Relaxed 9-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dubrovnik to Split

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Explore Croatia and discover its unique charm on this 9-day relaxed road trip through Dubrovnik, Bosanka, Trsteno, Split, Stobreč, Veliko Brdo, Makarska, and Podgora. Delight in a stress-free journey that focuses on exploration through the country's most captivating landscapes.

This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Croatia at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Dubrovnik, Bosanka, Trsteno, Split, Stobreč, Veliko Brdo, Makarska, and Podgora. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Dubrovnik and 4 nights in Split. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Croatia.

Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Croatia. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Dubrovnik, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 9-day journey across Croatia and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.

Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Croatia with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Croatia.

We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Croatia. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Diocletian's Palace. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Marjan.

Traveling leisurely through Croatia means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Biokovo Nature Park - Skywalk. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Dubrovnik Cable Car. Get close to the spectacular Lovrijenac and the wonderful St. Peter Forest Park. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.

Enjoy strolling through Croatia's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Croatia.

Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Croatia. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Croatia's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Croatia.

This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Croatia. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 8 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 9 days of your self-drive road trip in Croatia. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.

This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.

Spend an amazing 9-day vacation in Croatia and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Croatia today!

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Itinerary summary

See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize

Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Forest Park Velika and Mala Petka
The Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin MaryRector's Palace, DubrovnikSponza PalacePorat DubrovnikDubrovnik Cable Car
Fort RoyalPlaža Sveti JakovLokrumMOMAD Museum of Modern Art DubrovnikSrđ
Tvrđava MinčetaOnofrio's Large FountainFort BokarFort LovrijenacTrsteno Arboretum
FroggylandOld Town HallGolden GateDiocletian's CellarsDiocletian's Palace
Split viewpoint (belvedere)Forest Park MarjanMestrovic GalleryWest BankKašjuni Beach

Personalize your itinerary

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Dubrovnik - Arrival day
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  • Forest Park Velika and Mala Petka
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Your relaxed road trip through Croatia starts when you reach the incredible city of Dubrovnik, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Dubrovnik and begin your adventure in Croatia.

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 Velika And Mala Petka Forest Park, or just 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 Dubrovnik. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Dubrovnik, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Lucin Kantun Dubrovnik, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Portun offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, TuttoBene Pizzeria & Fast Food is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Dubrovnik.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Dubrovnik. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Promenada, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Sports Pub Mario is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Caffe-bar Van also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Croatia. Enjoy your first taste of Dubrovnik as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Dubrovnik
  • More

Drive 8 km, 26 min

  • The Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary
  • Rector's Palace, Dubrovnik
  • Sponza Palace
  • Porat Dubrovnik
  • Dubrovnik Cable Car
  • More

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia, you’ll go deep into Bosanka, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the village’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the village's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Bosanka, and meet locals along the way!

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Dubrovnik on today’s itinerary. First up is the curiosity-inducing church, The Cathedral Of The Assumption Of The Virgin Mary. Afterward, continue to Rector's Palace, Dubrovnik, a palace every traveler should visit.

As you explore Dubrovnik’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village. Next, make your way to Sponza Palace. This up-and-coming palace is an essential stop. Following that, head to Porat Dubrovnik, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Dubrovnik Cable Car, a worthwhile sightseeing destination in the village.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Croatia more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Bosanka offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Dubrovnik has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Taverna Loggia, a highly-rated dining destination in Dubrovnik. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant Maskeron, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Magellan, Restaurant & Caffe Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Dubrovnik this evening.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Dubrovnik.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Caffe & Night Bar Amor. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Celtic Bar Belfast Dubrovnik, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Seven Sins provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Dubrovnik
  • More

Drive 24 km, 50 min

  • Fort Royal
  • Plaža Sveti Jakov
  • Lokrum
  • MOMAD Museum of Modern Art Dubrovnik
  • Srđ
  • More

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Dubrovnik and visit amazing attractions in Bosanka and Dubrovnik destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Dubrovnik. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Get ready for an exciting day in Dubrovnik. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a castle, a beach, a nature reserve, a museum, a mountain range and much more! Begin your adventure at Fort Royal. This is a frequently visited castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Plaža Sveti Jakov, an often recommended beach in Dubrovnik.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Lokrum. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Momad Museum Of Modern Art Dubrovnik, another of the village’s locally appreciated attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Srđ, a peaceful place of interest in the village.

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

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Croatia. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Dubrovnik, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Hotel Lapad, a highly-rated dining destination in Dubrovnik. If you're eager to try something different, consider Taj Mahal hotel Lero, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Shizuku -Japanese cuisine-. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Dubrovnik this evening.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Dubrovnik. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Keep the evening going at Beach Bar Dodo, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Mr Foster Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Fratellos Prosecco Bar Dubrovnik, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Croatia!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Dubrovnik
  • Split
  • More

Drive 238 km, 3 hours 12 min

  • Tvrđava Minčeta
  • Onofrio's Large Fountain
  • Fort Bokar
  • Fort Lovrijenac
  • Trsteno Arboretum
  • More

Day 4 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Croatia gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Dubrovnik. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Split, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 4 nights.

