Explore Croatia in 14 Days: A Complete Road Trip Itinerary

March 15, 2024

Croatia is a popular spot in the Balkans, known for its natural beauty, impressive mountains, and beautiful beaches. A road trip is the perfect way to soak in Croatia’s varied landscapes.

We’ll guide you through driving in Croatia, answer common questions about road trips here, and share our 14-day journey. This two-week long road trip will allow you to see Croatia’s best sights, and taste the local cuisine and culture.

Since Croatia is a neighboring country for us, and we travel there quite often, we have gained a lot of experience from our visits. This guide is packed with tips to help you enjoy your holiday in Croatia.

Before we dive into the 14-day Croatia trip, here are some things to know.

Is it worth visiting Croatia?

Yes, it is! If you’re into Mediterranean vibes, sea views, amazing blue beaches, historic buildings, lovely islands, and breathtaking views, Croatia is a must-see place.

The best time for a two-week Croatia road trip

Your perfect time to visit depends on your plans.

  • For city sightseeing: spring or fall.
  • For beach holiday: summer, though it’s busy with huge crowds
  • For a bit of everything without the heat and the crowds: June or September.

How to get to Croatia

If you’re close to Croatia, traveling with your own car is the best option. The country is easily accessible by highway. Since 2023, with Croatia being part of the Schengen Area, there are no border checks when entering from the west and north, making car travel smoother.

If you’re traveling by plane, you can choose from a few airports to start your journey. To determine the best airport in Croatia for this, the linked article may help.

Our route starts and ends in Zagreb, since most international flights land there.

For flights, check Omio for good deals.

Driving in Croatia

We’ve heard that driving in Croatia is supposed to be great, but we have to disagree.

The driving style in many Slavic countries, including Croatia, can be a bit wild compared to other places. And with lots of tourists from different countries on the roads, it can get pretty chaotic.

It feels unsafe, especially in summer when the highways are packed. There aren’t many cameras or police checks, so a lot of people speed.

The traffic jams can get really bad, especially on weekends in the summer.

That’s why we recommend avoiding travel during the peak season (July and August).

Car rental in Croatia

If you arrive by plane, we strongly recommend car hire to complete the 14-day itinerary. Although it is not impossible to get from one place to another by public transport, it would probably be more difficult and slower than by car.

You can rent a car in Zagreb, we recommend Rentalcars.com to see the options.

Costs of a trip to Croatia

As mentioned above, traveling to Croatia is no longer cheap. It used to be an affordable seaside destination, but in recent years it has become significantly more expensive. This is due to Covid-19, the changeover to the euro, inflation, and the huge influx of tourists that flood Croatia every summer.

Hotels, tolls, restaurants, and shops are also pricey. Fuel and parking are at average prices by European standards (except in Dubrovnik, which is the most expensive place in the whole country).

If you’re looking to save money on your Croatia road trip, the savings might be minimal. Many costs are almost fixed, such as fuel, tolls, and meals.

You can potentially save on hotels by adjusting your expectations. However, it’s important to note that Croatian hotels might not meet the typical standards of their category. Opting for a 3-star hotel over a 4-star to save money might not be worth it, considering potential issues with cleanliness, opening hours, breakfast options, etc.

The best way to save money on hotels – reasonably – is to avoid the high season. Travel in May, June, September or October, and you’ll find the same hotel 20-40% cheaper than in high season. However, keep in mind that the sea in Croatia might be too cold for swimming in these less expensive periods.

You can save a little on tolls if you use the free roads, but for a trip of about a week in Croatia, it will still be a small amount, and you could end up spending many extra hours on the road.

You can also save money on food. While a main course at a fancy place can cost between 15–30 euros, you might opt for more affordable options like buffets and fast-food restaurants instead. At more budget-friendly places, you can find a main meal for less than €10 per person.

Generally speaking, you can expect to spend some thousand euros for an 8-day road trip in Croatia. If you drive your own car, then one week costs from around €1,500 for two people. If you arrive by plane and rent a car to explore Croatia, it’s much more expensive, at least €2,000 to €3,000.

A trip to Croatia isn’t cheap, but it’s absolutely worth it for the many sights, natural beauty and interesting attractions.

Is it safe to travel in Croatia?

