For our third family road trip in Europe, we decided to push our boundaries and head further than ever before, setting our sights on the stunning coast of Croatia with a plan to explore Slovenia along the way. This adventure would take us over 7,600 kilometers by car, trading museum visits for outdoor thrills, and spending our days relaxing by beautiful beaches and pristine lakes.
We kicked off our journey with a well-thought-out plan: heading straight for the picturesque town of Bled, Slovenia, and making it our base camp for at least a week. This time, we also decided to try something new—using car ferries. It turned out to be a great decision, saving us time and opening up destinations that would have been tough to reach otherwise.
Of course, no road trip is complete without a few bumps along the way! We had our share of mishaps, like the car battery dying unexpectedly and our gas cooker deciding to quit on us. But in the end, those little challenges just added to the adventure. We made sure to plan activities that would challenge and delight everyone in the family, from exploring hidden coves to hiking mountain trails.
It turned out to be an incredible journey for all of us—a perfect mix of spontaneity, discovery, and bonding time. And despite a few setbacks, the memories we made along the way were worth every kilometer!
Road Trip Itinerary and Summary
:: Navigation, reaching Slovenia
Day 1: Lisbon to Madrid
Our plan was to make Lisbon to Barcelona in one day but we figured that 1200km (11h) drive was too much for our first day so we decided to stop at Madrid around 600km (5h30).
We left Lisbon at around 9h, we wanted to leave earlier but we had to make a stop at the dog kennel that only opened at 9:30.
At 13h30 we reached Badajoz and took the opportunity to have lunch in a park near the Acueducto de los Milagros (directions), a roman aqueduct.
The first days of the road trip are always the hardest, we still had 400km to go so we venture to Madrid, finally reaching Madrid region at 17. For our first night we booked a family run at B&B Hotel Madrid Arganda (website) we chose this hotel mainly because of the price, free parking and access to main roads.
Day 2: Madrid to Barcelona
On day two of our trip, we had about 600 km left to drive, so we woke up bright and early with the goal of getting to Barcelona in time to visit Park Güell. Everyone was excited but a little sleepy after the long drive the day before.
The road was easy-going, and we made a nice pit stop in Zaragoza for lunch—nothing fancy, but a welcome break. By around 4 p.m., we rolled into Barcelona and headed straight for the Parking B:SM Travessera de Dalt (directions), which was super convenient for getting to Park Güell quickly.
We spent the late afternoon wandering around Park Güell, taking in Gaudí’s stunning architecture and enjoying the views over the city. The kids loved running around, and we all had that sense of wonder that comes with being in such a unique place. It was the perfect way to end the day.
Afterward, we headed to our hotel, B&B HOTEL Barcelona Sant Cugat (directions). We didn’t stay up too late, though—everyone was pretty tired, and we had to be up early the next day to catch the ferry to Genoa. So, it was an early night for all of us, but we were happy to have had such a memorable day.
Day 3: Overnight Ferry: Barcelona to Genoa
On this day, we took the GNV ferry from Barcelona to Genoa. The ferry was originally scheduled to depart at 12:00, and we needed to be at the port by 8:00. The check-in process was straightforward: we arrived at the port, parked the car in a designated line, and proceeded with check-in (even if you already have your ticket, you still need to complete this step). During check-in, they give you paperwork that you’ll need to show to the staff before boarding the ferry.
Tip: There are several car lines for boarding the ferry. Interestingly, the last cars to arrive are typically the first to embark, but they are also the last to disembark. So if you’re in a hurry to get off the boat, it’s best to arrive early.
This ferry trip saved us a good 860 km of driving and gave us a much-needed rest after two long days on the road from Lisbon to Barcelona. It was nice to have a stress-free day without any more driving ahead of us!
The ferry wasn’t luxurious by any means, and we noticed some areas where the cleaning could have been better. Still, it was perfectly tolerable and definitely worth it. Most of the trip was spent with ocean views and calm waters, which made for a relaxing experience overall.
To keep our costs down, we packed our own food and enjoyed lunch and dinner on the open top deck of the ferry. It was a simple way to make the most of the day, and the fresh sea air was a bonus!
One of the highlights was watching the sunset from the boat at dusk. The sky was painted with beautiful shades of orange and pink, and it felt like the perfect way to end a relaxing day at sea.
Day 4: Genoa to Bled
At around 6 AM, an announcement woke us up, signaling it was time to prepare for disembarkation. We quickly gathered our things and headed to the meeting point, ready to begin the next leg of our journey. By 7:30 AM, we were among the first cars off the ferry, cruising into Genoa Port with excitement.
