9-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar to Rijeka, Zagreb, Šibenik, and Split and surrounding area

Day 2 of your road trip across Croatia promises a magnificent time exploring Zadar. You have 1 night left in Zadar. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Zadar on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Narodni Trg is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this respected public square before continuing your journey. Market Zadar is your next stop. This frequently visited market is one of the best-rated sights in Zadar.

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 Sea Organ. This romantic art installation is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Roman Forum and Church Of St. Donatus.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Pet Bunara Dine & Wine? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurant 2Ribara as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Zadar.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Pirate Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Bizarre offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Backstage Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Smiljan and Senj. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Rijeka, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Start by visiting Nikola Tesla Memorial Center, a prime spot to begin your journey. This heritage-rich museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Nehaj Fortress, another must-visit landmark and increasingly popular castle renowned for its culturally significant features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Zadar by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Plaža Prva Draga. This romantic beach is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Zadar experience. We also recommend visiting Sundial On The 45th Parallel, a beloved monument.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Rijeka, 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 Rijeka. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Rijeka by reserving a table at Nebo by Deni Srdoč. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern and creative cuisine. Looking for something different? Restaurant Capote y Ole. Offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Rijeka.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Charlie Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Wine Bar "kod Zajca" provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001 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!

Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in Croatia. With 1 night left in Rijeka, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences. Start at the popular Aquarium Pula, a picture-perfect aquarium in Rijeka. Next, go to Forum Square.

After visiting Aquarium Pula and Forum Square, have a stroll along Rijeka's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Temple Of Augustus. This heritage-rich monument offers a unique experience. Pula Arena is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Rijeka. 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Trattoria Krug, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Zelena Dolina? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Buffet "Cocco" as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Rijeka.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Teatro Lounge Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Book Caffe Dnevni Boravak, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Pub "bačva" also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

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 1 vibrant destinations - Zagreb. 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.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Bundek. This well-known park is a romantic place to see in Rijeka. Continue your discovery at Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb, a historic performing arts theater with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Rijeka, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Zagreb Zoo. This notable zoo offers an eye-catching encounter with Rijeka. Next, make your way to Park Maksimir to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Ban Josip Jelačić Statue, a locally renowned monument 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 Rijeka.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Zagreb. Zagreb offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Zagreb's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Zinfandel's Restaurant, a highly-rated dining destination in Zagreb. If you're eager to try something different, consider Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Rougemarin City. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zagreb this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Tesla New Generation, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Caffe Bar Destino is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Booze And Blues also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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.

On day 6 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 Bogatić, Ključ, and Grad Skradin. In the evening, you’ll end up in Šibenik, where you will stay for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Zagreb today. One of the most beloved attractions included on the itinerary is Roski Waterfall. This eye-catching waterfall will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Krka National Park and learn what makes this mesmerizing national park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the increasingly popular Cikola Canyon. After exploring the canyon, head to Skradinski Buk. This locally appreciated waterfall is a highlight in Zagreb.

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.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Pelegrini in Šibenik by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Pelegrini offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're looking to mix things up, Fry Guy offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Caffe Palma, known for its lively atmosphere. Mystic is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Azimut offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Croatia.

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Šibenik and Split. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Split, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Šibenik. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a church, a castle, an art gallery, a park, a beach and much more! Begin your adventure at Šibenik Cathedral. This is a locally appreciated church you should not miss. Another must-see is St. Nicholas’ Fortress, a curiosity-inducing castle in Šibenik.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Mestrovic Gallery. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Marjan, another of the city’s captivating attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Kašjuni Beach, a mesmerizing place of interest in the city.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Nevera Tavern, a top-rated dining spot in Split. If you're in the mood for something new, try Perivoj restoran i kavana, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Konoba Laganini. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Split.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out La Linea, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Fabrique Pub provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Split, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Zadar. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences await you in Split on today’s itinerary. First up is the beloved museum, Froggyland. Afterward, continue to Diocletian's Palace, a palace every traveler should visit.

As you explore Split’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Diocletian's Cellars. This underrated archeological site is an essential stop. Following that, head to Golden Gate, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by West Bank, a frequently visited boardwalk in the city.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Zadar. Zadar offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you explore more of Zadar, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Garden Lounge. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Down Town offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Beach Bar Bamboo, another top-rated bar in the area.

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