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

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

Rijeka is an outstanding hub for culture, comfort, and exploration. The city offers travelers plenty of experiences to look forward to, including the magnificent City Clock Tower. Around 1,339 visitors have rated this fascinating top-tier point of interest and travel destination an average of 4.5 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 Rijeka 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 Konoba Tarsa. This restaurant offers a menu of comforting meals and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,076 customers.

Barbacoa serves great food and is a favorite among hungry travelers and locals. This popular restaurant in Rijeka has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,487 reviews.

Konoba Fiume is another one of the city’s best restaurants. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 933 customers, Konoba Fiume is sure to provide you with an unforgettable dining experience.

If you’re curious about what Rijeka 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 Book caffe Dnevni boravak, our top recommendation in the city. Customers have rated this bar an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 1,024 reviews.

The Beertija Klub offers a variety of refreshing drinks and is one of the best places to relax in Rijeka. This well-known city bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,087 customers.

Locals like unwinding at Teatro Lounge Bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 738 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 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 2 nights will be conveniently located close to several attractions, like the famous Trsat Castle. This incredible castle has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,516 travelers.

Make the most of your slow-paced travel adventure in Croatia by seeing another popular site in Rijeka, the wonderful Church of Mary of God of Trsat. This church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,516 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Maritime and History Museum of the Croatian Coast. This museum has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,043 visitors.

Another stop you might want to add to your self-drive itinerary is the remarkable Islamic Center of Rijeka. This mosque is sought after by many travelers from around the world. The popular attraction has received 4.7 out of 5 stars from 952 visitors.

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 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, Boonker. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,735 customers.

You may also try the variety of dishes served at Bistro Mornar, which is an excellent choice if you want a nice place to eat near your accommodation. Bistro Mornar is rated 4.4 stars out of 5 by 3,156 customers.

You can also eat at the highly recommended Konoba Ribica. This amazing restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,872 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 River. This vibrant bar is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,197 customers.

If you want to try a different bar, check out the popular Pet Jedan Tapas Bar. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 898 customers, this bar is a great place to try some excellent liquor.

Another recommendation you shouldn’t miss is Pub "Bačva". Drink up and relax in this amazing bar that serves different kinds of alcoholic beverages and cocktail drinks. Pub "Bačva" has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 781 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 Zagreb, 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 Zagreb. In Zagreb, 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 Opatija is an excellent idea.

A popular restaurant we recommend you try is mekPer's, one of the best restaurants in Opatija. With a lovely menu and an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,654 customers, you can’t go wrong with choosing mekPer's.

Locals also recommend Pri zvoncu as one of the top restaurants in the area. So if you’re feeling hungry, don’t forget to check out the menu at Pri zvoncu as well. This local-favorite restaurant is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,325 customers.

If you feel like having something else, you could also book a table at Restaurant Zelen Dvor. Restaurant Zelen Dvor is another of the most popular places to eat in Opatija. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,571 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 Vintage Industrial Bar. Vintage Industrial Bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,500 customers and is one of the best bars you can visit tonight.

Another lively bar worth checking out tonight is Hub Cooltura Pub. This is the perfect place to enjoy a couple of drinks if you want to continue your celebrations. The average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,249 customers gives you an idea of what to expect from this bar.

Alternatively, head to Mr. Fogg. This popular bar will bring up your mood and give you a good ending to your night. Mr. Fogg is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,233 customers.

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

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Croatia, you’ll explore the area around Zagreb, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Zagreb will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Croatia.

One of the city’s best travel destinations is a fascinating lake, the stunning Bundek. Around 15,180 visitors rated their experience at this well-known attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Travelers also come to the city to visit the spectacular Zagreb Fountains, a popular park and another top-rated attraction in Zagreb.

You might discover a new thing or two about the city at the incredible Croatian Association of Fine Artists. This local attraction is an amazing art gallery that has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,961 visitors.

A stop at the outstanding Park Maksimir will make your slow-paced and relaxed road trip in Croatia more memorable. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 19,174 visitors, a stop at this local attraction during your leisurely self-drive through Croatia is a chance to gain another experience worth sharing.

If you’re feeling a little eager to wander around the city a bit more, we recommend you visit the fantastic Zagreb Zoo. Zagreb Zoo is a well-loved zoo by locals and tourists alike, and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 23,886 visitors.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Croatia by joining a traveler-approved tour in Zagreb. Tours offer an opportunity to get to know more about Zagreb and the unique culture of the country.

There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Zagreb that will make your self-drive tour in Croatia more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Zagreb to find the best options for you!

After satisfying your wanderlust, you’ll head to your accommodation in the city of Zagreb for some rest and relaxation. Immerse yourself in the local food culture of Croatia by eating at one of the best restaurants in Zagreb.

With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,778 customers, the dining experience Bota Šare Zagreb restaurant - oyster & sushi bar offers is the perfect complement to your relaxed road trip in Croatia.

HERITAGE - Croatian Street Food & Shop is another pleasant place to eat in Zagreb. This restaurant offers a menu of delectable dishes and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,369 customers.

If you’re looking for a restaurant that locals enjoy, check out Roots - juice & cocktail bar and try their flavorful menu. This local favorite has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 800 customers.

When you’re in the mood for an after-dinner drink, visit one of the best bars in the city. At Swanky Monkey Garden, you can relax or make friends with locals and fellow travelers. This bar in Zagreb is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,237 customers.

You can also unwind and enjoy a few drinks at Dubravkin put, another well-known bar in Zagreb. Customers have rated this city bar an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,365 reviews.

