7-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar to Šibenik, Split, and Lika-Senj County and surrounding area
Description
Included
Description
Explore the best of Croatia on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Zadar, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Grad Benkovac, Šibenik, Dubrava kod Šibenika, Split, Lika-Senj County, Smiljan, and Senj. This road trip itinerary in Croatia seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
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 Šibenik, 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 Šibenik Cathedral.
As you hit the open road and drive through Zadar, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Grad Benkovac, Šibenik, Dubrava kod Šibenika, Split, Lika-Senj County, Smiljan, 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.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Zadar. 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 Zadar, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Pizzeria Šime, 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 Harvatski restorant "Galiya", 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 Restoran Zadar - Jadera. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zadar tonight.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Yachting Bar & Club stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Porthos offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The Factory Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Croatia!
Day 2
- Zadar
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Drive 4 km, 30 min
- Sea organ
- Roman Forum
- Church of St. Donatus
- People's Square
- Market Zadar
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Zadar for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Zadar today. One of the most top-rated attractions included on the itinerary is Sea Organ. This culturally significant art installation will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Roman Forum and learn what makes this historic archeological site unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the frequently visited Church Of St. Donatus. After exploring the church, head to Narodni Trg. This underrated public square is a highlight in Zadar. As your day continues, stop by Market Zadar, known for its eye-catching features.
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.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Pirate Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Caffe Bar Bizarre is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Backstage Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!
Day 3
- Zadar
- Šibenik
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Drive 202 km, 3 hours 30 min
- Pag Bridge
- Maslenica Bridge
- Pariževačka glavica
- Paklenica National Park
- Vidikovac, Kamenjak
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On day 3 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 Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Rupine, Parići, and Grad Benkovac. In the evening, you’ll end up in Šibenik, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Paški Most.
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. After that, visit Vidikovac, Kamenjak, an increasingly popular observation deck 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 for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Šibenik. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Šibenik. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Pelegrini, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Fry Guy is another top choice with a popular menu.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Caffe Palma after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Mystic for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Azimut is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Croatia.
Day 4
- Šibenik
- Split
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Drive 110 km, 2 hours 24 min
- St Nicholas’ Fortress
- St. Jacob’s Cathedral
- St John's Fort
- Uvala Minerska bay
- Falconry center
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Šibenik and Dubrava kod Šibenika. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Split. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today's adventure in Šibenik promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at St. Nicholas’ Fortress. This visually striking castle is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Šibenik Cathedral, another enchanting attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to St. John's Fort, one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing attractions, known for its enchanting features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Uvala Minerska Bay. This romantic beach is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Falconry Center, an up-and-coming bird watching area, and take a stroll around the area.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Split. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Nevera Tavern, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Perivoj restoran i kavana? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Konoba Laganini as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Split.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. La Linea is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Fabrique Pub offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Croatia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- 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 5 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.
Get ready for an exciting day in Split. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a historical landmark, a palace, a boardwalk, a beach, a park and much more! Begin your adventure at Golden Gate. This is an increasingly popular historical landmark you should not miss. Another must-see is Diocletian's Palace, a spectacular palace in Split.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to West Bank. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Kašjuni Beach, another of the city’s increasingly popular attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Marjan, a serene place of interest in the city.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Lika-Senj County's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Dine in style at The Highlanders pub, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Kavana Milinković boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Lika-Senj County.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Caffe Bar Fortuna, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Caffe Bar Amadeus offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Lika-Senj County. Caffe Bar Bevanda is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!
Day 6
- Lika-Senj
- Zadar
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Drive 288 km, 3 hours 35 min
- Nikola Tesla Memorial Center
- Nehaj Fortress
- Sundial on the 45th parallel
- Plaža Prva Draga
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Smiljan and Senj. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zadar, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites in the charming village of Lika-Senj County. Your adventure starts at Nikola Tesla Memorial Center, a locally appreciated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Nehaj Fortress. This underrated castle is known for its photogenic appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Lika-Senj County's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Sundial On The 45th Parallel. This remarkable monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Plaža Prva Draga is also worth visiting.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Zadar's best restaurants.
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.
Keep the evening going at The Garden Lounge, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Down Town, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Beach Bar Bamboo, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Croatia!
Day 7
- Zadar - Departure day
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- Queen Jelena Madijevka Park
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Day 7 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, we recommend visiting Queen Jelena Madijevka Park, a mesmerizing park before you head out.
Maximize your last day in Croatia and go on a shopping spree in Zadar’s shopping center, the lively City Galleria. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Croatia. Discover boutiques with stylish fashion choices to upgrade your wardrobe.
Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Zadar.
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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