5-Day Croatia Road Trip from Zadar traveling west to Rijeka

Say hello to Zadar! Your exciting road trip through Croatia is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Zadar for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Zadar is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Sea organ or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Zadar. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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

Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of cuisine. This esteemed -recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. With its recognition, it guarantees an unforgettable dining adventure. Savor the flavors at Pizzeria Šime, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Хърватски ресторант "Галия" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restoran Zadar - Jadera. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zadar tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Yachting Bar & Club after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Caffe bar Porthos for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, The Factory Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Croatia!

On day 2 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 Zadar. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rijeka, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Rijeka. This car ride takes around 3 hours 8 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Market Zadar. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,657 visitors.

When you’re finished at Market Zadar, head to Church of St. Donatus. This one-of-a-kind church building is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,708 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Narodni trg. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,636 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Rijeka, 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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Rijeka's best restaurants.

Celebrated as a restaurant, it boasts an exceptional menu. This establishment consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Nestled in the city's heart, is a perfect choice for discerning cuisine enthusiasts seeking a new experience. Enjoy a sumptuous meal at Restaurant Capote y Ole. , a highly-rated dining destination in Rijeka. If you're eager to try something different, consider Seafood restaurant Feral, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Conca d'oro. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Rijeka this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Charlie Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Wine bar "kod Zajca" offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Phanas Pub Rijeka est.2001, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Pula. You’ll stay in Pula for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Croatia that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Pula has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Croatia by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Rijeka. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to book a table at Restoran Spagho, a popular restaurant in Rijeka. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Experience a taste of Rijeka at Barbacoa, 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 Konoba Ribica. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Rijeka tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Teatro Lounge Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Book caffe Dnevni boravak for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Pub "Bačva" is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Senj, Rijeka, and Smiljan. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zadar, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

After soaking in Rijeka’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Senj. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 8 min. When you arrive in Senj, it's time to take a break from the road.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Nehaj Fortress. This fortress is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,558 reviews.

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 Senj may take around 1 hour 8 min. Upon your arrival in Senj, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at City Clock Tower. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,349 visitors.

When you’re finished at City Clock Tower, head to Trsat Castle. This one-of-a-kind castle is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,592 reviews.

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.

Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of cuisine. This esteemed -recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. With its recognition, it guarantees an unforgettable dining adventure. Savor the flavors at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Pet Bunara Dine & Wine beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant 2Ribara. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zadar tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Pirate Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. BackStage Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The Garden Lounge is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Day 5 of your road trip in Croatia is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Zadar before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Maximize your last day in Croatia and go on a shopping spree in Zadar’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Croatia, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of Croatia home with you through these charming souvenirs.

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

This local establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Known as a top-rated , it's a top choice in the city. Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Harbor CookHouse & Club, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restoran Urnebes? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Zadar. 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!