Relaxed 7-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rijeka to Zagreb

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Croatia means 24 hours of making the best memories in Rijeka. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Rijeka. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Rijeka!

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the popular Trsat Castle, an enchanting castle in Rijeka. Next, go to Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat.

After visiting Trsat Castle and Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat, have a stroll along Rijeka's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Maritime And History Museum Of The Croatian Coast. This heritage-rich museum offers a unique experience. Islamic Center Of Rijeka is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

Croatia makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Croatia also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Rijeka, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Rijeka by booking a table at Nebo by Deni Srdoč, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern and creative menu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Zelena Dolina, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Rijeka. The bars in Rijeka make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Teatro Lounge Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Book Caffe Dnevni Boravak offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Pub "bačva" is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Rijeka and visit amazing attractions in Pula destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Rijeka. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Start at the interesting Aquarium Pula, a photogenic aquarium in Rijeka. Next, go to Temple Of Augustus.

After visiting Aquarium Pula and Temple Of Augustus, have a stroll along Rijeka's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Forum Square. This visually striking public square offers a unique experience. Pula Arena is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restoran Morčić, a top-rated dining spot in Rijeka. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bowling Center Rijeka, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Seafood restaurant Feral. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Rijeka.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Croatia.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Pet Jedan Tapas Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, "metropolis" Caffe Bar & Night Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Caffe Bar Kosi Toranj is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Croatia.

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Croatia will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Croatia, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Today’s agenda in Rijeka includes a botanical garden, a performing arts theater, a church, a monument and much more! Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb is must-visit botanical garden and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb, an up-and-coming performing arts theater, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Zagreb Cathedral, a culturally significant church, also available for your discovery today.

In the city of Zagreb, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Croatia.

Exploring the food culture in Zagreb offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Tač in Zagreb by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Tač offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious traditional menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Noel, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Beštija, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional contemporary menu.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Continue your lively evening at Tesla New Generation, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Caffe Bar Destino is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Booze And Blues ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Croatia.

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia, you’ll go deep into Zagreb, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Zagreb, and meet locals along the way!

Today’s agenda in Zagreb includes a park, a zoo, and a museum. Park Maksimir is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Zagreb Zoo, a popular zoo, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Technical Museum, an eye-catching museum, also available for your discovery today.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Croatia. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Croatia and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Zagreb has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Savor the flavors at Restoran Taurus, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Trilogija - Vino & Kuhinja beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Pizzeria Park. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zagreb tonight.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Zagreb.

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.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Croatia!

Day 6 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Croatia gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Zagreb. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Rijeka, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Zagreb allows for both. Start by heading to Stone Gate. This locally appreciated historical landmark provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Museum Of Broken Relationships, a photogenic museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Lotrščak Tower, a curiosity-inducing historical landmark.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Croatia at Rijeka. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Croatia. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Rijeka, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a delicious meal at ŠtoRija, a top-rated dining destination in Rijeka. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Conca d'oro, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran Spagho. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Rijeka this evening.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Rijeka.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Public Pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Kancelarija Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Beertija Klub also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Croatia. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Croatia tomorrow with new energy.