5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dubrovnik traveling west to Makarska and Split

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

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Croatia. You will spend 2 nights in Dubrovnik, 1 night in Makarska, and 1 night in Split. 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 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 Marjan are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Dubrovnik, Bosanka, Makarska, Veliko Brdo, Split, Ston, Trsteno, and Sustjepan, 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, accommodations, 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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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day1

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 discovering what to see in Dubrovnik before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Dubrovnik is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. 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 central location for easy access to key areas 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 delicious meal at Lucin Kantun Dubrovnik, a highly-rated dining destination in Dubrovnik. If you're eager to try something different, consider Portun, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at TuttoBene Pizzeria & Fast Food. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Dubrovnik this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Promenada, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Sports Pub Mario is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Caffe-bar Van ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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Day2

Day 2

  • Dubrovnik
  • Bosanka
  • Makarska
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Drive 161 km, 2 hours 52 min

  • Dubrovnik Cable Car
  • Porat Dubrovnik
  • Fort Lovrijenac
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Your itinerary for day 2 of your road trip in Croatia includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Bosanka and Dubrovnik. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Makarska, where you'll spend 1 night.

Lovrijenac is an ideal stop early in the day. This worthwhile castle is a must-visit in the village.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Bosanka, home to many well-known sights in the region. Upon arrival in Bosanka, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Dubrovnik Cable Car. Then, head to Porat Dubrovnik. This frequently visited point of interest is a traveler-favorite in the village.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Makarska, 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Makarska, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Riva | RIVA - MAKARSKA d.o.o., a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Bonaca offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Konoba Novak is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Makarska.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Caffe Bar Smile. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Makarano Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Sól Lounge Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day3

Day 3

  • Makarska
  • Veliko Brdo
  • Split
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Drive 95 km, 1 hour 56 min

  • St Peter Forest Park
  • Vepric - Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes
  • Forest Park Marjan
  • Golden Gate
  • Diocletian's Palace
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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 3 places, which are Makarska, Veliko Brdo, and Split. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Split, where will spend 1 night.

St. Peter Forest Park makes a great addition to your morning plans. This often recommended park is a mesmerizing place to see in Makarska.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Makarska.

Veliko Brdo’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Makarska behind. This drive usually takes around 10 min. Veliko Brdo welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Vepric - Shrine Of Our Lady Of Lourdes, an increasingly popular church in Veliko Brdo. Explore its culturally significant features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Split, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Veliko Brdo to Split may take around 1 hour 7 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Split, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Marjan and explore the eye-catching features. Next, make your way to Golden Gate, another highlight in Split. When you’re done exploring the historical landmark, continue to Diocletian's Palace, an enchanting palace.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Split by booking a table at Šug, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional regional menu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Perivoj restoran i kavana, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

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

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.

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Day4

Day 4

  • Split
  • Općina Ston
  • Trsteno
  • Sustjepan
  • Dubrovnik
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Drive 238 km, 3 hours 21 min

  • Fort Kaštio
  • Stonske zidine
  • Trsteno Arboretum
  • Franjo Tuđman Bridge
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, including Ston, Trsteno, Sustjepan, 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.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Trsteno. This car ride takes around 35 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Kaštio Fort and explore the picture-perfect features. Next, make your way to Stonske Zidine, another highlight in Ston.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Ston and set your GPS to Trsteno. 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 35 min. Upon reaching Trsteno, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Trsteno Arboretum and explore the noteworthy features.

Sustjepan’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Trsteno behind. This drive usually takes around 15 min. Sustjepan welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Franjo Tuđman Bridge, an often recommended monument in Sustjepan. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Taverna Loggia, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Maskeron? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Magellan, Restaurant & Caffe Bar as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Dubrovnik.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Caffe & Night Bar Amor, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Celtic Bar Belfast Dubrovnik is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Seven Sins also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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Day5

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, begin at Velika And Mala Petka Forest Park. This increasingly popular park is a hotspot among locals.

For a last-minute shopping spree in Dubrovnik, Kalelarga is nearby. Enjoy a variety of retail stores, dining options, and essential services in one convenient location.

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

Savor the flavors at Hotel Lapad, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Taj Mahal hotel Lero beckons with its unique menu offerings.

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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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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