9-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zagreb traveling west to Pula, Senj, Šibenik, and Zadar

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Zagreb. You’ll stay in Zagreb for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

A visit to Lower Town (Donji Grad) in Zagreb is a must on your agenda today. This neighborhood is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Zagreb allows for both. Start by heading to Park Maksimir. This popular park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Zagreb Zoo, a picture-perfect zoo, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb, a curiosity-inducing performing arts theater. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the interesting Bundek.

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 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Zagreb by reserving a table at Tač. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional traditional menu. For a different taste experience, head to Noel, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Beštija, a local favorite known for its delightful contemporary cuisine in Zagreb. Nestled in the heart of the city, this Bib Gourmand awardee is an ideal choice for discerning contemporary foodies seeking culinary excellence.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Krolo, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Kavana Corso. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Valhalla Beer Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Zagreb and Rijeka. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Pula, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and romantic experiences. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Museum Of Broken Relationships. This increasingly popular museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Stone Gate, one of the city’s most promising highlights.

Next, check out Trsat Castle, one of the most captivating places to see in Zagreb. This castle is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Pula, 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 Pula's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Pizzeria Samantha, a popular restaurant in Pula. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Pula at Fresh Sandwiches and Salads, 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 Bistro Romantic Alley. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Pula tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Beach Bar Laplaya, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Shipyard Pub, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Zeppelin - Beach & Lounge Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Pula, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

A top thing to do today is to explore Decumanus Street, a must-see street in Gedići. It's the perfect starting point for exploring the top attractions in the area.

Start by visiting Baredine Cave, a prime spot to begin your journey. This stunning cave is sure to impress. Next on your list is Church Of St. Euphemia, another must-visit landmark and intriguing church renowned for its romantic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Pula by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Park Forest Zlatni Rt. This mesmerizing park is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience.

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

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

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

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Ulysses, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Caffe Bar "dvojka". This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Bolero, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore 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 Senj. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Pula, featuring fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at Pula Citadel, a frequently visited castle in the city. Then, head to Historical And Maritime Museum Of Istria and soak in the ambiance of this picture-perfect museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Pula and when you are ready for more, go to Temple Of Augustus. This is one of the city’s most notable spots. After exploring the monument, visit the underrated Forum Square. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the extraordinary Pula Arena, an extraordinary archeological site in the city.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Pizzeria King, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bistro i Caffe bar "Kod tri mornara" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant Uskok. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Senj tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Pirassa Caffe Gelateria, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Cafe Bar Julijus provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Erna offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Split and Zadar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zadar, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Šibenik, including a park, a palace, an art installation, a church and much more! Start your day with a visit to Marjan. This popular park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Diocletian's Palace, which may be one of the most grand places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Šibenik 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 Sea Organ, a spectacular art installation in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Church Of St. Donatus.

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.

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 delicious dinner at Pizzeria Šime, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Harvatski restorant "Galiya" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restoran Zadar - Jadera. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zadar.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Yachting Bar & Club, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Caffe Bar Porthos offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Zadar. The Factory Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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