Croatia Road Trip Itinerary
Embark on a journey to explore the beauty of Croatia with this 14-day Croatia Road Trip. Starting in Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, you will drive through the northern part of the country, passing through the towns of Novigrad, Rovinj, Opatija, Zadar, Omis, Dubrovnik, Korcula, Gračac, and Jezerce. Along the route, you will discover breathtaking landscapes, golden beaches, and historical sites, such as UNESCO Heritage Monuments. The total distance of the trip is ca. 1640km and roads are generally in excellent condition, with some parts being curvy or narrow. The best time to drive is from April to October.
This Croatia Road Trip offers a very high level of experience and memories to make along the way. With a fair budget, this trip is suitable for every driver and will leave you with unforgettable moments.
14
number of days
1,640 km
route length
moderate
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
Zagreb/Photo by robert_marinkovic on Pixabay
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START
Zagreb
Distance 1,640 km
Driving time 31.9 h
Pace: modest
426.5 kWh
Airports
ZAG
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The Croatian capital of Zagreb is the ideal starting point for the Croatia Road Trip. Zagreb is an exciting city, with a unique blend of history, culture and modern architecture. It is also home to a variety of museums, galleries, churches, theaters and restaurants.
For travelers arriving by air, the closest international airport is Zagreb Franjo Tuđman Airport (IATA: ZAG). At the airport, travelers can easily rent a car and start their Croatia Road Trip.
While in Zagreb, travelers should make sure to visit the Upper Town, a historical part of the city with a stunning view of the city. Other must-see sights include the Cathedral of the Assumption of Mary, the Museum of Broken Relationships, the Mirogoj Cemetery, the St. Mark's Church, and the Museum of Contemporary Art.
Zagreb offers something for everyone, and it is the perfect starting point for a Croatia Road Trip. With its vibrant culture and rich history, travelers will be sure to have an unforgettable experience.
Zagreb
Plitvice
Dubrovnik
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1
Zagreb
- Karlovac
- Novigrad
Distance 292 km
Driving time 5.1 h
Pace: modest
75.8 kWh
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Embark on an epic road trip starting in Zagreb, Croatia and ending in Novigrad. Along the way, you will explore the historic city of Karlovac, located only an hour away. Make sure to visit the 16th century Karlovac Castle to get a glimpse of the city's past. Not far away is the Mrežnica River, where you can take a refreshing dip or go fishing. Once you reach Novigrad, you'll be greeted by its picturesque harbor and old town. Make sure to explore the ancient walls and gates of the city and visit the Church of St. Pelagius and St. Maximus for a true taste of history. This 292km journey will take you fewer than 5 hours and is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Along the way, make sure to take in the stunning views and keep an eye out for historical sites. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the Itinerary of this stage.
Novigrad - Croatia - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Novigrad - Croatia - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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2
Novigrad
- Porec
- Rovinj
Distance 57 km
Driving time 1.3 h
Pace: modest
14.7 kWh
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Start your adventure in Novigrad, Croatia and take a 57 km scenic drive to Porec, where you can explore the old town and its many historical sites. Take a stroll along the cobblestone streets and marvel at the old churches and monuments. Don't miss out on the UNESCO World Heritage site of Euphrasian Basilica, a stunning example of Byzantine architecture. From Porec, continue your journey to Rovinj, a beautiful coastal town with a picturesque harbor. Take a boat trip to the nearby islands and enjoy the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. As you drive, keep an eye out for the many historical sites, quaint villages, and breathtaking landscapes. Along the way, you'll also find some UNESCO World Heritage sites, making this journey even more memorable. With a driving time of fewer than two hours, this is one of the stages of a larger tour and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, hop in your car and enjoy this amazing road trip!