But little did we know, this day would turn into the most challenging one of our trip. Being the peak of high season, the roads were packed with traffic jams and multiple accidents. What was meant to be a manageable 6.5-hour drive to Camp Šobec in Lesce near Bled, with an expected arrival around 4 PM, dragged on and on. After battling heavy traffic for hours, we didn’t roll into Camp Šobec until 7 PM—tired, hungry, and still needing to set up our tent!
It was a long day, but as we settled into camp, we couldn’t help but laugh. Even the toughest travel days make for some of the best stories!
:: Road Trip in Slovenia – 10 Days
Day 5: Velika Planina
This day, we decided to switch things up and stretch our legs with a family-friendly adventure: a visit to Velika Planina! We packed up the car and headed for the Velika Planina cable car (directions), which whisked us up the mountain. To keep things simple, we opted for the family ticket that covered round-trip rides on both the cable car and the chairlift. It was also the day our Slovenian road trip adventure officially kicked off, and we were about to enjoy 10 amazing days of exploring Slovenia. We couldn’t wait to dive in!
With an 8km hike ahead and some steep sections, we wanted to save our energy—especially since we weren’t sure if our youngest would be up for the whole trek.
The weather couldn’t have been more perfect, with clear skies and a gentle breeze. Our kids were thrilled with the chairlift ride—it was like a mini-adventure of its own! As we glided up the mountain, they giggled and pointed out the views below, and we knew right then that choosing the chairlift was a great call.
When we reached the top, the mountain greeted us with breathtaking views, rolling green hills, and even some friendly cows wandering around! It felt like we had stepped into a postcard. We explored the area a bit, taking in the serene surroundings, before making our way down to the town to start our hike.
The hike itself was absolutely beautiful. We found the perfect spot for a picnic, surrounded by stunning mountain views—an ideal break to refuel and enjoy some time together.
The trail was definitely a bit of a workout, but the changing scenery kept everyone motivated, even our little one! And there were so many animals along the way, from grazing cows to chirping birds, that kept the kids entertained.
After reaching Velika Planina, we took the chance to explore the quaint mountain village, visit the charming church, and capture a few more family photos before heading back down. The ride down on the chairlift and funicular gave us a chance to unwind, enjoy the views one last time, and reflect on the day.
All in all, this turned out to be one of the best days of our trip—a perfect mix of adventure, nature, and quality family time. If you’re planning a visit to Velika Planina with your kids, we can’t recommend this experience enough. It’s challenging but rewarding, with incredible views and plenty of fun along the way!
Day 6: Lake Bohinj
For this trip, we had originally planned to bring our trusty kayak, but it turned out to be way too big for the journey. So, when we spotted an inflatable boat for four people on sale at ALDI, we jumped at the opportunity! It was much more compact and seemed perfect for exploring the beautiful lakes of Slovenia.
Our adventure began with a drive to stunning Lake Bohinj. We had planned ahead and chose a parking spot (location) close to the shore for easy access to the water with our new inflatable boat. It was the perfect setup—no hassle, just straight to the fun!
We spent the entire day soaking up the sunshine, paddling across the lake, and taking in the breathtaking mountain views all around us. The water at Lake Bohinj was surprisingly warm and incredibly calm, making it perfect for our little boating adventure. The kids loved gliding across the clear water, spotting fish below, and just lounging in the boat while we drifted along. It felt like our own little slice of paradise.
As the sun began to set, we headed back to our base at Camping Sobec, where we wrapped up the day with some more time on the camp’s private lake. It was a peaceful way to wind down after a day full of fun and adventure.
Day 7: Vršič Pass & Visiting Russian Chapel & Zelenci Nature Reserve
By day seven, we were itching for another adventure, so we set our sights on the stunning Vršič Pass (directions) in the Julian Alps. The drive took about an hour, but it wasn’t just any drive—imagine 50 hairpin turns winding up the mountainside! It was definitely a challenge, but the scenery kept us in awe the whole way up. When we finally reached the pass, we were greeted with jaw-dropping views that made every twist and turn worthwhile.
But there was one more challenge waiting for us—finding a parking spot. Since we hadn’t managed to arrive super early, most of the spaces were already taken, and we had to circle around a few times before finding a spot. It was a bit of a scramble, but eventually, we parked and set off on our next adventure: a 5,4 km circular hike around Vršič (hike information).
The trail turned out to be a hit with everyone, even our 5-year-old, despite the 350 meters of elevation gain. She powered through like a champ! The hike offered stunning alpine views at every turn, and we found the perfect spot to sit down for a picnic lunch. There’s nothing quite like enjoying sandwiches with a side of panoramic mountain vistas—it’s those little moments that make trips like this so special.
