6-Day Croatia Road Trip from Rijeka traveling south to Zadar

Your road trip adventure in Croatia begins as soon as you reach Rijeka and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Rijeka for 3 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Rijeka 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 City Clock Tower 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 Rijeka. 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 Rijeka. 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 symphony of flavors at Nebo by Deni Srdoč in Rijeka by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Nebo by Deni Srdoč delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern and creative cuisine. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Seafood restaurant Feral? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Conca d'oro as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Rijeka.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Charlie Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Wine bar "kod Zajca" is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Phanas Pub Rijeka est.2001 also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Croatia!

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Rijeka has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Rijeka by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Trsat Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,592 visitors.

When you’re finished at Trsat Castle, head to Church of Mary of God of Trsat. This one-of-a-kind church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 2,505 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Maritime and History Museum of the Croatian Coast. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,049 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Islamic Center of Rijeka. This mosque is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 969 visitors.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant 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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Teatro Lounge Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Book caffe Dnevni boravak is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Pub "Bačva" provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip in Croatia. With 1 night left in Rijeka, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Pula. This car ride takes around 1 hour 33 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Aquarium Pula. This aquarium is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,849 reviews.

Continue your journey at Forum Square. This sightseeing destination is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,776 travelers from near and far.

Pula is also the home of Temple of Augustus. This archaeological site has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,021 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Pula Arena. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 58,989 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Rijeka.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Na Sušaku, 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 Konoba Ive, 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 Lovorka Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Rijeka. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Pet Jedan Tapas Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of "Metropolis" Caffe Bar & Night Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Caffe Bar Kosi Toranj likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Senj, Općina Jasenice, Rupine, and Parići. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zadar. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Set your GPS to Senj and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 1 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Senj beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Nehaj Fortress. This extraordinary fortress is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,558 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Senj, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Općina Jasenice may take around 1 hour 37 min. Upon your arrival in Općina Jasenice, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Maslenica Bridge. This deck arch bridge is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 3,555 visitors.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Pizzeria Šime, 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 Хърватски ресторант "Галия", 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 Restoran Zadar - Jadera, a hidden gem nestled in Zadar. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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 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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Market Zadar. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,657 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Sea organ. This tide organ has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 57,178 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Roman Forum. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,709 visitors.

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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Rijeka.

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

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Public pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Kancelarija Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Beertija Klub also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Day 6 of your road trip in Croatia is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Rijeka before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

On your last day in Croatia, take time to indulge in shopping at Rijeka’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Croatia. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Croatia forever.

Drop by the renowned Petar Kružić Stairway. This popular sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 806 visitors.

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Submarine Burger Rijeka, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Rijeka. 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!