12-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Split traveling north to Šibenik, Zadar, Pag, Rijeka, and Pula

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

One of the most iconic spots you can visit today is Bacvice. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

One of the most interesting attractions included on the itinerary is Marjan. This romantic park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Golden Gate and learn what makes this photogenic historical landmark unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the worthwhile Split Ethnographic Museum. After exploring the museum, head to Diocletian's Palace. This extraordinary palace is a highlight in Split.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Babylon, a top-rated dining destination in Split. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider DeListes restaurant Split, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bokeria Kitchen & Wine. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Split this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Caffe Bar Mythos, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Caffe Bar Legis, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Caffe Bar Tik likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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 3 of your road trip in Croatia includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Trogir and Šibenik. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Šibenik, where you'll spend 2 nights.

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

When you're ready for some sights, head to Trogir Old Town, a locally appreciated historical landmark in Trogir. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Kamerlengo Castle. This intriguing castle is a top recommendation in the area.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Trogir and set your GPS to Šibenik. 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 54 min. Upon reaching Šibenik, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Šibenik City Museum, an up-and-coming museum 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 Šibenik Cathedral and admire its UNESCO world heritage-listed features.

When you’re ready, continue to St. Nicholas Fortress, a beloved castle beloved by locals and tourists alike.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Šibenik. Šibenik 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 Šibenik. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Antin Gušt Restaurant, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Fry Guy offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Atrium. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Šibenik.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Caffe Palma. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Mystic, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Azimut provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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 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.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Šibenik and set your GPS to Zadar. 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 1 hour 3 min. Upon reaching Zadar, 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 Sea Organ. Spend some time admiring the enchanting features of the art installation before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Monument To The Sun. This locally appreciated art installation is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Roman Forum. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the archeological site. Next, take your journey to Archaeological Museum Zadar, an intriguing museum. Conclude your sightseeing at Church Of St. Donatus, known for its inviting 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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Zadar. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Make sure to reserve a table at Pizzeria Šime, 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 Harvatski restorant "Galiya", 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 Restoran Zadar - Jadera, a hidden gem nestled in Zadar. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Yachting Bar & Club, known for its inviting atmosphere. Caffe Bar Porthos is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Factory Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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

When you’ve had your share of Zadar, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Pag. Your travel time is around 53 min.

Pag Island View is a locally appreciated observation deck we recommend visiting today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Pag Beach Prosika, an eye-catching beach that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Pag Island, a standout beach.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Pag, 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 Pag's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Dine in style at Hotel Belveder, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, BUFFET UHLINAC boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Konoba Bodulo. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Pag.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Beach Bar Azzuro I, known for its lively atmosphere. Cocktail Bar Roko is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.

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

On day 8 of your road trip in Croatia, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Rijeka are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rijeka, where you will stay for 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 Rijeka.

Set your GPS to Rijeka and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 16 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Rijeka beckons with new experiences!

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Trsat Castle, a well-known castle 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 Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat and admire its culturally significant features.

When you’re ready, continue to Rijeka Cathedral, a frequently visited church beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Natural History Museum Rijeka, 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 Rijeka. Rijeka offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Antonio, a top-rated dining spot in Rijeka. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Capote y Ole. , another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Baćo. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Rijeka.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Charlie Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Wine Bar "kod Zajca" provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001 offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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 Pula. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Pula, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Rijeka, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Pula. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 27 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Pula Arena, an astonishing archeological site known for its culturally significant features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Zerostrasse, an up-and-coming cave system.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Pula Citadel and uncover the details of this standout castle. Make sure to also explore Historical And Maritime Museum Of Istria, an increasingly popular museum. For your last stop, consider Temple Of Augustus, a symbolic monument that many travelers find worth the detour.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Pula. 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 Pula, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Beach Bar Laplaya, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Shipyard Pub offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Zeppelin - Beach & Lounge Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!