On the way back down, we made a stop at the Russian Chapel (directions), dedicated to Saint Vladimir. This small but moving memorial honors the Russian prisoners of war who built the Vršič road during World War I. Nestled among the trees, it’s a peaceful and reflective spot, and we took a few moments to appreciate the history and the quiet beauty of the place before continuing our descent.
Next up, we stumbled upon a hidden gem: Zelenci Nature Reserve (directions). With a convenient parking area nearby, it’s an easy stop if you’re driving through the region. The reserve’s emerald-green waters and peaceful atmosphere made it a beautiful place to stretch our legs and soak up the natural beauty of Slovenia.
After a full day of exploration, we returned to Camping Sobec and ended our day with some relaxation by the camp’s lake. The kids splashed around while we soaked in the last rays of sunshine—a perfect way to unwind after our mountain adventure.
If you’re exploring the Julian Alps, Vršič Pass is an absolute must-see, and a little side trip to Zelenci Nature Reserve is the cherry on top. Just remember to arrive early for parking, and don’t forget to pack a picnic for those unbeatable views!
Day 8: Family Fun & Relaxation at Camping Sobec
As we entered the second week of our road trip, we decided to slow things down and enjoy a much-needed rest day at Camping Sobec. After a week full of adventures, it felt great to stay put for a change and avoid using the car altogether. The campground had everything we needed for a relaxing day, including a beautiful lake and a river with a stone beach—perfect for the kids to splash around in while we soaked up some sun.
We really needed this day after several nights with noise issues at the campsite, which had cut into our sleep and left us feeling a bit drained. So, we made it a priority to unwind and recharge our batteries with a slower pace and some quiet time.
We came prepared with a few games and toys, so the kids had a blast playing by the water’s edge, skipping stones, and exploring the rocky shore. Meanwhile, we took the opportunity to unwind, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and recharge for the rest of our trip. The day felt like a perfect mix of family fun and relaxation, and it was just what we needed to catch our breath before the next adventure.
Day 9: The Real Lake Bled Experience
The day finally arrived—on Day 9, it was time to switch campsites to Camping Bled. This was a place we’d already fallen in love with during my second interrail trip, so after our less-than-ideal experience at Sobec, we were excited to settle into a spot with a good pitch, no bathroom queues, and—most importantly—peaceful, quiet nights.
This was our second time at Lake Bled, but we had some unfinished business. Last time, we didn’t manage to visit the iconic island, so this time we came prepared with our inflatable boat, just like we did at Lake Bohinj. After checking in and setting up our tent, we wasted no time—getting the boat inflated and heading straight for the lake.
The weather was absolutely perfect: sunny and hot, with clear skies that made the emerald waters of Lake Bled look even more inviting. Just like in Bohinj, the water was warm, ideal for swimming and splashing around. After a relaxing row across the lake, we reached the island and climbed to the top, taking in the breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding Alps.
Once we had our fill of the stunning vistas, we enjoyed a little picnic right on the boat—a simple but special moment floating in the middle of Lake Bled. Fully satisfied with our day’s adventure, we paddled back to shore and returned to Camping Bled.
After dinner, we went for a leisurely walk to admire the night views of Lake Bled Island. The twinkling lights from the island reflected beautifully on the calm water, creating a magical atmosphere. The quiet of the evening, punctuated only by the soft rustling of the trees and the distant sound of ducks, made it a peaceful end to a perfect day. We lingered for a while, soaking in the serene beauty before heading back to our cozy campsite.
Day 10: Sunrise at Lake Bled & exploring Soteska Vintgar
During our previous visit to Lake Bled, we experienced the magic of a sunrise over the lake—such a serene and unforgettable moment. This time, we couldn’t wait to share that experience with our children, hoping they’d appreciate the calm, early-morning beauty of Bled just as much as we did.
We set our alarms for 6:00 AM, quietly got the kids up, and made our way straight to the lake to catch the sunrise. As the first rays of light peeked over the mountains and reflected off the still waters, it felt like we had the whole world to ourselves. Watching the mist rise from the lake as the day began was the perfect way to start our adventure.
After soaking in the peaceful sunrise, we had our next destination in mind: Soteska Vintgar, a stunning gorge near Bled. We had two options for getting there—driving and dealing with parking fees and hassles, or taking a scenic 3 km hike from Camping Bled and catching a free shuttle to the gorge. We opted for the hike, enjoying the morning air as we walked through the beautiful Slovenian countryside. The trek took us less than an hour, and the shuttle ride that followed was quick and easy.
