Relaxed 7-Day Croatia Road Trip Starting from Pula to Rijeka

Your slow-paced and relaxed road trip through Croatia begins when you reach Pula, where you’ll stay for a total of 3 nights.

Pula is an outstanding hub for culture, comfort, and exploration. The city offers travelers plenty of experiences to look forward to, including the magnificent Verudela Canyon. Around 1,620 visitors have rated this fascinating must-see tourist destination and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

When you're done sightseeing for the day, you'll check in at one of the best hotels or places to stay in the city. Take your pick and make it your home during your leisurely tour of the city.

Exploring the food culture in Pula offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

An excellent example is Veritas Food&Wine. This restaurant offers a menu of comforting meals and is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,550 customers.

Taj Tavern serves great food and is a favorite among hungry travelers and locals. This popular restaurant in Pula has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,079 reviews.

Pizzeria Jupiter is another one of the city’s best restaurants. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,601 customers, Pizzeria Jupiter is sure to provide you with an unforgettable dining experience.

If you’re curious about what Pula looks like at night, a trip to some of the best bars near your accommodation is what you need next. Experience the local nightlife at Rock Bar Mimoza, our top recommendation in the city. Customers have rated this bar an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 613 reviews.

The Shipyard Pub offers a variety of refreshing drinks and is one of the best places to relax in Pula. This well-known city bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,622 customers.

Locals like unwinding at Zeppelin - Beach & lounge bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,777 customers and is a perfect place for socializing.

Free your mind of worries and enjoy your first taste of relaxation in Croatia! Expect more to come as you continue this laid-back and relaxed road trip in Croatia!

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Croatia, you'll explore the best attractions in Pula at your own pace and immerse in the city's unique local culture. Today's laid-back tour features some of the best restaurants and bars in Pula, where you can sample some delicious local food.

The accommodation you’ll be staying at for another 2 nights will be conveniently located close to several attractions, like the famous Aquarium Pula. This incredible aquarium has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 9,716 travelers.

Make the most of your slow-paced travel adventure in Croatia by seeing another popular site in Pula, the wonderful Temple of Augustus. This archaeological site is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,716 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Forum Square. This must-see tourist destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,726 visitors.

Another stop you might want to add to your self-drive itinerary is the remarkable Pula Citadel. This must-see tourist destination is sought after by many travelers from around the world. The popular attraction has received 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,536 visitors.

If you want to discover more, consider stopping by the famous Pula Arena. This amazing site is a wonderful roman amphitheatre with more than 58,562 wanderlust-filled travelers rating it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 2 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Croatia. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Pula itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city. Add a highly recommended tour to your vacation package now and make this refreshing new day of your self-drive through Croatia extra special!

After a long day exploring the popular attractions in the city, it’s time to sample the different kinds of mouthwatering foods served at the best restaurants in Pula. One of our top recommendations includes a selection of delicious meals on its menu, Konoba Boccaporta. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,823 customers.

You may also try the variety of dishes served at Pizzeria Samantha, which is an excellent choice if you want a nice place to eat near your accommodation. Pizzeria Samantha is rated 4.6 stars out of 5 by 2,103 customers.

You can also eat at the highly recommended El Pulari. This amazing restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,101 food lovers.

After finishing your meal, it’s time to experience the amazing nightlife in Pula and unwind at the coolest bars in the city. Drink the night away and celebrate this day of your relaxed road trip at the popular Hook & Cook Pula. This vibrant bar is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,587 customers.

If you want to try a different bar, check out the popular Old City Bar Pula. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,368 customers, this bar is a great place to try some excellent liquor.

Another recommendation you shouldn’t miss is Cabahia. Drink up and relax in this amazing bar that serves different kinds of alcoholic beverages and cocktail drinks. Cabahia has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 664 bar goers.

Enjoy the rest of day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Croatia, and prepare for another day of unhurried adventure!

Day 3 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Croatia gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience two places in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Vela Učka. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Rijeka, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 3 nights.

When you’re ready to head to your first attraction of the day, the wonderful Nature Park Učka is waiting for you. This park has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,438 visitors.

Make the most of your relaxed road trip vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Vela Učka has in store for you. There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your relaxed road trip in Croatia. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

Turn on some soothing tunes in the car because it’s now time to drive to the city of Rijeka. In Rijeka, you can choose among the best hotels and places to rest and recharge to complement your relaxed road trip experience in Croatia.

After a long day of driving and exploring along your relaxed road trip route, sitting down for a well-cooked restaurant meal in Krk is an excellent idea.

