12-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Split to Dubrovnik, Šibenik, Zagreb, Pula, and Lika-Senj County and surrounding area

Day 2 of your road trip across Croatia promises a magnificent time exploring Split. You have 1 night left in Split. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Split is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Kašjuni Beach, a frequently visited beach that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Marjan, enchanting visitors with its mesmerizing appeal. Continue your exploration at Mestrovic Gallery. This art gallery is one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Split at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Golden Gate. After exploring the historical landmark, head to the spectacular Diocletian's Palace.

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.

Bring home unique finds from Split's bustling shopping hub, Pazar Market. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Pazar Market offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Babylon, 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 DeListes restaurant Split, 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 Bokeria Kitchen & Wine. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Split tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Caffe Bar Mythos, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Caffe Bar Legis. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Caffe Bar Tik, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Veliko Brdo, Makarska, and Podgora. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Dubrovnik, where you’ll be staying for 4 nights.

Get ready for an exciting day in Split. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a church, a park, and an observation deck. Begin your adventure at Vepric - Shrine Of Our Lady Of Lourdes. This is a locally appreciated church you should not miss. Another must-see is St. Peter Forest Park, a locally appreciated park in Split.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Osejava Forest Park. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Biokovo Nature Park - Skywalk, another of the village’s locally appreciated attractions.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Promenada. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Sports Pub Mario, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Caffe-bar Van provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Bosanka has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights you have left in Dubrovnik by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the village.

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

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the increasingly popular Sponza Palace. After exploring the palace, head to Porat Dubrovnik. This intriguing point of interest is a highlight in Dubrovnik.

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 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 lovely meal at Taverna Loggia, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Maskeron is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Magellan, Restaurant & Caffe Bar. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Dubrovnik tonight.

Keep the evening going at Caffe & Night Bar Amor, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Celtic Bar Belfast Dubrovnik, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Seven Sins, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Dubrovnik for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Dubrovnik, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Velika And Mala Petka Forest Park, an intriguing park in the city. Then, head to Momad Museum Of Modern Art Dubrovnik and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Dubrovnik, and when you are ready for more, go to Lovrijenac. This is one of the city’s most beloved history-steeped spots of interest. After exploring the castle, visit the frequently visited Park Orsula. Not far away, you'll also find Srđ. This mountain range is an eye-catching highlight in Dubrovnik.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Hotel Lapad, a top-rated dining destination in Dubrovnik. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Taj Mahal hotel Lero, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Shizuku -Japanese cuisine-. 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. Beach Bar Dodo is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Mr Foster Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Fratellos Prosecco Bar Dubrovnik. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 Dubrovnik, Trsteno, and Brsečine. In the evening, you’ll end up in Šibenik, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Dubrovnik covers several incredible sights, including a castle, a monument, a botanical garden, a beach and much more! Start your adventure at Tvrđava Minčeta. This frequently visited castle is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the symbolic wonders of Onofrio Fountain, a must-see monument 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 Trsteno Arboretum. This intriguing botanical garden offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Sjekirica Beach, where you can take in romantic features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Šibenik, 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 Šibenik. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Pelegrini, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Šibenik at Fry Guy, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Caffe Palma, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Mystic offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Šibenik. Azimut is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Croatia!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Zagreb. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zagreb, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming city of Šibenik. Your adventure starts at Krka National Park, an impressive local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Bundek. This well-known park is known for its romantic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Šibenik's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb. This eye-catching botanical garden offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Ban Josip Jelačić Statue is also worth visiting.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Zagreb. 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.

Dine in style at Zinfandel's Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Esplanade Zagreb Hotel boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Rougemarin City. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zagreb.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Tesla New Generation, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Caffe Bar Destino is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Booze And Blues also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Zagreb. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Pula. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and romantic experiences. Whether you decide to explore Zagreb on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Zagreb Zoo is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this picture-perfect zoo before continuing your journey. Park Maksimir is your next stop. This well-known park is one of the best-rated sights in Zagreb.

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 Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb. This standout performing arts theater is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Technical Museum.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Pula. 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 Pula's best restaurants.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Pizzeria Samantha, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Fresh Sandwiches and Salads offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bistro Romantic Alley is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Pula.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Beach Bar Laplaya, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Shipyard Pub provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Zeppelin - Beach & Lounge Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Pula, 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 Lika-Senj County. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Start by visiting Pula Citadel, a prime spot to begin your journey. This respected castle is sure to impress. Next on your list is Forum Square, another must-visit landmark and underrated public square renowned for its awe-inspiring features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Pula by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Temple Of Augustus. This heritage-rich monument is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Pula experience. We also recommend visiting Pula Arena, a spectacular archeological site. Nearby, you'll also find Šijana/siana Forest, ready to add charm to 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 delicious dinner at The Highlanders pub, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kavana Milinković offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice 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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

On day 11 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 Split, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Lika-Senj County, including a market, an art installation, an archeological site, a church, a public square and much more! Start your day with a visit to Market Zadar. This curiosity-inducing market is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Sea Organ, which may be one of the most romantic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Lika-Senj County on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Roman Forum, a locally appreciated archeological site in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Church Of St. Donatus and Narodni Trg.

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.

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

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.

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