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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Makarska, Veliko Brdo, and Split. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Split, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Make time for Osejava Forest Park, an up-and-coming park that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find St. Peter Forest Park, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal.

Veliko Brdo’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Makarska behind. This drive usually takes around 10 min. Veliko Brdo welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Vepric - Shrine Of Our Lady Of Lourdes and explore the picture-perfect features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Split. This car ride takes around 1 hour 5 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Diocletian's Palace, an extraordinary palace in Split. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Golden Gate. This increasingly popular historical landmark is a top recommendation in the area.

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 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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Split by securing a reservation at Šug. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of regional cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, Perivoj restoran i kavana boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, La Linea offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Fabrique Pub. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

On day 5 of your road trip in Croatia, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Split and Grad Biograd na Moru are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Grad Benkovac, where you will stay for 1 night.

Catch Marjan before the crowds roll in. This mesmerizing park is sure to ignite your curiosity.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Grad Biograd na Moru, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Split to Grad Biograd na Moru may take around 1 hour 41 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Grad Biograd na Moru, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Town Of Biograd, an intriguing city hall known for its romantic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Plaža Dražica, an intriguing beach.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Plaža Soline and uncover the details of this peaceful beach.

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

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

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Parići, Rupine, and Zadar. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Zadar, where you still have 2 nights left to stay.

Parići is brimming with adventures.

Kolovare Beach brings Zadar's character to life. This mesmerizing beach is a highlight of any visit in the hamlet. Then, enjoy Sea Organ, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Monument To The Sun, one of the hamlet’s most up-and-coming attractions, known for its romantic features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Zadar and set your GPS to Parići. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 49 min. Upon reaching Parići, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Paklenica National Park, an underrated national park that everyone visiting Parići should see.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Parići and set your GPS to Rupine. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 45 min. Upon reaching Rupine, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the hamlet's best attractions, visit Pariževačka Glavica, an intriguing cliff 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 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.

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

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

Day 8 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.

One of the most often recommended attractions included on the itinerary is Roman Forum. This historic archeological site will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Church Of St. Donatus and learn what makes this culturally significant church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the up-and-coming Market Zadar. After exploring the market, head to Narodni Trg. This worthwhile public square is a highlight in Zadar. As your day continues, stop by Queen Jelena Madijevka Park, known for its eye-catching features.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Roko, a top-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Harbor CookHouse & Club, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran Urnebes. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

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

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 3 places, which are Smiljan, Kaniža Gospićka, and Žabica. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lika-Senj County, where will spend 1 night.

Smiljan’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Zadar behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 20 min. Smiljan welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Nikola Tesla Memorial Center, an increasingly popular museum in Smiljan. Explore its culturally significant features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking in Smiljan’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 8 min. When you arrive in Kaniža Gospićka, it's time to take a break from the road.

Savor the day by heading to Public Institution "velebit Nature Park", an often recommended nature reserve that draws visitors from near and far.

Set your GPS to Žabica and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 5 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Žabica beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Jasikovac, Park Suma. Spend some time admiring the picturesque features of the park before you continue to your next stop.

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.

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 Lika-Senj County, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at The Highlanders pub, an iconic dining spot in Lika-Senj County. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Kavana Milinković, a popular restaurant in Lika-Senj County. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav, a hidden gem nestled in Lika-Senj County. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Caffe Bar Fortuna stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Amadeus offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Caffe Bar Bevanda is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 11 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Šibenik. You’ll stay in Šibenik for 1 night.

Šibenik is brimming with adventures.

Experience St. Nicholas’ Fortress, a beloved castle in the city. Then, head to Aquarium Terrarium Šibenik and soak in the ambiance of this photogenic aquarium.

There are many interesting places to see in Šibenik, and when you are ready for more, go to Šibenik City Museum. This is one of the city’s most intriguing heritage-rich spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the worthwhile Šibenik Cathedral.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Gastro Italiano, a highly-rated dining destination in Šibenik. If you're eager to try something different, consider buffet Šimun, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Pub&wine bar Scala. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Šibenik this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Caffe Bar Garage, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Vintage Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Moby Dick Caffe Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

On day 12 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Vid, Trsteno, and Dubrovnik. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Dubrovnik, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Šibenik and set your GPS to Vid. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 2 hours. Upon reaching Vid, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in Vid is Archaeological Museum Narona, a frequently visited museum that draws attention for its heritage-rich features.

Set your GPS to Trsteno and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 19 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 detailed features of the botanical garden before you continue to your next stop.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Dubrovnik may take around 24 min. Upon your arrival in Dubrovnik, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Bellevue Beach, a beloved beach known for its idyllic features.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Hotel Lapad, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Taj Mahal hotel Lero offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Shizuku -Japanese cuisine-. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Dubrovnik.

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

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Croatia!