Another top-rated bar with a unique vibe is Cheese Bar. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,097 customers, Cheese Bar is one of the best places to end a laid-back tour of Zagreb.

Get cozy and have fun because this is what your relaxed road trip in Croatia is all about!

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Croatia, you'll explore the best attractions in Zagreb 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 Zagreb, 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 Ribnjak Park. This incredible park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,263 travelers.

Make the most of your slow-paced travel adventure in Croatia by seeing another popular site in Zagreb, the wonderful Zagreb Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,263 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Ban Josip Jelačić Statue. This best-rated sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,613 visitors.

Another stop you might want to add to your self-drive itinerary is the remarkable Botanical Garden of the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb. This park is sought after by many travelers from around the world. The popular attraction has received 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,528 visitors.

If you want to discover more, consider stopping by the famous Technical Museum. This amazing site is a wonderful museum with more than 6,180 wanderlust-filled travelers rating it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

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 Zagreb 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 Zagreb. One of our top recommendations includes a selection of delicious meals on its menu, Restoran Vegehop. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 760 customers.

You may also try the variety of dishes served at McDonald's Vrbani, which is an excellent choice if you want a nice place to eat near your accommodation. McDonald's Vrbani is rated 4.4 stars out of 5 by 7,850 customers.

You can also eat at the highly recommended Mali Medo. This amazing restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,203 food lovers.

After finishing your meal, it’s time to experience the amazing nightlife in Zagreb 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 Valhalla beer bar. This vibrant bar is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,010 customers.

If you want to try a different bar, check out the popular Roots - juice & cocktail bar. Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars by 800 customers, this bar is a great place to try some excellent liquor.

Another recommendation you shouldn’t miss is BarBar XXL. Drink up and relax in this amazing bar that serves different kinds of alcoholic beverages and cocktail drinks. BarBar XXL has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 924 bar goers.

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

On day 6 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit two remarkable areas in Croatia. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Croatia.

Your first destination is the beautiful city of Zagreb. As the day progresses, you’ll continue your in-depth tour of the country in the city of Pisarovina. You’ll spend 1 night in Rijeka.

Take the opportunity to relax while admiring what the city has to offer. While on a relaxed road trip, one of the best places to explore in the city is the remarkable Stone Gate. This city gate and popular sightseeing spot has an average rating of 4.7 over 5 stars from 5,601 visitors.

Another top sight worth checking out is the amazing Museum of Broken Relationships. This museum and go-to attraction has an average rating of 4.4 over 5 stars from 6,957 travelers.

If you’re looking for another unforgettable attraction to explore during your laid-back trip, the wonderful Lotrščak Tower is the perfect place for you. This fortified tower and travel location has received a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,480 reviewers.

While in the city, you also have the opportunity to visit the outstanding Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb. This notable place of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to 8,945 reviews.

While exploring the city of Zagreb, we highly recommend you join one of its top-rated tours. Joining a tour will allow you to better understand the local culture in Croatia, meet new people, and create memorable experiences, while you comfortably enjoy.

After a fun experience in Zagreb, buckle up and enjoy a relaxing drive to your next stop, the incredible city of Pisarovina. This is your opportunity to create more unforgettable memories in Croatia and discover the wonderful Pisarovina.

While in Pisarovina, take a break at one of its best attractions, the great Ecopark Krašograd. This top-tier point of interest and popular site has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,578 reviews.

This travel spotis a go-to place in Pisarovina.

As this day of your laid-back exploration of the best attractions in Croatia comes to a close, continue your relaxed road trip adventure in Rijeka. Drive leisurely, enjoy the views, and listen to some good music. In Rijeka, you’ll choose from the best hotels and places to stay in the city and restore your energy.

After a long day of traveling and sightseeing, take it easy and have a wonderful dinner at one of the best restaurants in Rijeka. Check out Na Sušaku, a top choice in Croatia due to its excellent meals and service.

Another Rijeka restaurant to try is a local favorite, King’s Caffe food pub.

If you’re looking for another must-visit option, Submarine Burger Rijeka is a perfect choice. This popular restaurant in Rijeka has a score of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,653 people.

After dinner, many travelers enjoy hanging out and unwinding at some of the top bars in Rijeka. The popular Milord Pub has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 748 customers and is the perfect place to fully appreciate your unhurried and relaxed road trip vacation in Croatia.

You could also relax with a drink at another popular bar like Phanas Pub Rijeka est.2001. This hang-out has an average rating of 4.4 from 753 individuals.

If you want to visit another place, the locals of Rijeka recommend "Metropolis" Caffe Bar & Night Bar. Due to its local reputation, this bar boasts an average rating of 4.3 over 5 stars from 675 individuals.

Celebrate another day of your relaxing road trip through Croatia with a toast at a top-rated bar in Rijeka!

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 Rijeka.

Depending on when you need to leave, you might be able to fit in some sightseeing or shopping. Embrace the beauty of Rijeka 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.

Petar Kružić Stairway is an extraordinary attraction that is perfect for your last day in Rijeka. This top sight is a popular top-tier point of interest, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 799 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 Rijeka or just grab something light to keep you going.

Check out the menu at Lovorka Restaurant. Dining at Lovorka Restaurant is one of the best food experiences you can have in Rijeka. This popular restaurant is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,501 customers.

Another top recommendation in Rijeka is Konoba Ive. If you go to Konoba Ive, you can expect delicious food, a nice ambiance, and great service. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,329 customers.

Alternatively, you could also go to a place like Maslina. If you haven’t yet, a trip to Maslina is your opportunity to have a lovely meal before leaving the city. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,219 customers.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Rijeka 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.