Destination: Dubrovnik

Plan an unforgettable road trip exploring Croatia and experience this small country packed with national parks, epic coastal roads, vibrant cities, and history at every turn. The top notch gastronomic pleasures will round off any style of holiday perfectly.

Four wheeled freedom – the joy of exploring Croatia by car

“And just like that, we’re on our way to everywhere.” – Emery Lord, Open Road Summer

Travel at your own pace by car and discover more of what treasures lie hidden between the larger cities and villages. Imagine unlimited access to pristine nature, beaches, and special places off the beaten track. 

Pleasantly drivable, Croatia has miles of scenic roads that are safe and well signposted, making for a perfect destination to hit the road with your wanderlust in tow. There are new and impressive highways that connect the country from end to end, as well as efficient car ferry services to the idyllic islands. Take our advice and turn off onto the old roads for more authentic and memorable experiences.

Whether you have a week, or a month, Croatia is the perfect destination to map out a perfect driving holiday that includes all interests and activities. Be it a foodie trip, family holiday, romantic escape, outdoors adventure, or an exploration of historical and cultural sights – Croatia has it all.

Suggested driving routes in Croatia

Our suggested routes are bookended with historical cities offering accommodations, restaurants, nightlife and cultural events to begin and wrap up your trip nicely. You may just be spontaneous and choose to stay at one of the lovely spots that seduced you to stop along the way…

• SPLIT – DUBROVNIK
• PELJESAC PENINSULA WINE ROAD
• ISTRIAN PENINSULA – PLITVICE – ZADAR

Each route includes a national park or historic attraction, gastronomic specialties of the region, and more.

CROATIAN ROAD TRIPS: THE ADRIATIC COASTAL ROUTE D8 – DRIVING ROUTE – SPLIT TO DUBROVNIK

Get your road trip playlist ready!

The Adriatic coastal road D8 runs from Istria all the way to the Montenegrin border south of Dubrovnik. Here we feature the portion that connects the cities of Split and Dubrovnik.

You will drive some of the most spectacular and dramatic stretches of road that carry you along with the shores of the glittering Adriatic sea, flanked by the monumental ridges of the Dinaric alps the entire way.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Split
• Biokovo Nature Park & Skywalk
• Makarska Riviera beaches
• Hvar island ferry
• Drvenik old village
• Brac island ferry
• Mljet island ferry
• Neretva Valley
• Ston & Peljesac Peninsula
• Dubrovnik

Along this route are access points for ferries to various islands, parks, and the Peljesac peninsula.

Round trip Dubrovnik to Split via Hvar island

DUBROVNIK – HVAR ISLAND – SPLIT

A superb way to reach Hvar island, and not drive the same route back to Split. Take the D8 from Dubrovnik to the village of Drvenik (approx 2 hours), where the ferry connects frequently to the eastern end of Hvar island. The drive from the Sucuraj port to Hvar town is 79 km of winding roads – but again, what is in between is just as wonderful – beaches, villages, and ancient lavender fields. After enjoying the glory of Hvar –  catch the car ferry from Stari Grad to Split. 

TIP: For a unique experience, and perfect break from the drive before the ferry trip: Head up to the historic old village above Drvenik (Staro Selo). Stretch your legs and explore the abandoned village and enjoy an organic olive oil tasting and light lunch of local specialties in the shade of a peaceful terrace.

CROATIAN ROAD TRIPS: PELJESAC PENINSULA – WINE ROADS

Peljesac Peninsula – The southern Dalmatia region that boasts not only award winning wines, and fine shellfish – the oysters so superior that Roman emperors ordered them for delivery to their banquet tables. The 80 km peninsula has one road running along its spine and is a dream to drive.

The magic starts in the towns of Ston and Mali Ston, with medieval walls wrapping the hillsides, and bays full of oyster beds bobbing in the most turquoise of seas. Pass through valleys of vineyards, and family run wineries, beaches, and rustic charm beckoning you to pullover. 

Plan an entire day of exploring, or a shorter stop in Ston for some remarkable history and heritage. Since the construction of the Peljesac bridge and highway; the trip between Split and Dubrovnik has become smoother, and access to the peninsula easier. Keep driving and you can hop on a ferry to Korcula island and not look back!

Interesting Fact: Napoleon’s army constructed many parts of this route during his time in Dalmatia.

Hint: Ston is only 1 hour from Dubrovnik, a good spot to kick of your road trip, or have a break before arriving in the bustling city.

MLJET ISLAND – THE GREEN OASIS – trip extension option

Near Ston, a ferry to Mljet island runs out of the bay of Prapratno; whisking you away to one of the most enchanting islands in Croatia. Most of the island is declared a National Park, and this is where you will become truly immersed in untouched Mediterranean nature.

