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

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Split for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Bacvice is a fantastic place you can explore today in Split. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Split-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Today’s itinerary in Split covers several incredible sights, including a park, a boardwalk, an observation deck, a palace, a lighthouse and much more! Start your adventure at Marjan. This interesting park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the visually striking wonders of West Bank, a must-see boardwalk in the city.

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 Split Viewpoint (belvedere). This locally appreciated observation deck offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Diocletian's Palace, where you can take in visually striking features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Split Breakwater Lighthouse. 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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Split. 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 a lovely dining experience at Babylon, 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 DeListes restaurant Split, 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 Bokeria Kitchen & Wine. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Split tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Caffe Bar Mythos, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Caffe Bar Legis offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Split. Caffe Bar Tik is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

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 Trogir and Šibenik. In the evening, you’ll end up in Šibenik, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Split is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Trogir Old Town, an underrated historical landmark that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Kamerlengo Castle, enchanting visitors with its enchanting appeal. Continue your exploration at Šibenik City Museum. This museum is one of the town’s most frequently visited spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Split at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Šibenik Cathedral. After exploring the church, head to the intriguing St. Nicholas Fortress.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Antin Gušt Restaurant, a top-rated dining spot in Šibenik. If you're in the mood for something new, try Fry Guy, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Atrium. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Šibenik.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Caffe Palma, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Mystic is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Azimut is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Zadar. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zadar, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Šibenik, including an art installation, an archeological site, a church, a museum, a public square and much more! Start your adventure at Sea Organ. This astonishing art installation is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Monument To The Sun located in Šibenik for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Roman Forum. Its picture-perfect features will captivate you. After the archeological site, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Church Of St. Donatus. Visitors usually appreciate the culturally significant features of this church. Next up is National Museum Zadar, a highly recommended museum. For a change of pace, head to Narodni Trg. As one of the most curiosity-inducing attractions in Šibenik, this public square is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.

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.

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

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Yachting Bar & Club offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Caffe Bar Porthos is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The Factory Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Caska and Lun. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Gajac. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Discover a day packed with natural wonders, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in Zadar. Begin your sightseeing with Zrce Festival Beach. This often recommended beach is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Olive Gardens Of Lun, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Zadar, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Vrtovi Lunjskih Maslina / Olive Gardens Of Lun / Ulaz 2 / Entrance 2 / Recepcija / Reception. This curiosity-inducing olive grove is a traveler-favorite.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Gajac, 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 Gajac, 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 meal at Taverna Giardin, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Pizzeria More is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Street Food - BBQ Party. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Gajac tonight.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Rijeka, 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 Rijeka. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Gajac. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Trsat Castle is the perfect place to start. This castle is one of the most interesting places to visit in Gajac. Next, head to Petar Kružić Stairway, a locally appreciated monument, known for its breathtaking 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 Rijeka Cathedral. This grand church is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Natural History Museum Rijeka. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Rijeka. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Antonio, a highly-rated dining destination in Rijeka. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant Capote y Ole. , another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Baćo. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Rijeka this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Charlie Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Wine Bar "kod Zajca", the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001 provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Pula. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Pula, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming city of Rijeka. Your adventure starts at Pula Arena, a widely recognized local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Church And Monastery Of St. Francis. This worthwhile church is known for its picture-perfect appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Rijeka's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Forum Square. This majestic public square offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Temple Of Augustus is also worth visiting, along with Historical And Maritime Museum Of Istria. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment. End your day at Pula Citadel. This worthwhile castle provides a fitting finale to your sightseeing.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Pula. Pula 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 Pula. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Pizzeria Samantha, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Fresh Sandwiches and Salads? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bistro Romantic Alley as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Pula.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Beach Bar Laplaya, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Shipyard Pub is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Zeppelin - Beach & Lounge Bar 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!

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Pula, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Rovinj Old Town is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in Rovinj. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

Today’s agenda in Pula includes an observation deck, a church, a museum, a park and much more! Panorama is must-visit observation deck and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Church Of St. Euphemia, an often recommended church, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Batana Eco-museum, a respected museum, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Pula. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the locally appreciated Golden Cape Forest Park. If you’re looking for more, Park Forest Zlatni Rt is also an often recommended attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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

As you explore more of Pula, 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Fine fast food Piantina, a top-rated dining destination in Pula. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Street Food Two, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran "Stari grad 02". With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Pula this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Ulysses after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Caffe Bar "dvojka" for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Bolero is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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