9-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dubrovnik to Makarska, Senj, Zadar, and Šibenik

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Bosanka and Dubrovnik. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Makarska. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Dubrovnik. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await. Lovrijenac is the perfect place to start. This castle is one of the most intriguing places to visit in Dubrovnik.

Upon reaching Bosanka, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Next, visit The Cathedral Of The Assumption Of The Virgin Mary, an intriguing church that offers a unique experience.

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 Makarska. Makarska 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.

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

Dine in style at Restaurant Riva | RIVA - MAKARSKA d. O. O. , a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Bonaca boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Konoba Novak. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Makarska.

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

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

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

Today's adventure in Makarska promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Osejava Forest Park. This mesmerizing park is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy St. Peter Forest Park, another mesmerizing attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.

Upon reaching Podgora, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take your self-guided tour to Biokovo Nature Park - Skywalk, an increasingly popular observation deck that everyone visiting Podgora should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Makarska and set your GPS to Perušić. 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 41 min. Upon reaching Perušić, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Head to Grabovača, an often recommended cave system in Perušić. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

As you explore more of Senj, 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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Pizzeria King, a popular restaurant in Senj. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Senj at Bistro i Caffe bar "Kod tri mornara", 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 Restaurant Uskok. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time 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.

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.

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Korenica and Zadar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zadar, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Korenica, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Zadar. Your travel time is around 2 hours 10 min.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a wondrous national park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its eye-catching features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’ve had your share of Korenica, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Zadar. Your travel time is around 2 hours 10 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Kolovare Beach. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the beach before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Sea Organ. This top-rated art installation is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find Monument To The Sun. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the art installation.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Zadar. 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Pizzeria Šime, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Harvatski restorant "Galiya" is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Zadar tonight.

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

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

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Zadar has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Zadar by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Today's adventure in Zadar promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Market Zadar. This picture-perfect market is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Narodni Trg, another standout attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Zadar Cathedral, one of the city’s most intriguing attractions, known for its stunning features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Church Of St. Donatus. This culturally significant church is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Roman Forum, an intriguing archeological site, and take a stroll around the area.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Zadar. 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 wonderful meal at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top-rated dining spot in Zadar. If you're in the mood for something new, try Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant 2Ribara. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zadar.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Pirate Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Caffe Bar Bizarre. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Backstage Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Šibenik, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Šibenik, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Primošten may take around 37 min. Upon your arrival in Primošten, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your journey at Statue Of Our Lady Of Loreto and explore the majestic features. Next, make your way to Plaža Velika Raduča, another highlight in the village. When you’re done exploring the beach, continue to Beach Mala Raduča, an instagrammable beach.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Grad Skradin. This drive usually takes around 58 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Skradinski Buk, a curiosity-inducing waterfall known for its mesmerizing features.

Make your way to Krka National Park, an impressive national park that draws attention for its peaceful features.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Šibenik.

As you explore more of Šibenik, 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Gastro Italiano, a highly-rated dining destination in Šibenik. If you're eager to try something different, consider buffet Šimun, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Pub&wine bar Scala. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Šibenik this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Caffe Bar Garage after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Vintage Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Moby Dick Caffe Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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.

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Šibenik and Split, 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 Dubrovnik. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Šibenik’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Šibenik Cathedral. This grand church is sure to ignite your curiosity.

Set your GPS to Split and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Split beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Diocletian's Palace, a famous palace known for its romantic features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Marjan, a notable park that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

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

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.

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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Caffe & Night Bar Amor. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Celtic Bar Belfast Dubrovnik offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Seven Sins, another top-rated bar in the area.

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