Relaxed 9-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Split to Zadar

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Croatia means 24 hours of making the best memories in Split. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Split. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Split!

Make a stop at Golden Gate. This frequently visited historical landmark is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Diocletian's Palace located in Split for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Saint Domnius Bell Tower. Its UNESCO world heritage-listed features will captivate you. After the monument, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Diocletian's Cellars. Visitors usually appreciate the UNESCO world heritage-designated features of this archeological site. Next up is West Bank, a highly recommended boardwalk.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Croatia more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Split offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Split has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Šug, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional regional menu. 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.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Split and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

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.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Split as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in Croatia!

Day 3 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Split, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Croatia are extraordinary.

Split is brimming with adventures. Bacvice is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in Split. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

Make time for Split Breakwater Lighthouse, an up-and-coming lighthouse that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Marjan, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at Mestrovic Gallery. This art gallery is one of the city’s most locally appreciated spots.

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

Croatia makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Croatia also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Exploring the food culture in Split offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Dine in style at Villa Spiza, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Kadena boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Konoba Kod Joze. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Split.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Split and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Ave Caffe Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Tennis Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Jadran Beach Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Croatia.

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip in Croatia will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Croatia, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Šibenik and set your GPS to Zadar. 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 2 min. Upon reaching Zadar, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the day by heading to Šibenik Cathedral, a worthwhile church that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Šibenik City Museum, where you can soak in the heritage-rich surroundings.

Next, explore Aquarium Terrarium Šibenik, yet another beloved place to see in the area. After the aquarium, make time to go to St. Nicholas’ Fortress. This history-steeped castle is well worth the visit.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you can relax in Zadar. Here, you can choose from the best hotels and other accommodations as you get to know more about the culture in the city.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Zadar, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Pizzeria Šime, a highly-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're eager to try something different, consider Harvatski restorant "Galiya", another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Zadar and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Yachting Bar & Club offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Caffe Bar Porthos is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The Factory Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Croatia!

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia, you’ll go deep into Zadar, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Zadar, and meet locals along the way!

Visiting Zadar Cathedral is always a good idea. This underrated church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the culturally significant wonders of Church Of St. Donatus, a must-see church in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Roman Forum. This intriguing archeological site offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Sea Organ, where you can take in visually striking features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Monument To The Sun These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Croatia by joining a traveler-approved tour in Split. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Split that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Croatia more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Zadar to find the best options for you!

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Croatia, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Zadar.

Don’t miss out on dining at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant 2Ribara. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Pirate Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Bizarre offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Backstage Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Zadar can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Croatia!

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through Croatia means 24 hours of making the best memories in Zadar. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Zadar. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Zadar!

Kolovare Beach is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This eye-catching beach is sure to impress. Next on your list is The Five Wells Square, another must-visit landmark and curiosity-inducing public square renowned for its enchanting features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Zadar by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Queen Jelena Madijevka Park. This romantic park is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Zadar experience. We also recommend visiting Narodni Trg, a frequently visited public square. Nearby, you'll also find Market Zadar, ready to add charm to your journey.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Croatia. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Croatia and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Zadar, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

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

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Zadar. The bars in Zadar make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

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

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Croatia!