Croatia Road Trip: Best 8-Day Itinerary in Croatia

Croatia, one of the most popular destinations in the Balkans, is a land of natural wonders, stunning rocky mountains, and beautiful beaches waiting to be explored.

The best way to experience Croatia’s diverse beauty is through a road trip.

In our article, we’ll first look at some of the aspects and features of driving in Croatia that you should know before you embark on a road trip in Croatia. We also cover some of the most frequently asked questions about Croatia road trips.

Below, you’ll find our 8-day Croatia road trip itinerary that will take you to the best of Croatia in eight days, exploring stunning scenery, immersing yourself in the country’s rich history, and enjoying Croatian culture and gastronomy.

So first, let’s see what you need to know before you set off on your Croatia road trip.

Is Croatia worth visiting?

Absolutely yes! If you love the Mediterranean, the Adriatic Sea, pebble beaches, historic buildings, beautiful islands, and fantastic panoramas, Croatia is the perfect destination for you.

In fact, despite its small size, Croatia offers basically everything a tourist could wish for: stunning mountains, crystal-clear lakes and rivers, enjoyable beaches, and delicious food.

Downsides of Croatia

Unfortunately, the economic changes of previous years have led to large price increases in Croatia.

While Croatia used to be a popular holiday destination for Central European countries because of its affordable prices, it has now become a decidedly more expensive destination. It has caught up with Western Europe in terms of price levels, but not as much in terms of infrastructure and quality.

The highway network serves as a good illustration of this: Croatian highways are among the most expensive in Europe, while their quality is more reminiscent of the Balkans, with some decidedly poor sections in places.

Another drawback is that the quality of service does not match Western standards: we have to admit that we have never stayed in a really good Croatian hotel, regardless of the category. We hope this will change in the future.

Getting to Croatia

If you travel from a neighboring country or from somewhere not far away in Europe, we strongly recommend using your own car. Croatia is easily accessible by highway from several directions.

In addition, starting from 2023, Croatia became a member of the Schengen Area, leading to the abolition of border controls to the west and north. This change has made traveling by car much easier than in previous years.

If you are arriving by plane, your flight will probably land at Zagreb Airport. For this reason, we have designed our itinerary to start from and return to Zagreb.

Best time to visit Croatia

The best time to visit Croatia depends on what you want to do during your trip.

If you only want to explore the cities, spring or autumn is recommended.

If you want a beach holiday, you should definitely choose the summer months, but there are many drawbacks (traffic jams, crowds).

If you want to see it all and don’t want too much heat, we recommend June or September. In these months you can probably swim in the sea, it’s not too hot to visit the cities and you can avoid the crowds.

Driving in Croatia

We’ve heard that driving in Croatia is supposed to be great, but we have to disagree.

The driving style in many Slavic countries, including Croatia, can be a bit wild compared to other places. And with lots of tourists from different countries on the roads, it can get pretty chaotic.

It feels unsafe, especially in summer when the highways are packed. There aren’t many cameras or police checks, so a lot of people speed.

The traffic jams can get really bad, especially on weekends in the summer.

That’s why we recommend avoiding travel during the peak season (July and August).

Car rental in Croatia

If you arrive by plane, we strongly recommend car hire to complete our 8-day itinerary. Although it is not impossible to get from one place to another by public transport, it would probably be more difficult and slower than by car.

Costs of a trip to Croatia

As mentioned above, traveling to Croatia is no longer cheap. It used to be an affordable seaside destination, but in recent years it has become significantly more expensive. This is due to Covid-19, the introduction of the euro, inflation, and the huge influx of tourists that flood Croatia every summer.

Hotels, tolls, restaurants, and shops are also pricey. Fuel and parking are at average prices by European standards (except in Dubrovnik, which is the most expensive place in the whole country).

If you’re looking to save money on your Croatia road trip, the savings might be minimal. Many costs are almost fixed, such as fuel, tolls, and meals.

You can potentially save on hotels by adjusting your expectations. However, it’s important to note that Croatian hotels might not meet the typical standards of their category. Opting for a 3-star hotel over a 4-star to save money might not be worth it, considering potential issues with cleanliness, opening hours, breakfast options, etc.

The best way to save money on hotels – reasonably – is to avoid the high season. Travel in May, June, September or October, and you’ll find the same hotel 20-40% cheaper than in high season. However, keep in mind that the sea in Croatia might be too cold for swimming in these less expensive periods.

