7-Day Relaxed Croatia Road Trip from Rijeka to Pula

Your slow-paced and relaxed road trip through Croatia begins when you reach Rijeka, where you’ll stay for a total of 4 nights.

Rijeka is an outstanding hub for culture, comfort, and exploration. The city offers travelers plenty of experiences to look forward to, including the magnificent City Clock Tower. Around 1,339 visitors have rated this fascinating best-rated sightseeing destination and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

When you're done sightseeing for the day, you'll check in at one of the best hotels or places to stay in the city. Take your pick and make it your home during your leisurely tour of the city.

Exploring the food culture in Rijeka offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

An excellent example is Konoba Tarsa. This restaurant offers a menu of comforting meals and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,076 customers.

Barbacoa serves great food and is a favorite among hungry travelers and locals. This popular restaurant in Rijeka has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,487 reviews.

Konoba Fiume is another one of the city’s best restaurants. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 933 customers, Konoba Fiume is sure to provide you with an unforgettable dining experience.

If you’re curious about what Rijeka looks like at night, a trip to some of the best bars near your accommodation is what you need next. Experience the local nightlife at The Beertija Klub, our top recommendation in the city. Customers have rated this bar an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,087 reviews.

Free your mind of worries and enjoy your first taste of relaxation in Croatia! Expect more to come as you continue this laid-back and relaxed road trip in Croatia!

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Croatia, you'll explore the best attractions in Rijeka at your own pace and immerse in the city's unique local culture. Today's laid-back tour features some of the best restaurants and bars in Rijeka, where you can sample some delicious local food.

The accommodation you’ll be staying at for another 3 nights will be conveniently located close to several attractions, like the famous Trsat Castle. This incredible castle has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,516 travelers.

Make the most of your slow-paced travel adventure in Croatia by seeing another popular site in Rijeka, the wonderful Church of Mary of God of Trsat. This church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,516 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Maritime and History Museum of the Croatian Coast. This museum has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,043 visitors.

Another stop you might want to add to your self-drive itinerary is the remarkable Islamic Center of Rijeka. This mosque is sought after by many travelers from around the world. The popular attraction has received 4.7 out of 5 stars from 952 visitors.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 2 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Croatia. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Rijeka itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city. Add a highly recommended tour to your vacation package now and make this refreshing new day of your self-drive through Croatia extra special!

After a long day exploring the popular attractions in the city, it’s time to sample the different kinds of mouthwatering foods served at the best restaurants in Rijeka. One of our top recommendations includes a selection of delicious meals on its menu, Boonker. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,735 customers.

You may also try the variety of dishes served at Bistro Mornar, which is an excellent choice if you want a nice place to eat near your accommodation. Bistro Mornar is rated 4.4 stars out of 5 by 3,156 customers.

After finishing your meal, it’s time to experience the amazing nightlife in Rijeka and unwind at the coolest bars in the city. Drink the night away and celebrate this day of your relaxed road trip at the popular River. This vibrant bar is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,197 customers.

If you want to try a different bar, check out the popular Pet Jedan Tapas Bar. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 898 customers, this bar is a great place to try some excellent liquor.

Another recommendation you shouldn’t miss is Pub "Bačva". Drink up and relax in this amazing bar that serves different kinds of alcoholic beverages and cocktail drinks. Pub "Bačva" has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 781 bar goers.

Enjoy the rest of day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Croatia, and prepare for another day of unhurried adventure!

Today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in Croatia.

From your accommodation, or your home for another 2 nights, you’ll leisurely drive to your first stop of the day, the remarkable Euphrasian Basilica. The famous Euphrasian Basilica has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,713 visitors.

Another popular attraction worthy of a visit while you’re leisurely touring Istria County, is the stunning MOTODROM POREC. As one of the most well-known attractions in the area, MOTODROM POREC has earned an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,706 travelers' reviews.

Take your time exploring Istria County and visit another attraction that we highly recommend, the amazing Baredine Cave. The amazing Baredine Cave has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,659 visitors.

