7-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar to Šibenik, Split, and Lika-Senj County and surrounding area

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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.
7-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar to Šibenik, Split, and Lika-Senj County and surrounding area
7-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar to Šibenik, Split, and Lika-Senj County and surrounding area
7-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar to Šibenik, Split, and Lika-Senj County and surrounding area
7-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar to Šibenik, Split, and Lika-Senj County and surrounding area
7-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar to Šibenik, Split, and Lika-Senj County and surrounding area
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Experience the freedom of the open road on an unforgettable 7-day road trip in Croatia! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Zadar, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Grad Benkovac, Šibenik, Dubrava kod Šibenika, Split, Lika-Senj County, Smiljan, and Senj.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Croatia. 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 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, 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, 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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  • Kolovare Beach
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Welcome to Zadar, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Croatia! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights discovering what to see in Zadar before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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. 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Pizzeria Šime, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Harvatski restorant "Galiya" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restoran Zadar - Jadera. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zadar.

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!

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Day2

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
  • More

Day 2 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Zadar. You’ll stay in Zadar for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Sea Organ makes a great addition to your morning plans. This extraordinary art installation is a visually striking place to see in Zadar. Continue your discovery at Roman Forum, a picture-perfect archeological site with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Zadar, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Church Of St. Donatus. This curiosity-inducing church offers an instagrammable encounter with Zadar. Next, make your way to Narodni Trg to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Market Zadar, a beloved market 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.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Pet Bunara Dine & Wine is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant 2Ribara. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Zadar tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Pirate Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Caffe Bar Bizarre, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Backstage Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Croatia!

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Day3

Day 3

  • Zadar
  • Ražanac
  • Maslenica
  • Šibenik
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Drive 202 km, 3 hours 30 min

  • Pag Bridge
  • Maslenica Bridge
  • Pariževačka glavica
  • 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 5 places, which are Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Rupine, Parići, and Grad Benkovac. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Šibenik, where will spend 1 night.

Općina Jasenice’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Općina Ražanac behind. This drive usually takes around 24 min. Općina Jasenice welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Maslenica Bridge is an up-and-coming deck arch bridge we recommend visiting today.

When you’ve had your share of Općina Jasenice, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Rupine. Your travel time is around 8 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Pariževačka Glavica, a curiosity-inducing cliff in Rupine. Explore its mesmerizing features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Šibenik. 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 Šibenik, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Discover the culinary delights of Šibenik by securing a reservation at Pelegrini. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. Alternatively, Fry Guy beckons with its unique menu offerings.

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

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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Day4

Day 4

  • Šibenik
  • Dubrava kod Šibenika
  • 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
  • More

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Šibenik and Dubrava kod Šibenika. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Split, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Make time for St. Nicholas’ Fortress, an underrated castle that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Šibenik Cathedral, enchanting visitors with its grand appeal. Continue your exploration at St. John's Fort. This castle is one of the city’s most often recommended spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Šibenik at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Uvala Minerska Bay.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Dubrava kod Šibenika may take around 24 min. Upon your arrival in Dubrava kod Šibenika, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Falconry Center and explore the picturesque 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.

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.

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

Head back to your accommodation in Split and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia.

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Day5

Day 5

  • Split
  • Lika-Senj
  • More

Drive 235 km, 3 hours 7 min

  • Golden Gate
  • Diocletian's Palace
  • West Bank
  • Kašjuni Beach
  • Forest Park Marjan
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip in Croatia, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Split are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lika-Senj County, where you will stay for 1 night.

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

Continue your journey to West Bank, one of the city’s most locally appreciated spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the up-and-coming Kašjuni Beach. When you're finished at the beach, Marjan awaits your visit. This park is an eye-catching 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.

Lika-Senj County 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 Lika-Senj County.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Highlanders pub, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kavana Milinković offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lika-Senj County.

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

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

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Day6

Day 6

  • Lika-Senj
  • Smiljan
  • 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
  • More

Your itinerary for day 6 of your road trip in Croatia includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Smiljan and Senj. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zadar, where you'll spend 1 night.

As you explore Smiljan’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lika-Senj County, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Smiljan. This drive usually takes around 8 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Nikola Tesla Memorial Center, a beloved museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Senj. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 15 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Nehaj Fortress, an up-and-coming castle known for its picture-perfect features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Sundial On The 45th Parallel, an up-and-coming 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 Plaža Prva Draga and uncover the details of this eye-catching beach.

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 meal at Roko, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Harbor CookHouse & Club is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restoran Urnebes. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Zadar tonight.

Continue your lively evening at The Garden Lounge, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Down Town is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Beach Bar Bamboo ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

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Day7

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 serene park before you head out.

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.

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