3-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary Starting in Rijeka

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Photo of beautiful view of Rijeka harbor in Croatia.
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Description

Explore the best of Croatia on a remarkable 3-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Rijeka, Opatija, Pula, and Rovinj.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Croatia. You will spend 2 nights in Rijeka. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Croatia. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have you covered.

Upon arriving in Rijeka, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Croatia on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Croatia. Pula Arena and Trsat Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Rijeka, Opatija, Pula, and Rovinj, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Croatia. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Croatia.

Throughout your road trip in Croatia, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Croatia.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodations, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Croatia fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Croatia today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
Drop-off: 10:00

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Day1

Day 1

  • Rijeka - Arrival day
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  • Trsat Castle
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Your road trip adventure in Croatia begins as soon as you reach Rijeka and pick up your car. You’ll stay here for 2 nights and explore what to see in Rijeka, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Rijeka is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Trsat Castle. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Rijeka. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Antonio, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Capote y Ole. Is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Baćo. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Rijeka tonight.

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.

Raise a toast to the start of your 3-day road trip in Croatia!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Rijeka
  • Opatija
  • Pula
  • Rovinj
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Drive 243 km, 4 hours 4 min

  • Maiden with the Seagull
  • Pula Arena
  • Roman Theater
  • Temple of Augustus
  • Church of Saint Euphemia
  • Rovinj Old Town
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Wake up to day 2 of your road trip in Croatia. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Opatija, Pula, and Rovinj. With 1 night to stay in Rijeka, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

A top thing to do today is to explore Rovinj Old Town, a must-see neighborhood in Opatija. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Opatija. This car ride takes around 20 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Maiden With The Seagull, an up-and-coming sculpture that everyone visiting Opatija should see.

After soaking in Opatija’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Pula. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 16 min. When you arrive in Pula, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Pula Arena, an impressive archeological site in Pula. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Roman Theater. This locally appreciated archeological site is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Temple Of Augustus is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most photogenic monument in the region.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Rovinj. This car ride takes around 45 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Rovinj is Church Of St. Euphemia, a beloved church that draws attention for its symbolic features.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Trattoria Krug, 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 Zelena Dolina, 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 Buffet "Cocco", a hidden gem nestled in Rijeka. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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

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Day3

Day 3

  • Rijeka - Departure day
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  • Korzo
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Day 3 of your road trip in Croatia is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Rijeka before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

At the top of the list of places to visit today is Korzo, a street that captures the true essence of Rijeka. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Take some time to indulge in shopping at Rijeka’s popular marketplace, City Center one Rijeka. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Rijeka.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restoran Morčić, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bowling Center Rijeka is another top choice with a popular menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Rijeka. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Croatia!

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How it works

Book your journey with Europe’s biggest travel platform—expert itineraries, instant confirmation, and full flexibility with 24/7 support.

Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

We guarantee

Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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