5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rijeka traveling east to Opatija and Zadar
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Croatia as you embark on an unforgettable 5-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Rijeka, Opatija, Plitvica Selo, Zadar, Split, and Trogir.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Croatia takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Rijeka, 1 night in Opatija, and 1 night in Zadar. 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. Diocletian's Palace and Sea Organ are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Trsat Castle, learn more about the unique Church Of St. Donatus, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Narodni Trg.
As you hit the open road and drive through Rijeka, Opatija, Plitvica Selo, Zadar, Split, and Trogir, 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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Day 1
- Rijeka - Arrival day
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- Korzo
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Your road trip adventure in Croatia begins as soon as you reach Rijeka and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Rijeka for 1 night 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 Korzo, a must-see street, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Rijeka. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Rijeka, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Antonio, a popular restaurant in Rijeka. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Rijeka at Restaurant Capote y Ole. , 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 Baćo. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Rijeka tonight.
Continue your lively evening at Charlie Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Wine Bar "kod Zajca" is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001 ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Croatia!
Day 2
- Rijeka
- Opatija
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Drive 27 km, 1 hour 16 min
- Maritime and History Museum of the Croatian Coast
- Natural History Museum Rijeka
- Church of Mary of God of Trsat
- Trsat Castle
- Maiden with the Seagull
- Slatina
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Rijeka and Opatija. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Opatija, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Natural History Museum Rijeka, a heritage-rich museum that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat, one of the city’s most intriguing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the notable Trsat Castle. When you're finished at the castle, Maiden With The Seagull awaits your visit. Last up is a beach - the intriguing 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.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Opatija. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Bistro Yacht club, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Boćarija Grill is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Ružmarin. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Opatija tonight.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Mare Cocktail Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Choco Bar - Bonbonnière Kraš, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Colosseum Lounge & Beach Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!
Day 3
- Opatija
- Zadar
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Drive 335 km, 4 hours 59 min
- Great Waterfall
- Sea organ
- The Greeting to the Sun
- Roman Forum
- Church of St. Donatus
- People's Square
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Plitvica Selo and Zadar. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zadar. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Great Waterfall. This curiosity-inducing waterfall is a serene place to see in Opatija. Continue your discovery at Sea Organ, a visually striking art installation with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Opatija, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Monument To The Sun. This increasingly popular art installation offers a noteworthy encounter with Opatija. Next, make your way to Roman Forum to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Church Of St. Donatus, a beloved church that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Narodni Trg, a curiosity-inducing public square in the village. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Opatija.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Zadar, 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 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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Pizzeria Šime, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Harvatski restorant "Galiya"? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restoran Zadar - Jadera as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Zadar.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Yachting Bar & Club, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Caffe Bar Porthos offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Zadar. The Factory Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!
Day 4
- Zadar
- Rijeka
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Drive 572 km, 6 hours 15 min
- Diocletian's Palace
- Golden Gate
- Kamerlengo Castle
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On day 4 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 Split and Trogir. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rijeka, where you will stay for 1 night.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at the impressive Diocletian's Palace, an UNESCO world heritage-listed palace in Zadar. Next, go to Golden Gate.
After visiting Diocletian's Palace and Golden Gate, have a stroll along Zadar's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Kamerlengo Castle. This history-steeped castle offers a unique experience.
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.
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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Trattoria Krug, a popular restaurant in Rijeka. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Rijeka at Zelena Dolina, 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 Buffet "Cocco". It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Rijeka tonight.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Teatro Lounge Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Book Caffe Dnevni Boravak offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Pub "bačva" is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Croatia!
Day 5
- Rijeka - Departure day
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- Petar Kružić Stairway
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Day 5 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.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Petar Kružić Stairway. This beloved monument is a popular place to see in the city.
As your final day in Croatia unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Rijeka's best shopping area, Korzo. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Croatia. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home. When you need a break, visit a cafe and relax with a cup of coffee or tea.
Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Rijeka.
If you're in the mood for something new, try Bowling Center Rijeka, another premier location with a delectable 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!
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