6-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zagreb traveling west to Rijeka

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Explore the best of Croatia on a 6-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Zagreb, Sopač, Vela Učka, Opatija, and Rijeka. This road trip itinerary in Croatia seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Croatia takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 4 nights in Zagreb and 1 night in Rijeka. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Croatia. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.

Upon arriving in Zagreb, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Croatia on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Croatia. Zagreb Zoo and Ban Josip Jelačić Statue are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Park Maksimir, learn more about the unique Zagreb Cathedral, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Bundek.

As you hit the open road and drive through Zagreb, Sopač, Vela Učka, Opatija, and Rijeka, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Croatia. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Croatia.

Throughout your road trip in Croatia, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Croatia.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Croatia fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Croatia today!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Park MaksimirZagreb ZooBotanical Garden of the Faculty of Science, University of ZagrebBundek City ParkLower Town (Donji Grad)
Stone GateBan Josip Jelačić StatueCathedral of ZagrebRibnjak ParkUpper Town (Gornji Grad)
Forest Park GolubinjakRisnjak National ParkPark Prirode Učka
City Clock TowerMaritime and History Museum of the Croatian CoastChurch of Mary of God of TrsatTrsat Castle
Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Zagreb - Arrival day
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Say hello to Zagreb! 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 Zagreb for 3 nights before you continue your adventure!

Zagreb is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Zagreb. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Zagreb, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Zinfandel's Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Esplanade Zagreb Hotel? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Rougemarin City as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Zagreb.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Tesla New Generation, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Caffe Bar Destino. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Booze And Blues, another top-rated place in the area.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Zagreb
  • More

Drive 23 km, 1 hour 4 min

  • Park Maksimir
  • Zagreb Zoo
  • Botanical Garden of the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb
  • Bundek City Park
  • Lower Town (Donji Grad)
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip across Croatia promises a magnificent time exploring Zagreb. You have 2 nights left in Zagreb. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Don’t miss Lower Town (Donji Grad) in Zagreb today, a must-see neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time exploring its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.

Start by visiting Park Maksimir, a prime spot to begin your journey. This serene park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Zagreb Zoo, another must-visit landmark and interesting zoo renowned for its instagrammable features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Zagreb by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb. This serene botanical garden is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Bundek also adds charm to your journey.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Zagreb. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Zagreb by booking a table at Tač. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of traditional cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Noel, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Beštija, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing contemporary menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

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.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Zagreb
  • More

Drive 2 km, 34 min

  • Stone Gate
  • Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
  • Cathedral of Zagreb
  • Ribnjak Park
  • Upper Town (Gornji Grad)
  • More

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Zagreb for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Upper Town (Gornji Grad), a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Zagreb. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and picturesque spots in the charming city of Zagreb. Your adventure starts at Stone Gate, a frequently visited local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Ban Josip Jelačić Statue. This locally renowned monument is known for its picture-perfect appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Zagreb's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Zagreb Cathedral. This historic church offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Ribnjak Park is also worth visiting.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at La Štruk, a top-rated dining destination in Zagreb. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tagliata, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Batak Grill. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zagreb this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at A’e Craft Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Budbar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Mr. Fogg, another top-rated place in the area.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Zagreb
  • Vela Učka
  • Rijeka
  • More

Drive 267 km, 4 hours 7 min

  • Forest Park Golubinjak
  • Risnjak National Park
  • Park Prirode Učka
  • More

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

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Sopač and set your GPS to Bela Vodica. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 20 min. Upon reaching Bela Vodica, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Forest Park Golubinjak is an underrated park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its awe-inspiring features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bela Vodica. This drive usually takes around 20 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make your way to Risnjak National Park, an often recommended national park that draws attention for its mesmerizing features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bela Vodica and set your GPS to Vela Učka. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 10 min. Upon reaching Vela Učka, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Nature Park Učka, a curiosity-inducing nature reserve known for its majestic features.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Rijeka. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Rijeka by reserving a table at Nebo by Deni Srdoč. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern and creative cuisine. Looking for something different? Restaurant Capote y Ole. Offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Rijeka.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Charlie Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Wine Bar "kod Zajca" for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001 is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Say good night to Rijeka and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Rijeka
  • Zagreb
  • More

Drive 169 km, 2 hours 35 min

  • City Clock Tower
  • Maritime and History Museum of the Croatian Coast
  • Church of Mary of God of Trsat
  • Trsat Castle
  • More

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 Rijeka. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zagreb, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Rijeka includes a monument, a museum, a church, a castle and much more! City Clock Tower is must-visit monument and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Maritime And History Museum Of The Croatian Coast, an up-and-coming museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat, a historic church, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Rijeka. If you’re looking for more, Trsat Castle is also an interesting attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Zagreb, 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 Zagreb. 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.

Savor the flavors at Museum of Broken Relationships, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, GOSTIONICA RESTORAN PURGER beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Cheese Bar. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zagreb tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Esplanade 1925 Lounge & Cocktail Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Carpe Diem offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Regular. Bar. 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.

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Zagreb - Departure day
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  • Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb
  • More

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

Make the most of your final day in Croatia by visiting Zagreb’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Arena Centar. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Croatia. Savor your final moments in Croatia at a cozy cafe while relaxing with a cup of coffee or tea.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb. This often recommended performing arts theater is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience.

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

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.

You’ll then say farewell to Zagreb. 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!

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