One-Week Relaxed Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dubrovnik to Split
Description
Included
Description
Explore Croatia and discover its unique charm on this 8-day relaxed road trip through Dubrovnik, Bosanka, Trsteno, Split, Stobreč, Veliko Brdo, Makarska, and Podgora. Delight in a stress-free journey that focuses on exploration through the country's most captivating landscapes.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Croatia at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Dubrovnik, Bosanka, Trsteno, Split, Stobreč, Veliko Brdo, Makarska, and Podgora. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 3 nights in Dubrovnik and 4 nights in Split. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Croatia.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Croatia. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Dubrovnik, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 8-day journey across Croatia and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Croatia with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Croatia.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Croatia. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Diocletian's Palace. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Marjan.
Traveling leisurely through Croatia means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Biokovo Nature Park - Skywalk. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Dubrovnik Cable Car. Get close to the spectacular Lovrijenac and the wonderful St. Peter Forest Park. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through Croatia's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Croatia.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Croatia. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Croatia's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Croatia.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Croatia. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 7 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 8 days of your self-drive road trip in Croatia. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 8-day vacation in Croatia and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Croatia today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Dubrovnik - Arrival day
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- Forest Park Velika and Mala Petka
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Your relaxed road trip through Croatia starts when you reach the incredible city of Dubrovnik, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Dubrovnik and begin your adventure in Croatia.
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.
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.
Savor the flavors at Lucin Kantun Dubrovnik, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Portun beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider TuttoBene Pizzeria & Fast Food. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Dubrovnik tonight.
Experience the amazing nightlife in Dubrovnik and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Promenada, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Sports Pub Mario is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Caffe-bar Van also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Croatia. Enjoy your first taste of Dubrovnik as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2
- Dubrovnik
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Drive 8 km, 26 min
Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bosanka, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Croatia are extraordinary.
Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Croatia. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Croatia and ensure the experience of a lifetime.
Experience shopping bliss at Dubrovnik as you explore Kalelarga. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Kalelarga offers more options, including unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Croatia. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Dubrovnik, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Taverna Loggia, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Maskeron? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Magellan, Restaurant & Caffe Bar as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Dubrovnik.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Dubrovnik.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Caffe & Night Bar Amor, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Celtic Bar Belfast Dubrovnik offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Dubrovnik. Seven Sins is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
A leisurely self-drive holiday in Bosanka can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Croatia!
Day 3
- Dubrovnik
- Trsteno
- Split
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Drive 238 km, 3 hours 12 min
- Tvrđava Minčeta
- Onofrio's Large Fountain
- Fort Bokar
- Fort Lovrijenac
- Trsteno Arboretum
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On day 3 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Croatia. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Croatia.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Dubrovnik today. One of the most often recommended attractions included on the itinerary is Tvrđava Minčeta. This visually striking castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Onofrio Fountain and learn what makes this symbolic monument unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the increasingly popular Fort Bokar. After exploring the castle, head to Lovrijenac. This worthwhile castle is a highlight in Dubrovnik.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Trsteno. This drive usually takes around 24 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Trsteno Arboretum, a curiosity-inducing botanical garden that draws visitors from near and far.
Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Croatia at Split. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Split has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Savor the flavors at Nevera Tavern, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Perivoj restoran i kavana beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Konoba Laganini. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Split tonight.
As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Split. The bars in Split make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.
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.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!
Day 4
- Split
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Drive 3 km, 18 min
- Froggyland
- Golden Gate
- Diocletian's Cellars
- Diocletian's Palace
- Radić Brothers Square (Fruit Square)
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On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia, you’ll go deep into Split, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Split, and meet locals along the way!
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Whether you decide to explore Split on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Froggyland is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this photogenic museum before continuing your journey. Golden Gate is your next stop. This beloved historical landmark is one of the best-rated sights in Split.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Diocletian's Cellars. This history-steeped archeological site is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Diocletian's Palace and Voćni Trg In Split.
Croatia makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Croatia also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.
When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Split, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Don’t miss out on dining at Babylon, a top-rated dining destination in Split. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider DeListes restaurant Split, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bokeria Kitchen & Wine. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Split this evening.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Split’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Croatia.
