9-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rijeka to Pula, Zadar, and Split

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Pula. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Pula, where will spend 2 nights.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Pula may take around 1 hour 33 min. Upon your arrival in Pula, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in Pula is Aquarium Pula, a locally renowned aquarium that draws attention for its visually striking features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Temple Of Augustus, a heritage-rich monument that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Forum Square, a locally appreciated public square that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Historical And Maritime Museum Of Istria, a nearby museum, highly recommended by other travelers. End your self-guided tour at Pula Citadel, a culturally significant castle and the perfect final attraction in Pula.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Pula, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Pula is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Pula.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Pizzeria Samantha, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Fresh Sandwiches and Salads offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bistro Romantic Alley is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Pula.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Beach Bar Laplaya, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Shipyard Pub provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Zeppelin - Beach & Lounge Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

Greet day 3 of your road trip in Croatia with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Pula, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Rovinj and Pula.

Rovinj Old Town is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Rovinj, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the town.

Pula Arena is must-visit archeological site and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Verudela Canyon, a worthwhile canyon, located just a leisurely stroll away.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Pula. This drive usually takes around 44 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Church Of St. Euphemia, a beloved church that everyone visiting Rovinj should see. Next, head to Golden Cape Forest Park. This mesmerizing park is one of the most up-and-coming attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Park Forest Zlatni Rt, a serene park popular among locals as well as travelers.

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

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.

Dine in style at Fine fast food Piantina, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Street Food Two boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restoran "Stari grad 02". Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Pula.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Ulysses after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Caffe Bar "dvojka", another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bolero 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!

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in Croatia includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Zadar. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zadar, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Pula and set your GPS to Zadar. 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 4 hours 9 min. Upon reaching Zadar, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Kolovare Beach, a beloved beach that everyone visiting Zadar should see. Next, head to Queen Jelena Madijevka Park. This eye-catching park is one of the most increasingly popular attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on The Five Wells Square, a majestic public square popular among locals as well as travelers. Sea Organ is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this astonishing art installation before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Monument To The Sun, an awe-inspiring art installation and a top attraction in the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Zadar. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Pizzeria Šime, a top-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Harvatski restorant "Galiya", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

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

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Croatia!

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Zadar, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Catch Roman Forum before the crowds roll in. This historic archeological site is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the stunning features of Zadar Cathedral, a must-visit church in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Church Of St. Donatus, an up-and-coming church. For a change of scene, check out National Museum Zadar, known for its historic features. We also recommend visiting Market Zadar. This market is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Nin. This car ride takes around 24 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Solana Nin Salt Museum and explore the breathtaking features.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Pet Bunara Dine & Wine? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurant 2Ribara as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Zadar.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Pirate Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Bizarre offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Backstage Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Croatia!

On day 6 of your road trip in Croatia, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Šibenik and Split are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Split, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Šibenik, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Zadar to Šibenik may take around 1 hour 2 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Šibenik, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Šibenik Cathedral, an often recommended church in Šibenik. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Šibenik City Museum. This underrated museum is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, St. Nicholas’ Fortress is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most history-steeped castle in the region.

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 Šibenik to Split may take around 1 hour 5 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Split, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Golden Gate, a curiosity-inducing historical landmark in Split. Explore its UNESCO world heritage-listed features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Diocletian's Palace. This spectacular palace is a top recommendation in the area.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Split. Split 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 Split's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Nevera Tavern, a popular restaurant in Split. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Split at Perivoj restoran i kavana, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Konoba Laganini. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Split tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, La Linea offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Fabrique Pub, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Split has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Split.

Start your day at Marjan. This serene park is a popular place to see in Split. Then, wander over to West Bank. If visually striking sites excite you, this boardwalk will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Split Viewpoint (belvedere). This romantic observation deck is a favorite among visitors.

Split offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Mestrovic Gallery is a frequently visited spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the art gallery, don’t forget to check out the noteworthy Meštrovićeve Crikvine - Kaštilac. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this curiosity-inducing museum. Wrap up your self-guided tour of Split's top attractions with a visit to Kašjuni Beach.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Croatia. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Babylon, a top-rated dining destination in Split. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider DeListes restaurant Split, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bokeria Kitchen & Wine. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Split this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Caffe Bar Mythos stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Legis offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Caffe Bar Tik is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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