Rovinj, Croatia 14-Day Trip Itinerary

Drive to Rovinj, Croatia

Embark on your scenic car journey from Brussels to Rovinj, Croatia.

The drive is approximately 12-14 hours, so consider an overnight stop or start very early. Enjoy the diverse European landscapes.

Plan for stops and breaks along the way. Consider an overnight stay somewhere in Germany or Austria to break up the drive, especially with kids. Ensure your vehicle is ready for a long journey.

Check-in at Hotel Amarin

Arrive at Maistra Select Family Hotel Amarin, check into your family unit, and settle in.

Take some time to unpack and explore your spacious accommodation.

The hotel is known for being very family-friendly, so don't hesitate to ask staff for recommendations tailored for children.

Explore Hotel Pools & Facilities

Let the kids (and adults!

) unwind after the long drive by enjoying the fantastic pools and amenities at Hotel Amarin. The hotel has various pools suitable for all ages.

Check the hotel's schedule for kids' clubs or planned activities during your stay. Towels are usually provided at the pool.

Family Dinner at Hotel Amarin

Enjoy a relaxed family dinner at one of the hotel's restaurants.

Many options cater to diverse tastes, including child-friendly menus.

Making a reservation might be a good idea, especially for larger families during peak season.

Explore Rovinj Old Town

Wander through the narrow, cobbled streets of Rovinj's charming Old Town.

Visit St. Euphemia's Church for panoramic views and browse local artisan shops. Kids will love the maze-like alleys and gelato shops.

Wear comfortable shoes as the streets can be steep and uneven. St. Euphemia's bell tower offers great views, but there are many stairs. Grab an early lunch at a local restaurant.

Lunch in Old Town

Enjoy a traditional Croatian lunch at one of the many restaurants in Rovinj's Old Town, many with sea views.

Look for restaurants offering fresh seafood or local Istrian pasta dishes.

Afternoon Beach Relaxation

Head back to the hotel's beach area or a nearby family-friendly beach to relax, swim, and build sandcastles.

The hotel has direct access to a beautiful stretch of coastline.

Bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water. The sea in Rovinj is typically calm and clear, ideal for children.

Evening Promenade Stroll

Enjoy a leisurely walk along Rovinj's vibrant waterfront promenade, watching the fishing boats and enjoying the sunset.

Many cafes and ice cream parlors line the promenade, perfect for an evening treat.

Dinner at a Local Konoba

Experience authentic Croatian cuisine at a 'konoba' (traditional tavern) outside the immediate hotel vicinity for a change of scenery.

Ask hotel staff for recommendations for family-friendly konobas known for local specialties.

Morning at Hotel Amarin

Enjoy a relaxed morning at the hotel.

Kids can participate in planned activities, visit the playground, or spend more time at the pools while adults relax by the sea.

Check the hotel's activity schedule for children's programs, which often include arts and crafts, games, or sports.

Lunch at Hotel Restaurant

Have a convenient and tasty lunch at one of the Hotel Amarin's on-site restaurants before your afternoon adventure.

Dolphin Watching Rovinj

Embark on a memorable boat trip to witness energetic dolphins in their natural habitat.

Experienced guides accompany the journey, making it an exciting experience for the whole family.

Book in advance, especially for early July. Bring a light jacket, even in summer, as it can get breezy on the water. Times vary based on sunset, so confirm departure.

Sunset Walk & Ice Cream

After the boat trip, enjoy a beautiful sunset walk along the harbor, perhaps grabbing an ice cream cone as a treat.

The views of Rovinj's Old Town lit up at sunset are stunning.

Casual Pizza Dinner

Opt for a casual and kid-friendly pizza dinner at a local pizzeria in Rovinj.

Pizza is a popular choice and a reliable hit with kids. Many pizzerias offer outdoor seating.

Explore Punta Corrente Park

Visit the beautiful Punta Corrente (Golden Cape) Forest Park, a protected natural area perfect for walking, cycling, and enjoying nature.

It features lovely trails and secluded coves.

The park is free to enter and offers stunning views and a tranquil environment. It's a short drive or pleasant walk from your hotel.

Rent Bicycles for the Family

Rent bicycles for the family (including child seats or smaller bikes for kids) to explore the park's trails more extensively.

There are several rental shops near the park entrance or at the hotel.

Check for family packages or discounts when renting multiple bikes. Helmets are usually available.

Picnic Lunch in the Park

Enjoy a leisurely picnic lunch amidst the greenery of Punta Corrente Park.

Pack sandwiches, fruits, and drinks from a local supermarket.

There are many shaded spots perfect for a family picnic. Remember to take all your trash with you.

Family Bike Ride through Park

Cycle along the well-maintained paths of Punta Corrente Park, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful coastal views. There are routes suitable for various skill levels.

Stick to designated cycling paths. The park is relatively flat in most areas, making it ideal for families.

Hotel Wellness or Playtime

Return to the hotel for some relaxation.

Adults might enjoy the wellness area while kids engage in supervised play or a final splash in the pool.

Check the age restrictions for the wellness area. The hotel likely has dedicated play areas for children.

