12-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rijeka traveling south to 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 3 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Rijeka today. One of the most interesting attractions included on the itinerary is Trsat Castle. This respected castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat and learn what makes this romantic church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the curiosity-inducing Petar Kružić Stairway. After exploring the monument, head to Maritime And History Museum Of The Croatian Coast. This often recommended museum is a highlight in Rijeka.

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.

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.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Teatro Lounge Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Book Caffe Dnevni Boravak, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Pub "bačva" provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!

Greet day 3 of your road trip in Croatia with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Rijeka for your remaining 2 nights in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Gedići and Rovinj.

Rijeka is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a cave, an observation deck, a church, a park and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the increasingly popular Baredine Cave and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Panorama, a romantic observation deck that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Church Of St. Euphemia, one of the village’s most intriguing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the often recommended Park Forest Zlatni Rt.

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

As you explore more of Rijeka, 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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restoran Morčić, a popular restaurant in Rijeka. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Rijeka at Bowling Center Rijeka, 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 Seafood restaurant Feral. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Rijeka tonight.

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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Rijeka, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today’s itinerary in Rijeka covers several incredible sights, including an archeological site, a public square, a monument, an aquarium and much more! Start your adventure at Pula Arena. This top-rated archeological site is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the history-steeped wonders of Forum Square, a must-see public square in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Temple Of Augustus. This well-known monument offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Aquarium Pula, where you can take in picture-perfect features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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

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.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Vela Učka, Opatija, Crikvenica, and Senj. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Senj, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Rijeka is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Nature Park Učka, a worthwhile nature reserve that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find Slatina, enchanting visitors with its serene appeal. Continue your exploration at Maiden With The Seagull. This sculpture is one of the village’s most worthwhile spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Rijeka at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Aquarium Crikvenica. After exploring the aquarium, head to the often recommended Nehaj Fortress.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Senj's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Pizzeria King, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bistro i Caffe bar "Kod tri mornara" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant Uskok. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Senj.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Pirassa Caffe Gelateria. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Cafe Bar Julijus offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Erna, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Rupine, Općina Jasenice, Općina Ražanac, and Nin. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zadar, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Senj on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Pariževačka Glavica is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this idyllic cliff before continuing your journey. Maslenica Bridge is your next stop. This curiosity-inducing deck arch bridge is one of the best-rated sights in Senj.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Paški Most. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Solana Nin Salt Museum.

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

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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Yachting Bar & Club after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Caffe Bar Porthos, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Factory Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 7 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 Split, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and budget-friendly activities. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Market Zadar. This worthwhile market is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Narodni Trg, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Church Of St. Donatus, one of the most increasingly popular places to see in Zadar. This church is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Roman Forum. Wander around and soak in the picture-perfect atmosphere this archeological site offers. Then, head to Sea Organ, a top-rated art installation that adds another dimension to your day.

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

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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, La Linea offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Fabrique Pub is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

On day 8 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Split, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Grad Biograd na Moru and Split. You still have 1 night left in Split.

Today's adventure in Split promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Plaža Soline. This peaceful beach is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Marjan, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Golden Gate, one of the town’s most worthwhile attractions, known for its symbolic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Diocletian's Palace. This UNESCO world heritage-designated palace is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Babylon, a top-rated dining destination in Split. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider DeListes restaurant Split, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bokeria Kitchen & Wine. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Split this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Caffe Bar Mythos, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Caffe Bar Legis, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Caffe Bar Tik likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Dive into day 10 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 Zagreb. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Lika-Senj County promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Park Maksimir. This romantic park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Zagreb Zoo, another picture-perfect attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Zagreb Cathedral, one of the city’s most locally renowned attractions, known for its historic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Ban Josip Jelačić Statue. This symbolic monument is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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

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

Discover the culinary delights of Zagreb by securing a reservation at Tač. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of traditional cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Noel, renowned for its delicious modern dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Beštija, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering contemporary menu. With its Bib Gourmand recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Keep the evening going at Tesla New Generation, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Caffe Bar Destino, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Booze And Blues, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Head back to your accommodation in Zagreb and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Croatia!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 11 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 Rijeka, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Zagreb, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Stone Gate, a frequently visited historical landmark in the city. Then, head to Technical Museum and soak in the ambiance of this standout museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Zagreb, and when you are ready for more, go to Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb. This is one of the city’s most worthwhile instagrammable spots of interest. After exploring the performing arts theater, visit the frequently visited Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb. Not far away, you'll also find Bundek. This park is a majestic highlight in Zagreb.

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 Barbacoa, 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 Konoba Ribica, 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 Na Sušaku, 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 Stop Caffe & Club, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, River offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Celtic Caffe Bard 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.