Croatia Dubrovnik Self-Drive Guide 2026: Game of Thrones + Harbor Ferries + Plitvice Lakes

Croatia, once a republic within Yugoslavia, has become the Mediterranean’s hottest vacation destination. Game of Thrones filmed in Dubrovnik, making this medieval old city famous worldwide; the crystal-blue Adriatic, affordable food, and friendly prices have turned Croatia into Europe’s newest travel hotspot.

Self-Drive Route Planning (7–10 Days)

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Route A: Northern Loop (Best for entering/exiting via Zagreb)

Zagreb → Plitvice Lakes National Park (2 days) → Zadar (1 day) → Split (2 days) → Hvar (1 day) → Dubrovnik (2 days) → Return

Route B: Southern Deep Dive (Best for entering/exiting via Dubrovnik)

Dubrovnik (3 days) → Korčula (1 day) → Split (2 days) → Plitvice Lakes (1 day) → Zagreb

Car Rental Options

Self-driving is the best way to experience Croatia — coastal city highway conditions are excellent. QEEQ is Europe’s largest car rental comparison platform and covers all major Croatian rental agencies. AutoEurope has many partner rental companies with transparent all-inclusive pricing. Peak season booking should be made at least 1 month in advance.

Dubrovnik: Game of Thrones’ King’s Landing

Dubrovnik Old City is the filming location for King’s Landing in Game of Thrones. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994.

Must-visit spots:

• City walls: The 2 km of walls encircling the old city are the essence of Dubrovnik; entry about €35
• Lovrijenac Fortress: A medieval governor’s residence, now a history museum
• Mount Srđ: Take the cable car to the summit for panoramic views of the red-roofed old city and the Adriatic

Island-hopping from the city: Lokrum Island is just a 500-meter boat ride from the old city and is one of the Game of Thrones filming locations.

Split: The Roman Emperor’s Palace

Split’s most famous landmark is Diocletian’s Palace — the retirement residence of Roman Emperor Diocletian. This 1,700-year-old palace is today the heart of the old city.

Island-hopping from Split:

• Hvar: The lavender island, with vibrant nightlife
• Brač: Home of the most distinctive “pointed beach” in the Adriatic — Zlatni Rat
• Korčula: The legendary birthplace of Marco Polo

Ferry booking: Ferries between Croatia’s islands are operated by Jadrolinija and Kapetan Luka. Book in advance through Klook during peak season for reliable schedules and transparent pricing.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park consists of 16 lakes and 92 waterfalls, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visiting tips:

• Visiting time: Allow a full day; enter the park before 8 AM
• Routes: The park has upper and lower loop trails, about 4 hours and 2–3 hours respectively
• Best season: April–June when water volume is highest; autumn for rich fall colors

Peak season entry is about €30/person; online ticket purchase allows you to reserve a time slot.

Travel Insurance

Croatia has a low crime rate, but self-drive risks should not be ignored. Travel insurance including self-drive accident coverage is recommended.

AirHelp offers Europe travel insurance covering Croatia, including emergency medical care and flight delay compensation.

Practical Information

• Currency: Croatia joined the Eurozone in 2023 and uses the Euro
• Best tourist season: May–June and September
• Parking: Almost impossible to park in the old city; staying outside or taking the bus in is recommended

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