One-Week Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rijeka to Zadar, Šibenik, and Zagreb

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Rijeka for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Rijeka, featuring a charming, a stunning, a picture-perfect, a historic, a stunning, and a majestic. Start at Trsat Castle, a popular castle in the city. Then, head to Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking church.

There are many interesting places to see in Rijeka and when you are ready for more, go to Petar Kružić Stairway. This is one of the city’s most frequently visited spots. After exploring the monument, visit the curiosity-inducing Maritime And History Museum Of The Croatian Coast.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Rijeka. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Rijeka by booking a table at Nebo by Deni Srdoč. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Zelena Dolina, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Teatro Lounge Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Book Caffe Dnevni Boravak, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Pub "bačva" provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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

Set your GPS to Pula and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 33 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Pula beckons with new experiences!

Your self-guided tour starts at Aquarium Pula, a captivating aquarium that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Temple Of Augustus and admire its culturally significant features. When you’re ready, continue to Forum Square, an often recommended public square beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Pula Arena, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Rijeka.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Rijeka's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restoran Morčić, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bowling Center Rijeka? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Seafood restaurant Feral as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Rijeka.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Pet Jedan Tapas Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, "metropolis" Caffe Bar & Night Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Caffe Bar Kosi Toranj also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Croatia.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Zadar. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zadar, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Rijeka, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Zadar may take around 3 hours 5 min. Upon your arrival in Zadar, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your journey at Sea Organ and explore the culturally significant features. Next, make your way to Market Zadar, another highlight in the city. When you’re done exploring the market, continue to Church Of St. Donatus, a culturally significant church. Nearby, you will also find Narodni Trg. This up-and-coming public square is a top place to see in the area.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Zadar. Zadar offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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.

Dine in style at Pizzeria Šime, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Harvatski restorant "Galiya" boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restoran Zadar - Jadera. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zadar.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Yachting Bar & Club, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Caffe Bar Porthos, a bar catering to every mood and preference. The Factory Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Croatia!

On day 5 of your road trip in Croatia, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Općina Jasenice and Split. In the evening, you’ll end up in Šibenik, where you will stay for 1 night.

Općina Jasenice’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Zadar behind. This drive usually takes around 33 min. Općina Jasenice welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Take your self-guided tour to Maslenica Bridge, an up-and-coming deck arch bridge that everyone visiting Općina Jasenice should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Općina Jasenice, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Split. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 36 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Head to Diocletian's Palace, a widely recognized palace in Split. Explore its enchanting features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Marjan. This captivating park is a top recommendation in the area. When you’re ready to explore more, Mestrovic Gallery is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most picture-perfect art gallery in the region.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Šibenik. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Šibenik's best restaurants.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Pelegrini in Šibenik by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Pelegrini delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Fry Guy? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Caffe Palma, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Mystic offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Šibenik. Azimut is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Zagreb. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zagreb. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Immerse yourself in Zagreb’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Krka National Park. Spend some time admiring the majestic features of the national park before you continue to your next stop.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Zagreb.

Spend your afternoon discovering Bundek, a well-known park known for its romantic features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb, a beloved performing arts theater that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Zinfandel's Restaurant, a top-rated dining spot in Zagreb. If you're in the mood for something new, try Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Rougemarin City. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zagreb.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Tesla New Generation. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Destino offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Booze And Blues, another top-rated bar in the area.

Say good night to Zagreb and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!

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

Zagreb is home to plenty of attractions that offer an instagrammable, a standout, a symbolic, a masterful, a breathtaking, a profound, a charming, and a majestic! Start at Ban Josip Jelačić Statue, a captivating monument that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Zagreb Cathedral, enchanting visitors with its historic appeal. Continue your exploration at Park Maksimir. This park is one of the city’s most locally renowned spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Zagreb at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Zagreb Zoo.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Rijeka. Rijeka offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Rijeka. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at ŠtoRija, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Conca d'oro beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restoran Spagho. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Rijeka tonight.

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

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Croatia.