6-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar to Split and Lika-Senj County and surrounding area
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 6-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 3 nights in Zadar, 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 Market Zadar.
As you hit the open road and drive through Zadar, Nin, Općina Jasenice, Split, Lika-Senj County, Smiljan, Žabica, 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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Say hello to Zadar! Your exciting road trip through Croatia is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Zadar for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!
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.
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.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Yachting Bar & Club, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Caffe Bar Porthos provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Factory Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Croatia!
Day 2
- Zadar
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Drive 4 km, 30 min
- Market Zadar
- People's Square
- Church of St. Donatus
- Roman Forum
- Sea organ
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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.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and budget-friendly activities in Zadar. Begin your sightseeing with Market Zadar. This up-and-coming market is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Narodni Trg, 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 Church Of St. Donatus. This intriguing church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Roman Forum, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Sea Organ is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.
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.
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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant 2Ribara. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Pirate Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Caffe Bar Bizarre is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Backstage Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the 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 3
- Zadar
- Split
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Drive 251 km, 3 hours 22 min
- Solana Nin Salt Museum
- Maslenica Bridge
- Pariževačka glavica
- Paklenica National Park
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Nin, Općina Jasenice, Rupine, and Parići, 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, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Solana Nin Salt Museum. This frequently visited museum is a picture-perfect place to see in Zadar.
As you stroll around Zadar, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Pariževačka Glavica. This locally appreciated cliff offers a romantic encounter with Zadar. Next, make your way to Paklenica National Park to add another highlight to your day. 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.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Split. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Nevera Tavern, a highly-rated dining destination in Split. If you're eager to try something different, consider Perivoj restoran i kavana, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Konoba Laganini. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Split this evening.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. La Linea is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Fabrique Pub provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
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 4
- 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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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Split. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lika-Senj County, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. Start at the up-and-coming Golden Gate, a photogenic historical landmark in Split. Next, go to Diocletian's Palace.
After visiting Golden Gate and Diocletian's Palace, have a stroll along Split's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to West Bank. This eye-catching boardwalk offers a unique experience. Kašjuni Beach is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Marjan, one of the most majestic places to visit in Split.
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.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Lika-Senj County. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at The Highlanders pub, an iconic dining spot in Lika-Senj County. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Kavana Milinković, a popular restaurant in Lika-Senj County. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav, a hidden gem nestled in Lika-Senj County. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Caffe Bar Fortuna, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Caffe Bar Amadeus. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Caffe Bar Bevanda, another top-rated place in the area.
Head back to your accommodation in Lika-Senj County and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 5
- Lika-Senj
- Zadar
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Drive 289 km, 3 hours 36 min
- Nikola Tesla Memorial Center
- Jasikovac, Park Suma
- Nehaj Fortress
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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 Smiljan, Žabica, and Senj. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zadar, where you will stay for 1 night.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Lika-Senj County, including a museum, a park, and a castle. Start your adventure at Nikola Tesla Memorial Center. This intriguing museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Jasikovac, Park Suma located in Lika-Senj County for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Nehaj Fortress. Its culturally significant features will captivate you.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Zadar. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
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.
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.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Garden Lounge, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Down Town offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Zadar. Beach Bar Bamboo is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Croatia!
Day 6
- Zadar - Departure day
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- Queen Jelena Madijevka Park
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Day 6 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, begin at Queen Jelena Madijevka Park. This often recommended park is a popular place to see in the city.
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.
Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Zadar.
Enjoy a lovely meal at GRICKO, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Konoba Rafaelo is another top choice with a popular 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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