One-Week Croatia Road Trip from Rijeka traveling west to Pula

Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Summary

Duration
8 days & 7 nights
Available
Jan. - Dec.
Hotel
7 nights included
Car rental
8 days included
Flights
Optional
Travel app
All vouchers, itinerary, & map

Description

Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through Croatia that promises to leave you speechless. With this exciting adventure, you will have the chance to explore the diverse landscapes and local cultures of Rijeka, Vela Učka, Opatija, Porec, Rošini, Gedići, Bubani, Svetvinčenat, Korenići, Rovinj, Fažana, and Pula. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey where every moment becomes a lasting story.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Croatia takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 6 nights in Rijeka and 1 night 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, Vela Učka, Opatija, Porec, Rošini, Gedići, Bubani, Svetvinčenat, Korenići, Rovinj, Fažana, and Pula, 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!

Read more

Included

Hotel, 7 nights
Rental car, 8 days
CDW Insurance
Step-by-step guide
Personal travel agent
24/7 travel support

Destinations

Svetvinčenat
Photo of aerial view to the town of Porec in Istria, Croatia on Adriatic coast.Poreč
Aerial drone photo of famous european city of Pula and arena of roman time. Location Istria county, Croatia, Europe.Pula / 1 night
Opatija - city in CroatiaOpatija
Gedići
Korenići, Kanfanar
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 / 6 nights
Bubani
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
Euphrasian BasilicaEuphrasian Basilica
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
Dvigrad ruins, Općina Kanfanar, Istria County, CroatiaDvigrad ruins
Castle Morosini Grimani, Općina Svetvinčenat, Istria County, CroatiaCastle Morosini Grimani
Lim Bay, Općina Kanfanar, Istria County, CroatiaLim Bay
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
Islamic Center of Rijeka
Slatina, Grad Opatija, Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, CroatiaSlatina
Katedrala sv. Vid, Mjesni odbor Školjić-Stari grad, Grad Rijeka, Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, CroatiaRijeka Cathedral
PEEK&POKE Computer Museum, Mjesni odbor Školjić-Stari grad, Grad Rijeka, Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, CroatiaPEEK&POKE Computer Museum
Stube Petra Kružića, Mjesni odbor Centar-Sušak, Grad Rijeka, Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, CroatiaPetar Kružić Stairway
Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (Rijeka),Croatia.Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (Rijeka)
Croatian Museum of Tourism, Grad Opatija, Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, CroatiaCroatian Museum of Tourism
The Wall of Fame
Venetian House

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
  • Petar Kružić Stairway
  • More

Your road trip adventure in Croatia begins as soon as you reach Rijeka and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Rijeka for 5 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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 Petar Kružić Stairway or 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 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Rijeka by reserving a table at Nebo by Deni Srdoč. Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern and creative cuisine. Looking for something different? Seafood restaurant Feral offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Conca d'oro. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Rijeka.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Charlie Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Wine bar "kod Zajca" offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Rijeka. Phanas Pub Rijeka est.2001 is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Croatia!

Read more
Day 2

Day 2 – Rijeka

  • Rijeka
  • More

Drive 19 km, 1 hour 9 min

  • Trsat Castle
  • Church of Mary of God of Trsat
  • Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (Rijeka)
  • Islamic Center of Rijeka
  • More

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Rijeka for 4 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Trsat Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,592 reviews.

Continue your journey at Church of Mary of God of Trsat. This church is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,505 travelers from near and far.

Rijeka is also the home of Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (Rijeka). This art museum has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 349 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Islamic Center of Rijeka. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 969 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

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

Dine in style at Restoran Spagho, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Barbacoa boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Konoba Ribica. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Rijeka.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Teatro Lounge Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Book caffe Dnevni boravak offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Rijeka. Pub "Bačva" is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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.

