5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rijeka traveling east to Opatija and Zadar
Description
Included
Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through Croatia. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Croatia takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Rijeka, 1 night in Opatija, 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 got 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. Diocletian's Palace and Sea Organ are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Trsat Castle, learn more about the unique Church Of St. Donatus, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Narodni Trg.
As you hit the open road and drive through Rijeka, Opatija, Plitvica Selo, 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, accommodation, 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!
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Rijeka - Arrival day
- More
- Korzo
- More
Say hello to Rijeka! Your exciting road trip through Croatia is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Rijeka for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
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 Korzo, a must-see street, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Rijeka. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime 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 Rijeka, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at Antonio, 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 Restaurant Capote y Ole. , 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 Baćo, a hidden gem nestled in Rijeka. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Continue your lively evening at Charlie Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Wine Bar "kod Zajca" is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001 ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Croatia!
Day 2
- Rijeka
- Opatija
- More
Drive 27 km, 1 hour 16 min
- Maritime and History Museum of the Croatian Coast
- Natural History Museum Rijeka
- Church of Mary of God of Trsat
- Trsat Castle
- Maiden with the Seagull
- Slatina
- More
Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Rijeka and Opatija, 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 Opatija. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Begin your adventure at Maritime And History Museum Of The Croatian Coast. This is a curiosity-inducing museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Natural History Museum Rijeka, an increasingly popular museum in Rijeka.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Trsat Castle, another of the city’s well-known attractions. If time allows, add Slatina to your itinerary. This beloved beach offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Rijeka.
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 an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Bistro Yacht club, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Boćarija Grill offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Ružmarin. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Opatija.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Mare Cocktail Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Choco Bar - Bonbonnière Kraš provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Colosseum Lounge & Beach Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Croatia.
Day 3
- Opatija
- Zadar
- More
Drive 335 km, 4 hours 59 min
- Great Waterfall
- Sea organ
- The Greeting to the Sun
- 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, Plitvica Selo and Zadar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zadar, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Opatija is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Great Waterfall, an underrated waterfall that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find Sea Organ, enchanting visitors with its enchanting appeal. Continue your exploration at Monument To The Sun. This art installation is one of the village’s most locally appreciated spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Opatija at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Roman Forum. After exploring the archeological site, head to the underrated Church Of St. Donatus. This church will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the village.
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.
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 and reflect on the day's adventures.
Dine in style at Pizzeria Šime, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Harvatski restorant "Galiya" boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restoran Zadar - Jadera. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice 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.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Croatia!
Day 4
- Zadar
- Rijeka
- More
Drive 572 km, 6 hours 15 min
- Diocletian's Palace
- Golden Gate
- Kamerlengo Castle
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Split and Trogir. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Rijeka, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Zadar, including a palace, a historical landmark, and a castle. Start your adventure at Diocletian's Palace. This top-rated palace is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Golden Gate located in Zadar for an enchanting atmosphere.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Kamerlengo Castle. Its history-steeped features will captivate you.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Rijeka's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Trattoria Krug, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Zelena Dolina is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Buffet "Cocco". As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Rijeka tonight.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Teatro Lounge Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Book Caffe Dnevni Boravak, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Pub "bačva" likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 5
- Rijeka - Departure day
- More
- Petar Kružić Stairway
- More
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.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Petar Kružić Stairway. This worthwhile monument is a popular place to see in the city.
On your last day in Croatia, take time to indulge in shopping at Rijeka’s popular marketplace, Tower Center 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.
Savor the flavors at Restoran Morčić, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bowling Center Rijeka 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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Croatia
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.
