10-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Split traveling north to Zadar and Pula
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Croatia as you embark on an unforgettable 10-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Split, Trogir, Zadar, Grad Skradin, Nin, Korenica, Plitvica Selo, Rovinj, Pula, Motovun, and Opatija.
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 Split, 4 nights in Zadar, and 2 nights in Pula. 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 Split, 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. Plitvice Lakes National Park and Diocletian's Palace are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Pula Arena, learn more about the unique Sea Organ, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Krka National Park.
As you hit the open road and drive through Split, Trogir, Zadar, Grad Skradin, Nin, Korenica, Plitvica Selo, Rovinj, Pula, Motovun, and Opatija, 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
- Split - Arrival day
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- Bacvice
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Welcome to Split, 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 Split's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Split 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 Bacvice, 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.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Split. 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 Split, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Nevera Tavern, a popular restaurant in Split. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Split at Perivoj restoran i kavana, 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 Konoba Laganini. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Split tonight.
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.
Raise a toast to the start of your 10-day road trip in Croatia!
Day 2
- Split
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Drive 17 km, 1 hour 10 min
- Golden Gate
- Diocletian's Palace
- Diocletian's Cellars
- Split viewpoint (belvedere)
- Forest Park Marjan
- Kašjuni Beach
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Split has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Split by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Split, featuring family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. Start at Golden Gate, a curiosity-inducing historical landmark in the city. Then, head to Diocletian's Palace and soak in the ambiance of this romantic palace.
There are many interesting places to see in Split, and when you are ready for more, go to Diocletian's Cellars. This is one of the city’s most increasingly popular history-steeped spots of interest. After exploring the archeological site, visit the curiosity-inducing Split Viewpoint (belvedere). Not far away, you'll also find Marjan. This park is a serene highlight in Split. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Kašjuni Beach, a worthwhile beach in the city.
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 Split's bustling shopping hub, Marmontova Street. 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, Marmontova Street offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.
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.
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.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Caffe Bar Mythos, known for its inviting atmosphere. Caffe Bar Legis is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Caffe Bar Tik provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 3
- Split
- Zadar
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Drive 161 km, 2 hours 47 min
- Trogir Old Town
- Kamerlengo Castle
- Sea organ
- The Greeting to the Sun
- Roman Forum
- Church of St. Donatus
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Trogir and Zadar. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zadar. You will spend 4 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Split. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! Trogir Old Town is the perfect place to start. This historical landmark is one of the most frequently visited places to visit in Split. Next, head to Kamerlengo Castle, an up-and-coming castle, known for its history-steeped 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 Sea Organ. This awe-inspiring art installation is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Monument To The Sun and Roman Forum. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey. Finish the day with a visit to Church Of St. Donatus, a culturally significant church in Split.
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.
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.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!
Day 4
- Zadar
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Drive 183 km, 2 hours 48 min
- Krka National Park
- Skradinski buk
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On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Zadar, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Grad Skradin. You still have 3 nights left in Zadar.
Immerse yourself in Zadar’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Krka National Park. This romantic national park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the mesmerizing features of Skradinski Buk, a must-visit waterfall in the town.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Zadar and your accommodation.
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.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top-rated dining spot in Zadar. If you're in the mood for something new, try Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant 2Ribara. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zadar.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Pirate Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Caffe Bar Bizarre is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Backstage Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Say good night to Zadar and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 5
- Zadar
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Drive 39 km, 1 hour 29 min
- Historic Town Gate
- Church of the Holy Cross
- Solana Nin Salt Museum
- Market Zadar
- People's Square
- Kolovare Beach
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On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Zadar, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. 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. Historic Town Gate is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this picture-perfect historical landmark before continuing your journey. Church Of The Holy Cross is your next stop. This worthwhile church 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 Solana Nin Salt Museum. This gorgeous museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Market Zadar and Narodni Trg. If time allows, end your day with Kolovare Beach, an eye-catching beach that offers a memorable conclusion to your exploration.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Zadar.
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.
Savor the flavors at Roko, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Harbor CookHouse & Club beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restoran Urnebes. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zadar tonight.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Garden Lounge, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Down Town is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Beach Bar Bamboo also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!
Day 6
- Zadar
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Drive 318 km, 4 hours 26 min
- Plitvice Lakes National Park
- Great Waterfall
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Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip in Croatia. With 1 night left in Zadar, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Zadar is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a national park and a waterfall. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the timeless Plitvice Lakes National Park and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Great Waterfall, an eye-catching waterfall that draws visitors from far and near.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Zadar and your accommodation.
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 GRICKO, a highly-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're eager to try something different, consider Konoba Rafaelo, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Konoba Misterija. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Caffe Bar Kult, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Teatro Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Sphinx offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!
Day 7
- Zadar
- Pula
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Drive 430 km, 4 hours 59 min
- Church of Saint Euphemia
- Park forest Zlatni Rt
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Rovinj. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Pula, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Get ready for an exciting day in Zadar. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a church and a park. Begin your adventure at Church Of St. Euphemia. This is an intriguing church you should not miss. Another must-see is Park Forest Zlatni Rt, an often recommended park in Zadar.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Pula, 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 Pula's best restaurants.
Make sure to reserve a table at Pizzeria Samantha, an iconic dining spot in Pula. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Fresh Sandwiches and Salads, a popular restaurant in Pula. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bistro Romantic Alley, a hidden gem nestled in Pula. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Beach Bar Laplaya, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Shipyard Pub, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Zeppelin - Beach & Lounge Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!
Day 8
- Pula
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Drive 143 km, 2 hours 40 min
- Pula Arena
- Fortress Kaštel / Castello
- Historical and Maritime Museum of Istria
- Forum Square
- Temple of Augustus
- Town Gate
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Pula, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Pula is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots! Start at Pula Arena, an impressive archeological site that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Pula Citadel, enchanting visitors with its culturally significant appeal. Continue your exploration at Historical And Maritime Museum Of Istria. This museum is one of the city’s most beloved spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Pula at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Forum Square. After exploring the public square, head to the captivating Temple Of Augustus. Lastly, wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Town Gate, a place of grand interest in Pula.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Pula.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Pula's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Don’t miss out on dining at Fine fast food Piantina, a top-rated dining destination in Pula. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Street Food Two, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran "Stari grad 02". With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Pula this evening.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Ulysses, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Caffe Bar "dvojka", a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bolero likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!
Day 9
- Pula
- Split
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Drive 530 km, 5 hours 53 min
- Opatija lungomare
- Maiden with the Seagull
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On day 9 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 Opatija. In the evening, you’ll end up in Split, where you will stay for 1 night.
Start your day with a visit to Opatija Lungomare. This frequently visited boardwalk is a must-visit in the town.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Split's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Villa Spiza, a top-rated dining spot in Split. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Kadena, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Konoba Kod Joze. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Split.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Ave Caffe Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Tennis Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Jadran Beach Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Say good night to Split and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 10
- Split - Departure day
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- Marmontova Street
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Day 10 of your road trip in Croatia is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Split before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Marmontova Street, a street that captures the true essence of Split. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
Maximize your last day in Croatia and go on a shopping spree in Split’s shopping center, the lively Pazar Market. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Croatia.
Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Split.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Movi, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Downtown Grill Split steak & seafood offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Split. 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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