Relaxed 7-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar to Zagreb
Description
Included
Description
Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 7-day road trip in Croatia with this laid-back self-drive vacation.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Croatia at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Zadar, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Grad Biograd na Moru, and Zagreb. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Zadar and 2 nights in Zagreb. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Croatia.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Croatia. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Zadar, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 7-day journey across Croatia and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Croatia with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Croatia.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Croatia. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Sea Organ. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Zagreb Zoo.
Traveling leisurely through Croatia means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Ban Josip Jelačić Statue. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Park Maksimir. Get close to the spectacular Zagreb Cathedral and the wonderful Bundek. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through Croatia's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Croatia.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Croatia. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Croatia's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Croatia.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Croatia. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 6 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 7 days of your self-drive road trip in Croatia. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 7-day vacation in Croatia and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Croatia today!
Travel details
Set your travel details to find the best price
Flights
Compare and choose from the best flights to Zadar
Car
Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Zadar - Arrival day
- More
- Kolovare Beach
- More
Your relaxed road trip through Croatia starts when you reach the incredible city of Zadar, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Zadar and begin your adventure in Croatia.
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.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Zadar. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Pizzeria Šime, an iconic dining spot in Zadar. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Harvatski restorant "Galiya", a popular restaurant in Zadar. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restoran Zadar - Jadera, a hidden gem nestled in Zadar. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Zadar and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Yachting Bar & Club, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Caffe Bar Porthos is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The Factory Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Croatia. Enjoy your first taste of Zadar as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2
- Zadar
- More
Drive 7 km, 28 min
- People's Square
- Market Zadar
- Sea organ
- Roman Forum
- Church of St. Donatus
- More
Day 2 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!
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Zadar. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Narodni Trg is the perfect place to start. This public square is one of the most increasingly popular places to visit in Zadar. Next, head to Market Zadar, a worthwhile market, known for its instagrammable features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Sea Organ. This visually striking art installation is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Roman Forum and Church Of St. Donatus. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
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!
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 Zadar.
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.
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.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Pirate Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Bizarre offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Backstage Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!
Day 3
- Zadar
- More
Drive 185 km, 3 hours 8 min
- Pag Bridge
- Maslenica Bridge
- Pariževačka glavica
- Paklenica National Park
- Plaža Soline
- More
On day 3 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Zadar and visit amazing attractions in Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Rupine, Parići, and Grad Biograd na Moru 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 Pariževačka Glavica, one of the town’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the increasingly popular Paklenica National Park. When you're finished at the national park, Plaža Soline awaits your visit. This beach is an awe-inspiring highlight on today's itinerary.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Zadar and your accommodation.
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.
Experience the amazing nightlife in Zadar and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Garden Lounge after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Down Town for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Beach Bar Bamboo is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
A leisurely self-drive holiday in Općina Ražanac can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Croatia!
Day 4
- Zadar
- Zagreb
- More
Drive 301 km, 3 hours 16 min
- Museum of Broken Relationships
- St. Mark's Church
- Lotrščak Tower
- Stone Gate
- More
Day 4 of your self-drive tour in Croatia is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Zagreb for 2 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Croatia.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Zadar. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Museum Of Broken Relationships is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most underrated places to visit in Zadar. Next, head to St. Mark's Church, a worthwhile church, known for its symbolic features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Lotrščak Tower. This breathtaking historical landmark is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Stone Gate. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Zagreb in this laid-back road trip in Croatia. You'll stay here for 2 nights.
When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Zagreb, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Make sure to reserve a table at Zinfandel's Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Zagreb. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, a popular restaurant in Zagreb. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Rougemarin City, a hidden gem nestled in Zagreb. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Zagreb.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Tesla New Generation, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Caffe Bar Destino is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Booze And Blues also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!
Day 5
- Zagreb
- More
Drive 22 km, 58 min
- Zagreb Zoo
- Park Maksimir
- Nikola Tesla Technical Museum
- Bundek City Park
- More
On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia, you’ll go deep into Zagreb, where you'll stay for 1 night, 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 Zagreb, and meet locals along the way!
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Zagreb today. One of the most well-known attractions included on the itinerary is Zagreb Zoo. This photogenic zoo will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Park Maksimir and learn what makes this serene park unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the intriguing Technical Museum. After exploring the museum, head to Bundek. This locally renowned park is a highlight in Zagreb.
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.
When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Zagreb, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
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 dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Zagreb and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
Keep the evening going at Krolo, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Kavana Corso, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Valhalla Beer Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Croatia!
Day 6
- Zagreb
- Zadar
- More
Drive 300 km, 3 hours 11 min
- Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
- Ribnjak Park
- Cathedral of Zagreb
- Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb
- Botanical Garden of the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb
- More
Day 6 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Croatia gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Zagreb. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Zadar, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.
Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Ban Josip Jelačić Statue. This captivating monument is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Ribnjak Park, one of the city’s best highlights.
Next, check out Zagreb Cathedral, one of the most notable places to see in Zagreb. This church is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb. Wander around and soak in the romantic atmosphere this performing arts theater offers. Then, head to Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb, a top-rated botanical garden that adds another dimension to your day.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at GRICKO, a highly-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're eager to try something different, consider Konoba Rafaelo, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Konoba Misterija. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Zadar and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Caffe Bar Kult, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Teatro Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Sphinx. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Croatia.
Day 7
- Zadar - Departure day
- More
- Queen Jelena Madijevka Park
- More
Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in Croatia is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Zadar.
As your final day in Croatia unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Zadar's best shopping area, City Galleria. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Croatia. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Queen Jelena Madijevka Park. This frequently visited park is a popular place to see in the city.
Unwind and look back at the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Zadar or just grab something light to keep you going.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Konoba Berekin, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Zadar and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in Croatia is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Croatia
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.