This famous top-tier point of interest is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,206 visitors.

There’s still a lot of things to see and experience in Croatia.

Your relaxed road trip across Croatia continues as you discover more popular sites and explore to your heart’s content.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Croatia more special is by joining unique tours and activities in Croatia. Porec offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you can drive back to your accommodation in the city of Rijeka to rest and refresh yourself after your long adventure.

After relaxing at your hotel, you might want to grab a bite at one of the best restaurants in the city, like the King’s Caffe food pub. This restaurant is a favorite among locals and is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,389 customers.

We also recommend that you try the different dishes served at Submarine Burger Rijeka. This restaurant has many positive reviews which earned it an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,653 food lovers worldwide.

After your meal, it’s time to loosen up and experience the nightlife in Rijeka. Unwind at the amazing Phanas Pub Rijeka est.2001 and get a few glasses of their bestselling liquor. Phanas Pub Rijeka est.2001 is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 753 customers.

Hop on to another top-rated bar in the city and have an amazing night.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day in Croatia with this fun but relaxed road trip escapade!

Day 4 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Croatia gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience two places in one day. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Pula, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 2 nights.

When you’re ready to head to your first attraction of the day, the wonderful Morosini - Grimani Castle is waiting for you. This top-tier point of interest has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,836 visitors.

The next stop on your road trip vacation is Church of Saint Euphemia. This unique church is a highly recommended place to visit, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,222 visitors.

Don’t forget to make a stop at the incredible Golden Cape Forest Park. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,032 visitors, this forest park is one of the top sights to visit in the area.

Another unforgettable travel destination is the outstanding Park forest Zlatni Rt. This popular park and attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 6,231 people.

If you’re keen to continue your discovery, make your way to Fasana. This attraction is a valued shopping mall in the area that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,543 visitors.

Make the most of your relaxed road trip vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Istria County has in store for you. There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your relaxed road trip in Croatia. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

Turn on some soothing tunes in the car because it’s now time to drive to the city of Pula. In Pula, you can choose among the best hotels and places to rest and recharge to complement your relaxed road trip experience in Croatia.

With a lovely menu and an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,550 customers, you can’t go wrong with choosing Veritas Food&Wine.

Locals also recommend Pizzeria Jupiter as one of the top restaurants in the area. So if you’re feeling hungry, don’t forget to check out the menu at Pizzeria Jupiter as well. This local-favorite restaurant is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,601 customers.

If you would like to celebrate your vacation with a drink, we recommend going to a place like Rock Bar Mimoza. Rock Bar Mimoza is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 613 customers and is one of the best bars you can visit tonight.

Another lively bar worth checking out tonight is The Shipyard Pub. This is the perfect place to enjoy a couple of drinks if you want to continue your celebrations. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,622 customers gives you an idea of what to expect from this bar.

Alternatively, head to Zeppelin - Beach & lounge bar. This popular bar will bring up your mood and give you a good ending to your night. Zeppelin - Beach & lounge bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,777 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration and anticipation of your memorable and relaxing road trip adventure through Croatia!

Day 5 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip through Croatia serves as your introduction to Pula. This is your chance to experience the very best of the city and appreciate Croatia and its distinct culture and people.

Upon arriving in Pula, you can check in at the accommodation of your choice for a quick break. This 4-star hotel has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,912 former guests.

You’ll enjoy restful days and nights at the 5-star Grand Hotel Brioni Pula, A Radisson Collection Hotel. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,204 guests, Grand Hotel Brioni Pula, A Radisson Collection Hotel is the best luxury hotel option we recommend while in the city.

The 3-star Scaletta Hotel offers comfort at an affordable price, perfect for practical travelers. Scaletta Hotel is a top-rated budget hotel in Pula with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 886 guests.

