One-Week Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zagreb traveling south to Rijeka, Lika-Senj County, and Zadar

Day 2 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Zagreb. You’ll stay in Zagreb for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Zagreb Zoo is must-visit zoo and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Zagreb Cathedral, a well-known church, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Ban Josip Jelačić Statue, a noteworthy monument, also available for your discovery today.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Croatia. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

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.

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

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

On day 3 of your road trip in Croatia, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Zagreb are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rijeka, where you will stay for 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the often recommended Stone Gate and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Museum Of Broken Relationships, an eye-catching museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Lotrščak Tower, one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the intriguing Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb. When you're finished at the botanical garden, Bundek awaits your visit. This park is a romantic highlight on today's itinerary.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Rijeka. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Nebo by Deni Srdoč in Rijeka by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Nebo by Deni Srdoč offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern and creative menu. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Capote y Ole. Offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Charlie Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Wine Bar "kod Zajca", a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001 provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Rijeka, Senj, and Jablanac. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Lika-Senj County, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This visually striking church is sure to impress. Next on your list is Trsat Castle, another must-visit landmark and interesting castle renowned for its visually striking features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Senj. This car ride takes around 1 hour 8 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Nehaj Fortress and explore the culturally significant features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Jablanac. This drive usually takes around 42 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Zavratnica Cove. Spend some time admiring the standout features of the canyon before you continue to your next stop.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Lika-Senj County, 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 Lika-Senj County's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Make sure to reserve a table at The Highlanders pub, an iconic dining spot in Lika-Senj County. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Kavana Milinković, a popular restaurant in Lika-Senj County. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav, a hidden gem nestled in Lika-Senj County. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Zadar. You’ll stay in Zadar for 1 night.

Zadar is brimming with adventures.

Make time for Sea Organ, an impressive art installation that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Roman Forum, enchanting visitors with its historic appeal. Continue your exploration at Church Of St. Donatus. This church is one of the city’s most worthwhile spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Zadar at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Narodni Trg. After exploring the public square, head to the increasingly popular Market Zadar.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Croatia. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Pet Bunara Dine & Wine? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurant 2Ribara as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Zadar.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Pirate Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Caffe Bar Bizarre. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Backstage Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Croatia!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Općina Jasenice, Rupine, and Karlovac County. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zagreb, where will spend 1 night.

After soaking in Općina Jasenice’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Rupine. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 8 min. When you arrive in Rupine, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Pariževačka Glavica, a frequently visited cliff known for its serene features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Karlovac County, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Rupine to Karlovac County may take around 2 hours 9 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Karlovac County, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Aquatika is an up-and-coming aquarium we recommend visiting today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

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

Dine in style at Roots - juice & cocktail bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, La Štruk boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Tagliata. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zagreb.

Round off your dining experience by visiting A’e Craft Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Budbar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Mr. Fogg likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Croatia.