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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Makarska, Veliko Brdo, and Split. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Split, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Makarska. Begin your sightseeing with Osejava Forest Park. This increasingly popular park is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to St. Peter Forest Park, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Makarska, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Vepric - Shrine Of Our Lady Of Lourdes. This locally appreciated church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Marjan, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Diocletian's Palace is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Split by reserving a table at Šug. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of regional cuisine. Looking for something different? Perivoj restoran i kavana offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Split.

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

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Općina Jasenice, Rupine, Parići, and Nin, 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 Zadar. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Begin your adventure at Maslenica Bridge. This is a locally appreciated deck arch bridge you should not miss. Another must-see is Pariževačka Glavica, a beloved cliff in Split.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Paklenica National Park. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Solana Nin Salt Museum, another of the village’s locally appreciated attractions.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Today’s itinerary in Zadar covers several incredible sights, including an art installation, an archeological site, and a church. Start your adventure at Monument To The Sun. This increasingly popular art installation is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the masterful wonders of Sea Organ, a must-see art installation in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Roman Forum. This up-and-coming archeological site offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Church Of St. Donatus, where you can take in culturally significant features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Zadar Cathedral. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant 2Ribara. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

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.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Zadar. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lika-Senj County. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Zadar is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a market, a public square, a park, a beach and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the increasingly popular Market Zadar and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Narodni Trg, a history-steeped public square that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Queen Jelena Madijevka Park, one of the city’s most locally appreciated spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the beloved The Five Wells Square. When you're finished at the public square, Kolovare Beach awaits your visit. This beach is a mesmerizing highlight on today's itinerary.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Highlanders pub, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Kavana Milinković? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Lika-Senj County.

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

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.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Lika-Senj County, including a castle, a waterfall, and a national park. Start your day at Knin Fortress. This history-steeped castle is a beloved place to see in Lika-Senj County. Then, wander over to Roski Waterfall. If romantic sites excite you, this waterfall will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Krka National Park. This awe-inspiring national park is a favorite among visitors.

Lika-Senj County offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Skradinski Buk is an often recommended spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Šibenik by securing a table at Pelegrini. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Fry Guy, another premier location with a delectable menu.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Caffe Palma, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Mystic, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Azimut provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is St. Nicholas’ Fortress. This beloved castle is a romantic place to see in Šibenik. Continue your discovery at Šibenik Cathedral, a visually striking church with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Šibenik, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Archaeological Museum Narona. This often recommended museum offers a visually striking encounter with Šibenik. Next, make your way to Trsteno Arboretum to add another highlight to your day. 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.

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.

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

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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Caffe & Night Bar Amor, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Celtic Bar Belfast Dubrovnik provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Seven Sins offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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