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

On day 2 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 Korenica, Plitvica Selo, and Nova Kršlja. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plitvička Jezera, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Zadar. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a national park, a waterfall, and a cave. Begin your adventure at Plitvice Lakes National Park. This is a world-famous national park you should not miss. Another must-see is Great Waterfall, an often recommended 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 spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the village.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Plitvička Jezera. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the village, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

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 1 vibrant destinations - Split. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Split. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Golden Gate. This intriguing historical landmark is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Split City Museum, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Diocletian's Palace, one of the most widely recognized places to see in Plitvička Jezera. This palace is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Voćni Trg In Split. Wander around and soak in the visually striking atmosphere this public square offers. Then, head to Old Town Hall, a top-rated city hall that adds another dimension to your day.

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.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Nevera Tavern, a popular restaurant in Split. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Split at Perivoj restoran i kavana, 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 Konoba Laganini. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Split tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, La Linea is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Fabrique Pub is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Split, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Trogir and Split. You still have 2 nights left in Split.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Kamerlengo Castle. This up-and-coming castle is a romantic place to see in Split. Continue your discovery at Trogir Promenade, a romantic boardwalk with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Split, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Chapel Of St. Sebastian. This often recommended church offers a culturally significant encounter with Split. Next, make your way to Cipiko Palace to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Trogir Old Town, a curiosity-inducing historical landmark that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Marjan, a notable park in the town. 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.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Babylon, a top-rated dining spot in Split. If you're in the mood for something new, try DeListes restaurant Split, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Bokeria Kitchen & Wine. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Split.

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

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

Greet day 5 of your road trip in Croatia with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Split for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Bogatić and Grad Skradin.

Split is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a monastery and a waterfall. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the often recommended Krka Monastery and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Roski Waterfall, a serene waterfall that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Visovac Monastery, one of the village’s most intriguing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the up-and-coming Skradinski Buk.

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

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 Villa Spiza, a highly-rated dining destination in Split. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant Kadena, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Konoba Kod Joze. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Split this evening.

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

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 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 Dubrovnik, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Split on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. The Cathedral Of The Assumption Of The Virgin Mary is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this inviting church before continuing your journey. Franciscan Church And Monastery is your next stop. This often recommended monastery is one of the best-rated sights in Split.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Dubrovnik Cable Car. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Walls Of Dubrovnik.

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.

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

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Mali Ston and Ston. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zadar, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Dubrovnik today. One of the most up-and-coming attractions included on the itinerary is Koruna Fort. This culturally significant castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Stonske Zidine and learn what makes this visually striking historical landmark unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the curiosity-inducing Kaštio Fort. After exploring the castle, head to Solana Ston Ltd. This frequently visited historical landmark is a highlight in Dubrovnik.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Pet Bunara Dine & Wine offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurant 2Ribara is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Zadar.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Pirate Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Bizarre offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Backstage Bar 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.