Mainland Croatia
Croatia is well known for its pristine coastline and secluded coves with more than 1200 islands and islets scattered along the Adriatic . It also has well preserved fortified towns with narrow stone streets , in contrast to its outstanding natural beauty with mountains and vineyards and UNESCO World Heritage lakes .
Marina , Trogir
7 days / 6 nights Suggested Self-Drive |
ITALY
Motovun
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SLOVENIA
Opatija
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ZAGREB
CROATIA
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Day 1 : Zagreb – Opatija ( 174km ) Explore the old town of Zagreb . It ’ s Gothic , twin-spired Cathedral and 13 th - century St . Mark ’ s Church are an historic treasure , the pedestrianised centre is lined with outdoor cafés , with shops , museums and parks nearby . |
Porec Rovinj
Pula
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Plitvice Lakes |
Day 2 : Opatija Many of the grand belle-epoque waterfront villas from the days of the Austro-Hungarian Empire have now been spruced up . The beaches are rocky , some with secluded coves which are great for swimming . |
ADRIATIC SEA |
Zadar |
BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA |
Day 3 : Opatija – Porec ( 83km ) Head to Istria . Stop enroute in the medieval town of Motovun , overlooking the Mirna river valley . Once in Porec , be sure to visit the 6 th century UNESCO protected Euphrasius Basilica , with its amazing Byzantine mosaics .
Trogir Split
Day 4 : Porec – Pula ( 59km direct ) Take a leisurely drive to Pula stopping at Rovinj , which was once a pretty wee fishing village . The old town is built on an island and the houses are packed tightly together right down to the waterfront .
Day 5 : Pula – Opatija ( 101km ) Visit Pula ’ s well preserved Roman amphitheatre called The Arena . It was built during the 1 st century AD and is the sixth largest in the world .
Day 6 : Opatija – Plitvice Lakes National Park ( 205km ) Head off early for the drive through to the spectacular Plitvice Lakes .
Day 7 : Plitvice Lakes – Trogir ( 241km ). Go walking along the lower lake boardwalk and on through to the upper lakes – there are 16 in total plus 92 stunning waterfalls . Drive onto Trogir , the historic and gorgeous UNESCO protected town .
Continue onto Split & Dubrovnik , take a cruise or go island hopping to discover some of the Adriatic coastline
Rental car : Hertz ( Group B ) from $ 45 per day
Our favourite places to stay :
• Hotel Bristol , Opatija
• Grand Hotel Palazzo , Porec
• Park Plaza Arena , Pula
• Hotel Degenija , Rakovica ( 4 kilometres from Plitvice Lakes )
Highlights worth seeing along the way
Lungomare , Opatija – Take a walk along this seaside promenade which stretches 12kms from Opatija to Lovran .
Motovun , Istria – The town is surrounded by a forest which is rich in white truffles . The season lasts from September to December and is said to be as good as the finest Italian and French truffles .
Rovinj , Istria – Sometimes called ‘ Small Croatian Venice ’ as many houses in the old parts rise up from the water . Discover the Old City ’ s fascinating architecture and pedestrian street , Carera , with its many shops and cafés .
Pula Film Festival – Held in July each year , this is the oldest film festival in Croatia . If you don ’ t mind joining the crowds , generally 23,000 in summer , then it ’ s well worth adding it to your must-do list .
Istrian Pasta – If you ’ re into pasta , then this is adorable . Specialties include pljukanci and fuži , both served with a variety of sauces .
Plitvice Lakes – Arrive early especially in summer to avoid the crowds . We recommend pre-booking tickets / tour , to avoid the queues . It ’ s definitely worth a day visit as they are really beautiful and unique .
Cape Kamenjak , south of Pula – If time allows , be sure to do this bike tour ( with optional wine tasting ) through the very scenic landscape of this protected nature reserve .
Sunset Sea Kayaking , Porec – See the gorgeous city from the water as you paddle along the peaceful waterfront into the setting sun .
Plitvice Lakes , Croatia Truffles , Istria
Lungomare Coastal Walk
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The price guide shown is per car hire based on 7-13 day hire rate . Price shown does not include Earlybird or other discounted offers . Specials and surcharges may apply depending on travel date