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
❯
❮
START
Zagreb
Distance 1,640 km
Driving time 31.9 h
Pace: modest
426.5 kWh
Airports
ZAG
[detailsContainer]
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
❯
❮
1
Zagreb
- Karlovac
- Novigrad
Distance 292 km
Driving time 5.1 h
Pace: modest
75.8 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
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
❯
❮
2
Novigrad
- Porec
- Rovinj
Distance 57 km
Driving time 1.3 h
Pace: modest
14.7 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
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
❯
❮
3
Rovinj
- Pula
- Opatija
Distance 123 km
Driving time 3.3 h
Pace: slow
28.2 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
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
❯
❮
4
Opatija
- Rijeka
- Senj
- Zadar
Distance 236 km
Driving time 4.1 h
Pace: modest
61.4 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
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
❯
❮
5
Zadar
- Šibenik
- Trogir
- Omis
Distance 195 km
Driving time 5.5 h
Pace: slow
44.8 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
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
❯
❮
6
Omis
- Makarska
- Dubrovnik
Distance 192 km
Driving time 3.6 h
Pace: modest
49.9 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
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
❯
❮
7
Dubrovnik
- Ston
- Korcula
Distance 123 km
Driving time 2.5 h
Pace: modest
31.9 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
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
❯
❮
8
Korcula
- Vela Luka
- Split
Distance 61 km
Driving time 1.1 h
Pace: modest
15.7 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
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
❯
❮
9
Split
- Sinj
- Knin
- Gračac
Distance 141 km
Driving time 2.2 h
Pace: fast
42.2 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
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
❯
❮
10
Gračac
- Jezerce
Distance 78 km
Driving time 1.0 h
Pace: fast
23.4 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
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
❯
❮
11
Jezerce
- Zagreb
Distance 145 km
Driving time 2.0 h
Pace: fast
43.4 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
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
❯
❮
Zagreb
[detailsContainer]
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
-
Start:
Zagreb
-
End:
Zagreb
-
Distance:
1,640 km
-
Stay:
14 days
-
Getting there:
Zagreb Airport (ZAG)
-
When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September
-
More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on a captivating 14-day Road Trip through Croatia's picturesque landscapes and historical treasures. Starting from the cosmopolitan city of Zagreb, this journey spans approximately 1640km and weaves through idyllic coastal towns, breathtaking national parks, and sites steeped in antiquity.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Zagreb: Dive into the capital's mix of contemporary culture and Austro-Hungarian architecture, visiting highlights such as the medieval old town of Gornji Grad and the vibrant Dolac Market.
- Novigrad, Rovinj, Opatija: Immerse yourself in the Istrian Peninsula's charm with Novigrad's fishing heritage, Rovinj's Venetian palaces, and Opatija's Habsburg-era villas.
- Zadar: Experience the harmonious blend of ancient history and modern innovation with the mesmerizing sound of the Sea Organ and the remnants of the Roman forum.
- Omis: Delve into the town's swashbuckling past of piracy and explore the dramatic Cetina River Canyon, perfect for adventure sports like rafting and canyoning.
- Dubrovnik: Wander through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, marvel at the formidable city walls, and discover the setting for many scenes from the popular TV series Game of Thrones.
- Korcula: Stroll through the alleged birthplace of the famed explorer Marco Polo, with its well-preserved medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene.
- Gračac and Jezerce: Venture close to the unparalleled beauty of Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its cascading lakes and waterfalls.
Best Time to Go:
The prime time for a Croatian Road Trip is between April and October, when the Mediterranean climate provides warm, sunny days and cool, pleasant evenings.
Potential Risks:
While the country's Roads are typically well-maintained, caution is advised on less-traveled paths, especially the serpentine routes along the coast and through mountainous areas. Familiarize yourself with Croatia's driving regulations to ensure a safe journey.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Croatia boasts a network of well-maintained highways and scenic byways, offering a comfortable driving experience.
- A moderate budget can afford you a fulfilling Trip, with plenty of affordable accommodation and dining options along the way.
- With eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the historical complex of Split and the Cathedral of Saint James in Šibenik, Croatia is a haven for cultural enthusiasts.
- The itinerary offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from lounging on pebbled beaches and sampling exquisite Croatian cuisine to immersing in the local arts and exploring age-old fortresses.
A good choice for:
Your 14-day Croatian Road Trip is an unforgettable odyssey through a country that effortlessly blends natural splendor with a wealth of cultural heritage. Each day presents a fresh palette of experiences, ensuring that you leave with a trove of cherished memories and a profound appreciation for Croatia's multifaceted allure.
-
