5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rijeka traveling east to Opatija and Zadar
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Description
Explore the best of Croatia on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Rijeka, Opatija, Plitvica Selo, Zadar, Split, and Trogir. This road trip itinerary in Croatia seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
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.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Rijeka. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
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 meal at Antonio, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Capote y Ole. Is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Baćo. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Rijeka tonight.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Charlie Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Wine Bar "kod Zajca" is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001 also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
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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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Rijeka and Opatija. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Opatija. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Rijeka is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures! Start at Maritime And History Museum Of The Croatian Coast, a frequently visited museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Natural History Museum Rijeka, enchanting visitors with its heritage-rich appeal. Continue your exploration at Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat. This church is one of the city’s most up-and-coming 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 Trsat Castle. After exploring the castle, head to the often recommended Maiden With The Seagull. Lastly, wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Slatina, a place of mesmerizing interest in Rijeka.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Opatija, 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 Opatija's best restaurants.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Bistro Yacht club, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Boćarija Grill offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Ružmarin is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Opatija.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Mare Cocktail Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Choco Bar - Bonbonnière Kraš is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Colosseum Lounge & Beach Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Croatia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
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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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 Plitvica Selo and 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 1 night.
Opatija is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a waterfall, an art installation, an archeological site, a church, a public square and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the intriguing Great Waterfall and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Sea Organ, a culturally significant art installation that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Monument To The Sun, one of the village’s most up-and-coming spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally appreciated Roman Forum. When you're finished at the archeological site, Church Of St. Donatus awaits your visit. This church is a photogenic highlight on today's itinerary. Last up is a public square - the up-and-coming 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.
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.
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.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road 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.
Today’s itinerary in Zadar covers several incredible sights, including a palace, a historical landmark, and a castle. Start your adventure at Diocletian's Palace. This extraordinary palace is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the photogenic wonders of Golden Gate, a must-see historical landmark 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 Kamerlengo Castle. This locally appreciated castle offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
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 you explore more of Rijeka, 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 wonderful meal at Trattoria Krug, a top-rated dining spot in Rijeka. If you're in the mood for something new, try Zelena Dolina, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Buffet "Cocco". Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Rijeka.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Teatro Lounge Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Book Caffe Dnevni Boravak, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Pub "bačva" also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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 underrated monument is a popular place to see in the city.
Maximize your last day in Croatia and go on a shopping spree in Rijeka’s shopping center, the lively Korzo. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Croatia. Discover boutiques with stylish fashion choices to upgrade your wardrobe. Take one last moment to soak in Croatia, and unwind with tea or coffee at a cozy cafe.
Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Rijeka.
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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