A popular restaurant we recommend you try is Konoba Tarsa, one of the best restaurants in Krk. With a lovely menu and an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,076 customers, you can’t go wrong with choosing Konoba Tarsa.

Locals also recommend Barbacoa as one of the top restaurants in the area. So if you’re feeling hungry, don’t forget to check out the menu at Barbacoa as well. This local-favorite restaurant is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,487 customers.

If you feel like having something else, you could also book a table at Konoba Fiume. Konoba Fiume is another of the most popular places to eat in Krk. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 933 customers.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

If you would like to celebrate your vacation with a drink, we recommend going to a place like Book caffe Dnevni boravak. Book caffe Dnevni boravak is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,024 customers and is one of the best bars you can visit tonight.

Another lively bar worth checking out tonight is The Beertija Klub. This is the perfect place to enjoy a couple of drinks if you want to continue your celebrations. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,087 customers gives you an idea of what to expect from this bar.

Alternatively, head to Teatro Lounge Bar. This popular bar will bring up your mood and give you a good ending to your night. Teatro Lounge Bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 738 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration and anticipation of your memorable and relaxing road trip adventure through Croatia!

Day 4 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip through Croatia serves as your introduction to Rijeka. This is your chance to experience the very best of the city and appreciate Croatia and its distinct culture and people.

Upon arriving in Rijeka, you can check in at the accommodation of your choice for a quick break. This 4-star hotel has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 42 former guests.

You’ll enjoy restful days and nights at the 5-star Hilton Rijeka Costabella Beach Resort & Spa. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,200 guests, Hilton Rijeka Costabella Beach Resort & Spa is the best luxury hotel option we recommend while in the city.

The 4-star Hotel Jadran offers comfort at an affordable price, perfect for practical travelers. Hotel Jadran is a top-rated budget hotel in Rijeka with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,927 guests.

These recommendations are among the most popular places to stay in Rijeka. If any of these options are not available during your stay in the city, we’ll provide you with the best alternatives. Our flexible booking system will automatically offer you a selection of accommodations that fit your budget and needs.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Rijeka, allowing you to explore the city at a relaxed pace. For example, you can take in the unique atmosphere of the city from the outstanding Trsat Castle. This castle and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in Rijeka. The fascinating Trsat Castle has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,516 travelers.

Rijeka is also home to the captivating Church of Mary of God of Trsat, a local church and another popular attraction in the city. About 2,485 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.8 out of 5 stars.

The extraordinary Petar Kružić Stairway is another unforgettable place you can visit on your easy and relaxed road trip across Croatia. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 799 travelers, Petar Kružić Stairway proves to be one of the top sights in the area.

You’ll enjoy the time you’ll spend at the incredible Venetian House. A trip to this wonderful site will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing must-see tourist destination and attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 25 reviews.

When you’re in the mood to experience something amazing, we recommend you visit the fantastic Islamic Center of Rijeka. Every year, travelers gather around this fascinating mosque and sightseeing spot to appreciate its unique features. Around 952 visitors have rated the famous Islamic Center of Rijeka an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Rijeka, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available on this day of your relaxed road trip across Croatia.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Croatia. After a day of appreciating the best places to visit in Rijeka, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Ranking high on our list of the best restaurants in Rijeka is Boonker. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 3,735 customers, you really have to try the savory dishes of this excellent restaurant.

Locals love Bistro Mornar for its delicious meals, and we recommend you visit the restaurant at least once during your stay in Rijeka. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,156 customers.

Another alternative is Konoba Ribica. This restaurant serves a variety of comforting food and drinks and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,872 customers.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Rijeka. At River, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,197 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your relaxed road trip at Pet Jedan Tapas Bar, another popular bar in the city. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 898 reviews.

Pub "Bačva" is also one of the best places in Rijeka where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 781 customers.

Sleep comfortably and prepare for another day of your laid-back adventure in Croatia!

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Croatia, you'll explore the best attractions in Rijeka at your own pace and immerse in the city's unique local culture. Today's laid-back tour features some of the best restaurants and bars in Rijeka, where you can sample some delicious local food.

The accommodation you’ll be staying at for another 1 night will be conveniently located close to several attractions, like the famous City Clock Tower. This incredible top-tier point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,339 travelers.

Make the most of your slow-paced travel adventure in Croatia by seeing another popular site in Rijeka, the wonderful Rijeka Cathedral. This cathedral is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,339 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Natural History Museum Rijeka. This natural history museum has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 792 visitors.

