9-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dubrovnik traveling west to Makarska, Split, Zadar, Lika-Senj County, and Šibenik

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Makarska, Veliko Brdo, 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 Split. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Makarska allows for both. Start by heading to Osejava Forest Park. This up-and-coming park provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover St. Peter Forest Park, a romantic park, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Vepric - Shrine Of Our Lady Of Lourdes, a beloved church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the locally renowned Marjan. Round off your day at Diocletian's Palace, another gem in Makarska with history-steeped features to discover.

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 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.

Start your culinary exploration in Split by securing a reservation at Šug. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of regional cuisine. 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.

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.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Općina Jasenice, Rupine, Parići, and Nin. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zadar. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start by visiting Maslenica Bridge, a prime spot to begin your journey. Next on your list is Pariževačka Glavica, another must-visit landmark and increasingly popular cliff renowned for its eye-catching 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 Paklenica National Park. This enchanting national park is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Split experience. We also recommend visiting Solana Nin Salt Museum, a locally appreciated museum.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Pizzeria Šime, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Harvatski restorant "Galiya" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restoran Zadar - Jadera. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zadar.

Keep the evening going at Yachting Bar & Club, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Caffe Bar Porthos, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Factory Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Zadar for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Zadar is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Monument To The Sun, an often recommended art installation that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Sea Organ, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Roman Forum. This archeological site is one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Zadar 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 beloved Zadar Cathedral.

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.

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

Say good night to Zadar and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Zadar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lika-Senj County, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Zadar today. One of the most increasingly popular attractions included on the itinerary is Market Zadar. This eye-catching market will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Narodni Trg and learn what makes this awe-inspiring public square unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the often recommended Queen Jelena Madijevka Park. After exploring the park, head to The Five Wells Square. This underrated public square is a highlight in Zadar. As your day continues, stop by Kolovare Beach, known for its peaceful features.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Lika-Senj County. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at The Highlanders pub, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Kavana Milinković beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Lika-Senj County tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Caffe Bar Fortuna offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Caffe Bar Amadeus is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Caffe Bar Bevanda is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 7 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 Knin, Bogatić, and Grad Skradin. In the evening, you’ll end up in Šibenik, where you will stay for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in Lika-Senj County. Begin your sightseeing with Knin Fortress. This up-and-coming castle is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Roski Waterfall, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Lika-Senj County, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Krka National Park. This widely recognized national park is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Skradinski Buk, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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

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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Šibenik by booking a table at Pelegrini, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Fry Guy, a popular restaurant in Šibenik. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

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

Relax and reminisce about your day in Croatia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Šibenik, Vid, and Trsteno. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dubrovnik, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Šibenik. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a castle, a church, a museum, a botanical garden and much more! Begin your adventure at St. Nicholas’ Fortress. This is an often recommended castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Šibenik Cathedral, an increasingly popular church in Šibenik.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Archaeological Museum Narona. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Trsteno Arboretum, another of the city’s often recommended attractions.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.