6-Day Croatia Road Trip from Rijeka traveling west to Pula

Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Summary

Duration
6 days & 5 nights
Available
Jan. - Dec.
Hotel
5 nights included
Car rental
6 days included
Flights
Optional
Travel app
All vouchers, itinerary, & map

Description

Explore the best of Croatia on a 6-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Rijeka, Gedići, Rošini, Rovinj, Fažana, Pula, Opatija, Krk, Kostrena, and Vela Učka. This road trip itinerary in Croatia seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Croatia takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Rijeka and 2 nights in Pula. 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. 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, Gedići, Rošini, Rovinj, Fažana, Pula, Opatija, Krk, Kostrena, and Vela Učka, 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!

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Included

Hotel, 5 nights
Rental car, 6 days
CDW Insurance
Step-by-step guide
Personal travel agent
24/7 travel support

Destinations

Aerial drone photo of famous european city of Pula and arena of roman time. Location Istria county, Croatia, Europe.Pula / 2 nights
Kostrena
Opatija - city in CroatiaOpatija
Gedići
Photo of aerial view of Historic Adriatic town of Krk aerial view, Island of Krk, Kvarner bay of Croatia.Krk
Photo of aerial view of town of Rovinj historic peninsula , famous tourist destination in Istria region of Croatia.Rovinj
Vela Učka
Photo of aerial view of the town of Fazana, Croatia.Fažana
Grad Rijeka - city in CroatiaRijeka / 3 nights
Rošini

Map

Attractions

Photo of summer scenic view of ancient ruins Roman Amphitheatre in Pula, Istria croatian region.Pula Arena
Photo of aerial view of Trsat fortress in Rijeka, Croatia.Trsat Castle
Photo of the ancient Temple of Augustus, Pula, Croatia.Temple of Augustus
Photo of Aquarium Pula, Grad Pula, Istria County, Croatia.Aquarium Pula
Crkva sv. Eufemija, Grad Rovinj, Istria County, CroatiaChurch of Saint Euphemia
Photo of Stalagmites and stalactites inside the cave of Baradine near the city of Porec in Croatia.Baredine Cave
Park forest Zlatni Rt, Grad Rovinj, Istria County, CroatiaPark forest Zlatni Rt
Forum Square, Grad Pula, Istria County, CroatiaForum Square
Fazana CROATIA, Općina Fažana, Istria County, CroatiaFazana CROATIA
Park Prirode Učka, Grad Opatija, Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, CroatiaPark Prirode Učka
Fortress Kaštel, Grad Pula, Istria County, CroatiaFortress Kaštel / Castello
Frankopan Castle, Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, CroatiaFrankopan Castle
Maiden with the Seagull, Grad Opatija, Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, CroatiaMaiden with the Seagull
MOTODROM POREC, Općina Tar-Vabriga, Istria County, CroatiaMOTODROM POREC
Crkva Majke Božje Trsatske, Mjesni odbor Grad Trsat, Grad Rijeka, Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, CroatiaChurch of Mary of God of Trsat
City Clock Tower, Mjesni odbor Luka, Grad Rijeka, Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, CroatiaCity Clock Tower
Maritime and History Museum of the Croatian Coast, Rijeka, Mjesni odbor Brajda-Dolac, Grad Rijeka, Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, CroatiaMaritime and History Museum of the Croatian Coast
Svežanj Bay, Općina Kostrena, Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, CroatiaSvežanj Bay
Slatina, Grad Opatija, Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, CroatiaSlatina
Prirodoslovni muzej RijekaNatural History Museum Rijeka
Stube Petra Kružića, Mjesni odbor Centar-Sušak, Grad Rijeka, Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, CroatiaPetar Kružić Stairway

Flights
Yes
No

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy

Travel details

Flights

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy
Travel dates

Include flights?

Yes
No

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Car
Yes
No

Car

Small car

Small car

Category
small car
Transmission
People
Large bags
Medium car

Medium car

Category
Medium
Transmission
People
Large bags
Premium car

Premium car

Category
premium car
Transmission
People
Large bags

Hotels

Personalize your itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 – Rijeka - arrival day

  • Rijeka - Arrival day
  • More
  • City Clock Tower
  • 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 2 nights 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 City Clock Tower or taking a stroll in the city center. 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 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.

Celebrated as a restaurant, it boasts an exceptional menu. This establishment consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Nestled in the city's heart, is a perfect choice for discerning cuisine enthusiasts seeking a new experience. Enjoy a sumptuous meal at Restaurant Capote y Ole. , a highly-rated dining destination in Rijeka. If you're eager to try something different, consider Seafood restaurant Feral, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Conca d'oro. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Rijeka this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Charlie Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Wine bar "kod Zajca" is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Phanas Pub Rijeka est.2001 also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Croatia!