Hotel Themed Dinner (if available)

Enjoy a themed dinner or buffet night at the hotel, if available, which can be an entertaining option for families.

Check the hotel's dining schedule upon arrival for special themed nights or children's entertainment options.

Morning Beach or Pool Play

Spend the morning enjoying the hotel's beach or pools one last time before a potential excursion. This allows for a relaxed start to the day.

Take advantage of the hotel's proximity to the sea for an early swim.

Ferry to St. Katarina Island

Take a short ferry ride from Rovinj's port to the nearby St.

Katarina Island. It's known for its lush vegetation, walking paths, and beautiful beaches, providing a tranquil escape.

Ferries run frequently during peak season. Tickets can be purchased at the port.

Explore St. Katarina Island

Walk around St.

Katarina Island, discover its small coves, enjoy a swim in the clear waters, and perhaps have lunch at one of the island's eateries.

The island is small enough to explore on foot. Bring water shoes for rocky beaches.

Return Ferry to Rovinj

Take the ferry back to Rovinj from St.

Katarina Island.

Check ferry schedule for return times.

Souvenir Shopping in Rovinj

Grab some last-minute souvenirs or gifts from the shops in Rovinj's Old Town or along the promenade.

Look for local Istrian products like olive oil, truffles, or handmade crafts.

Farewell Dinner in Rovinj

Enjoy a special farewell dinner at a restaurant in Rovinj, savoring the last evening in this beautiful Istrian town.

Choose a restaurant with a nice ambiance to celebrate your family's first leg of the Croatian adventure.

Drive to Plitvice Lakes

Begin your scenic drive from Rovinj, Istria, towards the Plitvice Lakes National Park area.

Enjoy the changing landscapes as you head inland. Remember to take comfort stops for the kids.

The drive is approximately 3.5 to 4 hours. Consider stopping for lunch halfway, perhaps in Karlovac.

Hotel Check-in & Lunch

Arrive at your accommodation near Plitvice Lakes.

Check in, settle the family, and have a relaxed lunch at the hotel restaurant or a nearby local eatery.

Afternoon Village Walk

Enjoy a gentle stroll around the local village or the area surrounding your guesthouse.

Let the kids stretch their legs and get a feel for the tranquil environment before your park exploration.

Family Dinner

Enjoy a traditional Croatian dinner at a local 'konoba' (tavern) known for regional specialties.

Lower Lakes Exploration (Part 1)

Head to Entrance 1 of Plitvice Lakes National Park to explore the stunning Lower Lakes.

Witness the Veliki Slap (Big Waterfall) and walk along the wooden boardwalks through turquoise lakes and cascading falls. Use hiking path C or H for a good overview.

Wear comfortable walking shoes. Bring water and snacks. Consider buying tickets online in advance to save time and ensure entry, especially in July. The path is generally suitable for children, but some areas may have uneven surfaces.

Picnic Lunch by the Lakes

Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the natural beauty of the park.

There are designated picnic areas or cafes where you can buy food.

Packing your own lunch can save time and money, and is often preferred with kids. Look for a scenic spot!

Lower Lakes Exploration (Part 2)

Continue exploring the Lower Lakes, perhaps taking a panoramic boat ride across Kozjak Lake (included in the ticket) to appreciate the scale and beauty of the park from a different perspective.

Ice Cream Treat

After a long day of walking, treat the family to some refreshing ice cream at one of the park's kiosks or a cafe.

Relaxing Dinner

Head back to your accommodation for a relaxing evening and dinner after a full day of exploration.

Upper Lakes Exploration

Today, focus on the Upper Lakes, known for their wider, more numerous cascades and lush greenery. Take the park's electric boat across Kozjak Lake to access this section and use the panoramic train to navigate between stops. Path K is a good option for families.

Entrance 2 is often quieter. The electric boat and panoramic train rides are included in your park ticket and provide a fun way for kids to see the park.

Lakeside Cafe Lunch

Enjoy lunch at one of the cafes within the park, perhaps near a lake or a waterfall, for a memorable dining experience.

Kids' Nature Challenge

Engage the children with a nature-themed scavenger hunt or a photography challenge to spot different plants, animals, or unique rock formations in the park.

Bring a small notebook and pencil or a camera for each child. This can make the walking more interactive and fun.

Return to Hotel & Relax

Head back to your guesthouse.

Allow for some free time for the kids to play or for everyone to relax before dinner.

Dinner at Guesthouse

Enjoy dinner at your guesthouse or a nearby restaurant, perhaps trying a different local dish tonight.

Visit Rastoke Village

Drive to the charming village of Rastoke, often called 'Small Plitvice' due to its numerous small waterfalls, rapids, and cascades over which the Slunjčica River flows into the Korana River.

Explore the old mills and picturesque houses.

Rastoke is about a 20-30 minute drive from Plitvice Lakes. There's a small entrance fee to some of the private mill areas, or you can just enjoy walking around the village. It's very scenic and less strenuous than Plitvice.

Lunch in Slunj

Have lunch in Slunj, the town where Rastoke is located.

There are several family-friendly restaurants offering local cuisine.

