Croatia’s Adriatic coastline is one of the most captivating routes in Europe, with azure waters, ancient towns, and stunning natural landscapes. Travelling from Split to Rijeka lets visitors experience Croatia's rich history, culture, and breathtaking scenery. Each stop along the way has its character, from ancient Roman ruins to tranquil beaches and lively promenades. This guide will take you through essential stops on this journey, giving you insight into what makes each destination unique.
Your coastal journey begins in Split, one of Croatia’s most vibrant cities, known for its historical sites and bustling atmosphere. The heart of Split is Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back to the fourth century. This Roman palace is a city within a city, with narrow alleyways leading to lively cafes, artisan shops, and restaurants. Wandering through Diocletian’s Palace, you’ll see a mix of ancient architecture and modern touches that keep Split’s spirit alive and engaging. Make sure to visit the Peristle, the palace’s central square, where you can enjoy a unique experience – live performers bringing history to life with costumes and Roman-inspired music.
The Riva Promenade is another iconic part of Split that captures the city’s essence. This waterfront area features cafes and restaurants, making it an ideal spot to relax, watch the boats go by, and enjoy a morning coffee. The promenade is especially lively at sunset when locals and visitors gather to admire the view. For those wanting a panoramic perspective, take a short walk up Marjan Hill, where you’ll find lookout points offering sweeping views of the city and the Adriatic Sea beyond. Split’s mix of history, culture, and modern charm makes it a perfect starting point for your road trip.
A short drive north of Split brings you to Trogir, a small town that feels like a journey back to medieval times. Known for its well-preserved historical centre, Trogir is a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its blend of Romanesque, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. The town’s most prominent landmark is the Cathedral of St. Lawrence, a 13th-century masterpiece famous for its ornate portal, crafted by the Croatian sculptor Radovan. This portal is a stunning piece of artistry, with intricate carvings that depict scenes from the Bible and images of Croatian life in medieval times.
Wander through Trogir’s narrow stone streets, which open to squares filled with outdoor cafes and shops selling local crafts. The town’s waterfront is particularly charming, with colourful boats docked along the quay and palm trees providing shade to visitors. Trogir's calm atmosphere, fascinating history, and remarkable architecture make it an excellent stop on your journey. Here, you can enjoy a peaceful afternoon wandering through the old town and tasting fresh seafood at one of the many local restaurants by the water.
Continuing north along the coast, Šibenik awaits with its impressive fortresses and unique attractions. Šibenik wasn’t founded by the Romans, unlike many Croatian towns, but by Croats, and it holds a special place in the country’s history. Its crowning glory is St. James Cathedral, a UNESCO-listed masterpiece of stone construction. This cathedral, built entirely without mortar, is a marvel of engineering and artistry, with beautifully carved stone heads representing the Šibenik’s citizens from the 15th century.
Šibenik is also home to several medieval fortresses offering breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. St. Michael’s Fortress is particularly popular, and in summer, it hosts outdoor concerts and events, adding a lively atmosphere to this historic setting. St. Nicholas Fortress is another highlight, located on an island outside the city. Accessible by boat, this fortress offers a fascinating glimpse into Šibenik’s defensive past and provides a unique vantage point for exploring the surrounding area. If you visit in summer, you might be lucky enough to catch one of Šibenik’s famous music festivals, which bring the city to life with live performances and local celebrations.
A short drive inland from Šibenik is Krka National Park, one of Croatia’s most popular natural attractions. Known for its stunning waterfalls, Krka offers visitors a chance to experience the country’s natural beauty up close. The most famous waterfall, Skradinski Buk, is a series of cascading pools where you can swim in the clear, freshwater surrounded by lush greenery. Walking trails wind around the park, taking you past serene rivers, hidden groves, and picturesque viewpoints.
For a unique cultural experience within the park, take a boat ride to Visovac Island, home to a 15th-century Franciscan monastery. This peaceful island provides a glimpse into Croatia’s spiritual heritage and is surrounded by natural beauty. Krka National Park is where you can connect with nature, take a refreshing dip in the waterfalls, and enjoy the tranquillity of Croatia’s countryside.
