12-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Split traveling west to Šibenik, Zadar, Plitvička Jezera, Rovinj, Opatija, and Rijeka

Day 2 of your road trip across Croatia promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Split. You have 1 night left in Split. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Start your day at Marjan. This serene park is a popular place to see in Split. Then, wander over to West Bank. If romantic sites excite you, this boardwalk will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Golden Gate. This standout historical landmark is a favorite among visitors.

Split offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Diocletian's Palace is a widely recognized spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the palace, don’t forget to check out the heritage-rich Diocletian's Cellars. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this beloved archeological site. Wrap up your self-guided tour of Split's top attractions with a visit to Split Breakwater Lighthouse.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Babylon, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? DeListes restaurant Split offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bokeria Kitchen & Wine. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Split.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Caffe Bar Mythos, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Caffe Bar Legis is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Caffe Bar Tik also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Say good night to Split and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Trogir and Šibenik. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Šibenik, where will spend 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Trogir. This car ride takes around 38 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Trogir is Trogir Old Town, an intriguing historical landmark that draws attention for its enchanting features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Kamerlengo Castle, a grand castle that stands out in the town.

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.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Šibenik City Museum and explore the standout features. Next, make your way to Šibenik Cathedral, another highlight in Šibenik. When you’re done exploring the church, continue to St. Nicholas Fortress, a history-steeped castle.

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

Šibenik 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 Šibenik.

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

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

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 5 of your road trip in Croatia includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Zadar. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zadar, where you'll spend 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Zadar, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Šibenik to Zadar may take around 1 hour 3 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Zadar, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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 underrated art installation is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Church Of St. Donatus. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the church. Next, take your journey to Archaeological Museum Zadar, a worthwhile museum. Conclude your sightseeing at National Museum Zadar, known for its history-steeped features.

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

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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

On day 7 of your road trip in Croatia, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Rovinj are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rovinj, where you will stay for 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Plitvička Jezera, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Rovinj. Your travel time is around 3 hours 34 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Golden Cape Forest Park, an often recommended park that everyone visiting Rovinj should see. Next, head to Park Forest Zlatni Rt. This eye-catching park is one of the most curiosity-inducing attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Church Of St. Euphemia, a history-steeped church popular among locals as well as travelers.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Kantinon Tavern, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Scuba restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at La Vigna as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Rovinj.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Mediterraneo Cocktail Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Blue Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Havana Rovinj Cocktail Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Greet day 8 of your road trip in Croatia with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Rovinj, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Pula.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Rovinj, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Pula. This drive usually takes around 37 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Pula Arena, an extraordinary archeological site known for its historic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Zerostrasse, a curiosity-inducing 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 historic castle. Make sure to also explore Historical And Maritime Museum Of Istria, an often recommended museum. For your last stop, consider Forum Square, a history-steeped public square that many travelers find worth the detour.

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

Rovinj 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 Rovinj.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Da Piero, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try La Perla? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Balbi Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Rovinj.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Block Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Caffe Bar “sax” offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Rovinj. Caffe Bar "bruno" is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Pobri and Opatija. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Opatija, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Rovinj and set your GPS to Pobri. 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 5 min. Upon reaching Pobri, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Volosko Beach, an underrated beach in Pobri. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Opatija. This car ride takes around 11 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Mala Fortica. Then, head to Opatija. This intriguing beach is a traveler-favorite in the village.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Croatian Museum Of Tourism. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the museum. Next, take your journey to The Wall Of Fame, an up-and-coming point of interest.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Bistro Yacht club, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Boćarija Grill offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Ružmarin. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Opatija.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Mare Cocktail Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Choco Bar - Bonbonnière Kraš. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Colosseum Lounge & Beach Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

Say good night to Opatija and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Krk and Vrbnik. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Rijeka, where will spend 1 night.

Set your GPS to Krk and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 3 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Krk beckons with new experiences!

Square Tower is a worthwhile monument we recommend visiting today. Discover its standout features before continuing your self-guided tour to Roman Catholic Diocese Of Krk, a historic church that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Frankopan Castle, an awe-inspiring castle. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Punta Di Galetto Beach, an eye-catching and truly unique beach.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Vrbnik. This drive usually takes around 18 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 Zgribnica Beach, an increasingly popular beach that everyone visiting Vrbnik should see. Next, head to Narrowest Street. This picture-perfect street is one of the most curiosity-inducing attractions in the region.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Rijeka. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Dine in style at Antonio, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Capote y Ole. Boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Baćo. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Rijeka.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Charlie Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Wine Bar "kod Zajca", offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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