12-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania With Itinerary from Split to Dubrovnik, Podgorica, Shkoder, Kotor, Metković, and Zadar

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania. Today's main destinations are Split in Croatia, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Dubrovnik. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Split today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Kašjuni Beach. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,872 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Diocletian's Palace. This incredible attraction and palace holds an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to 77,945 visitors.

According to travelers in Split, the extraordinary Golden Gate is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and historical landmark is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,927 visitors.

As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible museum, Archaeological Museum In Split. Up to 795 visitors have rated it an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Dubrovnik. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania by rewarding yourself with a taste of Dubrovnik’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Make sure to reserve a table at Lucin Kantun Dubrovnik, an iconic dining spot in Dubrovnik. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Portun, a popular restaurant in Dubrovnik. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of TuttoBene Pizzeria & Fast Food, a hidden gem nestled in Dubrovnik. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Promenada, known for its lively atmosphere. Sports Pub Mario is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Caffe-bar Van offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your multi-country journey across Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Dubrovnik in Croatia and Danilovgrad Municipality in Montenegro. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Podgorica where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Lovrijenac. This outstanding castle and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 8,375 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Lovrijenac is worth pages in your travel diary.

Set your GPS to Danilovgrad Municipality, Montenegro and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 17 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Danilovgrad Municipality beckons with new experiences!

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Bosanka today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Porat Dubrovnik. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,739 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Dubrovnik Cable Car. This incredible attraction and point of interest holds an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, thanks to 9,632 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Bosanka, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Set course for Montenegro! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Danilovgrad Municipality may take around 2 hours 17 min. Upon your arrival in Danilovgrad Municipality, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Danilovgrad Municipality is the magnificent Ostrog Monastery. Around 13,186 visitors have rated this excellent monastery and travel destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Podgorica. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Montenegro's delectable cuisine at one of Podgorica's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Make sure to reserve a table at Forum, an iconic dining spot in Podgorica. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Grill Beli, a popular restaurant in Podgorica. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Masala Art, a hidden gem nestled in Podgorica. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Welder Pub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Kokotov Rep, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, München Bierhaus | Pub München provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Celebrate day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 4 of your multi-country road trip across Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Bërdicë e Sipërme in Albania. In the evening, you’ll end up in Shkoder, where you will stay for 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Bërdicë e Sipërme, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Shkoder. Your travel time is around 15 min.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Bërdicë e Sipërme is the magnificent Rozafa Castle. Around 3,853 visitors have rated this excellent castle and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bërdicë e Sipërme and set your GPS to Shkoder. 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 15 min. Upon reaching Shkoder, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Something that makes Shkoder the perfect holiday destination is that the village offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding street, Kole Idromeno Street. This local gem has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 152 visitors.

The famous "marubi" National Museum Of Photography. Is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Shkoder's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 510 travelers have rated this incredible museum and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Shkoder is also home to the extraordinary Xhamia E Madhe - Ebu Bekr Mosque, which boasts a 4.6 out of 5 star rating in 534 traveler reviews.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Shkoder. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Shkoder boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Albania.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant PURI, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bar Restaurant Elita? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Fisi Restaurant - Traditional Food as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Shkoder.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Fontana, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

On day 5 of your European tour in Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania, you’ll start and end your day in Shkoder, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Shkoder for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Shkoder in Albania to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Mesi Bridge is a travelers’ favorite in Shkoder, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,253 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Shkoder and set your GPS to Shirq. 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 36 min. Upon reaching Shirq, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated nature reserve and attraction in Shirq — Buna River - Velipoja. About 697 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Shirq and set your GPS to Velipojë. 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 25 min. Upon reaching Velipojë, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Velipoja Beach is a travelers’ favorite in Velipojë, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 294 visitors.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Shkoder boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Albania.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Pasta e Vino, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Vila Bekteshi Restorant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Pasta te Zenga. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Shkoder tonight.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania! Enjoy your evening in Shkoder to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.

