Relaxed 9-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rijeka to Zagreb

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Croatia means 24 hours of making the best memories in Rijeka. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Rijeka. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Rijeka!

Immerse yourself in Rijeka’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Trsat Castle. This history-steeped castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the culturally significant features of Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat, a must-visit church in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Petar Kružić Stairway, an up-and-coming monument. For a change of scene, check out Maritime And History Museum Of The Croatian Coast, known for its standout features.

Croatia makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Croatia also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

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, Zelena Dolina offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Rijeka and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Teatro Lounge Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Book Caffe Dnevni Boravak offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Pub "bačva" provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Croatia. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Croatia tomorrow with new energy.

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Rijeka and visit amazing attractions in Gedići and Rovinj destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Rijeka. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Don’t miss Decumanus Street in Gedići today, a must-see street that offers a glimpse into the village’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks. While you’re in the area, consider visiting Rovinj Old Town, another neighborhood that adds to the charm of Gedići.

Get ready for an exciting day in Rijeka. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a cave and a church. Begin your adventure at Baredine Cave. This is an underrated cave you should not miss. Another must-see is Church Of St. Euphemia, a worthwhile church in Rijeka.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Rijeka and your accommodation.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Rijeka has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restoran Morčić, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bowling Center Rijeka offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Seafood restaurant Feral. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Rijeka.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Rijeka. The bars in Rijeka make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Pet Jedan Tapas Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, "metropolis" Caffe Bar & Night Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Caffe Bar Kosi Toranj, another top-rated bar in the area.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Rijeka as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Croatia with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Croatia!

On day 4 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Croatia. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Croatia.

Start your adventure at Nikola Tesla Experience Center Karlovac. This often recommended museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Aquatika located in Rijeka for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Drveni Most.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Zagreb in this laid-back road trip in Croatia. You'll stay here for 4 nights.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Zagreb has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

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.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Zagreb.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Tesla New Generation after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Caffe Bar Destino for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Booze And Blues is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Croatia!

Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Zagreb, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Croatia are extraordinary.

Lower Town (Donji Grad) is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in Zagreb. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Zagreb, including a park, a zoo, a botanical garden, a performing arts theater and much more! Start your adventure at Park Maksimir. This notable park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Zagreb Zoo located in Zagreb for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb. Its serene features will captivate you. After the botanical garden, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb. Visitors usually appreciate the eye-catching features of this performing arts theater.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Croatia by joining a traveler-approved tour in Zagreb. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Zagreb that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Croatia more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Zagreb to find the best options for you!

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Croatia, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Zagreb.

Savor the flavors at Restoran Taurus, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Trilogija - Vino & Kuhinja beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Pizzeria Park. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zagreb tonight.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Croatia.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Krolo offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Kavana Corso is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Valhalla Beer Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia, you’ll go deep into Zagreb, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Zagreb, and meet locals along the way!

A top thing to do today is to explore Ilica, a must-see street in Zagreb. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Today's adventure in Zagreb promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Ribnjak Park. This instagrammable park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Zagreb Cathedral, another breathtaking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Ban Josip Jelačić Statue, one of the city’s most well-known attractions, known for its photogenic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Technical Museum. This visually striking museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Croatia. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Croatia and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Exploring the food culture in Zagreb offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Roots - juice & cocktail bar, a top-rated dining spot in Zagreb. If you're in the mood for something new, try La Štruk, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Tagliata. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zagreb.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Zagreb’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Croatia.

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

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip through Croatia means 24 hours of making the best memories in Zagreb. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Zagreb. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Zagreb!

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Upper Town (Gornji Grad), a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Zagreb. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Lotrščak Tower. This locally appreciated historical landmark is a breathtaking place to see in Zagreb. Continue your discovery at Museum Of Broken Relationships, an eye-catching museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Zagreb, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Stone Gate. This curiosity-inducing historical landmark offers a historic encounter with Zagreb. Next, make your way to Bundek to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Zagreb.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Croatia more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Zagreb offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Zagreb has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Batak Grill, a highly-rated dining destination in Zagreb. If you're eager to try something different, consider GOSTIONICA RESTORAN PURGER, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cheese Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zagreb this evening.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Zagreb.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Esplanade 1925 Lounge & Cocktail Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Carpe Diem for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Regular. Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Croatia.

Day 8 of your self-drive tour in Croatia is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the village of Strmec and end it in the city of Rijeka. You’ll stay in Rijeka for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Croatia.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Zagreb, including a lake, a public square, a castle, a mountain range and much more! Start your day with a visit to Playground / Lake Kipiste. This frequently visited lake is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Kipišće Lake, which may be one of the most instagrammable places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Zagreb on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to King Tomislav Square, a worthwhile public square in the village. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Samobor Castle and Žumberak And Samobor Mountains.

In the city of Rijeka, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Croatia.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Croatia. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Rijeka, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Have a fantastic dining experience at ŠtoRija, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Conca d'oro offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restoran Spagho is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Rijeka.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Croatia.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Public Pub stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Kancelarija Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The Beertija Klub is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!