5-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zadar traveling west to Rijeka

On day 2 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 Zadar. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rijeka, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Zadar is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and wallet-friendly activities! Start at Market Zadar, an intriguing market that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Roman Forum, enchanting visitors with its culturally significant appeal. Continue your exploration at Church Of St. Donatus. This church is one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots.

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

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Rijeka. 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 Rijeka. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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 Restaurant Capote y Ole. , another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Charlie Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Wine Bar "kod Zajca" is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001 also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 3 of your road trip in Croatia, you’ll start and end your day in Rijeka, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Rijeka for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Pula to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Rijeka. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Aquarium Pula is the perfect place to start. This aquarium is one of the most interesting places to visit in Rijeka. Next, head to Forum Square, an intriguing public square, known for its history-steeped 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 Temple Of Augustus. This symbolic monument is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Pula Arena. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

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

Dine in style at Trattoria Krug, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Zelena Dolina boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Buffet "Cocco". Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Rijeka.

Keep the evening going at Teatro Lounge Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Book Caffe Dnevni Boravak, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Pub "bačva", which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Rijeka, Senj, Perušić, and Smiljan, 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 Zadar. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Trsat Castle. This interesting castle is an awe-inspiring place to see in Rijeka. Continue your discovery at Nehaj Fortress, a picture-perfect castle with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Rijeka, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Grabovača. This beloved cave system offers a visually striking encounter with Rijeka. Next, make your way to Nikola Tesla Memorial Center to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Rijeka.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Zadar. Zadar 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 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top-rated dining spot in Zadar. If you're in the mood for something new, try Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant 2Ribara. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zadar.

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

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