Along Dalmatian Coast through West Balkan Road Trip Itinerary
The Along Dalmatian Coast through West Balkan Road Trip is an amazing 14 day journey that starts in Opatija, Croatia and ends in Patras, Greece. With a total distance of 1598km, this scenic tour offers some of the best views of historical sites, landscapes, beaches, and UNESCO Heritage Monuments along the way.
The trip takes you through the following towns: Zadar, Šibenik, Split, Dubrovnik, Budva, and Tirana. Along the way, you'll enjoy some of the most beautiful beaches, stunning mountain views, and historic monuments. The roads are generally in good condition, but you should be aware that some of them may be curvy or narrow.
The best time to embark on this journey is from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny. With a moderate budget, you can enjoy a high level of experience and long-lasting memories. This road trip is suitable for all drivers and is an unforgettable way to explore the West Balkan region.
14
number of days
1,598 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
fair
accident level
START
Opatija
Distance 1,598 km
Driving time 32.2 h
Pace: modest
415.5 kWh
Airports
LJU
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RJK
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Opatija in Croatia is an ideal starting point for a road trip along the Dalmatian Coast through the West Balkans. This picturesque seaside town is a perfect place to begin your journey. Its stunning views and landscapes will captivate you, while its friendly local atmosphere will make you feel right at home.
The most interesting sights in Opatija are the Lungomare Promenade, which offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea, and the Učka Nature Park, which is home to lush forests, meadows, and wildlife. There is also the Opatija Museum, which provides insight into the history and culture of the region.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Rijeka Airport (RJK), located just 20 minutes away from Opatija. Car rentals are available at the airport, allowing you to easily begin your road trip along the Dalmatian Coast.
Opatija is a beautiful destination that offers something for everyone. From its stunning views to its lively atmosphere, it is a perfect starting point for your road trip along the Dalmatian Coast through the West Balkans.
1
Opatija
- Zadar
Distance 217 km
Driving time 4.1 h
Pace: modest
56.4 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for a road trip like no other? Embark on the Opatija to Zadar journey and explore the best of Croatia! This 217 km route will take you less than 5 hours of driving, with plenty of stops in between. Along the way, you will be mesmerized by picturesque landscapes, historic sites, and scenic roads. Don’t forget to take pictures of the breathtaking views! The winding roads in some sections will take your breath away. Make sure to take your time and enjoy the ride. You can find many attractions, accommodation options, restaurants, and campsites along the route in the “Itinerary” of this stage. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore the beautiful places in Opatija and Zadar for a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Zadar - Croatia - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Zadar - Croatia - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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2
Zadar
- Šibenik
Distance 75 km
Driving time 1.4 h
Pace: modest
19.6 kWh
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Embark on a 75km journey between Zadar and Šibenik and discover the beauty of Croatia. Take in the stunning views of the Adriatic coast as you drive on winding roads. Make sure to stop and explore some of the most interesting places along the way. Visit the ancient Roman Forum in Zadar and the Sea Organ. Then, drive to Šibenik to explore the UNESCO Heritage Site of St. Jacob's Cathedral and the fortress of St. Michael. This journey will take less than two hours and is one of the stages of a larger tour. During your drive, you will also find other interesting attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. For more information, please visit the “Itinerary” of this stage.
Šibenik - Croatia - Europe - Road Trip - www.goodfreephotos.com
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3
Šibenik
- Split
Distance 89 km
Driving time 1.8 h
Pace: modest
23.0 kWh
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Embark on a road trip from Šibenik to Split and explore some of the most beautiful corners of Croatia! This journey of 89 km will take you less than two hours of driving to reach your destination. Along the way, you will pass through the towns of Trogir and Omiš, as well as enjoy some of the most spectacular coastal views. The winding roads in certain sections will take you through some of Croatia's most stunning UNESCO Heritage sites. In Šibenik, be sure to check out the Cathedral of St. James, a 15th century masterpiece of Gothic-Renaissance architecture. For a truly unique experience, take a boat tour around the old town of Trogir, a fortified city-museum and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Omiš, a former pirate stronghold, you can explore the nearby Cetina River and the fortress of Mirabela. Finally, in Split, you can admire the Diocletian's Palace, a spectacular Roman ruin. There are plenty of opportunities for accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the way, and you can find more information about them in the "Itinerary" of this stage of the trip. So, get ready to explore the beauty of Croatia!
