11-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dubrovnik to Makarska, Grad Benkovac, Zadar, Lika-Senj County, Šibenik, and Split

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Makarska, Veliko Brdo, and Grad Biograd na Moru. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Grad Benkovac, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Makarska allows for both. Start by heading to St. Peter Forest Park. This beloved park provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Makarska, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Veliko Brdo. This drive usually takes around 10 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Vepric - Shrine Of Our Lady Of Lourdes is an underrated church we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’ve had your share of Veliko Brdo, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Grad Biograd na Moru. Your travel time is around 1 hour 48 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Town Of Biograd, an intriguing city hall that everyone visiting Grad Biograd na Moru should see. Next, head to Plaža Dražica. This peaceful beach is one of the most underrated attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Plaža Soline, a mesmerizing beach, popular among locals as well as travelers.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Grad Benkovac. Grad Benkovac offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

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.

Greet day 5 of your road trip in Croatia with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Zadar for your remaining 2 nights 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 Parići and Zadar.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Kolovare Beach. This frequently visited beach is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Queen Jelena Madijevka Park, one of the hamlet’s most promising highlights.

Next, check out Sea Organ, one of the most spectacular places to see in Zadar. This art installation is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Monument To The Sun. Wander around and soak in the romantic atmosphere this art installation offers.

When you’ve had your share of Zadar, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Parići. Your travel time is around 49 min.

Paklenica National Park is an increasingly popular national park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its scenic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, an iconic dining spot in Zadar. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, a popular restaurant in Zadar. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurant 2Ribara, a hidden gem nestled in Zadar. 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, Pirate Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Caffe Bar Bizarre is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Backstage Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

Day 6 of your road trip across Croatia promises a magnificent time exploring Zadar. You have 1 night left in Zadar. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Today’s itinerary in Zadar covers several incredible sights, including a market, a public square, a church, an archeological site and much more! Start your adventure at Market Zadar. This locally appreciated market is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the stunning wonders of Narodni Trg, a must-see public square in the city.

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 Church Of St. Donatus. This often recommended church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Zadar Cathedral, where you can take in grand features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Roman Forum. This instagrammable archeological site offers a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Zadar. 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 Roko, a top-rated dining spot in Zadar. If you're in the mood for something new, try Harbor CookHouse & Club, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restoran Urnebes. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zadar.

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

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 Kaniža Gospićka, Jablanac, Smiljan, and Žabica. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lika-Senj County, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Kaniža Gospićka promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences!

When you’ve had your share of Zadar, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Kaniža Gospićka. Your travel time is around 1 hour 16 min.

Continue your self-guided tour at Public Institution "velebit Nature Park", an up-and-coming nature reserve that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Jablanac’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Kaniža Gospićka behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 1 min. Jablanac welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Zavratnica Cove, an often recommended canyon that everyone visiting Jablanac should see.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Smiljan, 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 Jablanac to Smiljan may take around 1 hour 5 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Smiljan, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Nikola Tesla Memorial Center, a beloved museum in Smiljan. Explore its heritage-rich features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Highlanders pub, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Kavana Milinković? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Lika-Senj County.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Caffe Bar Fortuna after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Caffe Bar Amadeus for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Caffe Bar Bevanda is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Šibenik and Split, 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.

Šibenik is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a castle and a church. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the increasingly popular St. Nicholas’ Fortress. Just a short distance away is Šibenik Cathedral, an enchanting church that draws visitors from far and near.

When you’ve had your share of Šibenik, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Split. Your travel time is around 1 hour 15 min.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Marjan, a well-known park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Golden Gate, where you can soak in the photogenic surroundings.

Next, explore Diocletian's Palace, yet another spectacular place to see in 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 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.

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 Perivoj restoran i kavana, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, La Linea provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Fabrique Pub offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Ston, Mali Ston, Trsteno, 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 1 night.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Kaštio Fort, an underrated castle in Ston. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Stonske Zidine. This intriguing historical landmark is a top recommendation in the area.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Mali Ston, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Trsteno may take around 32 min. Upon your arrival in Trsteno, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Koruna Fort, an up-and-coming castle known for its respected features.

Trsteno’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Mali Ston behind. This drive usually takes around 32 min. Trsteno welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Continue your self-guided tour at Trsteno Arboretum, an up-and-coming botanical garden that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Taverna Loggia, 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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Caffe & Night Bar Amor is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Celtic Bar Belfast Dubrovnik, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Seven Sins. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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