If you’re planning a visit to Soteska Vintgar, be sure to reserve your time slot and book tickets in advance. Upon arrival, they provide you with a helmet, and soon after, you’re off exploring the gorge’s incredible views. The wooden paths wind through towering cliffs and alongside rushing turquoise waters, offering picture-perfect views at every turn. It’s an easy, family-friendly walk, and after about an hour of wandering through the gorge, we found ourselves at the exit, wishing the experience could last a little longer.
But our adventure wasn’t quite over yet! At the end of the gorge, you can choose between two trails: The River of Trees Trail and The King of Triglav Trail. We opted for The River of Trees Trail, a 3 km route that would take us back to the entrance where we could catch the shuttle back to Bled. It was a beautiful path through the forest, with the sound of the river following us along the way.
Once back in Bled, we still had another 3 km walk to reach our campsite, but thankfully, this part of the hike was downhill, making it much easier on tired legs. The promise of another dip in the lake kept the kids motivated, and before long, we were back by the shore, ready for another boat ride and a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Bled.
It was a day filled with natural beauty, from the peaceful sunrise to the dramatic scenery of Soteska Vintgar, and a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. If you’re visiting Lake Bled, a morning hike to the gorge followed by a lakeside afternoon is an absolute must!
Day 11: Bled Castle & Tobogganing
We decided on a slow start to the day. After a relaxed breakfast, we set off on a 3 km hike to Bled Castle. The walk took us about an hour, winding through scenic views and beautiful landscapes that made the journey just as enjoyable as the destination. Once we reached Bled Castle, we found the experience worthwhile—although, admittedly, the ticket prices felt high for the relatively quick visit inside. However, the castle offers some of the best photo opportunities of Lake Bled, which made it all worth it.
On our way down to Bled town, we stopped for lunch, where an unexpected incident occurred—my son was stung by a wasp. The area does have quite a few wasps, so it’s something to watch for. Fortunately, the café staff quickly offered some ice to ease the pain, and he was feeling better soon after.
Our next adventure was tobogganing at Straža Bled, but first, we took some time to enjoy a stroll through Bled town and treat ourselves to some delicious ice cream. When we finally reached Straža Bled, we were greeted by a long line; it took about 30 minutes before we could take the chairlift up. But luck was on our side—just before we entered the final part of the queue, some friendly tourists gave us four tickets with one ride left on each, which meant everyone in the family could go again later!
The ride up on the chairlift was a bit of a challenge in the heat, but the thrill of zooming down the toboggan course made it all worth it. The descent took just about a minute, but it was packed with fun, and everyone was eager to go again. Thanks to those extra tickets, we got to experience the ride one more time!
After a day full of adventure, we felt both happy and a bit sad—this was our last day in Bled. The town had been an unforgettable part of our trip, and we weren’t quite ready to leave. So we capped off the day with another swim in the lake, savoring every last moment.
:: Road Trip in Croatia – 15 Days
Day 12: Bled to Zagreb, stop at Treetop Walk Pohorje
The road trip must go on! Today, it was time to say goodbye to Bled. After a good night’s sleep, we woke up early and started packing the car for the next leg of our journey. But when we tried to start the engine, we realized our battery was dead—and with a big drive ahead, this wasn’t the start we were hoping for.
Thankfully, our campsite neighbors were incredibly kind; one lent us a booster cable, and another brought their car over so we could jump-start ours. Problem solved! We also figured out that our interior lights had been draining the battery while we’d kept the doors open at camp, so we made sure to switch them off before heading out.
With that hiccup behind us, we’re now embarking on 15 unforgettable days of road trip in Croatia.
With that little adventure behind us, we hit the road toward our next stop: the Treetop Walk in Pohorje. It was a big detour, about 200 km and two hours away, but we were excited to try something unique and unforgettable.
The Treetop Walk in Pohorje is a 1 km elevated hike that climbs up to an altitude of 1,517 meters, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. At the top, we couldn’t resist paying the extra 2€ each to take the thrilling 62-meter slide back down—it was so much fun, even if we all felt a bit dizzy afterward!
After a quick lunch to refuel, we continued on to Zagreb, with another 150 km (about 1.5 hours) still to go. We eventually arrived at Camping Zagreb, where we were pleased to find a great pitch and easy access to the city center.
All in all, it was a day filled with unexpected moments, scenic views, and new experiences—a perfect way to keep our road trip spirit alive!
Day 13: Exploring Zagreb & Samobor
For this day, I planned an easy-going itinerary. We started with a relaxed morning, then headed into Zagreb’s city center, where we parked at Langov Trg Garage (directions). It was perfectly located near the old town, making it easy to explore on foot. The drive in was quick—just about half an hour.
