10-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar to Rijeka, Zagreb, Šibenik, and Split and surrounding area

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Zadar. You’ll stay in Zadar for 1 night.

Church Of St. Donatus is must-visit church and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Zadar Cathedral, an increasingly popular church, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Roman Forum, a picture-perfect archeological site, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Zadar. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the impressive Sea Organ. If you’re looking for more, Monument To The Sun is also an often recommended attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Croatia. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Zadar. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top-rated dining spot in Zadar. If you're in the mood for something new, try Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant 2Ribara. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zadar.

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

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Croatia.

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Smiljan, Jablanac, and Senj. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Rijeka, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Zadar and set your GPS to Smiljan. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 20 min. Upon reaching Smiljan, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Nikola Tesla Memorial Center, a worthwhile museum in Smiljan. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Jablanac, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Smiljan to Jablanac may take around 1 hour 5 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Jablanac, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Zavratnica Cove is an underrated canyon we recommend visiting today. Discover its peaceful features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Jablanac, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Senj. This drive usually takes around 41 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Nehaj Fortress, a curiosity-inducing castle that everyone visiting Senj should see.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Rijeka. Rijeka offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Rijeka's best restaurants.

Have a memorable dining experience in Rijeka by booking a table at Nebo by Deni Srdoč, a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern and creative menu. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Capote y Ole. , a popular restaurant in Rijeka. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Charlie Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Wine Bar "kod Zajca", a bar catering to every mood and preference. Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001 likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Say good night to Rijeka and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Rijeka, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Pula. This car ride takes around 1 hour 33 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Aquarium Pula, a well-known aquarium known for its photogenic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Temple Of Augustus, a notable monument.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Forum Square and uncover the details of this enchanting public square. Make sure to also explore Pula Arena, a famous archeological site.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Rijeka. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Trattoria Krug, a popular restaurant in Rijeka. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Rijeka at Zelena Dolina, 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 Buffet "Cocco". It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Rijeka tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Teatro Lounge Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Book Caffe Dnevni Boravak provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Pub "bačva" offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Zagreb. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zagreb, where will spend 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Zagreb. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 46 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Bundek and explore the serene features. Next, make your way to Park Maksimir, another highlight in Zagreb. When you’re done exploring the park, continue to Zagreb Zoo, a picture-perfect zoo.

Nearby, you will also find Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb. This frequently visited performing arts theater is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Ban Josip Jelačić Statue, a symbolic monument that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Zagreb. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Zagreb is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Zagreb.

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

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

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Croatia.

On day 7 of your road trip in Croatia, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Šibenik, Dubrava kod Šibenika, and Split are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Split, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Your adventure in Šibenik is only getting started when you visit St. Nicholas’ Fortress, a curiosity-inducing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Šibenik Cathedral. This intriguing church is known for its history-steeped appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Šibenik's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to St. John's Fort. This respected castle offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

Dubrava kod Šibenika’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Šibenik behind. This drive usually takes around 16 min. Dubrava kod Šibenika welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Our first attraction recommendation in Dubrava kod Šibenika is Falconry Center, an intriguing bird watching area that draws attention for its visually striking features.

After soaking in Dubrava kod Šibenika’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Split. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 10 min. When you arrive in Split, it's time to take a break from the road.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Marjan and explore the romantic features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Split. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

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.

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

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Croatia.

Day 8 of your road trip across Croatia promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Split. You have 1 night left in Split. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Split is brimming with adventures.

Your adventure in Split is only getting started when you visit Kašjuni Beach, a worthwhile local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is West Bank. This intriguing boardwalk is known for its stunning 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 history-steeped monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Diocletian's Palace is also worth visiting, along with Golden Gate. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Croatia. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Babylon, a popular restaurant in Split. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Split at DeListes restaurant Split, 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 Bokeria Kitchen & Wine. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Split tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Caffe Bar Mythos, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Caffe Bar Legis is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Caffe Bar Tik is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Say good night to Split and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, including Grad Benkovac, Grad Biograd na Moru, Općina Jasenice, and Rupine. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Zadar, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

When you’ve had your share of Split, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Grad Benkovac. Your travel time is around 1 hour 29 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Grad Benkovac is Vidikovac, Kamenjak, a locally appreciated observation deck that draws attention for its romantic features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Grad Biograd na Moru may take around 32 min. Upon your arrival in Grad Biograd na Moru, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Plaža Dražica, an up-and-coming beach known for its romantic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Plaža Soline, an intriguing beach.

When you’ve had your share of Grad Biograd na Moru, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Općina Jasenice. Your travel time is around 44 min.

Savor the day by heading to Maslenica Bridge, a locally appreciated deck arch bridge that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Zadar. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Zadar's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Roko, 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 Harbor CookHouse & Club, 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 Urnebes. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zadar tonight.

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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!