You can save a little on tolls if you use the free roads, but for a trip of about a week in Croatia, it will still be a small amount, and you could end up spending many extra hours on the road.

You can also save money on food. While a main course at a fancy place can cost between 15–30 euros, you might opt for more affordable options like buffets and fast-food restaurants instead. At more budget-friendly places, you can find a main meal for less than €10 per person.

Generally speaking, you can expect to spend some thousand euros for an 8-day road trip in Croatia. If you drive your own car, then one week costs from around €1,500 for two people. If you arrive by plane and rent a car to explore Croatia, it’s much more expensive, at least €2,000 to €3,000.

A trip to Croatia isn’t cheap, but it’s absolutely worth it for the many sights, natural beauty and interesting attractions.

Is it safe to travel in Croatia?

Croatia has very low crime rates and is one of the safest countries in the region. So you can travel wherever you want without fear of criminals. Of course, regardless of this, you should still take basic precautions.

Is tap water drinkable in Croatia?

Absolutely, Croatia has good quality tap water, so there’s nothing to worry about.

After addressing the frequently asked questions, here’s the itinerary for our 8-day road trip in Croatia.

8-day road trip itinerary in Croatia

We start our 8-day Croatia itinerary from Zagreb, where those arriving by plane usually land. However, as this itinerary describes a circular trip, you can of course start and end on any day of your choice.

Our itinerary also covers sightseeing, beaches, and visits to ancient ruins.

The trip can easily be extended with a few extra days, whether you want to visit the Croatian countryside or neighboring destinations such as Kotor in Montenegro or Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

If you feel the pace of our itinerary is too fast, feel free to add a few extra days, and you’ll be able to travel around the country in 10 or 14 days in much more comfort.

Map of the 8-day Croatia road trip

We show the main destinations and routes on Google Maps.

So here are 8 days to discover the best places of Croatia:

Day 1: Zagreb

On the first day of your 8-day Croatia trip, explore Croatia’s capital, Zagreb.

The city center of Zagreb is easily accessible on foot in a day, so you won’t necessarily need a car. If you do drive, Zagreb is a relatively car-friendly city, so parking is not a problem.

In one day in Zagreb, the following sights are worth a visit:

Zagreb Cathedral

The Cathedral of Zagreb is the most dominant building in the city, with its impressive Gothic architecture and tall spires.

The nearby Monument of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the surrounding buildings are also an interesting sight.

Jelačić Square

In the heart of Zagreb, you’ll find this vibrant main square, with cafés, shops and restaurants. The statue of Ban Josip Jelačić in the center of the square is the symbol of the city, a reminder of the Croatian national hero.

Lotrščak Tower

Located in Zagreb’s old town, this historic tower boasts one of the best views of the city. Every day at noon, a cannon is fired, marking the time, a tradition that visitors can witness.

Near the tower is a small square, called “Panoramic View-Point of Zagreb City” on Google Maps. From here you can also get a stunning view of the city.

Dolac Market

Located just steps from Ban Jelačić Square, is a bustling open-air market and a vital part of Zagreb’s daily life. Here, local farmers and vendors offer a variety of fresh produce, meats, and dairy products under iconic red umbrellas. Visitors can sample local delicacies, engage with friendly vendors, and even find unique handmade products.

Maksimir Park

Located in the eastern part of Zagreb, Maksimir Park stands as the city’s largest public park. Visitors can explore winding pathways, discover charming wooden bridges, and relax by the peaceful ponds.

Adding to its charm is the Zagreb Zoo, housed within the park, making Maksimir a delightful spot for both nature lovers and families.

As Maksimir Park is a little further away from the other attractions, we only recommend it if you have enough time to get there by car or public transport.

Once you’ve fully explored the Croatian capital, prepare yourself for the next days, as our itinerary will lead you into the countryside.

Day 2: Zagreb, Plitvice Lakes

On day two, continue your journey from Zagreb to one of Croatia’s most popular destinations, Plitvice Lakes.

Zagreb – Plitvice Lakes National Park (Plitvička Jezera): 2 h 20 min, 140 km

The Plitvice Lakes National Park is a wonder in Croatia and is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This stunning natural treasure offers a series of 16 shimmering lakes that flow into each other, surrounded by dense green forests. The lakes showcase various shades from turquoise to emerald green, creating breathtaking waterfalls.

Well-maintained paths and wooden bridges allow visitors to closely admire the natural beauty, while the abundant flora and fauna provide interesting exploration opportunities.

