Croatia Grand Journey Self-Drive

Arrive at Pula Airport where our local representative will welcome you and assist with your car hire, providing all necessary information for your departure day. From here, drive to your hotel and check in. Take some time to explore Pula, the largest town on the Istrian peninsula, known for its rich cultural heritage, historical sites, and excellent gastronomy. Overnight in Pula.

After breakfast at the hotel, begin your exploration of Pula. The city is often compared to Rome for its rich Roman heritage, most notably the impressive Roman Amphitheatre, one of the best-preserved in the world. As you wander through the ancient ruins, you can easily imagine the gladiatorial contests that once took place here. For a deeper insight, you may choose to join our optional two-hour guided city tour, which reveals hidden corners and stories of this historic city. Overnight in Pula.

After a leisurely breakfast, check out from your hotel and begin the drive towards Kvarner Bay. En route, stop in Opatija, often called the Adriatic Pearl, to enjoy its charming coastal scenery. The Kvarner Gulf is renowned for its stunning beaches and diverse landscapes, offering a refreshing change of pace. We overnight in the Rijeka, Opatija or Lovran area, placing you within easy reach of the bay’s highlights.

After breakfast, continue your journey towards Šibenik and Biograd na Moru, ideal gateways to the stunning Paklenica and Krka National Parks. We will explore the spectacular waterfalls and scenic landscapes of Krka, and you can enjoy hiking in Paklenica Park. Alternatively, you may choose to book our three-hour guided tour of Krka National Park to experience its breathtaking scenery with a private guide (entrance ticket not included and payable locally). Overnight accommodation will be in the Šibenik or Biograd na Moru area.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before setting out to explore the medieval town of Šibenik. Alternatively, you may choose to visit one of the nearby national parks. We offer an optional three-hour guided tour of Krka National Park, where you can walk among stunning waterfalls and lush landscapes (entrance fee not included). Spend the night in the Šibenik or Biograd na Moru area.

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before checking out and setting off for the Makarska Riviera, a stunning 60-kilometre stretch of coastline along the Dalmatian coast at the foot of the Biokovo mountain range. The drive offers picturesque views and the fresh scents of pine forests, olive groves and fruit trees, immersing you in the Mediterranean landscape. Be sure to visit the Skywalk, a glass walkway in Biokovo Nature Park, for spectacular panoramic vistas. Overnight accommodation is in the Makarska Riviera area.

After breakfast, we continue to Dubrovnik, with recommended stops at the charming coastal towns of Ploče and Neum along the way. Upon arrival in Dubrovnik, you will encounter a striking medieval city rich in cultural heritage. You may choose to explore independently or join our optional two-hour Dubrovnik city tour with a private guide. Alternatively, consider the three-hour Cilipi Folklore tour to experience local customs through traditional song and dance. In the village of Čilipi, we will welcome you with grape brandy and figs, allowing you to browse the market for authentic souvenirs and enjoy Dalmatian music. You might also wish to explore the Pelješac Peninsula, renowned for its wine, or take excursions to the islands of Korčula or Mljet. Overnight in Dubrovnik.

Begin your day with breakfast before exploring Dubrovnik. This remarkable city is encircled by vast cream-coloured stone walls, featuring four gates, three forts, five bastions and 14 square towers. Known as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, Dubrovnik boasts an impressive collection of medieval art and architecture. We take a walk along the city walls, offering stunning panoramic views of the Adriatic coastline and the city’s historic centre. Overnight in Dubrovnik.

After breakfast and check-out, you will drive back to Šibenik. If you haven’t yet visited Krka National Park, you can join our optional guided tour or explore the park’s many hiking trails and scenic paths independently (entrance ticket not included and payable locally). Overnight in Šibenik or Biograd na Moru.

Begin the day with a hearty breakfast before setting off for Plitvice Lakes National Park, one of Croatia’s most remarkable natural treasures and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled within dense forests, the park is renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, stunning lakes, and cascading waterfalls. We will explore the well-maintained trails, taking in the serene beauty and unique landscapes at a relaxed pace. After a day immersed in nature, settle in for a comfortable overnight stay at your chosen hotel near Plitvice.

After breakfast, continue your exploration of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Choose from a variety of hiking trails to fully appreciate the park’s exceptional natural beauty. Alternatively, you may opt for our guided Plitvice National Park tour with an English-speaking guide, offering deeper insight into this remarkable landscape. Spend the night in Plitvice.

Enjoy your final breakfast at Plitvice before driving back to the Kvarner Gulf region. Spend the day at leisure—relax on the beach or savour a variety of Mediterranean dishes at a traditional Croatian restaurant in town. Overnight in the Rijeka, Opatija or Lovran area.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and drive back to Pula along the west coast of Istria. Enjoy the scenic views of the white sandy beaches stretching both north and south. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and spend the remainder of the day at your leisure. Overnight in Pula.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before enjoying a full day at your leisure in Pula. Take the opportunity to relax on the golden sandy beaches, soak up the Mediterranean sunshine, and appreciate the tranquil coastal atmosphere. You might choose to explore the vibrant marine life of the Adriatic Sea, discovering its colourful corals and underwater treasures. Throughout the day, you can make the most of the hotel’s dining options as you unwind and savour the surroundings.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before checking out of your hotel. You will then drive to Pula Airport to return your rental car and prepare for your departure flight, concluding your time in Croatia.