7-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar to Šibenik, Split, and Lika-Senj County and surrounding area
Description
Included
Description
Explore the best of Croatia on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Zadar, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Grad Benkovac, Šibenik, Dubrava kod Šibenika, Split, Lika-Senj County, Smiljan, and Senj. This road trip itinerary in Croatia seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
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 Zadar, 1 night in Šibenik, 1 night in Split, and 1 night in Lika-Senj County. 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 Marjan, 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, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Grad Benkovac, Šibenik, Dubrava kod Šibenika, Split, Lika-Senj County, Smiljan, and Senj, 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 2 nights 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.
Find your way to your hotel in Zadar. 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 Zadar, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Pizzeria Šime, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Harvatski restorant "Galiya" offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restoran Zadar - Jadera is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Zadar.
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 a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Croatia!
Day 2
- Zadar
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Drive 4 km, 30 min
- Sea organ
- Roman Forum
- Church of St. Donatus
- People's Square
- Market Zadar
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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.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming city of Zadar. Your adventure starts at Sea Organ, a top-rated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Roman Forum. This worthwhile archeological site is known for its awe-inspiring 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 Church Of St. Donatus. This culturally significant church offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Narodni Trg is also worth visiting, along with Market Zadar. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.
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.
Visit City Galleria in Zadar for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique boutiques and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what City Galleria has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.
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 Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Pet Bunara Dine & Wine offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant 2Ribara. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zadar.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Pirate Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Caffe Bar Bizarre, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Backstage Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Croatia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3
- Zadar
- Šibenik
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Drive 202 km, 3 hours 30 min
- Pag Bridge
- Maslenica Bridge
- Pariževačka glavica
- Paklenica National Park
- Vidikovac, Kamenjak
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 5 stops and experience some of the highlights of Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Rupine, Parići, and Grad Benkovac. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Šibenik, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Zadar. Begin your sightseeing with Paški Most. This underrated road bridge is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Maslenica Bridge, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Zadar, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Pariževačka Glavica. This underrated cliff is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Paklenica National Park, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Vidikovac, Kamenjak is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Šibenik. Šibenik 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 Šibenik's best restaurants.
Discover the culinary delights of Šibenik by securing a reservation at Pelegrini. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. Alternatively, Fry Guy beckons with its unique menu offerings.
Continue your lively evening at Caffe Palma, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Mystic is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Azimut ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Croatia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4
- Šibenik
- Split
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Drive 110 km, 2 hours 24 min
- St Nicholas’ Fortress
- St. Jacob’s Cathedral
- St John's Fort
- Uvala Minerska bay
- Falconry center
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Šibenik and Dubrava kod Šibenika. 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 castle, a church, a beach, a bird watching area and much more! Begin your adventure at St. Nicholas’ Fortress. This is an increasingly popular castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Šibenik Cathedral, an increasingly popular church in Šibenik.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to St. John's Fort. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Uvala Minerska Bay, another of the city’s frequently visited attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Falconry Center, a picturesque place of interest in the city.
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 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Nevera Tavern, a top-rated dining destination in Split. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Perivoj restoran i kavana, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Konoba Laganini. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Split this evening.
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.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Croatia!
Day 5
- Split
- Lika-Senj
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Drive 235 km, 3 hours 7 min
- Golden Gate
- Diocletian's Palace
- West Bank
- Kašjuni Beach
- Forest Park Marjan
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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 Lika-Senj County. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Split, including a historical landmark, a palace, a boardwalk, a beach, a park and much more! Start your adventure at Golden Gate. This underrated historical landmark is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Diocletian's Palace located in Split for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of West Bank. Its visually striking features will captivate you. After the boardwalk, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Kašjuni Beach. Visitors usually appreciate the mesmerizing features of this beach. Next up is Marjan, a highly recommended park.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Lika-Senj County, 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 Lika-Senj County's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely meal at The Highlanders pub, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Kavana Milinković is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Lika-Senj County tonight.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Caffe Bar Fortuna. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Caffe Bar Amadeus, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Caffe Bar Bevanda provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
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 6
- Lika-Senj
- Zadar
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Drive 288 km, 3 hours 35 min
- Nikola Tesla Memorial Center
- Nehaj Fortress
- Sundial on the 45th parallel
- Plaža Prva Draga
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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 Smiljan and Senj. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zadar, where you will stay for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Lika-Senj County, featuring family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Start at Nikola Tesla Memorial Center, a worthwhile museum in the village. Then, head to Nehaj Fortress and soak in the ambiance of this standout castle.
There are many interesting places to see in Lika-Senj County, and when you are ready for more, go to Sundial On The 45th Parallel. This is one of the village’s most curiosity-inducing picture-perfect spots of interest. After exploring the monument, visit the up-and-coming Plaža Prva Draga.
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 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.
Dine in style at Roko, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Harbor CookHouse & Club boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restoran Urnebes. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zadar.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Garden Lounge, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Down Town, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Beach Bar Bamboo provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Head back to your accommodation in Zadar and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 7
- Zadar - Departure day
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- Queen Jelena Madijevka Park
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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 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, we recommend visiting Queen Jelena Madijevka Park, a romantic park before you head out.
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.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Konoba Rafaelo, another top spot with a tantalizing 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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