On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Tomba in Montenegro. When you’re not exploring the town and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Kotor, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Tomba, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Shkoder to Tomba may take around 1 hour 4 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Tomba, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Tomba is the fantastic Stara Maslina. As an appreciated monument and local gem in the area, Stara Maslina has earned an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,621 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Tomba, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Stari Bar. This drive usually takes around 5 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Stari Bar is the magnificent Old Town Bar. Around 996 visitors have rated this excellent archeological site and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Fortress Old Bar on this leg of your adventure in Montenegro. This attraction is a well-known castle that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from around 5,125 travelers.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Budva. This drive usually takes around 1 hour, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

In Budva, the extraordinary Budva Riviera awaits. This attraction is a valued beach that boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,286 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Budva is the spectacular Jaz Beach. This attraction is a beach that is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,678 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Kotor of your choice.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Kotor. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania.

Have a fantastic dining experience at La Catedrale Pasta Bar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Mondo offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Historic Boutique Hotel Cattaro is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Kotor.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Jazz Club Evergreen, known for its inviting atmosphere. Old Winery Wine Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Patisserie By Wine House provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania! Enjoy your evening in Kotor to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the town center, or simply relaxing.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Kotor in Montenegro. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Metković, your home for 1 night.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Kotor is the fantastic St. Tryphon's Cathedral. As an appreciated church and local gem in the area, St. Tryphon's Cathedral has earned an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,310 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Kampana Tower. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,430 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Kotor Fortress, a standout castle and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,024 reviewers.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Herceg Novi, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Kotor to Herceg Novi may take around 1 hour 2 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Herceg Novi, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Herceg Novi, including the outstanding Old Town. Having an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 9,414 reviews, this fascinating historical landmark and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the town.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Metković’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Metković. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Croatia in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Pizzeria MARINO, a top-rated dining spot in Metković. If you're in the mood for something new, try Pizzeria Milano, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Konoba Lanterna. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Metković.

Keep the evening going at Carpe Diem Cafe, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Kave Bar Mb By Zvonko, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

Take in the ambiance of Metković as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!

Day 9 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Zadar. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 2 nights more before hitting the road again.

A tour of Zadar is not complete without a visit to the famous Monument To The Sun. This incredible art installation and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,953 travelers.

Make the most of your Zadar travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Sea Organ. This art installation and unique destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 58,697 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Roman Forum for an experience worth remembering. This local archeological site and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,872 visitors.

If you want to discover more, consider stopping by the famous Queen Jelena Madijevka Park. This amazing site is a wonderful park with more than 2,314 wanderlust-filled travelers rating it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Zadar. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Pirate Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Caffe Bar Bizarre is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Backstage Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

Wake up to day 10 of your extraordinary road trip through Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Zadar in Croatia. With 1 night left in Zadar, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated market and attraction in Zadar — Market Zadar. About 7,813 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

The popular Narodni Trg is another top sight in Zadar that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved public square in the area, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,796 visitors.

Kolovare Beach is a spectacular beach and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Zadar, earning an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 6,560 enchanted visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Zadar, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Šibenik. Your travel time is around 1 hour 2 min.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Šibenik is the magnificent Šibenik Cathedral. Around 7,654 visitors have rated this excellent church and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing St. Nicholas’ Fortress on this leg of your adventure in Croatia. This attraction is a well-known castle that has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from around 1,888 travelers.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Zadar. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Croatia in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.

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

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

Celebrate day 10 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 11 of your multi-country journey across Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Split where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Something that makes Grad Skradin the perfect holiday destination is that the town offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding national park, Krka National Park. This local gem has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 59,505 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Grad Skradin, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Primošten. Your travel time is around 59 min.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Grad Skradin is the fantastic Skradinski Buk. As an appreciated waterfall and local gem in the area, Skradinski Buk has earned an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,649 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Grad Skradin, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Primošten. Your travel time is around 59 min.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Primošten today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Beach Mala Raduča. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,361 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Statue Of Our Lady Of Loreto. This incredible attraction and monument holds an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars, thanks to 3,398 visitors.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Split. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Split. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Split by reserving a table at Šug. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional regional menu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider DeListes restaurant Split, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

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

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!