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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Explore the best of Croatia on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Dubrovnik, Bosanka, Makarska, Zadar, Lika-Senj County, Smiljan, Perušić, Korenica, Lovinac, Ivoševci, Bogatić, Grad Skradin, Split, and Trsteno. This road trip itinerary in Croatia seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

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!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Lapad
Dubrovnik Cable CarPorat DubrovnikFort Lovrijenac
Market ZadarPeople's SquareChurch of St. DonatusSea organ
Nikola Tesla Memorial CenterGrabovačaPlitvice Lakes National Park
Burnum - principumRoski waterfallKrka National ParkSkradinski buk
Diocletian's PalaceGolden GateForest Park MarjanTrsteno Arboretum
Forest Park Velika and Mala Petka

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Dubrovnik - Arrival day
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  • Lapad
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Say hello to Dubrovnik! Your exciting road trip through Croatia is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Dubrovnik for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Promenada, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Sports Pub Mario, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Caffe-bar Van likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Croatia!

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Day 2

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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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Bosanka and Dubrovnik. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Makarska, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Start by visiting Dubrovnik Cable Car, a prime spot to begin your journey.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Dubrovnik by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Lovrijenac. This history-steeped castle is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Dubrovnik experience.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Riva | RIVA - MAKARSKA d. O. O. , an iconic dining spot in Makarska. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Bonaca, a popular restaurant in Makarska. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Konoba Novak, a hidden gem nestled in Makarska. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

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

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Day 3

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
  • More

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Zadar. 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.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and budget-friendly activities in Makarska. Begin your sightseeing with Market Zadar. This increasingly popular market is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Narodni Trg, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Makarska, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Church Of St. Donatus. This worthwhile church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Sea Organ, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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.

Savor the flavors at The Highlanders pub, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Kavana Milinković beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Lika-Senj County tonight.

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

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

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Day 4

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.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Lika-Senj County, including a museum, a cave system, and a national park. Start your day at Nikola Tesla Memorial Center. This instagrammable museum is an underrated place to see in Lika-Senj County. Then, wander over to Grabovača. If enchanting sites excite you, this cave system will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Plitvice Lakes National Park. This romantic national park is a favorite among visitors.

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.

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

Say good night to Lovinac and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!

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Day 5

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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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Ivoševci, Bogatić, and Grad Skradin, 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 Split. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Lovinac. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes an archeological site, a waterfall, and a national park. Begin your adventure at Burnum - Principum. This is an underrated archeological site you should not miss. Another must-see is Roski Waterfall, an up-and-coming waterfall in Lovinac.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Krka National Park. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Skradinski Buk, another of the village’s underrated attractions.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.

As you explore more of Split, 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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Split by securing a table at Šug. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional regional menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Perivoj restoran i kavana, another premier location with a delectable menu.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, La Linea is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Fabrique Pub also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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.

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Day 6

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 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 Trsteno. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dubrovnik, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Split covers several incredible sights, including a palace, a historical landmark, a park, a botanical garden and much more! Start your adventure at Diocletian's Palace. This top-rated palace is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the symbolic wonders of Golden Gate, a must-see historical landmark in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Marjan. This captivating park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Trsteno Arboretum, where you can take in romantic features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Dubrovnik. 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Taverna Loggia, a highly-rated dining destination in Dubrovnik. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant Maskeron, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Magellan, Restaurant & Caffe Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Dubrovnik this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Caffe & Night Bar Amor, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Celtic Bar Belfast Dubrovnik is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Seven Sins is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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Day 7

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, we recommend visiting Velika And Mala Petka Forest Park, an eye-catching 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.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Taj Mahal hotel Lero, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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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