One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania With Itinerary from Split to Metković, Podgorica, Shkoder, and Dubrovnik
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Embark on an unforgettable 8-day multi-country road trip across Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania! If traveling through picturesque landscapes and immersing yourself in the captivating cultures of destinations like Split, Metković, Podgorica, Stari Bar, Bërdicë e Sipërme, and Shkoder sounds like your idea of a great vacation, this iconic European tour is for you.
With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 3 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 5 nights in Croatia, 1 night in Montenegro, and 1 night in Albania.
In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of Croatia, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Split and begin your adventure from there. Explore Split, Metković, Dubrovnik, and Bosanka, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.
Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of Montenegro. Immerse yourself in the allure of Podgorica, Stari Bar, and Kotor, where every street tells a story.
Continuing your journey, you'll step into the captivating realm of Albania. This country's charm is boundless, and you'll be impressed by the wonders of Bërdicë e Sipërme and Shkoder.
Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Podgorica’s Independence Square and Bërdicë e Sipërme's iconic Rozafa Castle. From must-see attractions to breathtaking viewpoints, this meticulously crafted itinerary promises you a glimpse into the unique features of this region in Europe.
Throughout your tour, you’ll stay at some of the best accommodations along your route. Our recommendations always include options with varying levels of comfort, ranging from 3 to 5-star hotels that cater to various preferences and budgets.
Your ultimate multi-country road trip across Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania will not be complete without indulging in some retail therapy! Embark on a quest for a rare souvenir in each destination. Beyond the thrill of buying unique goods, it’s also an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in local customs and interact with friendly locals at every stop.
By booking this holiday package, you can save yourself from the tedious task of researching and planning your road trip in Europe. We'll handle all the travel arrangements for your 8-day self-drive adventure in Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania. With our expertise, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience and focus on immersing yourself in incredible destinations without the stress of organizing every detail. This holiday deal also comes with 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide accessible via our mobile app to assist you throughout your journey.
Discover breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and iconic landmarks in multiple European countries on one epic road trip! Travel across borders and experience the freedom of the open road as you create lifelong memories in Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania.
Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Split - Arrival day
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- Forest Park Marjan
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Split in Croatia. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Split for 1 night.
Catch an early flight to Croatia to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Split before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.
One place travelers keep coming back to in Split is the magnificent Marjan. Around 12,622 visitors have rated this excellent park and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.
Find your way to your hotel in Split. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania by rewarding yourself with a taste of Split’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Nevera Tavern, a highly-rated dining destination in Split. If you're eager to try something different, consider Perivoj restoran i kavana, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Konoba Laganini. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Split this evening.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out La Linea, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Fabrique Pub. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Your multi-country road trip in Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.
Day 2
- Split
- Metković
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Drive 152 km, 2 hours 11 min
- Golden Gate
- Diocletian's Palace
- Diocletian's Cellars
- Old Town Hall
- Kašjuni Beach
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On day 2 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Split in Croatia. When you’re not exploring the town and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Metković, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Golden Gate. This outstanding historical landmark and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 1,927 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Golden Gate is worth pages in your travel diary.
The fascinating Diocletian's Palace is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This palace and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 77,945 travelers.
This day is also your chance to see the amazing archeological site, Diocletian's Cellars. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 928 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.
The top-rated Old Town Hall, an outstanding historical landmark, is one place you should visit while in Split considering its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 603 travelers.
Explore the magnificent Kašjuni Beach and discover what makes this local beach and wonder one of the best attractions in Split. This popular sightseeing destination enjoys a rating of 4.4 stars out of 5 from 2,872 travelers.
After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Metković of your choice.
In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Metković’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the town’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Pizzeria MARINO, a top-rated dining spot in Metković. If you're in the mood for something new, try Pizzeria Milano, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Konoba Lanterna. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Metković.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Carpe Diem Cafe, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Kave Bar Mb By Zvonko offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.
As the night falls in Metković, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.
Day 3
- Metković
- Podgorica
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Drive 224 km, 4 hours 35 min
- Ostrog Orthodox Monastery
- Orthodox Temple of Christ's Resurrection
- Independence Square
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On day 3 of your multi-country road trip across Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania, 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 to see in Danilovgrad Municipality in Montenegro. In the evening, you’ll end up in Podgorica, where you will stay for 1 night.
When you’ve had your share of Metković, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Danilovgrad Municipality, Montenegro. Your travel time is around 3 hours 14 min.
You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Danilovgrad Municipality, including the outstanding Ostrog Monastery. Having an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 13,186 reviews, this fascinating monastery and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the region.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Danilovgrad Municipality, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Podgorica may take around 59 min. Upon your arrival in Podgorica, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Podgorica today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Orthodox Temple Of Christ's Resurrection. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,357 visitors.
Next, discover the charms of the popular Independence Square. This incredible attraction and public square holds an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars, thanks to 1,429 visitors.
After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Podgorica. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.