Immerse yourself in Dubrovnik’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Tvrđava Minčeta. This UNESCO world heritage-designated castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the UNESCO world heritage-designated features of Onofrio Fountain, a must-visit monument in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Fort Bokar, an often recommended castle. For a change of scene, check out Lovrijenac, known for its enchanting features. We also recommend visiting Trsteno Arboretum. This botanical garden is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

In the city of Split, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Croatia.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Split, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Nevera Tavern, a highly-rated dining destination in Split. If you're eager to try something different, consider Perivoj restoran i kavana, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Konoba Laganini. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Split this evening.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Split and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

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.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Croatia!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Split
  • More

Drive 2 km, 13 min

  • Froggyland
  • Old Town Hall
  • Golden Gate
  • Diocletian's Cellars
  • Diocletian's Palace
  • More

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip through Croatia means 24 hours of making the best memories in Split. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Split. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Split!

Start by visiting Froggyland, a prime spot to begin your journey. This eye-catching museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Old Town Hall, another must-visit landmark and locally appreciated city hall renowned for its photogenic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Split by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Golden Gate. This photogenic historical landmark is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Split experience. We also recommend visiting Diocletian's Cellars, a worthwhile archeological site. Nearby, you'll also find Diocletian's Palace, ready to add charm to your journey.

Croatia makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Croatia also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Babylon, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, DeListes restaurant Split offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bokeria Kitchen & Wine is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Split.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Split. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

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

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Croatia!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Split
  • More

Drive 25 km, 1 hour 25 min

  • Split viewpoint (belvedere)
  • Forest Park Marjan
  • Mestrovic Gallery
  • West Bank
  • Kašjuni Beach
  • More

Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Split, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Croatia are extraordinary.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at the often recommended Split Viewpoint (belvedere), a visually striking observation deck in Split. Next, go to Marjan.

After visiting Split Viewpoint (belvedere) and Marjan, have a stroll along Split's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Mestrovic Gallery. This standout art gallery offers a unique experience. West Bank is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Kašjuni Beach, one of the most eye-catching places to visit in Split.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Croatia by joining a traveler-approved tour in Split. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Split that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Croatia more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Split to find the best options for you!

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Croatia. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Split, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Villa Spiza, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Kadena? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Konoba Kod Joze as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Split.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Split and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Ave Caffe Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Tennis Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Jadran Beach Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Split
  • More

Drive 96 km, 2 hours 41 min

  • Plaža Kava Slatine
  • Church of Our Lady of Prizidnice
  • Diocletian Aqueduct
  • Archaeological Museum in Split
  • Beach Camp Stobrec
  • More

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Croatia continues on day 7, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Croatia and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Split and beyond. With 1 night left in Split, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Immerse yourself in Split’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Kava Beach. This eye-catching beach is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of Church Of Our Lady Of Prizidnice, a must-visit church in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Diocletian Aqueduct, an often recommended archeological site. For a change of scene, check out Archaeological Museum In Split, known for its instagrammable features. We also recommend visiting Beach Stobrec. This campground is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Split and your accommodation.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Croatia, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Split.

Savor the flavors at Movi, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Downtown Grill Split steak & seafood beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider SidiBar, restaurant, sports & music terrace. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Split tonight.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Split and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bar Basket after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Ami Pub Beer&food for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Shotgun Shooters Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Split!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Split
  • Dubrovnik
  • More

Drive 300 km, 5 hours 34 min

  • Vepric - Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes
  • St Peter Forest Park
  • Osejava Forest Park
  • Biokovo Nature Park
  • More

Day 8 of your self-drive tour in Croatia is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the village of Veliko Brdo and end it in the city of Dubrovnik. You’ll stay in Dubrovnik for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Croatia.

Start by visiting Vepric - Shrine Of Our Lady Of Lourdes, a prime spot to begin your journey. This instagrammable church is sure to impress. Next on your list is St. Peter Forest Park, another must-visit landmark and up-and-coming park renowned for its romantic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Split by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Osejava Forest Park. This eye-catching park is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Split experience. We also recommend visiting Biokovo Nature Park - Skywalk, an increasingly popular observation deck.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Dubrovnik. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Croatia by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Dubrovnik has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Dubravka 1836 Restaurant & Cafe, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Proto Fish Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Heritage of Dubrovnik as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Dubrovnik.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Dubrovnik’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Croatia.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!

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Day 9

Day 9

  • Dubrovnik - Departure day
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  • Park Orsula
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Day 9 of your relaxed road trip in Croatia is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Dubrovnik.

On your last day in Croatia, take time to indulge in shopping at Dubrovnik’s popular marketplace, Dubrovnik Shopping Minčeta. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Wrap up your shopping with a drink and some pastries at a cozy cafe.

Unwind and look back at the past 9 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Dubrovnik or just grab something light to keep you going.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Vita Bella, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hotel Adria? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Dubrovnik and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 9-day relaxed road trip in Croatia is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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