Croatia has very low crime rates and is one of the safest countries in the region. So you can travel wherever you want without fear of criminals. Of course, regardless of this, you should still take basic precautions.

Is tap water drinkable in Croatia?

Absolutely, Croatia has good quality tap water, so there’s nothing to worry about.

After addressing the frequently asked questions, here’s the itinerary for our 2-week road trip in Croatia.

14-day road trip itinerary in Croatia

Our 14-day Croatia itinerary starts from Zagreb, where those arriving by plane usually land. However, as this itinerary describes a circular trip, you can of course start and end on any day of your choice.

We took a mix of activities: sightseeing, beach holidays and ancient ruins.

The 2-week itinerary covers almost the whole of Croatia and, with good planning, you can even include nearby attractions in the neighboring countries.

On the way, we’ll make recommendations to help you make the most of your trip in and around Croatia, so you know what else to add to your trip.

So here’s a 2-week road trip to discover the best of Croatia:

Day 1: Zagreb

On the first day of your 14-day Croatia trip, explore Croatia’s capital, Zagreb.

The city center of Zagreb is easily accessible on foot in a day, so you won’t necessarily need a car. If you do drive, Zagreb is a relatively car-friendly city, so parking is not a problem.

In one day in Zagreb, the following sights are worth a visit:

Zagreb Cathedral

The Cathedral of Zagreb is the most dominant building in the city, with its impressive Gothic architecture and tall spires.

The nearby Monument of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the surrounding buildings are also an interesting sight.

Jelačić Square

In the heart of Zagreb, you’ll find this vibrant main square, with cafés, shops and restaurants. The statue of Ban Josip Jelačić in the center of the square is the symbol of the city, a reminder of the Croatian national hero.

Lotrščak Tower

Located in Zagreb’s old town, this historic tower boasts one of the best views of the city. Every day at noon, a cannon is fired, marking the time, a tradition that visitors can witness.

Near the tower is a small square, called “Panoramic View-Point of Zagreb City” on Google Maps. From here you can also get a stunning view of the city.

Dolac Market

Located just steps from Ban Jelačić Square, is a bustling open-air market and a vital part of Zagreb’s daily life. Here, local farmers and vendors offer a variety of fresh produce, meats, and dairy products under iconic red umbrellas. Visitors can sample local delicacies, engage with friendly vendors, and even find unique handmade products.

Maksimir Park

Located in the eastern part of Zagreb, Maksimir Park stands as the city’s largest public park. Visitors can explore winding pathways, discover charming wooden bridges, and relax by the peaceful ponds.

Adding to its charm is the Zagreb Zoo, housed within the park, making Maksimir a delightful spot for both nature lovers and families.

As Maksimir Park is a little further away from the other attractions, we only recommend it if you have enough time to get there by car or public transport.

Once you’ve fully explored the Croatian capital, prepare yourself for the next days, as our itinerary will lead you into the countryside.

Where to stay in Zagreb

In Zagreb, the following are the best accommodation options to book:

Day 2: Plitvice Lakes

On day two, continue your journey from Zagreb to one of Croatia’s most popular destinations, Plitvice Lakes.

Zagreb – Plitvice Lakes National Park (Plitvička Jezera): 2 h 20 min, 140 km

On the way, if you have time, stop for a short break in the village of Rastoke and enjoy the beautiful riverside scenery.

Plitvice Lakes

The Plitvice Lakes National Park is a wonder in Croatia and is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This stunning natural treasure offers a series of 16 shimmering lakes that flow into each other, surrounded by dense green forests. The lakes showcase various shades from turquoise to emerald green, creating breathtaking waterfalls.

Well-maintained paths and wooden bridges allow visitors to closely admire the natural beauty, while the abundant flora and fauna provide interesting exploration opportunities.

Several routes are available at Plitvice Lakes. Since there is limited time to explore Plitvice Lakes in our 14-day Croatia itinerary, choose one of the quicker routes.

According to the national park’s website, shorter routes take 2–3 hours, while medium routes take 4–6 hours. It is worth choosing one of these, especially the 4-6 hour routes. That way, you can see pretty much everything worth seeing from the lakes and waterfalls and still fit it into your daily schedule.

After you’re done exploring the Plitvice Lakes, head on to Zadar in the evening. You’ll have to drive on a main road for a short stretch, but soon you can continue on the highway.

