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

On day 3 of your road trip in Croatia, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Makarska, Veliko Brdo, and Split are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Split, where you will stay for 1 night.

Catch St. Peter Forest Park before the crowds roll in. This majestic park is sure to ignite your curiosity.

After soaking in Makarska’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Veliko Brdo. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 10 min. When you arrive in Veliko Brdo, it's time to take a break from the road.

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

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Veliko Brdo, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Split. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 7 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Marjan. Spend some time admiring the peaceful features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Golden Gate. This often recommended historical landmark is a traveler-favorite in the town.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Diocletian's Palace. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the palace.

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

Split 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 Split.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Split by securing a table at Šug. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional regional menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Perivoj restoran i kavana, another premier location with a delectable menu.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to La Linea for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Fabrique Pub is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Zadar. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zadar, where will spend 2 nights.

When you arrive in Zadar, it's time to take a break from the road.

Savor the day by heading to Sea Organ, an impressive art installation that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Roman Forum, where you can soak in the breathtaking surroundings.

Next, explore Market Zadar, yet another often recommended place to see in the area. After the market, make time to go to Church Of St. Donatus. This heritage-rich church is well worth the visit. Lastly, head to Narodni Trg, an underrated public square you won’t want to miss.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Zadar. Check in and relax 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 a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Pizzeria Šime, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Harvatski restorant "Galiya"? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restoran Zadar - Jadera as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Zadar.

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

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Nin, Grad Benkovac, and Grad Biograd na Moru. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Grad Benkovac, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Nin’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Zadar behind. This drive usually takes around 21 min. Nin welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Solana Nin Salt Museum. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Grad Biograd na Moru.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Town Of Biograd, a curiosity-inducing city hall that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Plaža Dražica and admire its romantic features.

When you’re ready, continue to Plaža Soline, an often recommended beach beloved by locals and tourists alike.

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.

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.

Your itinerary for day 8 of your road trip in Croatia includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Šibenik, Vid, and Trsteno. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dubrovnik, where you'll spend 1 night.

Make a stop at St. Nicholas’ Fortress. This intriguing castle is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Šibenik Cathedral located in Šibenik for another exciting encounter.

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 1 min. Upon reaching Vid, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Archaeological Museum Narona. Spend some time admiring the photogenic features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Trsteno. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 19 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Trsteno Arboretum, an increasingly popular botanical garden that everyone visiting Trsteno should see.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Taverna Loggia, an iconic dining spot in Dubrovnik. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Maskeron, a popular restaurant in Dubrovnik. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Magellan, Restaurant & Caffe Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Dubrovnik. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Caffe & Night Bar Amor, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Celtic Bar Belfast Dubrovnik, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Seven Sins provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!