These recommendations are among the most popular places to stay in Pula. If any of these options are not available during your stay in the city, we’ll provide you with the best alternatives. Our flexible booking system will automatically offer you a selection of accommodations that fit your budget and needs.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Pula, allowing you to explore the city at a relaxed pace. For example, you can take in the unique atmosphere of the city from the outstanding Temple of Augustus. This archaeological site and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in Pula. The fascinating Temple of Augustus has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 9,904 travelers.

Pula is also home to the captivating Forum Square, a local best-rated sightseeing destination and another popular attraction in the city. About 5,726 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.6 out of 5 stars.

The extraordinary Pula Citadel is another unforgettable place you can visit on your easy and relaxed road trip across Croatia. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,536 travelers, Pula Citadel proves to be one of the top sights in the area.

You’ll enjoy the time you’ll spend at the incredible Pula Arena. A trip to this wonderful site will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing roman amphitheatre and attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 58,562 reviews.

Every year, travelers gather around this fascinating sightseeing spot to appreciate its unique features.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Pula, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available on this day of your relaxed road trip across Croatia.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Croatia. After a day of appreciating the best places to visit in Pula, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Ranking high on our list of the best restaurants in Pula is Konoba Boccaporta. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,823 customers, you really have to try the savory dishes of this excellent restaurant.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Pula. At Hook & Cook Pula, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,587 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your relaxed road trip at Old City Bar Pula, another popular bar in the city. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,368 reviews.

Cabahia is also one of the best places in Pula where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 664 customers.

Sleep comfortably and prepare for another day of your laid-back adventure in Croatia!

Day 6 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Croatia gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience two places in one day. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Rijeka, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

When you’re ready to head to your first attraction of the day, the wonderful Nature Park Učka is waiting for you. This park has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,438 visitors.

The next stop on your road trip vacation is Maiden with the Seagull. This unique sculpture is a highly recommended place to visit, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,947 visitors.

Don’t forget to make a stop at the incredible Forest Park Golubinjak. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,508 visitors, this park is one of the top sights to visit in the area.

Another unforgettable travel destination is the outstanding Risnjak National Park. This popular park and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,815 people.

Make the most of your relaxed road trip vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Rijeka has in store for you. There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your relaxed road trip in Croatia. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

Turn on some soothing tunes in the car because it’s now time to drive to the city of Rijeka. In Rijeka, you can choose among the best hotels and places to rest and recharge to complement your relaxed road trip experience in Croatia.

With a lovely menu and an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,219 customers, you can’t go wrong with choosing Maslina.

If you would like to celebrate your vacation with a drink, we recommend going to a place like Public pub. Public pub is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 521 customers and is one of the best bars you can visit tonight.

Another lively bar worth checking out tonight is Kancelarija Bar. This is the perfect place to enjoy a couple of drinks if you want to continue your celebrations. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 260 customers gives you an idea of what to expect from this bar.

Alternatively, head to Celtic Caffe Bard. This popular bar will bring up your mood and give you a good ending to your night. Celtic Caffe Bard is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 239 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration and anticipation of your memorable and relaxing road trip adventure through Croatia!

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in Croatia is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Rijeka.

Depending on when you need to leave, you might be able to fit in some sightseeing or shopping. Embrace the beauty of Rijeka once more and find some souvenirs to help you remember your time in the city. To end your relaxing road trip in Croatia on top, we recommend visiting some of the following attractions.

Venetian House is an extraordinary attraction that is perfect for your last day in Rijeka. This top sight is a popular top-tier point of interest, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 25 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Rijeka or just grab something light to keep you going.

Check out the menu at Conca d'oro. Dining at Conca d'oro is one of the best food experiences you can have in Rijeka. This popular restaurant is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,238 customers.

Another top recommendation in Rijeka is Restoran Spagho. If you go to Restoran Spagho, you can expect delicious food, a nice ambiance, and great service. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,199 customers.

Alternatively, you could also go to a place like Seafood restaurant Feral. If you haven’t yet, a trip to Seafood restaurant Feral is your opportunity to have a lovely meal before leaving the city. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,111 customers.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Rijeka and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in Croatia is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.