Once in the city, we spent time taking in the main sights. Our highlights included the historic Stone Gate, the colorful Saint Mark’s Church (directions), the impressive Cathedral of Zagreb (directions), Dolac Market (directions), and the atmospheric Grič Tunnel. Saint Mark’s Church was the standout, with its beautifully tiled roof. Unfortunately, the Cathedral was undergoing renovations, so we couldn’t go inside, but the rest of the landmarks gave us a solid feel for the city. We spent around two hours exploring, which was enough to see most of the key sights.
Afterwards, we decided to visit a hidden gem just outside Zagreb the charming town of Samobor. Parking was easy near the center, but we chose a spot a bit further out for a cheaper rate, and since we had plenty of time, it was a nice opportunity to walk in. We headed toward King Tomislav Square, enjoying the views along the scenic Samoborska šetnica. The old town had a lovely, relaxed vibe, and we took our time wandering through the historic streets and unwinding at the park.
We ended the day back at Camping Zagreb, as we had a big drive ahead the next morning to Omiš, with a planned stop in Split.
Day 14: Zagreb to Omis, stop at Split
We started the day bright and early, gearing up for one of the longest drives of our trip—from Zagreb to Omiš. After a quick breakfast and packing up the car, everyone settled in with road-trip essentials: snacks, playlists, and a few games to keep the kids entertained along the way. With 450 km (4 hours) ahead, mostly on highways, we were ready to cover some ground, especially with a planned stop in Split to break up the journey.
The sunny, hot weather greeted us as we rolled into Split around 1 pm. Parking was a bit of a challenge, with lots full all over the city, but we finally snagged a spot at Public Garage Vila Drazanac (directions). Although the rates were high, the convenience made it worthwhile, just a short 300-meter walk to the old town. We spent a couple of hours wandering Split’s historic center, exploring Diocletian’s Palace, the old city gates, and taking a stroll along the lively Riva waterfront. Despite the parking hassle, Split’s vibrant charm and ancient history made it worth every minute.
Leaving Split came with another round of traffic, but by late afternoon, we arrived at Camp Galeb in Omiš with enough daylight to set up our tent and enjoy dinner.
The campsite, perched right on the beach, offered stunning views of Brač Island—a spot we planned to visit soon. While the facilities were a bit more basic than we’d hoped for the price, the unbeatable location by the Adriatic made it the perfect end to a long day on the road.
Day 15: Beach and Rest Day at Omis
After several days on the road, we were more than ready for a laid-back day by the sea. Originally, we had planned to check out Punta Rata beach, but with our spontaneous decision to visit Brač coming up, we decided to skip it. We’d also hoped to visit the Skywalk Biokovo, but unfortunately, it was fully booked. Luckily, the beach at Camp Galeb turned out to be all we needed, with its calm, warm waters and sunny weather.
It was the perfect day to unwind, and having a private beach right at the campground made it even better. We spent the day swimming, soaking up the sun, and enjoying the simple pleasures of a restful beach day after so much adventure.
Day 16: Exploring Omis
On our 16th day, we set out to explore the charming town of Omiš. After breakfast, we made our way to the old town and climbed up to the historic Mirabela Fortress (Peovica). While the entry fee was a bit steep, the panoramic views from the top were worth it, offering a sweeping perspective over the town and the coastline. Once we’d taken in the sights, we strolled through Omiš’s beautiful old town, appreciating its medieval streets and coastal charm.
From there, we headed to Omiš Beach to soak up more sun and sea before returning to camp for some relaxation on the private beach. As the sun set, we decided to experience Omiš at night—and it did not disappoint.
The town was even more magical under the evening lights, a perfect way to spend our last night in Omiš. The next day, we’d be off to Dubrovnik, so we cherished every moment of this final evening in town.
Day 17: Omis to Dubrovnik
The road trip continued, and after packing up, we set out for Dubrovnik—the furthest point from Portugal on our journey and, along with Plitvice, one of our key destinations for this trip. Little did we know, though, that the events of this day would complicate our plans for exploring Dubrovnik.
The 200 km (around 3 hours) drive went smoothly. We made a stop at the Pelješac Bridge for lunch, enjoying the stunning views before getting back on the road. By early afternoon, we arrived at our campsite, Camping Solitudo, where we had the freedom to choose our own pitch. We found a spacious spot, ideal for drying laundry and getting organized.
Once we’d set everything up, we headed to the Copacabana beach, just a short 400-meter walk away. The crystal-clear, warm water was perfect, and we spent the afternoon unwinding and swimming. We ended the day excited for our first full day in Dubrovnik.
However, after dinner, things took an unexpected turn. Our daughter drank her water a bit too quickly, and her digestion didn’t take it well—she started feeling unwell and ended up getting sick. Not the ending we’d hoped for.
