One-Week Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dubrovnik to Split, Zadar, and Plitvička Jezera
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-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 3 nights in Dubrovnik, 2 nights in Split, 1 night in Zadar, and 1 night in Plitvička Jezera. 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 Marjan, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Walls Of Dubrovnik.
As you hit the open road and drive through Dubrovnik, Bosanka, Split, Bogatić, Grad Skradin, Zadar, Korenica, Plitvica Selo, Plitvička Jezera, and Trogir, 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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Day 1
- Dubrovnik - Arrival day
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- Order of Friars' Minor Capuchin Monastery - Lady of Mercy
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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 2 nights 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 Order Of Friars' Minor Capuchin Monastery - Lady Of Mercy, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Dubrovnik. 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.
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.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Promenada, known for its lively atmosphere. Sports Pub Mario is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Caffe-bar Van offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Croatia!
Day 2
- Dubrovnik
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Drive 5 km, 36 min
- Walls of Dubrovnik
- Franciscan Church and Monastery
- Sponza Palace
- Rector's Palace, Dubrovnik
- Stradun
- Old Town
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Wake up to day 2 of your extraordinary road trip in Croatia. With 1 night left in Dubrovnik, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Stradun is a street that stands out as one of the must-see places in Dubrovnik. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away. For another highlight, head to Old Town, a neighborhood offering its own unique experiences.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Dubrovnik, including a historical landmark, a monastery, and a palace. Start your day at Walls Of Dubrovnik. This visually striking historical landmark is a locally renowned place to see in Dubrovnik. Then, wander over to Franciscan Church And Monastery. If heritage-rich sites excite you, this monastery will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Sponza Palace. This historic palace is a favorite among visitors.
Dubrovnik offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Rector's Palace, Dubrovnik is a beloved spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Dubrovnik and your accommodation.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Dubrovnik's best restaurants.
Make sure to reserve a table at Taverna Loggia, 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 Restaurant Maskeron, 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 Magellan, Restaurant & Caffe Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Dubrovnik. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Caffe & Night Bar Amor, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Celtic Bar Belfast Dubrovnik offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Seven Sins provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!
Day 3
- Dubrovnik
- Split
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Drive 242 km, 3 hours 29 min
- Forest Park Marjan
- Diocletian's Palace
- Golden Gate
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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. In the evening, you’ll end up in Split, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Dubrovnik. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Marjan is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most captivating places to visit in Dubrovnik. Next, head to Diocletian's Palace, an impressive palace, known for its UNESCO world heritage-listed features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Golden Gate. This heritage-rich historical landmark is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Nevera Tavern, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Perivoj restoran i kavana offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Konoba Laganini. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Split.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out La Linea, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Fabrique Pub provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Croatia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4
- Split
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Drive 262 km, 4 hours 18 min
- Serbian Monastery Krka
- Roski waterfall
- Visovac Monastery
- Skradinski buk
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On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Split, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Split, featuring family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Krka Monastery, an up-and-coming monastery in the village. Then, head to Roski Waterfall and soak in the ambiance of this mesmerizing waterfall.
There are many interesting places to see in Split, and when you are ready for more, go to Visovac Monastery. This is one of the village’s most up-and-coming inviting spots of interest. After exploring the monastery, visit the underrated Skradinski Buk.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Split.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Split. 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 lovely dining experience at Babylon, a popular restaurant in Split. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Split at DeListes restaurant Split, 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 Bokeria Kitchen & Wine. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Split tonight.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Caffe Bar Mythos, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Caffe Bar Legis, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Caffe Bar Tik provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Head back to your accommodation in Split and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 5
- Split
- Zadar
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Drive 160 km, 2 hours 12 min
- Sea organ
- The Greeting to the Sun
- Roman Forum
- Archaeological Museum Zadar
- Church of St. Donatus
- People's Square
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Zadar, 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 Zadar. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views await you in Split on today’s itinerary. First up is the top-rated art installation, Sea Organ. Afterward, continue to Monument To The Sun, an art installation every traveler should visit.
As you explore Split’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Roman Forum. This curiosity-inducing archeological site is an essential stop. Following that, head to Archaeological Museum Zadar, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Church Of St. Donatus, an intriguing church in the city. Finally, end your day with a visit to Narodni Trg, a history-steeped public square that offers the perfect conclusion to your sightseeing of the day.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Zadar. Zadar 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 Zadar. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Pizzeria Šime, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Harvatski restorant "Galiya" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restoran Zadar - Jadera. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zadar tonight.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Yachting Bar & Club. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Caffe Bar Porthos, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The Factory Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!
Day 6
- Zadar
- Plitvička Jezera
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Drive 175 km, 2 hours 41 min
- Plitvice Lakes National Park
- Great Waterfall
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Korenica and Plitvica Selo. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Plitvička Jezera. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Zadar is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Plitvice Lakes National Park, a wondrous national park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Great Waterfall, enchanting visitors with its awe-inspiring appeal.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Plitvička Jezera, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you explore more of Plitvička Jezera, 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.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Croatia.
Day 7
- Plitvička Jezera
- Dubrovnik
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Drive 490 km, 6 hours 7 min
- Trogir Old Town
- St Sebastian
- Kamerlengo Castle
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On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Trogir. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Dubrovnik, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Trogir Old Town. This curiosity-inducing historical landmark is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Chapel Of St. Sebastian, one of the town’s best highlights.
Next, check out Kamerlengo Castle, one of the most often recommended places to see in Plitvička Jezera. This castle is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Hotel Lapad, 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 Taj Mahal hotel Lero, 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 Shizuku -Japanese cuisine-, 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 Beach Bar Dodo, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Mr Foster Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Fratellos Prosecco Bar Dubrovnik is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
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.
Day 8
- Dubrovnik - Departure day
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- Fort Lovrijenac
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Day 8 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 Lovrijenac, a romantic castle before you head out.
On your last day in Croatia, take time to indulge in shopping at Dubrovnik’s popular marketplace, Dubrovnik Shopping Minčeta. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Wrap up your shopping with a drink and some pastries at a cozy cafe.
Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Dubrovnik.
Dine in style at Dubravka 1836 Restaurant & Cafe, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Proto Fish Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
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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