Travel packages in Croatia

Road trips in Croatia

5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dubrovnik to Makarska and Šibenik

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Photo of aerial panoramic view at famous European travel destination, Dubrovnik cityscape on Adriatic Coast.

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through Croatia. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Croatia takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Dubrovnik, 1 night in Makarska, and 1 night in Šibenik. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Croatia. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.

Upon arriving in Dubrovnik, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Croatia on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Croatia. Diocletian's Palace and Krka National Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Marjan, learn more about the unique Skradinski Buk, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Dubrovnik Cable Car.

As you hit the open road and drive through Dubrovnik, Bosanka, Makarska, Split, Grad Skradin, Šibenik, Vid, and Trsteno, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Croatia. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Croatia.

Throughout your road trip in Croatia, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Croatia.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Croatia fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Croatia today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65

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Itinerary summary

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Days

Destination

Attractions

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Day

City & Overnight

Attractions

Day 1

Lapad

Day 2

Dubrovnik Cable Car•Porat Dubrovnik•Fort Lovrijenac

Day 3

Forest Park Marjan•Diocletian's Palace•Krka National Park•Skradinski buk

Day 4

St Nicholas’ Fortress•St. Jacob’s Cathedral•Arheološki muzej Narona•Trsteno Arboretum

Day 5

Forest Park Velika and Mala Petka

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Day 1

Dubrovnik - Arrival day
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Lapad
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Welcome to Dubrovnik, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Croatia! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Dubrovnik's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Dubrovnik is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Lapad, a must-see neighborhood, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Dubrovnik. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in 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 Dubrovnik, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Lucin Kantun Dubrovnik, a popular restaurant in Dubrovnik. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Dubrovnik at Portun, 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 TuttoBene Pizzeria & Fast Food. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Dubrovnik tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Promenada, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Sports Pub Mario offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Dubrovnik. Caffe-bar Van is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Croatia!

Day 2

Dubrovnik
Makarska
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Drive 161 km, 2 hours 52 min

Dubrovnik Cable Car
Porat Dubrovnik
Fort Lovrijenac
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On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Bosanka and Dubrovnik. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Makarska, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Dubrovnik promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Dubrovnik Cable Car. Next, head over to Lovrijenac, one of the village’s most underrated attractions, known for its culturally significant features.

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

As you explore more of Makarska, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant Riva | RIVA - MAKARSKA d. O. O. , a top-rated dining spot in Makarska. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Bonaca, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Konoba Novak. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Makarska.

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

Head back to your accommodation in Makarska and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia!

Day 3

Makarska
Šibenik
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Drive 238 km, 4 hours 21 min

Forest Park Marjan
Diocletian's Palace
Krka National Park
Skradinski buk
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On day 3 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 Split and Grad Skradin. In the evening, you’ll end up in Šibenik, where you will stay for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Makarska, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Marjan, a captivating park in the city. Then, head to Diocletian's Palace and soak in the ambiance of this history-steeped palace.

There are many interesting places to see in Makarska, and when you are ready for more, go to Krka National Park. This is one of the city’s most famous romantic spots of interest. After exploring the national park, visit the curiosity-inducing Skradinski Buk.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Šibenik, 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 Šibenik's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Start your culinary exploration in Šibenik by securing a reservation at Pelegrini. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Fry Guy, a popular restaurant in Šibenik. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

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

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

Day 4

Šibenik
Dubrovnik
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Drive 300 km, 3 hours 54 min

St Nicholas’ Fortress
St. Jacob’s Cathedral
Arheološki muzej Narona
Trsteno Arboretum
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Šibenik, Vid, and Trsteno, 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.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Šibenik, including a castle, a church, a museum, a botanical garden and much more! Start your day with a visit to St. Nicholas’ Fortress. This up-and-coming castle is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Šibenik Cathedral, which may be one of the most history-steeped places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Šibenik 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 Archaeological Museum Narona, an increasingly popular museum in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Trsteno Arboretum.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Dubrovnik. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Caffe & Night Bar Amor. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Celtic Bar Belfast Dubrovnik offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Seven Sins, another top-rated bar in the area.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Croatia!

Day 5

Dubrovnik - Departure day
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Forest Park Velika and Mala Petka
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Day 5 of your road trip in Croatia is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Dubrovnik before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Velika And Mala Petka Forest Park, a romantic park before you head out.

Make the most of your final day in Croatia by visiting Dubrovnik’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Kalelarga. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Croatia.

Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Dubrovnik.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Hotel Lapad, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Taj Mahal hotel Lero offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Shizuku -Japanese cuisine-.

You’ll then say farewell to Dubrovnik. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Croatia!

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