Relaxed 14-Day Croatia Road Trip from Zagreb to Rijeka, Pula, and Karlovac County

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

Kick off the day at Lotrščak Tower, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This fortified tower is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,584 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Museum Of Broken Relationships. Museum Of Broken Relationships is a museum with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 7,174 reviews.

Stone Gate is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This city gate is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,706 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit St. Mark's Church. This church building is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,135 visitors.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Zagreb, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available for your relaxed road trip across Croatia.

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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Tač, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible traditional menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Noel is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Zagreb. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Beštija. As a top-rated establishment with a Bib Gourmand status, it is an ideal choice for contemporary cuisine in the city.

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

Cap off your dinner by heading to Krolo, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Kavana Corso is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Valhalla Beer Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Croatia.

On day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia, you’ll go deep into Zagreb, where you'll stay for 2 nights, 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!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Ribnjak Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,349 reviews.

Continue your journey at Zagreb Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 16,501 travelers from near and far.

Zagreb is also the home of Ban Josip Jelačić Statue. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,166 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,694 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Technical Museum. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,422 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this museum.

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.

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 Zagreb, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Make sure to reserve a table at Batak Grill, an iconic dining spot in Zagreb. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of GOSTIONICA RESTORAN PURGER, a popular restaurant in Zagreb. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Cheese Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Zagreb. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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 Zagreb. The bars in Zagreb make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to A’e Craft Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Budbar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Mr. Fogg provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through Croatia means 24 hours of making the best memories in Zagreb. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Zagreb. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Zagreb!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Park Maksimir. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 19,618 reviews.

Next up is Zagreb Zoo. This zoo has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 24,493 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Croatian Museum Of Contemporary Art. This art museum has been rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 3,640 reviews.

Bundek is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This lake has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,435 reviews.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 4 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 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restoran ZLATNA ŠKOLJKA, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, RougeMarin offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Otto & Frank is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Zagreb.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Croatia.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Esplanade 1925 Lounge & Cocktail Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Carpe Diem provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Regular. Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Croatia will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Croatia, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Bela Vodica’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Lokve behind. This drive usually takes around 20 min. Bela Vodica welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Kick off the day at Forest Park Golubinjak, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,549 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bela Vodica. This car ride takes around 20 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Risnjak National Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,871 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Bela Vodica, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Vela Učka. Your travel time is around 1 hour 10 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Nature Park Učka. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 4,524 reviews.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Rijeka in this laid-back road trip in Croatia. You'll stay here for 3 nights.

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 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 Restaurant Capote y Ole. , a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

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

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Charlie Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Wine Bar "kod Zajca" is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001 offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!

Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Rijeka, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Croatia are extraordinary.

Journey into the unknown at Trsat Castle, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable castle has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,774 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Islamic Center Of Rijeka is a recommended place to visit. This mosque is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 991 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Rijeka is Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,546 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Rijeka offers an experience you will remember.

Petar Kružić Stairway is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Rijeka. This sightseeing destination promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.6 out of 5 stars in 812 reviews.

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.

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.

Dine in style at Trattoria Krug, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Zelena Dolina boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Buffet "Cocco". Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Rijeka.

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

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.

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

On day 7 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!

When you're ready to see some sights, City Clock Tower is a great place to start. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,363 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Rijeka Cathedral. This cathedral has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 803 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Natural History Museum Rijeka. The natural history museum has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 816 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Maritime And History Museum Of The Croatian Coast. This museum is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,063 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restoran Morčić, a highly-rated dining destination in Rijeka. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bowling Center Rijeka, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Seafood restaurant Feral. 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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Pet Jedan Tapas Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to "metropolis" Caffe Bar & Night Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Caffe Bar Kosi Toranj provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Rijeka as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Croatia with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Croatia!

On day 8 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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Gedići, 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 Rijeka to Gedići may take around 1 hour 16 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Gedići, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Baredine Cave. This much-appreciated show cave is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,951 reviews.

Set your GPS to Rošini and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Rošini beckons with new experiences!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Motodrom Porec, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,819 reviews.

After soaking in Rošini’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Rovinj. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 47 min. When you arrive in Rovinj, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take the opportunity to see Church Of St. Euphemia. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,356 visitors.

Park Forest Zlatni Rt is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 6,359 travelers.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Pula. 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.

Exploring the food culture in Pula 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Pizzeria Samantha, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Fresh Sandwiches and Salads is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bistro Romantic Alley. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Pula 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 Pula. The bars in Pula make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Beach Bar Laplaya, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Shipyard Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Zeppelin - Beach & Lounge Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Day 10 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Pula, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Croatia are extraordinary.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Aquarium Pula. This aquarium is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Pula, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,309 visitors.

Verudela Canyon is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,657 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Crkvica, Verudela. Visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 111 reviews.

Galebijana Cave is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a point of interest rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 734 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Šijana/siana Forest, perhaps the most famous park in Pula. This attraction is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,201 travelers.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Epulon Food & Wine, a top-rated dining spot in Pula. If you're in the mood for something new, try Dva Ferala, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Rendez-vous. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Pula.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

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

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Croatia!

Day 11 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Croatia is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. You’ll stay in Karlovac County for 2 nights.

Journey into the unknown at Pula Citadel, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,699 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Historical And Maritime Museum Of Istria is a recommended place to visit. This museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,868 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Pula is Zerostrasse. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 995 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Pula offers an experience you will remember.

Istrian Olive Oil Museum is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Pula. This museum promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.7 out of 5 stars in 523 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Pula Arena. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 60,294 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Karlovac County. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

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 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 satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Karlovac County this evening.

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

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Choco Caffe Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Kazališna Kavana, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, R Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 12 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Karlovac County and visit amazing attractions in Rastoke, Selište Drežničko, Drežnik Grad, and Nova Kršlja destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Karlovac County. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Rastoke, 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 Karlovac County to Rastoke may take around 47 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Rastoke, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make Stari Mlin (old Mill) your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,016 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Rastoke, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Selište Drežničko. This drive usually takes around 24 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Zipline Plitvice, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 369 reviews.

After soaking in Selište Drežničko’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Drežnik Grad. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 8 min. When you arrive in Drežnik Grad, it's time to take a break from the road.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Drežnik (old Town). Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 756 reviews.

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

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 Karlovac County, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Konoba Kostanjac, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Castle Bistro? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Tornado as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Karlovac County.

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 Karlovac County. The bars in Karlovac County make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Caffe Bar Bingo, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Papa's Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Karlovac County. Yummy Street Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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