9-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dubrovnik to Makarska, Split, Zadar, Grad Benkovac, and Šibenik
Description
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Description
Explore the best of Croatia on a 9-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Dubrovnik, Bosanka, Makarska, Veliko Brdo, Split, Zadar, Općina Vir, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Nin, Grad Biograd na Moru, Grad Benkovac, Bogatić, Grad Skradin, Primošten, Šibenik, Vid, and Trsteno. This road trip itinerary in Croatia seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Croatia takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Dubrovnik, 1 night in Makarska, 1 night in Split, 2 nights in Zadar, 1 night in Grad Benkovac, and 1 night in Šibenik. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Croatia. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Dubrovnik, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Croatia on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Croatia. Diocletian's Palace and Sea Organ are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Krka National Park, learn more about the unique Marjan, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Skradinski Buk.
As you hit the open road and drive through Dubrovnik, Bosanka, Makarska, Veliko Brdo, Split, Zadar, Općina Vir, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, Nin, Grad Biograd na Moru, Grad Benkovac, Bogatić, Grad Skradin, Primošten, Šibenik, Vid, and Trsteno, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Croatia. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Croatia.
Throughout your road trip in Croatia, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Croatia.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Croatia fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Croatia today!
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Day 1
- Dubrovnik - Arrival day
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- Lapad
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Welcome to Dubrovnik, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Croatia! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Dubrovnik's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Dubrovnik 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 Lapad, a must-see neighborhood, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Dubrovnik. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
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 Dubrovnik, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Dine in style at Lucin Kantun Dubrovnik, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Portun boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out TuttoBene Pizzeria & Fast Food. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dubrovnik.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Promenada, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Sports Pub Mario. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Caffe-bar Van, another top-rated place in the area.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Croatia!
Day 2
- Dubrovnik
- Makarska
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Drive 161 km, 2 hours 52 min
- Dubrovnik Cable Car
- Porat Dubrovnik
- Fort Lovrijenac
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 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 Makarska, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views await you in Dubrovnik on today’s itinerary. First up is the intriguing point of interest, Dubrovnik Cable Car. Afterward, continue to Porat Dubrovnik, a point of interest every traveler should visit.
As you explore Dubrovnik’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village. Next, make your way to Lovrijenac. This curiosity-inducing castle is an essential stop.
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.
As you explore more of Makarska, 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 Restaurant Riva | RIVA - MAKARSKA d. O. O. , a top-rated dining spot in Makarska. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Bonaca, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Konoba Novak. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Makarska.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Caffe Bar Smile offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Makarano Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Sól Lounge Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!
Day 3
- Makarska
- Split
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Drive 95 km, 1 hour 56 min
- St Peter Forest Park
- Vepric - Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes
- Forest Park Marjan
- Golden Gate
- Diocletian's Palace
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Makarska, Veliko Brdo, 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.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Makarska, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at St. Peter Forest Park, a worthwhile park in the town. Then, head to Vepric - Shrine Of Our Lady Of Lourdes and soak in the ambiance of this breathtaking church.
There are many interesting places to see in Makarska, and when you are ready for more, go to Marjan. This is one of the town’s most locally renowned mesmerizing spots of interest. After exploring the park, visit the increasingly popular Golden Gate. Not far away, you'll also find Diocletian's Palace. This palace is an enchanting highlight in Makarska.
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 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.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Šug, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional regional menu. 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.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to La Linea for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Fabrique Pub is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!
Day 4
- Split
- Zadar
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Drive 161 km, 2 hours 20 min
- Sea organ
- Roman Forum
- Market Zadar
- Church of St. Donatus
- People's Square
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Zadar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zadar, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Immerse yourself in Split’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Sea Organ. This romantic art installation is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the instagrammable features of Roman Forum, a must-visit archeological site in the city.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Market Zadar, a worthwhile market. For a change of scene, check out Church Of St. Donatus, known for its culturally significant features. We also recommend visiting Narodni Trg. This public square is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Zadar. Zadar 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 Zadar's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Pizzeria Šime, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Harvatski restorant "Galiya" is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Zadar tonight.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Yachting Bar & Club, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Caffe Bar Porthos is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The Factory Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Croatia.
