Are you looking for the best Croatia road trip itinerary?
Stop right here—this is the guide for you!
Driving along Croatia’s coastline means blue waters on one side and historic towns on the other.
You’ll visit vibrant cities, stunning waterfalls, and peaceful islands—all at your own pace.
This itinerary packs the best sights, adventures, and hidden gems into one week so you can make the most of your trip.
I spent 8 days in Croatia this summer and have put together my top tips and a clear plan to help you explore without stress.
The road trip itinerary is from Split to Split. It provides road trip activities for 7 full days in Croatia, including the dates you will pick up and return your car in order to maximize time exploring.
Croatia Road Trip Itinerary
Day 1: Split
1. Airport Arrival
This Croatia itinerary begins by flying into Split Airport. You can alternatively fly into Dubrovnik or Zagreb.
It’s up to personal preference. Honestly, I would go with the best flight prices!
I do not recommend picking up your rental car on day 1 if you want to spend some time exploring Split.
The old town is extremely walkable, and there is no need to worry about where to park your car on the narrow streets, parking costs, etc.
2. Diocletian’s Palace
The heart of Split’s Old Town is Diocletian’s Palace, a sprawling Roman-era fortress filled with shops, cafes, and historic landmarks.
Wander through its narrow alleys and courtyards to soak up the blend of ancient architecture and lively modern life.
Don’t miss the Cathedral of Saint Domnius inside the palace walls, which offers access to the bell tower for panoramic city views.
3. Stroll Old Town Split
While wandering the stone streets, you can visit the open-air fruit and vegetable market near the main city gates.
It’s the perfect spot to pick up fresh local produce or try traditional snacks.
Stop by Peristyle Square, the grand courtyard of Diocletian’s Palace, where locals and tourists gather. Street performers and musicians are often performing here!
Explore the Riva promenade, a lively waterfront walkway lined with cafes and restaurants perfect for people-watching and sipping Croatian coffee or wine.
⭐For more detailed things to do in Split, read my entire 1-Day Split Itinerary.
Tip: Old Town Split is bustling! Its ginormous old town is absolutely gorgeous, but certainly comes with the price of cruise ship crowds from the port.
Plan your day accordingly.
4. Sunset at Marjan Hill
It’s time for a beautiful, panoramic sunset at the top of Marjan Hill.
It’s about a 10-minute walk up a tall flight of stairs to get to the top, but the views do not disappoint!
There’s also a restaurant at the top if you are so inclined for dinner or drinks—it’s called Teraca Vidilica.
⭐Highly Rated Split Hotels
Day 2: Krka National Park
1. Pick up Rental Car
Pick up your rental car first thing in the morning so that you may begin driving to your first destination: Krka National Park.
The drive from Split to Krka National Park takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
To beat crowds and get parking easily, plan to leave Split around 7:00 am.
This gives you plenty of time to enjoy the park during quieter morning hours.
⭐Rental Cars⭐
2. Hiking Krka National Park
Krka National Park has a spacious parking lot.
It’s actually not permitted to drive into this part of the park with your vehicle, so you will take a shuttle to and from the parking lot. Easy peasy!
Spend the day exploring scenic trails and wooden walkways that wind around waterfalls and crystal-clear pools.
Day 3: Plitvice Lakes
1. Drive to Plitvice Lakes
You can park your car in the main parking lot. There is overflow parking available.
I recommend arriving as early as possible to get a good parking spot, and avoid parking in a tight space if you can!
2. Hiking Plitvice Lakes
Plitvice Lakes National Park has some of the most vibrant, turquoise water in the world.
And it’s EVERYwhere! And it’s accessible.
I’ve visited places where the turquoise water forms in a small waterfall at the end of a long hike (like Tenorio in Costa Rica).
While natural turquoise water is objectively amazing (duh), you can see it everywhere you go in Plitvice Lakes.
Day 4: Omiš
1. Omiš Old Town
You won’t need to drive your car much in Omiš.
The Old Town and beaches are totally walkable.
You may need to use your rental car if you are driving to a meeting point for a tour (like white water rafting or ziplining) or if you are hiking Starigrad Fortress.
The Old Town is packed with history and charm. Wander its cobblestone streets lined with stone houses and small shops.
Visit the Church of St. Michael, a beautiful spot with medieval architecture and views over the town.
Stop by the lively waterfront promenade for cafes and fresh seafood.
One of my favorite things to do in Omiš is climbing to the top of Peovica Fortress. It has one of the best views in the entire city!
2. White Water Rafting
The Cetina River running through Omiš provides thrilling white water rafting opportunities.
This half-day adventure is perfect for adrenaline seekers and beginners alike, with expert guides leading you through exciting rapids surrounded by rugged canyon scenery.
3. Sunset at The Beach
End your day relaxing on Velika Plaza, a long sandy beach with crystal-clear water.
It’s popular but spacious enough to find your own spot.
Watching the sunset here is a peaceful way to reflect on the day’s adventures.
⭐Highly Rated Omis Hotels
Day 5: Omiš
1. Hike Starigrad Fortress
Starigrad Fortress towers above Omiš and requires a more demanding hike than Peovica.
The trail starts near the town’s fire station and climbs steeply through rocky paths for about 45 to 60 minutes.
The payoff is breathtaking views of the Cetina River canyon and the Adriatic Sea beyond.
Bring water and wear sturdy shoes, as the trail is exposed and can be hot during summer.
2. Drop off Rental Car in Split
Return to Split by evening to drop off your rental car.
You will spend your final day or two on Croatia’s gorgeous islands.
No need to spend the money for a car ferry—just drop the rental car off in Split, and catch a morning ferry.
⭐Highly Rated Split Hotels
Day 6: Korcula
1. Ferry From Split
Catch an early ferry from Split to Korcula to maximize your time on the island.
The ferry ride takes about two hours and offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
I use Ferry Hopper for my bookings!
⭐Ferry Hopper Tickets⭐
2. Korcula Old Town
Spend your first island day on Korcula, an island known for its medieval architecture, vineyards, and calm beaches.
The old town is often called a “mini-Dubrovnik” with fortified walls and narrow streets.
Wander through historic squares and visit St. Mark’s Cathedral, then relax at one of the local beaches or enjoy a wine tasting at one of Korcula’s family-run vineyards.
Day 7: Korcula
1. Lumbarda Vineyards
Use your second day on Korcula to explore beyond the old town.
Consider renting a bike or scooter to visit Lumbarda, a nearby village famous for its white sand beaches and local Grk wine.
Alternatively, take a boat trip around the island’s hidden coves for swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters.
2. Return Ferry to Split
In the afternoon, catch a ferry back to Split.
The return trip offers a chance to relax and enjoy the coastal scenery one last time before continuing your Croatia journey or heading home.
How to Rent a Car in Croatia
Renting a car in Croatia is easy!
An international driver’s license is not required unless your driver’s license has been issued by a country with a character language (such as Georgia or Thailand).
Renters can expect a hefty security deposit—we paid about $1,000 security deposit for a 5-day car rental.
I have never had a higher deposit fee, but we returned the car in good condition and were reimbursed immediately.
Conclusion
This Croatia road trip itinerary balances coastal cities, national parks, adventure, and island escapes.
From walking Split’s ancient streets to hiking fortress trails in Omiš and soaking up island vibes on Korcula, you’ll experience a broad taste of Croatia’s stunning landscapes and rich culture.
Rent a car for flexibility, but drop it before visiting the islands.
Plan your days to avoid crowds and maximize your time at each spot. Enjoy your Croatian adventure!
