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.

Don’t miss Korzo in Rijeka today, a must-see street that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.

Rijeka is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures! Start at Maritime And History Museum Of The Croatian Coast, an increasingly popular museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Continue your exploration at Rijeka Cathedral. This church is one of the city’s most worthwhile spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Rijeka at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat. After exploring the church, head to the notable Trsat Castle.

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 Rijeka. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day'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.

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.

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

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Rijeka, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Mala Fortica, an up-and-coming point of interest in the town. Then, head to Opatija and soak in the ambiance of this romantic beach.

After exploring the sightseeing destination, visit the curiosity-inducing Croatian Museum Of Tourism. Not far away, you'll also find Maiden With The Seagull. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Slatina, an up-and-coming beach in the town.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Bistro Yacht club, a highly-rated dining destination in Opatija. If you're eager to try something different, consider Boćarija Grill, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ružmarin. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Opatija this evening.

Keep the evening going at Mare Cocktail Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Choco Bar - Bonbonnière Kraš, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Colosseum Lounge & Beach Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Rovinj, 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 Rovinj. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Opatija today. One of the most underrated attractions included on the itinerary is Golden Cape Forest Park. This peaceful park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Park Forest Zlatni Rt and learn what makes this eye-catching park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the curiosity-inducing Batana Eco-museum. After exploring the museum, head to Panorama. This curiosity-inducing observation deck is a highlight in Opatija. As your day continues, stop by Church Of St. Euphemia, known for its inviting features.

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.

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.

Savor the flavors at Kantinon Tavern, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Scuba restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider La Vigna. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Rovinj tonight.

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

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Rovinj, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Brkač, Motovun, Grožnjan, and Kuberton. You still have 1 night left in Rovinj.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Rovinj. Begin your sightseeing with Fakin. This often recommended sightseeing destination is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Town Gate, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Rovinj, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Church Of St. Stephen. This intriguing church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Laparenzana, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Town Loggia is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers. Conclude your day at Waterfall Butori and uncover why it's recognized as one of the village's most often recommended attractions.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Da Piero, an iconic dining spot in Rovinj. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La Perla, a popular restaurant in Rovinj. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Balbi Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Rovinj. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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 1 vibrant destinations - 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.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Plitvička Jezera, including an art installation, an archeological site, a church, a museum, a public square and much more! Start your day at Sea Organ. This romantic art installation is a top-rated place to see in Plitvička Jezera. Then, wander over to Monument To The Sun. If romantic sites excite you, this art installation will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Roman Forum. This culturally significant archeological site is a favorite among visitors.

Plitvička Jezera offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Church Of St. Donatus is a locally appreciated spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the church, don’t forget to check out the photogenic National Museum Zadar. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this underrated museum. Wrap up your self-guided tour of Plitvička Jezera's top attractions with a visit to Narodni Trg.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Pizzeria Šime, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Harvatski restorant "Galiya" is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Zadar tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Yachting Bar & Club, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Caffe Bar Porthos is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The Factory Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Pula. 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.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Zadar, including an archeological site, a castle, a public square, a monument and much more! Start your adventure at Pula Arena. This spectacular archeological site is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Pula Citadel located in Zadar for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Forum Square. Its visually striking features will captivate you. After the public square, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Temple Of Augustus. Visitors usually appreciate the history-steeped features of this monument.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restoran Morčić, a top-rated dining spot in Rijeka. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bowling Center Rijeka, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Seafood restaurant Feral. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Rijeka.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Pet Jedan Tapas Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, "metropolis" Caffe Bar & Night Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Caffe Bar Kosi Toranj also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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