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.

Enjoy all that Marjan has to offer. This is a well-known park you should not miss. Another must-see is West Bank, a beloved boardwalk in Split.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Golden Gate. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Diocletian's Palace, another of the city’s spectacular attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Diocletian's Cellars, a heritage-rich place of interest in the city. If time allows, add Split Breakwater Lighthouse to your itinerary. This increasingly popular lighthouse offers the perfect finishing touch to your day 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 lovely dining experience at Babylon, a popular restaurant in Split. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Split at DeListes restaurant Split, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Bokeria Kitchen & Wine. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Split tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Caffe Bar Mythos offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Caffe Bar Legis is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Caffe Bar Tik is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Trogir and Šibenik. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Šibenik, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Trogir. This drive usually takes around 38 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Trogir Old Town is an up-and-coming historical landmark we recommend visiting today. Discover its history-steeped features before continuing your self-guided tour to Kamerlengo Castle, a symbolic castle that’s well-regarded in the area.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Šibenik. This car ride takes around 54 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Šibenik City Museum. Spend some time admiring the historic features of the museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Šibenik Cathedral. This beloved church is a traveler-favorite in the town.

If you're keen to see more, continue to St. Nicholas Fortress. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the castle.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Antin Gušt Restaurant, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Fry Guy is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Atrium. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Šibenik tonight.

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

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

On day 5 of your road trip in Croatia, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Zadar are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zadar, where you will stay for 1 night.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

After soaking in Šibenik’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Zadar. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 3 min. When you arrive in Zadar, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Sea Organ. Spend some time admiring the noteworthy features of the art installation before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Monument To The Sun. This intriguing 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, an underrated museum. Conclude your sightseeing at National Museum Zadar, known for its standout features.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Pizzeria Šime, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Harvatski restorant "Galiya"? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restoran Zadar - Jadera as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Zadar.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

Your itinerary for day 7 of your road trip in Croatia includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Rovinj. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Rovinj, where you'll spend 2 nights.

As you explore Rovinj’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town.

Set your GPS to Rovinj and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 34 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Rovinj beckons with new experiences!

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Golden Cape Forest Park, a beloved park 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 Park Forest Zlatni Rt and admire its mesmerizing features.

When you’re ready, continue to Church Of St. Euphemia, a curiosity-inducing church 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 Rovinj. Rovinj 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 Rovinj, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Kantinon Tavern, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Scuba restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, La Vigna is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Rovinj.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Mediterraneo Cocktail Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Blue Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Havana Rovinj Cocktail Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 8 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Rovinj, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town, including Pula.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Rovinj and set your GPS to Pula. 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 37 min. Upon reaching Pula, 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 Pula Arena. Spend some time admiring the historic features of the archeological site before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Zerostrasse. This locally appreciated cave system is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Pula Citadel. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the castle. Next, take your journey to Historical And Maritime Museum Of Istria, an intriguing museum. Conclude your sightseeing at Forum Square, known for its symbolic features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Rovinj and your accommodation.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Da Piero, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Perla offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Balbi Restaurant. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Rovinj.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Block Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Caffe Bar “sax”. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Caffe Bar "bruno", another top-rated place in the area.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Pobri. This car ride takes around 1 hour 5 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Volosko Beach and explore the stunning features.

When you’ve had your share of Pobri, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Opatija. Your travel time is around 11 min.

Next, continue your sightseeing at Opatija, a curiosity-inducing beach.

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 Croatian Museum Of Tourism and uncover the details of this photogenic museum. Make sure to also explore The Wall Of Fame, a locally appreciated sightseeing destination.

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

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Mare Cocktail Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Choco Bar - Bonbonnière Kraš for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Colosseum Lounge & Beach Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Krk and Vrbnik. 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’ve had your share of Opatija, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Krk. Your travel time is around 1 hour 3 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Square Tower, an intriguing monument in Krk. Explore its culturally significant features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Roman Catholic Diocese Of Krk. This increasingly popular church is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Frankopan Castle is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most historic castle in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the beloved Punta Di Galetto Beach and discover what makes this beach unique.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Vrbnik may take around 18 min. Upon your arrival in Vrbnik, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the day by heading to Zgribnica Beach, a beloved beach that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Narrowest Street, where you can soak in the picture-perfect surroundings.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Antonio, a top-rated dining destination in Rijeka. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Capote y Ole. , another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Baćo. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Rijeka this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Charlie Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Wine Bar "kod Zajca" is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001 is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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