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

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Photo of Zadar archipelago. Kali on Ugljan island turquoise sea and walkway view, Croatia.
Photo of Zadar historic Fosa harbor bay in Zadar ,boats and architecture colorful view, Croatia.
Photo of town of Zadar historic peninsula panoramic aerial view, Croatia.
Photo of two girls walking on top of Sun Salutation installation near the sea shore against the background of a hill range and cloudy morning sky, Zadar, Croatia.
Photo of clock tower on the people's square in historic center of the Zadar town at the Mediterranean Sea, Croatia.
Photo of aerial view of famous Fosa harbor in Zadar, Croatia.
Photo of lighthouse in Zadar, Croatia.
Photo of scenic view at coastal town Zadar in Croatia, famous riva in city center.
Photo of aerial view of the Zadar old town and sea, Croatia.
Photo of Saint Anastasia Cathedral, (Katedrala Sv. Stosije), Zadar, Croatia.
Photo of Fisherman's red house on the water, Croatia, Zadar.
Photo of sea gate in the historical center of Croatian town Zadar, Croatia.
Photo of the city of Zadar in Croatia at sunset.
Photo of Church of St. Donatus in Zadar, Croatia at sunset.
Photo of Rjecina river Delta and pedestrian bridge in Rijeka, Croatia.
Photo of beautiful view of Rijeka harbor in Croatia.
Photo of city of Rijeka Delta street view in springtime, Kvarner bay, Croatia.
Photo of aerial view of city of Rijeka and Rjecina river, Croatia.
Photo of aerial panoramic view of city center of Rijeka, Croatia.
Photo of aerial view of old bridge with a boat passing under it, Rijeka, Croatia.
Photo of city of Rijeka, skyline view from Delta and Rjecina river over the boats in front, colorful old buildings, Croatia.
Photo of Rijeka square and fountain view with clock tower gate, Kvarner, Croatia.
Photo of Sablicevo beach in Rijeka, Croatia.
Photo of Kasalisni Park and Theater Building in Rijeka, Croatia.
Photo of Crnojevića bridge Rijeka, Croatia.
Photo of Capuchin Church of Our Lady of Lourdes, Rijeka, Croatia.
Photo of the St. Vitus Cathedral is a Catholic cathedral in Rijeka, Croatia.
Photo of city of Rijeka historic architecture street view, Kvarner bay, Croatia.
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through Croatia. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Croatia takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Zadar and 2 nights in Rijeka. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Croatia. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.

Upon arriving in Zadar, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Croatia on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Croatia. Pula Arena and Sea Organ are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Trsat Castle, learn more about the unique Aquarium Pula, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Temple Of Augustus.

As you hit the open road and drive through Zadar, Rijeka, Pula, Senj, Perušić, and Smiljan, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Croatia. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Croatia.

Throughout your road trip in Croatia, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Croatia.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Croatia fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Croatia today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Sea organ
Market ZadarRoman ForumChurch of St. DonatusPeople's Square
Aquarium PulaForum SquareTemple of AugustusPula Arena
Trsat CastleNehaj FortressGrabovačaNikola Tesla Memorial Center
Kolovare Beach

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Zadar - Arrival day
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  • Sea organ
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Your road trip adventure in Croatia begins as soon as you reach Zadar and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Zadar for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Zadar is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Sea Organ, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Zadar. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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

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

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Yachting Bar & Club, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Caffe Bar Porthos. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at The Factory Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Croatia!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Zadar
  • Rijeka
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Drive 308 km, 3 hours 32 min

  • Market Zadar
  • Roman Forum
  • Church of St. Donatus
  • People's Square
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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!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Rijeka
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Drive 225 km, 3 hours 18 min

  • Aquarium Pula
  • Forum Square
  • Temple of Augustus
  • Pula Arena
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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!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Rijeka
  • Zadar
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Drive 279 km, 4 hours 5 min

  • Trsat Castle
  • Nehaj Fortress
  • Grabovača
  • Nikola Tesla Memorial Center
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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!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Zadar - Departure day
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  • Kolovare Beach
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Day 5 of your road trip in Croatia is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Zadar before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Kolovare Beach, a mesmerizing beach before you head out.

On your last day in Croatia, take time to indulge in shopping at Zadar’s popular marketplace, City Galleria. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces.

Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Zadar.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Roko, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Harbor CookHouse & Club offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restoran Urnebes.

You’ll then say farewell to Zadar. 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!

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