11-Day Croatia Road Trip from Zagreb traveling west to Rijeka, Pula, Ogulin, Zadar, Split, and Lika-Senj County

Welcome to Zagreb, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Croatia! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Zagreb's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Zagreb is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Zagreb. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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

Make a reservation at HERITAGE - Croatian Street Food & Shop, a popular dining spot in Zagreb. Its reputation for being a popular dining spot shines through its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,369 satisfied diners.

Make a reservation at Dubravkin put while indulging in the charm of Zagreb. This restaurant offers a delicious menu reflected with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, cherished by 1,365 discerning connoisseurs.

Indulge in the flavors of Cheese Bar, a treasured establishment in Zagreb. Its diverse menu promises to tantalize your palate and elevate your dining experience. Known for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,097 satisfied guests.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Mr. Fogg, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,233 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Swanky Monkey Garden, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,237 customers. This spot is known for its unique atmosphere and impressive selection of beverages, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists alike.

Valhalla beer bar is yet another top-rated place where you can easily spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,010 customers.

Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in Croatia!

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Zagreb has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Zagreb by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Zagreb has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Zagreb offers and add your favorites to your Croatia travel package below.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Zagreb.

Make a reservation at Roots - juice & cocktail bar, a popular dining spot in Zagreb. Its reputation for being a popular dining spot shines through its 4.9 out of 5-star rating from 800 satisfied diners.

Make a reservation at Restoran Vegehop while indulging in the charm of Zagreb. This restaurant offers a delicious menu reflected with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, cherished by 760 discerning connoisseurs.

Indulge in the flavors of Mali Medo, a treasured establishment in Zagreb. Its diverse menu promises to tantalize your palate and elevate your dining experience. Known for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 5,203 satisfied guests.

Locals recommend going for a drink at Booze and Blues. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 848 customers.

Another popular bar you could swing by after dinner is A’e Craft Bar. This bar is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 705 customers.

Program Bar also makes the list of popular bars you could visit tonight. This bar is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 637 customers.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Zagreb and Rijeka. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Rijeka, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Stone Gate. Previous visitors have rated this city gate an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,640 reviews.

Museum of Broken Relationships is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 7,032 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Lotrščak Tower. This fortified tower is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,513 reviews.

Botanical Garden of the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb is another outstanding experience in Zagreb. Around 6,593 travelers have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Bundek is not far away. This lake is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 15,257 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Rijeka, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Zagreb to Rijeka may take around 1 hour 46 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination.

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.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Nebo by Deni Srdoč, one of the top Bib Gourmand restaurants in Rijeka, holding 1 Michelin stars. Offering a diverse menu focusing on modern and creative cuisine, Nebo by Deni Srdoč has earned praise from numerous satisfied guests.

Ensure you experience culinary excellence at Konoba Fiume while in Rijeka. This dining establishment presents an exquisite menu that has received a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, acclaimed by 933 discerning diners.

Experience a taste of Rijeka at Boonker, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 3,735 customers.

If you're looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Book caffe Dnevni boravak, claiming it's one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,024 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is The Beertija Klub. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,087 customers.

Teatro Lounge Bar is another top-rated bar where you can spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 738 customers.

Head back to your accommodation in Rijeka and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia!

Greet day 4 of your road trip in Croatia with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Rijeka for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Rijeka, Vela Učka, Opatija, and Rijeka.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Trsat Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,592 reviews.

Continue your journey at Church of Mary of God of Trsat. This church is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,505 travelers from near and far.

Rijeka is also the home of Petar Kružić Stairway. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 806 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Rijeka, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Opatija. This drive usually takes around 23 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Vela Učka, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Opatija to Vela Učka may take around 26 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Journey into the unknown at Nature Park Učka, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,471 reviews.

Set your GPS to Rijeka and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 37 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Rijeka beckons with new experiences!

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

As you explore more of Rijeka, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Reserve your spot at Bistro Mornar, a popular local restaurant in Rijeka. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 3,156 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience King’s Caffe food pub during your stay in Rijeka. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,389 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of Submarine Burger Rijeka, a popular local gem in Rijeka. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,653 satisfied guests.

Experience the local nightlife scene. River is a highly recommended bar with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,197 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar among locals like Pet Jedan Tapas Bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 898 bar-goers.

Pub "Bačva" is another great bar that serves various drinks. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 781 customers.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

On day 5 of your road trip in Croatia, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Gedići, Rovinj, Fažana, Rošini, and Pula. In the evening, you’ll end up in Pula, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Rijeka and set your GPS to Rošini. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 21 min. Upon reaching Rošini, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Journey into the unknown at MOTODROM POREC, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,748 reviews.

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 10 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make Baredine Cave one of your first sightseeing stops in Gedići. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,737 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Pula, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Make a reservation at Veritas Food&Wine, a popular dining spot in Pula. Its reputation for being a popular dining spot shines through its 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 1,550 satisfied diners.

Make a reservation at Pizzeria Jupiter while indulging in the charm of Pula. This restaurant offers a delicious menu reflected with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, cherished by 7,601 discerning connoisseurs.

