One-Week Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Split to Šibenik and Zadar

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Photo of beautiful Adriatic Beach and Lagoon with Turquoise Water near Split, Croatia.
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-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 Šibenik, and 2 nights in Zadar. 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. Plitvice Lakes National Park and Diocletian's Palace are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Split, Trogir, Šibenik, Grad Skradin, Zadar, Korenica, Plitvica Selo, Nin, and Grad Biograd na Moru, 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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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day1

Day 1

  • Split - Arrival day
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  • Marmontova Street
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Your road trip adventure in Croatia begins as soon as you reach Split and pick up your car. You’ll stay here for 2 nights and explore what to see in Split, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Split. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas in the city.

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.

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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. La Linea is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Fabrique Pub is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Croatia!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Split
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Drive 11 km, 55 min

  • Forest Park Marjan
  • West Bank
  • Split Ethnographic Museum
  • Diocletian's Palace
  • Golden Gate
  • 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.

Whether you decide to explore Split on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Make sure to visit Bacvice, a popular neighborhood in Split. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Marjan is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This romantic park is sure to impress. Next on your list is West Bank, another must-visit landmark and up-and-coming boardwalk renowned for its romantic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Split by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Split Ethnographic Museum. This photogenic museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Split experience. We also recommend visiting Diocletian's Palace, a famous palace. Nearby, you'll also find Golden Gate, ready to add charm to your journey.

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.

Split 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 Split.

Savor the flavors at Babylon, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, DeListes restaurant Split beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bokeria Kitchen & Wine. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Split tonight.

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

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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Day3

Day 3

  • Split
  • Šibenik
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Drive 87 km, 2 hours 27 min

  • Trogir Old Town
  • Kamerlengo Castle
  • Šibenik City Museum
  • St. Jacob’s Cathedral
  • St. Nicholas Fortress
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Trogir and Šibenik. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Šibenik, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Enjoy all that Trogir Old Town has to offer. This is a beloved historical landmark you should not miss. Another must-see is Kamerlengo Castle, an intriguing castle in Split.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Šibenik City Museum. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Šibenik Cathedral, another of the town’s locally appreciated attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at St. Nicholas Fortress, a history-steeped place of interest in the town.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Šibenik. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Antin Gušt Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Šibenik. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Fry Guy, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Atrium. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Šibenik this evening.

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

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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Day4

Day 4

  • Šibenik
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Drive 89 km, 2 hours 16 min

  • Krka National Park
  • Visovac Monastery
  • Skradinski buk
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Wake up to day 4 of your road trip in Croatia. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Grad Skradin. With 1 night to stay in Šibenik, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Your adventure in Šibenik is only getting started when you visit Krka National Park, a top-rated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Visovac Monastery. This increasingly popular monastery is known for its romantic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Šibenik's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Skradinski Buk. This mesmerizing waterfall offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

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

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Gastro Italiano, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, buffet Šimun offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Pub&wine bar Scala is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Šibenik.

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

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

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Day5

Day 5

  • Šibenik
  • Zadar
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Drive 90 km, 1 hour 30 min

  • Sea organ
  • The Greeting to the Sun
  • Roman Forum
  • Church of St. Donatus
  • National Museum Zadar
  • People's Square
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Zadar. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zadar, where will spend 2 nights.

Sea Organ leaves a lasting impression. This art installation is one of the most spectacular places to visit in Šibenik. Next, head to Monument To The Sun, a worthwhile art installation, known for its instagrammable 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 breathtaking archeological site is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Church Of St. Donatus and National Museum Zadar Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey. Finish the day with a visit to Narodni Trg, a romantic public square in Šibenik.

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.

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 Pizzeria Šime, a top-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Harvatski restorant "Galiya", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Yachting Bar & Club, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Caffe Bar Porthos, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Factory Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

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Day6

Day 6

  • Zadar
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Drive 318 km, 4 hours 26 min

  • Plitvice Lakes National Park
  • Great Waterfall
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On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Zadar, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Korenica and Plitvica Selo.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This UNESCO world heritage-designated national park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Great Waterfall, another must-visit landmark and worthwhile waterfall renowned for its romantic features.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a highly-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're eager to try something different, consider Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant 2Ribara. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

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Day7

Day 7

  • Zadar
  • Split
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Drive 202 km, 3 hours 29 min

  • Knez Branimir
  • Church of the Holy Cross
  • Solana Nin Salt Museum
  • Town of Biograd
  • Plaža Soline
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Your itinerary for day 7 of your road trip in Croatia includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Nin and Grad Biograd na Moru. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Split, where you'll spend 1 night.

Check out the curiosity-inducing monument, Knez Branimir. Afterward, continue to Church Of The Holy Cross, a church every traveler should visit. As you explore Zadar’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town.

Next, make your way to Solana Nin Salt Museum. This worthwhile museum is an essential stop. Following that, head to Town Of Biograd, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Plaža Soline, an increasingly popular beach in the town.

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.

Split 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 Split.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Villa Spiza, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Kadena offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Konoba Kod Joze. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Split.

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

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

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Day8

Day 8

  • Split - Departure day
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  • Croatian Maritime Museum
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Day 8 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, we recommend visiting Croatian Maritime Museum, a photogenic maritime museum before you head out.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to Split’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Discover boutiques offering an array of 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 Split.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Movi, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Downtown Grill Split steak & seafood is another top choice with a popular menu.

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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