One-Week Croatia Road Trip from Pula to Rijeka, Zagreb, and Roč

Photo of  city of Pula, ancient Roman arena, historic amphitheater and harbor with ships from drone, aerial view.
Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Summary

Duration
8 days & 7 nights
Available
Jan. - Dec.
Hotel
7 nights included
Car rental
8 days included
Flights
Optional
Travel app
All vouchers, itinerary, & map

Description

Have the adventure of a lifetime with this 8-day road trip through Croatia.

This incredible self-drive vacation package will take you through the best destinations in Croatia. With this perfectly planned travel package, you will stay 2 nights in Pula, 2 nights in Rijeka, 2 nights in Zagreb, and 1 night in Buzet, experiencing the ultimate road trip in Croatia. Your road trip will enable you to discover the country's most popular attractions and restaurants in Pula, Rijeka, Zagreb, Buzet, and Poreč. We'll help you experience the best 8 days in Croatia you can imagine so you can leave happy and inspired.

Upon arriving in Pula, you'll collect the rental vehicle of your choice. From there, you'll be off to discover some of the most popular attractions in Croatia, including the stunning Pula Arena and Trsat Castle.

You'll have an extensive selection of accommodations to choose from throughout your road trip. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, catering to all budgets. Whether you're in the mood for luxurious five-star hotels or cozy, budget-friendly accommodations, we've got you covered.

Your road trip will bring you close to the best attractions and most incredible sights in Croatia. From the magnificent Park Maksimir to the breathtaking Ban Josip Jelačić Statue and Zagreb Cathedral, your journey will take you on a thrilling adventure through some of the most iconic travel destinations in the country. Your discovery doesn't end there. As you hit the open road and drive through Pula, Rijeka, Zagreb, Buzet, and Poreč, you'll also have plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Croatia. Whether you're exploring enchanting small towns, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there's always something new and exciting to experience in Croatia.

Add tours and tickets to each day of your trip to make the most of your time in Croatia. You'll have the opportunity to choose from the best tours and activities that your travel destinations have to offer, meaning you'll never have a boring moment on your road trip through Croatia.

Your travel plan itinerary also gives you multiple opportunities to look for souvenirs to memorialize your road trip in Croatia.

You'll return home having experienced the very best of everything Croatia has to offer. Each twist and turn of the journey adds a unique charm to your travel tales.

You can customize each day of your road trip vacation itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking. Enjoy the benefits of exploring all these great attractions at your own speed.

Your travel plan includes everything you need to experience the best of Croatia. You'll be booked at the best hotels for 7 nights, with plenty of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll provide you with the best car rental for 7 days during your self-drive road trip, including CDW insurance.

You'll have access to 24/7 travel support, a personal travel agent, and a step-by-step guide via our flexible mobile app. You can choose and add your flight preferences as needed. Make your vacation in Croatia extra special by adding tours and tickets to each day of your itinerary.

The best services in Croatia fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your self-drive road trip in Croatia today!

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Included

Hotel, 7 nights
Rental car, 8 days
CDW Insurance
Step-by-step guide
Personal travel agent
24/7 travel support

Destinations

Photo of aerial view to the town of Porec in Istria, Croatia on Adriatic coast.Grad Poreč
Aerial drone photo of famous european city of Pula and arena of roman time. Location Istria county, Croatia, Europe.Pula / 2 nights
Photo of aerial view of town of Rovinj historic peninsula , famous tourist destination in Istria region of Croatia.Grad Rovinj
Zagreb - city in CroatiaZagreb / 2 nights
Grad Rijeka - city in CroatiaPrimorje-Gorski Kotar County / 2 nights
Roč / 1 night