Several routes are available at Plitvice Lakes. Since there is limited time to explore Plitvice Lakes in our 8-day Croatia itinerary, choose one of the quicker routes.

According to the national park website, shorter routes take 2–3 hours, while medium routes take 4–6 hours. It is worth choosing one of these, especially the 4-6 hour routes. That way you can see pretty much everything worth seeing from the lakes and waterfalls and still fit it into your daily schedule.

After you’re done exploring the Plitvice Lakes, head on to Zadar in the evening. You’ll have to drive on a main road for a short stretch, but soon you can continue on the highway.

Plitvička Jezera – Zadar: 1 h 50 min, 135 km

Spend the night in Zadar.

Day 3: Zadar, Pag Island

On the third day of our Croatian road trip, we focus on exploring the main attractions of Zadar and its neighboring areas, particularly the enchanting island of Pag.

This region truly deserves your attention and time. Zadar, with its urban comforts, is rich in cultural and historical sights, while Pag Island provides an idyllic setting for beach activities and rural exploration.

We list some of the best things to do for a great day in Zadar and on Pag Island:

Highlights of Zadar

Sea Organ

This unique architectural work transforms the movement of the waves into music, creating a special, meditative atmosphere. It is worth listening to the sounds generated by the waves while walking along the promenade or even sitting on the steps of the organ.

The Greeting to the Sun

Located next to the Sea Organ, this solar-powered installation greets the sun at sunset with a magical light show, creating a stunning spectacle.

Roman Forum

The ancient center of Zadar is located in the heart of the city and preserves the remains of Roman civilization. The Roman Forum was an important part of city life and ruins of ancient buildings can still be seen.

Church of St. Donatus

Built in the 9th century, the circular church is one of Zadar’s best known and most important monuments.

It is located right next to the Roman Forum and is well worth a look.

The Bell Tower beside them is also one of the most famous buildings in the old town of Zadar.

Pag Island

Pag Bridge

On the way to the island of Pag, you will cross a bridge called Pag Bridge. It’s worth either stopping in the car park next to the road before the bridge, or you can take a left down another road after the bridge, also for a view of the bridge.

In the latter place you will also find old ruins called Tvrđava Fortica.

Town of Pag

In the town of Pag, you can visit the ruins of the preserved castle wall with the Skrivanat Tower and the Benedictine Monastery of St. Margaret.

Additionally, you can find a local history museum in Pag, which presents the island’s history.

Visiting a konoba

The region’s gastronomic specialities are an outstanding experience. When on Pag Island, visit a konoba, a local restaurant, to enjoy local cuisine, including the island’s specialty, the sheep’s cheese called paški sir.

Beaches on Pag Island

Pag Island is easily reachable by car, and due to its distinct shape, it boasts an abundance of beautiful beaches that are worth visiting when in the area.

Among our top picks on Pag are Zrće Beach and Jadra Beach, although the island is home to numerous other fantastic beaches.

These activities will more than fill your third day in Croatia. Enjoy the beaches, local cuisine, and historical sites.

The next day will once again focus on natural attractions.

It’s worth staying in Zadar for the night.

Day 4: Krka National Park

On the 4th day of our Croatia road trip, we discover another world-famous national park, Krka National Park.

Zadar – Krka National Park: 1 h, 90 km

Krka National Park is often compared to the Plitvice Lakes, as both are unique natural spectacles made up of lakes and waterfalls.

However, exploring Krka can be more challenging as the park is extensive and comprises numerous locations.

Due to this, this itinerary may only be able to include a few of the park’s attractions.

To experience the best of Krka, you should head to Lozovac. After parking and purchasing your ticket, you can either walk or take a bus to reach the waterfalls and lakes. Be prepared for a steep descent if you choose to walk, and ensure you wear comfortable shoes.

One of the park’s primary highlights is Skradinski Buk, an impressive, large waterfall. Though it was once possible to swim in the waters below, this is now prohibited. You can still get very close to the falls, thanks to the well-kept paths and wooden walkways, making it worthwhile to explore and spend a few hours there.

If you have extra time, you might also visit Roški Slap, a smaller yet stunning waterfall located on the park’s northern side, and Visovac Island, situated in the park’s center and home to a historic monastery.

The best viewpoint for the island is marked as “Viewpoint Visovac Monastery” on Google Maps, and offers a quiet spot for photography.

These additional attractions are accessible by car, but given the driving distances involved, it’s important to thoughtfully plan and decide whether to incorporate them into your itinerary.

