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

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Experience the freedom of the open road on an unforgettable 8-day road trip in Croatia! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Split, Trogir, Šibenik, Grad Skradin, Zadar, Korenica, Plitvica Selo, Nin, and Grad Biograd na Moru.

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. Marvel at the remarkable Sea Organ, learn more about the unique Krka National Park, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Marjan.

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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Day 1

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. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Marmontova Street, a must-see street, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Split. Make yourself at home and unwind 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 Split, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, La Linea offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Fabrique Pub, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

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Day 2

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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On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Split. You’ll stay in Split for 1 night.

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.

One of the most interesting attractions included on the itinerary is Marjan. This romantic park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to West Bank and learn what makes this instagrammable boardwalk unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the up-and-coming Split Ethnographic Museum. After exploring the museum, head to Diocletian's Palace. This extraordinary palace is a highlight in Split. As your day continues, stop by Golden Gate, known for its UNESCO world heritage-listed features.

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.

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 Babylon, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, DeListes restaurant Split offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bokeria Kitchen & Wine is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Split.

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

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Croatia!

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Day 3

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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On day 3 of your road trip in Croatia, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Trogir and Šibenik are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Šibenik, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Let Trogir Old Town set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this UNESCO world heritage-designated historical landmark before continuing your journey. Kamerlengo Castle is your next stop. This worthwhile castle is one of the best-rated sights in Split.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Šibenik City Museum. This visually striking museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Šibenik Cathedral and St. Nicholas Fortress.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Antin Gušt Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Fry Guy? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Atrium as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Šibenik.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Caffe Palma, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Mystic offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Azimut provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Croatia!

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Day 4

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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On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Šibenik, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Visiting Krka National Park is always a good idea. This famous national park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the romantic wonders of Visovac Monastery, a must-see monastery in the town.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Skradinski Buk. This increasingly popular waterfall offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Gastro Italiano, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? buffet Šimun offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Pub&wine bar Scala. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Šibenik.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Caffe Bar Garage, known for its inviting atmosphere. Vintage Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Moby Dick Caffe 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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Day 5

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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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 Zadar, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Experience Sea Organ, an impressive art installation in the city. Then, head to Monument To The Sun and soak in the ambiance of this romantic art installation.

There are many interesting places to see in Šibenik, and when you are ready for more, go to Roman Forum. This is one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing breathtaking spots of interest. After exploring the archeological site, visit the intriguing Church Of St. Donatus. Not far away, you'll also find National Museum Zadar. This museum is a photogenic highlight in Šibenik. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Narodni Trg, an often recommended public square in the city.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Pizzeria Šime, a highly-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're eager to try something different, consider Harvatski restorant "Galiya", another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

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

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Zadar
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Drive 318 km, 4 hours 26 min

  • Plitvice Lakes National Park
  • Great Waterfall
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Greet day 6 of your road trip in Croatia with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Zadar, 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 Korenica and Plitvica Selo.

Start your day at Plitvice Lakes National Park. This mesmerizing national park is a timeless place to see in Zadar. Then, wander over to Great Waterfall. If idyllic sites excite you, this waterfall will be right up your alley.

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

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

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 consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Zadar tonight.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

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Day 7

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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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Nin and Grad Biograd na Moru. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Split, where will spend 1 night.

Knez Branimir brings Zadar's character to life. This eye-catching monument is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Church Of The Holy Cross, another culturally significant attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Solana Nin Salt Museum, one of the town’s most curiosity-inducing attractions, known for its awe-inspiring features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Town Of Biograd. This history-steeped city hall is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Plaža Soline, a beloved beach, and take a stroll around the area.

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.

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 Villa Spiza, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Kadena beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Konoba Kod Joze. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Split tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Ave Caffe Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Tennis Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Jadran Beach Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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Day 8

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, begin at Croatian Maritime Museum. This worthwhile maritime museum is a hotspot among locals.

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.

If you're in the mood for something new, try Downtown Grill Split steak & seafood, another premier location with a delectable 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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