7-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rijeka traveling south to Zagreb, Lovinac, Split, and Lika-Senj County
Description
Included
Description
Explore the best of Croatia on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Rijeka, Zagreb, Lovinac, Zadar, Split, Lika-Senj County, Smiljan, Senj, Vela Učka, and Opatija. This road trip itinerary in Croatia seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Croatia takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Rijeka, 1 night in Zagreb, 1 night in Lovinac, 1 night in Split, and 1 night in Lika-Senj County. 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 got you covered.
Upon arriving in Rijeka, 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. Diocletian's Palace and Sea Organ are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Krka National Park, learn more about the unique Zagreb Zoo, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Ban Josip Jelačić Statue.
As you hit the open road and drive through Rijeka, Zagreb, Lovinac, Zadar, Split, Lika-Senj County, Smiljan, Senj, Vela Učka, and Opatija, 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, accommodation, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Rijeka - Arrival day
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- Petar Kružić Stairway
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Welcome to Rijeka, 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 immersing yourself in Rijeka's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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 Petar Kružić Stairway, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Rijeka. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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 Rijeka, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Dine in style at Antonio, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Capote y Ole. Boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Baćo. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Rijeka.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Charlie Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Wine Bar "kod Zajca" for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001 is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Croatia!
Day 2
- Rijeka
- Zagreb
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Drive 169 km, 2 hours 35 min
- City Clock Tower
- Maritime and History Museum of the Croatian Coast
- Church of Mary of God of Trsat
- Trsat Castle
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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 Zagreb. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today’s itinerary in Rijeka covers several incredible sights, including a monument, a museum, a church, a castle and much more! Start your adventure at City Clock Tower. This up-and-coming monument is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the heritage-rich wonders of Maritime And History Museum Of The Croatian Coast, a must-see museum in the city.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat. This curiosity-inducing church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Trsat Castle, where you can take in romantic features.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Zagreb. Zagreb offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
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.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Tač, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional traditional menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Noel, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Zagreb is Beštija, a renowned Bib Gourmand restaurant and a delicious contemporary menu.
Keep the evening going at Tesla New Generation, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Caffe Bar Destino, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Booze And Blues, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!
Day 3
- Zagreb
- Lovinac
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Drive 240 km, 2 hours 46 min
- Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
- Park Maksimir
- Zagreb Zoo
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On day 3 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 Lovinac, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s agenda in Zagreb includes a monument, a park, and a zoo. Ban Josip Jelačić Statue is must-visit monument and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Park Maksimir, a popular park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Zagreb Zoo, an idyllic zoo, also available for your discovery today.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lovinac. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the village.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Lovinac. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the village, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!
Day 4
- Lovinac
- Split
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Drive 231 km, 3 hours 1 min
- Market Zadar
- People's Square
- Church of St. Donatus
- Roman Forum
- Sea organ
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Zadar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Split, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Lovinac, featuring fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and budget-friendly activities. Start at Market Zadar, an up-and-coming market in the city. Then, head to Narodni Trg and soak in the ambiance of this history-steeped public square.
There are many interesting places to see in Lovinac and when you are ready for more, go to Church Of St. Donatus. This is one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing spots. After exploring the church, visit the locally appreciated Roman Forum. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the impressive Sea Organ, an impressive art installation in the city.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Split, 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 Split's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Split by booking a table at Šug. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of regional cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Perivoj restoran i kavana, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out La Linea, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Fabrique Pub provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Croatia!
Day 5
- Split
- Lika-Senj
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Drive 267 km, 3 hours 36 min
- Diocletian's Palace
- Golden Gate
- Forest Park Marjan
- Krka National Park
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Split. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lika-Senj County, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Split, including a palace, a historical landmark, a park, a national park and much more! Start your adventure at Diocletian's Palace. This spectacular palace is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Golden Gate located in Split for an enchanting atmosphere.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Marjan. Its eye-catching features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Krka National Park. This national park has a majestic appeal.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Lika-Senj County. Lika-Senj County offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Lika-Senj County's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at The Highlanders pub, a highly-rated dining destination in Lika-Senj County. If you're eager to try something different, consider Kavana Milinković, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lika-Senj County this evening.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Caffe Bar Fortuna after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Caffe Bar Amadeus for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Caffe Bar Bevanda is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Croatia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 6
- Lika-Senj
- Rijeka
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Drive 220 km, 3 hours 41 min
- Nikola Tesla Memorial Center
- Nehaj Fortress
- Park Prirode Učka
- Maiden with the Seagull
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Smiljan, Senj, Vela Učka, and Opatija. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Rijeka. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Immerse yourself in Lika-Senj County’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Nikola Tesla Memorial Center. This symbolic museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the culturally significant features of Nehaj Fortress, a must-visit castle in the village.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Nature Park Učka, a beloved nature reserve.
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.
Begin your culinary exploration in Rijeka by securing a reservation at Nebo by Deni Srdoč. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, Zelena Dolina boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Teatro Lounge Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Book Caffe Dnevni Boravak offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Pub "bačva", another top-rated bar in the area.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Croatia.
Day 7
- Rijeka - Departure day
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- Venetian House
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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.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Venetian House, a romantic historical landmark before you head out.
Maximize your last day in Croatia and go on a shopping spree in Rijeka’s shopping center, the lively Korzo. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Croatia. Discover boutiques with stylish fashion choices to upgrade your wardrobe. Take one last moment to soak in Croatia, and unwind with tea or coffee at a cozy cafe.
Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Rijeka.
If you're in the mood for something new, try Bowling Center Rijeka, another premier location with a delectable 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!
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