4-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar to Split
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Explore the best of Croatia on a 4-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Zadar, Plitvica Selo, Split, Šibenik, and Trogir. 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 2 nights in Zadar and 1 night in Split. 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 Church Of St. Donatus, learn more about the unique Šibenik Cathedral, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Market Zadar.
As you hit the open road and drive through Zadar, Plitvica Selo, Split, Šibenik, and Trogir, 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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- Church of St. Donatus
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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 1 night 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 Church Of St. Donatus, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Zadar. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
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.
Dine in style at Pizzeria Šime, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Harvatski restorant "Galiya" boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restoran Zadar - Jadera. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zadar.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Yachting Bar & Club stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Porthos offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The Factory Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 4-day road trip in Croatia!
Day 2
- Zadar
- Split
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Drive 431 km, 5 hours 26 min
- Sea organ
- The Greeting to the Sun
- Great Waterfall
- Diocletian's Palace
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Zadar, Plitvica Selo, and Split. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Split. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s agenda in Zadar includes an art installation, a waterfall, and a palace. Sea Organ is must-visit art installation and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Monument To The Sun, an increasingly popular art installation, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Great Waterfall, a peaceful waterfall, also available for your discovery today.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Split, 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 Split's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to reserve a table at Nevera Tavern, an iconic dining spot in Split. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Perivoj restoran i kavana, a popular restaurant in Split. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Konoba Laganini, a hidden gem nestled in Split. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to La Linea. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Fabrique Pub, another top-rated place in the area.
Head back to your accommodation in Split and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 3
- Split
- Zadar
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Drive 266 km, 3 hours 45 min
- St. Jacob’s Cathedral
- Šibenik City Museum
- Trogir Old Town
- St Sebastian
- Kamerlengo Castle
- Riva
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Šibenik and Trogir. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zadar, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Split on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Šibenik Cathedral is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this symbolic church before continuing your journey. Šibenik City Museum is your next stop. This beloved museum is one of the best-rated sights in Split.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Trogir Old Town. This UNESCO world heritage-listed historical landmark is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Chapel Of St. Sebastian and Kamerlengo Castle. If time allows, end your day with Trogir Promenade, a stunning boardwalk that offers a memorable conclusion to your exploration.
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.
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.
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.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Pirate Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Caffe Bar Bizarre, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Backstage Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Croatia.
Day 4
- Zadar - Departure day
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- Market Zadar
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Day 4 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, begin at Market Zadar. This worthwhile market is a popular place to see in the city.
As your final day in Croatia unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Zadar's best shopping area, City Galleria. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Croatia. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home.
Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Zadar.
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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