Cheap 9-Day Croatia Road Trip from Zagreb traveling west to Roč, Pula, Ogulin, Šibenik, and Zadar

Your exciting road trip through Croatia starts when you reach the incredible city of Zagreb, where you'll stay for 2 nights. 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 cheap, budget vacation in Zagreb should not stop you from enjoying incredible food. When you’re ready to have the best dining experience in Zagreb, try some of our top recommendations.

Eat at HERITAGE - Croatian Street Food & Shop. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,369 reviews.

You can also check out Dubravkin put. Offering appetizing foods and refreshing beverages at reasonable prices, this restaurant is an excellent choice for budget travelers. The restaurant is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,365 diners.

Another great restaurant we recommend you go to after your activities is Cheese Bar. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,097 customers, this restaurant is sure to provide you with a memorable dining experience.

One great example is Mr. Fogg. This bar offers various snacks and drinks at affordable prices and has an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,233 customers.

Swanky Monkey Garden is another popular bar in Zagreb. If you ask the 2,237 customers who have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars, Swanky Monkey Garden is the perfect place to hang out for a drink or two.

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

Day 2 means another chance to make the best memories in this cheap holiday destination in Croatia, Zagreb. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Zagreb!

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.

After a long day of exploring and making the most of your budget vacation in Croatia, treat 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.

You could check out Roots - juice & cocktail bar, one of locals’ top restaurant options in the area. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 800 customers, and is a great place to enjoy a satisfying meal after a busy day of exploring.

Restoran Vegehop is another excellent choice for cheap holiday-goers. This restaurant serves a variety of delicious and comforting foods and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 760 diners.

If you feel like having something different, check out the menu at Mali Medo. This restaurant is known to offer good food at reasonable prices. Mali Medo has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,203 customer reviews.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into the top-rated Booze and Blues. This bar is considered one of the best in Zagreb and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 848 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like A’e Craft Bar, rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 705 customers. Alternatively, go to Program Bar. This is one of the most frequently recommended bars in Zagreb and boasts an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 637 reviews.

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

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

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 19,379 reviews.

Zagreb Zoo is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 24,176 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Botanical Garden of the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,593 reviews.

After soaking in Zagreb’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Rijeka. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 47 min. When you arrive in Rijeka, it's time to take a break from the road.

Journey into the unknown at Trsat Castle, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable castle has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,592 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Petar Kružić Stairway is a recommended place to visit. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 806 reviews.

Roč’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Rijeka behind. This drive usually takes around 43 min. Roč welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

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

A cheap, budget vacation in Roč should not stop you from enjoying incredible food. When you’re ready to have the best dining experience in Roč, try some of our top recommendations.

After a long day of exploring, we recommend you try Pizzeria Ježić, one of the top-rated restaurants in the city. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,049 customers and is a great place to relax and enjoy a comforting meal.

Locals also recommend Pizzeria & Grill Smile Buzet, so you'll want to drop by this place. Pizzeria & Grill Smile Buzet serves delicious meals in hearty portions and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 942 customers.

Another must-try in the city of Roč is Konoba Vrh. This restaurant boasts an exciting menu and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 548 customers.

After dinner, visit one of the best bars in the city, Caffe Bar Melody. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 148 reviews and guarantees you a great time.

If you want to continue your night somewhere else, head to a popular bar like KONOBA KOLINASI. This bar is a local favorite, with great drinks, lovely service, and an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,486 customers.

The options in Roč don’t end there, you could also spend some time at the excellent Slasticarna Hajduk. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 239 customers, this bar is one of the best places to relax after a long, adventure-filled day.

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

Day 4 of your road trip across Croatia offers you the chance to visit 5 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Gedići, Rovinj, Fažana, Bubani, and Pula. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Pula.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Roč, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Gedići. This drive usually takes around 53 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Baredine Cave. This extraordinary show cave has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,737 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Gedići, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bubani may take around 25 min. Upon your arrival in Bubani, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Lim/Leme Fjord. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,743 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Bubani, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Rovinj. Your travel time is around 22 min.

Pula 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.

When it’s time to eat, treat yourself to a lovely meal without paying more than necessary. Pula has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

For the best dining experience in this affordable destination, eat at the highly recommended Veritas Food&Wine. This restaurant is sure to satisfy your hunger as it has an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,550 customers.

Pizzeria Jupiter is another local-favorite restaurant in Pula. Pizzeria Jupiter serves delicious and affordable meals, and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,601 reviews.

Known for its good food and service, El Pulari is also popular among locals and cheap holiday goers in Gedići. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 of 5 stars from around 2,101 customers.

Rock Bar Mimoza is an excellent example. This bar is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 613 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar that locals recommend, like The Shipyard Pub. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,622 customers.

