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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Split. You’ll stay in Split for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

A top thing to do today is to explore Bacvice, a must-see neighborhood in Split. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Immerse yourself in Split’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Marjan. This romantic park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the romantic features of West Bank, a must-visit boardwalk in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Split Viewpoint (belvedere), an underrated observation deck. For a change of scene, check out Diocletian's Palace, known for its enchanting features. We also recommend visiting Split Breakwater Lighthouse. This lighthouse is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

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.

Bring home unique finds from Split's bustling shopping hub, Marmontova Street. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique boutiques and stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Marmontova Street offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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.

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

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Trogir and Šibenik. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Šibenik, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Split is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a historical landmark, a castle, a museum, a church and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the underrated Trogir Old Town and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Kamerlengo Castle, a grand castle that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Šibenik City Museum, one of the town’s most increasingly popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally appreciated Šibenik Cathedral. When you're finished at the church, St. Nicholas Fortress awaits your visit. This castle is a history-steeped highlight on today's itinerary.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Šibenik. Šibenik 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 Šibenik, 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Antin Gušt Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Šibenik. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Fry Guy, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Atrium. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Šibenik this evening.

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

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

On day 5 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.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Sea Organ. This spectacular art installation is a detailed place to see in Šibenik. Continue your discovery at Monument To The Sun, an enchanting art installation with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Šibenik, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Roman Forum. This increasingly popular archeological site offers a culturally significant encounter with Šibenik. Next, make your way to Church Of St. Donatus to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit National Museum Zadar, a curiosity-inducing museum that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Narodni Trg, a locally appreciated public square in the city. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Šibenik.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Pizzeria Šime, a top-rated dining spot in Zadar. If you're in the mood for something new, try Harvatski restorant "Galiya", another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zadar.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Yachting Bar & Club after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Caffe Bar Porthos for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, The Factory Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 2 vibrant destinations - Caska and Lun. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Gajac. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s itinerary in Zadar covers several incredible sights, including a beach and an olive grove. Start your adventure at Zrce Festival Beach. This locally appreciated beach is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the romantic wonders of Olive Gardens Of Lun, a must-see olive grove in the village.

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 Vrtovi Lunjskih Maslina / Olive Gardens Of Lun / Ulaz 2 / Entrance 2 / Recepcija / Reception. This increasingly popular olive grove 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 Gajac. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the village.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Taverna Giardin, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Pizzeria More offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Street Food - BBQ Party is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Gajac.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bacardi, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Straško Camping, Beach Bar Taxi is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Caffe Bar Jež Plaza also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip 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 Rijeka. 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.

Immerse yourself in Gajac’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Trsat Castle. This romantic castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the breathtaking features of Petar Kružić Stairway, a must-visit monument in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Rijeka Cathedral, an up-and-coming church. For a change of scene, check out Natural History Museum Rijeka, known for its historic features.

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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Antonio, 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 Restaurant Capote y Ole. , 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 Baćo, a hidden gem nestled in Rijeka. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the evening going at Charlie Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Wine Bar "kod Zajca", which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Pula, 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 Pula. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Rijeka, including an archeological site, a church, a public square, a monument, a museum, a castle and much more! Start your day with a visit to Pula Arena. This spectacular archeological site is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Church And Monastery Of St. Francis, which may be one of the most eye-catching places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Rijeka on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Forum Square, an increasingly popular public square in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Temple Of Augustus and Historical And Maritime Museum Of Istria. End your day with a visit to Pula Citadel, an intriguing castle that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Pula, 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 Pula's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Pizzeria Samantha, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Fresh Sandwiches and Salads? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bistro Romantic Alley as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Pula.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Beach Bar Laplaya is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Shipyard Pub, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Zeppelin - Beach & Lounge Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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 10 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Pula, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Set aside time today to explore Rovinj Old Town, a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.

Start by visiting Panorama, a prime spot to begin your journey. This romantic observation deck is sure to impress. Next on your list is Church Of St. Euphemia, another must-visit landmark and intriguing church renowned for its enchanting features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Pula by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Batana Eco-museum. This heritage-rich museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Pula experience. We also recommend visiting Golden Cape Forest Park, a locally appreciated park. Nearby, you'll also find Park Forest Zlatni Rt, ready to add charm to your journey.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Pula. 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 delicious meal at Fine fast food Piantina, a highly-rated dining destination in Pula. If you're eager to try something different, consider Street Food Two, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran "Stari grad 02". With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Pula this evening.

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

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