Cheap 4-Day Croatia Road Trip from Zagreb to Rijeka

Your exciting road trip through Croatia starts when you reach the incredible city of Zagreb, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Zagreb and begin your adventure in Croatia.

Zagreb is a popular cheap holiday destination in Croatia with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Croatia, Zagreb is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You’ll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Park Maksimir. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 19,618 reviews.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Zagreb offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Croatia.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Rougemarin City is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Restoran Taurus, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Tesla New Generation is an excellent example of a great bar in Zagreb offering drinks at reasonable prices. You can also hang out at Caffe Bar Destino, another of locals’ go-to bars in Zagreb. But if you’re curious about bars that give you a taste of the nightlife scene in Zagreb, Booze And Blues is for you.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in Croatia!

Day 2 of your self-drive vacation in Croatia will take you to the city of Rijeka, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Rijeka, you'll explore 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Croatia, including Zagreb.

Kick off the day at Ban Josip Jelačić Statue, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,166 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Zagreb Cathedral. Zagreb Cathedral is a catholic cathedral with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 16,501 reviews.

Zagreb Zoo is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 24,493 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Bundek. This lake is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,435 visitors.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Rijeka. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Rijeka, relax and restore your energy at your preferred affordable place to stay.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Rijeka, where exceptional dining and drinking experiences await at unbeatable prices. Explore the city's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Antonio, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance. While immersing yourself in the local culture during your budget-friendly getaway, make sure to stop by Restaurant Capote y Ole. - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Charlie Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Wine Bar "kod Zajca" offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001 provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

A road trip vacation in Zagreb can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Croatia!

Day 3 of your road trip across Croatia offers you the chance to visit 4 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Rijeka, Vela Učka, Opatija, and Bela Vodica. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Zagreb, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like City Clock Tower. This extraordinary point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,363 visitors.

Next, make your way to Trsat Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,774 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Vela Učka, 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 Vela Učka may take around 41 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Vela Učka, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Nature Park Učka. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 4,524 reviews.

Set your GPS to Opatija and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 26 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Opatija beckons with new experiences!

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Maiden With The Seagull. This sculpture is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,143 visitors.

While exploring Croatia is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Zagreb has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Zagreb on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Make the most of your budget vacation in Croatia by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Zagreb that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

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.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday in Croatia!

Your budget road trip vacation in Croatia is about to end. Day 4 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Zagreb.

On your last day in Croatia, take time to indulge in shopping at Zagreb’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Zagreb is the remarkable Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,049 visitors.

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

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Zagreb, consider a top-rated restaurant like Batak Grill, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. GOSTIONICA RESTORAN PURGER is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Cheese Bar, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Zagreb.

You’ll then say farewell to Zagreb. 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!