Rovinj - Croatia - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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3
Rovinj
- Pula
- Opatija
Distance 123 km
Driving time 3.3 h
Pace: slow
28.2 kWh
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Embark on a road trip through Croatia's stunning Istrian coast! Starting in Rovinj, a beautiful coastal town known for its Venetian-inspired architecture, you will travel south towards Pula, a city boasting a wealth of history and culture. Along the way, admire the picturesque landscapes and winding roads, and don't forget to keep an eye out for the many historical sites. Once you arrive in Pula, visit the ancient Roman amphitheatre, one of the best-preserved monuments of its kind in the world. From Pula, continue your journey towards Opatija, a charming coastal town with a Mediterranean atmosphere. The 123 km journey will take you less than four hours, so make sure to take frequent stops along the way to enjoy the scenery. With its beautiful beaches, lush forests, and crystal clear waters, this is a road trip you won't soon forget. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Bon voyage!
Opatija - Croatia - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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4
Opatija
- Rijeka
- Senj
- Zadar
Distance 236 km
Driving time 4.1 h
Pace: modest
61.4 kWh
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Embark on a 236km road trip from Opatija, Croatia, to Zadar, with a stop in Rijeka and Senj. This journey will take you fewer than 5 hours, and along the way you will get to experience some of the most beautiful and interesting places in Croatia.
As you make your way from Opatija to Rijeka, you will be surrounded by stunning views of the Adriatic Sea, and you will have the opportunity to explore the old town of Rijeka, which is full of historical sites and monuments.
From Rijeka, you will continue your journey to Senj, a picturesque town with a rich history. Here you will find numerous monuments, churches, and other attractions.
Finally, you will reach your destination, the city of Zadar. Here you will find some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, as well as a vibrant nightlife.
The road is mostly very windy, so be sure to be extra careful while driving. Along the way, you can take in the scenery and enjoy the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Zadar - Croatia - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Zadar - Croatia - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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5
Zadar
- Šibenik
- Trogir
- Omis
Distance 195 km
Driving time 5.5 h
Pace: slow
44.8 kWh
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Start your journey in Zadar, Croatia and explore the historical sites and stunning scenery of the Adriatic coast. With a distance of 195km and a driving time of fewer than 6 hours, you'll have plenty of time to enjoy the journey. Along the way, you will pass through Šibenik, Trogir, and Omis, all of which have UNESCO Heritage sites to explore. The road is winding in some sections, so make sure to keep your eyes open for the stunning views! With some of the most beautiful and historical sites in Croatia, you'll have plenty to explore. Make sure to check out the St. James Cathedral in Šibenik, the Fortress Kamerlengo in Trogir, and the Fortica Fortress in Omis. If you're looking for a camping spot, there are many available in the area. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary for this stage of the journey. Enjoy your road trip!
Omis - Croatia - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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6
Omis
- Makarska
- Dubrovnik
Distance 192 km
Driving time 3.6 h
Pace: modest
49.9 kWh
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Take a road trip from Omis to Dubrovnik and experience the beauty of the Croatian coast along the way. Start your journey in Omis and drive along the winding roads of the Makarska Riviera. Visit Makarska, a stunning seaside town with a vibrant atmosphere and plenty of attractions. Here you can admire the beautiful St. Mark's Church or take a stroll along the promenade. Continue your drive and explore the stunning landscapes of the Croatian countryside. Stop at some of the most interesting sites on your way, such as the UNESCO Heritage-listed Ston Walls. As you make your way to Dubrovnik, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. The journey is only 192 km long and takes less than four hours, so you can easily make a few stops along the way. Make sure to check the itinerary of this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites. Enjoy your road trip!
Dubrovnik - Croatia - Europe - Road Trip - Flickr
Dubrovnik - Croatia - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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7
Dubrovnik
- Ston
- Korcula
Distance 123 km
Driving time 2.5 h
Pace: modest
31.9 kWh
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Take a road trip from Dubrovnik to Korcula and explore the beautiful Dalmatian coast! Along the way, you'll pass through Ston, a charming old town with a rich history. Get ready for a 123 km journey with fewer than 3 hours of driving. On the way, you'll get to enjoy the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea, as well as the historical sites, narrow roads, and ferry crossings. Be sure to take your time and enjoy the scenery along the way. Once you arrive in Ston, take some time to explore the old city walls and the salt pans, which are a symbol of the town's heritage. In Korcula, you can visit the old town of Korcula, which is full of historical sites and beautiful architecture. Make sure to explore the old streets and visit the local restaurants. There is so much to discover in this part of Croatia, so make sure to take your time and enjoy the journey. More information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Korcula - Croatia - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Korcula - Croatia - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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8
Korcula
- Vela Luka
- Split
Distance 61 km
Driving time 1.1 h
Pace: modest
15.7 kWh
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A road trip from Korcula to Split is a must for all travelers looking for an adventurous and memorable experience. This 61 km route takes less than two hours to complete and offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. Along the way, you will pass through the town of Vela Luka, where you can take a ferry crossing, and get a glimpse of some of the UNESCO Heritage sites. As you drive, you will be mesmerized by the narrow roads that hug the coastline and provide stunning views of the sea. Be sure to make a few stops along the way to take in the beauty of this historic region. Don't forget to check out the Itinerary for this stage to find out more about the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your journey!
