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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Zagreb. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zagreb. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Zagreb. This drive usually takes around 39 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your journey at Bundek and explore the eye-catching features. Next, make your way to Park Maksimir, another highlight in the city. When you’re done exploring the park, continue to Zagreb Zoo, an instagrammable zoo. Nearby, you will also find Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb. This locally appreciated botanical garden is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb, a romantic performing arts theater that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Zagreb. Zagreb offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Zagreb. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Zinfandel's Restaurant, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Esplanade Zagreb Hotel beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Rougemarin City. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zagreb tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Tesla New Generation. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Destino offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Booze And Blues, another top-rated bar in the area.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Zagreb, 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 Rijeka. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Immerse yourself in Zagreb’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Ban Josip Jelačić Statue. This symbolic monument is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the picture-perfect features of Lotrščak Tower, a must-visit historical landmark 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 Stone Gate, a beloved historical landmark. For a change of scene, check out Ribnjak Park, known for its romantic features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Rijeka. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

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.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Charlie Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Wine Bar "kod Zajca" is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001 offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Greet day 5 of your road trip in Croatia with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Rijeka for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Pula.

Set your GPS to Pula and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 33 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Pula beckons with new experiences!

Begin your journey at Aquarium Pula and explore the instagrammable features. Next, make your way to Temple Of Augustus, another highlight in the city. When you’re done exploring the monument, continue to Forum Square, a romantic public square. Nearby, you will also find Pula Arena. This extraordinary archeological site is a top place to see in the area.

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

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Trattoria Krug, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Zelena Dolina offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Buffet "Cocco". With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Rijeka.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Teatro Lounge Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Book Caffe Dnevni Boravak, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Pub "bačva" provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Croatia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Senj, Smiljan, and Žabica. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zadar, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Senj, 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 Senj may take around 1 hour 2 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Senj, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Your self-guided tour starts at Sundial On The 45th Parallel, an often recommended monument that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Nehaj Fortress and admire its picture-perfect features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Smiljan, 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 Senj to Smiljan may take around 1 hour 14 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Smiljan, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Nikola Tesla Memorial Center. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Smiljan, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Žabica may take around 11 min. Upon your arrival in Žabica, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Jasikovac, Park Suma, a worthwhile park that draws visitors from near and far.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Zadar, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Make sure to book a table at Pizzeria Šime, a popular restaurant in Zadar. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zadar at Harvatski restorant "Galiya", a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Restoran Zadar - Jadera. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Zadar tonight.

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

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

Day 7 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.

Today’s itinerary in Zadar covers several incredible sights, including a market, a public square, a church, an archeological site, an art installation and much more! Start your adventure at Market Zadar. This underrated market is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the visually striking wonders of Narodni Trg, a must-see public square in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Church Of St. Donatus. This curiosity-inducing church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Roman Forum, where you can take in its culturally significant features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Sea Organ. This visually striking art installation offers a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Pet Bunara Dine & Wine offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant 2Ribara. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zadar.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Pirate Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Bizarre offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Backstage Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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