Split - Croatia - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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4
Split
- Dubrovnik
Distance 219 km
Driving time 4.1 h
Pace: modest
57.0 kWh
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Are you looking for an amazing road trip? Start in Split, Croatia and drive 219 km south to the city of Dubrovnik. The drive will take you less than 5 hours and you will have plenty of time to stop at some of the most interesting places along the way. You can visit the historical city of Trogir, where you will find the UNESCO World Heritage Site, St. Lawrence's Cathedral. You will also be able to take in the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and its picturesque landscapes along the way. Don't forget to stop and visit the small fishing village of Podstrana and enjoy the beautiful beaches. Make sure to also visit the city of Ston, where you can find the longest stone walls in Europe. Lastly, don't miss the opportunity to visit the city of Korčula, the birthplace of the famous traveler Marco Polo. This is just a small selection of what you can find along this road trip. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Let's get going!
Dubrovnik - Croatia - Europe - Road Trip - Flickr
Dubrovnik - Croatia - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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5
Dubrovnik
- Budva
Distance 92 km
Driving time 2.4 h
Pace: slow
21.1 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Dubrovnik to Budva! Explore the breathtaking beauty of the Adriatic Coast and uncover its rich history. This 92 km journey will take you less than three hours to complete and you will cross the Bosnian and Croatian border. Along the route, you will drive past some of the UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the Historic City of Kotor, as well as picturesque landscapes, winding roads and narrow sections. There is plenty to see and experience so don’t forget to keep your eyes open for interesting sights. You will also find several accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So get ready for the adventure of a lifetime and enjoy the journey from Dubrovnik to Budva!
Budva - Croatia - Europe - Road Trip - Wikipedia
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6
Budva
- Tirana
Distance 203 km
Driving time 4.7 h
Pace: modest
52.7 kWh
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Get ready for a road trip experience of a lifetime when you take the 203km journey from Budva in Montenegro to Tirana in Albania. You will experience some of the most beautiful views and attractions along the way, including Ulcinj, a city of fascinating cultural and historical sites. Stop to admire the picturesque landscapes, take a break to explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites, and enjoy the scenic roads. Don't forget to be mindful of the state border crossing and to take the necessary precautions. During your journey, you will also pass by some of the most beautiful beaches of the Adriatic Sea. To ensure that you get the most out of your experience, make sure to check the itinerary to get more detailed information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Have a safe and enjoyable trip!
Tirana - Croatia - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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7
Tirana
- Ohrid
Distance 130 km
Driving time 2.5 h
Pace: modest
33.8 kWh
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Embark on a 130km, 3-hour road trip from Tirana, Albania to Ohrid, Macedonia! Along the way, you'll cross the Albanian-Macedonian border and experience some steep ramps. This route offers some of the most beautiful views, including UNESCO World Heritage sites, winding roads, and narrow passages. You'll be able to take in some of the most picturesque landscapes as you drive along this route. There are plenty of historical sites to explore, as well as plenty of opportunities for photography. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for interesting sights along the way! For more information about attractions, accommodation, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!
Ohrid - Croatia - Europe - Road Trip - pixabay.com
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8
Ohrid
- Gjirokaster
Distance 262 km
Driving time 7.2 h
Pace: slow
60.2 kWh
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Embark on a road trip from Ohrid, North Macedonia to Gjirokaster, Albania and explore the beautiful Balkan region! This 262 km journey will take you fewer than 8 hours and will offer you amazing views of the stunning landscapes and a glimpse of the unique cultural heritage of this area.
You will pass by several UNESCO Heritage sites, so be sure to take your time and admire their beauty. As you drive, you will have to cross one state border and be mindful of the steep ramps and winding roads. There are also some narrow sections of the road that you need to be cautious of.
This journey is only one stage of a larger tour, so take your time to enjoy the amazing views of the picturesque landscapes and the breathtaking historical sites. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Gjirokaster - Croatia - Europe - Road Trip - Pixabay
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9
Gjirokaster
- Patras
Distance 312 km
Driving time 3.9 h
Pace: fast
93.6 kWh
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Embark on a road-trip starting in Gjirokaster, Albania, and ending in Patras, Greece, passing through 312 km of winding roads and picturesque landscapes. The entire journey takes less than 4 hours, but there are plenty of interesting sites to see along the way. Cross the Albanian-Greek border and discover UNESCO World Heritage sites like the old city of Gjirokaster, the Butrint National Park, and the old city of Ioannina. Along the way, you'll pass through some of the most stunning mountain landscapes in the region, so be sure to keep your eyes open for some stunning views. As you drive, you'll also pass through some of the narrowest and most winding roads in the region. Keep your eyes open for some of the most beautiful views in the region. As you reach the end of your journey, take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the old city of Patras. Finally, don't forget to check the "Itinerary" section of this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route.