Plitvička Jezera – Zadar: 1 h 50 min, 135 km

Spend the night in Zadar.

Where to stay in Zadar

We recommend the following accommodations in Zadar:

  • Dedaj Resort – Villa Tina: 5-star apartment hotel with a stunning pool overlooking the sea, stylish interiors, right next to Borik Beach, an ideal choice for families
  • Falkensteiner Hotel & Spa Iadera: 5-star hotel in Petrčane, north of Zadar, with wonderful swimming pools, spa, sports fields and terrace with sea view
  • La Vista Suites: 4-star apartment hotel near Kolovare Beach, with a wonderful rooftop pool and sea views
  • Art Hotel Kalelarga: Elegant 4-star hotel in the old town of Zadar, close to the main attractions
  • Apartments & Rooms Mareta Exclusive: 4-star apartments at affordable prices, in the old town of Zadar, close to the main attractions
  • Hotel A’mare: Affordable 3-star hotel in the center of Zadar

Day 3: Zadar

On the third day of our Croatian road trip, we focus on exploring the main attractions of Zadar.

We list some of the best things to do for a great day in Zadar:

Sea Organ

This unique architectural work transforms the movement of the waves into music, creating a special, meditative atmosphere. It is worth listening to the sounds generated by the waves while walking along the promenade or even sitting on the steps of the organ.

The Greeting to the Sun

Located next to the Sea Organ, this solar-powered installation greets the sun at sunset with a magical light show, creating a stunning spectacle.

Roman Forum

The ancient center of Zadar is located in the heart of the city and preserves the remains of Roman civilization. The Roman Forum was an important part of city life and ruins of ancient buildings can still be seen.

Church of St. Donatus

Built in the 9th century, the circular church is one of Zadar’s best known and most important monuments.

It is located right next to the Roman Forum and is well worth a look.

The Bell Tower beside them is also one of the most famous buildings in the old town of Zadar.

If you still have some time left in Zadar, check out the city’s best beaches as well.

Day 4: Krka National Park

On the 4th day of our Croatia road trip, we discover another world-famous national park, Krka National Park.

Zadar – Krka National Park: 1 h, 90 km

Krka National Park is often compared to the Plitvice Lakes, as both are unique natural spectacles made up of lakes and waterfalls.

However, exploring Krka can be more challenging as the park is extensive and comprises numerous locations. So you should think carefully about what fits into your daily itinerary.

If you want to experience the best of Krka, the first place to go is Lozovac. After parking and purchasing your ticket, you can either walk or take a bus to reach the waterfalls and lakes. Be prepared for a steep descent if you choose to walk, and ensure you wear comfortable shoes.

One of the park’s primary highlights is Skradinski Buk, an impressive, large waterfall. Though it was once possible to swim in the waters below, this is now prohibited. You can still get very close to the falls, thanks to the well-kept paths and wooden walkways, making it worthwhile to explore and spend a few hours there.

If you have extra time, you might also visit Roški Slap, a smaller yet stunning waterfall located on the park’s northern side, and Visovac Island, situated in the park’s center and home to a historic monastery. The best viewpoint for the island is marked as “Viewpoint Visovac Monastery” on Google Maps, and offers a quiet spot for photography.

These additional attractions are accessible by car, but given the driving distances involved, it’s important to thoughtfully plan and decide whether to incorporate them into your Day 4 itinerary.

In addition, it is important to mention that there are different types of entrance tickets to Krka National Park, with each entrance having a different ticket. It is worth considering in advance whether you want to visit more than one place or whether you will be satisfied with just one place, you can buy your ticket accordingly.

After finishing your exploration of Krka, it’s worth continuing on to Split, Croatia’s second-largest city.

Krka National Park – Split: 1 h, 85 km

Where to stay in Split

In Split, we recommend the following accommodations:

  • Hotel Ambasador: a five-star hotel with one of the best views of the city. If you can afford it, this is the best choice
  • AC Hotel by Marriott Split: a modern four-star hotel a little further from the old town with fantastic views of the city
  • Lanterna Rooms: four-star guest house in the heart of the old town, with very cozy interiors
  • Luxury Rooms Floramye: affordable guest house close to the old town and the beach

Day 5: Split

The fifth day of the two-week itinerary is dedicated to Split and its surroundings.

