5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar traveling east to Šibenik
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Explore the best of Croatia on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Zadar, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Grad Benkovac, Šibenik, Primošten, and Grad Skradin. This road trip itinerary in Croatia seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Croatia takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Zadar and 1 night in Šibenik. 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. Sea Organ and Krka National Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Skradinski Buk, 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, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Grad Benkovac, Šibenik, Primošten, and Grad Skradin, 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!
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Day 1
- Zadar - Arrival day
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- Kolovare Beach
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Welcome to Zadar, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Croatia! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Zadar's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Pizzeria Šime, a top-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Harvatski restorant "Galiya", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Yachting Bar & Club, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Caffe Bar Porthos provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Factory Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-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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On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Zadar. You’ll stay in Zadar for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Sea Organ. This spectacular art installation is a noteworthy place to see in Zadar. Continue your discovery at Roman Forum, a historic archeological site with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Zadar, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Church Of St. Donatus. This curiosity-inducing church offers a culturally significant encounter with Zadar. Next, make your way to Narodni Trg to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Market Zadar, a frequently visited market that’s sure to impress. 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.
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.
Bring home unique finds from Zadar's bustling shopping hub, City Galleria. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique boutiques and stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, City Galleria offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.
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 dining experience at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a popular restaurant in Zadar. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zadar at Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, 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 Restaurant 2Ribara. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zadar tonight.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Pirate Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Caffe Bar Bizarre, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Backstage Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Croatia.
Day 3
- Zadar
- Šibenik
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Drive 202 km, 3 hours 30 min
- Pag Bridge
- Maslenica Bridge
- Pariževačka glavica
- Paklenica National Park
- Vidikovac, Kamenjak
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On day 3 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 Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Rupine, Parići, and Grad Benkovac. In the evening, you’ll end up in Šibenik, where you will stay for 1 night.
Start your adventure at Paški Most. This increasingly popular road bridge is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Maslenica Bridge located in Zadar for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Pariževačka Glavica. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the cliff, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Paklenica National Park. Visitors usually appreciate the peaceful features of this national park. Next up is Vidikovac, Kamenjak, a highly recommended observation deck.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Šibenik. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Šibenik's best restaurants.
Have a memorable dining experience in Šibenik by booking a table at Pelegrini, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Fry Guy, a popular restaurant in Šibenik. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Caffe Palma, known for its inviting atmosphere. Mystic is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Azimut provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Croatia!
Day 4
- Šibenik
- Zadar
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Drive 199 km, 3 hours 51 min
- Beach Mala Raduča
- Statue of Our Lady Of Loreto
- Skradinski buk
- Krka National Park
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Primošten and Grad Skradin. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zadar, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Šibenik is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a beach, a monument, a waterfall, a national park and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the intriguing Beach Mala Raduča and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Statue Of Our Lady Of Loreto, a stunning monument that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Skradinski Buk, one of the village’s most beloved spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the spectacular Krka National Park.
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.
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.
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.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Garden Lounge, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Down Town provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Beach Bar Bamboo offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Croatia.
Day 5
- Zadar - Departure day
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- Queen Jelena Madijevka Park
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Day 5 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, a mesmerizing park before you head out.
On your last day in Croatia, take time to indulge in shopping at Zadar’s popular marketplace, City Galleria. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces.
Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Zadar.
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.
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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