7-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rijeka traveling east to Senj, Šibenik, Zadar, and Zagreb
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Description
Explore the best of Croatia on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Rijeka, Senj, Bogatić, Šibenik, Split, Zadar, Općina Jasenice, Karlovac County, and Zagreb. This road trip itinerary in Croatia seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
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 Rijeka, 1 night in Senj, 1 night in Šibenik, 1 night in Zadar, and 1 night in Zagreb. 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 Rijeka, 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. Diocletian's Palace and Sea Organ are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Krka National Park, learn more about the unique Zagreb Zoo, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Ban Josip Jelačić Statue.
As you hit the open road and drive through Rijeka, Senj, Bogatić, Šibenik, Split, Zadar, Općina Jasenice, Karlovac County, and Zagreb, 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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Day 1
- Rijeka - Arrival day
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- Korzo
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Your road trip adventure in Croatia begins as soon as you reach Rijeka and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Rijeka 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.
Rijeka 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 Korzo, a must-see street, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Rijeka. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
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 Rijeka, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Antonio, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Capote y Ole. Offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Baćo is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Rijeka.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Charlie Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Wine Bar "kod Zajca", a bar catering to every mood and preference. Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001 likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Croatia!
Day 2
- Rijeka
- Senj
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Drive 64 km, 1 hour 33 min
- Petar Kružić Stairway
- Church of Mary of God of Trsat
- Trsat Castle
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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 Rijeka. In the evening, you’ll end up in Senj, where you will stay for 1 night.
Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Petar Kružić Stairway. This locally appreciated monument is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat, one of the city’s best highlights.
Next, check out Trsat Castle, one of the most interesting places to see in Rijeka. This castle is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Senj. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Senj. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Pizzeria King, a highly-rated dining destination in Senj. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bistro i Caffe bar "Kod tri mornara", another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Uskok. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Senj this evening.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Pirassa Caffe Gelateria stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Cafe Bar Julijus offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Erna is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing 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.
Day 3
- Senj
- Šibenik
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Drive 274 km, 3 hours 39 min
- Velika vrata
- Roski waterfall
- Krka National Park
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Senj and Bogatić. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Šibenik. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
A blend of family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots await you in Senj on today’s itinerary. First up is the underrated monument, Velika Vrata. Afterward, continue to Roski Waterfall, a waterfall every traveler should visit.
As you explore Senj’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town. Next, make your way to Krka National Park. This widely recognized national park is an essential stop.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Šibenik, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Šibenik's best restaurants.
Begin your culinary exploration in Šibenik by securing a reservation at Pelegrini. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, Fry Guy boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Caffe Palma. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Mystic, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Azimut provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
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
- Šibenik
- Zadar
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Drive 255 km, 3 hours 46 min
- Forest Park Marjan
- Diocletian's Palace
- Sea organ
- Church of St. Donatus
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Split and 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.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Šibenik, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Marjan, a captivating park in the city. Then, head to Diocletian's Palace and soak in the ambiance of this enchanting palace.
There are many interesting places to see in Šibenik, and when you are ready for more, go to Sea Organ. This is one of the city’s most extraordinary visually striking spots of interest. After exploring the art installation, visit the beloved Church Of St. Donatus.
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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Zadar. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Pizzeria Šime, a popular restaurant in Zadar. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zadar at Harvatski restorant "Galiya", another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Restoran Zadar - Jadera. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zadar tonight.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Yachting Bar & Club, known for its lively atmosphere. Caffe Bar Porthos is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Factory Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!
Day 5
- Zadar
- Zagreb
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Drive 315 km, 3 hours 55 min
- Maslenica Bridge
- Pariževačka glavica
- Aquatika
- Drveni Most
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Općina Jasenice, Rupine, and Karlovac County. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zagreb, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Start by visiting Maslenica Bridge, a prime spot to begin your journey. Next on your list is Pariževačka Glavica, another must-visit landmark and worthwhile cliff renowned for its instagrammable features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Zadar by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Aquatika. This instagrammable aquarium is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Zadar experience. We also recommend visiting Drveni Most, a curiosity-inducing sightseeing destination.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Zagreb's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Have a memorable dining experience in Zagreb by booking a table at Tač, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional traditional menu. For a different culinary experience in Zagreb, Noel shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Beštija is known as a top local spot for its delicious contemporary cuisine in Zagreb. This Bib Gourmand awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Tesla New Generation, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Caffe Bar Destino, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Booze And Blues likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!
Day 6
- Zagreb
- Rijeka
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Drive 174 km, 2 hours 23 min
- Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
- Park Maksimir
- Zagreb Zoo
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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Zagreb, 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 Rijeka. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Start at the captivating Ban Josip Jelačić Statue, a symbolic monument in Zagreb. Next, go to Park Maksimir.
After visiting Ban Josip Jelačić Statue and Park Maksimir, have a stroll along Zagreb's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Zagreb Zoo. This visually striking zoo offers a unique experience.
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.
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.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Rijeka by securing a table at Nebo by Deni Srdoč. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern and creative menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Zelena Dolina, another premier location with a delectable menu.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Teatro Lounge Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Book Caffe Dnevni Boravak for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Pub "bačva" is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Croatia!
Day 7
- Rijeka - Departure day
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- Venetian House
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Day 7 of your road trip in Croatia is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Rijeka 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 Venetian House, an enchanting historical landmark before you head out.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Rijeka.
Savor the flavors at Restoran Morčić, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bowling Center Rijeka beckons with its unique menu offerings.
You’ll then say farewell to Rijeka. 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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