Map

Attractions

Photo of summer scenic view of ancient ruins Roman Amphitheatre in Pula, Istria croatian region.Pula Arena
Photo of Sign of Zagreb zoo park, Croatia.Zagreb Zoo
Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
Maksimir Park, Maksimir, Zagreb, City of Zagreb, CroatiaPark Maksimir
Photo of cathedral and Blessed Virgin Mary monument in Zagreb. Croatia.Zagreb Cathedral
Photo of Bundek lake and city of Zagreb aerial autumn view, capital of Croatia.Bundek
Photo of aerial view of Trsat fortress in Rijeka, Croatia.Trsat Castle
Photo of the ancient Temple of Augustus, Pula, Croatia.Temple of Augustus
Photo of Aquarium Pula, Grad Pula, Istria County, Croatia.Aquarium Pula
Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb, Mimara, Gradska četvrt Donji grad, Zagreb, City of Zagreb, CroatiaCroatian National Theatre in Zagreb
Crkva sv. Eufemija, Grad Rovinj, Istria County, CroatiaChurch of Saint Euphemia
Photo of Stalagmites and stalactites inside the cave of Baradine near the city of Porec in Croatia.Baredine Cave
Botanical Garden of the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Mimara, Gradska četvrt Donji grad, Zagreb, City of Zagreb, CroatiaBotanical Garden of the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb
Park forest Zlatni Rt, Grad Rovinj, Istria County, CroatiaPark forest Zlatni Rt
Museum of Broken RelationshipsMuseum of Broken Relationships
Forum Square, Grad Pula, Istria County, CroatiaForum Square
Fazana CROATIA, Općina Fažana, Istria County, CroatiaFazana CROATIA
Photo of Zagreb stone gate, one of the most famous symbols of the city, Croatia.Stone Gate
Park Prirode Učka, Grad Opatija, Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, CroatiaPark Prirode Učka
Photo of Nehaj fortres in Senj on green hill, Primorje region of Croatia.Nehaj Fortress
Fortress Kaštel, Grad Pula, Istria County, CroatiaFortress Kaštel / Castello
Euphrasian BasilicaEuphrasian Basilica
Maiden with the Seagull, Grad Opatija, Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, CroatiaMaiden with the Seagull
Crkva Majke Božje Trsatske, Mjesni odbor Grad Trsat, Grad Rijeka, Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, CroatiaChurch of Mary of God of Trsat
Photo of Sea canyon with high sheer cliffs descending to turquoise water, place for jump in Verudela Canyon at Verudela Peninsula, south from Pula, Croatia.Verudela Canyon
Northern Velebit National Park, Grad Senj, Lika-Senj County, CroatiaNorthern Velebit National Park
City Clock Tower, Mjesni odbor Luka, Grad Rijeka, Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, CroatiaCity Clock Tower
Pathway in Šijana woods, Croatia.Šijana/Siana Forest
Plaža Prva Draga, Grad Senj, Lika-Senj County, CroatiaPlaža Prva Draga

Flights
Yes
No

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy

Travel details

Flights

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy
Travel dates

Include flights?

Yes
No

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Car
Yes
No

Car

Small car

Small car

Category
small car
Transmission
People
Large bags
Medium car

Medium car

Category
Medium
Transmission
People
Large bags
Premium car

Premium car

Category
premium car
Transmission
People
Large bags

Hotels

Personalize your itinerary

Day 1 – Pula - arrival day

Day 1

Day 1 – Pula - arrival day

  • Pula - Arrival day
  • More
  • Verudela Canyon
  • More

Your road trip adventure in Croatia begins as soon as you reach the incredible city of Pula. You’ll stay in Pula for 2 nights, experiencing all the best things to do and see in the city.

Pula has many popular destinations you can explore. You could visit attractions like the incredible Verudela Canyon. This attraction is a best-rated sightseeing destination and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,620 visitors.

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. Your stay promises to be a delightful continuation of your exploration, providing comfort and tranquility to recharge for the adventures that lie ahead.

When you’re ready for dinner, we recommend you try one of the best restaurants in the city of Pula, Veritas Food&Wine. The restaurant is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,550 customers.

Another of the best restaurants in the city of Pula is Pizzeria Jupiter. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,601 customers.

Pula also has several great bars that will fit all travel budgets. One of the best bars in the city of Pula is Rock Bar Mimoza. This bar has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 613 customers.

Another of the best bars in the city of Pula is The Shipyard Pub. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,622 customers.

Locals also enjoy Zeppelin - Beach & lounge bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,777 customers.

Enjoy toasting the start of your 8-day vacation in Croatia!

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Experiences

Day 2 – Pula and Rijeka

Day 2

Day 2 – Pula and Rijeka

  • Pula
  • Primorje-Gorski Kotar County
  • More

Drive 119 km, 1 hour 59 min

  • Fortress Kaštel / Castello
  • Pula Arena
  • Forum Square
  • Temple of Augustus
  • Aquarium Pula
  • More

As you rise to greet the dawn on day 2 of your epic road trip in Croatia, you'll awaken to the bustling city of Pula. Today, you'll hit the road once again, setting off on a journey towards the stunning city of Rijeka. You’ll stay in Rijeka for 2 nights. But before you begin your drive, we recommend taking the time to explore some of Pula’s must-see attractions and local hotspots.

If you’re curious to see more of Pula, start your day with a visit to the amazing Pula Citadel. This much-appreciated top-tier point of interest and attraction is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,536 visitors.

You could also stop at another of the best local travel destinations in the area, the fascinating Pula Arena. This roman amphitheatre and spectacular attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 58,562 visitors.

We also recommend you spend some time at the popular Forum Square to make the most of your road trip across Croatia. The spectacular Forum Square is a best-rated sightseeing destination that has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,726 visitors.

