9-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Split traveling east to Metković, Dubrovnik, and Makarska
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Description
Explore the best of Croatia on a 9-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Split, Ploče, Ston, Metković, Trsteno, Sustjepan, Dubrovnik, Bosanka, Makarska, and Veliko Brdo. This road trip itinerary in Croatia seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Croatia takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 5 nights in Split, 1 night in Metković, 1 night in Dubrovnik, and 1 night in Makarska. 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 Split, 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 Marjan are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Dubrovnik Cable Car, learn more about the unique Lovrijenac, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of St. Peter Forest Park.
As you hit the open road and drive through Split, Ploče, Ston, Metković, Trsteno, Sustjepan, Dubrovnik, Bosanka, Makarska, and Veliko Brdo, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Split - Arrival day
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- Marmontova Street
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Your road trip adventure in Croatia begins as soon as you reach Split and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Split for 4 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Split 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 Marmontova Street, a must-see street, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Split. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Nevera Tavern, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Perivoj restoran i kavana offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Konoba Laganini is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Split.
Keep the evening going at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to La Linea, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Fabrique Pub, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Croatia!
Day 2
- Split
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Drive 1 km, 15 min
- Diocletian's Cellars
- Saint Domnius Bell Tower
- Diocletian's Palace
- Golden Gate
- Museum of Fine Art
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Split for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Start by visiting Diocletian's Cellars, a prime spot to begin your journey. This photogenic archeological site is sure to impress. Next on your list is Saint Domnius Bell Tower, another must-visit landmark and worthwhile monument renowned for its inviting 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 Diocletian's Palace. This grand palace is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Split experience. We also recommend visiting Golden Gate, an underrated historical landmark. Nearby, you'll also find Museum Of Fine Art, ready to add charm to your journey.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Split's best restaurants.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Split by reserving a table at Šug. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional regional menu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider DeListes restaurant Split, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Caffe Bar Mythos, known for its inviting atmosphere. Caffe Bar Legis is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Caffe Bar Tik provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 3
- Split
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Drive 21 km, 1 hour 32 min
- Split viewpoint (belvedere)
- West Bank
- Mestrovic Gallery
- Forest Park Marjan
- Kašjuni Beach
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Day 3 of your road trip across Croatia promises a magnificent time exploring Split. You have 2 nights left in Split. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in the charming city of Split. Your adventure starts at Split Viewpoint (belvedere), an intriguing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is West Bank. This intriguing boardwalk is known for its romantic appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Split's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Mestrovic Gallery. This standout art gallery offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Marjan is also worth visiting, along with Kašjuni Beach. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.
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 Split, 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 fantastic dining experience at Villa Spiza, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Kadena offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Konoba Kod Joze is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Split.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Ave Caffe Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Tennis Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Jadran Beach Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Croatia!
Day 4
- Split
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Drive 5 km, 53 min
- Archaeological Museum in Split
- Croatian Maritime Museum
- Beach Bar History
- Bacvice
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On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Split. You’ll stay in Split for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Bacvice, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Split. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
Start your day at Archaeological Museum In Split. This instagrammable museum is a worthwhile place to see in Split. Then, wander over to Croatian Maritime Museum. If heritage-rich sites excite you, this maritime museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Beach Bar History.
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.
Bring home unique finds from Split's bustling shopping hub, Marmontova Street. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique boutiques and stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Marmontova Street offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Split. 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 delicious meal at Movi, a highly-rated dining destination in Split. If you're eager to try something different, consider Downtown Grill Split steak & seafood, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at SidiBar, restaurant, sports & music terrace. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Split this evening.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Basket, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Ami Pub Beer&food provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Shotgun Shooters Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Croatia.
Day 5
- Split
- Metković
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Drive 238 km, 3 hours 16 min
- Neretva Delta
- SOLANA STON Ltd.
- Fort Kaštio
- Stonske zidine
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Ploče and Ston. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Metković. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Split. Begin your sightseeing with Neretva Delta. This underrated nature reserve is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Solana Ston Ltd. , another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Split, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Kaštio Fort. This underrated castle is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Stonske Zidine, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Metković. 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 Metković. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Don’t miss out on dining at Pizzeria MARINO, a top-rated dining destination in Metković. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pizzeria Milano, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Konoba Lanterna. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Metković this evening.
Keep the evening going at Carpe Diem Cafe, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Kave Bar Mb By Zvonko, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.
Head back to your accommodation in Metković and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 6
- Metković
- Dubrovnik
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Drive 106 km, 1 hour 50 min
- Trsteno Arboretum
- Franjo Tuđman Bridge
- Bellevue Beach
- Fort Lovrijenac
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On day 6 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 Trsteno, Sustjepan, and Dubrovnik. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dubrovnik, where you will stay for 1 night.
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the beloved Trsteno Arboretum, a serene botanical garden in Metković. Next, go to Franjo Tuđman Bridge.
After visiting Trsteno Arboretum and Franjo Tuđman Bridge, have a stroll along Metković's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Bellevue Beach. This romantic beach offers a unique experience. Lovrijenac is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.
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.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Lucin Kantun Dubrovnik, a top-rated dining spot in Dubrovnik. If you're in the mood for something new, try Portun, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at TuttoBene Pizzeria & Fast Food. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Dubrovnik.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Promenada stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Sports Pub Mario offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Caffe-bar Van is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Croatia!
Day 7
- Dubrovnik
- Makarska
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Drive 162 km, 2 hours 46 min
- Dubrovnik Cable Car
- Porat Dubrovnik
- The Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary
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On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Bosanka. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Makarska, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Start your day with a visit to Dubrovnik Cable Car. This locally appreciated point of interest is a must-visit in the village.
One of the best things about exploring Dubrovnik 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 The Cathedral Of The Assumption Of The Virgin Mary, a worthwhile church in the village.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Riva | RIVA - MAKARSKA d. O. O. , a highly-rated dining destination in Makarska. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant Bonaca, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Konoba Novak. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Makarska this evening.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Caffe Bar Smile, known for its inviting atmosphere. Makarano Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Sól Lounge Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!
Day 8
- Makarska
- Split
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Drive 89 km, 1 hour 42 min
- Malacological Museum
- Osejava Forest Park
- St Peter Forest Park
- Vepric - Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes
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Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Makarska and Veliko Brdo, 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.
Today's adventure in Makarska promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Malacological Museum. This instagrammable museum is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Osejava Forest Park, another eye-catching attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to St. Peter Forest Park, one of the town’s most locally appreciated attractions, known for its romantic features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Vepric - Shrine Of Our Lady Of Lourdes. This picture-perfect church is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Split. Check in and spend some time relaxing 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 Split. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at PORTOFINO Steak - Pasta - Seafood, a top-rated dining destination in Split. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Art Gallery Cafe Music Bar Split, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Duje. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Split this evening.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Leopolds Craft Beer Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Leopold's Delicatessen Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Moon Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Croatia!
Day 9
- Split - Departure day
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- TAXI Split Pickmeup Hr
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Day 9 of your road trip in Croatia is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Split before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
On your last day in Croatia, take time to indulge in shopping at Split’s popular marketplace, Marmontova Street. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces.
Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Split.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Konoba Marjan, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Split. 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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