Indulge in the flavors of El Pulari, a treasured establishment in Pula. Its diverse menu promises to tantalize your palate and elevate your dining experience. Known for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,101 satisfied guests.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at a bar. Rock Bar Mimoza is a great place to continue your night. This bar has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 613 customers.

If you want to know where locals go, check out The Shipyard Pub. This bar has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,622 customers.

Another popular bar in the city is Hook & Cook Pula. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,587 customers.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Croatia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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 2 vibrant destinations - Pula and Ogulin. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Ogulin. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Ogulin. Ogulin offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you explore more of Ogulin, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Plan ahead and secure a table at Slastičarnica & FastFood Korzo, an acclaimed dining establishment in Ogulin. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 247 satisfied guests.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of Pizzeria Bonino while experiencing the best of Ogulin. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 1,181 discerning diners.

Indulge in the rich flavors of Štross Street Food, an elegant culinary destination in Ogulin. A menu crafted to perfection guarantees a dining experience that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Its stellar reputation is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 923 previous guests.

If you feel like having a drink or two after your meal, an awesome bar you can go to is Cafe COCKTAIL. This place has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 219 customers.

To enjoy a great atmosphere, continue your evening at caffe bar JAZZbina. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 456 customers.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Croatia, where you’ll be making 2 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Zadar and Zadar. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zadar. Zadar will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Zadar, 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 Zadar's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Don't forget to book a table at Restoran 4 Kantuna, a well-known eatery in Zadar. This popular restaurant and its sumptuous cuisine have won the hearts of food lovers. Its commitment to a delicious menu is evident in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 3,300 satisfied guests.

Ensure you visit Pet Bunara Dine & Wine while exploring Zadar. This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu, distinguished with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 1,856 discerning guests.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Trattoria Mediterraneo, a popular restaurant in Zadar. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 762 discerning diners.

To get a drink at one of the best bars in the city, go to Deja Brew Pub Zadar. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 735 customers.

If you’d like to continue your evening somewhere else, we recommend heading to BackStage Bar. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 508 customers.

A third bar where you could have a great time tonight is Harbor CookHouse & Club. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,272 customers.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Zadar, Općina Jasenice, Rupine, Grad Nin, and Split, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Split. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

After soaking in Zadar’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Grad Nin. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 21 min. When you arrive in Grad Nin, it's time to take a break from the road.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Rupine. This car ride takes around 8 min.

Take the opportunity to see Pariževačka glavica. This attraction has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 2,679 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Split, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Split.

Make sure to book a table at Perivoj restoran i kavana, a popular restaurant in Split. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 2,279 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at Villa Spiza during your stay in Split. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 1,322 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of Šug Restaurant, a renowned dining destination in Split. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,279 satisfied guests.

After dinner, visit The Daltonist Craft Bar, which is considered one of the best bars in the city. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,191 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular place like Tennis Bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,185 customers.

Alternatively, check out Art Gallery Cafe Music Bar Split. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 616 customers.

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

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Split and Lika-Senj County. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lika-Senj County, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Lika-Senj County. Lika-Senj County offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Lika-Senj County's best restaurants.

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in The Highlanders pub, a distinguished dining establishment in Lika-Senj County. It has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 928 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in Lika-Senj County is Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 1,954 happy diners.

Kavana Milinković stands out as a local favorite in Lika-Senj County. It offers a menu that promises to take you on a flavorful journey. Due to its reputation for delivering a good dining experience, it has earned a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 245 customers.

After dinner, visit one of the best bars in the city, Caffe Bar Bevanda. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 105 reviews and guarantees you a great time.

If you want to continue your night somewhere else, head to a popular bar like Caffe bar Amadeus. This bar is a local favorite, with great drinks, lovely service, and an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 77 customers.

The options in Lika-Senj County don’t end there, you could also spend some time at the excellent Bistro @ izletište Travel. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 175 customers, this bar is one of the best places to relax after a long, adventure-filled day.

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

On day 10 of your road trip in Croatia, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Smiljan, Kaniža Gospićka, Perušić, and Zagreb. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zagreb, where you will stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Perušić. This drive usually takes around 23 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Zagreb, 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 in Zagreb. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit Vinodol. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in Zagreb has received a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from around 4,410 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, Pri zvoncu should be on your list. Situated in the heart of Zagreb, it has become a beloved food venue for its delicious menu. It boasts a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,325 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at Pivnica Medvedgrad Ilica. This highly regarded restaurant in Zagreb has earned a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 4,156 satisfied guests.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in the city. Krolo is a popular option with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 520 customers.

Another top option is Vintage Industrial Bar. This bar offers a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,500 customers.

Esplanade Zagreb Hotel is also a great place to continue your evening. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,925 customers.

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

Day 11 of your road trip in Croatia is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Zagreb before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As you approach the end of your journey in Croatia, take a moment for some retail therapy in Zagreb’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family, or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Croatia, a variety of items are waiting for you.

Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Zagreb.

You’ll then say farewell to Zagreb. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Croatia!