Zadar is a city that combines ancient history with innovative modern art, making it one of the most intriguing stops along the Adriatic coast. The city’s Roman Forum is a testament to its ancient roots, with ruins dating back to the first century BC. Among the remnants of this Roman settlement is the Church of St. Donatus, a distinctive circular building that dates to the ninth century and stands as one of Zadar’s most iconic landmarks. Its unique design and robust stone construction give it a timeless appeal, drawing visitors interested in history and architecture.
Two of Zadar’s most popular attractions are its modern installations, the Sea Organ and the Sun Salutation. The Sea Organ, a musical instrument played by the waves, creates hauntingly beautiful sounds as the sea pushes air through its pipes. Nearby, the Sun Salutation, a solar-powered art installation, lights up in a vibrant display at sunset, creating a magical end to the day. Together, these installations showcase Zadar’s creative side and make the city a must-visit for those looking to experience something different on Croatia’s coast.
Leaving the mainland briefly, Pag Island is worth a detour for its unique landscapes and famous local cheese. The rocky terrain of Pag, known for its barren landscape, contrasts sharply with the lush greenery found in other coastal areas. The island’s distinct landscape has a wild, almost otherworldly feel, making it an interesting addition to your Adriatic journey. Zrće Beach is one of the island’s main attractions, especially for those seeking a lively beach scene with bars and summer festivals.
Pag is also renowned for its Pag cheese, a type of sheep’s cheese that has become one of Croatia’s culinary treasures. Made from the milk of sheep that graze on the island's salty herbs and grasses, Pag cheese has a distinctive flavour that reflects the island's natural surroundings. Many local restaurants and shops offer this delicacy, letting you taste an authentic slice of Croatian culture.
Rijeka, Croatia’s main port, is a city with a vibrant cultural scene and rich history, making it the perfect final stop on your coastal journey. The city’s standout landmark is Trsat Castle, a hilltop fortress that offers panoramic views over Rijeka and the Adriatic Sea. This medieval castle is a popular spot for events and concerts, providing a dramatic backdrop for cultural gatherings. The castle’s peaceful gardens and historic architecture make it an inviting place to explore, and the views from the top are well worth the climb.
At the heart of Rijeka is the Korzo Promenade, a bustling pedestrian street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Korzo is where locals and visitors come to unwind, shop, and enjoy the city’s lively atmosphere. It’s also a great spot to try local dishes and sample Rijeka’s culinary offerings. Rijeka’s blend of history, culture, and modern life makes it an exciting city to explore, offering a fitting end to your journey along the Adriatic coast.
Renting a car in Croatia is highly recommended to enjoy the Adriatic coastline from Split to Rijeka. Having a vehicle offers the flexibility to explore each destination at your own pace, allowing you to take detours, stop at scenic viewpoints, and visit lesser-known spots not easily accessible by public transportation. Finalrentals Croatia provides a convenient and reliable service, with locations across the country to ensure you can pick up and drop off your car at points that suit your travel plans.
Finalrentals provides a variety of vehicles tailored to suit all types of travellers. Whether you require a compact car for city driving or a spacious vehicle for long-distance journeys, we have options to meet your needs. Our easy-to-use platform makes booking online simple, offering transparent pricing with no hidden fees. When renting a car with Finalrentals, you can customise your journey, stopping wherever and whenever you like to enjoy the breathtaking Croatian landscape.
Exploring Croatia’s Adriatic coastline from Split to Rijeka is an unforgettable journey that combines history, nature, and local culture. With iconic destinations like Split, Trogir, and Zadar, as well as unique stops like Pag Island and Krka National Park, this route offers a rich tapestry of experiences that showcase the beauty and diversity of Croatia. Renting a car ensures you can explore these destinations fully, creating memories that will last long after your trip ends. Croatia’s Adriatic coast awaits – all you need to do is start the journey.