Day 5
- Zadar
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Drive 182 km, 3 hours 4 min
- Plaža Jadro
- Pag Bridge
- Maslenica Bridge
- Pariževačka glavica
- Paklenica National Park
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Zadar, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Immerse yourself in Zadar’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Plaža Jadro. This stunning beach is sure to ignite your curiosity.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Maslenica Bridge, an increasingly popular deck arch bridge. For a change of scene, check out Pariževačka Glavica, known for its serene features. We also recommend visiting Paklenica National Park. This national park is a must for anyone looking to experience the village to the fullest.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Zadar and your accommodation.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Zadar's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Pet Bunara Dine & Wine offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant 2Ribara. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zadar.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Pirate Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Caffe Bar Bizarre is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Backstage Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Say good night to Zadar and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 6
- Zadar
- Grad Benkovac
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Drive 129 km, 2 hours 35 min
- Solana Nin Salt Museum
- Vidikovac, Kamenjak
- Town of Biograd
- Plaža Dražica
- Plaža Soline
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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 3 vibrant destinations - Nin, Grad Benkovac, and Grad Biograd na Moru. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Grad Benkovac. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today's adventure in Zadar promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Solana Nin Salt Museum. This instagrammable museum is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Vidikovac, Kamenjak, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Town Of Biograd, one of the town’s most worthwhile attractions, known for its romantic features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Plaža Dražica. This romantic beach is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Plaža Soline, an up-and-coming beach, and take a stroll around the area.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Grad Benkovac, 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 Grad Benkovac's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Say good night to Grad Benkovac and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 7
- Grad Benkovac
- Šibenik
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Drive 157 km, 3 hours 39 min
- Roski waterfall
- Krka National Park
- Skradinski buk
- Beach Mala Raduča
- Statue of Our Lady Of Loreto
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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 Bogatić, Grad Skradin, and Primošten. In the evening, you’ll end up in Šibenik, where you will stay for 1 night.
Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Roski Waterfall. This worthwhile waterfall is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Krka National Park, one of the village’s best highlights.
Next, check out Skradinski Buk, one of the most often recommended places to see in Grad Benkovac. This waterfall is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Beach Mala Raduča. Wander around and soak in the eye-catching atmosphere this beach offers. Then, head to Statue Of Our Lady Of Loreto, a top-rated monument that adds another dimension to your day.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Šibenik. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Šibenik. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Have a memorable dining experience in Šibenik by booking a table at Pelegrini, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Fry Guy, a popular restaurant in Šibenik. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Caffe Palma after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Mystic, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Azimut also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Croatia!
Day 8
- Šibenik
- Dubrovnik
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Drive 300 km, 3 hours 54 min
- St Nicholas’ Fortress
- St. Jacob’s Cathedral
- Arheološki muzej Narona
- Trsteno Arboretum
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Šibenik, Vid, and Trsteno. 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.
Šibenik is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a castle, a church, a museum, a botanical garden and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the frequently visited St. Nicholas’ Fortress and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Šibenik Cathedral, a visually striking church that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Archaeological Museum Narona, one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the worthwhile Trsteno Arboretum.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Dubrovnik. Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Taverna Loggia, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Maskeron beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Magellan, Restaurant & Caffe Bar. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Dubrovnik tonight.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Caffe & Night Bar Amor, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Celtic Bar Belfast Dubrovnik. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Seven Sins, another top-rated place in the area.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Croatia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 9
- Dubrovnik - Departure day
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- Forest Park Velika and Mala Petka
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Day 9 of your road trip in Croatia is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Dubrovnik before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Velika And Mala Petka Forest Park, a serene park before you head out.
Maximize your last day in Croatia and go on a shopping spree in Dubrovnik’s shopping center, the lively Kalelarga. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Croatia.
Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Dubrovnik.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Taj Mahal hotel Lero, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Dubrovnik. 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!
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