9-Day Croatia Road Trip from Split traveling east to Metković, Dubrovnik, and Makarska

Say hello to Split! Your exciting road trip through Croatia is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Split for 4 nights before you continue your adventure!

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 Split Viewpoint (belvedere) or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Split. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Nevera Tavern, a top-rated dining destination in Split. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Perivoj restoran i kavana, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Konoba Laganini. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Split this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to La Linea. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Fabrique Pub, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Day 2 of your road trip across Croatia promises a magnificent time exploring Split. You have 3 nights left in Split. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Froggyland. This museum is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 1,121 reviews.

Continue your journey at Old Town Hall. This sightseeing destination is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 603 travelers from near and far.

Split is also the home of Golden Gate. This memorial gates and arches has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,927 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Diocletian's Palace. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 77,945 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Diocletian's Cellars. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 928 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this point of interest.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Split has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Split offers and add your favorites to your Croatia travel package below.

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.

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Caffe Bar Mythos offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Caffe Bar Legis is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Caffe Bar Tik is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Split has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Split by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Drop by the renowned Kašjuni Beach. This popular beach has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,872 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Meštrovićeve Crikvine - Kaštilac. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 285 visitors, this museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Mestrovic Gallery. This art gallery has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,194 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is West Bank. This point of interest and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,356 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Marjan. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,622 travelers, this mountain is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Split.

You can learn more about Split today by going on a tour. Split offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

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.

Make sure to book a table at Villa Spiza, a popular restaurant in Split. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Split at Restaurant Kadena, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Konoba Kod Joze. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Split tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Ave Caffe Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Tennis Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Jadran Beach Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

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.

Kick off the day at Archaeological Museum In Split, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 795 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Croatian Maritime Museum. Croatian Maritime Museum is a museum with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 500 reviews.

Beach Bar History is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 558 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Split Breakwater Lighthouse. This lighthouse is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 514 visitors.

Your discoveries in Split do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Split on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

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 lovely meal at Movi, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Downtown Grill Split steak & seafood is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at SidiBar, restaurant, sports & music terrace. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Split tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bar Basket stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Ami Pub Beer&food offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Shotgun Shooters Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Vid, Ploče, and Ston. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Metković, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Split, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Vid may take around 1 hour 43 min. Upon your arrival in Vid, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take the opportunity to see Archaeological Museum Narona. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 728 visitors.

Ploče’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Vid behind. This drive usually takes around 27 min. Ploče welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Drop by the renowned Neretva Delta. This popular sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 872 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 Metković. Metković 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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Metković's best restaurants.

Make sure to book a table at Pizzeria MARINO, a popular restaurant in Metković. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Metković at Pizzeria Milano, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Konoba Lanterna. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Metković tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Carpe Diem Cafe after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Kave Bar Mb By Zvonko for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Trsteno, Popovići, and Dubrovnik. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Dubrovnik, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Trsteno and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 14 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Trsteno beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready to see some sights, Trsteno Arboretum is a great place to start. This arboretum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,192 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Popovići, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Trsteno to Popovići may take around 49 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Popovići, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Pasjača. This beach is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Popovići, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,603 visitors.

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

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.

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 your lively evening at Promenada, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Love Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Sports Pub Mario ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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 Bosanka, and Dubrovnik. In the evening, you’ll end up in Makarska, where you will stay for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Onofrio Fountain. This fountain is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,138 reviews.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bosanka.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Dubrovnik Cable Car. This point of interest is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Bosanka, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 9,632 visitors.

Porat Dubrovnik is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,739 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Sponza Palace. Visitors have rated this palace an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,631 reviews.

The Cathedral Of The Assumption Of The Virgin Mary is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a church rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,640 reviews.

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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Riva | RIVA - MAKARSKA d. O. O. , an iconic dining spot in Makarska. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Bonaca, a popular restaurant in Makarska. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Konoba Novak, a hidden gem nestled in Makarska. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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

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.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Malacological Museum. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 434 reviews.

Osejava Forest Park is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 2,254 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Botanical Garden. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 248 reviews.

St. Peter Forest Park is another outstanding experience in Makarska. Around 4,959 travelers have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Veliko Brdo. This car ride takes around 10 min.

Make Vepric - Shrine Of Our Lady Of Lourdes your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this church 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 Split. Split 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 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 satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Split this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Leopolds Craft Beer Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Leopold's Delicatessen Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Moon Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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.

Make the most of your final day in Croatia by visiting Split’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Croatia.

Drop by the renowned Diocletian Aqueduct. This popular point of interest has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 490 visitors.

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!