12-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dubrovnik to Metković, Zadar, Lika-Senj County, Šibenik, and Split

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Dubrovnik and Bosanka. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Metković. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s agenda in Dubrovnik includes a park and a castle. Velika And Mala Petka Forest Park is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Lovrijenac, an up-and-coming castle, located just a leisurely stroll away.

When you arrive in Bosanka, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your self-guided tour starts at Lokrum, a curiosity-inducing nature reserve that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Plaža Sveti Jakov and admire its romantic features.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Metković. Metković offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Metković. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Pizzeria MARINO, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Pizzeria Milano offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Konoba Lanterna is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Metković.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Carpe Diem Cafe after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Kave Bar Mb By Zvonko, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!

On day 4 of your road trip in Croatia, 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 in Grad Biograd na Moru and Zadar. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zadar, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Grad Biograd na Moru. This car ride takes around 2 hours 25 min.

Take your self-guided tour to Town Of Biograd, a curiosity-inducing city hall that everyone visiting Grad Biograd na Moru should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Plaža Soline. This serene beach is one of the most frequently visited attractions in the region.

Zadar’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Grad Biograd na Moru behind. This drive usually takes around 36 min. Zadar welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Kolovare Beach, a curiosity-inducing beach known for its majestic features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Sea Organ, a spectacular art installation that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Monument To The Sun and uncover the details of this noteworthy art installation.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Zadar, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Zadar. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Pizzeria Šime, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Harvatski restorant "Galiya" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restoran Zadar - Jadera. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zadar.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Yachting Bar & Club, known for its inviting atmosphere. Caffe Bar Porthos is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Factory Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Zadar has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Zadar by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Zadar is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Queen Jelena Madijevka Park, a locally appreciated park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Narodni Trg, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Market Zadar. This market is one of the city’s most often recommended spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Zadar at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Church Of St. Donatus. After exploring the church, head to the frequently visited Roman Forum. This archeological site will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Croatia is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Zadar. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Pirate Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Caffe Bar Bizarre, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Backstage Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Croatia.

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Jablanac, Smiljan, and Žabica. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lika-Senj County, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

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

Make your way to Zavratnica Cove, a worthwhile canyon that draws attention for its standout features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Jablanac and set your GPS to Smiljan. 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 5 min. Upon reaching Smiljan, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Nikola Tesla Memorial Center is an increasingly popular museum we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its history-steeped features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Smiljan, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Žabica. This drive usually takes around 11 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Take your self-guided tour to Jasikovac, Park Suma, an underrated park that everyone visiting Žabica should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lika-Senj County. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Lika-Senj County's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at The Highlanders pub, a popular restaurant in Lika-Senj County. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Lika-Senj County at Kavana Milinković, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Lika-Senj County tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Caffe Bar Fortuna after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Caffe Bar Amadeus for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Caffe Bar Bevanda is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Croatia!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Šibenik and Split. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Split, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Šibenik on today’s itinerary. First up is the increasingly popular castle, St. Nicholas’ Fortress. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Šibenik Cathedral. A visit to this church is an enriching experience for all.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Šibenik, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Split may take around 1 hour 6 min. Upon your arrival in Split, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take your self-guided tour to Beach Bar History, a curiosity-inducing bar that everyone visiting Split should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Split, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Split's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Šug, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible regional menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Perivoj restoran i kavana is another top choice with a popular menu.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, La Linea is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Fabrique Pub is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Croatia.

On day 10 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Split. You’ll stay in Split for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Split. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Golden Gate is the perfect place to start. This historical landmark is one of the most often recommended places to visit in Split. Next, head to Diocletian's Palace, a widely recognized palace, known for its enchanting features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to West Bank. This gorgeous boardwalk offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Marjan adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to Kašjuni Beach, a mesmerizing beach in Split.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Croatia is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Split. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Babylon, a popular restaurant in Split. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. 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. A third option to check out is the top-rated Bokeria Kitchen & Wine. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Split tonight.

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.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!