6-Day Croatia Road Trip from Zagreb traveling west to Rijeka, Pula, and Senj

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 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Zagreb 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 Park Maksimir 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 Zagreb. 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 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.

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 Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, a highly-rated dining destination in Zagreb. If you're eager to try something different, consider Roots - juice & cocktail bar, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cheese Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zagreb this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Booze and Blues, known for its lively atmosphere. Krolo is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Valhalla beer bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Zagreb. 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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Rijeka, 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 Zagreb to Rijeka may take around 1 hour 46 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Rijeka, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Journey into the unknown at Ban Josip Jelačić Statue, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,840 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Zagreb Cathedral is a recommended place to visit. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 16,419 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Zagreb is Zagreb Zoo. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 24,176 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Zagreb offers an experience you will remember.

Bundek is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Zagreb. This lake promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.7 out of 5 stars in 15,257 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Rijeka, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you explore more of Rijeka, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Capote y Ole. , 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 Seafood restaurant Feral, 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 Conca d'oro, a hidden gem nestled in Rijeka. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Charlie Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Wine bar "kod Zajca" offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Phanas Pub Rijeka est.2001 provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Gedići, Rošini, Rovinj, and Fažana, 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 Pula. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

After soaking in Rošini’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Gedići. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 10 min. When you arrive in Gedići, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Baredine Cave, a remarkable show cave where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,737 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Rijeka and set your GPS to Rošini. 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 21 min. Upon reaching Rošini, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to MOTODROM POREC. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,748 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Pula, 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 Pula.

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 Pizzeria Samantha, a highly-rated dining destination in Pula. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restoran "Stari grad 02", another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Epulon Food & Wine. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Pula this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Beach Bar LaPlaya, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Shipyard Pub is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Zeppelin - Beach & lounge bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day 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 1 vibrant destinations - Pula. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Senj. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Pula.

Make Pula Arena your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this roman amphitheatre an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 58,989 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Forum Square. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,776 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this sightseeing destination every year.

Temple of Augustus is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This archaeological site has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,021 visitors.

When you’re finished at Temple of Augustus, the perfect next stop is Aquarium Pula. This aquarium is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,849 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Senj. Senj 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.

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

This -awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Pizzeria King, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bistro i Caffe bar "Kod tri mornara" is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant Uskok. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Senj tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Pirassa Caffe Gelateria stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Cafe Bar Julijus offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Erna is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 Senj and Grad Krapina. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zagreb, where you will stay for 1 night.

Grad Krapina’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Senj behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 12 min. Grad Krapina welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Senj City Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 120 reviews.

Continue your journey at Plaža Prva Draga. This point of interest is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,086 travelers from near and far.

Senj is also the home of Nehaj Fortress. This fortress has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,558 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Grad Krapina, 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 Senj to Grad Krapina may take around 2 hours 12 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Grad Krapina, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Kick off the day at Museum of Neandertals in Krapina, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,655 reviews.

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

This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. With a recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed. Don’t miss out on dining at Pri zvoncu, a top-rated dining destination in Zagreb. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restoran Vegehop, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mali Medo. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zagreb this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like A’e Craft Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Mr. Fogg is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Swanky Monkey Garden offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

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. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Croatia. Take home a piece of Croatia with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

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

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 Pivnica Medvedgrad Ilica, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, HERITAGE - Croatian Street Food & Shop beckons with its unique menu offerings.

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!