Every visitor should make time for a road trip through Croatia. Overall, America has lovely urban centers, stunning natural landscapes, and intriguing historical sites.

You should have little trouble navigating the nation if you rent a car. It's also the most efficient strategy for having a great time. To help you better organize your time, we have included an example schedule for your review.

It makes sense to begin your journey in Dubrovnik, in the south, then make your way north. You can also perform the trip backward. It's planned to minimize travel time between places so that you may see more of Croatia in less time.

Dubrovnik

You may pick up a rental car at the airport in Dubrovnik, or you can choose from several agencies within the city itself. However, a car is unnecessary throughout your time in Dubrovnik. The city is ideal for strolls. Starting in this historic village on the Adriatic Sea, which is famous as a filming set for several scenes in "Game of Thrones," is a great idea.

Just inside the city's original walls is where you'll find the Old Town, where you may spend some time exploring. Take a guided tour and discover the city's rich history and how it inspired the hit HBO series, Game of Thrones.

Seeing the Old Town and the beautiful waterways beyond the old walls will take at least two full days in Dubrovnik. Visiting Lokrum island is a great way to take in the scenery and learn about the area's rich history. There is a Franciscan convent and great swimming here.

Split

Split is around 143 miles north of Dubrovnik. Driving these three hours will transport you to a different atmosphere in Croatia. The city's Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, makes it a great place to visit.

The palace was formerly the residence of a Roman emperor in the late 3rd century; today, in addition to the ancient remains, it is home to a wide variety of eateries and retail establishments. Visit some of the stunning Adriatic islands on a day trip from Split.

You may take a ferry to the nearby islands of Hvar, Vis, Korcula, and Bra. The islands of Bra and Vis are close enough to Split to be visited in a single day. Visiting Hvar and Korula requires more time and effort, so you should book a hotel for the night.

Zagreb

The capital of Croatia is greatly undervalued. Zagreb is about three hours away by car from Zadar, and it's packed with interesting attractions. Don't miss out on seeing St. Mark's Cathedral and the Museum of Broken Relationships! Plitvice National Park is a must-see located about midway between Zadar and Zagreb. Make time to enjoy the beautiful lakes with a short pit stop.

Poreč

You'll begin your exploration of the Istria region of Croatia in the city of Pore. It's a great site to set up a tent and spend some time at the beach, making it a popular summer vacation spot. The stunning Euphrasian Basilica and magnificent mosaics may also be seen in Pore. The three-hour trip is well worth it.

Rovinj

Just 30 minutes south of Pore lies the fishing port of Rovinj. You may stop here for lunch on your way to Pula, but you should give this place a whole day. The historic district of Rovinj is among the most attractive in all of Slovenia.

The city's setting on the lake is stunning, and the meandering maze of cobblestone streets contributes much to the city's irresistible appeal. Go to the top of St. Euphemia's church for a birds-eye perspective of the area. As you soar over Rovinj, you'll take in the city's vibrant glory.

Pula

Pula, about 30 minutes south of Rovinj, is an undiscovered treasure in Croatia. Plenty of old remains, including one of the world's best surviving Roman arenas. Two days in Pula are well spent because of the excellent Croatian wine.

Visit a winery and try the world's finest red wines—Istrian Malvasia. As the main city in the area, Pula serves as a major gateway for visitors to the region, with a wider variety of dining and lodging options in addition to the many popular sights.

It's possible to spend a few days in Pula and then travel to Porec and Rovinj on day excursions if you're pressed for time. There's a lot to see, but every city on our list is well worth your time.