Travel packages in Croatia

Road trips in Croatia

7-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar traveling east to Lika-Senj County 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.

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

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Explore the best of Croatia on a remarkable 7-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Zadar, Nin, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Smiljan, Kaniža Gospićka, Žabica, Lika-Senj County, Šibenik, Split, Grad Skradin, and Bogatić.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Croatia. You will spend 4 nights in Zadar, 1 night in Lika-Senj County, and 1 night 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, Nin, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Smiljan, Kaniža Gospićka, Žabica, Lika-Senj County, Šibenik, Split, Grad Skradin, and Bogatić, 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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Day1

Day 1

Zadar - Arrival day
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Kolovare Beach
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Your road trip adventure in Croatia begins as soon as you reach Zadar and pick up your car. You’ll stay here for 3 nights and explore what to see in Zadar, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Pizzeria Šime, 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 Harvatski restorant "Galiya", 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 Restoran Zadar - Jadera, a hidden gem nestled in Zadar. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Yachting Bar & Club, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Caffe Bar Porthos provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Factory Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Croatia!

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
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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 2 nights.

Let Sea Organ set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this culturally significant art installation before continuing your journey. Roman Forum is your next stop. This up-and-coming archeological site is one of the best-rated sights in Zadar.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Church Of St. Donatus. This culturally significant church is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Narodni Trg and Market 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.

Dine in style at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Pet Bunara Dine & Wine boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurant 2Ribara. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zadar.

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!

Day3

Day 3

Zadar
Nin
Ražanac
Maslenica
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Drive 156 km, 2 hours 36 min

Solana Nin Salt Museum
Pag Bridge
Maslenica Bridge
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On day 3 of your road trip in Croatia, you’ll start and end your day in Zadar, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Zadar, there’s no need to rush. Experience Nin, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Rupine, and Parići to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Nin. This car ride takes around 21 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Solana Nin Salt Museum. Spend some time admiring the awe-inspiring features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Roko, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Harbor CookHouse & Club? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restoran Urnebes as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Zadar.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Garden Lounge is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Down Town, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Beach Bar Bamboo. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Day4

Day 4

Zadar
Smiljan
Kaniža Gospićka
Žabica
Lika-Senj
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Drive 128 km, 1 hour 38 min

Nikola Tesla Memorial Center
Public institution "Velebit Nature Park"
Jasikovac, Park Suma
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Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in Croatia includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Smiljan, Kaniža Gospićka, and Žabica. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lika-Senj County, where you'll spend 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Smiljan. This car ride takes around 1 hour 20 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Nikola Tesla Memorial Center, a frequently visited museum known for its heritage-rich features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Smiljan and set your GPS to Kaniža Gospićka. 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 8 min. Upon reaching Kaniža Gospićka, 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 Public Institution "velebit Nature Park", a curiosity-inducing nature reserve in Kaniža Gospićka. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Kaniža Gospićka and set your GPS to Žabica. 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 5 min. Upon reaching Žabica, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in Žabica is Jasikovac, Park Suma, an underrated park that draws attention for its instagrammable features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Lika-Senj County. Lika-Senj County 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 Lika-Senj County's best restaurants.

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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Caffe Bar Fortuna, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Caffe Bar Amadeus provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Caffe Bar Bevanda 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.

Day5

Day 5

Lika-Senj
Šibenik
Split
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Drive 251 km, 3 hours 16 min

St. Jacob’s Cathedral
Forest Park Marjan
Golden Gate
Diocletian's Palace
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Šibenik and Split. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Split, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Šibenik may take around 1 hour 32 min. Upon your arrival in Šibenik, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Šibenik Cathedral and explore the enchanting features.

After soaking in Šibenik’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 15 min. When you arrive in Split, it's time to take a break from the road.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Marjan, a locally renowned park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Golden Gate and admire its UNESCO world heritage-listed features.

When you’re ready, continue to Diocletian's Palace, an astonishing palace beloved by locals and tourists alike.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Split, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Šug, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible regional menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Perivoj restoran i kavana is another top choice with a popular menu.

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.

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

Day6

Day 6

Split
Skradin
Bogatić
Zadar
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Drive 220 km, 3 hours 39 min

Skradinski buk
Krka National Park
Roski waterfall
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On day 6 of your road trip in Croatia, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Grad Skradin and Bogatić are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zadar, where you will stay for 1 night.

Upon reaching Grad Skradin, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Skradinski Buk, a worthwhile waterfall that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Krka National Park, an astonishing national park that everyone visiting Grad Skradin should see.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bogatić, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Zadar. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 5 min.

Roski Waterfall is a beloved waterfall we recommend visiting today. Discover its mesmerizing features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at GRICKO, 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 Konoba Rafaelo, 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 Konoba Misterija, a hidden gem nestled in Zadar. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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 stunning 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.

If you're in the mood for something new, try Konoba Berekin, another premier location with a delectable 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.

We guarantee

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

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