11-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rijeka traveling south to Pula, Senj, Zadar, Split, Lika-Senj County, and Zagreb

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Rijeka. You’ll stay in Rijeka for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Rijeka. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Trsat Castle is the perfect place to start. This castle is one of the most locally renowned places to visit in Rijeka. Next, head to Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat, a beloved church, known for its inviting features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Maritime And History Museum Of The Croatian Coast. This photogenic museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Islamic Center Of Rijeka. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

Start your culinary exploration in Rijeka by securing a reservation at Nebo by Deni Srdoč. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Zelena Dolina, a popular restaurant in Rijeka. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Teatro Lounge Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Book Caffe Dnevni Boravak, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Pub "bačva" also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Croatia!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Gedići, Rovinj, and Fažana. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Pula, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Immerse yourself in Rijeka’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Baredine Cave. This eye-catching cave is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the enchanting features of Church Of St. Euphemia, a must-visit church in the village.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Park Forest Zlatni Rt, an increasingly popular park. For a change of scene, check out Fasana, known for its idyllic features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Pula, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Pizzeria Samantha, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Fresh Sandwiches and Salads? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bistro Romantic Alley as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Pula.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Beach Bar Laplaya. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Shipyard Pub offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Zeppelin - Beach & Lounge Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Croatia.

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Pula for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and historic treasures in Pula. Begin your sightseeing with Aquarium Pula. This notable aquarium is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Temple Of Augustus, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Pula, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Forum Square. This worthwhile public square is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Pula Citadel, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Pula Arena is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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 Pula. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Fine fast food Piantina, an iconic dining spot in Pula. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Street Food Two, a popular restaurant in Pula. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restoran "Stari grad 02", a hidden gem nestled in Pula. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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

On day 6 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 Senj, Općina Jasenice, and Parići. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zadar, where you will stay for 1 night.

Velika Vrata is must-visit monument and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Park Nehaj, a beloved castle, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Nehaj Fortress, a respected castle, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Senj. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the worthwhile Maslenica Bridge. If you’re looking for more, Paklenica National Park is also an up-and-coming attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Zadar. 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 Zadar's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Pizzeria Šime, a highly-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're eager to try something different, consider Harvatski restorant "Galiya", another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

Keep the evening going at Yachting Bar & Club, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Caffe Bar Porthos, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Factory Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Croatia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Zadar. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Split. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and wallet-friendly activities. The first attraction of today is Market Zadar. This curiosity-inducing market is a visually striking place to see in Zadar. Continue your discovery at Narodni Trg, a history-steeped public square with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Zadar, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Church Of St. Donatus. This worthwhile church offers a culturally significant encounter with Zadar. Next, make your way to Roman Forum to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Sea Organ, a top-rated art installation that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Zadar.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Split, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Split. 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.

Start your culinary exploration in Split by securing a reservation at Šug. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of regional cuisine. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Perivoj restoran i kavana, a popular restaurant in Split. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to La Linea for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Fabrique Pub is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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.

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Split, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Lika-Senj County. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Split, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Diocletian's Palace, a top-rated palace in the city. Then, head to Golden Gate and soak in the ambiance of this symbolic historical landmark.

There are many interesting places to see in Split, and when you are ready for more, go to Marjan. This is one of the city’s most well-known romantic spots of interest. After exploring the park, visit the impressive Krka National Park.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Lika-Senj County. Lika-Senj County offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you explore more of Lika-Senj County, 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Highlanders pub, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Kavana Milinković offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Lika-Senj County.

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

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Croatia!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Zagreb. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zagreb, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming city of Lika-Senj County. Your adventure starts at Bundek, a captivating local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Zagreb Cathedral. This well-known church is known for its romantic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Lika-Senj County's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Stone Gate. This romantic historical landmark offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Ban Josip Jelačić Statue is also worth visiting.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Zagreb. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Zagreb by booking a table at Tač. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of traditional cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Noel, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Beštija, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing contemporary menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Tesla New Generation. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Caffe Bar Destino, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Booze And Blues provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 10 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.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Zagreb, including a performing arts theater, a park, and a zoo. Start your adventure at Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb. This increasingly popular performing arts theater is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Park Maksimir located in Zagreb for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Zagreb Zoo. Its picture-perfect features will captivate you.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Rijeka, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restoran Morčić, an iconic dining spot in Rijeka. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bowling Center Rijeka, a popular restaurant in Rijeka. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Seafood restaurant Feral, a hidden gem nestled in Rijeka. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

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