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

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Photo of Zadar archipelago. Kali on Ugljan island turquoise sea and walkway view, Croatia.
Photo of Zadar historic Fosa harbor bay in Zadar ,boats and architecture colorful view, Croatia.
Photo of town of Zadar historic peninsula panoramic aerial view, Croatia.
Photo of two girls walking on top of Sun Salutation installation near the sea shore against the background of a hill range and cloudy morning sky, Zadar, Croatia.
Photo of clock tower on the people's square in historic center of the Zadar town at the Mediterranean Sea, Croatia.
Photo of aerial view of famous Fosa harbor in Zadar, Croatia.
Photo of lighthouse in Zadar, Croatia.
Photo of scenic view at coastal town Zadar in Croatia, famous riva in city center.
Photo of aerial view of the Zadar old town and sea, Croatia.
Photo of Saint Anastasia Cathedral, (Katedrala Sv. Stosije), Zadar, Croatia.
Photo of Fisherman's red house on the water, Croatia, Zadar.
Photo of sea gate in the historical center of Croatian town Zadar, Croatia.
Photo of the city of Zadar in Croatia at sunset.
Photo of Church of St. Donatus in Zadar, Croatia at sunset.
Photo of Split panoramic aerial view of town with beautiful beach and blue sky, Dalmatia, Croatia.
Photo of beautiful Adriatic Beach and Lagoon with Turquoise Water near Split, Croatia.
Photo of Laguna beautiful beach surrounded by rocks and forests, Pisak Split Dalmatia, Croatia.
Photo of Split city beaches aerial view, Croatia.
Photo of amazing beach of split  Dalmatia, Croatia.
Photo of woman traveler enjoying the view of the beach and old town of Split in Dalmatia, Croatia.
Photo of the best Split beaches Kastelet, Dalmatia, Croatia.
Photo of Kastel Stafilic landmarks and turquoise beach view, Split region of Dalmatia, Croatia.
Photo of Split waterfront panoramic view from pier, Dalmatia, Croatia.
Photo of beautiful landscape with Split old town, Dalmatian coast, Croatia.
Photo of Zlatni Rat (Golden Cape) is a popular beach in the Town Bol which is on the south of the island of Brac in the Split-Dalmatia County of Croatia.
Photo of Adriatic sea coast with small boats tied to the pier in traditional town, Split, Croatia.
Photo of old stone street of Split historic city, Dalmatia, Croatia.
Photo of aerial view of cityscape of Croatian city Split behind Riva promenade.
Photo of Upward view of Bell tower of Cathedral of St. Domnius in Diocletian's Palace, Split, Croatia.
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through Croatia. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Croatia takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 4 nights in Zadar and 3 nights in Split. 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 got you covered.

Upon arriving in Zadar, 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 Marjan, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Biokovo Nature Park - Skywalk.

As you hit the open road and drive through Zadar, Korenica, Grad Skradin, Šibenik, Trogir, Split, Makarska, Podgora, 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, accommodation, 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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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
People's Square
Plitvice Lakes National ParkSea organThe Greeting to the Sun
Skradinski bukŠibenik City MuseumSt. Jacob’s Cathedral
Trogir Old TownKamerlengo CastleRivaForest Park Marjan
Golden GateDiocletian's PalaceSaint Domnius Bell TowerDiocletian's Cellars
St Peter Forest ParkMalacological MuseumBiokovo Nature Park
Statue of Our Lady Of LoretoBeach Mala RadučaSt. Nicholas Fortress
Roman Forum

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Zadar - Arrival day
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  • People's Square
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Your road trip adventure in Croatia begins as soon as you reach Zadar and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Zadar for 3 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Zadar 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 Narodni Trg, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Zadar. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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 Zadar, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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.