Split

Split, the second-largest city in Croatia, is a lively coastal city packed with historical and natural wonders.

It’s worth spending half a day or a whole day wandering around the city center of Split, exploring the historic sights of the old town. The historic attractions are all close together, within a short walk.

The standout sites include:

Diocletian’s Palace

This 3rd-century palace is at the heart of Split, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a remarkable example of Roman architecture and truly a must-visit in Split.

Saint Domnius Cathedral

The Saint Domnius Cathedral, set on the site of a former Roman emperor’s tomb, is known for its towering bell tower. Visitors can explore its ancient walls and interior art, making it a significant landmark in Split’s history.

Venetian Tower and Trg braće Radić Square

When walking around the old town of Split, it is worth stopping to admire the 114th century Venetian Tower and the interesting square in front of it.

Also, if you have time left, don’t miss the following opportunities Split has to offer:

Marjan Forest Park

At the city’s western tip, you can discover this huge park. It’s particularly recommended for the exceptional panorama that you can enjoy while walking in the park.

Our favorite place here is Viewpoint to Marjan, featuring a large viewing platform. It offers a breathtaking view of Split’s old town, the sea, and the surrounding mountains.

Beaches in Split

Split also has several famous beaches.

If you are looking for beaches in Split, Kasjuni Beach, Žnjan City Beach and Bacvice Beach are worth a visit.

Shopping in Split

If you are interested in shopping, Split has the best places to do it.

For shopping in the city, we recommend the Mall of Split or City Center one Split.

 

Spend the evening in Split, enjoying the city’s coastline, the delicious Dalmatian dishes and the vibrant nightlife.

Day 6: Trogir, Omis

Day 6 of our 14-day Croatia itinerary focuses on other highlights around Split.

There are two other towns around Split that we think are real must-sees, Trogir and Omis. So it’s worth driving to the two towns in either direction and taking at least a couple of hours to see their main sights.

Trogir

Trogir is a captivating UNESCO World Heritage-listed town situated on a small island, which is connected by bridges to both the Croatian mainland and the island of Čiovo.

Just a 35-minute drive from Split, Trogir’s old town mesmerizes visitors with its preserved medieval architecture, quaint cobbled streets, and a scenic waterfront.

While exploring Trogir, make sure to visit St. Lawrence’s Cathedral, as well as the Church and Monastery of St. Dominic, located right on the waterfront — undeniably the town’s most photogenic spot.

Omis

The historic center of Omis itself is worth a stroll, looking around the old-style houses, the banks of the Cetina and the coast. However, its most famous attraction is the Mirabela Fortress.

Mirabela Fortress

Mirabela Fortress (Peovica), the main attraction of Omis, is a 13th century fortress with breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea, the city and the Cetina River. Steps lead up from the historic part of the town, and you can continue your journey after paying a few euros for admission. The stairs are not long, however, and there are plenty of places to stop and take photos. The fortress at the top and the panorama from the small terraces along the way are well worth the effort.

In addition, optionally, if you have a little more time, or if you want to skip one of the previously recommended places, day 6 is an excellent opportunity to take a ferry from Split to one of the nearby islands, especially Hvar or Brač.

However, it is important to consider that even the shortest excursions take almost a full day on these islands.

Spend the night in Split and prepare for the next days.

If you decide to extend your trip and take a short excursion to neighboring countries, here you have the opportunity to travel to Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Visiting Mostar in this way requires about one or two extra days.

Day 7: Dubrovnik

In the morning, head to the world-famous city of Dubrovnik, perhaps one of the most iconic places in Croatia.

Split – Dubrovnik: 3 h, 230 km

On the way, you can stop for a break at the rest area in front of the Pelješac Bridge, where you can enjoy a fantastic view of the new bridge that connects two parts of Croatia. In the past, the only way to get to Dubrovnik was to cross the Bosnian-Herzegovinian border, but with the bridge opened in 2022, this is no longer necessary.

Spend the afternoon exploring Dubrovnik.

Dubrovnik, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a stunning coastal city in Croatia known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has a rich history, dating back to the 7th century, and offers a plethora of attractions for tourists to explore.

Dubrovnik has always been one of Croatia’s most popular destinations. However, it gained global recognition thanks to the TV series Game of Thrones, with the city serving as a backdrop for many scenes. Fans of the show can enjoy guided tours highlighting the series’ filming locations.

