6-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rijeka to Zadar and Split
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Croatia as you embark on an unforgettable 6-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Rijeka, Korenica, Plitvica Selo, Zadar, Split, and Trogir.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Croatia takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Rijeka, 1 night in Zadar, and 1 night in Split. 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. Plitvice Lakes National Park and Diocletian's Palace are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Sea Organ, learn more about the unique Krka National Park, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Marjan.
As you hit the open road and drive through Rijeka, Korenica, 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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- Trsat Castle
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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 2 nights 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 Trsat Castle, or just 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.
Savor the flavors at Antonio, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Capote y Ole. Beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Baćo. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Rijeka tonight.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Charlie Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Wine Bar "kod Zajca" for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001 is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Croatia!
Day 2
- Rijeka
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Drive 363 km, 5 hours
- Plitvice Lakes National Park
- Great Waterfall
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On day 2 of your road trip in Croatia, you’ll start and end your day in Rijeka, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Rijeka for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Korenica and Plitvica Selo to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Rijeka, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Plitvice Lakes National Park, a globally renowned national park in the city. Then, head to Great Waterfall and soak in the ambiance of this mesmerizing waterfall.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Rijeka.
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 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.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Croatia!
Day 3
- Rijeka
- Zadar
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Drive 295 km, 3 hours 31 min
- Sea organ
- The Greeting to the Sun
- Roman Forum
- Archaeological Museum Zadar
- 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 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of 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.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Rijeka, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Sea Organ, a top-rated art installation in the city. Then, head to Monument To The Sun and soak in the ambiance of this noteworthy art installation.
There are many interesting places to see in Rijeka, and when you are ready for more, go to Roman Forum. This is one of the city’s most often recommended historic spots of interest. After exploring the archeological site, visit the beloved Archaeological Museum Zadar. Not far away, you'll also find Church Of St. Donatus. This church is an inviting highlight in Rijeka. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Narodni Trg, a curiosity-inducing public square 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.
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.
Dine in style at Pizzeria Šime, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Harvatski restorant "Galiya" boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restoran Zadar - Jadera. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zadar.
Keep the evening going at Yachting Bar & Club, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Caffe Bar Porthos, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Factory Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day 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.
Day 4
- Zadar
- Split
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Drive 165 km, 2 hours 20 min
- Forest Park Marjan
- Radić Brothers Square (Fruit Square)
- Diocletian's Palace
- Golden Gate
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore 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 1 night.
Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Marjan. This locally renowned park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Voćni Trg In Split, one of the city’s best highlights.
Next, check out Diocletian's Palace, one of the most extraordinary places to see in Zadar. This palace is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Golden Gate. Wander around and soak in the symbolic atmosphere this historical landmark offers.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Nevera Tavern, an iconic dining spot in Split. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Perivoj restoran i kavana, a popular restaurant in Split. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Konoba Laganini, a hidden gem nestled in Split. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. La Linea is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Fabrique Pub is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Croatia!
Day 5
- Split
- Rijeka
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Drive 452 km, 5 hours 15 min
- Puerta de la Tierra
- Krka National Park
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Trogir. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Rijeka, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s agenda in Split includes a historical landmark and a national park. Sjeverna Vog is must-visit historical landmark and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Krka National Park, a widely recognized national park, located just a leisurely stroll away.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Rijeka. Rijeka offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Restoran Morčić, an iconic dining spot in Rijeka. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bowling Center Rijeka, a popular restaurant in Rijeka. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Seafood restaurant Feral, a hidden gem nestled in Rijeka. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Pet Jedan Tapas Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to "metropolis" Caffe Bar & Night Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Caffe Bar Kosi Toranj is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Croatia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 6
- Rijeka - Departure day
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- Korzo
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Day 6 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.
One of the best things to do on your last day is to explore Korzo, a street that captures the true essence of Rijeka. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
On your last day in Croatia, take time to indulge in shopping at Rijeka’s popular marketplace, Korzo. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces. Wrap up your shopping with a drink and some pastries 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.
Savor the flavors at ŠtoRija, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Conca d'oro 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!
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