9-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar traveling east to Split and Lika-Senj County
Description
Included
Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Croatia as you embark on an unforgettable 9-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Zadar, Grad Benkovac, Grad Biograd na Moru, Nin, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Split, Lika-Senj County, Smiljan, and Krasno.
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, 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. Diocletian's Palace and Sea Organ are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Marjan, learn more about the unique Church Of St. Donatus, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Market Zadar.
As you hit the open road and drive through Zadar, Grad Benkovac, Grad Biograd na Moru, Nin, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Split, Lika-Senj County, Smiljan, and Krasno, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Zadar - Arrival day
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- Kolovare Beach
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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 Kolovare Beach, 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Pizzeria Šime, 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 Harvatski restorant "Galiya", 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 Restoran Zadar - Jadera, a hidden gem nestled in Zadar. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
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.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Croatia!
Day 2
- Zadar
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Drive 4 km, 30 min
- Sea organ
- Roman Forum
- Church of St. Donatus
- People's Square
- Market Zadar
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Zadar for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Zadar, including an art installation, an archeological site, a church, a public square, a market and much more! Start your day with a visit to Sea Organ. This astonishing art installation is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Roman Forum, which may be one of the most standout places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Zadar on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Church Of St. Donatus, a locally appreciated church in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Narodni Trg and Market Zadar.
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 Zadar. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Dine in style at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Pet Bunara Dine & Wine boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurant 2Ribara. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zadar.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Pirate Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Caffe Bar Bizarre is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Backstage Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Head back to your accommodation in Zadar and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 3
- Zadar
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Drive 190 km, 3 hours 34 min
- Paklenica National Park
- Vidikovac, Kamenjak
- Town of Biograd
- Plaža Dražica
- Plaža Soline
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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.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Zadar, including a national park, an observation deck, a city hall, a beach and much more! Start your day with a visit to Paklenica National Park. This intriguing national park is a must-visit in the hamlet. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Vidikovac, Kamenjak, which may be one of the most peaceful places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Zadar on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Town Of Biograd, a beloved city hall in the hamlet. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Plaža Dražica and Plaža Soline.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Zadar.
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.
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.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Garden Lounge, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Down Town. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Beach Bar Bamboo, another top-rated place in the area.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Croatia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4
- Zadar
- Split
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Drive 243 km, 3 hours 10 min
- Solana Nin Salt Museum
- Pag Bridge
- Maslenica Bridge
- Pariževačka glavica
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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 Nin, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, and Rupine. In the evening, you’ll end up in Split, where you will stay for 3 nights.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in Zadar. Begin your sightseeing with Solana Nin Salt Museum. This beloved museum is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Paški Most, another must-visit attraction that enhances the town’s allure.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Zadar, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Maslenica Bridge. This up-and-coming deck arch bridge is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Pariževačka Glavica, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Split. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Split. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Nevera Tavern, a highly-rated dining destination in Split. If you're eager to try something different, consider Perivoj restoran i kavana, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Konoba Laganini. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Split this evening.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of La Linea, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Fabrique Pub likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Croatia.
Day 5
- Split
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Drive 1 km, 18 min
- Froggyland
- Old Town Hall
- Golden Gate
- Diocletian's Palace
- Diocletian's Cellars
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Day 5 of your road trip across Croatia promises a magnificent time exploring Split. You have 2 nights left in Split. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures in the charming city of Split. Your adventure starts at Froggyland, an often recommended local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Old Town Hall. This intriguing city hall is known for its visually striking appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Split's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Golden Gate. This photogenic historical landmark offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Diocletian's Palace is also worth visiting, along with Diocletian's Cellars. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Split's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Babylon, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, DeListes restaurant Split is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bokeria Kitchen & Wine. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Split tonight.
Continue your lively evening at Caffe Bar Mythos, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Caffe Bar Legis is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Caffe Bar Tik ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Croatia.
Day 6
- Split
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Drive 10 km, 47 min
- Kašjuni Beach
- West Bank
- Split viewpoint (belvedere)
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On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Split. You’ll stay in Split for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Kašjuni Beach. This often recommended beach is a mesmerizing place to see in Split. Continue your discovery at West Bank, an awe-inspiring boardwalk with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Split, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Split Viewpoint (belvedere). This underrated observation deck offers a visually striking encounter with 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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Split's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Villa Spiza, a popular restaurant in Split. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Split at Restaurant Kadena, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Konoba Kod Joze. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Split tonight.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Ave Caffe Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Tennis Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Jadran Beach Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!
Day 7
- Split
- Lika-Senj
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Drive 236 km, 2 hours 53 min
- Archaeological Museum in Split
- Mestrovic Gallery
- Forest Park Marjan
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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Split, 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 Lika-Senj County. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Start by visiting Archaeological Museum In Split, a prime spot to begin your journey. This photogenic museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Mestrovic Gallery, another must-visit landmark and worthwhile art gallery renowned for its standout features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Split by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Marjan. This mesmerizing park is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Lika-Senj County. Lika-Senj County 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 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.
Dine in style at The Highlanders pub, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Kavana Milinković boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Lika-Senj County.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Caffe Bar Fortuna, known for its inviting atmosphere. Caffe Bar Amadeus is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Caffe Bar Bevanda provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Croatia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 8
- Lika-Senj
- Zadar
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Drive 249 km, 3 hours 25 min
- Nikola Tesla Memorial Center
- Northern Velebit National Park
- House Velebit
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Smiljan and Krasno. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zadar. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures in the charming village of Lika-Senj County. Your adventure starts at Nikola Tesla Memorial Center, a worthwhile local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Northern Velebit National Park. This frequently visited national park is known for its instagrammable appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Lika-Senj County's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Velebit House.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Zadar's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
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.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Caffe Bar Kult, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Teatro Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Zadar. Sphinx is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!
Day 9
- Zadar - Departure day
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- Queen Jelena Madijevka Park
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Day 9 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 Queen Jelena Madijevka Park, an eye-catching park before you head out.
Make the most of your final day in Croatia by visiting Zadar’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing City Galleria. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Croatia. You can also browse through boutiques for stylish fashion choices.
Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Zadar.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Konoba Berekin, another top spot with a tantalizing 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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