Patras - Croatia - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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Patras
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Patras is the perfect end point for the “Along Dalmatian Coast through West Balkan Road Trip”. Located in the northern part of the Peloponnese, Patras is the third largest city in Greece and is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, its seaside promenade, and its numerous cultural and historical attractions.
Travelers driving to Patras will be amazed by the city's stunning architectural gems, such as the Roman Odeon and the Church of St Andrew, the patron saint of the city. For those who want to enjoy some outdoor activities, the nearby Patras Castle is a great option for a casual hike.
Patras is also a great place to explore the unique culture of the region. Visitors can explore the city's vibrant nightlife, with its numerous bars and clubs, or take a tour of the local museums and galleries. The local markets are also an excellent place to pick up some souvenirs and sample some of the area's traditional dishes.
The closest international airport to Patras is Araxos Airport (GPA), located approximately 40 kilometers away. From there, travelers can rent a car to explore the city and its surroundings.
At the end of a memorable road trip across the West Balkan, Patras is an ideal destination to relax and soak up the city's unique atmosphere. With its stunning historical attractions, vibrant nightlife, and wealth of cultural offerings, Patras is a must-visit destination for all travelers.
Along Dalmatian Coast through West Balkan Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Opatija
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End:
Patras
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Distance:
1,598 km
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Stay:
14 days
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Getting there:
Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU),
Rijeka Airport (RJK)
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When to drive:
April, May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the enthralling Along Dalmatian Coast through West Balkan Road Trip, a 14-day journey that unveils the enchanting beauty of the West Balkans. Starting from the genteel resort town of Opatija, Croatia, and winding down to the historic city of Patras, Greece, you'll traverse a distance of approximately 1598 km. The route is a treasure trove of stunning natural scenery, ancient historical landmarks, and idyllic beaches, offering a blend of cultural immersion and coastal relaxation.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Opatija: Revel in the elegance of this coastal town, known for its opulent Austro-Hungarian villas, lush gardens, and a promenade that offers breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea.
- Zadar: Delve into ancient history with the mesmerising sound of the Sea Organ and marvel at the architectural wonder of the pre-Romanesque Church of St. Donatus.
- Šibenik: Be awed by the Cathedral of St. James, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its fusion of Gothic and Renaissance elements.
- Split: Explore the remnants of Roman grandeur at Diocletian's Palace, a vast fortress-like complex that is at the heart of the city, and stroll along the Riva waterfront, lined with lively cafes and palm trees.
- Dubrovnik: Walk through the impeccably preserved Old Town and admire the massive city walls that have withstood the test of time, a testament to Dubrovnik's rich history as a significant Mediterranean sea power.
- Budva: Enjoy the allure of this Montenegrin gem with its stunning beaches and a charming Old Town encircled by medieval walls.
- Tirana: Experience the dynamism of Albania's capital, characterized by its colorful buildings, bustling Skanderbeg Square, and a mix of Ottoman, Fascist, and Soviet-era architecture.
Best Time to Go:
The optimal time to embark on this Road Trip is from June to September. During these months, you'll enjoy a Mediterranean climate with warm, sunny weather, ideal for sightseeing and taking full advantage of the region's beautiful beaches.
Potential Risks:
As you drive through this diverse region, be prepared for challenging Road conditions, including curvy and narrow stretches, particularly in the mountainous areas. It is important to drive with caution and be prepared for varying Road standards.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- With a moderate budget, Roadtrippers can indulge in a high-quality experience that includes comfortable accommodations and a plethora of dining choices.
- The Roads in this region are generally well-maintained, contributing to an enjoyable driving experience.
- There are a variety of lodging and culinary options to accommodate different budgets and preferences.
- The West Balkan region is a cultural melting pot, providing visitors with an extraordinary mix of historical insights, architectural marvels, and scenic landscapes.
A good choice for:
The Along Dalmatian Coast through West Balkan Road Trip is an unparalleled adventure for those eager to discover the rich tapestry of the West Balkans. It promises an unforgettable array of sights, from the azure coastlines of Croatia to the historic pathways of Greece, ensuring memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.
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