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'll explore 3 destinations, including Makarska, Veliko Brdo, and Split. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Split, where you'll spend 1 night.

No visit to Makarska is complete without Osejava Forest Park. This worthwhile park is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to St. Peter Forest Park, another must-visit attraction.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Veliko Brdo may take around 10 min. Upon your arrival in Veliko Brdo, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in Veliko Brdo is Vepric - Shrine Of Our Lady Of Lourdes, an often recommended church that draws attention for its culturally significant features.

When you’ve had your share of Veliko Brdo, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Split. Your travel time is around 1 hour 7 min.

Savor the day by heading to Marjan, a popular park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Diocletian's Palace, where you can soak in the enchanting surroundings.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Split, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Split by booking a table at Šug. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of regional cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Perivoj restoran i kavana, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, La Linea offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Fabrique Pub. 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!

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 places, which are Općina Jasenice, Rupine, Parići, and Nin. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zadar, where will spend 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Rupine. This car ride takes around 8 min.

Pariževačka Glavica is an underrated cliff we recommend visiting today. Discover its awe-inspiring features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Parići. This car ride takes around 25 min.

Paklenica National Park is an underrated national park we recommend visiting today. Discover its peaceful features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

Zadar is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Zadar.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Pizzeria Šime, a popular restaurant in Zadar. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zadar at Harvatski restorant "Galiya", 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 Restoran Zadar - Jadera. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zadar tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Yachting Bar & Club stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Porthos offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The Factory Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Zadar and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip 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 the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Zadar.

Enjoy all that Monument To The Sun has to offer. This is a locally appreciated art installation you should not miss. Another must-see is Sea Organ, an impressive art installation in Zadar.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Roman Forum. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Church Of St. Donatus, another of the city’s underrated attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Zadar Cathedral, a breathtaking place of interest in the city.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Croatia. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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 Zadar, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Pet Bunara Dine & Wine offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant 2Ribara. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight 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 day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Croatia.

On day 6 of your road trip in Croatia, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Zadar are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lika-Senj County, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start your day at Market Zadar. This instagrammable market is an up-and-coming place to see in Zadar. Then, wander over to Narodni Trg. If visually striking sites excite you, this public square will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Queen Jelena Madijevka Park. This eye-catching park is a favorite among visitors.

Zadar offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, The Five Wells Square is an increasingly popular spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the public square, don’t forget to check out the mesmerizing Kolovare Beach. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this beloved beach.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Highlanders pub, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Kavana Milinković offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Lika-Senj County.

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

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Croatia!

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Šibenik, Vid, and Trsteno. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Dubrovnik, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

St. Nicholas’ Fortress makes a great addition to your morning plans. This underrated castle is an UNESCO world heritage-designated place to see in Šibenik. Continue your discovery at Šibenik Cathedral, a romantic church with stories to tell.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Šibenik.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Vid. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 1 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Archaeological Museum Narona. Spend some time admiring the respected features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Vid and set your GPS to Trsteno. 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 1 hour 19 min. Upon reaching Trsteno, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Trsteno Arboretum, an increasingly popular botanical garden in Trsteno. Explore its eye-catching 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 Dubrovnik. Check in and relax 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Taverna Loggia, an iconic dining spot in Dubrovnik. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Maskeron, a popular restaurant in Dubrovnik. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Magellan, Restaurant & Caffe Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Dubrovnik. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Caffe & Night Bar Amor is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Celtic Bar Belfast Dubrovnik, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Seven Sins. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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