5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rijeka traveling east to Opatija and Zadar
Description
Included
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!
Travel details
Set your travel details to find the best price
Flights
Compare and choose from the best flights to Rijeka
Car
Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Rijeka - Arrival day
- More
- Korzo
- More
Say hello to Rijeka! Your exciting road trip through Croatia is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Rijeka for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
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.
Find your way to your hotel in Rijeka. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Antonio, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Capote y Ole. Offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Baćo. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Rijeka.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Charlie Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Wine Bar "kod Zajca" is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001 provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Croatia!
Day 2
- Rijeka
- Opatija
- More
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
- More
Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Rijeka and Opatija, 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 Opatija. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Begin your adventure at Maritime And History Museum Of The Croatian Coast. This is an intriguing museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Natural History Museum Rijeka, a beloved museum in Rijeka.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Trsat Castle, another of the city’s popular attractions. If time allows, add Slatina to your itinerary. This worthwhile beach offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Rijeka.
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 dining experience at Bistro Yacht club, a popular restaurant in Opatija. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Opatija at Boćarija Grill, 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 Ružmarin. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Opatija tonight.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Mare Cocktail Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Choco Bar - Bonbonnière Kraš. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Colosseum Lounge & Beach Bar, another top-rated place in the area.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!
Day 3
- Opatija
- Zadar
- More
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
- More
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 Plitvica Selo and Zadar. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zadar, where you will stay for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Opatija, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Great Waterfall, a worthwhile waterfall in the village. Then, head to Sea Organ and soak in the ambiance of this romantic art installation.
There are many interesting places to see in Opatija, and when you are ready for more, go to Monument To The Sun. This is one of the village’s most up-and-coming enchanting spots of interest. After exploring the art installation, visit the up-and-coming Roman Forum. Not far away, you'll also find Church Of St. Donatus. This church is a monumental highlight in Opatija. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Narodni Trg, a frequently visited public square in the village.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Zadar's best restaurants.
Savor the flavors at Pizzeria Šime, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Harvatski restorant "Galiya" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restoran Zadar - Jadera. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zadar tonight.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Yachting Bar & Club. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Porthos offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Factory Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!
Day 4
- Zadar
- Rijeka
- More
Drive 572 km, 6 hours 15 min
- Diocletian's Palace
- Golden Gate
- Kamerlengo Castle
- More
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Split and Trogir. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Rijeka. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Zadar on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Diocletian's Palace is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this visually striking palace before continuing your journey. Golden Gate is your next stop. This often recommended historical landmark is one of the best-rated sights in Zadar.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Kamerlengo Castle. This romantic castle is a sight to behold.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Rijeka's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Trattoria Krug, a highly-rated dining destination in Rijeka. If you're eager to try something different, consider Zelena Dolina, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Buffet "Cocco". With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Rijeka this evening.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Teatro Lounge Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Book Caffe Dnevni Boravak is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Pub "bačva" offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Croatia!
Day 5
- Rijeka - Departure day
- More
- Petar Kružić Stairway
- More
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, we recommend visiting Petar Kružić Stairway, a symbolic monument before you head out.
On your last day in Croatia, take time to indulge in shopping at Rijeka’s popular marketplace, City Center one Rijeka. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Rijeka.
Savor the flavors at Restoran Morčić, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bowling Center Rijeka beckons with its unique menu offerings.
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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Croatia
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.
