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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Zadar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Zadar, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Zadar, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Metković to Zadar may take around 2 hours 37 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Zadar, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Sea Organ, an extraordinary art installation that everyone visiting Zadar should see. Next, head to Monument To The Sun. This romantic art installation is one of the most underrated attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Roman Forum, a culturally significant archeological site popular among locals as well as travelers. Church Of St. Donatus is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this increasingly popular church before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Zadar. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Pizzeria Šime, a top-rated dining spot in Zadar. If you're in the mood for something new, try Harvatski restorant "Galiya", another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zadar.

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

Head back to your accommodation in Zadar and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia.

Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Zadar has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Zadar.

Market Zadar is an ideal stop early in the day. This curiosity-inducing market is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Narodni Trg, which may be one of the most history-steeped places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Zadar on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Queen Jelena Madijevka Park, an increasingly popular park in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for The Five Wells Square and Kolovare Beach.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Croatia. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Zadar's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a highly-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're eager to try something different, consider Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant 2Ribara. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Pirate Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Caffe Bar Bizarre, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Backstage Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

Day 7 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Dubrovnik. You’ll stay in Zagreb for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

One of the most iconic spots you can visit today is Upper Town (Gornji Grad). Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Your adventure in Zagreb is only getting started when you visit Bundek, a captivating local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Stone Gate. This underrated historical landmark is known for its majestic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Zagreb's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Ban Josip Jelačić Statue. This noteworthy monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Zagreb Cathedral is also worth visiting.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Croatia. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Zagreb's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restoran Taurus, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Trilogija - Vino & Kuhinja? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Pizzeria Park as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Zagreb.

Continue your lively evening at Krolo, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Kavana Corso is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Valhalla Beer Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 8 of your road trip in Croatia, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Zagreb are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Karlovac County, where you will stay for 1 night.

Awaiting your discovery is the locally appreciated Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb, a romantic performing arts theater in Zagreb. Next, go to Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb.

After visiting Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb and Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb, have a stroll along Zagreb's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Technical Museum. This heritage-rich museum offers a unique experience.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Karlovac County. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Dine in style at Pizzeria Tiffany Karlovac, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Ćevabdžinica Behar boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Konoba Črni kos. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Karlovac County.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Plitvica Selo, Korenica, and Smiljan. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lika-Senj County, where will spend 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Plitvica Selo. This car ride takes around 1 hour 18 min.

Savor the day by heading to Great Waterfall, a beloved waterfall that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Plitvica Selo, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Korenica. This drive usually takes around 13 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Plitvice Lakes National Park. Spend some time admiring the serene features of the national park before you continue to your next stop.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Smiljan. This car ride takes around 1 hour 19 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Nikola Tesla Memorial Center, an underrated museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

Lika-Senj County is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Lika-Senj County.

Make sure to reserve a table at The Highlanders pub, an iconic dining spot in Lika-Senj County. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Kavana Milinković, a popular restaurant in Lika-Senj County. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav, a hidden gem nestled in Lika-Senj County. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the evening going at Caffe Bar Fortuna, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Caffe Bar Amadeus, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Caffe Bar Bevanda, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Split. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Split, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lika-Senj County, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Split. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 20 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Split is Marjan, a popular park that draws attention for its idyllic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Kašjuni Beach, an instagrammable beach that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Diocletian's Palace, a famous palace that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Golden Gate, a nearby historical landmark, highly recommended by other travelers.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Split. Split offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Split's best restaurants.

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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, La Linea provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Fabrique Pub offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

On day 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Ston, Trsteno, and Dubrovnik. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Dubrovnik, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Trsteno and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 33 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Trsteno beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready for some sights, head to Stonske Zidine, a worthwhile historical landmark in Ston. Explore its majestic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Kaštio Fort. This increasingly popular castle is a top recommendation in the area.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Trsteno. This drive usually takes around 33 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Trsteno Arboretum is a beloved botanical garden we recommend visiting today. Discover its standout features before continuing your self-guided tour.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Dubrovnik may take around 24 min. Upon your arrival in Dubrovnik, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Bellevue Beach, a locally appreciated beach that everyone visiting Dubrovnik should see.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Dubrovnik. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at Taverna Loggia, a top-rated dining destination in Dubrovnik. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Maskeron, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Magellan, Restaurant & Caffe Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dubrovnik this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Caffe & Night Bar Amor after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Celtic Bar Belfast Dubrovnik for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Seven Sins is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!