9-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rijeka traveling south to Opatija, Rovinj, Plitvička Jezera, and Zadar

Day 2 of your road trip across Croatia promises a magnificent time exploring Rijeka. You have 1 night left in Rijeka. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Set aside time today to explore Korzo, a standout street that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.

Start your adventure at Maritime And History Museum Of The Croatian Coast. This beloved museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Rijeka Cathedral. This intriguing church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat, where you can take in enchanting features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Trsat Castle. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

Experience shopping bliss at Rijeka as you explore City Center one Rijeka. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, City Center one Rijeka offers more options, including unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Trattoria Krug, a top-rated dining destination in Rijeka. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Zelena Dolina, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Buffet "Cocco". With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Rijeka this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Teatro Lounge Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Book Caffe Dnevni Boravak, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Pub "bačva" provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore 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.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Next, go to Opatija.

Croatian Museum Of Tourism is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. If you still have some time left for sightseeing, we also recommend stopping by Slatina.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Opatija. Opatija offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Savor the flavors at Bistro Yacht club, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Boćarija Grill beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Ružmarin. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Opatija tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Mare Cocktail Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Choco Bar - Bonbonnière Kraš offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Colosseum Lounge & Beach Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Rovinj. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Rovinj, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Opatija is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a museum, an observation deck, a church and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the often recommended Golden Cape Forest Park and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Park Forest Zlatni Rt, a romantic park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Batana Eco-museum, one of the town’s most beloved spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally appreciated Panorama. When you're finished at the observation deck, Church Of St. Euphemia awaits your visit. This church is a history-steeped highlight on today's itinerary.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Kantinon Tavern, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Scuba restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, La Vigna is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Rovinj.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Mediterraneo Cocktail Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Blue Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Havana Rovinj Cocktail Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Greet day 5 of your road trip in Croatia with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Rovinj for your remaining 1 night in the town later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Brkač, Motovun, Grožnjan, and Kuberton.

Today's adventure in Rovinj promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Fakin. Then, enjoy Town Gate, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Church Of St. Stephen, one of the village’s most increasingly popular attractions, known for its stunning features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Laparenzana. This mesmerizing hiking area is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Town Loggia, an intriguing monument, and take a stroll around the area. If you want to extend your self-guided sightseeing tour, go check out Waterfall Butori before you head back to your hotel.

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

As you explore more of Rovinj, 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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Da Piero, a popular restaurant in Rovinj. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Rovinj at La Perla, 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 Balbi Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Rovinj tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Block Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Caffe Bar “sax” offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Caffe Bar "bruno", another top-rated bar in the area.

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

On day 7 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 Zadar. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zadar, where you will stay for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Plitvička Jezera’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Sea Organ. This enchanting art installation is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the stunning features of Monument To The Sun, a must-visit art installation 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 Roman Forum, a curiosity-inducing archeological site. For a change of scene, check out Church Of St. Donatus, known for its inviting features. We also recommend visiting National Museum Zadar. This museum is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest. Lastly, end your day with a visit to Narodni Trg, yet another underrated attraction in Plitvička Jezera.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Zadar. Zadar offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you explore more of Zadar, 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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Pizzeria Šime, a popular restaurant in Zadar. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zadar at Harvatski restorant "Galiya", 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 Restoran Zadar - Jadera. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zadar tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Yachting Bar & Club, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Caffe Bar Porthos is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Factory Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Pula. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Rijeka. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming city of Zadar. Your adventure starts at Pula Arena, a spectacular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Pula Citadel. This intriguing castle is known for its stunning appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Zadar's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Forum Square. This enchanting public square offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Temple Of Augustus is also worth visiting.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Rijeka. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restoran Morčić, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bowling Center Rijeka? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Seafood restaurant Feral as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Rijeka.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Pet Jedan Tapas Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out "metropolis" Caffe Bar & Night Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Caffe Bar Kosi Toranj provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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