One-Week Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Split to Dubrovnik, Šibenik, Zagreb, and Zadar and surrounding area
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through Croatia. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Croatia takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Split, 2 nights in Dubrovnik, 1 night in Šibenik, 1 night in Zagreb, and 1 night in Zadar. 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 Split, 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 Krka National Park, 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 Split, Dubrovnik, Bosanka, Trsteno, Šibenik, Zagreb, Zadar, Bogatić, Grad Skradin, and Primošten, 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
- Split - Arrival day
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- Forest Park Marjan
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Welcome to Split, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Croatia! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Split's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Split 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 Marjan, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Split. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
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 Split, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
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.
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.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Croatia!
Day 2
- Split
- Dubrovnik
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Drive 250 km, 3 hours 53 min
- Diocletian's Palace
- Golden Gate
- Mestrovic Gallery
- Kašjuni Beach
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 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 Dubrovnik, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Split. Begin your sightseeing with Diocletian's Palace. This impressive palace is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Golden Gate, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Split, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Mestrovic Gallery. This intriguing art gallery is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Kašjuni Beach, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Dubrovnik, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Dubrovnik. 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 Lucin Kantun Dubrovnik, a highly-rated dining destination in Dubrovnik. If you're eager to try something different, consider Portun, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at TuttoBene Pizzeria & Fast Food. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Dubrovnik this evening.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Promenada after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Sports Pub Mario for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Caffe-bar Van is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Croatia!
Day 3
- Dubrovnik
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Drive 8 km, 26 min
- The Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary
- Rector's Palace, Dubrovnik
- Sponza Palace
- Porat Dubrovnik
- Dubrovnik Cable Car
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Day 3 of your road trip across Croatia promises a magnificent time exploring Bosanka. You have 1 night left in Dubrovnik. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
The Cathedral Of The Assumption Of The Virgin Mary is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Rector's Palace, Dubrovnik, a curiosity-inducing palace, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Sponza Palace, a picture-perfect palace, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Dubrovnik. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the worthwhile Porat Dubrovnik. If you’re looking for more, Dubrovnik Cable Car 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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Dubrovnik's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Taverna Loggia, a top-rated dining destination in Dubrovnik. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Maskeron, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Magellan, Restaurant & Caffe Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dubrovnik this evening.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Caffe & Night Bar Amor, known for its lively atmosphere. Celtic Bar Belfast Dubrovnik is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Seven Sins offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!
Day 4
- Dubrovnik
- Šibenik
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Drive 291 km, 3 hours 37 min
- Forest Park Velika and Mala Petka
- Onofrio's Large Fountain
- Fort Lovrijenac
- Trsteno Arboretum
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On day 4 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 Dubrovnik and Trsteno. In the evening, you’ll end up in Šibenik, where you will stay for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Dubrovnik today. One of the most often recommended attractions included on the itinerary is Velika And Mala Petka Forest Park. This mesmerizing park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Onofrio Fountain and learn what makes this photogenic monument unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the worthwhile Lovrijenac. After exploring the castle, head to Trsteno Arboretum. This increasingly popular botanical garden is a highlight in Dubrovnik.
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.
Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Šibenik by booking a table at Pelegrini. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Fry Guy, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Caffe Palma, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Mystic offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Šibenik. Azimut is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Head back to your accommodation in Šibenik and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 5
- Šibenik
- Zagreb
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Drive 350 km, 3 hours 40 min
- Bundek City Park
- Zagreb Zoo
- Park Maksimir
- Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Zagreb. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zagreb, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Get ready for an exciting day in Šibenik. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a park, a zoo, and a monument. Begin your adventure at Bundek. This is a captivating park you should not miss. Another must-see is Zagreb Zoo, a notable zoo in Šibenik.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Park Maksimir. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Ban Josip Jelačić Statue, another of the city’s popular attractions.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Zagreb. 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 Zagreb. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Zinfandel's Restaurant, a top-rated dining spot in Zagreb. If you're in the mood for something new, try Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Rougemarin City. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zagreb.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Tesla New Generation offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Caffe Bar Destino is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Booze And Blues is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Croatia.
Day 6
- Zagreb
- Zadar
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Drive 290 km, 3 hours 17 min
- Market Zadar
- The Greeting to the Sun
- Sea organ
- Church of St. Donatus
- People's Square
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Zadar. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zadar. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Zagreb, including a market, an art installation, a church, a public square and much more! Start your day with a visit to Market Zadar. This intriguing market is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Monument To The Sun, which may be one of the most awe-inspiring places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Zagreb on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Sea Organ, an extraordinary art installation in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Church Of St. Donatus and Narodni Trg.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Zadar. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Pizzeria Šime, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Harvatski restorant "Galiya" is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Zadar tonight.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Yachting Bar & Club stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Porthos offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The Factory Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Croatia.
Day 7
- Zadar
- Split
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Drive 223 km, 4 hours 18 min
- Roski waterfall
- Krka National Park
- Skradinski buk
- Plaža Velika Raduča
- Beach Mala Raduča
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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Bogatić, Grad Skradin, and Primošten, 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 Split. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Roski Waterfall. This beloved waterfall is a peaceful place to see in Zadar. Continue your discovery at Krka National Park, a mesmerizing national park with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Zadar, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Skradinski Buk. This frequently visited waterfall offers a serene encounter with Zadar. Next, make your way to Plaža Velika Raduča to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Beach Mala Raduča, an underrated beach that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Zadar.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Split. Split 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 Split's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Babylon, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, DeListes restaurant Split offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bokeria Kitchen & Wine is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Split.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Caffe Bar Mythos, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Caffe Bar Legis, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Caffe Bar Tik provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Croatia!
Day 8
- Split - Departure day
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- West Bank
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Day 8 of your road trip in Croatia is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Split 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 West Bank, a visually striking boardwalk before you head out.
On your last day in Croatia, take time to indulge in shopping at Split’s popular marketplace, Marmontova Street. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces.
Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Split.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Villa Spiza, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Kadena offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Split. 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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