9-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pula traveling east to Senj, Zadar, Karlovac County, Zagreb, and Rijeka

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Pula. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Senj, where will spend 1 night.

Start your day at Pula Arena. This culturally significant archeological site is a spectacular place to see in Pula. Then, wander over to Forum Square. If visually striking sites excite you, this public square will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Temple Of Augustus. This photogenic monument is a favorite among visitors.

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

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Senj. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

Senj is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Senj.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Pizzeria King, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bistro i Caffe bar "Kod tri mornara" is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant Uskok. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Senj tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Pirassa Caffe Gelateria is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Cafe Bar Julijus, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Erna. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Zadar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Karlovac County, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Make time for Market Zadar, an often recommended market that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Narodni Trg, enchanting visitors with its enchanting appeal. Continue your exploration at Church Of St. Donatus. This church is one of the city’s most increasingly popular 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 Roman Forum. After exploring the archeological site, head to the astonishing Sea Organ.

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

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 Karlovac County, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Pizzeria Tiffany Karlovac, a top-rated dining destination in Karlovac County. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ćevabdžinica Behar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Konoba Črni kos. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Karlovac County this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Choco Caffe Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Kazališna Kavana, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, R Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

On day 5 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 Zagreb, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Zagreb’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Karlovac County behind. This drive usually takes around 40 min. Zagreb welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Technical Museum, an up-and-coming museum that everyone visiting Zagreb should see. Next, head to Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb. This standout performing arts theater is one of the most worthwhile attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Zagreb Cathedral, a historic church popular among locals as well as travelers. Ribnjak Park is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this worthwhile park before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Ban Josip Jelačić Statue, a noteworthy monument and a top attraction in the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Zagreb. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Zinfandel's Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Zagreb. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zagreb at Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Rougemarin City. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zagreb tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Tesla New Generation, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Caffe Bar Destino offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Zagreb. Booze And Blues is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Zagreb has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Zagreb.

Zagreb is brimming with adventures.

Experience Park Maksimir, an interesting park in the city. Then, head to Zagreb Zoo and soak in the ambiance of this picture-perfect zoo.

There are many interesting places to see in Zagreb, and when you are ready for more, go to Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb. This is one of the city’s most underrated romantic spots of interest. After exploring the botanical garden, visit the locally appreciated Zagreb Fountains. Not far away, you'll also find Bundek. This park is an instagrammable highlight in Zagreb.

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.

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 Zagreb, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restoran Taurus, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Trilogija - Vino & Kuhinja? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Pizzeria Park as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Zagreb.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Krolo, known for its inviting atmosphere. Kavana Corso is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Valhalla Beer Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Your itinerary for day 7 of your road trip in Croatia includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Zagreb. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Rijeka, where you'll spend 1 night.

Enjoy all that Lotrščak Tower has to offer. This is an intriguing historical landmark you should not miss. Another must-see is Museum Of Broken Relationships, an often recommended museum in Zagreb.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Stone Gate. From there, take a leisurely stroll to St. Mark's Church, another of the city’s underrated attractions.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Rijeka. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Nebo by Deni Srdoč in Rijeka by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Nebo by Deni Srdoč delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern and creative cuisine. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Capote y Ole. ? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Charlie Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Wine Bar "kod Zajca" offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Rijeka. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Pula, where will spend 1 night.

City Clock Tower brings Rijeka's character to life. This picture-perfect monument is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Petar Kružić Stairway, another breathtaking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat, one of the city’s most underrated attractions, known for its symbolic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Trsat Castle. This visually striking castle is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Islamic Center Of Rijeka, an intriguing mosque, and take a stroll around the area.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Pula. Pula 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 Pula's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Fine fast food Piantina, a top-rated dining destination in Pula. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Street Food Two, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran "Stari grad 02". With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Pula this evening.

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

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