As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Podgorica. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Forum, a highly-rated dining destination in Podgorica. If you're eager to try something different, consider Grill Beli, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Masala Art. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Podgorica this evening.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Welder Pub, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Kokotov Rep. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at München Bierhaus | Pub München, another top-rated place in the area.
Celebrate day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4
- Podgorica
- Bërdicë e Sipërme
- Shkoder
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Drive 71 km, 1 hour 50 min
- Shkodra Castle
- Marubi" National Museum of Photography
- Vendi i Deshmisë dhe Kujtesës - Site of Witness and Memory
- Xhamia e Madhe - Ebu Bekr mosque
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your multi-country journey across Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Bërdicë e Sipërme in Albania. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Shkoder where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.
Set your GPS to Shkoder and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 13 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Shkoder beckons with new experiences!
Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Bërdicë e Sipërme today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Rozafa Castle. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,853 visitors.
Set your GPS to Shkoder and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 13 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Shkoder beckons with new experiences!
One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable "marubi" National Museum Of Photography. This outstanding museum and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 510 travelers, a visit to the remarkable "marubi" National Museum Of Photography. Is worth pages in your travel diary.
The fascinating Site Of Witness And Memory is another of the village's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This museum and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 115 travelers.
This day is also your chance to see the amazing mosque, Xhamia E Madhe - Ebu Bekr Mosque. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 534 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Shkoder, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Bërdicë e Sipërme to Shkoder may take around 13 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Shkoder, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.
An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Shkoder’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.
As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Shkoder boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Albania.
Savor the flavors at Restaurant PURI, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bar Restaurant Elita beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Fisi Restaurant - Traditional Food. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Shkoder tonight.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar Fontana, a prime location for a drink.
Take in the ambiance of Shkoder as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!
Day 5
- Shkoder
- Stari Bar
- Kotor
- Dubrovnik
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Drive 203 km, 4 hours 27 min
- Fortress Old Bar
- Kotor Fortress
- San Giovanni
- Kampana Tower
- Xhamia e Madhe - Ebu Bekr mosque
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Stari Bar in Montenegro. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dubrovnik, your home for 2 nights.
After soaking in Shkoder’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Stari Bar, Montenegro. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 7 min. When you arrive in Stari Bar, it's time to take a break from the road.
A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Stari Bar is the fantastic Fortress Old Bar. As an appreciated castle and local gem in the area, Fortress Old Bar has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,125 reviews.
When you’ve had your share of Stari Bar, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Kotor. Your travel time is around 1 hour 23 min.
A tour of Kotor is not complete without a visit to the famous Kotor Fortress. This incredible castle and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,024 travelers.
Make the most of your Kotor travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful San Giovanni. This church and unique destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,263 travelers.
You can then move on to the incredible Kampana Tower for an experience worth remembering. This local monument and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,430 visitors.
After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Dubrovnik. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.
As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Dubrovnik. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Croatia in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.
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.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Promenada, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Sports Pub Mario provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Caffe-bar Van offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!
Day 6
- Dubrovnik
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Drive 5 km, 23 min
- Fort Lovrijenac
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Day 6 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Bosanka. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.
You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Dubrovnik, including the outstanding Lovrijenac. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,375 reviews, this fascinating castle and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the village.
Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Croatia's delectable cuisine at one of Dubrovnik's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.
Savor the flavors at Taverna Loggia, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Maskeron beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Magellan, Restaurant & Caffe Bar. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Dubrovnik tonight.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Caffe & Night Bar Amor after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Celtic Bar Belfast Dubrovnik, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Seven Sins also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
As the night falls in Dubrovnik, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.
Day 7
- Dubrovnik
- Bosanka
- Split
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Drive 247 km, 3 hours 34 min
- Plaža Sveti Jakov
- Fort Lovrijenac
- Onofrio's Large Fountain
- Forest Park Velika and Mala Petka
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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania. Today's main destinations are Bosanka in Croatia, 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.
In Dubrovnik, the extraordinary Onofrio Fountain awaits. This attraction is a valued monument that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,138 travelers' reviews.
Another of the best travel destinations in Dubrovnik is the spectacular Velika And Mala Petka Forest Park. This attraction is a park that is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,686 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Dubrovnik. This drive usually takes around 8 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Plaža Sveti Jakov. This outstanding beach and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 from 1,516 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Plaža Sveti Jakov is worth pages in your travel diary.
Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Split. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.
As the sun sets on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Split's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Croatia to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Split has them.
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 DeListes restaurant Split, a popular restaurant in Split. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Caffe Bar Mythos, known for its inviting atmosphere. Caffe Bar Legis is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Caffe Bar Tik provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!
Day 8
- Split - Departure day
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- West Bank
- Diocletian's Palace
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On day 8 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Split before it’s time to leave.
Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.
As your final day in Croatia unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Split's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Croatia.
West Bank is a travelers’ favorite in Split, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,356 visitors.
Get a last taste of Croatia’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Split and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania.
Savor the flavors at Villa Spiza, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Kadena beckons with its unique menu offerings.
The time has come to say farewell to Split for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 8-day European road trip in Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania with fond memories. Safe travels!
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