One-Week Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dubrovnik to Makarska, Zadar, and Split

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Description

Explore the best of Croatia on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Dubrovnik, Bosanka, Makarska, Šibenik, Grad Biograd na Moru, Zadar, Nin, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Grad Skradin, Primošten, 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, 3 nights in Zadar, 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. Diocletian's Palace and Sea Organ 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, Šibenik, Grad Biograd na Moru, Zadar, Nin, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Grad Skradin, Primošten, 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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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Forest Park Velika and Mala Petka
Dubrovnik Cable CarPorat DubrovnikThe Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin MaryFort Lovrijenac
St. Jacob’s CathedralSt Nicholas’ FortressTown of BiogradPlaža DražicaPlaža Soline
Market ZadarPeople's SquareChurch of St. DonatusRoman ForumSea organ
Solana Nin Salt MuseumPag BridgePaklenica National ParkSea organ
Krka National ParkSkradinski bukBeach Mala RadučaSea organ
Diocletian's PalaceForest Park MarjanTrsteno ArboretumBellevue Beach
Onofrio's Large FountainFort Lovrijenac

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Dubrovnik - Arrival day
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  • Forest Park Velika and Mala Petka
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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 Velika And Mala Petka Forest Park or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Dubrovnik. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Lucin Kantun Dubrovnik, a top-rated dining spot in Dubrovnik. If you're in the mood for something new, try Portun, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at TuttoBene Pizzeria & Fast Food. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Dubrovnik.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Promenada, known for its inviting atmosphere. Sports Pub Mario is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Caffe-bar Van provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Croatia!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Dubrovnik
  • Bosanka
  • Makarska
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Drive 162 km, 2 hours 53 min

  • Dubrovnik Cable Car
  • Porat Dubrovnik
  • The Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary
  • Fort Lovrijenac
  • More

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Bosanka and Dubrovnik. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Makarska, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of a charming, a breathtaking, an eye-catching, a heritage-rich, and a culturally significant. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Lovrijenac. This underrated castle is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience.

When you arrive in Bosanka, it's time to take a break from the road.

Dubrovnik Cable Car is a beloved sightseeing destination we recommend making time to visit today. Next, stop by The Cathedral Of The Assumption Of The Virgin Mary, an inviting church.

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 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant Riva | RIVA - MAKARSKA d. O. O. , highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Bonaca? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Konoba Novak as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick 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.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Croatia.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Makarska
  • Šibenik
  • Grad Biograd na Moru
  • Zadar
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Drive 215 km, 3 hours 16 min

  • St. Jacob’s Cathedral
  • St Nicholas’ Fortress
  • Town of Biograd
  • Plaža Dražica
  • Plaža Soline
  • More

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 2 vibrant destinations - Šibenik and Grad Biograd na Moru. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zadar. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Makarska and set your GPS to Šibenik. 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 1 hour 30 min. Upon reaching Šibenik, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Šibenik Cathedral, an intriguing church known for its inviting features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to St. Nicholas’ Fortress, an intriguing castle that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Šibenik, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Grad Biograd na Moru may take around 48 min. Upon your arrival in Grad Biograd na Moru, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Town Of Biograd is a frequently visited city hall we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its enchanting features before continuing your self-guided tour to Plaža Dražica, an awe-inspiring beach that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Plaža Soline, a serene beach.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Zadar. Zadar offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Zadar's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Pizzeria Šime, a top-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Harvatski restorant "Galiya", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Yachting Bar & Club is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Caffe Bar Porthos, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is The Factory Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Zadar
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Drive 4 km, 30 min

  • Market Zadar
  • People's Square
  • Church of St. Donatus
  • Roman Forum
  • Sea organ
  • More

Day 4 of your road trip across Croatia promises a magnificent time exploring Zadar. You have 2 nights left in Zadar. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Set out on a day brimming with an instagrammable, a charming, a mesmerizing, a heritage-rich, a profound, a majestic, and a masterful. Start at the often recommended Market Zadar, a visually striking market in Zadar. Next, go to Narodni Trg.

After visiting Market Zadar and Narodni Trg, take time to explore Zadar's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Church Of St. Donatus. This respected church offers a unique experience. Roman Forum is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Sea Organ, one of the most enchanting places to visit in Zadar.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Croatia is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Zadar's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Pet Bunara Dine & Wine? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurant 2Ribara as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Zadar.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Pirate Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Bizarre offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Backstage Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Zadar
  • Nin
  • More

Drive 145 km, 2 hours 37 min

  • Solana Nin Salt Museum
  • Pag Bridge
  • Paklenica National Park
  • Sea organ
  • More

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Zadar, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Nin, 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 Zadar to Nin may take around 21 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Nin, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Solana Nin Salt Museum, a curiosity-inducing museum that draws visitors from near and far.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Parići, 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 Općina Ražanac to Parići may take around 40 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Parići, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Your self-guided tour starts at Paklenica National Park, an often recommended national park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Zadar and your accommodation.

As you explore more of Zadar, 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Roko, a top-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Harbor CookHouse & Club, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran Urnebes. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Garden Lounge offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Down Town is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Beach Bar Bamboo is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

  • Zadar
  • Skradin
  • Primošten
  • Split
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Drive 211 km, 3 hours 57 min

  • Krka National Park
  • Skradinski buk
  • Beach Mala Raduča
  • Sea organ
  • More

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Grad Skradin and Primošten, 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.

Your self-guided tour starts at Krka National Park, a top-rated national park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

When you’ve had your share of Grad Skradin, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Primošten. Your travel time is around 59 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Skradinski Buk, an up-and-coming waterfall known for its mesmerizing features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Grad Skradin and set your GPS to Primošten. 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 59 min. Upon reaching Primošten, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Beach Mala Raduča. Spend some time admiring the stunning features of the beach before you continue to your next stop.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Split's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to La Linea for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Fabrique Pub is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Split
  • Trsteno
  • Dubrovnik
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Drive 244 km, 3 hours 43 min

  • Diocletian's Palace
  • Forest Park Marjan
  • Trsteno Arboretum
  • Bellevue Beach
  • More

On day 7 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, Trsteno, and Dubrovnik. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dubrovnik, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start by visiting Diocletian's Palace, a prime spot to begin your journey. This history-steeped palace is sure to impress. Next on your list is Marjan, another must-visit landmark and interesting park renowned for its eye-catching features.

Set your GPS to Trsteno and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 46 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Trsteno beckons with new experiences!

Begin your journey at Trsteno Arboretum and explore the romantic features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Trsteno, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Dubrovnik. This drive usually takes around 24 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Spend your afternoon discovering Bellevue Beach, a beloved beach known for its eye-catching features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Dubrovnik, 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 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.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Caffe & Night Bar Amor. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Celtic Bar Belfast Dubrovnik, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Seven Sins provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Dubrovnik - Departure day
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  • Onofrio's Large Fountain
  • 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.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

Start your day with a visit to Onofrio Fountain. This frequently visited monument is a must-visit in the city.

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 for something new, try Taj Mahal hotel Lero, another premier location with a delectable 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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