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

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia, you’ll go deep into Split, where you'll stay for 2 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 Split, and meet locals along the way!

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites in the charming city of Split. Your adventure starts at Golden Gate, an intriguing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Diocletian's Palace. This spectacular palace is known for its heritage-rich appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Split's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Saint Domnius Bell Tower. This visually striking monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Diocletian's Cellars is also worth visiting, along with West Bank. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Croatia by joining a traveler-approved tour in Split. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Split 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 Split to find the best options for you!

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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Split by securing a reservation at Šug. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of regional cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, DeListes restaurant Split boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Split.

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

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

Day 3 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!

Bacvice is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in Split. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Split, including a lighthouse, a park, an art gallery, a beach and much more! Start your day at Split Breakwater Lighthouse. This visually striking lighthouse is an often recommended place to see in Split. Then, wander over to Marjan. If romantic sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Mestrovic Gallery. This picture-perfect art gallery is a favorite among visitors.

Split offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Kašjuni Beach is an intriguing spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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.

Visit Marmontova Street in Split for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique boutiques and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Marmontova Street has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Villa Spiza, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Kadena? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Konoba Kod Joze as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Split.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Split. The bars in Split make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Ave Caffe Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Tennis Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Jadran Beach Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Croatia will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Croatia, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Get ready for an exciting day in Split. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a church, a museum, an aquarium, a castle and much more! Begin your adventure at Šibenik Cathedral. This is an intriguing church you should not miss. Another must-see is Šibenik City Museum, an often recommended museum in Split.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Aquarium Terrarium Šibenik. From there, take a leisurely stroll to St. Nicholas’ Fortress, another of the city’s frequently visited attractions.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Zadar in this laid-back road trip in Croatia. You'll stay here for 4 nights.

Exploring the food culture in Zadar 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.

Dine in style at Pizzeria Šime, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Harvatski restorant "Galiya" boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restoran Zadar - Jadera. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zadar.

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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Yachting Bar & Club, known for its inviting atmosphere. Caffe Bar Porthos is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Factory Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Croatia.

Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Zadar, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Croatia are extraordinary.

Today’s itinerary in Zadar covers several incredible sights, including a church, an archeological site, and an art installation. Start your adventure at Zadar Cathedral. This increasingly popular church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the heritage-rich wonders of Church Of St. Donatus, a must-see church in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Roman Forum. This underrated archeological site offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Sea Organ, where you can take in visually striking features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Monument To The Sun. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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 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 lovely dining experience at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a popular restaurant in Zadar. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zadar at Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Restaurant 2Ribara. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zadar tonight.

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.

Continue your lively evening at Pirate Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Caffe Bar Bizarre is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Backstage Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia, you’ll go deep into Zadar, where you'll stay for 2 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!

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 curiosity-inducing beach in the city. Then, head to The Five Wells Square and soak in the ambiance of this enchanting 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 worthwhile Narodni Trg. Not far away, you'll also find Market Zadar. This market is an instagrammable highlight in Zadar.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Roko, 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 Harbor CookHouse & Club, 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 Urnebes, a hidden gem nestled in Zadar. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars 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.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Zadar can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Croatia!

On day 7 of your relaxed road trip across Croatia, you’ll explore the area around Zadar, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Zadar will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Croatia.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at the frequently visited Solana Nin Salt Museum, a picture-perfect museum in Zadar. Next, go to Paški Most.

Pariževačka Glavica is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Paklenica National Park, one of the most idyllic places to visit in Zadar.

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at GRICKO, a popular restaurant in Zadar. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zadar at Konoba Rafaelo, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Konoba Misterija. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zadar tonight.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Zadar. The bars in Zadar make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

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.

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