Dubrovnik’s must-see places include:

Old Town

The heart of the city, Dubrovnik’s Old Town is filled with charming cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and vibrant shops and cafes. Be sure to visit the Rector’s Palace and Sponza Palace to get a glimpse of the city’s past.

Stradun

The main street of Old Town, Stradun is a bustling thoroughfare filled with shops, restaurants, and historic sites. Don’t miss the Onofrio’s Fountain and the Church of St. Blaise, both located along this iconic street.

City Walls

One of the city’s most iconic features, the ancient walls offer breathtaking views of both the city and the sea. A walk along the walls is a must-do to fully appreciate the beauty and history of Dubrovnik.

Lovrijenac Fort

Located just outside the city walls, this historic fort offers stunning views of Dubrovnik and the surrounding sea.

Cable car to Mount Srđ

For the best views of Dubrovnik and the Adriatic Sea, take a cable car ride to the top of Mount Srđ. At the summit, you’ll find a panoramic vista that is simply breathtaking.

Banje Beach

After a day of sightseeing, relax and unwind at Banje Beach, located just a short walk from Old Town. With its crystal-clear waters and stunning views of the city walls, it’s the perfect spot to soak up the sun and enjoy the beauty of Dubrovnik.

Spend the night in Dubrovnik or, if you’re looking for cheaper accommodation, in another nearby town.

Where to stay in Dubrovnik

In Dubrovnik, we recommend the following accommodations:

Day 8: Dubrovnik

The 8th day of our two-week itinerary also focuses on Dubrovnik, so you can continue discovering the city, catching up on what you didn’t have time to do the day before.

On this day, head to the Old Town early in the morning to avoid the crowds. This is a good opportunity to explore the city walls, for example.

Furthermore, if you didn’t have time to visit the mountain lookouts on the previous day, you will have the opportunity to do so on day 8.

Spend the rest of the evening in Dubrovnik, enjoying Dalmatian food, local culture and the fabulous scenery.

 

If you decide to extend your trip and take a short excursion to neighboring countries, here you have the opportunity to travel to Kotor, Montenegro.

If you are looking for an organized trip from Dubrovnik to Kotor, we recommend booking online with GetYourGuide.

Day 9: Back to North Dalmatia

On day 9 of our 14-day trip, it’s time to head back to the northern part of Dalmatia.

The destination on day 9 is basically the island of Pag, but we can offer you a number of places to stop so that you don’t get bored on this day either.

Dubrovnik – Pag Island: 5 h, 400 km

So, depending on the time you have available, here are the places to stop or make a detour on the way:

Korcula

Korcula, a beautiful island in Croatia, is a great destination if you are in the area by car. The island is famous for its crystal clear Adriatic coastline, historical heritage and cultural attractions.

Our personal favorite is the town of Korcula, with its old town, which we think is one of the most photogenic places in Croatia.

As the island can only be reached by ferry, it’s worth checking the ferry timetables before you travel.

There are regular ferry services to Korcula from the town of Orebic on the Peljesac Peninsula, so you only need a short drive to reach the ferry port. It’s worth taking the car by ferry, as you may also need it on the island.

Cetina River Spring

The spring of the Cetina River is a breathtaking spot you might have seen on social media.

It’s a small lake, created by a deep spring, which gives birth to the Cetina River. This small lake is also referred to as”The Eye of the Earth”.

The Cetina River eventually meets the sea at Omis, so perhaps you’ve seen its other end if you’ve visited Omis.

The spring is located near the small village of Cetina, in a quite isolated part of Croatia. You can reach it by car, driving along lengthy and winding roads. Therefore, it’s important to plan your visit carefully to ensure it fits into your day.

Swimming in the lake is not allowed, and the water is known to be very cold. If you’re looking to discover less crowded spots in Croatia and enjoy some peaceful time in nature, a visit to the Cetina River Spring could be a great choice.

Zrmanja Canyon

Zrmanja Canyon is a breathtaking canyon carved by the Zrmanja River, located near the city of Zadar. This destination is a fantastic option for those looking to further immerse themselves in the unique natural wonders of Croatia.

The canyon features pristine blue-green waters, contrasting beautifully with the surrounding reddish rocks and untouched nature, creating a photogenic and serene setting perfect for both capturing memorable moments and unwinding.

