Relaxed 12-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Split to Zadar and Šibenik

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia, you’ll go deep into Split, where you'll stay for 3 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 an exciting day in Split. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a boardwalk, an archeological site, a monument, a palace, a historical landmark and much more! Begin your adventure at West Bank. This is a worthwhile boardwalk you should not miss. Another must-see is Diocletian's Cellars, a locally appreciated archeological site in Split.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Saint Domnius Bell Tower. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Diocletian's Palace, another of the city’s astonishing attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Golden Gate, an UNESCO world heritage-listed place of interest in the city.

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.

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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Šug in Split by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Šug delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious regional cuisine. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try DeListes restaurant Split? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Split. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Caffe Bar Mythos, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Legis offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Caffe Bar Tik provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia, you’ll go deep into Zadar, where you'll stay for 3 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!

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Zadar today. One of the most often recommended attractions included on the itinerary is Monument To The Sun. This visually striking art installation will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Sea Organ and learn what makes this awe-inspiring art installation unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the worthwhile Roman Forum. After exploring the archeological site, head to Church Of St. Donatus. This frequently visited church is a highlight in Zadar. As your day continues, stop by Zadar Cathedral, known for its historic features.

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 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 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.

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 city.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Pirate Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Caffe Bar Bizarre, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Backstage Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

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 increasingly popular beach is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the symbolic 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Roko, a top-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Harbor CookHouse & Club, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran Urnebes. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Garden Lounge, known for its inviting atmosphere. Down Town is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Beach Bar Bamboo 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.

On day 8 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 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.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Solana Nin Salt Museum. This up-and-coming 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 Maslenica Bridge. Next, make your way to Pariževačka Glavica to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Paklenica National Park, an often recommended national park 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.

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

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

Dine in style at GRICKO, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Konoba Rafaelo boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Konoba Misterija. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zadar.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Zadar. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Caffe Bar Kult, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Teatro Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Zadar. Sphinx is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip across Croatia promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the town of Grad Skradin and drive in the direction of the village of Primošten for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Šibenik, where you’ll stay for 2 nights.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Zadar, including a national park, a waterfall, a beach, a monument and much more! Start your day at Krka National Park. This romantic national park is a famous place to see in Zadar. Then, wander over to Skradinski Buk. If UNESCO world heritage-listed sites excite you, this waterfall will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Beach Mala Raduča. This stunning beach is a favorite among visitors.

Zadar offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Statue Of Our Lady Of Loreto is a locally appreciated spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Šibenik 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 Šibenik, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Šibenik by reserving a table at Pelegrini. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Fry Guy, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Caffe Palma, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Mystic provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Azimut offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Day 10 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Šibenik, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Croatia are extraordinary.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Šibenik on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Šibenik Cathedral is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this inviting church before continuing your journey. Šibenik City Museum is your next stop. This worthwhile museum is one of the best-rated sights in Šibenik.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Aquarium Terrarium Šibenik. This instagrammable aquarium is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit St. Nicholas’ Fortress.

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

Exploring the food culture in Šibenik 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Gastro Italiano, an iconic dining spot in Šibenik. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of buffet Šimun, a popular restaurant in Šibenik. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Pub&wine bar Scala, a hidden gem nestled in Šibenik. 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 Šibenik.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Caffe Bar Garage, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Vintage Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Moby Dick Caffe Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Croatia. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Croatia tomorrow with new energy.

Day 11 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 town of Makarska. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Split, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Šibenik covers several incredible sights, including a park and a church. Start your adventure at St. Peter Forest Park. This increasingly popular park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the romantic wonders of Osejava Forest Park, a must-see park in the town.

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 Vepric - Shrine Of Our Lady Of Lourdes. This frequently visited church offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at PORTOFINO Steak - Pasta - Seafood, an iconic dining spot in Split. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Art Gallery Cafe Music Bar Split, a popular restaurant in Split. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Duje, a hidden gem nestled in Split. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Leopolds Craft Beer Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Leopold's Delicatessen Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Moon Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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