5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pula to Rovinj and Zadar

1 / 42
Photo of Summer scenic view of ancient ruins Roman Amphitheatre in Pula.
Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
From A to Z
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through Croatia. Explore diverse landscapes, discover lively cities, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Croatia. You will spend 2 nights in Pula, 1 night in Rovinj, and 1 night in Zadar. 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 Pula, 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 Sea Organ are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Pula, Rovinj, Plitvica Selo, Zadar, Šibenik, and Opatija, 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!

Read more

Travel details

Set your travel details to find the best price

Flights

Round trip
Round trip
Travel dates

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Compare and choose from the best flights to Pula

Car

Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options

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

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day1

Day 1

  • Pula - Arrival day
  • More
  • Pula Arena
  • More

Your road trip adventure in Croatia begins as soon as you reach Pula and pick up your car. You’ll stay here for 1 night and explore what to see in Pula, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Pula 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 Pula Arena. 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.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Pula. Make yourself at home and unwind before heading 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 Pula, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Pizzeria Samantha, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Fresh Sandwiches and Salads offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bistro Romantic Alley is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Pula.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Beach Bar Laplaya, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Shipyard Pub provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Zeppelin - Beach & Lounge Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Croatia!

Read more
Day2

Day 2

  • Pula
  • Rovinj
  • More

Drive 41 km, 1 hour 22 min

  • Forum Square
  • Temple of Augustus
  • Park forest Zlatni Rt
  • Golden Cape
  • Church of Saint Euphemia
  • More

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

Visiting Forum Square is always a good idea. This locally appreciated public square is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the symbolic wonders of Temple Of Augustus, a must-see monument in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Park Forest Zlatni Rt. This locally appreciated park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Golden Cape Forest Park, where you can take in serene features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Church Of St. Euphemia These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Kantinon Tavern, an iconic dining spot in Rovinj. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Scuba restaurant, a popular restaurant in Rovinj. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of La Vigna, a hidden gem nestled in Rovinj. 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, Mediterraneo Cocktail Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Blue Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Havana Rovinj Cocktail Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Read more
Day3

Day 3

  • Rovinj
  • Zadar
  • More

Drive 409 km, 5 hours 49 min

  • Great Waterfall
  • Sea organ
  • Roman Forum
  • Church of St. Donatus
  • People's Square
  • More

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Plitvica Selo and Zadar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Zadar, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Start your day at Great Waterfall. This romantic waterfall is an up-and-coming place to see in Rovinj. Then, wander over to Sea Organ. If romantic sites excite you, this art installation will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Roman Forum. This breathtaking archeological site is a favorite among visitors.

Rovinj offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Church Of St. Donatus is an increasingly popular spot in the village that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the church, don’t forget to check out the visually striking Narodni Trg. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this up-and-coming public square.

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.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Pizzeria Šime, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Harvatski restorant "Galiya" offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restoran Zadar - Jadera is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option 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!

Read more
Day4

Day 4

  • Zadar
  • Pula
  • More

Drive 549 km, 5 hours 53 min

  • St. Jacob’s Cathedral
  • St Nicholas’ Fortress
  • Maiden with the Seagull
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Šibenik and Opatija. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Pula, where will spend 1 night.

One of the most often recommended attractions included on the itinerary is Šibenik Cathedral. This visually striking church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to St. Nicholas’ Fortress and learn what makes this visually striking castle unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the worthwhile Maiden With The Seagull.

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.

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

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". Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Pula.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Ulysses, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Caffe Bar "dvojka", a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bolero provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Read more
Day5

Day 5

  • Pula - Departure day
  • More
  • Fortress Kaštel / Castello
  • More

Day 5 of your road trip in Croatia is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Pula before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Pula Citadel, a picture-perfect castle before you head out.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to Pula’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Epulon Food & Wine, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Dva Ferala offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Pula. 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!

Read more

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.

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in Croatia

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.