7-Day Croatia Road Trip from Rijeka traveling south to Pula, Senj, Zadar, and Zagreb

Your road trip adventure in Croatia begins as soon as you reach Rijeka and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Rijeka for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Rijeka 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 City Clock Tower 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 Rijeka. 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 Rijeka. 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.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant Capote y Ole. , a top-rated dining spot in Rijeka. If you're in the mood for something new, try Seafood restaurant Feral, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Conca d'oro. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Rijeka.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Charlie Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Wine bar "kod Zajca" offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Phanas Pub Rijeka est.2001 is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Rijeka, 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 Rijeka’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Pula. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 22 min. When you arrive in Pula, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Maritime and History Museum of the Croatian Coast. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,049 reviews.

Next up is Church of Mary of God of Trsat. This church has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,505 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Trsat Castle. This castle has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,592 reviews.

Islamic Center of Rijeka is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This mosque has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 969 reviews.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Pula. 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Pizzeria Samantha, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restoran "Stari grad 02" offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Epulon Food & Wine is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Pula.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Beach Bar LaPlaya, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Shipyard Pub is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Zeppelin - Beach & lounge bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Croatia.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Gedići, Pula, and Fažana. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Senj, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Fažana, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Gedići may take around 43 min. Upon your arrival in Gedići, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Baredine Cave. This show cave 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 Pula and set your GPS to Fažana. 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 13 min. Upon reaching Fažana, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Temple of Augustus. This archaeological site is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,021 visitors.

When you’re finished at Temple of Augustus, head to Forum Square. This one-of-a-kind sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,776 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Pula Arena. This roman amphitheatre is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 58,989 visitors.

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 explore more of Senj, 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.

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.

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.

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 4 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 Parići, Senj, Općina Jasenice, and Rupine. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zadar, where you will stay for 1 night.

Parići’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Rupine behind. This drive usually takes around 25 min. Parići welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Paklenica National Park, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 5,842 reviews.

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 Senj to Općina Jasenice may take around 1 hour 37 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Općina Jasenice, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Park Nehaj. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Senj, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 69 visitors.

Nehaj Fortress is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,558 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Zadar, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

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 Хърватски ресторант "Галия", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. With a reputation for consistently satisfied 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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Zadar and Karlovac County. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zagreb. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Set your GPS to Karlovac County and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 26 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Karlovac County beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Market Zadar. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,657 visitors.

Narodni trg is another popular attraction you could visit today. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,636 visitors.

Roman Forum is also highly recommended by travelers. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,709 visitors.

Sea organ is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This tide organ is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 57,178 reviews.

Karlovac County’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Zadar behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 26 min. Karlovac County welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Advent Karlovac, a remarkable point of interest where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 446 reviews.

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

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, a top-rated dining destination in Zagreb. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Roots - juice & cocktail bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cheese Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zagreb this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Booze and Blues after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Krolo for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Valhalla beer bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Zagreb. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Rijeka, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Rijeka. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 46 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Ban Josip Jelačić Statue is a great place to start. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,840 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,026 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Park Maksimir. The park has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 19,379 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Zagreb Zoo. This zoo is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 24,176 reviews.

Bundek is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this lake, rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 15,257 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

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.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Restoran Spagho, 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 Barbacoa, 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 Konoba Ribica, a hidden gem nestled in Rijeka. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Teatro Lounge Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Book caffe Dnevni boravak, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Pub "Bačva" likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Croatia!

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

As you approach the end of your journey in Croatia, take a moment for some retail therapy in Rijeka’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Croatia, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Croatia with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Na Sušaku, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Konoba Ive offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Rijeka. 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!