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

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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 2 nights in Dubrovnik, 1 night in Metković, 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. Marvel at the remarkable Krka National Park, learn more about the unique Marjan, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Skradinski Buk.

As you hit the open road and drive through Dubrovnik, Bosanka, Metković, Šibenik, Grad Biograd na Moru, Zadar, Općina Jasenice, Općina Ražanac, Nin, 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
Merit Casino Libertas
Dubrovnik Cable CarPorat DubrovnikSponza PalaceThe Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin MaryFort Lovrijenac
St. Jacob’s CathedralSt Nicholas’ FortressTown of BiogradPlaža Soline
Sea organRoman ForumChurch of St. DonatusPeople's SquareMarket Zadar
Paklenica National ParkMaslenica BridgePariževačka glavica
Krka National ParkSkradinski bukBeach Mala Raduča
Diocletian's PalaceForest Park MarjanTrsteno ArboretumBellevue Beach
Onofrio's Large Fountain

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Dubrovnik - Arrival day
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  • Merit Casino Libertas
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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 Merit Casino Libertas or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Dubrovnik. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Lucin Kantun Dubrovnik, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Portun is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at TuttoBene Pizzeria & Fast Food. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Dubrovnik tonight.

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

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Dubrovnik
  • Bosanka
  • Metković
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Drive 105 km, 1 hour 58 min

  • Dubrovnik Cable Car
  • Porat Dubrovnik
  • Sponza Palace
  • The Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary
  • Fort Lovrijenac
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Bosanka and Dubrovnik, 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 Metković. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Dubrovnik promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Lovrijenac. This visually striking castle is a highlight of any visit in the village.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bosanka.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Dubrovnik Cable Car, an up-and-coming sightseeing destination that draws visitors from near and far. Next, explore Sponza Palace, yet another often recommended place to see in the area. After the palace, make time to go to The Cathedral Of The Assumption Of The Virgin Mary. This grand church is well worthwhile the visit.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Pizzeria MARINO, a top-rated dining destination in Metković. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pizzeria Milano, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Konoba Lanterna. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Metković this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Carpe Diem Cafe, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Kave Bar Mb By Zvonko is another popular option for a drink or two.

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

  • Metković
  • Šibenik
  • Grad Biograd na Moru
  • Zadar
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Drive 271 km, 3 hours 47 min

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

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Šibenik today.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Šibenik’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Metković behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 59 min. Šibenik welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Take your self-guided tour to Šibenik Cathedral, a worthwhile church that everyone visiting Šibenik should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to St. Nicholas’ Fortress. This visually striking castle is one of the most often recommended attractions in the region.

When you’ve had your share of Šibenik, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Grad Biograd na Moru. Your travel time is around 48 min.

Begin your journey at Town Of Biograd and explore the visually striking features. Next, make your way to Plaža Soline, another highlight in the city.

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 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.

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.

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 4

Day 4

  • Zadar
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Drive 4 km, 30 min

  • Sea organ
  • Roman Forum
  • Church of St. Donatus
  • People's Square
  • Market Zadar
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Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Zadar for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the spectacular Sea Organ, a noteworthy art installation in Zadar. Next, go to Roman Forum.

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

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

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.

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

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Croatia!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Zadar
  • Maslenica
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Drive 158 km, 2 hours 39 min

  • Paklenica National Park
  • Maslenica Bridge
  • Pariževačka glavica
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On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Zadar, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Parići, Općina Jasenice, Rupine, Općina Ražanac, and Nin. You still have 1 night left in Zadar.

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 Zadar to Parići may take around 49 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Parići, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Paklenica National Park is an intriguing national park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its gorgeous features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Set your GPS to Rupine and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 8 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Rupine beckons with new experiences!

Your self-guided tour starts at Pariževačka Glavica, a frequently visited cliff 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.

Savor the flavors at Roko, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Harbor CookHouse & Club beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restoran Urnebes. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zadar tonight.

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

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road 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
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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 Grad Skradin and Primošten. In the evening, you’ll end up in Split, where you will stay for 1 night.

Begin your journey at Krka National Park and explore the romantic features.

Set your GPS to Primošten and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 59 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Primošten beckons with new experiences!

Make your way to Skradinski Buk, an intriguing waterfall that draws attention for its mesmerizing features.

After soaking in Grad Skradin’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Primošten. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 59 min. When you arrive in Primošten, it's time to take a break from the road.

Beach Mala Raduča is a locally appreciated beach we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Split. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Šug in Split by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Šug delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious regional cuisine. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Perivoj restoran i kavana? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, La Linea offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Split. Fabrique Pub is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Head back to your accommodation in Split and get some rest in preparation for another magical 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
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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.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at the extraordinary Diocletian's Palace, a visually striking palace in Split. Next, go to Marjan.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Trsteno, 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 Split to Trsteno may take around 2 hours 46 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Trsteno, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Trsteno Arboretum, a worthwhile botanical garden known for its standout 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.

Take your self-guided tour to Bellevue Beach, an up-and-coming beach that everyone visiting Dubrovnik should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

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 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.

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.

Continue your lively evening at Caffe & Night Bar Amor, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Celtic Bar Belfast Dubrovnik is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Seven Sins ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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
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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. Take a break with a cup of coffee or tea while savoring the local vibe in a coffee shop.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Start at the locally appreciated Onofrio Fountain, a photogenic monument in Dubrovnik.

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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