9-Day Family Adventure Road Trip in Croatia

Day 1: Explore Zagreb

Zagreb, Croatia

9:00AM

Breakfast at Dubravkin Put

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at this hidden gem, where the family can enjoy fresh croissants and local cheese platters while surrounded by greenery.
Located in the Upper Town area, easily reachable by foot from central hotels.
HRK150, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Zagreb Zoo

After breakfast, head to the Zagreb Zoo in Maksimir Park, a perfect spot for children to learn about different animals and enjoy the nature trails.
Follow the signs from the park entrance to ensure you find the zoo at the park's northern side.
HRK100, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at La Štruk

Indulge in a family-friendly lunch at La Štruk, known for its traditional Croatian stuffed pastries called štrukli.
Located a short drive or a 20-minute walk from the zoo.
HRK200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Museum of Illusions

Get ready for fun and education at the Museum of Illusions, with interactive exhibits that intrigue both kids and adults.
A 10-minute drive or a 30-minute walk from La Štruk.
HRK120, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Stroll through the Upper Town

Take a scenic walk through Zagreb's Upper Town, exploring St. Mark's Church and enjoying the old-world charm.
Walking distance from the museum; enjoy the views as you stroll.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Vinodol

End your day with a hearty dinner at Vinodol, serving traditional Croatian dishes in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Centrally located in Zagreb, accessible by a short walk.
HRK350, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Nature at Plitvice Lakes

Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel before embarking on a day of adventure in nature.
Prepare for a drive to Plitvice Lakes approximately 2 hours away.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park

Arrive at the national park where the family can explore breathtaking lakes and waterfalls via well-marked trails.
Enter through the main entrance where parking is available nearby.
HRK300, 4 hours

2:00PM

Picnic Lunch in the Park

Enjoy a packed picnic lunch amidst nature, surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Bring a picnic or buy some snacks from park vendors.
HRK150, 1 hour

3:00PM

Boat Tour on Kozjak Lake

Experience a tranquil boat ride on Kozjak Lake, offering a unique perspective of the stunning scenery.
Board the boat at one of the designated stops in the park.
HRK200, 1 hour

5:00PM

Explore more of the park

Take some more time to walk along the wooden pathways and enjoy the serene beauty of the park before heading back.
Follow signs directing to the exit, enjoying nature along the way.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Plitvicka Coliba

Finish your day with a rustic dinner at Plitvicka Coliba offering traditional Croatian cuisine.
Located just outside the park entrance.
HRK250, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Coastal Fun in Rijeka

Rijeka, Croatia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Guest House

Start the day with breakfast at your guest house before driving to Rijeka.
Easy access from your accommodation in Plitvice.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Rijeka

Embark on a scenic drive to Rijeka, which should take about 1.5 hours.
Follow the D1 route heading towards the coast.
N/A, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Trsat Castle

Visit the historic Trsat Castle, which offers stunning views over the city and the Kvarner Bay.
Easily reachable by car or a short taxi ride from the city centre.
HRK50, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Bistro Molo Longo

Enjoy a delicious seaside lunch at Bistro Molo Longo, where fresh seafood is a highlight.
Located along the waterfront, just a 10-minute walk from the castle.
HRK300, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Maritime and History Museum

Discover Rijeka's maritime heritage at the Maritime and History Museum, which offers engaging exhibits for all ages.
A short walk from the bistro along the coast.
HRK70, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Stroll along the Rijeka Promenade

Take a relaxing stroll along the promenade, where you can enjoy street performances and local vendors.
Head down towards the waterfront from the museum.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Conca d'Oro

Wrap up your day with dinner at Conca d'Oro, known for its warm atmosphere and excellent pasta.
A short drive from the promenade, with parking available nearby.
HRK300, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Relaxing Opatija

Opatija, Croatia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a light breakfast at your hotel before setting off for Opatija.
Located about a 30-minute drive from Rijeka.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Stroll the Lungomare Promenade

Begin your day with a scenic walk along the Lungomare promenade, which offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
Access to the promenade begins right near the town centre.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Angiolina Park

Explore the beautiful Angiolina Park, a perfect place for the kids to play and for everyone to relax.
Just a short walk along the promenade.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Roko

Enjoy local dishes for lunch at Roko, where the restaurant's garden setting makes for a delightful meal.
An easy 5-minute stroll from the park.
HRK250, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Relax at the Beach

Spend some time at the local beach, where kids can play in the sand while adults unwind by the water.
Access to the nearest beach is adjacent to Angiolina Park.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore the Villa Angiolina

Visit this historic villa and its lovely gardens for a bit of Croatian culture and history.
Close by from the beach, just a 10-minute walk.
HRK80, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Plavi Podrum

Enjoy a scenic dinner at Plavi Podrum, offering wonderful seafood dishes right on the waterfront.
Located right in Opatija with views over the harbour.
HRK350, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Historical Pula

Pula, Croatia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have breakfast at your hotel before driving to Pula, a journey of about 1.5 hours.
Prepare for your 1.5-hour drive along the scenic coast.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Arrive at the Pula Arena

Visit the impressive Pula Arena, one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world.
Easily accessible from your parking area in Pula's city centre.
HRK100, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Archaeological Museum

Learn about Pula's rich history at the Archaeological Museum, with engaging displays for children.
A short taxi ride or 20-minute walk from the arena.
HRK60, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Konoba Batelina

