5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dubrovnik to Makarska and Šibenik

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Photo of aerial view of Dubrovnik old city in summer, Croatia.
Photo of aerial panoramic view at famous European travel destination, Dubrovnik cityscape on Adriatic Coast.
5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dubrovnik to Makarska and Šibenik
5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dubrovnik to Makarska and Šibenik
5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dubrovnik to Makarska and Šibenik
5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dubrovnik to Makarska and Šibenik
5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dubrovnik to Makarska and Šibenik
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Experience the freedom of the open road on an unforgettable 5-day road trip in Croatia! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Dubrovnik, Bosanka, Makarska, Split, Grad Skradin, Šibenik, Vid, and Trsteno.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Croatia. You will spend 2 nights in Dubrovnik, 1 night in Makarska, 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 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 Krka National Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Dubrovnik, Bosanka, Makarska, Split, Grad Skradin, 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, accommodations, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day1

Day 1

  • Dubrovnik - Arrival day
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  • Lapad
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Say hello to Dubrovnik! Your exciting road trip through Croatia is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Dubrovnik for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Dubrovnik is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Dubrovnik. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas in the city.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Lucin Kantun Dubrovnik, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Portun offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, TuttoBene Pizzeria & Fast Food is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Dubrovnik.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Promenada, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Sports Pub Mario offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Caffe-bar Van provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Croatia!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Dubrovnik
  • Bosanka
  • Makarska
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Drive 161 km, 2 hours 52 min

  • Dubrovnik Cable Car
  • Porat Dubrovnik
  • Fort Lovrijenac
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Bosanka and Dubrovnik. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Makarska, where you'll spend 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the frequently visited Lovrijenac and allow yourself time to explore.

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

Next, continue your sightseeing at Porat Dubrovnik, a worthwhile point of interest.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Makarska. Makarska 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Makarska, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant Riva | RIVA - MAKARSKA d.o.o., highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Bonaca? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Konoba Novak as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Makarska.

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

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.

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Day3

Day 3

  • Makarska
  • Split
  • Skradin
  • Šibenik
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Drive 238 km, 4 hours 21 min

  • Forest Park Marjan
  • Diocletian's Palace
  • Krka National Park
  • Skradinski buk
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Split and Grad Skradin. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Šibenik, where will spend 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Makarska, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Split. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 16 min.

Marjan is a notable park we recommend visiting today. Discover its eye-catching features before continuing your self-guided tour to Diocletian's Palace, a visually striking palace that’s well-regarded in the area.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Krka National Park, an extraordinary national park 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’ve had your share of Grad Skradin, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Šibenik. Your travel time is around 37 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Skradinski Buk, a worthwhile waterfall that everyone visiting Grad Skradin should see.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Šibenik. 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 Šibenik. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight'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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Caffe Palma. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Mystic offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Azimut, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

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Day4

Day 4

  • Šibenik
  • Vid
  • Trsteno
  • Dubrovnik
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Drive 300 km, 3 hours 54 min

  • St Nicholas’ Fortress
  • St. Jacob’s Cathedral
  • Arheološki muzej Narona
  • Trsteno Arboretum
  • More

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

Let St. Nicholas’ Fortress set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this enchanting castle before continuing your journey. Šibenik Cathedral is your next stop. This increasingly popular church is one of the best-rated sights in Šibenik.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Vid. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 1 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to Archaeological Museum Narona, a worthwhile museum that draws visitors from near and far.

After soaking in Vid’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Trsteno. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 19 min. When you arrive in Trsteno, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Trsteno Arboretum, an intriguing botanical garden known for its romantic features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Dubrovnik, 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 Dubrovnik's best restaurants.

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 consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Dubrovnik tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Caffe & Night Bar Amor, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Celtic Bar Belfast Dubrovnik offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Seven Sins provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

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Day5

Day 5

  • Dubrovnik - Departure day
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  • Forest Park Velika and Mala Petka
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Day 5 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, begin at Velika And Mala Petka Forest Park. This underrated park is a hotspot among locals.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to Dubrovnik’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Dubrovnik.

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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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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