5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Split traveling north to Lika-Senj County and Zadar

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Photo of Split panoramic aerial view of town with beautiful beach and blue sky, Dalmatia, Croatia.
Photo of beautiful Adriatic Beach and Lagoon with Turquoise Water near Split, Croatia.
5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Split traveling north to Lika-Senj County and Zadar
5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Split traveling north to Lika-Senj County and Zadar
5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Split traveling north to Lika-Senj County and Zadar
5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Split traveling north to Lika-Senj County and Zadar
5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Split traveling north to Lika-Senj County and Zadar
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Explore the best of Croatia on a remarkable 5-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Split, Lika-Senj County, Smiljan, Općina Jasenice, Općina Ražanac, and Zadar.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Croatia. You will spend 2 nights in Split, 1 night in Lika-Senj County, and 1 night in Zadar. 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 you covered.

Upon arriving in Split, 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.

As you hit the open road and drive through Split, Lika-Senj County, Smiljan, Općina Jasenice, Općina Ražanac, and Zadar, 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, accommodations, 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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Day1

Day 1

  • Split - Arrival day
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  • Bacvice
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Welcome to Split, 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 discovering what to see in Split before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Split is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Split. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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 Split, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

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.

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

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Day2

Day 2

  • 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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Your itinerary for day 2 of your road trip in Croatia includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Split. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lika-Senj County, where you'll spend 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the underrated Golden Gate and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Diocletian's Palace, a grand palace that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to West Bank, one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the worthwhile Kašjuni Beach. When you're finished at the beach, Marjan awaits your visit. This park is a mesmerizing highlight on today's itinerary.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Highlanders pub, a top-rated dining destination in Lika-Senj County. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kavana Milinković, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lika-Senj County this evening.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

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Day3

Day 3

  • Lika-Senj
  • Smiljan
  • Zadar
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Drive 196 km, 3 hours 21 min

  • Nikola Tesla Memorial Center
  • Paklenica National Park
  • Pariževačka glavica
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 5 destinations, including Smiljan, Parići, Rupine, Općina Jasenice, and Općina Ražanac. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Zadar, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Smiljan. This car ride takes around 8 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Nikola Tesla Memorial Center. Spend some time admiring the photogenic features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

Parići’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Smiljan behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 21 min. Parići welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Paklenica National Park, an often recommended national park that draws visitors from near and far.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Rupine. This drive usually takes around 45 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Pariževačka Glavica and explore the idyllic features.

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.

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.

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Yachting Bar & Club, known for its inviting atmosphere. Caffe Bar Porthos is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Factory Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

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Day4

Day 4

  • Zadar
  • Split
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Drive 195 km, 3 hours 4 min

  • Market Zadar
  • People's Square
  • Church of St. Donatus
  • Sea organ
  • Krka National Park
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Zadar. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Split, where you'll spend 1 night.

Market Zadar is an ideal stop early in the day. This up-and-coming market is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Narodni Trg, which may be one of the most romantic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Zadar on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Church Of St. Donatus, an underrated church in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Sea Organ.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Krka National Park, a top-rated national park in Zadar. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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.

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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Split by securing a reservation at Šug. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of regional cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, DeListes restaurant Split boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Caffe Bar Mythos, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Caffe Bar Legis is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Caffe Bar Tik also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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.

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Day5

Day 5

  • Split - Departure day
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  • Marmontova Street
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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 Split before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

At the top of the list of places to visit today is Marmontova Street, a street that captures the true essence of Split. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Take some time to indulge in shopping at Split’s popular marketplace, Marmontova Street. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Villa Spiza, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Kadena? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Split. 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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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
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Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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