6-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rijeka traveling east to Šibenik and Zadar

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Rijeka. You’ll stay in Rijeka for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Rijeka allows for both. Start by heading to Trsat Castle. This locally renowned castle provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat, a visually striking church, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Petar Kružić Stairway, a worthwhile monument. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the often recommended Maritime And History Museum Of The Croatian Coast.

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.

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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Rijeka by booking a table at Nebo by Deni Srdoč, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern and creative menu. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Zelena Dolina, a popular restaurant in Rijeka. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

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.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Senj and Smiljan. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Šibenik, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Senj promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences!

When you’ve had your share of Rijeka, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Senj. Your travel time is around 1 hour 3 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Plaža Prva Draga. Spend some time admiring the serene features of the beach before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Nehaj Fortress. This curiosity-inducing castle is a traveler-favorite in the town.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Smiljan. This car ride takes around 1 hour 14 min.

Make your way to Nikola Tesla Memorial Center, an up-and-coming museum that draws attention for its history-steeped features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Šibenik. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Šibenik by booking a table at Pelegrini, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Fry Guy, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Caffe Palma, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Mystic offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Azimut. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Primošten and Grad Skradin, 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 Zadar. You’ll stay here 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 Primošten. This drive usually takes around 32 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Head to Beach Mala Raduča, an underrated beach in Primošten. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Statue Of Our Lady Of Loreto. This beloved monument is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’ve had your share of Primošten, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Grad Skradin. Your travel time is around 1 hour 15 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Skradinski Buk, a frequently visited waterfall known for its serene features.

Krka National Park is an extraordinary national park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its mesmerizing features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Pizzeria Šime, a top-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Harvatski restorant "Galiya", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Yachting Bar & Club offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Caffe Bar Porthos is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The Factory Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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 Zadar. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rijeka, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a photogenic, a romantic, a breathtaking, a standout, a stunning, a symbolic, and a noteworthy. Whether you decide to explore Zadar on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Market Zadar is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this instagrammable market before continuing your journey. Narodni Trg is your next stop. This increasingly popular public square is one of the best-rated sights in Zadar.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Church Of St. Donatus. This heritage-rich church is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Sea Organ.

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

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

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

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.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!