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.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Zadar, including a public square, a market, an art installation, an archeological site, a church and much more! Start your day at Narodni Trg. This history-steeped public square is a curiosity-inducing place to see in Zadar. Then, wander over to Market Zadar. If visually striking sites excite you, this market will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Sea Organ. This detailed art installation is a favorite among visitors.

Zadar offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Roman Forum is a frequently visited spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the archeological site, don’t forget to check out the culturally significant Church Of St. Donatus. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this up-and-coming church.

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.

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.

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

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

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 - Smiljan and Senj. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Rijeka. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

A blend of fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures await you in Zadar on today’s itinerary. First up is the intriguing museum, Nikola Tesla Memorial Center. Afterward, continue to Nehaj Fortress, a castle every traveler should visit.

As you explore Zadar’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village. Next, make your way to Plaža Prva Draga. This increasingly popular beach is an essential stop. Following that, head to Sundial On The 45th Parallel, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Rijeka. 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 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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Nebo by Deni Srdoč, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern and creative menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Rijeka at Restaurant Capote y Ole. , another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Charlie Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Wine Bar "kod Zajca" is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001 offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Rijeka, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences in the charming city of Rijeka. Your adventure starts at Aquarium Pula, a well-known local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Forum Square. This often recommended public square is known for its photogenic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Rijeka's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Temple Of Augustus. This culturally significant monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Pula Arena is also worth visiting.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Rijeka and your accommodation.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Trattoria Krug, an iconic dining spot in Rijeka. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Zelena Dolina, a popular restaurant in Rijeka. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Buffet "Cocco", a hidden gem nestled in Rijeka. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the evening going at Teatro Lounge Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Book Caffe Dnevni Boravak, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Pub "bačva", which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

On day 5 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 Zagreb. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zagreb, where you will stay for 1 night.

Rijeka is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Bundek, a locally renowned park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb, enchanting visitors with its historic appeal. Continue your exploration at Zagreb Zoo. This zoo is one of the city’s most locally renowned spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Rijeka at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Park Maksimir. After exploring the park, head to the popular Ban Josip Jelačić Statue.

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.

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.

Dine in style at Zinfandel's Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Esplanade Zagreb Hotel boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Rougemarin City. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice 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.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Bogatić, Ključ, and Grad Skradin, 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 Šibenik. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Zagreb, including a waterfall, a national park, and a canyon. Start your adventure at Roski Waterfall. This frequently visited waterfall is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Krka National Park located in Zagreb for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Cikola Canyon. Its eye-catching features will captivate you. After the canyon, continue your tour of the village with a visit to Skradinski Buk. Visitors usually appreciate the idyllic features of this waterfall.

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.

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

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Caffe Palma offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Mystic is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Azimut is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Head back to your accommodation in Šibenik and get some rest in preparation for another magical day 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 a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming city of Šibenik. Your adventure starts at Šibenik Cathedral, a frequently visited local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is St. Nicholas’ Fortress. This worthwhile castle is known for its enchanting appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Šibenik's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Mestrovic Gallery. This stunning art gallery offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Marjan is also worth visiting, along with Kašjuni Beach. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Nevera Tavern, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Perivoj restoran i kavana? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Konoba Laganini as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Split.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, La Linea is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Fabrique Pub also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Split. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zadar, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and romantic experiences. Start at the underrated Froggyland, a picture-perfect museum in Split. Next, go to Diocletian's Palace.

After visiting Froggyland and Diocletian's Palace, have a stroll along Split's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Diocletian's Cellars. This UNESCO world heritage-listed archeological site offers a unique experience. Golden Gate is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to West Bank, one of the most romantic places to visit in Split.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Zadar, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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 highly-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're eager to try something different, consider Harbor CookHouse & Club, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran Urnebes. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Garden Lounge, known for its inviting atmosphere. Down Town is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Beach Bar Bamboo provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Croatia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!