CROATIAN ROAD TRIPS: ISTRIAN PENINSULA – PLITVICE – ZADAR

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Truffles, wine and gastronomy
• Medieval hilltop villages – Motovun, Groznjan, Hum
• Brijuni National Park
• Pula and Rovinj
• Plitvice Lakes National Park • Zadar

Take in the beloved Istrian region of Croatia where truffles, fine wines, and other gourmet specialties draw visitors from around the world. Let yourself be seduced by the storybook hilltop villages, stopping along the drive to indulge! Istria also has some of the most scenic driving roads in Croatia that will keep you driving one turn after another. Experience Roman history in Pula to romance in Rovinj, captivating nature and history of Brijuni Island National Park.

From Istra head to Plitvice Lakes National Park – Croatia’s most famous national park for its magnificent series of waterfalls spilling into emerald green lakes (by private car is absolutely the best way to reach Plitvice). Treat yourself by strolling through  the natural splendor of the park.

Continue the next day to Zadar. A stunning coastal city of incredible architecture, culture, and history. Be sure to roll in before sundown to catch the sunset and the Sea organ and Greeting to the sun solar light show – two experiences unique to Zadar.

Tips for a Perfect Road Trip in Croatia

• Parking is expensive and difficult in cities like Dubrovnik, and Split – return your rental car upon arrival or when departing.
• If you plan to cross international borders of nearby countries – Montenegro, BIH, Slovenia – you will need papers from the rental agency.
• Some agencies offer one way trip drop offs in major destinations for a fee.
• New highways are a toll route in most parts

Info & links

• HAC – Croatian roadside assistance https://www.hac.hr/en/service-information/roadside-assistance
• Ferry info: https://www.jadrolinija.hr/en/about-us/ships/ferries
• Biokovo Nature Park – https://pp-biokovo.hr/en/home
• Brijuni National Park: https://www.np-brijuni.hr/en/plan-your-visit/excursions
• Plitvice Lakes National Park: https://np-plitvicka-jezera.hr/en/
• Mljet island National Park: https://np-mljet.hr/?lang=en
• Split: https://visitsplit.com/en/1/welcome-to-split
• Peljesac peninsula: https://visitdubrovnik.hr/destinations/peljesac/
• Dubrovnik: https://tzdubrovnik.hr/lang/en/index.html
• Zadar: https://www.zadar.hr/en/experience/history-culture/sea-organ-sun-salutation
• Istria: https://www.istra.hr/en

Standing on the road at the top of the hill, the view appears all of a sudden: the deep blue sea and next to it Dubrovnik, wrapped up like a parcel in its white walls.
This red-roofed city is bursting with wonders and views that leave you speechless… which is why it’s so often used as a film set! It’s certainly one of the most beautiful cities that I’ve ever visited, and it perfectly lives up to its moniker of the “pearl of the Adriatic”. Each year it draws in millions of tourists who flood its streets day and night, packing out the open-air bars, enjoying the Mediterranean vibes, and visiting buildings that flaunt their Venetian influence.
It’s a paradise for photography fans! I’m going to show you the city’s best angles that you absolutely shouldn’t miss. Here are the top 10 things to photograph in Dubrovnik and share on social media.

Top 10 things to photograph in Dubrovnik

1.The Stradun

Une publication partagée par Simone Luigi Colombo ?? (@srake) le 19 Juil. 2018 à 4 :02 PDT

The name of this street reveals the influence Venice had on Dubrovnik: it’s a former canal that was filled in to become the city’s main street, leading from the Pile Gate to the port. It divides the city in two, and is teeming all day long with tourists walking along it or sitting at one of the many picturesque bars for a bite of something to eat or drink. The white stone, the colourful window shutters on the houses and the two bell towers (on the Franciscan Monastery and the Clock Tower) make the perfect backdrop for photos, particularly when the lights are low. That dusky hour after sunset, with the swallows swooping overhead, sparkles with magic! Fans of street photography will be in their element.

2.The Walls of the Old Town

Une publication partagée par Simone Luigi Colombo ?? (@srake) le 21 Juil. 2018 à 4 :03 PDT

Without a doubt, the Walls are Dubrovnik’s main attraction. Although it’s expensive (over €20), it’s absolutely worth it because from up there you can enjoy the best views of the city! The walk is 2 km long, but it’s not difficult. Once you’ve climbed up one of the three entrances (the Pile Gate, Plo?e Gate or Maritime Museum) you’ll be left speechless. Dubrovnik is at your feet, with its glistening red rooftops and its walls towering above the sea. If you want to visit when it’s a bit cooler and there aren’t so many tourists, I recommend going in later in the day at around 7:30pm so that you can have it all to yourself (or almost) until closing time at 8:30pm. That way, you won’t have tourists getting in the way of your photos. And at sunset, the view is stunning!

