9-Day Croatia Road Trip from Rijeka to Pula, Senj, and Rijeka and surrounding area

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 3 nights immersing yourself in Rijeka's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Rijeka is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Rijeka. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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.

Reserve a table at Nebo by Deni Srdoč, a 1 Michelin star restaurant and a Bib Gourmand dining establishment in Rijeka. This epicurean hotspot’s delicious modern and creative offering makes it a crowd favorite. Nebo by Deni Srdoč is highly regarded in the culinary world and boasts an impressive track record of satisfied customers.

Another dining place you should visit in Rijeka is Konoba Fiume, which boasts a variety of tasteful dishes that cater to different palates. It has earned a commendable 4.7 out of 5 stars, demonstrating the positive feedback from 933 satisfied customers.

Locals and visitors alike recommend Rijeka’s Boonker for the delightful dining experience it gives. The establishment has garnered positive reviews for its tasty dishes, holding an admirable score of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 3,735 satisfied diners.

Book caffe Dnevni boravak is an excellent example. This bar is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,024 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar that locals recommend, like The Beertija Klub. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,087 customers.

Teatro Lounge Bar is another of the best bars in the city of Rijeka that serves various drinks. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 738 customers.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Croatia!

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Rijeka for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Croatia that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Rijeka has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Croatia by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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

Plan ahead and secure a table at Bistro Mornar, an acclaimed dining establishment in Rijeka. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 3,156 satisfied guests.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of King’s Caffe food pub while experiencing the best of Rijeka. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 1,389 discerning diners.

Indulge in the rich flavors of Submarine Burger Rijeka, an elegant culinary destination in Rijeka. A menu crafted to perfection guarantees a dining experience that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Its stellar reputation is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,653 previous guests.

River is a must-visit. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,197 customers.

You can also enjoy having some snacks and drinks at Pet Jedan Tapas Bar. This bar is a popular hangout spot among locals and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 898 customers.

Pub "Bačva" is another top-rated city bar we recommend in Rijeka. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 781 customers, this bar is a great place to cap off the night.

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

Day 3 of your road trip across Croatia promises a magnificent time exploring Rijeka. You have 1 night left in Rijeka. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Rijeka, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Rijeka below.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Rijeka.

Make sure to book a table at Maslina, a popular restaurant in Rijeka. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,219 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at Na Kantunu Tavern during your stay in Rijeka. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 1,194 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of Conca d'oro, a renowned dining destination in Rijeka. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 1,238 satisfied guests.

Make your way to Phanas Pub Rijeka est.2001. This bar promises a great atmosphere for your celebrations and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 753 customers.

Or, why not continue your evening at Public pub? This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars among 521 guests.

Another bar where you can have a great time tonight is Kancelarija Bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 260 customers.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Rijeka and Pula, 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 2 nights.

When you're ready to see some sights, Riječki Karneval is a great place to start with. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 22 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is City Clock Tower. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,349 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Old Roman Arch. The sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 132 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Pula, 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 Rijeka to Pula may take around 1 hour 25 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Pula.

Reserve your spot at Veritas Food&Wine, a popular local restaurant in Pula. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 1,550 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience Pizzeria Jupiter during your stay in Pula. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,601 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of El Pulari, a popular local gem in Pula. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,101 satisfied guests.

Locals recommend going for a drink at Rock Bar Mimoza. This bar is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 613 customers.

Another popular bar you could swing by after dinner is The Shipyard Pub. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,622 customers.

Hook & Cook Pula also makes the list of popular bars you could visit tonight. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,587 customers.

Head back to your accommodation in Pula and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia!

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Pula. You’ll stay in Pula for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. Croatia is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Don't forget to book a table at Bistro Alighieri, a well-known eatery in Pula. This popular restaurant and its sumptuous cuisine have won the hearts of food lovers. Its commitment to a delicious menu is evident in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,688 satisfied guests.

Ensure you visit Grill restaurant "Odisej" while exploring Pula. This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu, distinguished with a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 1,787 discerning guests.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Taj Tavern, a popular restaurant in Pula. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,079 discerning diners.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Old City Bar Pula, claiming it’s one of the best. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,368 customers.

If you feel like going somewhere else, another popular option in the city is Cabahia. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 664 customers.

Bass bar Pula is yet another top-rated place where you can easily spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 349 customers.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

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 2 vibrant destinations - Pula and Senj. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Senj. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Uskok, an iconic dining spot in Senj. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Its dedication to culinary innovation is evident in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,133 satisfied guests.

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy culinary excellence at Tavern Kod Veska while in Senj. This renowned dining destination showcases an exquisite menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, treasured by 822 previous guests.

Delight in the culinary creations of Restaurant-pizzeria Tropicana, a favorite in Senj. Its innovative menu offers a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With a reputation for excellence, it has earned a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 1,087 discerning guests.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Pirassa Caffe Gelateria, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 120 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Cafe Bar Julijus. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 109 customers.

Restoran "Krešimir" is another top-rated bar where you can spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 146 customers.

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

On day 7 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 Senj, Rijeka, and Rijeka. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rijeka, where you will stay for 1 night.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Nehaj Fortress. Previous visitors have rated this fortress an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,558 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Senj and set your GPS to Rijeka. 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 1 hour 59 min. Upon reaching Rijeka, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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

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

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit HERITAGE - Croatian Street Food & Shop. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in Rijeka has received a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from around 1,369 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, Dubravkin put should be on your list. Situated in the heart of Rijeka, it has become a beloved food venue for its delicious menu. It boasts a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,365 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at Cheese Bar. This highly regarded restaurant in Rijeka has earned a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 1,097 satisfied guests.

If you feel like having a drink or two after your meal, an awesome bar you can go to is Mr. Fogg. This place has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,233 customers.

To enjoy a great atmosphere, continue your evening at Swanky Monkey Garden. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,237 customers.

Valhalla beer bar is another great place where you can celebrate your adventures in Rijeka. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,010 customers.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Rijeka and Rijeka. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Rijeka, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,026 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Botanical Garden of the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,593 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Park Maksimir. This park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 19,379 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Zagreb Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 24,176 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Bundek. This lake is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,257 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Rijeka. This car ride takes around 1 hour 46 min.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at Restoran Spagho, a popular restaurant in Rijeka. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 1,199 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at Seafood restaurant Feral during your stay in Rijeka. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 1,111 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of Restaurant Capote y Ole. , a renowned dining destination in Rijeka. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 351 satisfied guests.

An excellent example is Celtic Caffe Bard, which has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 239 customers.

Another of the best bars you should consider going to is "Metropolis" Caffe Bar & Night Bar. This bar offers a selection of great meals and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 675 customers.

Locals also enjoy Caffe Bar Kosi Toranj, and you might too. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 454 customers, an after-dinner drink at Caffe Bar Kosi Toranj is the perfect way to end this day.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Croatia!

Day 9 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 your final day in Croatia unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Rijeka’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Croatia.

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

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!