11-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar to Plitvička Jezera, Opatija, Rovinj, Rijeka, Krk, and Split

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Zadar. You’ll stay in Zadar for 1 night.

Whether you decide to explore Zadar on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Catch Monument To The Sun before the crowds roll in. This romantic art installation is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the enchanting features of Sea Organ, a must-visit art installation in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Roman Forum, an intriguing archeological site. For a change of scene, check out Archaeological Museum Zadar, known for its history-steeped features. We also recommend visiting Church Of St. Donatus. This church is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest. Lastly, end your day with a visit to Market Zadar, yet another worthwhile attraction in Zadar.

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.

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

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.

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

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

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

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Opatija, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Plitvička Jezera to Opatija may take around 2 hours 38 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Opatija, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit The Wall Of Fame, an increasingly popular point of interest 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 Croatian Museum Of Tourism and admire its standout features.

When you’re ready, continue to Maiden With The Seagull, a frequently visited sculpture beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Slatina, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Opatija. Opatija offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Opatija. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Bistro Yacht club, an iconic dining spot in Opatija. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Boćarija Grill, a popular restaurant in Opatija. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Ružmarin, a hidden gem nestled in Opatija. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Mare Cocktail Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Choco Bar - Bonbonnière Kraš is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Colosseum Lounge & Beach Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Pula and Rovinj. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Rovinj, where will spend 2 nights.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Pula.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Pula. This car ride takes around 1 hour 16 min.

Savor the day by heading to Pula Arena, an astonishing archeological site that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Forum Square, where you can soak in the visually striking surroundings.

Next, explore Temple Of Augustus, yet another captivating place to see in the area.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Pula, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Rovinj. This drive usually takes around 39 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Park Forest Zlatni Rt, an up-and-coming park known for its eye-catching features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Church Of St. Euphemia, an often recommended church.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Rovinj, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Dine in style at Kantinon Tavern, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Scuba restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out La Vigna. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Rovinj.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Mediterraneo Cocktail Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Blue Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Havana Rovinj Cocktail Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Croatia!

On day 6 of your road trip in Croatia, you’ll start and end your day in Rovinj, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Rovinj, there’s no need to rush. Experience Grožnjan, Višnjan, Gedići, and Rošini to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Grožnjan, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Rovinj to Grožnjan may take around 59 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Grožnjan, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Town Loggia, an often recommended monument that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Grožnjan, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Višnjan. This drive usually takes around 32 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Astronomsko Društvo Višnjan. Spend some time admiring the awe-inspiring features of the astronomical observatory before you continue to your next stop.

After soaking in Višnjan’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Gedići. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 8 min. When you arrive in Gedići, it's time to take a break from the road.

Baredine Cave is a frequently visited cave we recommend visiting today. Discover its enchanting features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Rovinj.

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

Dine in style at Da Piero, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, La Perla boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Balbi Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Rovinj.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Block Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Caffe Bar “sax” provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Caffe Bar "bruno" offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Croatia.

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Rijeka. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Rijeka, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Rovinj, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Rijeka. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 17 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Rijeka is Trsat Castle, a well-known castle that draws attention for its romantic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat, a culturally significant church that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Rijeka Cathedral, a frequently visited church that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore City Clock Tower, a nearby monument, highly recommended by other travelers.

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

Rijeka 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 Rijeka.

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

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Charlie Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Wine Bar "kod Zajca", the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001 provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 9 of your road trip in Croatia, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Split are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Split, where you will stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Krk’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Split. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 4 hours 27 min. When you arrive in Split, it's time to take a break from the road.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Split Ethnographic Museum, a worthwhile museum that everyone visiting Split should see. Next, head to Diocletian's Palace. This visually striking palace is one of the most extraordinary attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Golden Gate, a photogenic historical landmark popular among locals as well as travelers. Old Town Hall is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this often recommended city hall before you continue your journey.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Nevera Tavern, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Perivoj restoran i kavana is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Konoba Laganini. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Split tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, La Linea is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Fabrique Pub is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Trogir. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Zadar, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Trogir and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 37 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Trogir beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Trogir Ciovo. Spend some time admiring the mesmerizing features of the beach before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Chapel Of St. Sebastian. This frequently visited church is a traveler-favorite in the town.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Trogir Old Town. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the historical landmark. Next, take your journey to Sjeverna Vog, a frequently visited historical landmark. Conclude your sightseeing at Kamerlengo Castle, known for its romantic features.

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.

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

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

Keep the evening going at The Garden Lounge, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Down Town, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Beach Bar Bamboo, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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