9-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar to Plitvička Jezera, Split, and Dubrovnik

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Korenica, Plitvica Selo, and Nova Kršlja. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Plitvička Jezera, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Enjoy all that Plitvice Lakes National Park has to offer. This is a globally renowned national park you should not miss. Another must-see is Great Waterfall, a beloved waterfall in Zadar.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Caves Of Barać.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Plitvička Jezera. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the village.

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

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

On day 3 of your road trip in Croatia, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Split are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Split, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Start your day at Golden Gate. This UNESCO world heritage-listed historical landmark is an underrated place to see in Plitvička Jezera. Then, wander over to Split City Museum. If visually striking sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Diocletian's Palace. This enchanting palace is a favorite among visitors.

Plitvička Jezera offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Voćni Trg In Split is an up-and-coming spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the public square, don’t forget to check out the photogenic Old Town Hall. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this locally appreciated city hall.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Split. Split 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 Split's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Nevera Tavern, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Perivoj restoran i kavana is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Konoba Laganini. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Split tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, La Linea is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Fabrique Pub also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Split, where you have 2 nights left to stay.

Trogir is brimming with adventures.

Kamerlengo Castle brings Split's character to life. This romantic castle is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Trogir Promenade, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Chapel Of St. Sebastian, one of the town’s most frequently visited attractions, known for its heritage-rich features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Cipiko Palace. This UNESCO world heritage-listed palace is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Trogir Old Town, a worthwhile historical landmark, and take a stroll around the area. If you want to extend your self-guided sightseeing tour, go check out Marjan before you head back to your hotel.

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

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Babylon, a top-rated dining destination in Split. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider DeListes restaurant Split, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bokeria Kitchen & Wine. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Split this evening.

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

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

On day 5 of your road trip in Croatia, you’ll start and end your day in Split, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Split, there’s no need to rush. Experience Bogatić and Grad Skradin to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Check out the worthwhile monastery, Krka Monastery. Afterward, continue to Roski Waterfall, a waterfall every traveler should visit. As you explore Split’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village.

Next, make your way to Visovac Monastery. This frequently visited monastery is an essential stop. Following that, head to Skradinski Buk, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Split and your accommodation.

Split is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Split.

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

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

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 2 places, which are Bosanka and Dubrovnik. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Dubrovnik, where will spend 2 nights.

Visiting The Cathedral Of The Assumption Of The Virgin Mary is always a good idea. This locally appreciated church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the heritage-rich wonders of Franciscan Church And Monastery, a must-see monastery in the village.

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 Dubrovnik Cable Car. This underrated point of interest offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Walls Of Dubrovnik, where you can take in visually striking features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Dubrovnik, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Dubrovnik is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Dubrovnik.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Lucin Kantun Dubrovnik, a top-rated dining destination in Dubrovnik. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Portun, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at TuttoBene Pizzeria & Fast Food. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dubrovnik this evening.

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

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

Your itinerary for day 8 of your road trip in Croatia includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Mali Ston and Ston. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zadar, where you'll spend 1 night.

Make a stop at Koruna Fort. This beloved castle is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Stonske Zidine located in Dubrovnik for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Kaštio Fort. Its culturally significant features will captivate you. After the castle, continue your tour of the village with a visit to Solana Ston Ltd. Visitors usually appreciate the history-steeped features of this historical landmark.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Zadar. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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 Zadar, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

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

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