Relaxed 12-Day Croatia Road Trip from Rijeka to Karlovac County and Zagreb

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Rijeka, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Croatia are extraordinary.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Trsat Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,592 visitors.

Church of Mary of God of Trsat is another popular attraction you could visit today. This church has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,505 visitors.

Islamic Center of Rijeka is also highly recommended by travelers. This mosque has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 969 visitors.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Croatia more special is by joining unique tours and activities in Croatia. Rijeka offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Croatia, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Rijeka.

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

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Rijeka.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Teatro Lounge Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Book caffe Dnevni boravak offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Pub "Bačva". This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Rijeka!

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip through Croatia means 24 hours of making the best memories in Rijeka. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Rijeka!

Journey into the unknown at Natural History Museum Rijeka, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable natural history museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 797 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Maritime and History Museum of the Croatian Coast is a recommended place to visit. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,049 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Rijeka is Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (Rijeka). Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 349 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Rijeka offers an experience you will remember.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Croatia by joining a traveler-approved tour in Rijeka. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Rijeka that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Croatia more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Rijeka to find the best options for you!

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Rijeka, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Make sure to book a table at Na Sušaku, a popular restaurant in Rijeka. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Rijeka at Konoba Ive, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Lovorka Restaurant. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Rijeka tonight.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Rijeka. The bars in Rijeka make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Continue your lively evening at Pet Jedan Tapas Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. "Metropolis" Caffe Bar & Night Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Caffe Bar Kosi Toranj ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Croatia!

On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia, you’ll go deep into Rijeka, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Rijeka, and meet locals along the way!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Kružna ulica, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 5 out of 5 stars in 3 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Venetian House. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 25 travelers.

Church of Our Lady of Lourdes is another must-visit attraction. This renowned church offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 376 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Rijeka by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Croatia. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Rijeka, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Dine in style at Bistro Mornar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, King’s Caffe food pub boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Konoba Tarsa. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Rijeka.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Rijeka’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Croatia.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Public pub. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Kancelarija Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Beertija Klub, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Croatia!

Day 5 of your self-drive tour in Croatia is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the town of Ogulin and end it in the city of Karlovac County. You’ll stay in Karlovac County for 2 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Croatia.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Rijeka, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Ogulin may take around 1 hour 13 min. Upon your arrival in Ogulin, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Ivana's House of Fairy Tales. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,144 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Oštarije, 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 Ogulin to Oštarije may take around 8 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Oštarije, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Drop by the renowned Marmont's bridge. This popular sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 121 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Oštarije, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Duga Resa may take around 40 min. Upon your arrival in Duga Resa, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Šetnja Sunčevim sustavom. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 150 visitors.

In the city of Karlovac County, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Croatia.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Karlovac County has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

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

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Karlovac County and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Choco Caffe Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Kazališna kavana, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, R Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in the city of Karlovac County and visit amazing attractions in Croatia that travel enthusiasts from around the world often include in their itineraries. Today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in Croatia.

Nova Kršlja’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Karlovac County behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 15 min. Nova Kršlja welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Caves of Barać. This show cave is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 1,099 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Drežnik Grad. This drive usually takes around 13 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make Drežnik (Old Town) one of your first sightseeing stops in Drežnik Grad. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 737 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Set your GPS to Selište Drežničko and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Selište Drežničko beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready to see some sights, Adrenalin park Plitvice is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 348 visitors.

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

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

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

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Karlovac County. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Caffe bar Bingo after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Papa's Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Yummy Street Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip across Croatia promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Karlovac County and drive in the direction of the village of Brođani for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the town of Ozalj, where you’ll stay for 4 nights.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Nikola Tesla Experience Center Karlovac. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 244 visitors.

When you’re finished at Nikola Tesla Experience Center Karlovac, head to Drveni Most. This one-of-a-kind point of interest is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 284 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Aquatika. This aquarium is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,376 visitors.

After soaking in Karlovac County’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Brođani. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 18 min. When you arrive in Brođani, it's time to take a break from the road.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Historical Grain Boat. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 432 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Ozalj, 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 Brođani to Ozalj may take around 38 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Ozalj, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Ozalj. This town is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,650 reviews.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Croatia at Zagreb. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Zagreb, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, a top-rated dining spot in Zagreb. If you're in the mood for something new, try Roots - juice & cocktail bar, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Cheese Bar. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zagreb.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Zagreb and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Booze and Blues offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Krolo is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Valhalla beer bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Zagreb!

Day 8 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Zagreb, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Croatia are extraordinary.

Take the opportunity to see Bundek. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,257 visitors.

Croatian Museum of Contemporary Art is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This art museum has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,598 travelers.

Zagreb is also the home of Zagreb Fountains. Around 2,216 people have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Croatian Association of Fine Artists. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 1,976 reviews, a visit to this art gallery is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Zagreb is also your chance to admire Zagreb Central Mosque. This must-visit mosque enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,209 reviews.

Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular activities to choose from in Croatia.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Pri zvoncu, a top-rated dining destination in Zagreb. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restoran Vegehop, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mali Medo. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zagreb this evening.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Zagreb and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Round off your dining experience by visiting A’e Craft Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Mr. Fogg, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Swanky Monkey Garden likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Zagreb can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Croatia!

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip through Croatia means 24 hours of making the best memories in Zagreb. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Zagreb!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like St. Mark's Church. This extraordinary church building has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,070 visitors.

Next, make your way to Stone Gate. This city gate is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,640 reviews.

While in Zagreb, we also recommend a visit to Museum of Broken Relationships. This museum has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 7,032 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Lotrščak Tower. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,513 travelers, this fortified tower is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Zagreb.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 9 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Croatia. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Zagreb itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Zagreb has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Pivnica Medvedgrad Ilica, a top-rated dining destination in Zagreb. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider HERITAGE - Croatian Street Food & Shop, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Submarine Burger Frankopanska. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zagreb this evening.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Zagreb.

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

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!

On day 10 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia, you’ll go deep into Zagreb, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Zagreb, and meet locals along the way!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb. This much-appreciated sightseeing destination is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,026 reviews.

Next up is Art Pavilion in Zagreb. This art museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,491 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Ice Park Zagreb. This sightseeing destination has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,400 reviews.

Park Maksimir is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 19,379 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Zagreb Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 24,176 reviews.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Croatia. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Croatia and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Exploring the food culture in Zagreb offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Dubravkin put, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Zelen Dvor? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Harat's Pub as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Zagreb.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Zagreb. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Program Bar, a top-rated bar in the area.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Croatia.

On day 11 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Croatia. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Croatia.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Ban Josip Jelačić Statue. This much-appreciated sightseeing destination is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,840 reviews.

Next up is Zagreb Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 16,419 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Ribnjak Park. This park has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,293 reviews.

Botanical Garden of the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,593 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Technical Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,294 reviews.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Rijeka. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Croatia by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Croatia. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Rijeka, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Konoba Fiume, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Submarine Burger Rijeka offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Na Kantunu Tavern. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Rijeka.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Rijeka. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting River, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Celtic Caffe Bard is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Milord Pub also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Croatia!