Although there are several lookouts in the canyon, for the best views we recommend Pariževačka glavica. Accessible from the A1 highway with a short detour, it is only necessary to drive or walk the last part of the way on a more difficult, rocky section.

Zrmanja Canyon is also one of Croatia’s less frequented tourist destinations, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle.

For those seeking more adventurous activities, some stretches of the Zrmanja River provide opportunities for boat tours, rafting, and kayaking, ensuring a thrilling experience amidst the stunning natural beauty of the area.

If you plan 1 or 2 stops into your journey on day 9, you will arrive on Pag Island in the evening. That’s not a problem, because the next day is dedicated to exploring the island.

Therefore, spend the night on the island of Pag.

Where to stay on Pag Island

Here is a list of the accommodation we recommend:

 

Day 10: Pag Island

As mentioned, day 10 of our two-week itinerary focuses on exploring the Pag Island.

The island of Pag is one of the largest and most popular islands in Croatia and a real tourist paradise, especially in summer.

We included it in our itinerary because of its easy accessibility and because its unique landscapes and fantastic beaches make it an outstanding addition to a Croatia road trip.

In no particular order, we list the best things to see and do on Pag Island:

Pag Bridge

On the way to the island of Pag, you will cross a bridge called Pag Bridge. It’s worth either stopping in the car park next to the road before the bridge, or you can take a left down another road after the bridge, also for a view of the bridge.

In the latter place you will also find old ruins called Tvrđava Fortica.

Town of Pag

In the town of Pag, you can visit the ruins of the preserved castle wall with the Skrivanat Tower and the Benedictine Monastery of St. Margaret.

Additionally, you can find a local history museum in Pag, which presents the island’s history.

Visiting a konoba

The region’s gastronomic specialities are an outstanding experience. When on Pag Island, visit a konoba, a local restaurant, to enjoy local cuisine, including the island’s specialty, the sheep’s cheese called paški sir.

Beaches on Pag Island

Pag Island is easily reachable by car, and due to its distinct shape, it boasts an abundance of beautiful beaches that are worth visiting when in the area.

Among our top picks on Pag are Zrće Beach and Jadra Beach, although the island is home to numerous other fantastic beaches.

A full day is enough time to explore the island of Pag, sample the local cuisine, go to the beach and see some of the sights. You’ll also have some time to relax, so enjoy your day on Pag Island!

It’s worth staying on Pag Island for the night.

Day 11: Rijeka, Istrian peninsula

On the 11th day of the two-week itinerary, we continue on to the popular Istrian peninsula.

The Istria is quite a large area, so due to the limited time available we will highlight only two main destinations, Pula and Rovinj.

Pag Island – Pula: 4 h 20 min, 400 km or 5 h, 260 km

There are two options to get to Pula:

  • Either by car all the way, leaving the island of Pag via the Pag Bridge, taking the A1 and then the A6 highway to Rijeka. This is a longer but faster route.
  • Or take the ferry from the Pag Island to Prizna, from where you can take the E65 along the coast to Rijeka. This is probably a slower route, you have to wait for a ferry, but it is many kilometers shorter.

In both cases, from Rijeka you can reach Pula via the A8 highway.

On the way, we recommend a short stop in Rijeka, Croatia’s third-largest city.

Rijeka

In Rijeka, the main sights are almost all within walking distance of each other, so you can see all the attractions of Rijeka in just a stroll. We recommend the following for a short stopover:

Korzo

Korzo, the city’s main pedestrian street, is full of cafés, shops and restaurants, perfect for a pleasant walk and a taste of the regional dishes.

City Clock Tower

While walking along Korzo, take a look at the city’s famous clock tower.

Trsat Castle

The Trsat Castle, which towers above the city and offers fantastic views of the surrounding area, is one of the most popular attractions in Rijeka. It’s a little further away from the other sights, but well worth a quick visit.

 

Rijeka’s cultural life is also vibrant, with many museums and galleries, including the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art and the Maritime and History Museum.

Furthermore, the city hosts Croatia’s largest carnival every February.

On day 11 you will probably arrive in Pula in the evening, so spend the night in Pula. Next day, continue with exploring the city.

Where to stay in Pula

Day 12: Pula

Day 12 is dedicated to exploring the city of Pula, and if you prefer, you can also have time to go to the beach.

