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

Day 2 of your road trip across Croatia promises a magnificent time exploring Zagreb. You have 1 night left in Zagreb. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Zagreb, including a zoo, a church, a monument, a museum and much more! Start your day at Zagreb Zoo. This photogenic zoo is a well-known place to see in Zagreb. Then, wander over to Zagreb Cathedral. If symbolic sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Ban Josip Jelačić Statue. This instagrammable monument is a favorite among visitors.

Zagreb offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Technical Museum is an increasingly popular spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Zagreb by booking a table at Tač. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of traditional cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Noel, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Beštija, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing contemporary menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Krolo, known for its lively atmosphere. Kavana Corso is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Valhalla Beer Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

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 Rijeka, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start by visiting Stone Gate, a prime spot to begin your journey. This romantic historical landmark is sure to impress. Next on your list is Museum Of Broken Relationships, another must-visit landmark and underrated museum renowned for its picture-perfect features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Zagreb by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Lotrščak Tower. This historic historical landmark is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Zagreb experience. We also recommend visiting Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb, a worthwhile botanical garden. Nearby, you'll also find Bundek, ready to add charm to your journey.

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.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Rijeka by booking a table at Nebo by Deni Srdoč. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Capote y Ole. , another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Charlie Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Wine Bar "kod Zajca" offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001 provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Croatia.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Rijeka, Senj, and Jablanac. 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.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Rijeka. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat is the perfect place to start. This church is one of the most up-and-coming places to visit in Rijeka. Next, head to Trsat Castle, a locally renowned castle, known for its visually striking features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Nehaj Fortress. This historic castle is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Zavratnica Cove. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lika-Senj County. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Highlanders pub, a top-rated dining spot in Lika-Senj County. If you're in the mood for something new, try Kavana Milinković, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lika-Senj County.

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

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

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Zadar has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Zadar by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Zadar on today’s itinerary. First up is the widely recognized art installation, Sea Organ. Afterward, continue to Roman Forum, an archeological site every traveler should visit.

As you explore Zadar’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Church Of St. Donatus. This often recommended church is an essential stop. Following that, head to Narodni Trg, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Market Zadar, a locally appreciated market in the city.

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.

As you explore more of Zadar, 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 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 savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Pirate Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Caffe Bar Bizarre offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Zadar. Backstage Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Općina Jasenice, Rupine, and Karlovac County. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zagreb, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Begin your adventure at Maslenica Bridge. This is a beloved deck arch bridge you should not miss. Another must-see is Pariževačka Glavica, an up-and-coming cliff in Zadar.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Aquatika. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Drveni Most, another of the village’s frequently visited attractions.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Zagreb, 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 Zagreb, 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Roots - juice & cocktail bar, a highly-rated dining destination in Zagreb. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Štruk, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Tagliata. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zagreb this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at A’e Craft Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Budbar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Mr. Fogg offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!