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

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 1 night to stay in the area.

Today’s agenda in Rijeka includes a castle, a church, and a museum. Trsat Castle is must-visit castle and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat, an up-and-coming church, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Maritime And History Museum Of The Croatian Coast, an enchanting museum, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Rijeka. If you’re looking for more, Natural History Museum Rijeka is also an often recommended attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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.

Discovering the culinary wonders of Rijeka is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

Start your foodie adventure at Trattoria Krug, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Zelena Dolina, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Teatro Lounge Bar, considered one of the best bars in Rijeka. You can also enjoy drinks at Book Caffe Dnevni Boravak, known for its fun atmosphere. Alternatively, go to Pub "bačva", a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of Rijeka.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Croatia!

Day 3 of your self-drive vacation in Croatia will take you to the city of Pula, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Pula, you'll explore 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in Croatia, including Gedići, Rovinj, and Fažana.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Gedići. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await.

Gedići’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Rijeka behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 16 min. Gedići welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Take your self-guided tour to Baredine Cave, a worthwhile cave that everyone visiting Gedići should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Rovinj. This drive usually takes around 43 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Church Of St. Euphemia is a curiosity-inducing church we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its inviting features before continuing your self-guided tour to Golden Cape Forest Park, an eye-catching park that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Park Forest Zlatni Rt, a serene park.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Rovinj and set your GPS to Fažana. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 35 min. Upon reaching Fažana, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Fasana is an increasingly popular beach we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its eye-catching features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

Savor the culinary delights of Pula, 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Pizzeria Samantha, 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 Fresh Sandwiches and Salads - 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 Bistro Romantic Alley, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

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

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

Day 4 of your road trip across Croatia is another proof that cheap holidays in Croatia can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 1 wonderful destinations — Pula. You’ll explore along your route leading to the town of Senj, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Pula, including a castle, a monument, a public square, an aquarium, an archeological site and much more! Start your day with a visit to Pula Citadel. This worthwhile castle is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Temple Of Augustus, which may be one of the most heritage-rich places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Pula 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 Forum Square, one of the city’s most up-and-coming public square. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Aquarium Pula and Pula Arena.

Senj 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 town.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the town's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Senj 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 Pizzeria King, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Bistro i Caffe bar "Kod tri mornara" is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Restaurant Uskok, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

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

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Croatia!

On day 5 of your cheap holiday travels in Croatia, you’ll tour 2 destinations: Korenica and Zadar. You'll stay in Zadar for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Zadar. This car ride takes around 2 hours 14 min.

Begin your journey at Plitvice Lakes National Park and explore the UNESCO world heritage-listed features.

Zadar’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Korenica behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 14 min. Zadar welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Sea Organ. Spend some time admiring the awe-inspiring features of the art installation before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Roman Forum. This worthwhile archeological site is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find Narodni Trg. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the public square.

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

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

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Pizzeria Šime, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Harvatski restorant "Galiya" is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Restoran Zadar - Jadera.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Yachting Bar & Club, known for its lively atmosphere. Caffe Bar Porthos is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Factory Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Day 8 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.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a visually striking, a respected, a culturally significant, a remarkable, a romantic, a serene, and a mesmerizing. Whether you decide to explore Zagreb on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Ban Josip Jelačić Statue is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this noteworthy monument before continuing your journey. Zagreb Zoo is your next stop. This interesting zoo is one of the best-rated sights in Zagreb.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Park Maksimir. This mesmerizing park is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb and Bundek.

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.

Discovering the culinary wonders of Rijeka is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

Restoran Morčić stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options. For those craving a casual dining experience, Bowling Center Rijeka offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Seafood restaurant Feral, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Pet Jedan Tapas Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, "metropolis" Caffe Bar & Night Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Caffe Bar Kosi Toranj provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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