the most increasingly popular attractions in Zadar, this observation deck is an excellent place to end your self-guided tour.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Šibenik. Šibenik 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 Šibenik. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Experience a harmony of flavors at Pelegrini in Šibenik by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Pelegrini offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're looking to mix things up, Fry Guy offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.
Keep the evening going at Caffe Palma, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Mystic, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Azimut, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Croatia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4
- Šibenik
- Split
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Drive 110 km, 2 hours 24 min
- St Nicholas’ Fortress
- St. Jacob’s Cathedral
- St John's Fort
- Uvala Minerska bay
- Falconry center
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Šibenik and Dubrava kod Šibenika. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Split, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views await you in Šibenik on today’s itinerary. First up is the worthwhile castle, St. Nicholas’ Fortress. Afterward, continue to Šibenik Cathedral, a church every traveler should visit.
As you explore Šibenik’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to St. John's Fort. This intriguing castle is an essential stop. Following that, head to Uvala Minerska Bay, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Falconry Center, a beloved bird watching area in the city.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Split. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
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.
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.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out La Linea, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Fabrique Pub. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Head back to your accommodation in Split and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 5
- Split
- Lika-Senj
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Drive 235 km, 3 hours 7 min
- Golden Gate
- Diocletian's Palace
- West Bank
- Kašjuni Beach
- Forest Park Marjan
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Split, 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 Lika-Senj County. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Start by visiting Golden Gate, a prime spot to begin your journey. This UNESCO world heritage-listed historical landmark is sure to impress. Next on your list is Diocletian's Palace, another must-visit landmark and extraordinary palace renowned for its visually striking features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Split by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to West Bank. This romantic boardwalk is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Kašjuni Beach also adds charm to your journey, and Marjan wraps up your day with its peaceful appeal.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Lika-Senj County, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Lika-Senj County's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Dine in style at The Highlanders pub, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Kavana Milinković boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Lika-Senj County.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Caffe Bar Fortuna, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Caffe Bar Amadeus offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Caffe Bar Bevanda. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Croatia.
Day 6
- Lika-Senj
- Zadar
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Drive 288 km, 3 hours 35 min
- Nikola Tesla Memorial Center
- Nehaj Fortress
- Sundial on the 45th parallel
- Plaža Prva Draga
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Smiljan and Senj. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zadar. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. The first attraction of today is Nikola Tesla Memorial Center. This frequently visited museum is a heritage-rich place to see in Lika-Senj County. Continue your discovery at Nehaj Fortress, a culturally significant castle with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Lika-Senj County, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Sundial On The 45th Parallel. This locally appreciated monument offers a breathtaking encounter with Lika-Senj County. Next, make your way to Plaža Prva Draga to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Lika-Senj County.
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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Roko, a top-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Harbor CookHouse & Club, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran Urnebes. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Garden Lounge, known for its inviting atmosphere. Down Town is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Beach Bar Bamboo provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Croatia!
Day 7
- Zadar - Departure day
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- Queen Jelena Madijevka Park
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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, begin at Queen Jelena Madijevka Park. This up-and-coming park is a popular place to see in the city.
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 experience in Croatia. 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 Rafaelo, 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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