9-Day Croatia Road Trip from Dubrovnik to Makarska, Zadar, Šibenik, and Split

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 9-day road trip through Croatia. Explore the diverse landscapes and local cultures of Dubrovnik, Bosanka, Makarska, Veliko Brdo, Grad Benkovac, Pašman, Zadar, Općina Vir, Općina Jasenice, Grad Biograd na Moru, Grad Skradin, Šibenik, Primošten, Split, and Trsteno. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Croatia takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Dubrovnik, 1 night in Makarska, 3 nights in Zadar, 1 night in Šibenik, and 1 night in Split. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Croatia. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.

Upon arriving in Dubrovnik, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Croatia on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Croatia. Diocletian's Palace and Sea Organ are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Dubrovnik, Bosanka, Makarska, Veliko Brdo, Grad Benkovac, Pašman, Zadar, Općina Vir, Općina Jasenice, Grad Biograd na Moru, Grad Skradin, Šibenik, Primošten, Split, and Trsteno, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Croatia. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Croatia.

Throughout your road trip in Croatia, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Croatia.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Croatia fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Croatia today!

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Day 1

Day 1 – Dubrovnik - arrival day

  • Dubrovnik - Arrival day
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  • Merit Casino Libertas
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Welcome to Dubrovnik, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Croatia! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Dubrovnik's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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 Merit Casino Libertas or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Dubrovnik. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at TuttoBene Pizzeria & Fast Food, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Maskeron offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Magellan, Restaurant & Caffe Bar. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Dubrovnik.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Promenada, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Love Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Sports Pub Mario. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Croatia!

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Day 2

Day 2 – Dubrovnik, Bosanka, and Makarska

  • Makarska
  • Bosanka
  • Dubrovnik
  • More

Drive 162 km, 2 hours 53 min

  • Dubrovnik Cable Car
  • Porat Dubrovnik
  • The Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary
  • Fort Lovrijenac
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Bosanka, and Dubrovnik. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Makarska, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Lovrijenac. Previous visitors have rated this fortress an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,375 reviews.

Bosanka welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Dubrovnik Cable Car. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 9,632 reviews.

Continue your journey at Porat Dubrovnik. This sightseeing destination is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,739 travelers from near and far.

Bosanka is also the home of The Cathedral Of The Assumption Of The Virgin Mary. This church has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,640 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Makarska, 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 Makarska's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant Riva | RIVA - MAKARSKA d. O. O. , a top-rated dining spot in Makarska. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Bonaca, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Konoba Novak. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Makarska.

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

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Makarska, Veliko Brdo, Grad Benkovac, Pašman, and Zadar

  • Zadar
  • Makarska
  • Veliko Brdo
  • Grad Benkovac
  • Općina Pašman
  • More

Drive 221 km, 3 hours 25 min

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Makarska, Veliko Brdo, Grad Benkovac, and Pašman. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zadar. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Osejava Forest Park. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,254 visitors.

When you’re finished at Osejava Forest Park, head to St. Peter Forest Park. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,959 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Makarska, 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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Vepric - Shrine Of Our Lady Of Lourdes. This church is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 2,248 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Zadar. Zadar offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Pizzeria Šime, a top-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Хърватски ресторант "Галия", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Yachting Bar & Club, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Caffe Bar Porthos is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, The Factory Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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Day 4

Day 4 – Zadar, Općina Vir, Općina Jasenice, Rupine, and Parići

  • Zadar
  • Vir
  • Maslenica
  • More

Drive 182 km, 3 hours 4 min

  • Pag Bridge
  • Maslenica Bridge
  • Paklenica National Park
  • More

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Zadar, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Zadar, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Općina Vir. This drive usually takes around 36 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you're ready to see some sights, Plaža Jadro is a great place to start. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,596 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Zadar, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Općina Vir. This drive usually takes around 36 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Paški Most. This road bridge is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,513 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Općina Jasenice, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Rupine. This drive usually takes around 8 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Maslenica Bridge. This deck arch bridge is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 3,666 reviews.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, 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 Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, 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 Restaurant 2Ribara, a hidden gem nestled in Zadar. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Pirate Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Caffe Bar Bizarre is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Backstage Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Croatia.