In addition, it is important to mention that there are different types of entrance tickets to Krka National Park, with each entrance having a different ticket. It is worth considering in advance whether you want to visit more than one place or whether you will be satisfied with just one place, you can buy your ticket accordingly.

After finishing your exploration of Krka, be prepared for a longer drive. It’s worth continuing on to Dubrovnik, perhaps Croatia’s most famous city.

Krka National Park – Dubrovnik: 3 h 20 min, 280 km

Day 5: Dubrovnik

On the fifth day of our Croatian itinerary, the focus is on sightseeing in Dubrovnik.

Dubrovnik, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a stunning coastal city in Croatia known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has a rich history, dating back to the 7th century, and offers a plethora of attractions for tourists to explore.

Dubrovnik’s must-see places include:

Old Town

The heart of the city, Dubrovnik’s Old Town is filled with charming cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and vibrant shops and cafes. Be sure to visit the Rector’s Palace and Sponza Palace to get a glimpse of the city’s past.

Stradun

The main street of Old Town, Stradun is a bustling thoroughfare filled with shops, restaurants, and historic sites. Don’t miss the Onofrio’s Fountain and the Church of St. Blaise, both located along this iconic street.

City Walls

One of the city’s most iconic features, the ancient walls offer breathtaking views of both the city and the sea. A walk along the walls is a must-do to fully appreciate the beauty and history of Dubrovnik.

Lovrijenac Fort

Located just outside the city walls, this historic fort offers stunning views of Dubrovnik and the surrounding sea.

Cable car to Mount Srđ

For the best views of Dubrovnik and the Adriatic Sea, take a cable car ride to the top of Mount Srđ. At the summit, you’ll find a panoramic vista that is simply breathtaking.

Banje Beach

After a day of sightseeing, relax and unwind at Banje Beach, located just a short walk from Old Town. With its crystal-clear waters and stunning views of the city walls, it’s the perfect spot to soak up the sun and enjoy the beauty of Dubrovnik.

Stay overnight in Dubrovnik before continuing your journey the following day.

Day 6: Omis, Split

On day 6, we’ll head back to Split from Dubrovnik. Split, the second-largest city in Croatia, is a lively coastal city packed with historical and natural wonders.

On the way, stop for a few hours at Omis, also on the coast near Split, but a much smaller and more charming town.

Dubrovnik – Omis: 3 h, 205 km

Omis

The historic center of Omis itself is worth a stroll, looking around the old-style houses, the banks of the Cetina and the coast. However, its most famous attraction is the Mirabela Fortress.

Mirabela Fortress

Mirabela Fortress (Peovica), the main attraction of Omis, is a 13th century fortress with breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea, the city and the Cetina River. Steps lead up from the historic part of the town, and you can continue your journey after paying a few euros for admission. The stairs are not long, however, and there are plenty of places to stop and take photos. The fortress at the top and the panorama from the small terraces along the way are well worth the effort.

After visiting the main sights in Omis, continue on to Split, where there is also plenty to do.

Omis – Split: 40 min, 25 km

Split

Your afternoon and evening will be well-spent wandering through Split’s old town. The historic sights are all close together, within a short walk. The standout sites include:

Diocletian’s Palace

This 3rd-century palace is at the heart of Split, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a remarkable example of Roman architecture and truly a must-visit in Split.

Saint Domnius Cathedral

The Saint Domnius Cathedral, set on the site of a former Roman emperor’s tomb, is known for its towering bell tower. Visitors can explore its ancient walls and interior art, making it a significant landmark in Split’s history.

Venetian Tower and Trg braće Radić Square

When walking around the old town of Split, it is worth stopping to admire the 15th century Venetian Tower and the interesting square in front of it.

Spend the evening in Split, enjoying the city’s coastline, the delicious Dalmatian dishes and the vibrant nightlife.

Day 7: Split, Trogir

Day 7 of our 8-day Croatia itinerary is also dedicated to Split and its surroundings.

There is plenty to do in Split, so half a day is not enough. Other attractions await, such as:

Marjan Forest Park

At the city’s western tip, you can discover this huge park. It’s particularly recommended for the exceptional panorama that you can enjoy while walking in the park.

Our favorite place here is Viewpoint to Marjan, featuring a large viewing platform. It offers a breathtaking view of Split’s old town, the sea, and the surrounding mountains.

The trees have become somewhat overgrown in recent years; hopefully, the city council is working on clearing them to improve the view.

Beaches in Split

Split also has several famous beaches.

