One-Week Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dubrovnik traveling north to Makarska, Zadar, Senj, Lika-Senj County, and Split

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Croatia includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Zadar. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zadar, where you'll spend 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Zadar. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 8 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Sea Organ, an astonishing art installation known for its culturally significant features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Roman Forum, an often recommended archeological site.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Market Zadar and uncover the details of this picture-perfect market. Make sure to also explore Church Of St. Donatus, a curiosity-inducing church. For your last stop, consider Narodni Trg, a romantic public square that many travelers find worth the detour.

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

Zadar is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Zadar.

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Yachting Bar & Club, known for its inviting atmosphere. Caffe Bar Porthos is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Factory Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Senj, Korenica, and Smiljan. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Lika-Senj County, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Experience Park Nehaj, an up-and-coming castle in the town. Then, head to Nehaj Fortress and soak in the ambiance of this breathtaking castle.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Korenica, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Senj to Korenica may take around 1 hour 28 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Korenica, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Korenica is Plitvice Lakes National Park, an iconic national park that draws attention for its UNESCO world heritage-designated features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Smiljan may take around 1 hour 19 min. Upon your arrival in Smiljan, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the day by heading to Nikola Tesla Memorial Center, an often recommended museum that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lika-Senj County. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

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 Lika-Senj County, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Highlanders pub, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kavana Milinković offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lika-Senj County.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Caffe Bar Fortuna, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Caffe Bar Amadeus is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Caffe Bar Bevanda is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Split, Trsteno, and Dubrovnik. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Dubrovnik, where you'll spend 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the astonishing Diocletian's Palace and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Marjan, an eye-catching park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Trsteno. This car ride takes around 2 hours 46 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Trsteno Arboretum, an increasingly popular botanical garden that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Dubrovnik, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Trsteno to Dubrovnik may take around 24 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Dubrovnik, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Bellevue Beach, a locally appreciated beach known for its romantic 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.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Taverna Loggia, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Maskeron is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Magellan, Restaurant & Caffe Bar. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Dubrovnik tonight.

Keep the evening going at Caffe & Night Bar Amor, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Celtic Bar Belfast Dubrovnik, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Seven Sins, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Croatia.