Relaxed 9-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Split to Zadar

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Croatia means 24 hours of making the best memories in Split. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Split. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Split!

Immerse yourself in Split’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Golden Gate. This heritage-rich historical landmark is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the symbolic features of Diocletian's Palace, a must-visit palace in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Saint Domnius Bell Tower, an increasingly popular monument. For a change of scene, check out Diocletian's Cellars, known for its UNESCO world heritage-listed features. We also recommend visiting West Bank. This boardwalk is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

Croatia makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Croatia also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Exploring the food culture in Split offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Šug in Split by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Šug offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious regional menu. If you're looking to mix things up, DeListes restaurant Split offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Split’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Croatia.

Keep the evening going at Caffe Bar Mythos, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Caffe Bar Legis, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Caffe Bar Tik, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Croatia!

Day 3 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Split, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Croatia are extraordinary.

A visit to Bacvice in Split is a must on the agenda today. This neighborhood is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Split Breakwater Lighthouse. This increasingly popular lighthouse is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Marjan, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Mestrovic Gallery, one of the most increasingly popular places to see in Split. This art gallery is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Kašjuni Beach. Wander around and soak in the majestic atmosphere this beach offers.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Croatia more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Split offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

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.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Croatia, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Split.

Make sure to reserve a table at Villa Spiza, an iconic dining spot in Split. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Kadena, a popular restaurant in Split. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Konoba Kod Joze, a hidden gem nestled in Split. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Ave Caffe Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Tennis Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Jadran Beach Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Croatia!

Day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Croatia is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. You’ll stay in Zadar for 4 nights.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Split today. One of the most increasingly popular attractions included on the itinerary is Šibenik Cathedral. This history-steeped church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Šibenik City Museum and learn what makes this heritage-rich museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the frequently visited Aquarium Terrarium Šibenik. After exploring the aquarium, head to St. Nicholas’ Fortress. This frequently visited castle is a highlight in Split.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Croatia at Zadar. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Zadar has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

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.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Zadar’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Croatia.

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

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Croatia!

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia, you’ll go deep into Zadar, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Zadar, and meet locals along the way!

Today's adventure in Zadar promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Zadar Cathedral. This monumental church is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Church Of St. Donatus, another culturally significant attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Roman Forum, one of the city’s most increasingly popular attractions, known for its culturally significant features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Sea Organ. This culturally significant art installation is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Monument To The Sun, an often recommended art installation, and take a stroll around the area.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Croatia by joining a traveler-approved tour in Zadar. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Zadar that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Croatia more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Zadar to find the best options for you!

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Croatia. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Zadar, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Dine in style at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Pet Bunara Dine & Wine boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurant 2Ribara. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zadar.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Zadar.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Pirate Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Caffe Bar Bizarre offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Backstage Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through Croatia means 24 hours of making the best memories in Zadar. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Zadar. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Zadar!

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Zadar, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Kolovare Beach, a locally appreciated beach in the city. Then, head to The Five Wells Square and soak in the ambiance of this romantic public square.

There are many interesting places to see in Zadar, and when you are ready for more, go to Queen Jelena Madijevka Park. This is one of the city’s most frequently visited serene spots of interest. After exploring the park, visit the up-and-coming Narodni Trg. Not far away, you'll also find Market Zadar. This market is a photogenic highlight in Zadar.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Croatia. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Croatia and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Roko, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Harbor CookHouse & Club offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restoran Urnebes. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zadar.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Zadar and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Garden Lounge is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Down Town, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Beach Bar Bamboo. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Croatia.

On day 7 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Zadar and visit amazing attractions in Nin, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Rupine, and Parići destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Zadar. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Continue your journey to Maslenica Bridge, one of the town’s most curiosity-inducing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the up-and-coming Pariževačka Glavica. When you're finished at the cliff, Paklenica National Park awaits your visit. This national park is an enchanting highlight on today's itinerary.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Zadar.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Zadar has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Dine in style at GRICKO, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Konoba Rafaelo boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Konoba Misterija. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zadar.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Zadar. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Caffe Bar Kult, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Teatro Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Sphinx is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Croatia!