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

Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Summary

Duration
7 days & 6 nights
Available
Jan. - Dec.
Hotel
6 nights included
Car rental
7 days included
Flights
Optional
Travel app
All vouchers, itinerary, & map

Description

Uncover the beauty of Croatia on this 7-day relaxed road trip, journeying through Zadar, Split, Stobreč, Općina Jasenice, and Nin. Unwind at your leisure on this self-drive vacation, discovering hidden gems and immersing yourself in the serene exploration.

This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Croatia at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Zadar, Split, Stobreč, Općina Jasenice, and Nin. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 3 nights in Zadar and 3 nights in Split. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Croatia.

Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Croatia. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Zadar, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 7-day journey across Croatia and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.

Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Croatia with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Croatia.

We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Croatia. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Diocletian's Palace. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Sea organ.

Traveling leisurely through Croatia means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Marjan. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.

Enjoy strolling through Croatia's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Croatia.

Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Croatia. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Croatia's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Croatia.

This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Croatia. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 6 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best car rental you can use throughout the 7 days of your self-drive road trip in Croatia. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.

This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.

Spend an amazing 7-day vacation in Croatia and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Croatia today!

Read more

Included

Hotel, 6 nights
Rental car, 7 days
CDW Insurance
Step-by-step guide
Personal travel agent
24/7 travel support

Destinations

Split city beaches aerial view, Croatia.Split / 3 nights
Nin - neighborhood in CroatiaNin
City of Zadar aerial panoramic view.Zadar / 3 nights
Maslenica
Photo of aerial view of Stobrec popular touristic destination on Adriatic sea, suburb of city of Split, Croatia.Stobreč

Map

Attractions

Diocletian's Palace
Photo of Zadar sea organs. Tourist attraction musical instrument powered by the underwater sea stream. Dalmatia region of Croatia.Sea organ
Photo of Split waterfront and Marjan hill aerial view, Dalmatia, Croatia.Forest Park Marjan
Photo of St.Donatus church in Roman Forum in Zadar, Croatia.Church of St Donatus
Market Zadar, Mjesni odbor Poluotok, Zadar, Grad Zadar, Zadar County, CroatiaMarket Zadar
People's Square, Mjesni odbor Poluotok, Zadar, Grad Zadar, Zadar County, CroatiaPeople's Square
Paklenica National ParkPaklenica National Park
Kolovare Beach
Roman Forum, Mjesni odbor Poluotok, Zadar, Grad Zadar, Zadar County, CroatiaRoman Forum
Maslenica bridge, Zadar County, CroatiaMaslenica Bridge
Solana Nin Salt Museum, Nin, Grad Nin, Zadar County, CroatiaSolana Nin Salt Museum
Pariževačka glavica
Photo of aerial view of famous Kašjuni beach from Marjan Hill, Split, Croatia.Kašjuni Beach
Queen Jelena Madijevka Park, Mjesni odbor Poluotok, Zadar, Grad Zadar, Zadar County, CroatiaQueen Jelena Madijevka Park
Photo of the Golden gate of Split old town, Croatia.Golden Gate
West Bank
plaža Kava Slatine, Slatine, Grad Split, Split-Dalmatia County, CroatiaPlaža Kava Slatine
Mestrovic Gallery, Meje, Split, Grad Split, Split-Dalmatia County, CroatiaMestrovic Gallery
Church of Our Lady of Prizidnice
Froggyland, Split, Grad Split, Split-Dalmatia County, CroatiaFroggyland
Diocletian's Cellars, Split, Grad Split, Split-Dalmatia County, CroatiaDiocletian's Cellars
Archaeological Museum in Split, Spinut, Split, Grad Split, Split-Dalmatia County, CroatiaArchaeological Museum in Split
Old Town Hall
Beach Camp Stobrec, Stobreč, Grad Split, Split-Dalmatia County, CroatiaBeach Camp Stobrec
Split viewpoint (belvedere), Meje, Split, Grad Split, Split-Dalmatia County, CroatiaSplit viewpoint (belvedere)
Beach Bar History, Bačvice, Split, Grad Split, Split-Dalmatia County, CroatiaBeach Bar History

Flights
Yes
No

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy

Travel details

Flights

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy
Travel dates

Include flights?

Yes
No

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Car
Yes
No

Car

Small car

Small car

Category
small car
Transmission
People
Large bags
Medium car

Medium car

Category
Medium
Transmission
People
Large bags
Premium car

Premium car

Category
premium car
Transmission
People
Large bags

Hotels

Personalize your itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 – Zadar - arrival day

  • Zadar - Arrival day
  • More
  • Kolovare Beach
  • More

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

Take the opportunity to see Kolovare Beach. This attraction has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 6,257 visitors.

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.

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 Zadar.

Make sure to reserve a table at Pizzeria Šime, 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 Хърватски ресторант "Галия", 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 Restoran Zadar - Jadera, a hidden gem nestled in Zadar. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Zadar and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Yachting Bar & Club, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Caffe bar Porthos offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The Factory Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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 Zadar as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

Read more
Day 2

Day 2 – Zadar

  • Zadar
  • More

Drive 4 km, 30 min

  • Sea organ
  • Roman Forum
  • Church of St Donatus
  • People's Square
  • Market Zadar
  • More

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Zadar, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Croatia are extraordinary.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Sea organ. This tide organ is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 57,178 visitors.

