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

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Description

Explore Croatia and discover its unique charm on this 8-day relaxed road trip through Split, Šibenik, Zadar, Nin, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Grad Skradin, and Primošten. Delight in a stress-free journey that focuses on exploration through the country's most captivating landscapes.

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 Split, Šibenik, Zadar, Nin, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Grad Skradin, and Primošten. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 3 nights in Split and 4 nights in Zadar. 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 Split, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 8-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 Krka National Park. 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 7 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 8 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 8-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!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
West Bank
Kašjuni BeachForest Park MarjanGolden GateDiocletian's PalaceDiocletian's Cellars
St. Jacob’s CathedralŠibenik City MuseumAquarium Terrarium ŠibenikSt Nicholas’ FortressDiocletian's Palace
Cathedral of St. AnastasiaChurch of St. DonatusRoman ForumSea organThe Greeting to the Sun
Kolovare BeachThe Five Wells SquareQueen Jelena Madijevka ParkPeople's SquareMarket ZadarSea organ
Solana Nin Salt MuseumPag BridgeMaslenica BridgeSea organ
Krka National ParkSkradinski bukBeach Mala RadučaSea organ
Diocletian's Palace

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Day 1

Day 1

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

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 West Bank or taking a stroll in the city center. 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 hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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 Split.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Nevera Tavern, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Perivoj restoran i kavana? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Konoba Laganini as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Split.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

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 as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Croatia. Enjoy your first taste of Split as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Split
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Drive 16 km, 1 hour 2 min

  • Kašjuni Beach
  • Forest Park Marjan
  • Golden Gate
  • Diocletian's Palace
  • Diocletian's Cellars
  • More

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia, you’ll go deep into Split, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Split, and meet locals along the way!

Today’s itinerary in Split covers several incredible sights, including a beach, a park, a historical landmark, a palace, an archeological site and much more! Start your adventure at Kašjuni Beach. This increasingly popular beach is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring wonders of Marjan, a must-see park in the city.

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 Golden Gate. This intriguing historical landmark offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Diocletian's Palace, where you can take in its visually striking features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Diocletian's Cellars. This UNESCO world heritage-designated archeological site offers a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Croatia more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Split offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Split by reserving a table at Šug. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of regional cuisine. Looking for something different? DeListes restaurant Split offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Split.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

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.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Split can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Croatia!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Split
  • Šibenik
  • Zadar
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Drive 179 km, 2 hours 18 min

  • St. Jacob’s Cathedral
  • Šibenik City Museum
  • Aquarium Terrarium Šibenik
  • St Nicholas’ Fortress
  • Diocletian's Palace
  • More

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip across Croatia promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Šibenik and drive in the direction of the city of Zadar for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Zadar, where you’ll stay for 4 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Split, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Šibenik. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 9 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Šibenik Cathedral is an increasingly popular church we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its history-steeped features before continuing your self-guided tour to Šibenik City Museum, a respected museum that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Aquarium Terrarium Šibenik, an eye-catching aquarium. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit St. Nicholas’ Fortress, a culturally significant and truly unique castle.

In the city of Zadar, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Croatia.

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 Zadar, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Savor the flavors at Pizzeria Šime, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Harvatski restorant "Galiya" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restoran Zadar - Jadera. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zadar tonight.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Zadar’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Croatia.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Yachting Bar & Club after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Caffe Bar Porthos, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Factory Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Croatia. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Croatia tomorrow with new energy.

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Zadar
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Drive 4 km, 32 min

  • Cathedral of St. Anastasia
  • Church of St. Donatus
  • Roman Forum
  • Sea organ
  • The Greeting to the Sun
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Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Zadar, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Croatia are extraordinary.

Zadar is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church, an archeological site, and an art installation. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the underrated Zadar Cathedral. Just a short distance away is Church Of St. Donatus, a heritage-rich church that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Roman Forum, one of the city’s most beloved spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the impressive Sea Organ. Last up on today’s itinerary is an art installation. Make your way to Monument To The Sun for some final sightseeing. Each attraction will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of Zadar.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Croatia. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Croatia and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Exploring the food culture in Zadar 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 Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Pet Bunara Dine & Wine boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurant 2Ribara. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zadar.

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

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Pirate Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Caffe Bar Bizarre, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Backstage Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Zadar
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Drive 4 km, 41 min

  • Kolovare Beach
  • The Five Wells Square
  • Queen Jelena Madijevka Park
  • People's Square
  • Market Zadar
  • Sea organ
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Day 5 of your relaxed road trip through Croatia means 24 hours of making the best memories in Zadar. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Zadar. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Zadar!

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Zadar, including a beach, a public square, a park, a market and much more! Start your day at Kolovare Beach. This mesmerizing beach is an intriguing place to see in Zadar. Then, wander over to The Five Wells Square. If grand sites excite you, this public square will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Queen Jelena Madijevka Park. This romantic park is a favorite among visitors.

Zadar offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Narodni Trg is an intriguing spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the public square, don’t forget to check out the picture-perfect Market Zadar. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this beloved market in Zadar.

Croatia makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Croatia also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Zadar, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

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

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Zadar. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Garden Lounge, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Down Town, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Beach Bar Bamboo provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Zadar
  • Nin
  • Maslenica
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Drive 156 km, 2 hours 36 min

  • Solana Nin Salt Museum
  • Pag Bridge
  • Maslenica Bridge
  • Sea organ
  • More

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip across Croatia, you’ll explore the area around Zadar, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Zadar will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Croatia.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Zadar, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Nin. This drive usually takes around 21 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Head to Solana Nin Salt Museum, an increasingly popular museum in Nin. Explore its gorgeous features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at GRICKO, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Konoba Rafaelo offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Konoba Misterija is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Zadar.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Zadar’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Croatia.

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

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Zadar
  • Skradin
  • Primošten
  • Split
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Drive 211 km, 3 hours 57 min

  • Krka National Park
  • Skradinski buk
  • Beach Mala Raduča
  • Sea organ
  • More

On day 7 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.

Your self-guided tour starts at Krka National Park, an astonishing national park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Primošten. This car ride takes around 59 min.

Head to Skradinski Buk, an increasingly popular waterfall in Grad Skradin. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking in Grad Skradin’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Primošten. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 59 min. When you arrive in Primošten, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your journey at Beach Mala Raduča and explore the instagrammable features.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Croatia at Split. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

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 Split.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Villa Spiza, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Kadena is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Konoba Kod Joze. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in 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.

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.

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

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Split - Departure day
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  • Diocletian's Palace
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Day 8 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 Split.

Maximize your last day in Croatia and go on a shopping spree in Split’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Croatia.

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.

Unwind and look back at the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Split or just grab something light to keep you going.

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

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Split and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in Croatia is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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