Relaxed 12-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Split to Zadar and Šibenik

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia, you’ll go deep into Split, where you'll stay for 3 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!

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming city of Split. Your adventure starts at West Bank, a locally appreciated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Diocletian's Cellars. This frequently visited archeological site is known for its romantic 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 Saint Domnius Bell Tower. This grand monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Diocletian's Palace is also worth visiting, along with Golden Gate. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Croatia by joining a traveler-approved tour in Split. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Split 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 Split to find the best options for you!

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

Discover the culinary delights of Split by securing a reservation at Šug. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of regional cuisine. Alternatively, DeListes restaurant Split beckons with its unique menu offerings.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Split. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

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

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Croatia!

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia, you’ll go deep into Zadar, where you'll stay for 3 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!

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Zadar. Begin your sightseeing with Monument To The Sun. This worthwhile art installation is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Sea Organ, another must-visit attraction.

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 Roman Forum. This up-and-coming archeological site is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Church Of St. Donatus, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Zadar Cathedral is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious 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.

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 wonderful meal at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top-rated dining spot in Zadar. If you're in the mood for something new, try Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant 2Ribara. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zadar.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars 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.

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

Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Zadar, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Croatia are extraordinary.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Zadar, including a beach, a public square, a park, a market and much more! Start your day with a visit to Kolovare Beach. This up-and-coming beach is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to The Five Wells Square, which may be one of the most majestic 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 Queen Jelena Madijevka Park, an increasingly popular park in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Narodni Trg and Market 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!

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Roko, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Harbor CookHouse & Club offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restoran Urnebes is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Zadar.

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.

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

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!

On day 8 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, and Parići 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.

Begin your adventure at Solana Nin Salt Museum. This is a beloved museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Paški Most, a beloved road bridge in Zadar.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Maslenica Bridge. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Pariževačka Glavica, another of the town’s curiosity-inducing attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Paklenica National Park, an instagrammable place of interest in the town.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Zadar.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at GRICKO, 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 Konoba Rafaelo, 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 Konoba Misterija, a hidden gem nestled in Zadar. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!

Day 9 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 Primošten and the city of Šibenik. You’ll stay in Šibenik for 2 nights.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Krka National Park. This famous national park is a romantic place to see in Zadar. Continue your discovery at Skradinski Buk, a serene waterfall with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Zadar, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Beach Mala Raduča. This often recommended beach offers a mesmerizing encounter with Zadar. Next, make your way to Statue Of Our Lady Of Loreto to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Zadar.

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.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Pelegrini, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Šibenik at Fry Guy, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

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

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Caffe Palma is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Mystic, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Azimut. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!

Day 10 of your relaxed road trip through Croatia means 24 hours of making the best memories in Šibenik. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Šibenik. 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 Šibenik!

Immerse yourself in Šibenik’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Šibenik Cathedral. This UNESCO world heritage-designated church is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the photogenic features of Šibenik City Museum, a must-visit museum in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Aquarium Terrarium Šibenik, an underrated aquarium. For a change of scene, check out St. Nicholas’ Fortress, known for its visually striking features.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Croatia more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Šibenik offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

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 Šibenik.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Gastro Italiano, a top-rated dining destination in Šibenik. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider buffet Šimun, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Pub&wine bar Scala. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Šibenik this evening.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Caffe Bar Garage, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Vintage Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Moby Dick Caffe Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Šibenik 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!

On day 11 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.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at St. Peter Forest Park. This underrated park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Osejava Forest Park, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out Vepric - Shrine Of Our Lady Of Lourdes, one of the most intriguing places to see in Šibenik. This church is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

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

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 delicious dinner at PORTOFINO Steak - Pasta - Seafood, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Art Gallery Cafe Music Bar Split offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Duje. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Split.

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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Leopolds Craft Beer Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Leopold's Delicatessen Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Moon Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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