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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Makarska, Veliko Brdo, and Grad Biograd na Moru. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Grad Benkovac, where you'll spend 1 night.

Make a stop at St. Peter Forest Park. This often recommended park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience.

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.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Vepric - Shrine Of Our Lady Of Lourdes, a worthwhile church that everyone visiting Veliko Brdo should see.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Grad Biograd na Moru. This car ride takes around 1 hour 48 min.

Town Of Biograd is a beloved city hall we recommend visiting today. Discover its enchanting features before continuing your self-guided tour to Plaža Dražica, an eye-catching beach that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Plaža Soline, a mesmerizing beach.

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.

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 Grad Benkovac, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Zadar, where you have 2 nights left to stay.

Visiting Kolovare Beach is always a good idea. This up-and-coming beach is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the majestic wonders of Queen Jelena Madijevka Park, a must-see park in the hamlet.

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 Sea Organ. This famous art installation offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Monument To The Sun, where you can take in visually striking features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Parići may take around 49 min. Upon your arrival in Parići, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Paklenica National Park is an underrated national park we recommend visiting today. Discover its peaceful 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 a true cultural experience.

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.

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.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Zadar has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Zadar.

Market Zadar brings Zadar's character to life. This visually striking market is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Narodni Trg, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Church Of St. Donatus, one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing attractions, known for its heritage-rich features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Zadar Cathedral. This breathtaking church is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Roman Forum, an underrated archeological site, and take a stroll around the area.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Croatia. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Zadar is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Zadar.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Roko, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Harbor CookHouse & Club offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restoran Urnebes is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Zadar.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at The Garden Lounge, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Down Town offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Beach Bar Bamboo. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Say good night to Zadar and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!

On day 7 of your road trip in Croatia, your travel plans include 4 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Kaniža Gospićka, Jablanac, Smiljan, and Žabica are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lika-Senj County, where you will stay for 1 night.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Kaniža Gospićka.

After soaking in Zadar’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Kaniža Gospićka. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 16 min. When you arrive in Kaniža Gospićka, it's time to take a break from the road.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Public Institution "velebit Nature Park", a locally appreciated 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.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Zavratnica Cove, an underrated canyon that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Jablanac, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Smiljan. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 5 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Nikola Tesla Memorial Center, an often recommended museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Lika-Senj County's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

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.

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

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter 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 2 places, which are Šibenik and Split. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Split, where will spend 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the increasingly popular St. Nicholas’ Fortress and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Šibenik Cathedral, an inviting church that draws visitors from far and near.

Set your GPS to Split and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 15 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Split beckons with new experiences!

Marjan is a well-known park we recommend visiting today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Golden Gate, a heritage-rich historical landmark that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Diocletian's Palace, a history-steeped palace.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Split. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Split by reserving a table at Šug. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of regional cuisine. Looking for something different? Perivoj restoran i kavana offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, La Linea offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Fabrique Pub provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Croatia.

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you'll explore 4 destinations, including Ston, Mali Ston, Trsteno, and Dubrovnik. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Dubrovnik, where you'll spend 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Ston.

Savor the day by heading to Kaštio Fort, a frequently visited castle that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Stonske Zidine, where you can soak in the visually striking surroundings.

When you’ve had your share of Mali Ston, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Trsteno. Your travel time is around 32 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Koruna Fort. Spend some time admiring the respected features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

Set your GPS to Trsteno and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 32 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Trsteno beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Trsteno Arboretum. Spend some time admiring the standout features of the botanical garden before you continue to your next stop.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

Dubrovnik is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Dubrovnik.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Taverna Loggia, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Maskeron offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Magellan, Restaurant & Caffe Bar is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Dubrovnik.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Caffe & Night Bar Amor, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Celtic Bar Belfast Dubrovnik is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Seven Sins also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!