If you are looking for beaches in Split, Kasjuni Beach, Žnjan City Beach and Bacvice Beach are worth a visit.

Shopping in Split

If you are interested in shopping, Split has the best places to do it.

For shopping in the city, we recommend the Mall of Split or City Center one Split.

If you are looking for a shorter trip from Split, we highly recommend Trogir, which is only a short drive from Split. Exploring Trogir can easily be completed in a few hours, making it an ideal addition to the itinerary for day 7.

Trogir

Trogir is a captivating UNESCO World Heritage-listed town situated on a small island, which is connected by bridges to both the Croatian mainland and the island of Čiovo.

Just a 35-minute drive from Split, Trogir’s old town mesmerizes visitors with its preserved medieval architecture, quaint cobbled streets, and a scenic waterfront.

While exploring Trogir, make sure to visit St. Lawrence’s Cathedral, as well as the Church and Monastery of St. Dominic, located right on the waterfront — undeniably the town’s most photogenic spot.

Day 8: Back to Zagreb

On the final day of the 8-day Croatia itinerary, we circle back to Zagreb, the starting point of our journey.

Split – Zagreb: 4 h, 410 km

If there are spots in or around Split or en route back that you haven’t explored yet, now’s your chance.

Additionally, we have a few suggestions for stops along the way that might not have crossed your mind:

Cetina River Spring

The spring of the Cetina River is a breathtaking spot you might have seen on social media.

It’s a small lake, created by a deep spring, which gives birth to the Cetina River. This small lake is also referred to as”The Eye of the Earth”.

The Cetina River eventually meets the sea at Omis, so perhaps you’ve seen its other end if you’ve visited Omis.

The spring is located near the small village of Cetina, in a quite isolated part of Croatia. You can reach it by car, driving along lengthy and winding roads. Therefore, it’s important to plan your visit carefully to ensure it fits into your day.

Swimming in the lake is not allowed, and the water is known to be very cold. If you’re looking to discover less crowded spots in Croatia and enjoy some peaceful time in nature, a visit to the Cetina River Spring could be a great choice.

Zrmanja Canyon

Zrmanja Canyon is a breathtaking canyon carved by the Zrmanja River, located near the city of Zadar. This destination is a fantastic option for those looking to further immerse themselves in the unique natural wonders of Croatia.

The canyon features pristine blue-green waters, contrasting beautifully with the surrounding reddish rocks and untouched nature, creating a photogenic and serene setting perfect for both capturing memorable moments and unwinding.

Although there are several lookouts in the canyon, for the best views we recommend Pariževačka glavica. Accessible from the A1 highway with a short detour, it is only necessary to drive or walk the last part of the way on a more difficult, rocky section.

Zrmanja Canyon is also one of Croatia’s less frequented tourist destinations, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle.

For those seeking more adventurous activities, some stretches of the Zrmanja River provide opportunities for boat tours, rafting, and kayaking, ensuring a thrilling experience amidst the stunning natural beauty of the area.

So, on the last day, you will make your way back to Zagreb, bringing your 8-day Croatian holiday to a close.

More suggestions for extending your 8-day trip to Croatia

Although we’ve made a number of suggestions on how to make your 8-day trip more meaningful or even how to add some extra highlights in and around Croatia, we’ve still missed some parts of Croatia that might be worth visiting on an even longer trip.

One such area is the Istrian peninsula, with a particular focus on Pula and Rovinj.

These towns are steeped in history and culture, offering a mix of stunning coastline and Roman architectural marvels.

To explore the Istrian Peninsula, we recommend at least 2 extra days, as there are many hours of extra travel to be expected.

The distances are as follows if you travel from Split to Pula and from Pula back to Zagreb:

Split – Pula: 5 h 20 min, 520 km

Pula – Zagreb: 3 h 10 min, 270 km

So, it is worth considering and planning for a 10-day trip accordingly.

If you prefer a more relaxed pace, with additional time for relaxation, sightseeing, visiting more islands, or exploring foreign attractions (such as Kotor or Mostar), we recommend our comprehensive 14-day itinerary.

In conclusion, Croatia is one of Europe’s most picturesque destinations with its breathtaking scenery, historic towns and beautiful blue sea.

We hope that with this 8-day Croatia itinerary, we have made your trip planning easier and inspired you with the most memorable moments.

However you tailor your itinerary, we are sure that Croatia will provide you with an amazing experience.

Alternatively, if you’re planning a longer trip to Croatia and its surroundings, read our next article about a 14-day Croatia road trip!