7-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dubrovnik traveling north to Makarska, Lika-Senj County, Lovinac, and Split
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 7-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, 1 night in Lika-Senj County, 1 night in Lovinac, 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 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. Plitvice Lakes National Park and Diocletian's Palace are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Sea Organ, learn more about the unique Krka National Park, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Marjan.
As you hit the open road and drive through Dubrovnik, Bosanka, Makarska, Zadar, Lika-Senj County, Smiljan, Perušić, Korenica, Lovinac, Ivoševci, Bogatić, Grad Skradin, Split, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Dubrovnik - Arrival day
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- Lapad
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Your road trip adventure in Croatia begins as soon as you reach Dubrovnik and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Dubrovnik for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
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.
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.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Promenada, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Sports Pub Mario is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Caffe-bar Van is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-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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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Bosanka and Dubrovnik, 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 Makarska. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Next, go to Porat Dubrovnik.
After visiting Dubrovnik Cable Car and Porat Dubrovnik, have a stroll along Dubrovnik's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Lovrijenac. This romantic castle offers a unique experience.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Makarska. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Makarska's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Dine in style at Restaurant Riva | RIVA - MAKARSKA d. O. O. , a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Bonaca boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Konoba Novak. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Makarska.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Caffe Bar Smile after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Makarano Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Sól Lounge Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Say good night to Makarska and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 3
- Makarska
- Lika-Senj
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Drive 319 km, 3 hours 40 min
- Market Zadar
- People's Square
- Church of St. Donatus
- Sea organ
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Zadar. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lika-Senj County, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Makarska, including a market, a public square, a church, an art installation and much more! Start your day at Market Zadar. This instagrammable market is an underrated place to see in Makarska. Then, wander over to Narodni Trg. If romantic sites excite you, this public square will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Church Of St. Donatus. This heritage-rich church is a favorite among visitors.
Makarska offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Sea Organ is an astonishing spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Lika-Senj County. Lika-Senj County 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 Lika-Senj County. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Highlanders pub, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kavana Milinković offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lika-Senj County.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Caffe Bar Fortuna, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Caffe Bar Amadeus is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Caffe Bar Bevanda also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!
Day 4
- Lika-Senj
- Lovinac
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Drive 157 km, 2 hours 50 min
- Nikola Tesla Memorial Center
- Grabovača
- Plitvice Lakes National Park
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Smiljan, Perušić, and Korenica. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lovinac. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today's adventure in Lika-Senj County promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Nikola Tesla Memorial Center. This heritage-rich museum is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy Grabovača, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Plitvice Lakes National Park, one of the village’s most globally renowned attractions, known for its serene features.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Lovinac, 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 Lovinac. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the village, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Croatia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Lovinac
- Split
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Drive 233 km, 4 hours 10 min
- Burnum - principum
- Roski waterfall
- Krka National Park
- Skradinski buk
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On day 5 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 Ivoševci, Bogatić, and Grad Skradin. In the evening, you’ll end up in Split, where you will stay for 1 night.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots in the charming village of Lovinac. Your adventure starts at Burnum - Principum, a frequently visited local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Roski Waterfall. This often recommended waterfall is known for its picture-perfect appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Lovinac's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Krka National Park. This stunning national park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Skradinski Buk is also worth visiting.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Split. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Split's best restaurants.
Start your culinary exploration in Split by securing a reservation at Šug. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of regional cuisine. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Perivoj restoran i kavana, a popular restaurant in Split. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. La Linea is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Fabrique Pub offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!
Day 6
- Split
- Dubrovnik
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Drive 243 km, 3 hours 35 min
- Diocletian's Palace
- Golden Gate
- Forest Park Marjan
- Trsteno Arboretum
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On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Split and Trsteno. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Dubrovnik, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Start by visiting Diocletian's Palace, a prime spot to begin your journey. This grand palace is sure to impress. Next on your list is Golden Gate, another must-visit landmark and curiosity-inducing historical landmark renowned for its heritage-rich features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Split by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Marjan. This romantic park is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Split experience. We also recommend visiting Trsteno Arboretum, an increasingly popular botanical garden.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Dubrovnik. Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik, 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Taverna Loggia, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Maskeron offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Magellan, Restaurant & Caffe Bar is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Dubrovnik.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Caffe & Night Bar Amor offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Celtic Bar Belfast Dubrovnik is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Seven Sins is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!
Day 7
- Dubrovnik - Departure day
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- Forest Park Velika and Mala Petka
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Day 7 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 underrated park is a popular place to see in the city.
Maximize your last day in Croatia and go on a shopping spree in Dubrovnik’s shopping center, the lively Kalelarga. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey 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.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Taj Mahal hotel Lero, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
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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