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Day 5

Day 5 – Zadar

  • Zadar
  • More

Drive 4 km, 30 min

  • Sea organ
  • Roman Forum
  • Church of St. Donatus
  • People's Square
  • Market Zadar
  • More

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.

Make Sea Organ your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this tide organ an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 58,697 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Roman Forum. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,872 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this point of interest every year.

Church Of St. Donatus is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This church building has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,882 visitors.

When you’re finished at Church Of St. Donatus, the perfect next stop is Narodni Trg. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,796 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Market Zadar. This sightseeing destination is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,813 reviews.

You can learn more about Zadar today by going on a tour. Zadar offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites 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 wonderful meal at Roko, a top-rated dining spot in Zadar. If you're in the mood for something new, try Harbor CookHouse & Club, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restoran Urnebes. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zadar.

Keep the evening going at The Garden Lounge, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Down Town, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Beach Bar Bamboo, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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Day 6

Day 6 – Zadar, Grad Biograd na Moru, Grad Skradin, and Šibenik

  • Šibenik
  • Grad Biograd na Moru
  • Skradin
  • More

Drive 137 km, 3 hours 13 min

  • Town of Biograd
  • Plaža Dražica
  • Krka National Park
  • Skradinski buk
  • More

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Grad Biograd na Moru, and Grad Skradin, 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 Šibenik. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Zadar and set your GPS to Grad Biograd na Moru. 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 38 min. Upon reaching Grad Biograd na Moru, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Town Of Biograd. This extraordinary sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,672 visitors.

Next, make your way to Plaža Dražica. This top attraction is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,036 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Plaža Soline. This sightseeing destination is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,700 travelers.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Krka National Park. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 59,505 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Šibenik, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Pelegrini, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Fry Guy is another top choice with a popular menu.

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.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Croatia.

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Day 7

Day 7 – Šibenik, Primošten, and Split

  • Split
  • Primošten
  • Šibenik
  • More

Drive 161 km, 2 hours 46 min

  • St. Jacob’s Cathedral
  • St Nicholas’ Fortress
  • More

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Primošten, and Šibenik. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Split, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Šibenik Cathedral. This extraordinary cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,654 visitors.

Next, make your way to St. Nicholas’ Fortress. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,888 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Primošten, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Upon arrival in Primošten, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Plaža Velika Raduča is a great place to start. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 989 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Beach Mala Raduča. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,361 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Statue Of Our Lady Of Loreto. The place of worship has been rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 3,398 visitors.

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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Split by booking a table at Šug, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional regional menu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Perivoj restoran i kavana, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

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.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Croatia!

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Day 8

Day 8 – Split, Trsteno, and Dubrovnik

  • Dubrovnik
  • Split
  • Trsteno
  • More

Drive 247 km, 3 hours 49 min

  • Kašjuni Beach
  • Forest Park Marjan
  • Trsteno Arboretum
  • More

On day 8 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 Split, and Trsteno. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dubrovnik, where you will stay for 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see Diocletian's Palace. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 77,945 visitors.

Kašjuni Beach is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This beach has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,872 travelers.

Split is also the home of Marjan. Around 12,622 people have rated this mountain an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Set your GPS to Trsteno and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 46 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Trsteno beckons with new experiences!

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Trsteno Arboretum. This arboretum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,192 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Dubrovnik. Dubrovnik offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Yacht Club Orsan, a top-rated dining destination in Dubrovnik. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel Lapad, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Taj Mahal hotel Lero. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dubrovnik this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Caffe-bar Van after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Caffe & Night Bar Amor, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Celtic Bar Belfast Dubrovnik also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

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Day 9

Day 9 – Dubrovnik - departure day

  • Dubrovnik - Departure day
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  • Onofrio's Large Fountain
  • More

Day 9 of your road trip in Croatia is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Dubrovnik before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Maximize your last day in Croatia and go on a shopping spree in Dubrovnik’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Croatia.

Kick off the day at Onofrio Fountain, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This fountain is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,138 reviews.

Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Dubrovnik.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Shizuku -Japanese cuisine-, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Dubravka 1836 Restaurant & Cafe offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Dubrovnik. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Croatia!

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