Day 18: Dubrovnik or not Dubrovnik
After the rough night, we weren’t sure how the morning would unfold—and unfortunately, it didn’t start well. Our daughter still couldn’t keep down any food or liquids, so we had to be patient. By mid-morning, we decided to split up: my wife and son would go ahead to explore Dubrovnik while I stayed back at the campsite with our daughter, hoping she’d start feeling better soon.
While my wife and son made the most of their day in Dubrovnik, checking in frequently, I spent a quiet day at camp with our daughter, who thankfully began to improve as the hours passed. By the afternoon, the heat was intense, so we decided to cool off with a short walk to the beach, which ended up being a great choice. The fresh air and calm water seemed to lift her spirits, and not long after, my wife and son returned to join us.
With our daughter feeling noticeably better, we decided to take our chances and head into Dubrovnik together for a low-key evening. We strolled through the Old Town, marveling at its unique charm, and managed to find a small restaurant that offered gentle, diet-friendly options for her.
Though the day had started rough, it ended on a high note. We all got to experience a bit of Dubrovnik’s magic, and the city’s beautiful streets and historical sites left us eager for more.
Day 19: Dubrovnik to Brac
Although we loved Camping Solitudo in Dubrovnik, we had only planned a two-night stay, which didn’t leave us enough time to explore the city fully. But the road trip must go on! Today, we were off to the island of Brač. We had pre-booked the ferry from Makarska to Sumartin, a 1-hour trip, so we woke up early for the 2.5-hour drive to Makarska. Once there, we parked in the ferry lane, and everything went smoothly. It was our second ferry journey of the trip, but this ferry was much smaller than the last, so booking ahead was essential!
Our next stop was Camping Aloa, a beautiful spot right on the water with a private beach. After setting up our campsite (with an amazing view of the Adriatic and Hvar Island), we cooled off with a swim and took in the scenery. We went to bed early, excited for the next day’s adventure to the famous Zlatni Rat beach.
Day 20 and 21, Zlatni Rat
Days 20 and 21 of our road trip turned into a dream beach getaway at Zlatni Rat—easily one of Europe’s most beautiful beaches. The water, as you can see in the pictures, was calm, crystal-clear, and warm. And with perfect weather on our side, we soaked up every moment. For €10 each day, we parked right next to the beach, packed food, and spent two full days just relaxing, swimming, and enjoying the views.
One of the best things about Zlatni Rat is its unique shape—when the wind picks up, you can switch sides to find calm water. These days at Zlatni Rat made the ferry trip and everything leading up to it so worth it. Brac Island truly stole our hearts!
Day 22: Brac to Korana
Day 22 was our time to bid farewell to Brac Island. We woke up early, packed up the car, and squeezed in one last swim at the beach—a final taste of paradise. Then, we headed to Supetar for the ferry to Split, but a bit of confusion caught us off guard. We’d initially tried to book the Sumartin ferry, but it was full, so we opted for the Supetar ferry and bought tickets online for a specific time slot. What we didn’t realize was that, despite the timed ticket, boarding was on a first-come, first-served basis. Arriving later meant we ended up further back in line, leading to a frustrating three-hour wait. Lesson learned: for the Supetar ferry, getting there early is essential!
Once we finally boarded, everything went smoothly, and we were off to Split. From there, we had a 270 km (about 3 hours) drive ahead of us to Kamp Korana. We arrived just before nightfall, and thankfully, still had enough light to set up our tent. We’d chosen Kamp Korana for its budget-friendly rates, great reviews, and close proximity to Plitvice Lakes National Park, our next big stop. This campground allows you to choose your own pitch, so we picked a spot conveniently close to the bathrooms. The facilities here were excellent for the price—a great find that would make exploring Plitvice the next day that much easier.
Day 23: Visiting Plitvicka Lakes National Park and Baraceve Cave
Day 23 was the long-awaited highlight of our road trip: visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park. We’d booked our tickets for a 9:00 a.m. entry to dodge the crowds and midday heat, setting our expectations sky-high. From the moment we arrived and glimpsed the enormous waterfall, every kilometer we’d driven felt worth it. We found parking near the entrance, which cost €16—a little steep, but the proximity was convenient.
We chose Program C, an 8 km route that includes both a scenic boat ride and a shuttle bus, allowing us to explore both the Upper and Lower Lakes and see several breathtaking waterfalls along the way. The hike was tiring but absolutely rewarding—the landscapes were simply stunning. If you’re visiting Croatia, Plitvice is truly a must-see destination.
