One-Week Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar to Split and Lika-Senj County
Description
Included
Description
Explore the best of Croatia on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Zadar, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Grad Benkovac, Split, Stobreč, Lika-Senj County, Smiljan, Perušić, and Korenica. This road trip itinerary in Croatia seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Croatia takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Zadar, 3 nights in Split, and 1 night in Lika-Senj County. 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.
As you hit the open road and drive through Zadar, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Grad Benkovac, Split, Stobreč, Lika-Senj County, Smiljan, Perušić, and Korenica, 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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Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1 – Zadar - arrival day
- Zadar - Arrival day
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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 2 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 Kolovare Beach or 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 in Zadar. 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 Pizzeria Šime, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Harvatski restorant "Galiya" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restoran Zadar - Jadera. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zadar.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Yachting Bar & Club, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Caffe Bar Porthos offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Zadar. The Factory Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Croatia!
Day 2 – Zadar
- Zadar
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Drive 7 km, 28 min
- People's Square
- Market Zadar
- Sea organ
- Roman Forum
- Church of St. Donatus
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Zadar has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Zadar by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Today’s agenda in Zadar includes a public square, a market, an art installation, an archeological site, a church and much more! Narodni Trg is must-visit public square and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Market Zadar, an often recommended market, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Sea Organ, a visually striking art installation, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Zadar. If you’re looking for more, Roman Forum is also a worthwhile attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Church Of St. Donatus, an often recommended gem to see in the city.
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 Zadar. 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Pet Bunara Dine & Wine offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurant 2Ribara is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Zadar.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Pirate Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Caffe Bar Bizarre offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Zadar. Backstage Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Say good night to Zadar and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 3 – Zadar, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Parići, Grad Benkovac, and Split
- Zadar
- Maslenica
- Split
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Drive 267 km, 4 hours 3 min
- Pag Bridge
- Maslenica Bridge
- Paklenica National Park
- Sea organ
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Parići, and Grad Benkovac. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Split, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.
Općina Jasenice’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Općina Ražanac behind. This drive usually takes around 24 min. Općina Jasenice welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Your self-guided tour starts at Maslenica Bridge, an increasingly popular deck arch bridge that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Općina Jasenice and set your GPS to Parići. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 17 min. Upon reaching Parići, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Paklenica National Park. Spend some time admiring the picturesque features of the national park before you continue to your next stop.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Split. Split offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Split's best restaurants.
Dine in style at Nevera Tavern, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Perivoj restoran i kavana boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Konoba Laganini. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Split.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. La Linea is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Fabrique Pub provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Say good night to Split and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 4 – Split
- Split
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Drive 2 km, 13 min
- Froggyland
- Golden Gate
- Diocletian's Cellars
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On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Split. You’ll stay in Split for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Today's adventure in Split promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Froggyland. This instagrammable museum is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Old Town Hall, another photogenic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Golden Gate, one of the city’s most frequently visited attractions, known for its heritage-rich features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Diocletian's Cellars. This respected archeological site is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Diocletian's Palace, a famous palace, and take a stroll around the area.
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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Split. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
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.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Caffe Bar Mythos. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Legis offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Caffe Bar Tik, another top-rated bar in the area.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!
Day 5 – Split
- Split
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Drive 25 km, 1 hour 25 min
- Split viewpoint (belvedere)
- Forest Park Marjan
- Mestrovic Gallery
- Kašjuni Beach
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Day 5 of your road trip across Croatia promises a magnificent time exploring Split. You have 1 night left in Split. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Split is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include an observation deck, a park, an art gallery, a boardwalk, a beach and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the often recommended Split Viewpoint (belvedere). Just a short distance away is Marjan, a serene park that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Mestrovic Gallery, one of the city’s most locally appreciated spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the curiosity-inducing West Bank. Last up on today’s itinerary is a beach. Make your way to Kašjuni Beach for some final sightseeing. Each attraction will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of Split.
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 you explore more of Split, 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Villa Spiza, a highly-rated dining destination in Split. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant Kadena, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Konoba Kod Joze. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Split this evening.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Ave Caffe Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Tennis Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Jadran Beach Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Croatia.
Day 6 – Split, Stobreč, and Lika-Senj County
- Split
- Stobreč
- Lika-Senj
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Drive 256 km, 3 hours 46 min
- Svjetionik Split
- Beach Camp Stobrec
- Plaža Kava Slatine
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On day 6 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 Split and Stobreč. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lika-Senj County, where you will stay for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Split, featuring a romantic, a mesmerizing, a visually striking, a standout, a profound, and an idyllic. Start at Split Breakwater Lighthouse, an increasingly popular lighthouse in the city. Then, head to Church Of Our Lady Of Prizidnice and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking church.
There are many interesting places to see in Split and when you are ready for more, go to Kava Beach. This is one of the city’s most worthwhile spots.
Set your GPS to Stobreč and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Stobreč beckons with new experiences!
Make your way to Beach Stobrec, a worthwhile campground that draws attention for its stunning features.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Lika-Senj County, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Lika-Senj County. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely meal at The Highlanders pub, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Kavana Milinković is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Lika-Senj County tonight.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Caffe Bar Fortuna is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Caffe Bar Amadeus, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Caffe Bar Bevanda. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Croatia.
Day 7 – Lika-Senj County, Smiljan, Perušić, Korenica, and Zadar
- Lika-Senj
- Smiljan
- Perušić
- Korenica
- Zadar
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Drive 241 km, 3 hours 47 min
- Nikola Tesla Memorial Center
- Grabovača
- Plitvice Lakes National Park
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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Smiljan, Perušić, and Korenica, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Zadar. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
When you’ve had your share of Lika-Senj County, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Smiljan. Your travel time is around 8 min.
Spend your afternoon discovering Nikola Tesla Memorial Center, a beloved museum known for its history-steeped features.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Smiljan, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Perušić may take around 21 min. Upon your arrival in Perušić, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Grabovača. Spend some time admiring the peaceful features of the cave system before you continue to your next stop.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Korenica, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Perušić to Korenica may take around 1 hour 4 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Korenica, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Plitvice Lakes National Park is an iconic national park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its UNESCO world heritage-designated features before continuing your self-guided tour.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Zadar. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Zadar's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Roko, a top-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Harbor CookHouse & Club, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran Urnebes. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Garden Lounge after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Down Town for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Beach Bar Bamboo 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!
Day 8 – Zadar - departure day
- Zadar - Departure day
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- Queen Jelena Madijevka Park
- Sea organ
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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.
Maximize your last day in Croatia and go on a shopping spree in Zadar’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Croatia.
A blend of a romantic, a scenic, an awe-inspiring, and a picture-perfect await you in Zadar on today’s itinerary. First up is the locally appreciated park, Queen Jelena Madijevka Park. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit.
Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Zadar.
Enjoy a lovely meal at GRICKO, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Konoba Rafaelo is another top choice with a popular 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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