12-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zagreb traveling west to Rijeka, Pula, Senj, Grad Benkovac, Split, and Zadar

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Zagreb for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Zagreb allows for both. Start by heading to Park Maksimir. This popular park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Zagreb Zoo, an instagrammable zoo, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Zagreb Cathedral, a locally renowned church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the popular Ban Josip Jelačić Statue.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Croatia is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

Experience shopping bliss at Zagreb as you explore Arena Centar. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Arena Centar offers more options, including a cinema, restaurants, cafes, unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.

As you explore more of Zagreb, 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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Tač in Zagreb by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Tač delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious traditional cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Noel, acclaimed for its delectable modern specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Beštija, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated Bib Gourmand-establishment, it's a top choice for contemporary cuisine in the city.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Krolo, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Kavana Corso is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Valhalla Beer Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Zagreb. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Rijeka, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Zagreb. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Museum Of Broken Relationships is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most intriguing places to visit in Zagreb. Next, head to Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb, a beloved performing arts theater, known for its historic features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb. This romantic botanical garden is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Bundek. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Rijeka's best restaurants.

Start your culinary exploration in Rijeka by securing a reservation at Nebo by Deni Srdoč. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Capote y Ole. , a popular restaurant in Rijeka. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Charlie Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Wine Bar "kod Zajca" offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001 provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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 4 of your road trip in Croatia, you’ll start and end your day in Rijeka, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Rijeka for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Rijeka, Opatija, and Vela Učka to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Korzo is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic street in Rijeka, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

Begin your adventure at Trsat Castle. This is a locally renowned castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat, an underrated church in Rijeka.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Maiden With The Seagull. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Nature Park Učka, another of the city’s curiosity-inducing attractions.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Trattoria Krug, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Zelena Dolina? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Buffet "Cocco" as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Rijeka.

Continue your lively evening at Teatro Lounge Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Book Caffe Dnevni Boravak is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Pub "bačva" ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Gedići, Rovinj, and Fažana, 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 Pula. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Rijeka, including a cave, a church, and a beach. Start your day with a visit to Baredine Cave. This curiosity-inducing cave is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Church Of St. Euphemia, which may be one of the most enchanting places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Rijeka on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Fasana, an often recommended beach in the village.

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Pizzeria Samantha, a highly-rated dining destination in Pula. If you're eager to try something different, consider Fresh Sandwiches and Salads, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bistro Romantic Alley. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Pula this evening.

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

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

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Pula Citadel. This worthwhile castle is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Forum Square, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Temple Of Augustus, one of the most interesting places to see in Pula. This monument is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Aquarium Pula. Wander around and soak in the instagrammable atmosphere this aquarium offers. Then, head to Pula Arena, a top-rated archeological site that adds another dimension to your day.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Senj. Check in and spend some time relaxing 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 an authentic adventure.

Don’t miss out on dining at Pizzeria King, a top-rated dining destination in Senj. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bistro i Caffe bar "Kod tri mornara", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Uskok. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Senj this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Pirassa Caffe Gelateria, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Cafe Bar Julijus is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Erna is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 7 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 Senj and Grad Biograd na Moru. In the evening, you’ll end up in Grad Benkovac, where you will stay for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Senj, featuring family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at Velika Vrata, an up-and-coming monument in the town. Then, head to Park Nehaj and soak in the ambiance of this picture-perfect castle.

There are many interesting places to see in Senj, and when you are ready for more, go to Nehaj Fortress. This is one of the town’s most up-and-coming instagrammable spots of interest. After exploring the castle, visit the up-and-coming Town Of Biograd. Not far away, you'll also find Plaža Soline. This beach is an eye-catching highlight in Senj.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Grad Benkovac. Grad Benkovac 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 Grad Benkovac. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Bogatić, Grad Skradin, and Primošten. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Split, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Start by visiting Roski Waterfall, a prime spot to begin your journey. This peaceful waterfall is sure to impress. Next on your list is Krka National Park, another must-visit landmark and spectacular national park renowned for its instagrammable features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Grad Benkovac by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Skradinski Buk. This romantic waterfall is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Grad Benkovac experience. We also recommend visiting Beach Mala Raduča, an up-and-coming beach.

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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Split. 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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Split by securing a table at Šug. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional regional menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Perivoj restoran i kavana, another premier location with a delectable menu.

Continue your lively evening at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. La Linea is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Fabrique Pub ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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 10 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Zadar, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Zadar, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Diocletian's Palace, an extraordinary palace in the city. Then, head to Golden Gate and soak in the ambiance of this photogenic historical landmark.

There are many interesting places to see in Zadar, and when you are ready for more, go to Froggyland. This is one of the city’s most beloved picture-perfect spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the locally renowned Marjan.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Zadar's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, an iconic dining spot in Zadar. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, a popular restaurant in Zadar. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurant 2Ribara, a hidden gem nestled in Zadar. 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. Pirate Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Caffe Bar Bizarre, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Backstage Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Croatia!

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Zadar and Karlovac County, 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 Zagreb. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Zadar’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Market Zadar. This picture-perfect market is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the respected 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 Roman Forum, a curiosity-inducing archeological site. For a change of scene, check out Sea Organ, known for its culturally significant features. We also recommend visiting Nikola Tesla Experience Center Karlovac. This museum is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Roots - juice & cocktail bar, a popular restaurant in Zagreb. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zagreb at La Štruk, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Tagliata. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zagreb tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at A’e Craft Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Budbar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Mr. Fogg provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!