Cheap One-Week Croatia Road Trip from Rijeka to Zadar, Karlovac County, and Zagreb

Your exciting road trip through Croatia starts when you reach the incredible city of Rijeka, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Rijeka and begin your adventure in Croatia.

Rijeka is a popular cheap holiday destination in Croatia with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Croatia, Rijeka 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.

Take the opportunity to see City Clock Tower. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,349 visitors.

Savor the culinary delights of Rijeka, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

Restaurant Capote y Ole. Offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Seafood restaurant Feral. Or, try Conca d'oro, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Rijeka, Charlie Bar. Alternatively, visit Wine bar "kod Zajca", a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by Phanas Pub Rijeka est.2001, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.

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

Day 2 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Rijeka, proving that cheap holidays in Croatia can be extraordinary. Have fun exploring the best places to visit in the city. At the end of the day, enjoy wining and dining at Rijeka, with 2 nights to stay in the area.

Kick off the day at Petar Kružić Stairway, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 806 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Islamic Center of Rijeka. Islamic Center of Rijeka is a mosque with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 969 reviews.

Church of Mary of God of Trsat is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,505 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Trsat Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,592 visitors.

Visiting the most popular travel destinations in Croatia sometimes leaves you longing for more. Fortunately, there are plenty of unique and cheap tours to try out in Croatia. Croatia has something for everyone, and you can easily pick an activity you can add to your affordable vacation package. Check out all of the budget-friendly tours in Croatia that will fill you with new inspiration.

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.

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

Visit Teatro Lounge Bar, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots. Book caffe Dnevni boravak serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Rijeka. And if you're looking for a special place to enjoy the evening, our recommendation is Pub "Bačva".

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Croatia. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in Croatia!

Get ready for another thrilling road trip adventure both in and around Rijeka on day 3 of your affordable vacation in Croatia. You’ll continue your stay in Rijeka for an additional 1 night. Explore more top attractions in Croatia, immerse yourself in diverse cultures, and enjoy unique experiences!

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 33 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Pula, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Aquarium Pula. This aquarium is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,849 visitors.

When you’re finished at Aquarium Pula, head to Temple of Augustus. This one-of-a-kind archaeological site is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,021 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Forum Square. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,776 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Pula Arena. This roman amphitheatre is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 58,989 visitors.

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

When it's time to eat or savor a refreshing drink, treat yourself to a delightful dining and drinking experience without paying more than necessary. Rijeka has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Na Sušaku, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Konoba Ive, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss Lovorka Restaurant, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Visit Pet Jedan Tapas Bar, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots. "Metropolis" Caffe Bar & Night Bar serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Rijeka. And if you're looking for a special place to enjoy the evening, our recommendation is Caffe Bar Kosi Toranj.

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

Day 4 of your self-drive vacation in Croatia will take you to the city of Zadar, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Zadar, you'll explore 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Croatia, including Senj.

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 7 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Senj, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Senj City Museum is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 120 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Park Nehaj. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 69 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Nehaj Fortress. The fortress has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,558 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Plaža Prva Draga. This point of interest is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,086 reviews.

Zadar offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Croatia. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Pizzeria Šime, where every bite is a flavor-packed adventure! With an enticing menu of affordable delights, this spot is a must-visit for foodies on a budget. Another hotspot worth exploring during your cheap getaway is Хърватски ресторант "Галия" - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights. If you're eager to dine where the locals love, don't miss out on Restoran Zadar - Jadera, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

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

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

On day 5 of your cheap holiday travels in Croatia, you’ll tour 1: Zadar. You'll stay in Karlovac County for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Take the opportunity to see Market Zadar. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,657 visitors.

Narodni trg is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,636 travelers.

Zadar is also the home of Church of St. Donatus. Around 8,708 people have rated this church building an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Roman Forum. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 4,709 reviews, a visit to this point of interest is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Zadar is also your chance to admire Sea organ. This must-visit tide organ enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 57,178 reviews.

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

A cheap, budget vacation in Karlovac County should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Karlovac County, try some of our top recommendations.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Pizzeria Tiffany Karlovac, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Ćevabdžinica Behar offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Konoba Črni kos is the perfect spot for you!

Round off your dining experience by visiting Choco Caffe Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Kazališna kavana, a bar catering to every mood and preference. R Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in Croatia! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Karlovac County!

Day 6 of your road trip across Croatia offers you the chance to visit 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Zagreb. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Zagreb, where you'll stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Karlovac County’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Zagreb. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 52 min. When you arrive in Zagreb, it's time to take a break from the road.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Park Maksimir. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 19,379 reviews.

Continue your journey at Zagreb Zoo. This zoo is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 24,176 travelers from near and far.

Zagreb is also the home of Zagreb Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 16,419 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Ban Josip Jelačić Statue. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,840 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

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

Savor the culinary delights of Zagreb, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Roots - juice & cocktail bar is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Cheese Bar.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Booze and Blues, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Krolo, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Valhalla beer bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Croatia with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Croatia!

On day 7 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Croatia, you’ll experience 1 charming destinations — Zagreb. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Rijeka, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Kick off the day at Stone Gate, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This city gate is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,640 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb. Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,026 reviews.

Botanical Garden of the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,593 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Technical Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,294 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Bundek, a famous lake in Zagreb. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,257 travelers.

Rijeka offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Croatia. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

Going on cheap, budget vacations in Croatia shouldn’t stop anyone from dining at top-rated restaurants and bars. More than just an affordable travel destination, Rijeka is also home to a variety of excellent dining and drinking spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Bistro Mornar, 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 King’s Caffe food pub - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Konoba Tarsa promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Keep the evening going at Public pub, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Kancelarija Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Beertija Klub, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Rijeka!

Your budget road trip vacation in Croatia is about to end. Day 8 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Rijeka.

As you approach the end of your journey in Croatia, take a moment for some retail therapy in Rijeka’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Croatia, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Croatia with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Rijeka is the remarkable Kružna ulica. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest has an average rating of 5 out of 5 stars from 3 visitors.

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

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Rijeka, consider a top-rated restaurant like Konoba Fiume, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Submarine Burger Rijeka is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Na Kantunu Tavern, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories 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!