Relaxed 9-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar to Split

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Description

Experience Croatia like never before on this 9-day relaxed road trip, traversing through Zadar, Nin, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Šibenik, Split, Grad Skradin, and Bogatić. This self-drive vacation offers a tranquil journey through the heart-stopping beauty found in Croatia.

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 Zadar, Nin, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Šibenik, Split, Grad Skradin, and Bogatić. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 5 nights in Zadar and 3 nights in Split. 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 Zadar, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 9-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 8 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 9 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 9-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
Kolovare Beach
Church of the Sacred Heart of JesusMarket ZadarPeople's SquareThe Greeting to the SunSea organ
Arsenal Zadar MSCathedral of St. AnastasiaChurch of St. DonatusRoman ForumRiva ZadarSea organ
Solana Nin Salt MuseumPag BridgeMaslenica BridgeSea organ
St. Jacob’s CathedralŠibenik City MuseumAquarium Terrarium ŠibenikSt Nicholas’ FortressSea organ
FroggylandGolden GateDiocletian's PalaceDiocletian's Cellars

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Zadar - Arrival day
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  • Kolovare Beach
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Your relaxed road trip through Croatia starts when you reach the incredible city of Zadar, where you'll stay for 4 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Zadar and begin your adventure in Croatia.

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.

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 Zadar.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Pizzeria Šime, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Harvatski restorant "Galiya" is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Zadar tonight.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Zadar and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Yachting Bar & Club. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Caffe Bar Porthos, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The Factory Bar 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 Zadar as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Zadar
  • More

Drive 4 km, 37 min

  • Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
  • Market Zadar
  • People's Square
  • The Greeting to the Sun
  • Sea organ
  • More

Day 2 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 for a day filled with an instagrammable, a historically significant, a stunning, a charming, a stunning, a noteworthy, and a symbolic in the charming city of Zadar. Your adventure starts at Church Of The Sacred Heart Of Jesus, an up-and-coming local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Market Zadar. This underrated market is known for its history-steeped appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Zadar's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Narodni Trg. This romantic public square offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Monument To The Sun is also worth visiting, along with Sea Organ. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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.

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.

Make sure to book a table at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a popular restaurant in Zadar. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zadar at Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Restaurant 2Ribara. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Zadar tonight.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Zadar. The bars in Zadar make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

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

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Croatia!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Zadar
  • More

Drive 4 km, 37 min

  • Arsenal Zadar MS
  • Cathedral of St. Anastasia
  • Church of St. Donatus
  • Roman Forum
  • Riva Zadar
  • Sea organ
  • More

Day 3 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Zadar, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Croatia are extraordinary.

Set out on a day brimming with an eye-catching, a respected, a mesmerizing, an inviting, a culturally significant, and a charming. Start at the often recommended Arsenal Zadar Ms, a visually striking cultural center in Zadar. Next, go to Zadar Cathedral.

After visiting Arsenal Zadar Ms and Zadar Cathedral, take time to explore Zadar's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Church Of St. Donatus. This culturally significant church offers a unique experience. Roman Forum is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Riva Zadar, one of the most romantic places to visit in Zadar.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Croatia by joining a traveler-approved tour in Zadar. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Zadar that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Croatia more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Zadar to find the best options for you!

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Roko, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Harbor CookHouse & Club is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restoran Urnebes. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Zadar tonight.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Zadar and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Garden Lounge, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Down Town is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Beach Bar Bamboo also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Zadar as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Croatia with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Croatia!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Zadar
  • Nin
  • Maslenica
  • More

Drive 156 km, 2 hours 36 min

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

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Zadar and visit amazing attractions in Nin, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Rupine, Parići, and Zadar destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Zadar. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Immerse yourself in Nin’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Zadar and set your GPS to Nin. 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 21 min. Upon reaching Nin, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Solana Nin Salt Museum, a locally appreciated museum known for its breathtaking features.

After soaking in Nin’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Općina Ražanac. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 27 min. When you arrive in Općina Ražanac, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your self-guided tour starts at Paški Most, an up-and-coming road bridge that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Općina Jasenice. This drive usually takes around 24 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Take your self-guided tour to Maslenica Bridge, a beloved deck arch bridge that everyone visiting Općina Jasenice should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

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

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 wonderful meal at GRICKO, a top-rated dining spot in Zadar. If you're in the mood for something new, try Konoba Rafaelo, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Konoba Misterija. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening 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.

