Relaxed 9-Day Croatia Road Trip Starting from Zadar to Šibenik

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Discover Croatia stress-free with this 9-day relaxed road trip, winding through Zadar, Općina Jasenice, Grad Benkovac, Šibenik, Dubrava kod Šibenika, Žaborić, and Split. Enjoy a relaxing self-drive holiday through stunning landscapes and calm adventures.

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, Općina Jasenice, Grad Benkovac, Šibenik, Dubrava kod Šibenika, Žaborić, and Split. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Zadar and 4 nights in Šibenik. 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 Marjan. 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 car rental 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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Day 1

Day 1 – Zadar - arrival day

  • Zadar - Arrival day
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Your relaxed road trip through Croatia starts when you reach the incredible city of Zadar, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Zadar and begin your adventure in Croatia.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Kolovare Beach. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 6,257 visitors.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Zadar. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

Make sure to book a table at Pizzeria Šime, 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 Хърватски ресторант "Галия", 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 Restoran Zadar - Jadera. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Zadar tonight.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Zadar.

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

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

  • Zadar
  • More

Drive 4 km, 33 min

  • The Greeting to the Sun
  • Sea Organ
  • Roman Forum
  • Cathedral of St. Anastasia
  • Church of St. Donatus
  • More

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia, you’ll go deep into Zadar, 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 Zadar, and meet locals along the way!

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Monument to the Sun. This monument is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,859 visitors.

When you’re finished at Monument to the Sun, head to Sea organ. This one-of-a-kind tide organ is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 57,178 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Roman Forum. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,709 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Zadar Cathedral. This cathedral is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,156 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Church of St. Donatus. This famous church building is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,708 travelers.

Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular activities to choose from 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 Zadar, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Savor the flavors at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Pet Bunara Dine & Wine beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant 2Ribara. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zadar tonight.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Pirate Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of BackStage Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. The Garden Lounge likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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 3

Day 3 – Zadar

  • Zadar
  • More

Drive 2 km, 33 min

  • Market Zadar
  • People's Square
  • Duke's palace
  • The Five Wells Square
  • Queen Jelena Madijevka Park
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Day 3 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Zadar, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Croatia are extraordinary.

Make Market Zadar one of your first sightseeing stops in Zadar. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,657 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Narodni trg is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This point of interest is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,636 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Duke's palace. This museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 741 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to The Five Wells Square. A trip to this popular sightseeing destination is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 2,006 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Queen Jelena Madijevka Park. This park enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,296 local and international travelers.

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.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Zadar has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Harbor CookHouse & Club, a top-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restoran Urnebes, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Konoba Rafaelo. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

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.

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

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

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Day 4

Day 4 – Zadar, Općina Jasenice, Rupine, Parići, and Grad Benkovac

  • Šibenik
  • Maslenica
  • Grad Benkovac
  • More

Drive 202 km, 3 hours 30 min

  • Pag Bridge
  • Maslenica bridge
  • Paklenica National Park
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On day 4 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.

Zadar welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Paški most. This road bridge is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Zadar, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,392 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Rupine. This car ride takes around 8 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Maslenica Bridge. This extraordinary deck arch bridge is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 3,555 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Općina Jasenice, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Rupine may take around 8 min. Upon your arrival in Rupine, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Pariževačka glavica. This landmark is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 2,679 visitors.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Šibenik. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Šibenik by reserving a table at Pelegrini. Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. Looking for something different? Gastro Italiano offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss buffet Šimun. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Šibenik.

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

Round off your dining experience by visiting Caffe PALMA, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Mystic, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Azimut likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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 – Šibenik

  • Šibenik
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Drive 1 km, 21 min

  • St Nicholas’ Fortress
  • Aquarium Terrarium Šibenik
  • Šibenik City Museum
  • St. Jacob’s Cathedral
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Day 5 of your relaxed road trip through Croatia means 24 hours of making the best memories in Šibenik. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Šibenik!

Kick off the day at St. Nicholas’ Fortress, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,867 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Aquarium Terrarium Šibenik. Aquarium Terrarium Šibenik is a zoo with an average rating of 3.7 out of 5 stars from 1,073 reviews.

Šibenik City Museum is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 176 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Šibenik Cathedral. This cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,478 visitors.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Šibenik by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities.

Exploring the food culture in Šibenik 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Pub&wine bar Scala, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Stari Grad offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bistro Pucalina. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Šibenik.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Šibenik.

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

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

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Day 6

Day 6 – Šibenik and Dubrava kod Šibenika

  • Šibenik
  • Dubrava kod Šibenika
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Drive 20 km, 46 min

  • Falconry center
  • St John's Fort
  • More

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia, you’ll go deep into Dubrava kod Šibenika, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the village’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the village's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Dubrava kod Šibenika, and meet locals along the way!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at St. John's Fort, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 705 reviews.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Croatia more special is by joining unique tours and activities in Croatia. Dubrava kod Šibenika 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 Šibenik, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Don’t miss out on dining at Caffe bar Majstor & Margarita, a top-rated dining destination in Šibenik. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Dalmatian Ethno Village, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran No. 4. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Šibenik this evening.

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.

Continue your lively evening at Caffe bar Domald, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Coffee & Wine bar NaMaLo (Na Maloj Loži) is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Cocktail bar REBUS ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Croatia!

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Day 7

Day 7 – Šibenik and Žaborić

  • Šibenik
  • Žaborić
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Drive 42 km, 1 hour 35 min

  • St. Nicholas Fortress
  • Uvala Minerska bay
  • Plaża Žaborić
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Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Šibenik, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Croatia are extraordinary.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to St. Nicholas Fortress. This fortress is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Šibenik, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 498 visitors.

Uvala Minerska bay is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 539 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Šibenik, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available for your relaxed road trip across Croatia.

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.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Propeti Poni, an iconic dining spot in Šibenik. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of 希贝尼克更多排档, a popular restaurant in Šibenik. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bronzin, a hidden gem nestled in Šibenik. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Cap off your dinner by heading to Moderato Coffee & Cakes, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. VINO&INO is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

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

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Day 8

Day 8 – Šibenik, Split, and Zadar

  • Zadar
  • Split
  • More

Drive 261 km, 3 hours 36 min

  • Golden Gate
  • Forest Park Marjan
  • Kasjuni Beach
  • More

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Croatia will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Croatia, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Split. This car ride takes around 1 hour 5 min.

Take the opportunity to see Diocletian's Palace. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 76,537 visitors.

Golden Gate is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This memorial gates and arches has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,820 travelers.

Split is also the home of Marjan. Around 12,490 people have rated this mountain an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Kašjuni Beach. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from a total of 2,800 reviews, a visit to this beach is a great idea.

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.

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 Zadar.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Malo Misto, a top-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restoran Bruschetta, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran Konoba Martinac. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

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.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Sphinx, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Deja Brew Pub Zadar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Allegro caffe & lounge bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

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Day 9

Day 9 – Zadar - departure day

  • Zadar - Departure day
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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.

On your last day in Croatia, take time to indulge in shopping at Zadar’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Croatia. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Croatia forever.

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 Port Authority Zadar. This point of interest and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,341 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 in the mood to try something new, consider Proto Food&More, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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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