7-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zagreb to Plitvička Jezera, Zadar, and Split
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Croatia as you embark on an unforgettable 7-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Zagreb, Korenica, Plitvica Selo, Plitvička Jezera, Zadar, Split, and Trogir.
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 Zagreb, 1 night in Plitvička Jezera, 1 night 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 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. 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 Sea Organ, learn more about the unique Zagreb Zoo, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Ban Josip Jelačić Statue.
As you hit the open road and drive through Zagreb, Korenica, Plitvica Selo, Plitvička Jezera, Zadar, Split, 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
- Zagreb - Arrival day
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- Lower Town (Donji Grad)
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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 2 nights 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.
Find your way to your hotel in Zagreb. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Zinfandel's Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Esplanade Zagreb Hotel? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Rougemarin City as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick 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 7-day road trip in Croatia!
Day 2
- Zagreb
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Drive 12 km, 49 min
- Park Maksimir
- Cathedral of Zagreb
- Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
- Museum of Broken Relationships
- St. Mark's Church
- Upper Town (Gornji Grad)
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Zagreb has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Zagreb by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Upper Town (Gornji Grad) is a fantastic place you can explore today in Zagreb. 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 Zagreb-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.
Today’s agenda in Zagreb includes a park, a church, a monument, a museum and much more! Park Maksimir is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Zagreb Cathedral, a notable church, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Ban Josip Jelačić Statue, a heritage-rich monument, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Zagreb. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the intriguing Museum Of Broken Relationships. If you’re looking for more, St. Mark's Church is also a worthwhile attraction that is worthwhile a visit.
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.
Experience shopping bliss at Zagreb as you explore Centar Cvjetni. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Centar Cvjetni offers more options, including cafes, unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Zagreb. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Restoran Taurus, a top-rated dining destination in Zagreb. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Trilogija - Vino & Kuhinja, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Pizzeria Park. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zagreb this evening.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Krolo, known for its inviting atmosphere. Kavana Corso is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Valhalla Beer Bar 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
- Zagreb
- Plitvička Jezera
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Drive 161 km, 2 hours 50 min
- Plitvice Lakes National Park
- Great Waterfall
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On day 3 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 Korenica and Plitvica Selo. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plitvička Jezera, where you will stay for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Zagreb, including a national park and a waterfall. Start your day at Plitvice Lakes National Park. This eye-catching national park is a wondrous place to see in Zagreb. Then, wander over to Great Waterfall. If romantic sites excite you, this waterfall will be right up your alley.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Plitvička Jezera, 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 Plitvička Jezera's best restaurants.
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
- Plitvička Jezera
- Zadar
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Drive 146 km, 2 hours 20 min
- Sea organ
- The Greeting to the Sun
- Roman Forum
- Church of St. Donatus
- National Museum Zadar
- People's Square
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Zadar. 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 route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Sea Organ. This spectacular art installation is a remarkable place to see in Plitvička Jezera. Continue your discovery at Monument To The Sun, a noteworthy art installation with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Plitvička Jezera, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Roman Forum. This up-and-coming archeological site offers a picture-perfect encounter with Plitvička Jezera. Next, make your way to Church Of St. Donatus to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit National Museum Zadar, an up-and-coming museum that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Narodni Trg, an often recommended public square in the city. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Plitvička Jezera.
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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Zadar. 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 delicious dinner at Pizzeria Šime, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Harvatski restorant "Galiya" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restoran Zadar - Jadera. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zadar.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Yachting Bar & Club, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Porthos offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The Factory Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 5
- Zadar
- Split
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Drive 165 km, 2 hours 18 min
- Forest Park Marjan
- Diocletian's Palace
- Golden Gate
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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 - 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.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming city of Zadar. Your adventure starts at Marjan, a captivating local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Diocletian's Palace. This extraordinary palace is known for its majestic appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Zadar's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Golden Gate. This UNESCO world heritage-designated historical landmark offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Split. 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 Split. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Nevera Tavern, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Perivoj restoran i kavana beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Konoba Laganini. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Split tonight.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, La Linea offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Fabrique Pub is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!
Day 6
- Split
- Zagreb
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Drive 414 km, 4 hours 39 min
- Trogir Old Town
- Kamerlengo Castle
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Trogir. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zagreb, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Immerse yourself in Split’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Trogir Old Town. This romantic historical landmark is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the history-steeped features of Kamerlengo Castle, a must-visit castle in the town.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Zagreb, 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 Zagreb's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Roots - juice & cocktail bar, a top-rated dining spot in Zagreb. If you're in the mood for something new, try La Štruk, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Tagliata. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zagreb.
Keep the evening going at A’e Craft Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Budbar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Mr. Fogg, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Head back to your accommodation in Zagreb and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 7
- Zagreb - Departure day
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- Zagreb Zoo
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Day 7 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 Zagreb Zoo. This well-known zoo is a popular place to see in the city.
On your last day in Croatia, take time to indulge in shopping at Zagreb’s popular marketplace, Centar Cvjetni. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Wrap up your shopping with a drink and some pastries at a cozy cafe.
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 for something new, try GOSTIONICA RESTORAN PURGER, another premier location with a delectable 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!
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