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

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Explore the best of Croatia on a 9-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Rijeka, Senj, Općina Jasenice, Zadar, Bogatić, Grad Skradin, Split, Šibenik, Lika-Senj 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, 2 nights in Zadar, 1 night in Split, 1 night in Lika-Senj County, 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, Općina Jasenice, Zadar, Bogatić, Grad Skradin, Split, Šibenik, Lika-Senj 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Korzo
Maritime and History Museum of the Croatian CoastPetar Kružić StairwayChurch of Mary of God of TrsatTrsat Castle
Velika vrataNehaj FortressMaslenica BridgePariževačka glavicaPaklenica National Park
Sea organRoman ForumChurch of St. DonatusPeople's SquareMarket Zadar
Serbian Monastery KrkaRoski waterfallKrka National ParkSkradinski buk
Diocletian's PalaceGolden GateForest Park MarjanSt. Jacob’s Cathedral

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Day 1

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Antonio, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Capote y Ole. ? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Baćo as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Rijeka.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Charlie Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Wine Bar "kod Zajca", the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Phanas Pub Rijeka Est.2001 provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Croatia!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Rijeka
  • Senj
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Drive 65 km, 1 hour 41 min

  • Maritime and History Museum of the Croatian Coast
  • Petar Kružić Stairway
  • Church of Mary of God of Trsat
  • Trsat Castle
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will explore Rijeka, 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 Senj. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Rijeka, including a museum, a monument, a church, a castle and much more! Start your day with a visit to Maritime And History Museum Of The Croatian Coast. This worthwhile museum is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Petar Kružić Stairway, which may be one of the most picture-perfect places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Rijeka on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat, an intriguing church in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Trsat Castle.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Senj, 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 Senj. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Pizzeria King, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bistro i Caffe bar "Kod tri mornara" offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurant Uskok is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Senj.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Pirassa Caffe Gelateria, known for its inviting atmosphere. Cafe Bar Julijus is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Erna provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Senj
  • Zadar
  • More

Drive 231 km, 3 hours 17 min

  • Velika vrata
  • Nehaj Fortress
  • Maslenica Bridge
  • Pariževačka glavica
  • Paklenica National Park
  • More

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 4 vibrant destinations - Senj, Općina Jasenice, Rupine, and Parići. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zadar. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Nehaj Fortress, a culturally significant castle that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Maslenica Bridge, one of the town’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the intriguing Pariževačka Glavica. When you're finished at the cliff, Paklenica National Park awaits your visit. This national park is an enchanting highlight on today's itinerary.

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.

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.

Dine in style at Pizzeria Šime, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Harvatski restorant "Galiya" boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restoran Zadar - Jadera. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zadar.

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.

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.

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Zadar
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Drive 4 km, 30 min

  • Sea organ
  • Roman Forum
  • Church of St. Donatus
  • People's Square
  • Market Zadar
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Zadar. You’ll stay in Zadar for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Zadar. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Sea Organ is the perfect place to start. This art installation is one of the most spectacular places to visit in Zadar. Next, head to Roman Forum, an up-and-coming archeological site, known for its breathtaking 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 Church Of St. Donatus. This photogenic church is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Narodni Trg and Market Zadar. 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 Zadar's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant 2Ribara. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Pirate Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Caffe Bar Bizarre is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Backstage Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Zadar
  • Split
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Drive 228 km, 3 hours 57 min

  • Serbian Monastery Krka
  • Roski waterfall
  • Krka National Park
  • Skradinski buk
  • More

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Bogatić and Grad Skradin. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Split, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Whether you decide to explore Zadar on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Krka Monastery is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this picture-perfect monastery before continuing your journey. Roski Waterfall is your next stop. This locally appreciated waterfall is one of the best-rated sights in Zadar.

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 Krka National Park. This romantic national park is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Skradinski Buk.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Split. Split 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 Split. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a memorable dining experience in Split by booking a table at Šug, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional regional menu. 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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out La Linea, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Fabrique Pub provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Split
  • Lika-Senj
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Drive 253 km, 3 hours 13 min

  • Diocletian's Palace
  • Golden Gate
  • Forest Park Marjan
  • St. Jacob’s Cathedral
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Split and Šibenik. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lika-Senj County, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Split, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Diocletian's Palace, a famous 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 locally renowned mesmerizing spots of interest. After exploring the park, visit the up-and-coming Šibenik Cathedral.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Highlanders pub, a highly-rated dining destination in Lika-Senj County. If you're eager to try something different, consider Kavana Milinković, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lika-Senj County this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Caffe Bar Fortuna, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Caffe Bar Amadeus is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Caffe Bar Bevanda is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Lika-Senj
  • Zagreb
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Drive 205 km, 2 hours 31 min

  • Bundek City Park
  • Cathedral of Zagreb
  • Stone Gate
  • Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
  • More

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 Zagreb. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zagreb, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Lika-Senj County, including a park, a church, a historical landmark, a monument and much more! Start your day at Bundek. This awe-inspiring park is an interesting place to see in Lika-Senj County. Then, wander over to Zagreb Cathedral. If picture-perfect sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Stone Gate. This historic historical landmark is a favorite among visitors.

Lika-Senj County offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Ban Josip Jelačić Statue is a popular spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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.

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Tesla New Generation after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Caffe Bar Destino for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Booze And Blues 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!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Zagreb
  • Rijeka
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Drive 172 km, 2 hours 29 min

  • Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb
  • Park Maksimir
  • Zagreb Zoo
  • More

Dive into day 8 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.

Get ready for an exciting day in Zagreb. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a performing arts theater, a park, and a zoo. Begin your adventure at Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb. This is an up-and-coming performing arts theater you should not miss. Another must-see is Park Maksimir, an interesting park in Zagreb.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Zagreb Zoo.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Rijeka. Rijeka 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 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 an outstanding dining experience at Nebo by Deni Srdoč, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern and creative menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Rijeka at Zelena Dolina, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

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Day 9

Day 9

  • Rijeka - Departure day
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  • Venetian House
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Day 9 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, begin at Venetian House. This frequently visited historical landmark is a popular place to see in the city.

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.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bowling Center Rijeka, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

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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