We wrapped up our hike around 2:30 p.m., and with some time to spare, decided to visit Baraćeve špilje (Caves of Barac), a unique cave nearby. Outside, the area offered fun activities for kids and a small playground, making it family-friendly. After a short wait, we joined an almost private guided tour of the cave with just one other couple. The cave itself was fascinating, albeit a bit short and pricey, but we agreed it was still well worth it. It was the perfect end to an unforgettable day and a definite high point of our road trip!
Day 24: Korana to Umag stop at Rastoke Waterfalls
Day 24 marked another leg of our family road trip as we packed up from Kamp Korana and headed towards Umag, with a fun pit stop in mind. The drive was around 270 km (about 3 hours and 20 minutes), and we planned to break it up with a quick stop at Rastoke Waterfalls. This charming little town, with its beautiful waterfalls and traditional watermills, felt like a magical detour and added a lovely memory to our journey.
Camping Park Umag was a whole new experience—it’s like a small town just for campers! It had everything we needed and more, from supermarkets to beach access and pools. The highlight for our kids? The water park just steps from our pitch, featuring plenty of slides and fun water features that kept them entertained for hours.
After setting up our tent, we dove straight into a relaxing afternoon by the pool, unwinding from our travels. Later, we tackled laundry duty, and, unlike other campsites, Umag had a super convenient contactless payment system that made it easy (and a bit cheaper) to get our clothes clean again.
With Umag, we’d officially entered the Istria region—marking the last stretch of our road trip but the beginning of a new adventure. We’re excited to explore, but for the moment, it was all about enjoying this family-friendly campground and gearing up for the next few days in this beautiful part of Croatia!
Day 25: Pula and Rovinj
Our Istrian adventure began with a visit to Pula, just an easy one-hour drive from our campsite. After parking at Karolina, we kicked off the day by exploring the Pula Amphitheatre, an impressive piece of ancient history that had us all imagining life in Roman times. From there, we wandered through the charming Old Town, stopping to see the Arch of the Sergii and the Temple of Augustus. It was a fun morning packed with sights and plenty of walking through cobbled streets.
After lunch, we headed to Rovinj, a small gem of a town with narrow, winding streets leading up to a stunning church perched on top of the hill. Rovinj quickly became our favorite spot in Istria, thanks to its well-preserved historic charm and authentic feel, complete with breathtaking sea views around every corner.
By late afternoon, when we were ready to unwind, we headed back to Camp Umag, where a well-deserved rest awaited. We capped off the day with a refreshing dip in the pool and some beach time, enjoying every bit of Istria’s beauty.
Day 26: Postojna Cave and Porec
This day came with a big surprise for our kids: a train ride inside a massive cave! We started by driving to Postojna Cave in Slovenia, just a quick one-hour trip. Like other popular spots, we had to book a time slot in advance and were advised to bring warm clothes—caves stay pretty chilly even in summer. The train ride was a huge hit with the kids; they loved gliding through the dark passages and spotting the glimmering formations.
The guided tour inside Postojna Cave lasted around 1.5 hours and was mesmerizing for all of us. With its towering stalactites, intricate stalagmites, and expansive caverns, Postojna is a true natural wonder and a must-see for any cave lover!
After our morning adventure, we took some time to relax at the beach back at the campsite. In the late afternoon, we drove to Poreč, a charming coastal town that has a different vibe than Pula or Rovinj. The Old Town has its own character with winding streets and beautiful sea views. We wandered around, exploring the local sights, and wrapped up the day with a cozy dinner in one of the local spots.
Unfortunately, this was also our last day exploring Croatia. The next day, we’d be leaving this beautiful country, heading to Parma to begin the long drive back home to Portugal.
Croatia had truly left its mark on us, but we were excited to see what the road ahead would bring as we started our journey back.
:: Returning to Portugal
Day 27: Umag to Parma
On day 27, with a touch of sadness, we packed up our things and prepared to say goodbye to this beautiful region of Europe. Our next destination was Parma in Italy, with a 450 km (5-hour) drive ahead. But we couldn’t leave Camping Park Umag without one last swim in the camping beach and pool!
After our final dip, we hit the road. The drive was mostly uneventful, but we kept ourselves entertained by reminiscing over all the amazing memories from the trip. By late afternoon, we arrived at the Holiday Inn Express in Reggio Emilia, ready for a good night’s rest. As we settled in, we couldn’t help but feel grateful for the adventure, with excitement for the last leg of the journey back to Portugal.
Day 28: Parma to Istres
To keep this day from becoming just a long 600 km, 7-hour drive, we woke up early and decided to make a stop in Parma. We parked just outside the old town at Parkhaus Parma to avoid any trouble with Italy’s ZTL (restricted driving) zones. From there, we made our way by foot into the historic center to visit and admire the beautiful Cattedrale di Parma and San Giovanni Evangelista. After soaking up a bit more of Parma’s charm, we continued on our drive toward Istres.