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

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Zadar
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Drive 303 km, 4 hours 34 min

  • Plitvice Lakes National Park
  • Sea organ
  • The Greeting to the Sun
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On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Zadar, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Korenica and Zadar. You still have 2 nights left in Zadar.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Zadar, including a national park and an art installation. Start your day at Plitvice Lakes National Park. This idyllic national park is a globally renowned place to see in Zadar. Then, wander over to Sea Organ. If culturally significant sites excite you, this art installation will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Monument To The Sun. This visually striking art installation is a favorite among visitors.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, 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 Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, 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 Restaurant 2Ribara, a hidden gem nestled in Zadar. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Say good night to Zadar and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Zadar
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Drive 192 km, 2 hours 48 min

  • Skradinski buk
  • Šibenik City Museum
  • St. Jacob’s Cathedral
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On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Zadar, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Get ready for an exciting day in Zadar. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a waterfall, a museum, and a church. Begin your adventure at Skradinski Buk. This is a beloved waterfall you should not miss. Another must-see is Šibenik City Museum, an up-and-coming museum in Zadar.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Šibenik Cathedral.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Zadar. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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

Continue your lively evening at The Garden Lounge, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Down Town is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Beach Bar Bamboo ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Zadar
  • Split
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Drive 167 km, 2 hours 45 min

  • Trogir Old Town
  • Kamerlengo Castle
  • Riva
  • Forest Park Marjan
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On day 4 of your road trip in Croatia, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Trogir and Split. In the evening, you’ll end up in Split, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Trogir Old Town. This locally appreciated historical landmark is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Kamerlengo Castle, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out Trogir Promenade, one of the most increasingly popular places to see in Zadar. This boardwalk is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Marjan. Wander around and soak in the eye-catching atmosphere this park offers.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Split. Split 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 Split's best restaurants.

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.

Continue your lively evening at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. La Linea is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Fabrique Pub ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Split
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Drive 1 km, 14 min

  • Golden Gate
  • Diocletian's Palace
  • Saint Domnius Bell Tower
  • Diocletian's Cellars
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Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Split for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Golden Gate. This curiosity-inducing historical landmark is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Diocletian's Palace, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Saint Domnius Bell Tower, one of the most beloved places to see in Split. This monument is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Diocletian's Cellars. Wander around and soak in the UNESCO world heritage-listed atmosphere this archeological site offers.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Croatia is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Split. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Babylon, a top-rated dining destination in Split. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider DeListes restaurant Split, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bokeria Kitchen & Wine. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Split this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Caffe Bar Mythos, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Caffe Bar Legis offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Split. Caffe Bar Tik is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Say good night to Split and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Split
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Drive 226 km, 4 hours 17 min

  • St Peter Forest Park
  • Malacological Museum
  • Biokovo Nature Park
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On day 6 of your road trip in Croatia, you’ll start and end your day in Split, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Split for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Makarska and Podgora to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Split, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at St. Peter Forest Park, a locally appreciated park in the town. Then, head to Malacological Museum and soak in the ambiance of this photogenic museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Split, and when you are ready for more, go to Biokovo Nature Park - Skywalk. This is one of the town’s most beloved romantic spots of interest.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Split. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Split.

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

Relax and reminisce about your day in Croatia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Split
  • Zadar
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Drive 200 km, 3 hours 36 min

  • Statue of Our Lady Of Loreto
  • Beach Mala Raduča
  • St. Nicholas Fortress
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Primošten and Šibenik. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zadar, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Split. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await! Statue Of Our Lady Of Loreto is the perfect place to start. This monument is one of the most curiosity-inducing places to visit in Split. Next, head to Beach Mala Raduča, a locally appreciated beach, known for its romantic 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 St. Nicholas Fortress. This history-steeped castle is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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.

As you explore more of Zadar, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

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

Cap off your dinner by heading to Caffe Bar Kult, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Teatro Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Sphinx is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Croatia.

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Zadar - Departure day
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  • Roman Forum
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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 Zadar 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 Roman Forum, a picture-perfect archeological site before you head out.

Maximize your last day in Croatia and go on a shopping spree in Zadar’s shopping center, the lively City Galleria. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Croatia. Discover boutiques with stylish fashion choices to upgrade your wardrobe.

Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Zadar.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Buffet Kod Stipe, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Konoba Berekin? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Zadar. 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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