11-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rijeka to Senj, Zadar, Split, Lika-Senj County, and Zagreb

Day 2 of your road trip across Croatia promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Rijeka. You have 3 nights left in Rijeka. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

One of the most popular attractions included on the itinerary is Trsat Castle. This enchanting castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat and learn what makes this romantic church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the worthwhile Petar Kružić Stairway. After exploring the monument, head to Natural History Museum Rijeka. This increasingly popular museum is a highlight in Rijeka.

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.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Nebo by Deni Srdoč, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern and creative menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Rijeka at Zelena Dolina, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Teatro Lounge Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Book Caffe Dnevni Boravak, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Pub "bačva". This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Greet day 3 of your road trip in Croatia with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 2 nights to stay in Rijeka, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Gedići and Rovinj.

Decumanus Street is a fantastic place you can explore today in Gedići. This street is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Gedići-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Gedići. This drive usually takes around 16 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Baredine Cave, an intriguing cave that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Set your GPS to Rovinj and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 43 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Rovinj beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready for some sights, head to Church Of St. Euphemia, an intriguing church in Rovinj. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Park Forest Zlatni Rt. This curiosity-inducing park is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Rijeka and your accommodation.

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 Rijeka, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restoran Morčić, a top-rated dining spot in Rijeka. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bowling Center Rijeka, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Seafood restaurant Feral. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Rijeka.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Pet Jedan Tapas Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, "metropolis" Caffe Bar & Night Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Caffe Bar Kosi Toranj offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

On day 4 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Pula. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Rijeka, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Pula, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Rijeka to Pula may take around 1 hour 33 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Pula, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Aquarium Pula, a locally renowned aquarium that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Temple Of Augustus, where you can soak in the photogenic surroundings.

Next, explore Forum Square, yet another beloved place to see in the area. After the public square, make time to go to Pula Arena. This historic archeological site is well worth the visit.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Rijeka.

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 ŠtoRija, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Conca d'oro offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restoran Spagho is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Rijeka.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Public Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Kancelarija Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Beertija Klub also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Croatia includes 4 stops and features some of the highlights of Vela Učka, Opatija, Bela Vodica, and Senj. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Senj, where you'll spend 1 night.

Vela Učka’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Rijeka behind. This drive usually takes around 34 min. Vela Učka welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Nature Park Učka, a beloved nature reserve known for its serene features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Opatija may take around 26 min. Upon your arrival in Opatija, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Maiden With The Seagull, a frequently visited sculpture in Opatija.

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

Savor the day by heading to Risnjak National Park, a beloved national park that draws visitors from near and far.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Pizzeria King, an iconic dining spot in Senj. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bistro i Caffe bar "Kod tri mornara", a popular restaurant in Senj. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurant Uskok, a hidden gem nestled in Senj. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Pirassa Caffe Gelateria is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Cafe Bar Julijus, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Erna. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Head back to your accommodation in Senj and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia.

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Zadar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Zadar, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

As you explore Zadar’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Zadar.

Our first attraction recommendation in Zadar is Sea Organ, an extraordinary art installation that draws attention for its visually striking features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Monument To The Sun, a romantic art installation that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Roman Forum, an increasingly popular archeological site that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Zadar Cathedral, a nearby church, highly recommended by other travelers. End your self-guided tour at Church Of St. Donatus, a photogenic church and the perfect final attraction in Zadar.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Pizzeria Šime, a top-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Harvatski restorant "Galiya", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Yachting Bar & Club, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Caffe Bar Porthos offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The Factory Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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.

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

Catch Market Zadar before the crowds roll in. This instagrammable market is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the romantic features of Narodni Trg, a must-visit public square in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Kolovare Beach, an often recommended beach.

Set your GPS to Split and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 48 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Split beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Marjan, a well-known park known for its romantic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Diocletian's Palace, an impressive palace.

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

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Šug in Split by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Šug offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious regional menu. If you're looking to mix things up, Perivoj restoran i kavana offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, La Linea offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Fabrique Pub is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Your itinerary for day 10 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.

Make a stop at Ban Josip Jelačić Statue. This well-known monument is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Zagreb Cathedral located in Zagreb for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb. Its picture-perfect features will captivate you. After the performing arts theater, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb. Visitors usually appreciate the serene features of this botanical garden.

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

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 Rijeka, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

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

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!