8-Day Croatia Road Trip: Zadar, Beaches & National Parks
Explore Croatia in 78 days! Discover hidden beaches, rugged landscapes & Paklenica’s peaks on a scenic road trip from Zadar. Plan your adventure now!
A GOOD MIXEUROPEMIDDLE
About
A 7-day road trip from Zadar, designed for travelers seeking unspoiled nature, rugged coastlines, and hidden beaches away from the crowds. This itinerary takes you through some of Croatia’s most breathtaking landscapes, from the lunar-like terrain of Pag to the towering cliffs of Paklenica. You'll experience crystal-clear waters, charming coastal villages, and some of the country’s best-kept secrets. Get ready for an adventure filled with scenic drives, refreshing swims, and incredible hiking spots.
Trip Summary
PICKY
DAY 1 - Flight & Arrival
Rent a car, visit Nin & Vir for secluded beaches. Evening in Zadar.
DAY 2 - Drive to Pag
Explore Pag’s wild beaches like Ručica and Beritnica. Sunset in town.
DAY 3 - More Pag Exploration
Discover hidden bays like Caska & Veli Žal. Relax on Šimuni Beach.
DAY 4 - Paklenica National Park
Trekking in Velika Paklenica Canyon. Relax on Kulina Beach.
DAY 5 - Krka National Park
Swim near Skradinski Buk, visit Roški Slap. Primošten for sunset.
DAY 6 - Biokovo & Makarska
Drive up to Skywalk, unwind at Nugal Beach.
DAY 7 - Last Swim & Departure
Morning on Jaz Beach before heading back to Zadar.
DAY 8 - Flight
Enjoy (...) your flight back home
$470
$990
More Fancy
Budget Buddies
Price Summary
Per person, based on a 2 persons' trip - flights excluded
Accomodation
Around $20-40 per night
Food
Depending on your stomach
Transfers
Car rental
Experiences
Boat Tours, Park fees, ...
$180-360
$80-280
$140-210
$70-140
How are prices calculated?
Gallery
When To Go
April to June
Spring brings pleasant temperatures (18-28°C), making it perfect for exploring nature and enjoying the beaches before the summer rush. The sea starts warming up in May.
Juky to August
Peak summer means hot temperatures (28-35°C), ideal for swimming but also the busiest and most expensive period. Some beaches may get crowded, but early mornings and late afternoons offer peaceful moments.
September to October
Early autumn is fantastic, with warm sea temperatures (20-30°C), fewer tourists, and perfect weather for outdoor activities like hiking and road-tripping. October can be slightly cooler but still great for travel.
November to March
Winter and early spring bring cooler temperatures (5-15°C), making swimming less appealing. However, this is the best time for crowd-free sightseeing, photography, and exploring national parks in peaceful solitude. Snowfall is rare on the coast but possible in inland areas.
Summary Recommendations:
Overall Best: May, June, and September offer the perfect balance of warm weather, manageable crowds, and lower prices.
Alternative: April and October provide a more tranquil experience with lower accommodation costs and mild weather, though the sea might be slightly cooler.
Avoid If Possible: July and August can be overcrowded and expensive, with extreme heat making some hikes less enjoyable. this period is perfect if you are just looking for a tan
Our Proposal
DAY 1
Pick up your rental car at Zadar Airport and drive to the historic town of Nin, home to Croatia’s oldest royal town and the sandy Queen’s Beach. Continue to Vir Island, where you can unwind at Duboka Draga, a secluded beach with striking red cliffs. Return to Zadar in the evening to experience the atmospheric Sea Organ and the light installation Greeting to the Sun. Enjoy a seafood dinner at a local konoba (tavern) along the waterfront.
FLIGHT & ARRIVAL
Check out some places to stay
If you rent a car, stay where you prefer around Zadar, maybe with a view on the sea
Check out some rent-a-car
We recommend a small car for better parking and narrow streets management
DAY 2
Cross the Pag Bridge, stopping for scenic views of the island’s stark, moon-like landscape. Visit Rućica Beach, an untouched paradise with turquoise waters and rocky surroundings. Hike to Beritnica Beach, known for its three giant boulders sitting in shallow waters. Spend the evening in Pag town, wandering through its charming streets and tasting its famous Paški sir (Pag cheese) paired with local wine.
DRIVE TO PAG
Check out some places to stay
we suggest to spend the night everywhere in pag but outside the party area for better relax and nature enjoyment
DAY 3
Start your morning at Plaža Caska, where ruins of an ancient Roman town lie beneath the shallow waters. Spend midday at Veli Žal, a serene pebble beach accessible by a short drive and walk. Enjoy the afternoon at Šimuni Beach, one of the best spots for snorkeling and paddleboarding. Watch the sunset with a cocktail at a beach bar in Novalja.
EXPLORE PAG'S BEACHES
DAY 4
Arrive at Velika Paklenica Canyon, where you can choose from easy walks to challenging hikes. Pack a picnic and explore the rugged limestone cliffs and dramatic landscapes. After hiking, cool off at Kulina Beach, a small hidden gem near Starigrad. Spend the night in Starigrad, a quiet coastal town at the park’s entrance.
PAKLENICA
Check out some places to stay
we suggest to spend the night in Starigrad, where you can find total relax
DAY 5
Explore the majestic Skradinski Buk, a network of cascading waterfalls where you can take a dip. Visit Roški Slap, known for its unique travertine formations and a picturesque walking trail. Stop at Primošten, a coastal town with stunning views and a relaxed Mediterranean vibe. Stay overnight near Krka or head back to Zadar for the evening.
EXPLORE KRKA
Check out some places to stay
we suggest to spend the night nearby Krka, or return to the coast or around Makarska, your next stop
DAY 6
Drive up to the Biokovo Skywalk, a glass platform offering breathtaking views over the Adriatic. Spend the afternoon at Nugal Beach, a hidden, forest-backed bay with clear waters. Wrap up the day with dinner in Makarska, a lively seaside town with excellent seafood restaurants. Drive back to Zadar or stay overnight on the Makarska Riviera.
BIOKOVO & MAKARSKA
DAY 7
Have a relaxing morning on Jaz Beach, a peaceful spot with crystal-clear waters. Return your rental car before heading to the airport for your flight home.
BACK TO ZADAR
DAY 8
Based on your schedule, enjoy (...) your flight back