7-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar to Šibenik, Split, and Lika-Senj County and surrounding area

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Zadar for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views await you in Zadar on today’s itinerary. First up is the famous art installation, Sea Organ. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Roman Forum. A visit to this archeological site is an enriching experience for all.

As you explore Zadar’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Church Of St. Donatus. This up-and-coming church is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to Narodni Trg, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Lastly, visit Market Zadar and learn why this market is renowned as one of the city's most locally appreciated attractions.

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.

Experience shopping bliss at Zadar as you explore City Galleria. Take a leisurely stroll through unique boutiques and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, City Galleria offers more options, including unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Pet Bunara Dine & Wine is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant 2Ribara. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Zadar tonight.

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

Relax and reminisce about your day in Croatia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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 Šibenik and Dubrava kod Šibenika. In the evening, you’ll end up in Split, where you will stay for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Šibenik, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at St. Nicholas’ Fortress, a beloved castle in the city. Then, head to Šibenik Cathedral and soak in the ambiance of this history-steeped church.

There are many interesting places to see in Šibenik and when you are ready for more, go to St. John's Fort. This is one of the city’s most underrated spots. After exploring the castle, visit the beloved Uvala Minerska Bay.

When you’ve had your share of Šibenik, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Dubrava kod Šibenika. Your travel time is around 24 min.

Falconry Center is a worthwhile bird watching area we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its majestic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Split. Split offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Nevera Tavern, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Perivoj restoran i kavana is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Konoba Laganini. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Split tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, La Linea is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Fabrique Pub is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Head back to your accommodation in Split and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Split. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lika-Senj County, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Split, including a historical landmark, a palace, a boardwalk, a beach, a park and much more! Start your day at Golden Gate. This symbolic historical landmark is an intriguing place to see in Split. Then, wander over to Diocletian's Palace. If history-steeped sites excite you, this palace will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find West Bank. This gorgeous boardwalk is a favorite among visitors.

Split offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Kašjuni Beach is an often recommended spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the beach, don’t forget to check out the romantic Marjan. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this well-known park in Split.

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

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Lika-Senj County's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at The Highlanders pub, a popular restaurant in Lika-Senj County. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Lika-Senj County at Kavana Milinković, 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 Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Lika-Senj County tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Caffe Bar Fortuna, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Caffe Bar Amadeus is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Caffe Bar Bevanda is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Say good night to Lika-Senj County and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 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 Senj. 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.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lika-Senj County and set your GPS to Smiljan. 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 8 min. Upon reaching Smiljan, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Nikola Tesla Memorial Center. Spend some time admiring the photogenic features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Senj. This car ride takes around 1 hour 15 min.

Your self-guided tour starts at Nehaj Fortress, an underrated castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Sundial On The 45th Parallel and admire its picture-perfect features. When you’re ready, continue to Plaža Prva Draga, an increasingly popular beach beloved by locals and tourists alike.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Zadar. 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 Zadar. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at Roko, a top-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Harbor CookHouse & Club, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran Urnebes. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

Keep the evening going at The Garden Lounge, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Down Town, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Beach Bar Bamboo, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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