6-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zagreb to Split and Zadar
Description
Included
Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Croatia as you embark on an unforgettable 6-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Zagreb, Plitvica Selo, Split, Trogir, Šibenik, Zadar, Karlovac County, and Rastoke.
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 Zagreb, 2 nights in Split, and 1 night in Zadar. 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 Zagreb, 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 Krka National Park, learn more about the unique Ban Josip Jelačić Statue, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Marjan.
As you hit the open road and drive through Zagreb, Plitvica Selo, Split, Trogir, Šibenik, Zadar, Karlovac County, and Rastoke, 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!
Travel details
Set your travel details to find the best price
Flights
Compare and choose from the best flights to Zagreb
Car
Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Zagreb - Arrival day
- More
- Lower Town (Donji Grad)
- More
Welcome to Zagreb, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Croatia! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Zagreb's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Zagreb 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 Lower Town (Donji Grad), a must-see neighborhood, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Zagreb. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
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 Zagreb, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Zinfandel's Restaurant, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Esplanade Zagreb Hotel offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Rougemarin City is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Zagreb.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Tesla New Generation, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Destino offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Booze And Blues provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Croatia!
Day 2
- Zagreb
- Split
- More
Drive 406 km, 5 hours 22 min
- Great Waterfall
- Golden Gate
- Diocletian's Palace
- More
On day 2 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 Plitvica Selo and Split. In the evening, you’ll end up in Split, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming village of Zagreb. Your adventure starts at Great Waterfall, a locally appreciated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Golden Gate. This often recommended historical landmark is known for its romantic appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Zagreb's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Diocletian's Palace. This romantic palace offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Split. Split offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Split's best restaurants.
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.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, La Linea offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Split. Fabrique Pub is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
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 3
- Split
- More
Drive 67 km, 1 hour 53 min
- Forest Park Marjan
- Trogir Old Town
- Riva
- Kamerlengo Castle
- Bacvice
- More
On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Split, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Bacvice is a fantastic place you can explore today in Split. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Split-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. 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. Marjan is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this eye-catching park before continuing your journey. Trogir Old Town is your next stop. This increasingly popular historical landmark 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 Promenade. This enchanting boardwalk is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Kamerlengo Castle.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Split and your accommodation.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Split. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Savor the flavors at Babylon, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, DeListes restaurant Split beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bokeria Kitchen & Wine. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Split tonight.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Caffe Bar Mythos. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Caffe Bar Legis, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Caffe Bar Tik provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!
Day 4
- Split
- Zadar
- More
Drive 217 km, 3 hours 14 min
- St. Jacob’s Cathedral
- Šibenik City Museum
- Krka National Park
- Sea organ
- The Greeting to the Sun
- More
On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Šibenik and Zadar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zadar, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Split. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Šibenik Cathedral is the perfect place to start. This church is one of the most locally appreciated places to visit in Split. Next, head to Šibenik City Museum, a locally appreciated museum, known for its photogenic features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Krka National Park. This peaceful national park is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Sea Organ and Monument To The Sun. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
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.
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.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Yachting Bar & Club after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Caffe Bar Porthos, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Factory Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!
Day 5
- Zadar
- Zagreb
- More
Drive 413 km, 5 hours 22 min
- Archaeological Museum Zadar
- Church of St. Donatus
- Aquatika
- Stari Mlin (Old Mill)
- More
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Zadar, Karlovac County, and Rastoke. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zagreb. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Zadar, including a museum, a church, an aquarium, a historical landmark and much more! Start your day at Archaeological Museum Zadar. This heritage-rich museum is an intriguing place to see in Zadar. Then, wander over to Church Of St. Donatus. If culturally significant sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Aquatika. This visually striking aquarium is a favorite among visitors.
Zadar offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Stari Mlin (old Mill) is an intriguing spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Zagreb. 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 Zagreb. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Restoran Taurus, an iconic dining spot in Zagreb. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Trilogija - Vino & Kuhinja, a popular restaurant in Zagreb. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Pizzeria Park, a hidden gem nestled in Zagreb. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Krolo, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Kavana Corso is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Valhalla Beer Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!
Day 6
- Zagreb - Departure day
- More
- Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
- More
Day 6 of your road trip in Croatia is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Zagreb 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 Ban Josip Jelačić Statue. This popular monument is a popular place to see in the city.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Take a break with a cup of coffee or tea while savoring the local vibe in a coffee shop.
Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Zagreb.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Štruk, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Zagreb. 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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Croatia
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.