5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar to Split
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through Croatia. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
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 2 nights 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 Krka National Park, learn more about the unique Church Of St. Donatus, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Šibenik Cathedral.
As you hit the open road and drive through Zadar, Split, Šibenik, Trogir, and Primošten, 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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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 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.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Zadar. 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 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.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Yachting Bar & Club is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Caffe Bar Porthos, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is The Factory Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Croatia!
Day 2
- Zadar
- Split
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Drive 160 km, 2 hours 18 min
- Church of St. Donatus
- Roman Forum
- Sea organ
- The Greeting to the Sun
- Split Ethnographic Museum
- Diocletian's Palace
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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 Zadar and Split. In the evening, you’ll end up in Split, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Today’s agenda in Zadar includes a church, an archeological site, an art installation, a museum, a palace and much more! Church Of St. Donatus is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Roman Forum, an underrated archeological site, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Sea Organ, a culturally significant art installation, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Zadar. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the beloved Monument To The Sun. If you’re looking for more, Split Ethnographic Museum is also a frequently visited attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Diocletian's Palace, a place of romantic interest 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 Split. Split offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
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.
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.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, La Linea is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Fabrique Pub is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 3
- Split
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Drive 226 km, 3 hours 24 min
- Krka National Park
- St. Jacob’s Cathedral
- St Nicholas’ Fortress
- Bacvice
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Greet day 3 of your road trip in Croatia with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Split for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Šibenik.
Make sure to visit Bacvice, a popular neighborhood in Šibenik. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.
Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Krka National Park. This astonishing national park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Šibenik Cathedral, one of the city’s best highlights.
Next, check out St. Nicholas’ Fortress, one of the most frequently visited places to see in Split. This castle is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Split and your accommodation.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Split's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Don’t miss out on dining at Babylon, a top-rated dining destination in Split. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider DeListes restaurant Split, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bokeria Kitchen & Wine. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Split this evening.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Caffe Bar Mythos, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Caffe Bar Legis is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Caffe Bar Tik is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Croatia!
Day 4
- Split
- Zadar
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Drive 193 km, 3 hours 12 min
- Trogir Old Town
- St Sebastian
- Kamerlengo Castle
- Statue of Our Lady Of Loreto
- Beach Mala Raduča
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Trogir and Primošten. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zadar, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Split. Begin your sightseeing with Trogir Old Town. This frequently visited historical landmark is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Chapel Of St. Sebastian, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Split, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Kamerlengo Castle. This often recommended castle is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Statue Of Our Lady Of Loreto, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Beach Mala Raduča is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Zadar's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
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.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Pirate Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Caffe Bar Bizarre for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Backstage Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Head back to your accommodation in Zadar and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 5
- Zadar - Departure day
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- Market Zadar
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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, begin at Market Zadar. This underrated market is a popular place to see in the city.
Maximize your last day in Croatia and go on a shopping spree in Zadar’s shopping center, the lively City Galleria. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Croatia. Discover boutiques with stylish fashion choices to upgrade your wardrobe.
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 Roko, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Harbor CookHouse & Club? 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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