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

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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, Zadar, Nin, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Senj, Korenica, Smiljan, Lika-Senj County, Bogatić, Grad Skradin, 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, 1 night in Zadar, 1 night in Senj, 1 night in Lika-Senj County, 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. 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 Krka National Park, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Marjan.

As you hit the open road and drive through Dubrovnik, Bosanka, Makarska, Zadar, Nin, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Senj, Korenica, Smiljan, Lika-Senj County, Bogatić, Grad Skradin, 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
Lapad
Dubrovnik Cable CarPorat DubrovnikFort Lovrijenac
Sea organRoman ForumMarket ZadarChurch of St. DonatusPeople's Square
Solana Nin Salt MuseumPag BridgeMaslenica BridgePariževačka glavica
Park NehajNehaj FortressPlitvice Lakes National ParkNikola Tesla Memorial Center
Roski waterfallKrka National ParkSkradinski buk
Diocletian's PalaceForest Park MarjanTrsteno ArboretumBellevue Beach
Forest Park Velika and Mala Petka

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Dubrovnik - Arrival day
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  • Lapad
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Say hello to Dubrovnik! Your exciting road trip through Croatia is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Dubrovnik for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

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 Lapad, a must-see neighborhood, and 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Dubrovnik, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Lucin Kantun Dubrovnik, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Portun? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at TuttoBene Pizzeria & Fast Food as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Dubrovnik.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Promenada, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Sports Pub Mario offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Dubrovnik. Caffe-bar Van is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Dubrovnik
  • Makarska
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Drive 161 km, 2 hours 52 min

  • Dubrovnik Cable Car
  • Porat Dubrovnik
  • Fort Lovrijenac
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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.

Immerse yourself in Dubrovnik’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Dubrovnik Cable Car.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Lovrijenac, an often recommended castle.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Makarska. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant Riva | RIVA - MAKARSKA d. O. O. , a popular restaurant in Makarska. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Makarska at Restaurant Bonaca, 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 Konoba Novak. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Makarska tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Caffe Bar Smile, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Makarano Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Sól Lounge Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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
  • Zadar
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Drive 208 km, 2 hours 41 min

  • Sea organ
  • Roman Forum
  • Market Zadar
  • Church of St. Donatus
  • People's Square
  • 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 1 vibrant destinations - Zadar. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zadar. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Makarska is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Sea Organ, a top-rated art installation that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Roman Forum, enchanting visitors with its breathtaking appeal. Continue your exploration at Market Zadar. This market is one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Makarska at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Church Of St. Donatus. After exploring the church, head to the locally appreciated Narodni Trg. This public square will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Zadar, 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 Zadar. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Dine in style at Pizzeria Šime, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Harvatski restorant "Galiya" boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restoran Zadar - Jadera. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zadar.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Yachting Bar & Club, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Caffe Bar Porthos provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Factory Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Zadar
  • Senj
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Drive 231 km, 3 hours 5 min

  • Solana Nin Salt Museum
  • Pag Bridge
  • Maslenica Bridge
  • Pariževačka glavica
  • More

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Nin, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, and Rupine, 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 Senj. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Zadar today. One of the most often recommended attractions included on the itinerary is Solana Nin Salt Museum. This historic museum will help you start your sightseeing on top.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the increasingly popular Maslenica Bridge. After exploring the deck arch bridge, head to Pariževačka Glavica. This increasingly popular cliff is a highlight in Zadar.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Senj. Senj 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 Senj. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Pizzeria King, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bistro i Caffe bar "Kod tri mornara" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant Uskok. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Senj tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Pirassa Caffe Gelateria, known for its inviting atmosphere. Cafe Bar Julijus is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Erna provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Senj
  • Lika-Senj
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Drive 149 km, 3 hours 13 min

  • Park Nehaj
  • Nehaj Fortress
  • Plitvice Lakes National Park
  • Nikola Tesla Memorial Center
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Senj, Korenica, and Smiljan. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lika-Senj County, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Senj. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await. Park Nehaj is the perfect place to start. This castle is one of the most beloved places to visit in Senj. Next, head to Nehaj Fortress, an often recommended castle, known for its historic 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park. This eye-catching national park offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Nikola Tesla Memorial Center adds its own distinct charm to your journey.

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

As you explore more of Lika-Senj County, 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at The Highlanders pub, an iconic dining spot in Lika-Senj County. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Kavana Milinković, a popular restaurant in Lika-Senj County. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav, a hidden gem nestled in Lika-Senj County. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Caffe Bar Fortuna, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Caffe Bar Amadeus offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Lika-Senj County. Caffe Bar Bevanda is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Say good night to Lika-Senj County and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Lika-Senj
  • Split
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Drive 279 km, 4 hours 6 min

  • Roski waterfall
  • Krka National Park
  • Skradinski buk
  • More

On day 6 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 Bogatić and Grad Skradin. In the evening, you’ll end up in Split, where you will stay for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Lika-Senj County, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Roski Waterfall, a frequently visited waterfall in the village. Then, head to Krka National Park and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching national park.

There are many interesting places to see in Lika-Senj County and when you are ready for more, go to Skradinski Buk. This is one of the village’s most increasingly popular spots.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Split, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Split by booking a table at Šug, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional regional menu. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Perivoj restoran i kavana, a popular restaurant in Split. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

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.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Split
  • 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 exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Split, Trsteno, and Dubrovnik. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Dubrovnik, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming city of Split. Your adventure starts at Diocletian's Palace, a widely recognized local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Marjan. This locally renowned park is known for its enchanting appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Split's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Trsteno Arboretum. This standout botanical garden offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Bellevue Beach is also worth visiting.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Dubrovnik. Dubrovnik offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

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.

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.

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

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Dubrovnik - Departure day
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  • Forest Park Velika and Mala Petka
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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, begin at Velika And Mala Petka Forest Park. This curiosity-inducing park is a popular place to see in the city.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Take a break with a cup of coffee or tea while savoring the local vibe in a coffee shop.

Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Dubrovnik.

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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