9-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rijeka to Pula, Zadar, and Split

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Pula. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Pula, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures in Rijeka. Begin your sightseeing with Aquarium Pula. This captivating aquarium is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Temple Of Augustus, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Rijeka, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Forum Square. This increasingly popular public square is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Historical And Maritime Museum Of Istria, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Pula Citadel is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers. Conclude your day at Roman Theater and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most often recommended attractions.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Pula. Pula 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 Pula. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Pizzeria Samantha, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Fresh Sandwiches and Salads is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bistro Romantic Alley. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Pula tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Beach Bar Laplaya, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Shipyard Pub offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Pula. Zeppelin - Beach & Lounge Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 3 of your road trip in Croatia, you’ll start and end your day in Pula, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Pula for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Rovinj and Pula to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Rovinj Old Town is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Rovinj, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the town.

Pula is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Church Of St. Euphemia, a beloved church that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Golden Cape Forest Park, enchanting visitors with its majestic appeal. Continue your exploration at Park Forest Zlatni Rt. This park is one of the town’s most underrated spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Pula at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Pula Arena. After exploring the archeological site, head to the underrated Verudela Canyon.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Fine fast food Piantina, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Street Food Two is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restoran "Stari grad 02". As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Pula tonight.

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

Relax and reminisce about your day in Croatia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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 Zadar. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zadar, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Get ready for an exciting day in Pula. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a beach, a park, a public square, an art installation and much more! Begin your adventure at Kolovare Beach. This is a curiosity-inducing beach you should not miss. Another must-see is Queen Jelena Madijevka Park, an up-and-coming park in Pula.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to The Five Wells Square. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Sea Organ, another of the city’s top-rated attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Monument To The Sun, a noteworthy place of interest in the city.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Pizzeria Šime, a top-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Harvatski restorant "Galiya", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Yachting Bar & Club after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Caffe Bar Porthos, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Factory Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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.

Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip in Croatia. With 1 night left in Zadar, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Zadar, featuring family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Roman Forum, an often recommended archeological site in the city. Then, head to Zadar Cathedral and soak in the ambiance of this stunning church.

There are many interesting places to see in Zadar, and when you are ready for more, go to Church Of St. Donatus. This is one of the city’s most frequently visited heritage-rich spots of interest. After exploring the church, visit the intriguing National Museum Zadar. Not far away, you'll also find Market Zadar. This market is an instagrammable highlight in Zadar. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Solana Nin Salt Museum, a worthwhile museum in the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Zadar and your accommodation.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant 2Ribara. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Pirate Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Caffe Bar Bizarre, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Backstage Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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.

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Šibenik and Split, 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 Split. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic 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. Šibenik Cathedral is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this culturally significant church before continuing your journey. Šibenik City Museum is your next stop. This increasingly popular museum 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 St. Nicholas’ Fortress. This UNESCO world heritage-designated castle is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Golden Gate and Diocletian's Palace.

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

Savor the flavors at Nevera Tavern, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Perivoj restoran i kavana beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Konoba Laganini. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Split tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. La Linea is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Fabrique Pub ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Day 7 of your road trip across Croatia promises a magnificent time exploring Split. You have 1 night left in Split. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Split today. One of the most captivating attractions included on the itinerary is Marjan. This majestic park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to West Bank and learn what makes this enchanting boardwalk unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the worthwhile Split Viewpoint (belvedere). After exploring the observation deck, head to Mestrovic Gallery. This intriguing art gallery is a highlight in Split. As your day continues, stop by Meštrovićeve Crikvine - Kaštilac, known for its picture-perfect features. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the beloved Kašjuni Beach. Enjoy exploring this incredible beach at your own pace.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Babylon, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try DeListes restaurant Split? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bokeria Kitchen & Wine as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Split.

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

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