Enjoy a delightful sea-to-table lunch at Konoba Batelina, known for its fresh seafood.
Located a short drive from the museum.
HRK300, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Temple of Augustus

Explore this ancient temple dedicated to Emperor Augustus, an educational stop for the family.
Just a 10-minute walk from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Walk through the Old Town

Take a leisurely stroll through Pula's Old Town, where you can stop by local shops and cafes.
All within walking distance.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Restaurant Farabuto

Finish the day at Restaurant Farabuto, known for its unique fusion of local and Italian cuisine.
Located in Old Town, easily accessible on foot.
HRK300, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Charming Rovinj

Rovinj, Croatia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with breakfast at your hotel in Pula before heading out to Rovinj.
Enjoy a scenic drive of about 40 minutes along the coast.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Rovinj Old Town

Stroll through the picturesque streets of Rovinj's Old Town, admiring its colourful buildings and vibrant atmosphere.
The Old Town is best explored on foot; park outside the central area.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Church of St. Euphemia

Climb to the top of the bell tower for breathtaking views over the town and the sea.
A short walk from the Old Town centre.
HRK50, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Restaurant La Puntulina

Dine at this lovely seaside restaurant offering fresh seafood and Croatian specialities.
Right on the seafront, a walk from the church.
HRK300, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Rovinj Heritage Museum

Learn more about Rovinj's history and cultural heritage at the museum, located centrally.
A few minutes' walk from the restaurant.
HRK50, 1 hour

4:00PM

Relax at Punta Corrente Park

Unwind in this peaceful park, which offers beautiful trails and spots for the children to play.
A short drive or a pleasant walk away from the museum.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Restaurant Vila Bizzarra

End the day with a lovely dinner at Vila Bizzarra, which offers traditional Istrian dishes.
Access by car; parking is available.
HRK350, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Vibrant Zadar

Zadar, Croatia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before the drive to Zadar, taking approximately 2.5 hours.
Head north along the coastal road.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Arrive at Zadar's Sea Organ

Experience the unique sounds of the Sea Organ, an architectural marvel that produces music through the movement of waves.
Easily accessible by car, with nearby parking.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore the Roman Forum

Visit the historic Roman Forum, which is a great spot for the kids to learn about Roman history right in the heart of Zadar.
Just a short walk from the Sea Organ.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Pet Bunara

Savour a delicious lunch at Pet Bunara, offering traditional dishes and a local twist.
A short walk from the Forum, easily found.
HRK250, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Museum of Illusions

Have fun at the Museum of Illusions in Zadar; families will love the interactive exhibits!
Located in the Old Town area, accessible by foot from the restaurant.
HRK100, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Kolovare Beach

Unwind at Kolovare Beach for some sun and fun in the water before dinner.
A short drive or 20-minute walk from the museum.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Foša

Conclude your day with a meal at Foša, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local wines in a pleasant atmosphere.
Located close to the Old Town in a scenic harbour area.
HRK350, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Adventures at Krka National Park

Krka National Park, Croatia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before setting out for Krka National Park, approximately a 1-hour drive.
Follow the D59 road towards Skradin.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Discover Krka National Park

Spend your morning exploring Krka National Park, witnessing its beautiful waterfalls and lush trails.
Enter the park via the Skradin entrance where parking is available.
HRK200, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Skradinski Buk

Enjoy lunch at a scenic restaurant in the park, overlooking the cascading waterfalls.
Located within the park near the main attractions.
HRK250, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Swim in the Waterfalls

Take a dip in the refreshing water at Skradinski Buk, an exciting experience for kids!
Follow the paths leading to the swimming areas.
Free with entry ticket, 2 hours

4:30PM

Nature Trails Exploration

Spend the late afternoon walking some of the picturesque trails; breathing in the fresh air and enjoying the scenery.
Stay on marked trails for safety.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Restaurant Vila Pinea

Savor dinner at this inviting restaurant, offering a variety of traditional dishes.
Located just outside the park entrance.
HRK300, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Finish in Split

Split, Croatia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with breakfast at your hotel before the drive to Split, approximately a 1.5-hour journey.
Travel along the D1 road towards Split.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Diocletian's Palace

Begin your day in Split with a visit to the historic Diocletian's Palace, which offers fascinating insights into Roman architecture.
Located within the city centre, parking is available nearby.
HRK150, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Konoba Marjan

Delight in a delicious lunch at Konoba Marjan, featuring an array of local dishes in a family-friendly setting.
Situated conveniently close to the palace.
HRK250, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore the Riva Waterfront

Take a leisurely stroll along the Riva, Split's vibrant waterfront where children can enjoy ice cream and vendors.
Accessible from Konoba Marjan within minutes.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Split City Museum

Learn more about Split’s history and culture at the Split City Museum, which has engaging exhibits for kids.
A 10-minute walk from the waterfront.
HRK70, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Bacvice Beach

Wrap up your amazing journey with some relaxation at Bacvice Beach, where kids can play in the sand and shallow waters.
Only a 10-minute drive or 20-minute walk from the museum.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Bokeria Kitchen & Wine

Enjoy a farewell dinner at Bokeria, renowned for its variety of local dishes and family-friendly environment.
Located centrally in Split, easy to find.
HRK400, 1.5 hours
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