6-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rijeka traveling south to Lovinac, Šibenik, and Lika-Senj County
Description
Included
Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Croatia as you embark on an unforgettable 6-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Rijeka, Lovinac, Split, Šibenik, Zadar, Lika-Senj County, Smiljan, Jablanac, and Senj.
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 Lovinac, 1 night in Šibenik, and 1 night in Lika-Senj County. 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 Marjan, learn more about the unique Trsat Castle, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Church Of St. Donatus.
As you hit the open road and drive through Rijeka, Lovinac, Split, Šibenik, Zadar, Lika-Senj County, Smiljan, Jablanac, and Senj, 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!
Travel details
Set your travel details to find the best price
Flights
Compare and choose from the best flights to Rijeka
Car
Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options
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
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 1 night immersing yourself in Rijeka's charm 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 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.
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 hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars 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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Antonio, a top-rated dining destination in Rijeka. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Capote y Ole. , another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Baćo. 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 Charlie Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Wine Bar "kod Zajca", another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001 also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Croatia!
Day 2
- Rijeka
- Lovinac
- More
Drive 255 km, 3 hours 18 min
- Maritime and History Museum of the Croatian Coast
- Church of Mary of God of Trsat
- Trsat Castle
- Islamic Center of Rijeka
- More
On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Rijeka. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lovinac, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Rijeka, including a museum, a church, a castle, a mosque and much more! Start your day at Maritime And History Museum Of The Croatian Coast. This visually striking museum is an often recommended place to see in Rijeka. Then, wander over to Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat. If romantic sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Trsat Castle. This visually striking castle is a favorite among visitors.
Rijeka offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Islamic Center Of Rijeka is a curiosity-inducing spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Lovinac, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you explore more of Lovinac, 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.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Croatia.
Day 3
- Lovinac
- Šibenik
- More
Drive 298 km, 3 hours 47 min
- Forest Park Marjan
- Kašjuni Beach
- Golden Gate
- Diocletian's Palace
- More
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 1 vibrant destinations - Split. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Šibenik. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Lovinac. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Marjan is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most locally renowned places to visit in Lovinac. Next, head to Kašjuni Beach, an increasingly popular beach, known for its eye-catching features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Golden Gate. This symbolic historical landmark is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Diocletian's Palace. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Šibenik. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Šibenik's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Šibenik by reserving a table at Pelegrini. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Fry Guy, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Caffe Palma stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Mystic offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Azimut is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Head back to your accommodation in Šibenik and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 4
- Šibenik
- Lika-Senj
- More
Drive 201 km, 2 hours 33 min
- Market Zadar
- People's Square
- Church of St. Donatus
- Roman Forum
- Sea organ
- More
Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Zadar, 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 Lika-Senj County. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today’s agenda in Šibenik includes a market, a public square, a church, an archeological site, an art installation and much more! Market Zadar is must-visit market and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Narodni Trg, an underrated public square, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Church Of St. Donatus, a culturally significant church, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Šibenik. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the curiosity-inducing Roman Forum. If you’re looking for more, Sea Organ is also an impressive attraction that is worthwhile a visit.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Lika-Senj County. Lika-Senj County 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 Lika-Senj County. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Dine in style at The Highlanders pub, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Kavana Milinković boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Lika-Senj County.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Caffe Bar Fortuna, known for its lively atmosphere. Caffe Bar Amadeus is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Caffe Bar Bevanda offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Croatia!
Day 5
- Lika-Senj
- Rijeka
- More
Drive 175 km, 3 hours 3 min
- Nikola Tesla Memorial Center
- Uvala Zavratnica
- Nehaj Fortress
- Plaža Prva Draga
- Sundial on the 45th parallel
- More
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 Smiljan, Jablanac, and Senj. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rijeka, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. The first attraction of today is Nikola Tesla Memorial Center. This worthwhile museum is an instagrammable place to see in Lika-Senj County. Continue your discovery at Zavratnica Cove, a romantic canyon with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Lika-Senj County, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Nehaj Fortress. This frequently visited castle offers a picture-perfect encounter with Lika-Senj County. Next, make your way to Plaža Prva Draga to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Sundial On The 45th Parallel, an up-and-coming monument that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Lika-Senj County.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Rijeka, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Rijeka. 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.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Nebo by Deni Srdoč, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern and creative menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Rijeka at Zelena Dolina, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.
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.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Croatia.
Day 6
- Rijeka - Departure day
- More
- Venetian House
- More
Day 6 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, we recommend visiting Venetian House, a visually striking historical landmark before you head out.
Make the most of your final day in Croatia by visiting Rijeka’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Tower Center Rijeka. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Croatia.
Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Rijeka.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Bowling Center Rijeka, another top spot with a tantalizing 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!
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.
