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

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Split has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Split by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Bacvice, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Split. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Immerse yourself in Split’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Marjan. This mesmerizing park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of West Bank, a must-visit boardwalk 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 Split Viewpoint (belvedere), a curiosity-inducing observation deck. For a change of scene, check out Diocletian's Palace, known for its history-steeped features. We also recommend visiting Split Breakwater Lighthouse. This lighthouse is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Croatia is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

Visit Marmontova Street in Split for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique boutiques and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Marmontova Street has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

As you explore more of Split, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

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

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.

Head back to your accommodation in Split and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia!

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Trogir and Šibenik. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Šibenik, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Split. Begin your sightseeing with Trogir Old Town. This worthwhile historical landmark is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Kamerlengo Castle, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Split, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Šibenik City Museum. This beloved museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Šibenik Cathedral, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. St. Nicholas Fortress is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.

As you explore more of Šibenik, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

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. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Šibenik.

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

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

On day 5 of your road trip in Croatia, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Zadar. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zadar, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Šibenik on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Sea Organ is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this noteworthy art installation before continuing your journey. Monument To The Sun is your next stop. This up-and-coming art installation is one of the best-rated sights in Šibenik.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Roman Forum. This culturally significant archeological site is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Church Of St. Donatus and National Museum Zadar. If time allows, end your day with Narodni Trg, a romantic public square that offers a memorable conclusion to your exploration.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Zadar. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Pizzeria Šime, a highly-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're eager to try something different, consider Harvatski restorant "Galiya", another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Yachting Bar & Club is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Caffe Bar Porthos, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is The Factory Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Caska and Lun. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Gajac, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

A blend of natural wonders, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots await you in Zadar on today’s itinerary. First up is the intriguing beach, Zrce Festival Beach. Afterward, continue to Olive Gardens Of Lun, an olive grove every traveler should visit.

As you explore Zadar’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village. Next, make your way to Vrtovi Lunjskih Maslina / Olive Gardens Of Lun / Ulaz 2 / Entrance 2 / Recepcija / Reception. This curiosity-inducing olive grove is an essential stop.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Gajac, 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 Gajac. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Taverna Giardin, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Pizzeria More? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Street Food - BBQ Party as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Gajac.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bacardi, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Straško Camping, Beach Bar Taxi offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Gajac. Caffe Bar Jež Plaza is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Rijeka, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Rijeka. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Gajac promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Trsat Castle. This history-steeped castle is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Petar Kružić Stairway, another historic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Rijeka Cathedral, one of the city’s most increasingly popular attractions, known for its stunning features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Natural History Museum Rijeka. This heritage-rich museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Antonio, a popular restaurant in Rijeka. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Rijeka at Restaurant Capote y Ole. , 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 Baćo. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Rijeka tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Charlie Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Wine Bar "kod Zajca". This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Pula. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Pula. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready for an exciting day in Rijeka. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes an archeological site, a church, a public square, a monument, a museum, a castle and much more! Begin your adventure at Pula Arena. This is a spectacular archeological site you should not miss. Another must-see is Church And Monastery Of St. Francis, a frequently visited church in Rijeka.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Forum Square. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Temple Of Augustus, another of the city’s captivating attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Historical And Maritime Museum Of Istria, a picture-perfect place of interest in the city. If time allows, add Pula Citadel to your itinerary. This curiosity-inducing castle offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Rijeka.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Pula. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Pula's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Pizzeria Samantha, a top-rated dining spot in Pula. If you're in the mood for something new, try Fresh Sandwiches and Salads, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Bistro Romantic Alley. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Pula.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Beach Bar Laplaya. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Shipyard Pub offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Zeppelin - Beach & Lounge Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Greet day 10 of your road trip in Croatia with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Pula for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Rovinj.

Don’t miss Rovinj Old Town in Rovinj today, a must-see neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the town’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the intriguing Panorama, a stunning observation deck in Pula. Next, go to Church Of St. Euphemia.

After visiting Panorama and Church Of St. Euphemia, have a stroll along Pula's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Batana Eco-museum. This eye-catching museum offers a unique experience. Golden Cape Forest Park is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Park Forest Zlatni Rt, one of the most mesmerizing places to visit in Pula.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Pula. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Fine fast food Piantina, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Street Food Two offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restoran "Stari grad 02". With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Pula.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Ulysses is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Caffe Bar "dvojka", offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bolero. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!