Roman Forum is another popular attraction you could visit today. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,709 visitors.

Church of St. Donatus is also highly recommended by travelers. This church building has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,708 visitors.

Narodni trg is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,636 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Market Zadar. This sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,657 travelers.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Zadar by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities.

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.

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.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Zadar and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

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

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Croatia!

Read more
Day 3

Day 3 – Zadar and Split

  • Split
  • More

Drive 157 km, 1 hour 53 min

  • Diocletian's Cellars
  • Diocletian's Palace
  • Golden Gate
  • Old Town Hall
  • Froggyland
  • More

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 Split, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 3 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Split. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 43 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Diocletian's Cellars. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 904 reviews.

Continue your journey at Diocletian's Palace. This museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 76,537 travelers from near and far.

Split is also the home of Golden Gate. This memorial gates and arches has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,820 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Old Town Hall. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 574 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Froggyland. With an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 1,077 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this museum.

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.

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.

Make sure to book a table at Nevera Tavern, a popular restaurant in Split. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Split at Perivoj restoran i kavana, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Bokeria Kitchen & Wine. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Split tonight.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Split.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Fabrique Pub for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Caffe bar Mythos is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Croatia.

Read more
Day 4

Day 4 – Split and Stobreč

  • Split
  • Stobreč
  • More

Drive 36 km, 1 hour 42 min

  • Beach Camp Stobrec
  • Beach Bar History
  • Forest Park Marjan
  • Mestrovic Gallery
  • Kašjuni Beach
  • More

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Croatia continues on day 4, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Croatia and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Stobreč and beyond. With 2 nights left in Split, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the village.

Make Beach Bar History one of your first sightseeing stops in Split. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 556 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Marjan is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This mountain is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,490 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Mestrovic Gallery. This art gallery has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,156 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Kašjuni Beach. A trip to this popular beach is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.4 out of 5-star rating as given by 2,800 previous visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Split, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Stobreč may take around 17 min. Upon your arrival in Stobreč, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Beach Camp Stobrec. This extraordinary point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 583 visitors.

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

Exploring the food culture in Split offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Dine in style at Villa Spiza, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Downtown Grill Split steak & seafood boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out PORTOFINO Steak - Pasta - Seafood. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Split.

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.

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

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

Read more
Day 5

Day 5 – Split

  • Split
  • More

Drive 86 km, 3 hours 34 min

  • Plaža Kava Slatine
  • Church of Our Lady of Prizidnice
  • Archaeological Museum in Split
  • Split viewpoint (belvedere)
  • West Bank
  • More

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip through Croatia means 24 hours of making the best memories in Split. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Split!

Journey into the unknown at Kava Beach, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,224 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Church of Our Lady of Prizidnice is a recommended place to visit. This church is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 955 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Split is Archaeological Museum in Split. Rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 778 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Split offers an experience you will remember.

Split viewpoint (belvedere) is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Split. This point of interest promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.7 out of 5 stars in 537 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on West Bank. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,338 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

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.

Exploring the food culture in Split offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Art Gallery Cafe Music Bar Split, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Duje offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Beach Bar History. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Split.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Split and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

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

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Croatia.

Read more
Day 6

Day 6 – Split, Općina Jasenice, Rupine, Parići, Nin, and Zadar

  • Zadar
  • Maslenica
  • Nin
  • More

Drive 264 km, 3 hours 47 min

  • Maslenica Bridge
  • Pariževačka glavica
  • Paklenica National Park
  • Solana Nin Salt Museum
  • More

On day 6 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Croatia. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Croatia.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Split, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Općina Jasenice. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 37 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Maslenica Bridge. This much-appreciated deck arch bridge is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 3,555 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Rupine. This drive usually takes around 8 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Pariževačka glavica. This landmark is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Rupine, with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 2,679 visitors.

After soaking in Rupine’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Parići. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 25 min. When you arrive in Parići, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Paklenica National Park. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Parići, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 5,842 visitors.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Zadar in this laid-back road trip in Croatia. You'll stay here for 1 night.

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 Zadar.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Harbor CookHouse & Club, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restoran Urnebes? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Konoba Rafaelo as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Zadar.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Zadar and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Keep the evening going at Beach Bar Bamboo, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Caffe Bar Kult, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Teatro Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Croatia.

Read more
Day 7

Day 7 – Zadar - departure day

  • Zadar - Departure day
  • More
  • Queen Jelena Madijevka Park
  • More

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 Zadar.

As you approach the end of your journey in Croatia, take a moment for some retail therapy in Zadar’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 Zadar is the remarkable Queen Jelena Madijevka Park. This park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,296 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 Zadar or just grab something light to keep you going.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restoran Bruschetta, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Zadar 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.

Read more

Similar travel packages

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.