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

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Photo of aerial panoramic view of the cityscape and waterfront of Zadar, Croatia.
Photo of Zadar archipelago. Kali on Ugljan island turquoise sea and walkway view, Croatia.
6-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar to Šibenik and Split
6-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar to Šibenik and Split
6-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar to Šibenik and Split
6-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar to Šibenik and Split
6-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar to Šibenik and Split
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Explore the best of Croatia on a remarkable 6-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Zadar, Šibenik, Split, Trogir, Makarska, Podgora, and Nin.

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

As you hit the open road and drive through Zadar, Šibenik, Split, Trogir, Makarska, Podgora, and Nin, 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

  • Zadar - Arrival day
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  • Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
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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 1 night 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 Church Of The Sacred Heart Of Jesus. 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.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Zadar. Make yourself at home and unwind 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Pizzeria Šime, a top-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Harvatski restorant "Galiya", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Croatia!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Zadar
  • Šibenik
  • More

Drive 126 km, 2 hours 24 min

  • Queen Jelena Madijevka Park
  • Church of St. Donatus
  • Roman Forum
  • Sea organ
  • The Greeting to the Sun
  • Krka National Park
  • More

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Zadar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Šibenik, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Make a stop at Queen Jelena Madijevka Park. This intriguing park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Church Of St. Donatus located in Zadar for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Roman Forum. Its breathtaking features will captivate you. After the archeological site, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Sea Organ. Visitors usually appreciate the awe-inspiring features of this art installation. Next up is Monument To The Sun, a highly recommended art installation.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Krka National Park. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the national park before you continue to your next stop.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Šibenik, 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 Šibenik. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Dine in style at Antin Gušt Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Fry Guy boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Atrium. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight 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.

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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Day3

Day 3

  • Šibenik
  • Split
  • More

Drive 89 km, 1 hour 20 min

  • St Nicholas’ Fortress
  • Šibenik City Museum
  • St. Jacob’s Cathedral
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Šibenik. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Split, where will spend 2 nights.

One of the most underrated attractions included on the itinerary is St. Nicholas’ Fortress. This UNESCO world heritage-listed castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Šibenik City Museum and learn what makes this history-steeped museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the increasingly popular Šibenik Cathedral.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Nevera Tavern, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Perivoj restoran i kavana offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Konoba Laganini is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Split.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, La Linea is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Fabrique Pub also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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Day4

Day 4

  • Split
  • Trogir
  • More

Drive 70 km, 2 hours 5 min

  • Forest Park Marjan
  • Golden Gate
  • Diocletian's Palace
  • Trogir Old Town
  • Kamerlengo Castle
  • More

Wake up to day 4 of your road trip in Croatia. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Split and Trogir. With 1 night to stay in Split, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Enjoy all that Marjan has to offer. This is an interesting park you should not miss. Another must-see is Golden Gate, an often recommended historical landmark in Split.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Diocletian's Palace.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Trogir. This drive usually takes around 38 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Trogir is Trogir Old Town, an often recommended historical landmark that draws attention for its visually striking features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Kamerlengo Castle, a symbolic castle that stands out in the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Split and your accommodation.

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.

Dine in style at Babylon, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, DeListes restaurant Split boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bokeria Kitchen & Wine. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Split.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Caffe Bar Mythos. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Caffe Bar Legis, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Caffe Bar Tik provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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Day5

Day 5

  • Split
  • Makarska
  • Podgora
  • Nin
  • Zadar
  • More

Drive 348 km, 5 hours 15 min

  • St Peter Forest Park
  • Biokovo Nature Park
  • Solana Nin Salt Museum
  • Church of the Holy Cross
  • Historic Town Gate
  • Knez Branimir
  • More

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Makarska, Podgora, and Nin. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Zadar, where you'll spend 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Makarska, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Split to Makarska may take around 1 hour 11 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Makarska, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is St. Peter Forest Park. Spend some time admiring the serene features of the park before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Makarska, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Podgora. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 2 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Podgora is Biokovo Nature Park - Skywalk, an increasingly popular observation deck that draws attention for its eye-catching features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Nin. This car ride takes around 2 hours 27 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Nin is Solana Nin Salt Museum, a curiosity-inducing museum that draws attention for its historic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Church Of The Holy Cross, a photogenic church that stands out in the town.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Historic Town Gate, an up-and-coming historical landmark that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Knez Branimir, a nearby monument, highly recommended by other travelers.

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

Zadar 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 Zadar.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, an iconic dining spot in Zadar. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, a popular restaurant in Zadar. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurant 2Ribara, a hidden gem nestled in Zadar. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Pirate Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Caffe Bar Bizarre offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Backstage Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Croatia!

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Day6

Day 6

  • Zadar - Departure day
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  • Market Zadar
  • More

Day 6 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, begin at Market Zadar. This often recommended market is a hotspot among locals.

For a last-minute shopping spree in Zadar, City Galleria is nearby. Enjoy a variety of retail stores, dining options, and essential services in one convenient location. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home.

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Harbor CookHouse & Club, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

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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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.
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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