We chose Istres as our stop mainly because it had the most budget-friendly Ibis in the area. The hotel was basic but just what we needed after a full day—we were tired and only wanted to get some rest.
Day 29: Istres to Tarbes, stop at Avignon
With just three days left on our journey, each mile brought us closer to Portugal. Today, we had a 500 km (5-hour) drive ahead, traveling from Istres to Tarbes. To make the day a bit more exciting, we planned a small detour in Avignon to visit the stunning Palais des Papes and the iconic Pont d’Avignon. Exploring this historic city was a fantastic way to start the day, giving us one last taste of French history and culture.
After our Avignon visit, we hit the road toward the Ibis Budget Tarbes, where we’d be staying for two nights. The drive wasn’t easy—heavy traffic and bad weather made it quite challenging—but we eventually arrived safely in Tarbes, ready to unwind and prepare for the final stretch of our trip.
Day 30: Lourdes and Pau
This would be our final rest day before the long 1,100 km drive back to Portugal, so we planned a fun and relaxing day exploring Lourdes and Pau, recharging our energy for the road ahead.
Our day began in Lourdes, a major pilgrimage site known for the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, where many believe miraculous healings have taken place. We found free parking at Parking Hélios and made our way to the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary to visit the sanctuary. The experience was humbling, and the peaceful atmosphere set a reflective tone for the day.
Afterward, we visited the Château Fort Musée Pyrénéen, a historic castle atop a hill, offering panoramic views of Lourdes and its beautiful surroundings. Inside, the museum provided us with a well-organized guide and numbered exhibits, making it easy to explore and learn about the history of the region.
In the afternoon, we continued to Pau, stopping for a picnic lunch in a nearby park. Once in Pau, we parked along Av. Jean Biray near the historic funicular, which took us up to the city center for free—a charming and scenic ride!
At the top, we visited Saint Martin Church and admired the cityscape. Though we initially planned to explore the Château de Pau, we found that it was only open to guided tours in French, so we opted instead to stroll through the lovely Château gardens, which provided wonderful views of the city and were perfect for relaxing.
Finally, we returned to Tarbes and capped off our day with a visit to Parc Bel-Air, where the kids enjoyed the playground and slides. It was a perfect ending to our stay in France, leaving us rested and ready for the final stretch of our journey.
Day 31: Tarbes to Lisbon
This was it—the final stretch! Ahead of us lay the longest drive of the trip: over 1,100 km and about 11 hours on the road. We set our alarms for a bright-and-early 6 a.m. to beat the morning traffic, and as the sun rose, we were off, each mile bringing us closer to home.
With Spotify queued up to Disney soundtracks and road trip playlists, we settled into the rhythm of the drive, making quick stops along the way to keep up our energy. Despite the length, there was something satisfying about this last leg; we could feel the excitement building with every kilometer. Finally, in the late evening, we arrived back in Portugal, with our last stop at Quinta do Sol to reunite with our dog, who’d been waiting for us all month. That joyful reunion was the perfect homecoming.
As we unloaded the car, it hit us: we had made it through an entire month on the road! Going into this trip, we were nervous about all the things that could go wrong, but almost everything went smoothly, and we came back with countless unforgettable memories. We’re definitely stronger as a family, more knowledgeable travelers, and already dreaming up the next adventure.
Tips for this road trip
Looking back, a few lessons really stand out:
- Book Early, Book Everything: When it comes to popular destinations, booking a few months in advance might not cut it. We thought reserving our Bled campsite two months ahead was enough—lesson learned! Secure your spots for campsites, attractions, and activities as far in advance as possible to avoid disappointment.
- Pack the Right Gear: Swim shoes are a must! Many lake and seaside beaches in Croatia are covered in gravel and stones, making it uncomfortable to go barefoot. Swim shoes were game-changers for us and saved our feet a lot of wear and tear.
- Include Dedicated Rest Days: After days of constant driving, having some downtime is essential. Make room for true rest days to recharge (and for your car battery to discharge too if it needs it!). Long road trips can get exhausting if you don’t pace yourself, so sprinkle in days to fully relax and enjoy the journey at a slower pace.
Final Thoughts
After our first road trip to the Netherlands and our second road trip to France, this road trip had been in the works for a while. It was different, farther, and more ambitious—but absolutely worth it. The beaches were stunning, and the weather was on our side most of the time!
Planning a 30-day road trip across Europe might seem daunting, but by following our road trip guide and taking it slow, we were able to pack in countless adventures and activities that the whole family loved. It’s hard to pick a favorite, but for now, this just might be our best family road trip yet!