Hook & Cook Pula is another of the best bars in the city of Pula that serves various drinks. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,587 customers.

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

Day 5 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 exploring 2 wonderful destinations — Pula and Ogulin.

Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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

It's now time to discover the mouthwatering delights of Ogulin, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best dining options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate.

Eat at Slastičarnica & FastFood Korzo. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 247 reviews.

You can also check out Pizzeria Bonino. Offering appetizing foods and refreshing beverages at reasonable prices, this restaurant is an excellent choice for budget travelers. The restaurant is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,181 diners.

Another great restaurant we recommend you go to after your activities is Štross Street Food. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 923 customers, this restaurant is sure to provide you with a memorable dining experience.

After dinner, visit Cafe COCKTAIL, which is considered one of the best bars in the city. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 219 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular place like caffe bar JAZZbina. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 456 customers.

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

On day 6 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Croatia, you’ll experience 4 charming destinations — Perušić, Drniš, Ključ, and Šibenik. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Šibenik.

Journey into the unknown at Cikola Canyon, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 208 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Ključ, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Šibenik may take around 22 min. Upon your arrival in Šibenik, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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

Savor the culinary delights of Šibenik, 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.

One musty-try restaurant is Restoran Pjat. This restaurant offers good food at reasonable prices and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 597 customers.

Konoba Nostalgija is an excellent alternative with an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,069 reviews. Konoba Nostalgija is known for its delicious meals that will surely satisfy your hunger.

Another of the best places to eat in the area is Kod Starog Bistro. This restaurant has an impressive average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 810 customers because of their good food, service, and ambiance.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Azimut, claiming it’s one of the best. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 993 customers.

If you feel like going somewhere else, another popular option in the city is Vintage Bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 534 customers.

Bronzin is yet another top-rated place where you can easily spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 735 customers.

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

Day 7 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 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Croatia, including Split and Zadar.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Split, 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 Šibenik to Split may take around 1 hour 5 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Diocletian's Palace is a great place to start with. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 76,537 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Golden Gate. This memorial gates and arches has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,820 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Marjan. The mountain has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,490 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Kašjuni Beach. This beach is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,800 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Split, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Zadar. Your travel time is around 1 hour 49 min.

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.

One place locals and cheap holiday-goers recommend is Restoran 4 Kantuna. This restaurant is known for its delicious and comforting foods and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,300 customers.

Pet Bunara Dine & Wine is another popular restaurant you can eat at to ensure an affordable and pleasant vacation. This restaurant serves good food at low prices and has an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,856 customers.

Trattoria Mediterraneo has a menu of appetizing and reasonably priced meals, so you might want to check it out too. The restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 762 reviews.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in Zadar. Deja Brew Pub Zadar is a fantastic option, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 735 customers.

To end your night the best way possible, don't forget to check out BackStage Bar. This bar offers a great variety of drinks and has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 508 customers.

Another bar with a great atmosphere is Harbor CookHouse & Club. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,272 customers.

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

Day 8 of your road trip across Croatia offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Zadar, Karlovac County, and Zagreb. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Zagreb.

When you're ready to see some sights, Market Zadar is a great place to start with. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,657 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Narodni trg. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,636 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Roman Forum. The point of interest has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,709 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Sea organ. This tide organ is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 57,178 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Zadar and set your GPS to Karlovac County. 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 2 hours 26 min. Upon reaching Karlovac County, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Zagreb, 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 Karlovac County to Zagreb may take around 51 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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.

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.

Visit the popular Vinodol. Serving a menu of mouthwatering dishes, this restaurant is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,410 customers.

Another restaurant you should check out during your cheap vacation in Croatia is Pri zvoncu. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,325 customers, this famous restaurant is one of the area's most recommended places to eat.

If you wish to dine at a restaurant locals love, go to the wonderful Pivnica Medvedgrad Ilica. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 4,156 customers, and is an awesome place to satisfy your craving for good food and service.

When you’ve finished your meal, Krolo is one of the best bars in Zagreb for an after-dinner drink. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 520 customers.

Vintage Industrial Bar is another of the most popular bars in the city. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,500 customers.

Alternatively, check out Esplanade Zagreb Hotel. This popular place has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, as rated by 2,925 customers.

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

Your budget road trip vacation in Croatia is about to end. Day 9 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Zagreb.

Make the most of your final day in Croatia by visiting Zagreb’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments.

Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Croatia.

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 Boban. This restaurant has a menu of appetizing and affordable meals and is rated at an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,445 customers.

Submarine Burger Frankopanska is an excellent alternative if you feel like eating something else. This restaurant serves a variety of savory and budget-friendly dishes and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,795 customers.

Another popular restaurant you could check out is Harat's Pub. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,602 customers, this restaurant is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of Croatia and 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!