Relaxed 11-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Split to Zadar and Lika-Senj County

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!

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Golden Gate. This beloved historical landmark is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Diocletian's Palace, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Saint Domnius Bell Tower, one of the most frequently visited places to see in Split. This monument is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Diocletian's Cellars. Wander around and soak in the respected atmosphere this archeological site offers. Then, head to West Bank, a top-rated boardwalk that adds another dimension to your day.

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.

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 Split, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Have a memorable dining experience in Split by booking a table at Šug, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional regional menu. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of DeListes restaurant Split, a popular restaurant in Split. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Croatia.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Caffe Bar Mythos stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Legis offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Caffe Bar Tik is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

On day 6 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 3 nights 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.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in Zadar. Begin your sightseeing with Solana Nin Salt Museum. This underrated museum is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Paški Most, 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 Maslenica Bridge. This increasingly popular deck arch bridge is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Pariževačka Glavica, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Paklenica National Park is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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 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.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Zadar and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

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

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

Day 7 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!

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Zadar, including an art installation, an archeological site, and a church. Start your adventure at Monument To The Sun. This locally appreciated art installation is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Sea Organ located in Zadar for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Roman Forum. Its standout features will captivate you. After the archeological site, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Church Of St. Donatus. Visitors usually appreciate the culturally significant features of this church. Next up is Zadar Cathedral, a highly recommended church.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Roko, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Harbor CookHouse & Club? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restoran Urnebes as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Zadar.

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

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Garden Lounge, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Down Town, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Beach Bar Bamboo likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

On day 8 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia, you’ll go deep into Zadar, 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 Zadar, and meet locals along the way!

Today’s itinerary in Zadar covers several incredible sights, including a beach, a public square, a park, a market and much more! Start your adventure at Kolovare Beach. This worthwhile beach is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the romantic wonders of The Five Wells Square, a must-see public square 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 Queen Jelena Madijevka Park. This up-and-coming park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Narodni Trg, where you can take in enchanting features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Market Zadar. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at GRICKO, a top-rated dining spot in Zadar. If you're in the mood for something new, try Konoba Rafaelo, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Konoba Misterija. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening 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.

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.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Zadar as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Croatia with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Croatia!

Day 9 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Croatia is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Perušić and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the village of Smiljan and the village of Žabica. You’ll stay in Lika-Senj County for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Zadar’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Grabovača. This enchanting cave system is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the eye-catching features of Nikola Tesla Memorial Center, a must-visit museum in the village.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Jasikovac, Park Suma, a worthwhile park.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Lika-Senj County. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular town.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Highlanders pub, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Kavana Milinković? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Lika-Senj County.

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 town.

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

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