7-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rijeka traveling east to Zadar, Šibenik, and Zagreb

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Rijeka. You’ll stay in Rijeka for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Rijeka is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at Trsat Castle, a locally renowned castle that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat, enchanting visitors with its majestic appeal. Continue your exploration at Petar Kružić Stairway. This monument is one of the city’s most locally appreciated spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Rijeka at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Maritime And History Museum Of The Croatian Coast.

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 Rijeka's best restaurants.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Rijeka by reserving a table at Nebo by Deni Srdoč. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern and creative menu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Zelena Dolina, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Teatro Lounge Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Book Caffe Dnevni Boravak, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Pub "bačva" also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Zadar, 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 Zadar. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Rijeka and set your GPS to Zadar. 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 3 hours 5 min. Upon reaching Zadar, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make your way to Sea Organ, a famous art installation that draws attention for its romantic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Market Zadar, a visually striking market that stands out in the city. Next, visit Church Of St. Donatus, a curiosity-inducing church that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Narodni Trg, a nearby public square, which is highly recommended by other travelers.

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

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

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.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Općina Ražanac, Općina Jasenice, and Split. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Šibenik, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Općina Ražanac. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await.

Općina Ražanac’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Zadar behind. This drive usually takes around 31 min. Općina Ražanac welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Paški Most.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Općina Jasenice, 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 Općina Ražanac to Općina Jasenice may take around 24 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Općina Jasenice, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Your self-guided tour starts at Maslenica Bridge, an intriguing deck arch bridge that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Split. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 36 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your journey at Diocletian's Palace and explore the romantic features. Next, make your way to Marjan, another highlight in the town.

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

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Šibenik by reserving a table at Pelegrini. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. Looking for something different? Fry Guy offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Šibenik.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Caffe Palma, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Mystic is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Azimut is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Šibenik, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Zagreb. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 9 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Bundek is a locally renowned park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its mesmerizing features before continuing your self-guided tour to Ribnjak Park, a mesmerizing park that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Zagreb Cathedral, a stunning church. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Ban Josip Jelačić Statue, a symbolic and truly unique monument.

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

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.

Savor the flavors at Zinfandel's Restaurant, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Esplanade Zagreb Hotel beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Rougemarin City. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zagreb tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Tesla New Generation after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Caffe Bar Destino, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Booze And Blues 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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 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.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Zagreb, including a historical landmark, a performing arts theater, a botanical garden, a park, a zoo and much more! Start your adventure at Lotrščak Tower. This worthwhile historical landmark is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb located in Zagreb for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb. Its serene features will captivate you. After the botanical garden, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Park Maksimir. This park has a serene appeal. For a change of pace, head to Zagreb Zoo. As one of the most popular attractions in Zagreb, this zoo is an excellent place to end your self-guided tour.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restoran Morčić, a top-rated dining spot in Rijeka. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bowling Center Rijeka, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Seafood restaurant Feral. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Rijeka.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Pet Jedan Tapas Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, "metropolis" Caffe Bar & Night Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Caffe Bar Kosi Toranj also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!