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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Zadar. You’ll stay in Zadar for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Zadar. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Monument To The Sun is the perfect place to start. This art installation is one of the most locally appreciated places to visit in Zadar. Next, head to Sea Organ, an impressive art installation, known for its visually striking features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Roman Forum. This picture-perfect archeological site offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Archaeological Museum Zadar adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to Church Of St. Donatus, a monumental church in Zadar.

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 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 Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top-rated dining spot in Zadar. If you're in the mood for something new, try Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant 2Ribara. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zadar.

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

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Šibenik. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Split, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Šibenik Cathedral. This often recommended church is a visually striking place to see in Zadar. Continue your discovery at Šibenik City Museum, a history-steeped museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Zadar, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to St. Nicholas’ Fortress. This often recommended castle offers a visually striking encounter with Zadar. Next, make your way to St. Nicholas Fortress 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 Zadar.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.

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.

Dine in style at Nevera Tavern, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Perivoj restoran i kavana boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Konoba Laganini. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Split.

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

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

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 will return to Split for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Split and Trogir to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Marjan. This locally renowned park is a mesmerizing place to see in Split. Continue your discovery at Golden Gate, a photogenic historical landmark with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Split, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Diocletian's Palace. This famous palace offers a romantic encounter with Split. Next, make your way to Trogir Old Town to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Kamerlengo Castle, a locally appreciated castle that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Split.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Babylon, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? DeListes restaurant Split offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bokeria Kitchen & Wine. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Split.

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

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

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 Bosanka and Dubrovnik. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dubrovnik, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Split today. One of the most often recommended attractions included on the itinerary is The Cathedral Of The Assumption Of The Virgin Mary. This visually striking church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Rector's Palace, Dubrovnik and learn what makes this enchanting palace unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the intriguing Onofrio Fountain. After exploring the monument, head to Walls Of Dubrovnik. This notable historical landmark is a highlight in Split.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Dubrovnik. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Lucin Kantun Dubrovnik, 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 Portun, 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 TuttoBene Pizzeria & Fast Food, a hidden gem nestled in Dubrovnik. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Promenada after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Sports Pub Mario for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Caffe-bar Van is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Dubrovnik for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Make sure to visit Lapad, a popular neighborhood in Bosanka. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Dubrovnik, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Plaža Sveti Jakov, a frequently visited beach in the village.

There are many interesting places to see in Dubrovnik and when you are ready for more, go to Lovrijenac. This is one of the village’s most worthwhile spots. After exploring the castle, visit the increasingly popular Bellevue Beach. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the worthwhile Franjo Tuđman Bridge, a worthwhile monument in the village.

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 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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Taverna Loggia, a popular restaurant in Dubrovnik. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Dubrovnik at Restaurant Maskeron, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Magellan, Restaurant & Caffe Bar. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Dubrovnik tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Caffe & Night Bar Amor, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Celtic Bar Belfast Dubrovnik offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Seven Sins provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable 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.