In Pula, it’s worth spending half a day or a day exploring the city center, which has some very interesting historical sights. As most of them are within walking distance of each other, you can easily visit them in a short time.

The main attractions in Pula are:

Pula Arena

The Pula Arena is a huge and impressively preserved Roman amphitheater, one of the most important and well-known sights in the city. Built in the 1st century AD, it is still home to numerous cultural events, concerts and festivals.

Pula Citadel

The Pula Citadel is a historic fortress in the city. It was built by the Venetian Republic in the 17th century and is still in an excellent state of conservation. From the fortress you have a wonderful view of the city and the surrounding sea.

Temple of Augustus

Roman temple dedicated to the Emperor Augustus. Located in the Forum Square.

Arch of the Sergii

This Arch of Victory was built in honor of the Sergii family in the 1st century BC. The Roman monument is one of the city’s main attractions, showcasing Roman architectural style and decoration.

Aquarium Pula

Aquarium Pula is an interactive marine aquarium located in the city’s 19th century fortress. Visitors can learn about the diversity of marine life, including fish and other sea creatures from the Mediterranean and tropical seas.

 

While exploring Pula, you’ll see some other ancient monuments, arches, statues, parks and lots of colorful buildings. If you have time, take a walk along the coast or go for a swim at one of the nearby beaches.

Day 13: Pula, Rovinj

The penultimate day of our two-week itinerary offers a more relaxed schedule, exploring the small town of Rovinj.

Although Rovinj may seem like a remote place, it’s actually overrun by huge crowds of tourists in the summer.

Another thing to know about it is that it is often confused with Piran in Slovenia, and photos of Rovinj are published as if it were Piran. The two towns are really similar, but Rovinj has its own charm.

Let’s also take a look at what Rovinj has to offer as part of a pleasant walk around the town:

Church of Saint Euphemia

The Church of Saint Euphemia, built in the 18th century, is the most prominent symbol of the town of Rovinj. The Baroque church rises high above the city and its tower offers a stunning view of the town and the Adriatic Sea.

Balbi’s Arch

One of the most important historical monuments in Rovinj, located in the old town center. This Baroque-style arch was built in the 17th century.

Park forest Zlatni Rt

Zlatni Rt is a beautiful park forest located south of the town. The park is ideal for nature walks, running or cycling and offers beautiful paths along the coast.

Lim Fjord Panorama Point

Lim Fjord Panorama Point is a lookout point near Rovinj with a magnificent view of the fjord-like strait. Near the viewpoint, you can also find local vendors selling local products.

Unfortunately, the lookout has received several complaints in recent years that the overgrown trees make it difficult to see the landscape clearly, so we recommend it only if you have time to spend in Rovinj.

 

Spend the night in Pula or Rovinj.

Day 14: Back to Zagreb

On the final day of the 14-day Croatia itinerary, we circle back to Zagreb, the starting point of our journey.

Pula – Zagreb: 3 h, 270 km

If there are places in Istria, on the way back, or around Zagreb that you haven’t yet visited, now is your chance.

We also have some suggestions for stops along the way that you may not have thought of:

Pazin Roof and Zarečki Krov waterfalls

On the Istrian peninsula, close to the A8 highway, near the town of Pazin, you will find the Pazinčica River, where you can find several waterfalls. It’s worth stopping for a short detour to see both the Pazin Roof Waterfall, which is closer to the town, and the Zarečki Krov Waterfall, which is a little further away.

Zeleni Vir (Spring)

This small spring is located close to the main road 3, near the village of Skrad. So if you’re on your way back to Zagreb, you can visit it with a short detour. The whole area is worth a hike, as there are several waterfalls, caves and interesting natural formations in the area.

 

Finally, on the last day, our journey takes back to Zagreb, ending the 14-day holiday in Croatia.

In summary, Croatia is one of Europe’s most picturesque destinations with breathtaking scenery, historic towns and beautiful blue sea.

We hope that with this 14-day Croatia itinerary, we have made planning your trip easier and inspired you with the most memorable moments.

However you tailor your itinerary, we are sure that Croatia will provide you with a wonderful experience.

Alternatively, if you’re planning a shorter trip to Croatia and its surroundings, read our next article on a shorter 8-day trip to Croatia!

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