9-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Split traveling north to Šibenik, Zadar, Plitvička Jezera, and Opatija

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Split has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Split by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Bacvice is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in Split. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Split allows for both. Start by heading to Marjan. This well-known park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Golden Gate, a symbolic historical landmark, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Split City Museum, a beloved museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the top-rated Diocletian's Palace. Round off your day at Diocletian's Cellars, another gem in Split with eye-catching features to discover.

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.

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

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.

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

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Trogir and Šibenik. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Šibenik, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Trogir Old Town. This frequently visited historical landmark is an enchanting place to see in Split. Continue your discovery at Kamerlengo Castle, a symbolic castle with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Split, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Šibenik City Museum. This intriguing museum offers a respected encounter with Split. Next, make your way to Šibenik Cathedral to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit St. Nicholas Fortress, an often recommended castle that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Split.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Šibenik, 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 Šibenik's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Antin Gušt Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Šibenik. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Fry Guy, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Atrium. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Šibenik this evening.

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

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Zadar, 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.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Šibenik allows for both. Start by heading to Sea Organ. This astonishing art installation provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Monument To The Sun, a noteworthy art installation, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Church Of St. Donatus, an underrated church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the curiosity-inducing Archaeological Museum Zadar. Not far away from the museum, you will find the enchanting Narodni Trg, perfect for a quick visit. Round off your day at National Museum Zadar, another gem in Šibenik with history-steeped features to discover.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Zadar. Zadar offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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 delightful dinner at Pizzeria Šime, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Harvatski restorant "Galiya"? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restoran Zadar - Jadera as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Zadar.

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

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Opatija. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Opatija, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Start your day at Mala Fortica. Then, wander over to The Wall Of Fame. Nearby, you’ll also find Croatian Museum Of Tourism. This heritage-rich museum is a favorite among visitors.

Plitvička Jezera offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Maiden With The Seagull is a worthwhile spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the sculpture, don’t forget to check out the serene Slatina. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this frequently visited beach.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Bistro Yacht club, a highly-rated dining destination in Opatija. If you're eager to try something different, consider Boćarija Grill, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ružmarin. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Opatija this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Mare Cocktail Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Choco Bar - Bonbonnière Kraš offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Colosseum Lounge & Beach Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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