Another stop you might want to add to your self-drive itinerary is the remarkable Maritime and History Museum of the Croatian Coast. This museum is sought after by many travelers from around the world. The popular attraction has received 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,043 visitors.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 5 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Croatia. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Rijeka itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city. Add a highly recommended tour to your vacation package now and make this refreshing new day of your self-drive through Croatia extra special!

After a long day exploring the popular attractions in the city, it’s time to sample the different kinds of mouthwatering foods served at the best restaurants in Rijeka. One of our top recommendations includes a selection of delicious meals on its menu, Na Sušaku. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,775 customers.

You may also try the variety of dishes served at King’s Caffe food pub, which is an excellent choice if you want a nice place to eat near your accommodation. King’s Caffe food pub is rated 4.6 stars out of 5 by 1,389 customers.

You can also eat at the highly recommended Submarine Burger Rijeka. This amazing restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,653 food lovers.

After finishing your meal, it’s time to experience the amazing nightlife in Rijeka and unwind at the coolest bars in the city. Drink the night away and celebrate this day of your relaxed road trip at the popular Milord Pub. This vibrant bar is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 748 customers.

If you want to try a different bar, check out the popular Phanas Pub Rijeka est.2001. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 753 customers, this bar is a great place to try some excellent liquor.

Another recommendation you shouldn’t miss is "Metropolis" Caffe Bar & Night Bar. Drink up and relax in this amazing bar that serves different kinds of alcoholic beverages and cocktail drinks. "Metropolis" Caffe Bar & Night Bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 675 bar goers.

Enjoy the rest of day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Croatia, and prepare for another day of unhurried adventure!

Day 6 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Croatia gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience two places in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Gedići. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Pula, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

When you’re ready to head to your first attraction of the day, the wonderful Baredine Cave is waiting for you. This show cave has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,659 visitors.

Make the most of your relaxed road trip vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Gedići has in store for you. There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your relaxed road trip in Croatia. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

Turn on some soothing tunes in the car because it’s now time to drive to the city of Pula. In Pula, you can choose among the best hotels and places to rest and recharge to complement your relaxed road trip experience in Croatia.

After a long day of driving and exploring along your relaxed road trip route, sitting down for a well-cooked restaurant meal in Rovinj is an excellent idea.

A popular restaurant we recommend you try is Grill bar Campo, one of the best restaurants in Rovinj. With a lovely menu and an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,879 customers, you can’t go wrong with choosing Grill bar Campo.

Locals also recommend Bistro Alighieri as one of the top restaurants in the area. So if you’re feeling hungry, don’t forget to check out the menu at Bistro Alighieri as well. This local-favorite restaurant is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,688 customers.

If you feel like having something else, you could also book a table at Grill restaurant "Odisej". Grill restaurant "Odisej" is another of the most popular places to eat in Rovinj. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,787 customers.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

If you would like to celebrate your vacation with a drink, we recommend going to a place like Ribarska Koliba Resort. Ribarska Koliba Resort is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 598 customers and is one of the best bars you can visit tonight.

Another lively bar worth checking out tonight is Beach Bar LaPlaya. This is the perfect place to enjoy a couple of drinks if you want to continue your celebrations. The average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 539 customers gives you an idea of what to expect from this bar.

Alternatively, head to Bass bar Pula. This popular bar will bring up your mood and give you a good ending to your night. Bass bar Pula is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 349 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration and anticipation of your memorable and relaxing road trip adventure through Croatia!

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in Croatia is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Pula.

Depending on when you need to leave, you might be able to fit in some sightseeing or shopping. Embrace the beauty of Pula once more and find some souvenirs to help you remember your time in the city. To end your relaxing road trip in Croatia on top, we recommend visiting some of the following attractions.

Šijana/Siana Forest is an extraordinary attraction that is perfect for your last day in Pula. This top sight is a popular park, rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,182 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Pula or just grab something light to keep you going.

Check out the menu at Pizzeria Peperoncino. Dining at Pizzeria Peperoncino is one of the best food experiences you can have in Pula. This popular restaurant is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,251 customers.

Another top recommendation in Pula is Kažun Tavern. If you go to Kažun Tavern, you can expect delicious food, a nice ambiance, and great service. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,186 customers.

Alternatively, you could also go to a place like Pizzeria In Forno. If you haven’t yet, a trip to Pizzeria In Forno is your opportunity to have a lovely meal before leaving the city. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,049 customers.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Pula and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in Croatia is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.