Top Road Trips in Croatia: Explore the Heart of the Adriatic

With a glorious Adriatic coastline that reveals one beauty spot after another for more than 1770km (1100 miles), it’s little wonder that Croatia has become one of Europe’s most popular destinations for a road trip. Away from the coast-hugging and serpentine Adriatic Highway, scintillating back routes lead to national parks, dramatic mountains, medieval hilltop towns, and seemingly endless olive groves and vineyards.

Here are some of the best road trips in Croatia that take you right to the country’s heart—allowing ample room for detours and exploring within the region.

1. The Istrian Triangle

Best Road Trip for Food Lovers
Opatija–Pula; 166km (103 miles); allow 7 days

The heart-shaped peninsula of Istria in Croatia’s northwest is home to gastronomic treasures, including renowned truffles, cheeses, wine, lamb, seafood, and prosciutto, to name just a few local delicacies. From the elegant town of Opatija overlooking the Kvarner Gulf, take the two-lane highway hugging the Mirna River and drive through truffle-laden forests surrounding the hilltop town of Motovun.

Proceed to Poreč, famed for its UNESCO-recognized 6th-century Euphrasian Basilica, and then journey down the coast via the picturesque Limski Kanal, known for mussels and oysters. Continue to Rovinj with its cobbled streets framed by pastel-colored buildings before reaching Vodnjan, celebrated for its world-class olive oil, and finally Pula, home to the impressive Roman amphitheater and the Temple of Augustus.

Detour: After visiting Motovun or Pula, venture into the center of the Istria peninsula to Pazin, known for its 100m-deep chasm that inspired Jules Verne’s Mathias Sandorf.

2. Croatia’s National Parks

Best Road Trip for Natural Wonders
Plitvice Lakes National Park–Krka National Park; 354km (220 miles); allow 7 days

Begin at Plitvice Lakes National Park, arguably Croatia’s most famous attraction, and uncover the country’s natural beauty across five national parks. Stroll along wooden walkways connecting Plitvice’s shimmering lakes and hidden rivers.
Experience panoramic views at Northern Velebit National Park, famous for its cooler ridge-top breezes and stunning Adriatic sunsets.

From mighty peaks, travel towards the dramatic landscapes of Paklenica National Park before indulging in the island-hopping vibe at Kornati National Park, which protects a stunning 89 islands from the Kornati archipelago. Conclude your adventure at Krka National Park, known for its breathtaking waterfalls and fragile ecosystem.

3. Adriatic Highway: Zadar to Split

Best Road Trip for Roman History and Sweeping Views
Zadar–Split; 163km (101 miles); allow 6 days

This drive through the northern half of Croatia’s Dalmatia region showcases incredible ancient ruins alongside mesmerizing Adriatic views. Start at Zadar, filled with UNESCO-listed defensive walls and Roman heritage, then head to Šibenik, known for its 16th-century St James’ Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Continue the journey to Trogir, recognized for beautifully preserved structures from the 13th to 15th centuries, culminating in the impressive Diocletian’s Palace in Split.

Detour: Complete your architectural tour by taking a ferry from Split to Brač Island, where the limestone used for many notable buildings in the region was quarried.

4. Journey Through Castle Country

Best Road Trip for Sheer Romance
Senj–Čakovec; 308km (191 miles); allow 5 days

The castle-rich corridor along Croatia’s northern edge was once a domain for noble families. Begin in Senj, where the impressive 16th-century Nehaj Castle overlooks the sea, then travel northwest to Ozalj Castle, perched above the Kupa River. Stop off in Zagreb to enjoy one of Europe’s most walkable cities, blending its medieval Upper Town with the leafy Lower Town.

Continue north to Trakošćan Castle, a 14th-century masterpiece, and move on to Varaždin, known for its baroque architecture and rich culture before concluding your journey in Čakovec, which is home to the lavish Zrinski family estate.

5. A Slavonian Exploration

Best Road Trip for Gastronomy Lovers
Požega–Ilok; 206km (128 miles); allow 4–5 days

The fertile farmland of Slavonia, nestled between the Sava, Drava, and Danube rivers, has been the nation’s breadbasket for ages. Traverse this culturally rich area, starting in wine-centric towns like Požega and Kutjevo, before visiting cherished small towns such as Đakovo, home to a 19th-century neo-Romanesque cathedral, and Osijek with its 18th-century citadel.

Experience the beauty of Kopački Rit Nature Park, one of Europe’s largest wetlands, then continue to Vukovar and Ilok, perched beside the Danube river near the Serbian border.

6. Adriatic Highway: Southern Dalmatia

Best Road Trip for Knockout Coastal Scenery
Split–Popovići; 254km (158 miles); allow 6 days

The Adriatic Highway, or Jadranska Magistrala, runs along the Croatian shoreline, with the stretch between Split and Dubrovnik being particularly celebrated. Experience breathtaking cliff-top views and winding turns that showcase the islands of Brač, Vis, and Korčula below.

At Drvenik, consider taking a 15-minute ferry to venture to the lesser-known eastern tip of Hvar Island. After enjoying local delicacies such as Ston oysters and Plavac Mali wine on the Pelješac peninsula, drive over the new Pelješac Bridge before visiting the historic city walls of Dubrovnik, and finally continue south to the rustic Konavle region, famous for its vineyards and secluded beaches.

7. A Kvarner Island Odyssey

Best Road Trip for Mixing Culture and Beach Life
Rijeka–Jablanac; 130km (81 miles); allow 4 days

Rijeka, Croatia’s third-largest city, is more than just a point of embarkation for island-hopping in the Kvarner Gulf. Combining exquisite Habsburg architecture with a lively atmosphere, Rijeka boasts an array of cultural attractions, earning it the title of European Capital of Culture in 2020.

After visiting Trsat Castle, drive over the bridge to the island of Krk, exploring its ancient town and relaxing on its sun-kissed beaches. From there, take the ferry to beautiful Rab Island, home to pristine sandy beaches and charming architecture, before returning to the mainland at Stinica and concluding the journey at Jablanac, with its stunning cliffs and tranquil inlets.

Tips for Driving in Croatia

Croatia is a relatively straightforward destination for those looking to embark on a driving adventure. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:

• The motorways are subject to tolls, easily payable by card or cash.
• Adhere to speed limits! On motorways, speeds vary between 110km/h (68mph) and 130km/h (80mph). In built-up areas, stick to 50km/h (31mph).
• Alcohol limits are lower than in some countries: 0.05% for private vehicle drivers, and zero for those under 24.
• Note that police can issue on-the-spot fines for traffic offenses and may hold onto your passport until the fine is settled.

This article was first published on Jun 3, 2021, and last updated on Mar 16, 2024.