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Day 2

Day 2 – Rijeka

  • Rijeka
  • More

Drive 4 km, 1 hour 2 min

  • Trsat Castle
  • Church of Mary of God of Trsat
  • Natural History Museum Rijeka
  • Maritime and History Museum of the Croatian Coast
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Rijeka has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Rijeka by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Journey into the unknown at Trsat Castle, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable castle has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,592 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Church of Mary of God of Trsat is a recommended place to visit. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 2,505 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Rijeka is Natural History Museum Rijeka. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 797 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Rijeka offers an experience you will remember.

Maritime and History Museum of the Croatian Coast is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Rijeka. This museum promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,049 reviews.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. Croatia is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Make sure to reserve a table at Restoran Spagho, 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 Barbacoa, 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 Konoba Ribica, a hidden gem nestled in Rijeka. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Teatro Lounge Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Book caffe Dnevni boravak for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Pub "Bačva" is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!

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Day 3

Day 3 – Rijeka, Gedići, Rošini, Rovinj, Fažana, and Pula

  • Pula
  • Gedići
  • Rošini
  • Rovinj
  • Fažana
  • More

Drive 199 km, 3 hours 15 min

  • MOTODROM POREC
  • Baredine Cave
  • Church of Saint Euphemia
  • Park forest Zlatni Rt
  • Fazana CROATIA
  • More

On day 3 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 Gedići, Rošini, Rovinj, and Fažana. In the evening, you’ll end up in Pula, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Rošini and set your GPS to Gedići. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 10 min. Upon reaching Gedići, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make Baredine Cave your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this show cave an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,737 reviews.

After soaking in Rijeka’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Rošini. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 21 min. When you arrive in Rošini, it's time to take a break from the road.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like MOTODROM POREC. This extraordinary point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,748 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Pula, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Pula.

Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of cuisine. This distinguished -recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With an acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Pizzeria Samantha, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restoran "Stari grad 02" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Epulon Food & Wine. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Pula.

Continue your lively evening at Beach Bar LaPlaya, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Shipyard Pub is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Zeppelin - Beach & lounge bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Head back to your accommodation in Pula and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia!

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Day 4

Day 4 – Pula

  • Pula
  • More

Drive 12 km, 54 min

  • Aquarium Pula
  • Temple of Augustus
  • Forum Square
  • Fortress Kaštel / Castello
  • Pula Arena
  • More

Day 4 of your road trip across Croatia promises a magnificent time exploring Pula. You have 1 night left in Pula. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Aquarium Pula. This extraordinary aquarium is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,849 visitors.

Next, make your way to Temple of Augustus. This top attraction is an archaeological site with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,021 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Forum Square. This point of interest is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,776 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Pula Citadel. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,576 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Pula Arena. This roman amphitheatre is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 58,989 travelers.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Pula, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Pula below.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Pula. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Renowned as a restaurant, it offers an exceptional menu. This restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Nestled in the heart of the city, is an ideal choice for discerning foodies seeking culinary excellence. Enjoy a delicious meal at Pizzeria Peperoncino, a top-rated dining destination in Pula. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Grill bar Campo, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant da Piero II. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Pula this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Ulysses offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Caffe bar "Dvojka" is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bolero is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

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Day 5

Day 5 – Pula, Opatija, Krk, Kostrena, Vela Učka, and Rijeka

  • Rijeka
  • Opatija
  • Krk
  • Kostrena
  • Vela Učka
  • More

Drive 219 km, 3 hours 31 min

  • Park Prirode Učka
  • Slatina
  • Maiden with the Seagull
  • Frankopan Castle
  • Svežanj Bay
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Opatija, Krk, Kostrena, and Vela Učka. 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.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Opatija. This car ride takes around 27 min.

Drop by the renowned Slatina. This popular sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 865 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Maiden with the Seagull. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,003 visitors, this sculpture deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Krk. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 2 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Take the opportunity to see Frankopan Castle. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,278 visitors.

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 you explore more of Rijeka, 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.

Celebrated as a restaurant, it boasts an exceptional menu. This establishment consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Nestled in the city's heart, is a perfect choice for discerning cuisine enthusiasts seeking a new experience. Enjoy a sumptuous meal at Na Sušaku, a highly-rated dining destination in Rijeka. If you're eager to try something different, consider Konoba Ive, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Lovorka Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Rijeka this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Pet Jedan Tapas Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of "Metropolis" Caffe Bar & Night Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Caffe Bar Kosi Toranj likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

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Day 6

Day 6 – Rijeka - departure day

  • Rijeka - Departure day
  • More
  • Petar Kružić Stairway
  • 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.

On your last day in Croatia, take time to indulge in shopping at Rijeka’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Croatia. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Croatia forever.

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

This -awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. This awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

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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