3.Fort Lovrijenac

I’m not sure how many tourists visit this site, even though it’s included in the ticket for the walls. Fort Lovrijenac is actually just outside the Old Town, on a rocky outcrop overlooking the sea and a bay. It’s a strenuous climb up some stairs to get there, but thankfully the thick walls keep things nice and cool! The fort doesn’t contain much in particular, but from up here you’re rewarded with fantastic views over the sea, stretching as far as the eye can see, and of course over Dubrovnik. From the top of its walls, where you’ll find some old cannon, the city looks so small it’s as if you’re photographing it from a drone!

4.Dubrovnik by kayak

There are all sorts of excursions you can do in Dubrovnik, but kayaking is one of the best. You start in “Blackwater Bay” (as it was renamed in Game of Thrones) and head out into the open sea to circumnavigate the island of Lokrum, dotted with caves and boasting crystal-clear waters, before turning to face the city and paddling alongside its walls, which look even more imposing from down below! I recommend doing this at sunset so you can admire Dubrovnik’s silhouette as the sun goes down. Fab photos guaranteed! And remember to take something to clean your lens and keep it dry!

5.Dubrovnik cable car

Now that drones are readily available, overhead photos are really in vogue. But not everybody has one. No problem! You can ride the cable car up to the mountain behind the city for a photo worth shouting about! Dubrovnik will look like a LEGO town, with its perfectly spaced walls and towers, the beautiful red rooftops and the blue sea surrounding the city. The €20 return ticket is a great investment. You can even take a photo of a model sitting down with this amazing panorama behind them. The Panorama Restaurant & Bar is the perfect place to relax while enjoying the breathtaking view, both day and night.

6.Luža Square

The heart of Dubrovnik! Luža Square is where all of the city’s most important and beautiful palaces are. They’re like delicate lace made of white stone. There’s the Renaissance Sponza Palace, the Clock Tower and, on the other side, the Venetian-style Baroque Church of St Blaise. In the middle of the square is the Orlando Column, the symbol of Dubrovnik. Sculpted by Antonio Ragusino in 1418, this is where the city’s major events were celebrated. The name Luža, comes from the loggia of the bell tower, which governed the lives of inhabitants and warned of danger. Needless to say, these buildings are perfect for some stunning photos, perhaps even immortalising a few tourists perched at a table in the square.

7.Plo?e Gate and the view of the Old Port

Une publication partagée par Simone Luigi Colombo ?? (@srake) le 23 Juil. 2018 à 4 :24 PDT

The Plo?e Gate is Dubrovnik’s newest gate, built after the expansion of the Benedictine monastery. As you pass through, the incredibly high stone walls frame a marvellous view that opens out above the Old Port, where boats bob on the emerald waters. The backdrop is the imposing St John’s Fortress, once an impenetrable bastion. While it’s a beautiful place to photograph in the daytime, at nightfall it becomes spectacular. The colours change every minute as the lights that run along the edge become brighter. Simply stunning! Quick tip: the holes on the bridge just outside the gate make the perfect frame for your photos!

8.The high point of the Old Town



The Old Town isn’t completely flat. The land slopes up from the sea, offering fantastic views thanks to the many steps. While the shoreline isn’t very steep, on the opposite side there are many, many stairs leading up to the Buža Gate and the walls. But don’t worry: it’s well worth the effort when you reach the top! Turn around and you can gaze out over the city through the bougainvillea and the clothes hanging on washing lines as the steep staircase at your feet snakes its way back down the slope. It’s heaven if you’re a fan of details: the signs, the strings of streetlights, the cats stretching out on the rooftops, the vegetation spurting up between the houses. It has to be seen to be believed!

9.The Cloister of the Franciscan Monastery



Dubrovnik has two monasteries within the Old Town, both of which are truly splendid. The Benedictine one near the Plo?e Gate is being restored at the moment (you can still visit), but next to the Pile Gate the Franciscan Monastery still retains its centuries-old charm. The church – one of the few buildings to survive the devastating earthquake of 1667 – has a fantastic Gothic doorway and a beautiful cloister. Rays of sunlight fall through the cloister columns, creating dazzling patterns that are just asking to be snapped!

10.The large Onofrio’s Fountain



Life-giving and beautiful. What can you say about the large Onofrio’s Fountain? It takes its name from Onofrio de la Cava, the Neapolitan who built it in the 15th century, and it has been carrying drinking water to the city for centuries. Located in the square next to the Pile Gate, it used to be two stories high, but the one that remains is still wonderful, its carved masks gushing with fresh water. Watching the world coming and going around the fountain is fascinating. There are thirsty tourists, weary people resting on its steps, visitors gathering for city tours (which leave from here), the hustle and bustle of the Stradun, street artists, and so on. It’s an all-day show! So you always have to have your camera at the ready!

I hope my tips will prove useful. Now that you know the top 10 places to photograph in Dubrovnik, all that remains is to put it to the test. Book a flight to Dubrovnik, then share your snaps on social media and be the envy of all your friends 😉