7-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pula traveling east to Senj, Zadar, Lika-Senj County, and Zagreb

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Photo of scenic aerial view of Pula, Croatia.
Photo of Summer scenic view of ancient ruins Roman Amphitheatre in Pula.
7-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pula traveling east to Senj, Zadar, Lika-Senj County, and Zagreb
7-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pula traveling east to Senj, Zadar, Lika-Senj County, and Zagreb
7-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pula traveling east to Senj, Zadar, Lika-Senj County, and Zagreb
7-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pula traveling east to Senj, Zadar, Lika-Senj County, and Zagreb
7-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pula traveling east to Senj, Zadar, Lika-Senj County, and Zagreb
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Explore the best of Croatia on a remarkable 7-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Pula, Senj, Krasno, Zadar, Lika-Senj County, Zagreb, and Rijeka.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Croatia. You will spend 2 nights in Pula, 1 night in Senj, 1 night in Zadar, 1 night in Lika-Senj County, and 1 night in Zagreb. 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 you covered.

Upon arriving in Pula, 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. Pula Arena and Sea Organ are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Pula, Senj, Krasno, Zadar, Lika-Senj County, Zagreb, 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, accommodations, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Day1

Day 1

  • Pula - Arrival day
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  • Pula Arena
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Welcome to Pula, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Croatia! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night discovering what to see in Pula before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Pula 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 Pula Arena. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Pula. Make yourself at home and unwind before heading out again.

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 Pula, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Pizzeria Samantha, a top-rated dining destination in Pula. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Fresh Sandwiches and Salads, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bistro Romantic Alley. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Pula this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Beach Bar Laplaya, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Shipyard Pub, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Zeppelin - Beach & Lounge Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Croatia!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Pula
  • Senj
  • More

Drive 180 km, 2 hours 34 min

  • Fortress Kaštel / Castello
  • Forum Square
  • Temple of Augustus
  • Aquarium Pula
  • More

On day 2 of your road trip in Croatia, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Pula are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Senj, where you will stay for 1 night.

To truly experience Pula, make sure to drop by Pula Citadel. This frequently visited castle is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Forum Square, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Temple Of Augustus, one of the most locally renowned places to see in Pula. This monument is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Aquarium Pula. Wander around and soak in the visually striking atmosphere this aquarium offers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Senj, 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 Senj. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Make sure to reserve a table at Pizzeria King, an iconic dining spot in Senj. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bistro i Caffe bar "Kod tri mornara", a popular restaurant in Senj. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurant Uskok, a hidden gem nestled in Senj. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Pirassa Caffe Gelateria. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Cafe Bar Julijus, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Erna provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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Day3

Day 3

  • Senj
  • Krasno
  • Zadar
  • More

Drive 203 km, 3 hours 30 min

  • Nehaj Fortress
  • House Velebit
  • Kolovare Beach
  • Roman Forum
  • Church of St. Donatus
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Senj, Krasno, and Zadar. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zadar, where will spend 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the curiosity-inducing Nehaj Fortress and allow yourself time to explore.

Set your GPS to Krasno and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 44 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Krasno beckons with new experiences!

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Velebit House, a frequently visited visitor center that everyone visiting Krasno should see.

After soaking in Krasno’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Zadar. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 51 min. When you arrive in Zadar, it's time to take a break from the road.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Kolovare Beach, an intriguing beach that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Roman Forum and admire its breathtaking features.

When you’re ready, continue to Church Of St. Donatus, a curiosity-inducing church beloved by locals and tourists alike.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Zadar. Zadar offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Zadar is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Zadar.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Yachting Bar & Club, known for its lively atmosphere. Caffe Bar Porthos is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Factory Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

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Day4

Day 4

  • Zadar
  • Lika-Senj
  • More

Drive 244 km, 3 hours 20 min

  • Market Zadar
  • People's Square
  • The Greeting to the Sun
  • Sea organ
  • Krka National Park
  • More

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Zadar. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Lika-Senj County, where you'll spend 1 night.

Experience Market Zadar, an intriguing market in the city. Then, head to Narodni Trg and soak in the ambiance of this enchanting public square.

There are many interesting places to see in Zadar, and when you are ready for more, go to Monument To The Sun. This is one of the city’s most frequently visited enchanting spots of interest. After exploring the art installation, visit the widely recognized Sea Organ.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Krka National Park, an impressive national park in Zadar. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lika-Senj County. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Lika-Senj County's best restaurants.

Dine in style at The Highlanders pub, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Kavana Milinković boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Lika-Senj County.

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

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

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Day5

Day 5

  • Lika-Senj
  • Zagreb
  • More

Drive 212 km, 2 hours 44 min

  • Bundek City Park
  • Park Maksimir
  • Zagreb Zoo
  • Lotrščak Tower
  • More

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Zagreb. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Zagreb, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lika-Senj County and set your GPS to Zagreb. 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 58 min. Upon reaching Zagreb, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Bundek, a well-known park that everyone visiting Zagreb should see. Next, head to Park Maksimir. This romantic park is one of the most captivating attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Zagreb Zoo, a picture-perfect zoo popular among locals as well as travelers. Lotrščak Tower is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this locally appreciated historical landmark before you continue your journey.

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.

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 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 Tesla New Generation, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Caffe Bar Destino is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Booze And Blues also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day6

Day 6

  • Zagreb
  • Rijeka
  • Pula
  • More

Drive 280 km, 3 hours 33 min

  • Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
  • Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb
  • Trsat Castle
  • More

Your itinerary for day 6 of your road trip in Croatia includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Zagreb and Rijeka. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Pula, where you'll spend 1 night.

Awaiting your discovery is the notable Ban Josip Jelačić Statue, a noteworthy monument in Zagreb. Next, go to Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Zagreb and set your GPS to Rijeka. 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 51 min. Upon reaching Rijeka, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Trsat Castle and explore the visually striking features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Pula. Pula offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Pula's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Fine fast food Piantina, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Street Food Two offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restoran "Stari grad 02". Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Pula.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Ulysses, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Caffe Bar "dvojka" provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bolero offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Head back to your accommodation in Pula and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia.

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Day7

Day 7

  • Pula - Departure day
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  • Lighting Giants
  • More

Day 7 of your road trip in Croatia is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Pula before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Lighting Giants. This often recommended art installation is a hotspot among locals.

For a last-minute shopping spree in Pula, Kandlerova Street is nearby. Enjoy a variety of retail stores, dining options, and essential services in one convenient location. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home. When you need a break, visit a cafe and relax with a cup of coffee or tea.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Epulon Food & Wine, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Dva Ferala is another top choice with a popular menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Pula. 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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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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