Split - Croatia - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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9
Split
- Sinj
- Knin
- Gračac
Distance 141 km
Driving time 2.2 h
Pace: fast
42.2 kWh
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip through Croatia? This stage starts in Split and leads you through Sinj and Knin, before ending in Gračac. The entire journey is 141km and should take you less than 3 hours to complete. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to explore some of Croatia's most interesting historical sites.
In Split, be sure to visit the Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important cultural sites in the country. In Sinj, the Sinjska Alka is a must-see, a traditional equestrian competition that has been held since 1717. And in Knin, the fortress of Knin is an impressive structure that was built in the 9th century.
For more information on attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. With so much to see and do, this road trip is sure to be an unforgettable experience!
Gračac - Croatia - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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10
Gračac
- Jezerce
Distance 78 km
Driving time 1.0 h
Pace: fast
23.4 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Gračac, Croatia to Jezerce! This 78 km journey takes less than an hour and offers some of the most stunning landscapes in the region. From Gračac, make sure to take in the beauty of the UNESCO Heritage sites along the way, including the Church of St. John the Baptist and the Church of St. George. As you drive, you'll be winding through some of Croatia's most picturesque roads, so make sure to take in the scenery! You'll also pass through some of the most picturesque villages you've ever seen, so keep an eye out for unique attractions and experiences. Finally, you'll arrive in Jezerce, the perfect place to end your journey. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, make sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Happy travels!
Jezerce - Croatia - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Jezerce - Croatia - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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Jezerce
- Zagreb
Distance 145 km
Driving time 2.0 h
Pace: fast
43.4 kWh
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Welcome to the magical road trip stage starting in Jezerce, Croatia and leading through Plitvice Lakes National Park, Karlovac and ending in Zagreb. This 145 km journey, taking less than two hours, is filled with beautiful natural and historical sites.
Plitvice Lakes National Park is a must-see for any traveler. The sixteen interconnected lakes, cascading waterfalls, and lush forest will leave you mesmerized. There are also plenty of trails for the more adventurous traveler.
Next, you will pass through Karlovac, a city full of history. There are several monuments and museums to explore, including the Karlovac City Museum and the Karlovac Fortress.
Finally, you will arrive in Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. This vibrant city is full of history, culture, and art. Don’t miss the Zagreb Cathedral and the Mirogoj Cemetery.
Along the way, make sure to take in the breathtaking scenery and enjoy the local delicacies. More information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable journey!
Zagreb - Croatia - Europe - Road Trip - Вікіпедія
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Zagreb
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The end of your incredible road trip through Croatia - "Croatia Road Trip" - awaits in Zagreb. The capital of Croatia is a vibrant and beautiful city, full of fascinating sites, activities, and attractions.
Start your journey to Zagreb from the top of the city at the Zagreb Cathedral, an impressive and imposing building with a rich history. From there, you can make your way to the Dolac market, where you can buy fresh produce, local delicacies, and souvenirs. Stroll through the streets of the Upper Town and explore the many galleries and museums.
Next, head to Maksimir Park, a large and beautiful park with a zoo, a lake, and plenty of green spaces. You can also visit the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Museum of Broken Relationships, both of which offer interesting insights into Croatian culture.
