Travel packages in Croatia

Road trips in Croatia

5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rijeka to Zadar

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Photo of beautiful view of Rijeka harbor in Croatia.

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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 3 nights in Rijeka 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 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. Plitvice Lakes National Park and Diocletian's Palace are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Rijeka, Rovinj, Pula, Korenica, Zadar, Split, and Trogir, 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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Day1

Day 1

Rijeka - Arrival day
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Trsat Castle
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Welcome to Rijeka, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Croatia! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights discovering what to see in Rijeka before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Rijeka. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas in the city.

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.

Savor the flavors at Antonio, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Capote y Ole. Beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Baćo. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Rijeka tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Charlie Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Wine Bar "kod Zajca" offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001 provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Day2

Day 2

Rijeka
Rovinj
Pula
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Drive 235 km, 4 hours 9 min

Church of Saint Euphemia
Temple of Augustus
Fortress Kaštel / Castello
Roman Theater
Pula Arena
Rovinj Old Town
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On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Rijeka, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Rovinj is brimming with adventures. Rovinj Old Town is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in Rovinj. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

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 45 min.

Savor the day by heading to Church Of St. Euphemia, an increasingly popular church that draws visitors from near and far.

After soaking in Rovinj’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 45 min. When you arrive in Pula, it's time to take a break from the road.

Temple Of Augustus is a captivating monument we recommend visiting today. Discover its standout features before continuing your self-guided tour to Pula Citadel, a historic castle that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Roman Theater, a historic archeological site. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Pula Arena, a picture-perfect and truly unique archeological site.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Trattoria Krug, a top-rated dining destination in Rijeka. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Zelena Dolina, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Buffet "Cocco". With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Rijeka this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Teatro Lounge Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Book Caffe Dnevni Boravak, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Pub "bačva" also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

Day3

Day 3

Rijeka
Korenica
Zadar
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Drive 342 km, 4 hours 48 min

Plitvice Lakes National Park
Sea organ
The Greeting to the Sun
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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 Korenica and Zadar. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zadar, where will spend 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Korenica may take around 2 hours 25 min. Upon your arrival in Korenica, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Plitvice Lakes National Park. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the national park before you continue to your next stop.

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 Korenica to Zadar may take around 2 hours 14 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Zadar, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Sea Organ and explore the visually striking features. Next, make your way to Monument To The Sun, another highlight in Zadar.

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 wonderful meal at Pizzeria Šime, a top-rated dining spot in Zadar. If you're in the mood for something new, try Harvatski restorant "Galiya", another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zadar.

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

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

Day4

Day 4

Zadar
Split
Trogir
Rijeka
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Drive 572 km, 6 hours 15 min

Diocletian's Palace
Golden Gate
Kamerlengo Castle
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On day 4 of your road trip in Croatia, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Split and Trogir are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rijeka, where you will stay for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Split, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Zadar to Split may take around 1 hour 43 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Split, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Diocletian's Palace and explore the history-steeped features. Next, make your way to Golden Gate, another highlight in Split.

Trogir’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Split behind. This drive usually takes around 39 min. Trogir welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Kamerlengo Castle, an increasingly popular castle known for its history-steeped features.

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.

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.

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Pet Jedan Tapas Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, "metropolis" Caffe Bar & Night Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Caffe Bar Kosi Toranj also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Croatia.

Day5

Day 5

Rijeka - Departure day
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Korzo
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Day 5 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.

One of the best things to do on your last day is to explore Korzo, a street that you shouldn't miss while in Rijeka. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

For a last-minute shopping spree in Rijeka, City Center one Rijeka is nearby. Enjoy a variety of retail stores, dining options, and essential services in one convenient location.

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

Savor the flavors at ŠtoRija, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Conca d'oro beckons with its unique menu offerings.

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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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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