Zip-lining or Horse Riding

For an afternoon adventure, consider an activity like zip-lining at Zip Line Pazi Medo (near Ogi Otok) or family horse riding at a local ranch.

This offers an exhilarating contrast to the peaceful lakes.

Booking in advance is highly recommended for these activities, especially in July. Check age and weight restrictions for zip-lining. Horse riding typically caters to various experience levels.

Evening Relaxation

Return to the guesthouse to unwind and enjoy some downtime.

Perhaps play a family board game or simply relax.

Farewell Plitvice Dinner

Enjoy a special dinner on your last evening in the Plitvice area, reflecting on your nature adventures.

Morning Lakeside Stroll

Enjoy a leisurely morning stroll around a nearby lake or forest path, perhaps at Lake Korana or a less crowded section of the park (if accessible without re-entering the main gates).

Souvenir Shopping

Browse local shops for souvenirs, honey, or traditional Croatian crafts to remember your trip to Plitvice.

Pack & Check Out

Return to your accommodation to finish packing and check out.

Ensure nothing is left behind.

Casual Lunch

Have a final casual lunch in the Plitvice area before beginning your journey towards Split tomorrow.

Afternoon Free / Drive Prep

Spend the afternoon at leisure, perhaps visiting a viewpoint you missed or preparing for the next leg of your journey to Split.

Scenic Drive to Split

Enjoy a scenic drive from your accommodation near Plitvice Lakes National Park to the coastal city of Split.

The route offers diverse landscapes from the mountainous interior to the stunning Dalmatian coast. Plan for a comfort stop along the way.

Hotel Check-in & Lunch

Arrive at your guesthouse, Bulli Croatia, and check in.

Settle into your family unit before heading out for a leisurely lunch.

Look for local eateries nearby or enjoy the guesthouse's own dining options.

Explore Diocletian's Palace

Immerse yourselves in the ancient heart of Split by exploring Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Wander through its narrow streets, discover hidden courtyards, and visit the Peristyle and St. Domnius Cathedral.

The palace is a living monument with shops, cafes, and residents. Wear comfortable shoes for walking on ancient cobblestones. Entrance to the Cathedral/Bell Tower is optional and ticketed.

Riva Promenade Stroll

Enjoy a relaxing evening stroll along the Riva, Split's iconic palm-lined waterfront promenade.

Grab an ice cream and soak in the bustling atmosphere.

Perfect for people-watching and enjoying the sea breeze.

Dinner in Old Town

Savor traditional Dalmatian cuisine at one of the many family-friendly restaurants within or around Diocletian's Palace.

Ferry to Brač Island

Head to Split's main ferry port and take a public ferry to Supetar on Brač Island, a journey offering beautiful views of the Adriatic Sea.

Check Jadrolinija ferry schedules in advance and consider booking tickets online, especially for a Sunday in July.

Travel to Zlatni Rat Beach

Upon arrival in Supetar, take a local bus or taxi to Bol, home of the famous Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn) beach, known for its unique shape.

Zlatni Rat Beach Fun

Spend the bulk of your day enjoying the crystal-clear waters and unique natural beauty of Zlatni Rat beach. Kids can swim, play, and you can relax under the sun. Water sports are often available.

The beach is primarily fine gravel, not sand. Bring beach towels, sunscreen, and water. Facilities and cafes are available.

Return to Supetar

Make your way back from Bol to Supetar to ensure you catch your return ferry to Split.

Ferry Back to Split

Take the ferry from Supetar back to Split.

Dinner near Guesthouse

Enjoy a more casual dinner near your guesthouse after a full day of island adventure.

Marjan Hill Park Forest

Take a pleasant walk or hike up Marjan Hill, Split's green oasis.

Enjoy panoramic views of the city, the sea, and nearby islands from various viewpoints. There are playgrounds and shaded paths suitable for families.

Start near the Old Town (e.g., from the Varoš neighborhood) or take a local bus. Bring water and hats.

Casual Lunch in Varoš

Descend from Marjan Hill into the charming Varoš neighborhood and find a local konoba (tavern) for a traditional, relaxed lunch.

Bačvice Beach Relaxation

Head to Bačvice Beach, Split's most famous sandy beach, popular with locals and known for its shallow waters, perfect for children.

Relax, swim, or try a game of 'picigin' (a local beach game).

It can get quite crowded in July. Cafes and changing facilities are available.

Souvenir Shopping

Spend some time browsing local shops in the Old Town or along the Riva for souvenirs and gifts to remember your Croatian adventure.

Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a special farewell dinner to celebrate your memorable family trip to Croatia.

Last Croatian Breakfast

Enjoy a final breakfast at your guesthouse or a local bakery, savoring some last Croatian pastries and coffee.

Pack & Check-out

Finish packing your belongings and check out from Bulli Croatia.

Begin Return Journey to Brussels

Start your long drive back towards Brussels.

This will be a multi-day journey, so plan your first overnight stop in Slovenia, Austria, or Germany, depending on your desired pace.

Ensure your car is fueled, and snacks and entertainment are ready for the kids. Plan for multiple stops for meals and rest. Safe travels!