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

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, Veliko Brdo, and Split. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Split, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Makarska, including a park, a church, and a palace. Start your day with a visit to Osejava Forest Park. This underrated park is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to St. Peter Forest Park, which may be one of the most awe-inspiring places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Makarska on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Vepric - Shrine Of Our Lady Of Lourdes, a curiosity-inducing church in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Marjan and Diocletian's Palace.

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.

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Split by securing a table at Šug. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional regional menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Perivoj restoran i kavana, another premier location with a delectable menu.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out La Linea, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Fabrique Pub. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Head back to your accommodation in Split and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia!

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

Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Pariževačka Glavica, an eye-catching cliff that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Paklenica National Park, one of the village’s most frequently visited spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the up-and-coming Solana Nin Salt Museum.

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

As you explore more of Zadar, 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Pizzeria Šime, an iconic dining spot in Zadar. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Harvatski restorant "Galiya", a popular restaurant in Zadar. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restoran Zadar - Jadera, a hidden gem nestled in Zadar. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Zadar, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Monument To The Sun, an underrated art installation in the city. Then, head to Sea Organ and soak in the ambiance of this enchanting art installation.

There are many interesting places to see in Zadar, and when you are ready for more, go to Roman Forum. This is one of the city’s most worthwhile culturally significant spots of interest. After exploring the archeological site, visit the curiosity-inducing Church Of St. Donatus. Not far away, you'll also find Zadar Cathedral. This church is a picture-perfect highlight in Zadar.

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 explore more of Zadar, 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Pet Bunara Dine & Wine? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurant 2Ribara as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Zadar.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Pirate Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Caffe Bar Bizarre is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Backstage Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Zadar, 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 Lika-Senj County. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Zadar allows for both. Start by heading to Market Zadar. This curiosity-inducing market provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Narodni Trg, an enchanting public square, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Queen Jelena Madijevka Park, a frequently visited park. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the locally appreciated The Five Wells Square. Round off your day at Kolovare Beach, another gem in Zadar with eye-catching features to discover.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Highlanders pub, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kavana Milinković offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lika-Senj County.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Knin Fortress. This often recommended castle is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Roski Waterfall, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out Krka National Park, one of the most widely recognized places to see in Lika-Senj County. This national park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Skradinski Buk. Wander around and soak in the mesmerizing atmosphere this waterfall offers.

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.

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Šibenik by securing a reservation at Pelegrini. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, Fry Guy boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

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

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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Šibenik, Vid, and Trsteno. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Dubrovnik. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Šibenik today. One of the most increasingly popular attractions included on the itinerary is St. Nicholas’ Fortress. This history-steeped castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Šibenik Cathedral and learn what makes this UNESCO world heritage-listed church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the beloved Archaeological Museum Narona. After exploring the museum, head to Trsteno Arboretum. This worthwhile botanical garden is a highlight in Šibenik.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Dubrovnik. Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik. 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 Taverna Loggia, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Maskeron is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Magellan, Restaurant & Caffe Bar. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Dubrovnik tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Caffe & Night Bar Amor, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Celtic Bar Belfast Dubrovnik offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Seven Sins. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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