12-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar to Rijeka, Pula, Zagreb, Šibenik, Split, Dubrovnik, and Metković and surrounding area

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Zadar. You’ll stay in Zadar for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Immerse yourself in Zadar’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Queen Jelena Madijevka Park. This idyllic park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the enchanting 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 Sea Organ, a top-rated art installation. For a change of scene, check out Roman Forum, known for its culturally significant features. We also recommend visiting Church Of St. Donatus. This church is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

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.

Bring home unique finds from Zadar's bustling shopping hub, City Galleria. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique boutiques and stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, City Galleria offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Zadar. 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top-rated dining spot in Zadar. If you're in the mood for something new, try Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant 2Ribara. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zadar.

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

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Smiljan and Senj. 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.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Zadar, featuring family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at Nikola Tesla Memorial Center, an often recommended museum in the village. Then, head to Nehaj Fortress and soak in the ambiance of this culturally significant castle.

There are many interesting places to see in Zadar, and when you are ready for more, go to Plaža Prva Draga. This is one of the village’s most often recommended mesmerizing spots of interest.

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.

Discover the culinary delights of Rijeka by securing a reservation at Nebo by Deni Srdoč. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern and creative cuisine. Alternatively, Restaurant Capote y Ole. Beckons with its unique menu offerings.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Charlie Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Wine Bar "kod Zajca" offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001, another top-rated bar in the area.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Croatia.

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Rošini, Gedići, 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 2 nights.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Rijeka allows for both. Start by heading to Motodrom Porec. This increasingly popular motor speedway provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Baredine Cave, an enchanting cave, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Church Of St. Euphemia, a worthwhile church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the often recommended Park Forest Zlatni Rt. Round off your day at Fasana, another gem in Rijeka with mesmerizing features to discover.

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.

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? Fresh Sandwiches and Salads offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bistro Romantic Alley. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Pula.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Beach Bar Laplaya, known for its lively atmosphere. The Shipyard Pub is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Zeppelin - Beach & Lounge Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Pula for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Pula allows for both. Start by heading to Aquarium Pula. This locally renowned aquarium provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Forum Square, a romantic public square, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Temple Of Augustus, a captivating monument. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the curiosity-inducing Pula Citadel. Round off your day at Pula Arena, another gem in Pula with stunning features to discover.

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 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Fine fast food Piantina, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Street Food Two offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restoran "Stari grad 02" is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Pula.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Ulysses, known for its inviting atmosphere. Caffe Bar "dvojka" is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Bolero provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Zagreb. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zagreb. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start by visiting Zagreb Zoo, a prime spot to begin your journey. This picture-perfect zoo is sure to impress. Next on your list is Park Maksimir, another must-visit landmark and locally renowned park renowned for its mesmerizing features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Pula by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Zagreb Cathedral. This stunning church is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Pula experience. We also recommend visiting Ban Josip Jelačić Statue, a captivating monument.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Zinfandel's Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Zagreb. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Rougemarin City. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zagreb this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Tesla New Generation, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Caffe Bar Destino is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Booze And Blues ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Zagreb. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Šibenik, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Zagreb, including a performing arts theater, a botanical garden, a museum, a park and much more! Start your adventure at Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb. This intriguing performing arts theater is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb located in Zagreb for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Technical Museum. Its heritage-rich features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Bundek. Visitors usually appreciate the serene features of this park.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Šibenik. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Šibenik by securing a table at Pelegrini. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Fry Guy, another premier location with a delectable menu.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Caffe Palma, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Mystic. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Azimut, another top-rated place in the area.

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.

On day 8 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 Grad Skradin, Primošten, and Split. In the evening, you’ll end up in Split, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Šibenik promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Krka National Park. This peaceful national park is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Skradinski Buk, another idyllic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Beach Mala Raduča, one of the town’s most worthwhile attractions, known for its instagrammable features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Diocletian's Cellars. This heritage-rich archeological site is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Diocletian's Palace, an astonishing palace, and take a stroll around the area.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Split, 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 Split, 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 delicious meal at Nevera Tavern, a top-rated dining destination in Split. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Perivoj restoran i kavana, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Konoba Laganini. 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, Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, La Linea offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Fabrique Pub 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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Split. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dubrovnik, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Split, including an art gallery, a park, a beach, a boardwalk and much more! Start your day with a visit to Mestrovic Gallery. This underrated art gallery is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Marjan, which may be one of the most instagrammable places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Split on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Kašjuni Beach, an intriguing beach in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for West Bank.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Lucin Kantun Dubrovnik, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Portun offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, TuttoBene Pizzeria & Fast Food is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Dubrovnik.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Bosanka and Dubrovnik, 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 Metković. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, The Cathedral Of The Assumption Of The Virgin Mary, an inviting church that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Sponza Palace, one of the village’s most increasingly popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the beloved Porat Dubrovnik. When you're finished at the point of interest, Lovrijenac awaits your visit. This castle is a romantic highlight on today's itinerary.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Metković. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at Pizzeria MARINO, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Pizzeria Milano boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Konoba Lanterna. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Metković.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Carpe Diem Cafe, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Kave Bar Mb By Zvonko offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 11 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Grad Benkovac, Grad Biograd na Moru, and Pašman. 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.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Metković. Begin your sightseeing with Vidikovac, Kamenjak. This locally appreciated observation deck is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Plaža Dražica, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Metković, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Plaža Soline. This frequently visited beach is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Town Of Biograd, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Galešnjak is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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.

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 Roko, 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 Harbor CookHouse & Club, 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 Urnebes. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zadar tonight.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!