9-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dubrovnik traveling west to Makarska, Split, Zadar, Lika-Senj County, and Šibenik

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Makarska, Veliko Brdo, and Split. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Split, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Makarska is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a church, and a palace. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the locally appreciated Osejava Forest Park and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, St. Peter Forest Park, a mesmerizing park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Vepric - Shrine Of Our Lady Of Lourdes, one of the town’s most increasingly popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the well-known Marjan. When you're finished at the park, Diocletian's Palace awaits your visit. This palace is a history-steeped highlight on today's itinerary.

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

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

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of La Linea, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Fabrique Pub likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Općina Jasenice, Rupine, Parići, and Nin, 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 Zadar. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Maslenica Bridge. Continue your discovery at Pariževačka Glavica, a romantic cliff with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Split, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Paklenica National Park. This beloved national park offers a majestic encounter with Split. Next, make your way to Solana Nin Salt Museum 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 Split.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Pizzeria Šime, a top-rated dining spot in Zadar. If you're in the mood for something new, try Harvatski restorant "Galiya", another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zadar.

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.

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

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Zadar for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Start by visiting Monument To The Sun, a prime spot to begin your journey. This enchanting art installation is sure to impress. Next on your list is Sea Organ, another must-visit landmark and famous art installation renowned for its romantic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Zadar by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Roman Forum. This historic archeological site is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Zadar experience. We also recommend visiting Church Of St. Donatus, an increasingly popular church. Nearby, you'll also find Zadar Cathedral, ready to add charm to your journey.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a popular restaurant in Zadar. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zadar at Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, 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 Restaurant 2Ribara. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zadar tonight.

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

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

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

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Zadar, including a market, a public square, a park, a beach and much more! Start your day at Market Zadar. This instagrammable market is a worthwhile place to see in Zadar. Then, wander over to Narodni Trg. If history-steeped sites excite you, this public square will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Queen Jelena Madijevka Park. This mesmerizing park is a favorite among visitors.

Zadar offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, The Five Wells Square is a worthwhile spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the public square, don’t forget to check out the romantic Kolovare Beach. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this beloved beach.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Highlanders pub, a highly-rated dining destination in Lika-Senj County. If you're eager to try something different, consider Kavana Milinković, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lika-Senj County this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Caffe Bar Fortuna offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Caffe Bar Amadeus is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Caffe Bar Bevanda is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Head back to your accommodation in Lika-Senj County and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip 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 Knin, Bogatić, and Grad Skradin. In the evening, you’ll end up in Šibenik, where you will stay for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Lika-Senj County. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! Knin Fortress is the perfect place to start. This castle is one of the most underrated places to visit in Lika-Senj County. Next, head to Roski Waterfall, a frequently visited waterfall, known for its serene 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 Krka National Park. This mesmerizing national park is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Skradinski Buk. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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 explore more of Šibenik, 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 Šibenik by reserving a table at Pelegrini. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Fry Guy, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Caffe Palma, known for its inviting atmosphere. Mystic is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Azimut provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

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.

Today’s itinerary in Šibenik covers several incredible sights, including a castle, a church, a museum, a botanical garden and much more! Start your adventure at St. Nicholas’ Fortress. This underrated castle is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the culturally significant wonders of Šibenik Cathedral, a must-see church 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 Archaeological Museum Narona. This up-and-coming museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Trsteno Arboretum, where you can take in eye-catching features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Dubrovnik. 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 Taverna Loggia, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Maskeron boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Magellan, Restaurant & Caffe Bar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dubrovnik.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Caffe & Night Bar Amor, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Celtic Bar Belfast Dubrovnik offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Dubrovnik. Seven Sins is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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