5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zagreb to Plitvička Jezera and Split

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-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 Zagreb, 1 night in Plitvička Jezera, and 1 night in Split. 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 Zagreb, 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. Plitvice Lakes National Park and Diocletian's Palace are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Sea Organ, learn more about the unique Ban Josip Jelačić Statue, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Marjan.

As you hit the open road and drive through Zagreb, Korenica, Plitvička Jezera, Zadar, Split, and Trogir, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Upper Town (Gornji Grad)
Stone GateSt. Mark's ChurchPlitvice Lakes National Park
Sea organThe Greeting to the SunRoman ForumChurch of St. DonatusForest Park Marjan
Golden GateDiocletian's PalaceDiocletian's CellarsTrogir Old Town
Ban Josip Jelačić Statue

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Zagreb - Arrival day
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  • Upper Town (Gornji Grad)
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Welcome to Zagreb, 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 Zagreb's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Zagreb 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 Upper Town (Gornji Grad), a must-see neighborhood, and 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 Zagreb. 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 Zagreb, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at Zinfandel's Restaurant, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Esplanade Zagreb Hotel beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Rougemarin City. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zagreb tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Tesla New Generation, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Caffe Bar Destino provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Booze And Blues offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Croatia!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Zagreb
  • Plitvička Jezera
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Drive 159 km, 2 hours 55 min

  • Stone Gate
  • St. Mark's Church
  • Plitvice Lakes National Park
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On day 2 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 Zagreb and Korenica. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plitvička Jezera, where you will stay for 1 night.

Zagreb is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and picturesque spots! Start at Stone Gate, an up-and-coming historical landmark that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find St. Mark's Church, enchanting visitors with its grand appeal. Continue your exploration at Plitvice Lakes National Park. This national park is one of the city’s most globally renowned spots.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Plitvička Jezera. Plitvička Jezera 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 Plitvička Jezera's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Croatia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Plitvička Jezera
  • Split
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Drive 312 km, 4 hours 16 min

  • Sea organ
  • The Greeting to the Sun
  • Roman Forum
  • Church of St. Donatus
  • Forest Park Marjan
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Zadar and Split, 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.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in the charming city of Plitvička Jezera. Your adventure starts at Sea Organ, a famous local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Monument To The Sun. This up-and-coming art installation is known for its romantic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Plitvička Jezera's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Roman Forum. This breathtaking archeological site offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Church Of St. Donatus is also worth visiting, along with Marjan. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Split, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you explore more of Split, 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Nevera Tavern, a top-rated dining destination in Split. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Perivoj restoran i kavana, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Konoba Laganini. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Split this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to La Linea. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Fabrique Pub, another top-rated place in the area.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Split
  • Zagreb
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Drive 413 km, 4 hours 37 min

  • Golden Gate
  • Diocletian's Palace
  • Diocletian's Cellars
  • Trogir Old Town
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Split and Trogir. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zagreb, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Split allows for both. Start by heading to Golden Gate. This beloved historical landmark provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Diocletian's Palace, an enchanting palace, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Diocletian's Cellars, a beloved archeological site. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the intriguing Trogir Old Town.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Zagreb. 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 lovely dining experience at Restoran Taurus, a popular restaurant in Zagreb. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zagreb at Trilogija - Vino & Kuhinja, 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 Pizzeria Park. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zagreb tonight.

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

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Zagreb - Departure day
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  • Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
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Day 5 of your road trip in Croatia is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Zagreb 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 Ban Josip Jelačić Statue, a symbolic monument before you head out.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Take a break with a cup of coffee or tea while savoring the local vibe in a coffee shop.

Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Zagreb.

If you're eager to try something different, consider La Štruk, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Zagreb. 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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