One-Week Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Split traveling east to Dubrovnik and Makarska
Description
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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 Split, Ston, Trsteno, Sustjepan, Dubrovnik, Popovići, Bosanka, Makarska, and Veliko Brdo. 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 4 nights in Split, 2 nights in Dubrovnik, and 1 night in Makarska. 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 Split, 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 Marjan are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Split, Ston, Trsteno, Sustjepan, Dubrovnik, Popovići, Bosanka, Makarska, and Veliko Brdo, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Split - Arrival day
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- West Bank
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Welcome to Split, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Croatia! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 3 nights immersing yourself in Split's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Split 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 West Bank 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 Split. 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 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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Nevera Tavern, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Perivoj restoran i kavana? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Konoba Laganini as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Split.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to La Linea. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Fabrique Pub, another top-rated place in the area.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Croatia!
Day 2
- Split
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Drive 1 km, 18 min
- Froggyland
- Old Town Hall
- Golden Gate
- Diocletian's Palace
- Diocletian's Cellars
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Day 2 of your road trip across Croatia promises a magnificent time exploring Split. You have 2 nights left in Split. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Get ready for an exciting day in Split. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum, a city hall, a historical landmark, a palace, an archeological site and much more! Begin your adventure at Froggyland. This is an intriguing museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Old Town Hall, a locally appreciated city hall in Split.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Golden Gate. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Diocletian's Palace, another of the city’s astonishing attractions. We recommend ending your self-guided tour of the city with a respected archeological site. Diocletian's Cellars is a truly remarkable place to visit in Split.
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 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.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in Split by reserving a table at Šug. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of regional cuisine. Looking for something different? DeListes restaurant Split offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Split.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Caffe Bar Mythos. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Legis offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Caffe Bar Tik, another top-rated bar in the area.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Croatia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3
- Split
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Drive 19 km, 1 hour 18 min
- Forest Park Marjan
- Mestrovic Gallery
- Meštrovićeve Crikvine - Kaštilac
- Kašjuni Beach
- Diocletian's Palace
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Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Split has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Split by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Split is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, an art gallery, a museum, a beach and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the popular Marjan. Just a short distance away is Mestrovic Gallery, a noteworthy art gallery that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Meštrovićeve Crikvine - Kaštilac, one of the city’s most worthwhile spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the increasingly popular Kašjuni Beach.
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.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Split. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Dine in style at Villa Spiza, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Kadena boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Konoba Kod Joze. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Split.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Ave Caffe Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Tennis Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Jadran Beach Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 4
- Split
- Trsteno
- Dubrovnik
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Drive 238 km, 3 hours 21 min
- Fort Kaštio
- Stonske zidine
- Trsteno Arboretum
- Franjo Tuđman Bridge
- Diocletian's Palace
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Ston, Trsteno, Sustjepan, and Dubrovnik. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Dubrovnik, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Ston’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Split behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 8 min. Ston welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Spend your afternoon discovering Kaštio Fort, a worthwhile castle known for its instagrammable features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Stonske Zidine, a frequently visited historical landmark 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 Trsteno. This drive usually takes around 35 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Your self-guided tour starts at Trsteno Arboretum, an up-and-coming botanical garden that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Trsteno, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Sustjepan may take around 15 min. Upon your arrival in Sustjepan, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Franjo Tuđman Bridge, a worthwhile monument that draws visitors from near and far.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Dubrovnik's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Dine in style at Lucin Kantun Dubrovnik, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Portun boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out TuttoBene Pizzeria & Fast Food. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dubrovnik.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Promenada, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Sports Pub Mario. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Caffe-bar Van, another top-rated place in the area.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!
Day 5
- Dubrovnik
- Popovići
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Drive 62 km, 1 hour 33 min
- Pasjača
- Tvrđava Minčeta
- Onofrio's Large Fountain
- Fort Lovrijenac
- Forest Park Velika and Mala Petka
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Dubrovnik, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a charming, a breathtaking, an eye-catching, a historic, a grand, an UNESCO world heritage-listed, and a majestic. Whether you decide to explore Dubrovnik on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Tvrđava Minčeta is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this enchanting castle before continuing your journey. Onofrio Fountain is your next stop. This up-and-coming monument is one of the best-rated sights in Dubrovnik.
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 Lovrijenac. This majestic castle is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Velika And Mala Petka Forest Park.
When you’ve had your share of Popovići, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Dubrovnik. Your travel time is around 35 min.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Pasjača, a curiosity-inducing beach that draws visitors from near and far.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Dubrovnik.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Dubrovnik. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Make sure to book a table at Taverna Loggia, a popular restaurant in Dubrovnik. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Dubrovnik at Restaurant Maskeron, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Magellan, Restaurant & Caffe Bar. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Dubrovnik tonight.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Caffe & Night Bar Amor, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Celtic Bar Belfast Dubrovnik is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Seven Sins is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!
Day 6
- Dubrovnik
- Bosanka
- Makarska
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Drive 166 km, 2 hours 57 min
- Plaža Sveti Jakov
- Dubrovnik Cable Car
- Porat Dubrovnik
- Sponza Palace
- The Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary
- Fort Lovrijenac
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Bosanka. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Makarska, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bosanka and set your GPS to Makarska. 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 2 hours 32 min. Upon reaching Makarska, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Plaža Sveti Jakov is a curiosity-inducing beach we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its idyllic features before continuing your self-guided tour. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Sponza Palace, a picture-perfect and truly unique palace. End your sightseeing at The Cathedral Of The Assumption Of The Virgin Mary, an often recommended church that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the village.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Makarska's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Riva | RIVA - MAKARSKA d. O. O. , an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Bonaca offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Konoba Novak. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Makarska.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Caffe Bar Smile, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Makarano Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Sól Lounge Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Say good night to Makarska and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 7
- Makarska
- Veliko Brdo
- Split
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Drive 89 km, 1 hour 42 min
- Malacological Museum
- Osejava Forest Park
- St Peter Forest Park
- Vepric - Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes
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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Makarska and Veliko Brdo, 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.
Today’s agenda in Makarska includes a museum and a park. Malacological Museum is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Osejava Forest Park, an intriguing park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to St. Peter Forest Park, a mesmerizing park, also available for your discovery today.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Veliko Brdo, 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 Makarska to Veliko Brdo may take around 10 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Veliko Brdo, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Vepric - Shrine Of Our Lady Of Lourdes, a curiosity-inducing church that draws visitors from near and far.
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 Split. Split 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.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Split. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Movi, a top-rated dining destination in Split. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Downtown Grill Split steak & seafood, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at SidiBar, restaurant, sports & music terrace. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Split this evening.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar Basket, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Ami Pub Beer&food offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Shotgun Shooters Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 8
- Split - Departure day
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- TAXI Split Pickmeup Hr
- Diocletian's Palace
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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 Split before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Make the most of your final day in Croatia by visiting Split’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Croatia.
Begin your adventure at Taxi Split Pickmeup. Hr. This is an underrated sightseeing destination you should not miss.
Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Split.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at PORTOFINO Steak - Pasta - Seafood, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Art Gallery Cafe Music Bar Split? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Split. 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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