For a more relaxed experience, take a tour of the Tkalčićeva Street. This pedestrianized street is lined with cafes and bars, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
If you're looking for a bit of shopping, head to the city's main square, Trg Bana Jelačića. Here you'll find a variety of shops, and you can also take a tram to explore the rest of the city.
Finally, make your way to Zagreb Airport (IATA code ZAG) and catch your flight home. Zagreb is the perfect ending point for your amazing "Croatia Road Trip".
Croatia Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Zagreb
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End:
Zagreb
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Distance:
1,640 km
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Stay:
14 days
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Getting there:
Zagreb Airport (ZAG)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
We believe that the presented itinerary idea gave you multiple inspirations for your future holidays.
The plan we’ve prepared can be used as a base that can be recreated in its entirety or only partially and that can be enriched with original attractions of your choice.
If you are planning on travelling by car in Croatia, there are a number of vital road rules to follow and a bunch of elements to be mindful of to make your road adventure smooth and safe.
The following road rules will surely become useful for all holidaymakers considering car rental or renting a camper in Croatia.
Sightseeing around Croatia in a vehicle requires you to follow the local road regulations.
When moving around Croatia in a car, it is best to avoid alcohol at any cost.
Travellers should remember that the allowed consumption limit is extremely low and equals only 0.5‰.
Exceeding the maximum allowed speed limit, which is 50km/h, around the city may lead to a speeding ticket.
Around rural areas, holidaymakers can travel at at speeds up to 90km/h.
Exceeding 130km/h on motorways is penalised.
In order to stay safe, it is best to drive with your headlights on at daytime and equip your vehicle with a fire extinguisher and first aid kit.
You’re probably wondering about the costs of the whole trip.
Depending on the budget option that you choose, the total cost of the whole road trip may vary.
A wide range of budget options is described below.
We estimate that the cheapest offer when it comes to gasoline to cover the planned 12 stages while travelling around Croatia can equal as much as 225 EUR.
Travel expenses connected with economy accommodation will cost up to about 737 EUR.
If this option is your target, you will spend around 1,008 EUR on food and restaurants.
Travellers will have to pay around 630 EUR if they aim for the cheapest hire car option as well.
Thus, going for car rental will increase the costs of the road trip from around 1,970 EUR to roughly 2,600 EUR.
Holidaymakers who are looking for greater comfort and the standard option should be prepared to pay the maximum of 300 EUR for the gasoline needed to cover the tour.
If you are into standard accommodation options, expect that the expenses can amount up to more or less 1,298 EUR.
Drivers may expect that the standard option in terms of restaurants and food will cost about 1,512 EUR.
Travellers who want to cover the trip in a standard hire vehicle can expect a cost of more or less 756 EUR.
Drivers who would like to rent a car will pay roughly 3,866 EUR for the whole itinerary, whereas those who are not interested in vehicle rental will spend approximately 3,110 EUR.
The highest level of comfort of the premium option will come up to the expectations of the most demanding drivers.
Drivers who would like to rent a car will pay more or less 6,467 EUR for the whole trip, whereas those who are not interested in vehicle rental will spend about 4,451 EUR.
Travellers who would like to cover the road trip in a premium rental car should expect a cost of about 2,016 EUR.
When it comes to the top standard version of the tour, you need to spend the maximum of 400 EUR on the fuel needed to cover the itinerary.
Holidaymakers should expect to pay approximately 2,016 EUR for food and restaurants and more or less 2,035 EUR for accommodation options if they are searching for the exclusive standard of services.
Our trip is also superb for camper enthusiasts.
If you choose this travel means, the expenses are roughly 3,150 EUR.
If you are wondering about the gasoline costs for the whole tour, they will amount to about 438 EUR.
Holidayers who would like to go for camper hire should expect to pay roughly 770 EUR for overnight stays and more or less 1,008 EUR for expenses connected with food.
The section Road Trip Costs presents all the mentioned details in an easy to follow manner.
The part of Croatia described in our Croatia Road Trip is perfect to be visited between May and September.
There are numerous interesting road adventures that we offer on our website if Croatia Road Trip has sparked your creativity.
The great versatility of road trips will definitely come up to the expectations of the most demanding travellers.