Keep the evening going at Caffe Bar Kult, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Teatro Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Sphinx, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Zadar
  • Šibenik
  • Split
  • More

Drive 177 km, 2 hours 16 min

  • St. Jacob’s Cathedral
  • Šibenik City Museum
  • Aquarium Terrarium Šibenik
  • St Nicholas’ Fortress
  • Sea organ
  • More

On day 5 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.

Šibenik’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Zadar behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 2 min. Šibenik welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Šibenik Cathedral, an intriguing church that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Šibenik City Museum, where you can soak in the visually striking surroundings. Next, explore Aquarium Terrarium Šibenik, yet another beloved place to see in the area. After the aquarium, make time to go to St. Nicholas’ Fortress. This visually striking castle is well worthwhile the visit.

In the city of Split, 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.

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 Split, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Šug, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible regional menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Perivoj restoran i kavana is another top choice with a popular menu.

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

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to La Linea for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Fabrique Pub is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Split as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Croatia with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Croatia!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Split
  • More

Drive 1 km, 16 min

  • Froggyland
  • Golden Gate
  • Diocletian's Palace
  • Diocletian's Cellars
  • More

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia, you’ll go deep into Split, where you'll stay for 2 nights, 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!

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Split. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Froggyland is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most curiosity-inducing places to visit in Split. Next, head to Golden Gate, an increasingly popular historical landmark, known for its UNESCO world heritage-designated 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 Diocletian's Palace. This romantic palace offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Diocletian's Cellars adds its own distinct charm to your journey.

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 Split, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Babylon, a highly-rated dining destination in Split. If you're eager to try something different, consider DeListes restaurant Split, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bokeria Kitchen & Wine. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Split this evening.

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

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Caffe Bar Mythos, known for its lively atmosphere. Caffe Bar Legis is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Caffe Bar Tik offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

  • Split
  • More

Drive 21 km, 1 hour 11 min

  • Forest Park Marjan
  • Mestrovic Gallery
  • West Bank
  • Kašjuni Beach
  • Diocletian's Palace
  • More

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip through Croatia means 24 hours of making the best memories in Split. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Split. 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 Split!

Today's adventure in Split promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Marjan. This mesmerizing park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Mestrovic Gallery, another respected attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to West Bank, one of the city’s most locally appreciated attractions, known for its romantic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Kašjuni Beach. This mesmerizing beach is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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.

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.

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

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Croatia.

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

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

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Split
  • Skradin
  • Bogatić
  • Zadar
  • More

Drive 220 km, 3 hours 39 min

  • Skradinski buk
  • Krka National Park
  • Roski waterfall
  • Diocletian's Palace
  • More

Day 8 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Croatia is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Grad Skradin and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the village of Bogatić and the city of Zadar. You’ll stay in Zadar for 1 night.

After soaking in Split’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Grad Skradin. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 24 min. When you arrive in Grad Skradin, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make your way to Skradinski Buk, a beloved waterfall that draws attention for its serene features.

Take your self-guided tour to Krka National Park, a famous national park that everyone visiting Grad Skradin should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

After soaking in Bogatić’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Zadar. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 5 min. When you arrive in Zadar, it's time to take a break from the road.

Roski Waterfall is a curiosity-inducing waterfall we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its idyllic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Zadar in this laid-back road trip in Croatia. You'll stay here for 1 night.

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.

Make sure to book a table at Buffet Kod Stipe, a popular restaurant in Zadar. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zadar at Konoba Berekin, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Restaurant Mijo. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Zadar tonight.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Zadar and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Deja Brew Pub Zadar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Allegro Caffe & Lounge Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Back Door likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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 9

Day 9

  • Zadar - Departure day
  • More
  • Queen Jelena Madijevka Park
  • Sea organ
  • More

Day 9 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 Zadar.

Make the most of your final day in Croatia by visiting Zadar’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience 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.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Zadar is the remarkable Queen Jelena Madijevka Park. This park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,314 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 9 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Zadar or just grab something light to keep you going.

If you're eager to try something different, consider Restoran Bruschetta, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Zadar and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 9-day relaxed road trip in Croatia is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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