10-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rijeka to Pula, Senj, Zadar, Karlovac County, and Zagreb and surrounding area

Day 2 of your road trip across Croatia promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Rijeka. You have 1 night left in Rijeka. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Make a stop at Trsat Castle. This well-known castle is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat located in Rijeka for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Petar Kružić Stairway. Its picture-perfect features will captivate you. After the monument, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Maritime And History Museum Of The Croatian Coast. Visitors usually appreciate the heritage-rich features of this museum.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Croatia. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Rijeka is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Rijeka.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Nebo by Deni Srdoč in Rijeka by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Nebo by Deni Srdoč delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern and creative cuisine. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Zelena Dolina? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Teatro Lounge Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Book Caffe Dnevni Boravak is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Pub "bačva" also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Croatia includes 4 stops and features some of the highlights of Rošini, Gedići, Rovinj, and Fažana. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Pula, where you'll spend 1 night.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Rošini. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 21 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Motodrom Porec. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the motor speedway before you continue to your next stop.

After soaking in Rošini’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Gedići. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 10 min. When you arrive in Gedići, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Baredine Cave, a worthwhile cave in Gedići. Explore its majestic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Rovinj may take around 43 min. Upon your arrival in Rovinj, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Church Of St. Euphemia, an up-and-coming church that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Park Forest Zlatni Rt and admire its peaceful features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Pula, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Pula. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Pizzeria Samantha, a top-rated dining spot in Pula. If you're in the mood for something new, try Fresh Sandwiches and Salads, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Bistro Romantic Alley. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Pula.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Beach Bar Laplaya offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Shipyard Pub is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Zeppelin - Beach & Lounge Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Croatia.

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Pula. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Senj, where you'll spend 1 night.

Make time for Pula Arena, a famous archeological site that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Forum Square, enchanting visitors with its grand appeal. Continue your exploration at Temple Of Augustus. This monument is one of the city’s most locally renowned spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Pula at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Aquarium Pula.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Senj. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Senj's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Savor the flavors at Pizzeria King, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bistro i Caffe bar "Kod tri mornara" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant Uskok. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Senj tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Pirassa Caffe Gelateria. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Cafe Bar Julijus offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Erna, another top-rated bar in the area.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Croatia!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Senj, Perušić, and Smiljan. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Zadar, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Let Park Nehaj set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this culturally significant castle before continuing your journey. Nehaj Fortress is your next stop. This beloved castle is one of the best-rated sights in Senj.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Plaža Prva Draga. This mesmerizing beach is a sight to behold.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Perušić may take around 1 hour 5 min. Upon your arrival in Perušić, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Grabovača is a beloved cave system we recommend visiting today. Discover its gorgeous features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Smiljan, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Perušić to Smiljan may take around 21 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Smiljan, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Smiljan is Nikola Tesla Memorial Center, a worthwhile museum that draws attention for its symbolic features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Zadar. Zadar offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Zadar, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at Pizzeria Šime, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Harvatski restorant "Galiya" boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restoran Zadar - Jadera. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zadar.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Yachting Bar & Club after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Caffe Bar Porthos for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, The Factory Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Croatia.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Zadar. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Karlovac County, where will spend 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the underrated Market Zadar and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Narodni Trg, a romantic public square that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Church Of St. Donatus, one of the city’s most beloved spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the underrated Roman Forum. When you're finished at the archeological site, Sea Organ awaits your visit. This art installation is a culturally significant highlight on today's itinerary.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Karlovac County, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Karlovac County is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Karlovac County.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Pizzeria Tiffany Karlovac, a top-rated dining destination in Karlovac County. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ćevabdžinica Behar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Konoba Črni kos. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Karlovac County this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Choco Caffe Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Kazališna Kavana. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at R Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!

On day 7 of your road trip in Croatia, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Zagreb are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zagreb, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Zagreb. This car ride takes around 39 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Bundek, a notable park in Zagreb. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Croatian Museum Of Contemporary Art. This up-and-coming museum is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Ribnjak Park is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most romantic park in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the interesting Zagreb Cathedral and discover what makes this church unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to Ban Josip Jelačić Statue, a heritage-rich monument many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Zagreb. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Zagreb's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Zinfandel's Restaurant, a highly-rated dining destination in Zagreb. If you're eager to try something different, consider Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Rougemarin City. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zagreb this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Tesla New Generation, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Caffe Bar Destino is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Booze And Blues also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Croatia!

Day 8 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Rijeka. You’ll stay in Zagreb for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Whether you decide to explore Zagreb on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the locally renowned Park Maksimir and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Zagreb Zoo, an instagrammable zoo that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Mimara Museum, one of the city’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the beloved Technical Museum.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Croatia. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Zagreb. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Don’t miss out on dining at Restoran Taurus, a top-rated dining destination in Zagreb. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Trilogija - Vino & Kuhinja, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Pizzeria Park. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zagreb this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Krolo, known for its inviting atmosphere. Kavana Corso is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Valhalla Beer Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Croatia!

Your itinerary for day 9 of your road trip in Croatia includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Zagreb. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Rijeka, where you'll spend 1 night.

Stone Gate is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This romantic historical landmark is sure to impress. Next on your list is Museum Of Broken Relationships, another must-visit landmark and worthwhile museum renowned for its instagrammable features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Zagreb by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Lotrščak Tower. This awe-inspiring historical landmark is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Zagreb experience. We also recommend visiting Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb, a beloved performing arts theater. Nearby, you'll also find Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb, ready to add charm to your journey.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Rijeka. Rijeka offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Rijeka. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restoran Morčić, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bowling Center Rijeka offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Seafood restaurant Feral is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Rijeka.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Pet Jedan Tapas Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. "metropolis" Caffe Bar & Night Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Caffe Bar Kosi Toranj provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Croatia.