One-Week Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Split to Dubrovnik, Šibenik, Zagreb, and Zadar and surrounding area

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Explore the best of Croatia on a remarkable 8-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Split, Dubrovnik, Bosanka, Trsteno, Šibenik, Zagreb, Zadar, Bogatić, Grad Skradin, and Primošten.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Croatia. You will spend 2 nights in Split, 2 nights in Dubrovnik, 1 night in Šibenik, 1 night in Zagreb, and 1 night 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. Diocletian's Palace and Sea Organ are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Krka National Park, learn more about the unique Zagreb Zoo, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Ban Josip Jelačić Statue.

As you hit the open road and drive through Split, Dubrovnik, Bosanka, Trsteno, Šibenik, Zagreb, Zadar, Bogatić, Grad Skradin, 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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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day 1

Day 1

  • Split - Arrival day
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  • Forest Park Marjan
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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 1 night 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 Marjan. 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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Nevera Tavern, a popular restaurant in Split. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Split at Perivoj restoran i kavana, 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 Konoba Laganini. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Split tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to La Linea, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Fabrique Pub provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Split
  • Dubrovnik
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Drive 250 km, 3 hours 53 min

  • Diocletian's Palace
  • Golden Gate
  • Mestrovic Gallery
  • Kašjuni Beach
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Split. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Dubrovnik, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Let Diocletian's Palace set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this grand palace before continuing your journey. Golden Gate is your next stop. This curiosity-inducing historical landmark 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 Mestrovic Gallery. This instagrammable art gallery is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Kašjuni Beach.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Lucin Kantun Dubrovnik, a top-rated dining destination in Dubrovnik. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Portun, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at TuttoBene Pizzeria & Fast Food. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dubrovnik this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Promenada stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Sports Pub Mario offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Caffe-bar Van is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Dubrovnik
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Drive 8 km, 26 min

  • The Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary
  • Rector's Palace, Dubrovnik
  • Sponza Palace
  • Porat Dubrovnik
  • Dubrovnik Cable Car
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Day 3 of your road trip across Croatia promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Bosanka. You have 1 night left in Dubrovnik. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Whether you decide to explore Bosanka on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

The Cathedral Of The Assumption Of The Virgin Mary is an ideal stop early in the day. This up-and-coming church is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Rector's Palace, Dubrovnik, which may be one of the most enchanting places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Dubrovnik on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Sponza Palace, a beloved palace in the village. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Porat Dubrovnik and Dubrovnik Cable Car.

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 Dubrovnik. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Taverna Loggia, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Maskeron is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Magellan, Restaurant & Caffe Bar. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Dubrovnik tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Caffe & Night Bar Amor, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Celtic Bar Belfast Dubrovnik. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Seven Sins, another top-rated place in the area.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Dubrovnik
  • Šibenik
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Drive 291 km, 3 hours 37 min

  • Forest Park Velika and Mala Petka
  • Onofrio's Large Fountain
  • Fort Lovrijenac
  • Trsteno Arboretum
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Dubrovnik and Trsteno. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Šibenik, where will spend 1 night.

Catch Velika And Mala Petka Forest Park before the crowds roll in. This eye-catching park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the symbolic features of Onofrio Fountain, a must-visit monument 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 Lovrijenac, an underrated castle. For a change of scene, check out Trsteno Arboretum, known for its eye-catching features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Šibenik. 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 Šibenik, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Šibenik by reserving a table at Pelegrini. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. Looking for something different? Fry Guy offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Šibenik.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Šibenik
  • Zagreb
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Drive 350 km, 3 hours 40 min

  • Bundek City Park
  • Zagreb Zoo
  • Park Maksimir
  • Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
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On day 5 of your road trip in Croatia, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Zagreb are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zagreb, where you will stay for 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the captivating Bundek and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Zagreb Zoo, a photogenic zoo that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Park Maksimir, one of the city’s most locally renowned spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the popular Ban Josip Jelačić Statue.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Zagreb. Zagreb 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 Zagreb. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Zinfandel's Restaurant, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Esplanade Zagreb Hotel offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Rougemarin City is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Zagreb.

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

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Croatia.

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Zagreb
  • Zadar
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Drive 290 km, 3 hours 17 min

  • Market Zadar
  • The Greeting to the Sun
  • Sea organ
  • Church of St. Donatus
  • People's Square
  • More

Your itinerary for day 6 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 1 night.

Enjoy all that Market Zadar has to offer. This is a curiosity-inducing market you should not miss. Another must-see is Monument To The Sun, an increasingly popular art installation in Zagreb.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Sea Organ. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Church Of St. Donatus, another of the city’s beloved attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Narodni Trg, an enchanting place of interest 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.

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.

Dine in style at Pizzeria Šime, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Harvatski restorant "Galiya" boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restoran Zadar - Jadera. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zadar.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Yachting Bar & Club offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Caffe Bar Porthos is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The Factory Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Zadar
  • Split
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Drive 223 km, 4 hours 18 min

  • Roski waterfall
  • Krka National Park
  • Skradinski buk
  • Plaža Velika Raduča
  • Beach Mala Raduča
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On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Bogatić, Grad Skradin, and Primošten. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Split, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

No visit to Zadar is complete without Roski Waterfall. This up-and-coming waterfall is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Krka National Park, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Zadar, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Skradinski Buk. This intriguing waterfall is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Plaža Velika Raduča, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Beach Mala Raduča is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Babylon, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try DeListes restaurant Split? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bokeria Kitchen & Wine as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Split.

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

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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Day 8

Day 8

  • Split - Departure day
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  • West Bank
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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 West Bank. This locally appreciated boardwalk is a hotspot among locals.

For a last-minute shopping spree in Split, Marmontova Street is nearby. Enjoy a variety of retail stores, dining options, and essential services in one convenient location. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home.

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 to try something new, consider Restaurant Kadena, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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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