Read more
Day 3

Day 3 – Rijeka

  • Rijeka
  • More

Drive 1 km, 18 min

  • City Clock Tower
  • Rijeka Cathedral
  • PEEK&POKE Computer Museum
  • Maritime and History Museum of the Croatian Coast
  • More

Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Rijeka has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights you have left in Rijeka by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

When you're ready to see some sights, City Clock Tower is a great place to start. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,349 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Rijeka Cathedral. This cathedral has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 796 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at PEEK&POKE Computer Museum. The museum has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 749 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Maritime and History Museum of the Croatian Coast. This museum is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 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.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Na Sušaku, a top-rated dining destination in Rijeka. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Konoba Ive, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Lovorka Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied 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.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Croatia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Read more
Day 4

Day 4 – Rijeka, Vela Učka, and Opatija

  • Rijeka
  • Vela Učka
  • Opatija
  • More

Drive 58 km, 1 hour 34 min

  • Park Prirode Učka
  • Slatina
  • Maiden with the Seagull
  • Croatian Museum of Tourism
  • The Wall of Fame
  • More

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Rijeka, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Rijeka, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Vela Učka. This drive usually takes around 34 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Take the opportunity to see Nature Park Učka. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,471 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Vela Učka, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Opatija. Your travel time is 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.

We also recommend a visit to Croatian Museum of Tourism. This museum has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 275 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is The Wall of Fame. This point of interest and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 79 local and international travelers.

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

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Bistro Mornar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, King’s Caffe food pub offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Konoba Tarsa is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Rijeka.

Continue your lively evening at Public pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Kancelarija Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, The Beertija Klub ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Croatia!

Read more
Day 5

Day 5 – Rijeka, Porec, Rošini, Gedići, and Bubani

  • Rijeka
  • Poreč
  • Rošini
  • Gedići
  • Bubani
  • More

Drive 228 km, 3 hours 17 min

  • Euphrasian Basilica
  • MOTODROM POREC
  • Baredine Cave
  • Lim Bay
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Rijeka, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Porec, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Rijeka to Porec may take around 1 hour 19 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Porec, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Kick off the day at Euphrasian Basilica, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,763 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Porec, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Rošini. This drive usually takes around 14 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to MOTODROM POREC. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,748 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Rošini, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Gedići. This drive usually takes around 10 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Baredine Cave. This show cave is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Gedići, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,737 visitors.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Rijeka.

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to book a table at Konoba Fiume, a popular restaurant in Rijeka. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Rijeka at Submarine Burger Rijeka, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Na Kantunu Tavern. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Rijeka tonight.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

Read more
Day 6

Day 6 – Rijeka, Svetvinčenat, Korenići, Rovinj, Fažana, and Pula

  • Pula
  • Svetvinčenat
  • Korenići, Kanfanar
  • Rovinj
  • Fažana
  • More

Drive 148 km, 2 hours 45 min

  • Castle Morosini Grimani
  • Dvigrad ruins
  • Church of Saint Euphemia
  • Park forest Zlatni Rt
  • Fazana CROATIA
  • More

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Svetvinčenat, Korenići, Rovinj, and Fažana, 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 Pula. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Rijeka and set your GPS to Svetvinčenat. 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 1 hour 6 min. Upon reaching Svetvinčenat, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make Morosini - Grimani Castle your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,882 reviews.

Set your GPS to Korenići and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 12 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Korenići beckons with new experiences!

Take the opportunity to see Dvigrad ruins. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,240 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Pula. Pula offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Pula's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Beach Bar LaPlaya after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Shipyard Pub, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Zeppelin - Beach & lounge bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Read more
Day 7

Day 7 – Pula and Rijeka

  • Rijeka
  • Pula
  • More

Drive 119 km, 1 hour 59 min

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Pula. 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.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Pula Citadel. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,576 reviews.

Pula Arena is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This roman amphitheatre is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 58,989 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Forum Square. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,776 reviews.

Temple of Augustus is another outstanding experience in Pula. Around 10,021 travelers have rated this archaeological site an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Aquarium Pula is not far away. This aquarium is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,849 reviews.

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

Dine in style at Boonker, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Maslina boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

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.

Read more
Day 8

Day 8 – Rijeka - departure day

  • Rijeka - Departure day
  • More
  • Venetian House
  • More

Day 8 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.

Make the most of your final day in Croatia by visiting Rijeka’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Croatia. Take home a piece of Croatia with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Venetian House. This extraordinary sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 25 visitors.

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

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional 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!

Read more

Similar travel packages

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.