Keep the evening going at Caffe Bar Mythos, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Caffe Bar Legis, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Caffe Bar Tik, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Soak in the unique atmosphere of Split as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Croatia with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Croatia!
Day 5
- Split
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Drive 25 km, 1 hour 25 min
- Split viewpoint (belvedere)
- Forest Park Marjan
- Mestrovic Gallery
- West Bank
- Kašjuni Beach
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Day 5 of your relaxed road trip through Croatia means 24 hours of making the best memories in Split. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Split. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Split!
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Split, including an observation deck, a park, an art gallery, a boardwalk, a beach and much more! Start your adventure at Split Viewpoint (belvedere). This increasingly popular observation deck is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Marjan located in Split for an enchanting atmosphere.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Mestrovic Gallery. Its standout features will captivate you. After the art gallery, continue your tour of the city with a visit to West Bank. This boardwalk has an enchanting appeal. For a change of pace, head to Kašjuni Beach. As one of the most frequently visited attractions in Split, this beach is an excellent place to end your self-guided tour.
Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Croatia more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Split offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.
After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at Villa Spiza, an iconic dining spot in Split. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Kadena, a popular restaurant in Split. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Konoba Kod Joze, a hidden gem nestled in Split. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Ave Caffe Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Tennis Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Jadran Beach Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!
Day 6
- Split
- Stobreč
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Drive 96 km, 2 hours 41 min
- Plaža Kava Slatine
- Church of Our Lady of Prizidnice
- Diocletian Aqueduct
- Archaeological Museum in Split
- Beach Camp Stobrec
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On day 6 of your relaxed road trip across Croatia, you’ll explore the area around Split, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Split will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Croatia.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Split, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Kava Beach, an underrated beach in the city. Then, head to Church Of Our Lady Of Prizidnice and soak in the ambiance of this enchanting church.
There are many interesting places to see in Split and when you are ready for more, go to Diocletian Aqueduct. This is one of the city’s most worthwhile spots. After exploring the archeological site, visit the locally appreciated Archaeological Museum In Split.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Stobreč. This car ride takes around 13 min.
Head to Beach Stobrec, a worthwhile campground in Stobreč. Explore its majestic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Split.
Exploring the food culture in Split offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.
Make sure to reserve a table at Movi, an iconic dining spot in Split. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Downtown Grill Split steak & seafood, a popular restaurant in Split. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of SidiBar, restaurant, sports & music terrace, a hidden gem nestled in Split. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Split and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Basket, known for its lively atmosphere. Ami Pub Beer&food is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Shotgun Shooters Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!
Day 7
- Split
- Veliko Brdo
- Makarska
- Podgora
- Dubrovnik
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Drive 300 km, 5 hours 34 min
- Vepric - Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes
- St Peter Forest Park
- Osejava Forest Park
- Biokovo Nature Park
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Day 7 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Croatia gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the village of Veliko Brdo. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Dubrovnik, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Veliko Brdo. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 5 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Head to Vepric - Shrine Of Our Lady Of Lourdes, an intriguing church in Veliko Brdo. Explore its culturally significant features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Makarska, 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 Veliko Brdo to Makarska may take around 7 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Makarska, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Spend your afternoon discovering St. Peter Forest Park, an up-and-coming park known for its idyllic features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Osejava Forest Park, a curiosity-inducing park that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Podgora. This drive usually takes around 1 hour, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Head to Biokovo Nature Park - Skywalk, an up-and-coming observation deck in Podgora. Explore its mesmerizing features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Dubrovnik. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.
When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Dubrovnik, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Dine in style at Hotel Lapad, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Taj Mahal hotel Lero boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Shizuku -Japanese cuisine-. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dubrovnik.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Dubrovnik’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Croatia.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Beach Bar Dodo stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Mr Foster Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Fratellos Prosecco Bar Dubrovnik is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Dubrovnik!
Day 8
- Dubrovnik - Departure day
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Day 8 of your relaxed road trip in Croatia is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Dubrovnik.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.
Unwind and look back at the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Dubrovnik or just grab something light to keep you going.
If you're in the mood for something new, try Proto Fish Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Dubrovnik and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in Croatia is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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