The lovely Temple of Augustus is yet another attraction you could pay a visit. Around 9,904 visitors have left this archaeological site average ratings of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

After soaking up all the sights and sounds that Pula has to offer, you'll be ready to hit the open road and continue your unforgettable road trip towards the city of Rijeka. Rijeka offers plenty of options for top-rated hotels and other places to stay that fit all travel budgets.

After you’ve settled into your accommodation, we recommend a dinner at the popular Konoba Tarsa. This popular restaurant is one of the locals’ most recommended restaurants in the city, with ratings of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,076 reviews.

The remarkable Barbacoa is another top restaurant in Rijeka we recommend. This restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,487 customers.

If you would rather go somewhere else, the famous Konoba Fiume is also an excellent choice. This well-loved restaurant is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 933 customers.

After your meal, we recommend you drink at one of the best bars in Rijeka, the fantastic The Beertija Klub. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,087 customers.

Celebrate another amazing vacation day filled with adventure in Croatia!

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Experiences

Day 3 – Lika-Senj County and Rijeka

Day 3

Day 3 – Lika-Senj County and Rijeka

  • Primorje-Gorski Kotar County
  • More

Drive 202 km, 3 hours 58 min

  • Plaža Prva Draga
  • Nehaj Fortress
  • Northern Velebit National Park
  • More

You still have 1 night left in Rijeka.

One of the best travel destinations you can make time for at the start of this day is Plaža Prva Draga. This incredible attraction is a must-see tourist destination and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,077 visitors.

Nehaj Fortress is another popular attraction you'll visit. This spectacular attraction is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,527 visitors.

Another of the best travel destinations you can visit is Northern Velebit National Park. This amazing attraction is a park and is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 1,504 visitors.

To do something one-of-a-kind today, you can join a popular tour. Check out all the fun and eye-opening experiences you can try out in Croatia to make your travel experience in the country more memorable.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your accommodation in the city of Rijeka.

We recommend eating at one of the best restaurants in the city of Rijeka, like Boonker. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,735 customers.

Bistro Mornar is another of the best restaurant options in the city of Rijeka. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,156 customers.

After dinner, visit one of the best bars in the city of Rijeka, River. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,197 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar that locals recommend, like Pet Jedan Tapas Bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 898 customers.

Pub "Bačva" is another of the best bars in the city of Rijeka. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 781 customers.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your road trip adventure through Croatia!

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Experiences

Day 4 – Rijeka and Zagreb

Day 4

Day 4 – Rijeka and Zagreb

  • Primorje-Gorski Kotar County
  • Zagreb
  • More

Drive 230 km, 3 hours 43 min

  • City Clock Tower
  • Church of Mary of God of Trsat
  • Trsat Castle
  • Park Prirode Učka
  • Maiden with the Seagull
  • More

Rise and shine on day 4 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you'll wake up in Rijeka and embark on a scenic drive to Zagreb, where you'll stay at one of the best hotels for 2 nights. Seize the opportunity to explore spectacular attractions in Rijeka before you reach your end destination for the day.

It’s hard not to feel excited about visiting attractions in a destination as lovely as Rijeka. When you’re eager to explore the city and nearby areas, we recommend visiting some local favorites, such as the wonderful City Clock Tower. This attraction is a best-rated sightseeing destination that has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,339 visitors.

You could also stop at the incredible Church of Mary of God of Trsat. This attraction, a beloved church, has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,485 visitors.

If you have time, another site you could explore in Rijeka is the stunning Trsat Castle. This castle and travel destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,516 visitors.

One of the most popular attractions you can visit is the remarkable City Clock Tower. This attraction is a best-rated sightseeing destination that has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,339 visitors.

If you want to explore more, visit the incredible Church of Mary of God of Trsat. This church and attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,485 reviews.

Another site you could visit today is the top-rated Trsat Castle. This castle and travel destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,516 visitors.

The lovely Nature Park Učka is yet another attraction you could pay a visit. Around 4,438 visitors have left this park an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Lastly, if you still got energy, the wonderful Maiden with the Seagull is also a worthwhile attraction you can visit in Primorje-Gorski Kotar County. This point of interest is a sculpture rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,947 reviews.

We recommend you end the day with a dinner at a popular restaurant near your accommodation, like HERITAGE - Croatian Street Food & Shop. This restaurant offers various delicious and comforting meals and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,369 customers.

After dinner, visit Vintage Industrial Bar to enjoy a couple of drinks and relax. This bar is one of the best in Zagreb, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,500 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like Hub Cooltura Pub. This bar is a great spot to meet new friends and celebrate your vacation. Hub Cooltura Pub has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,249 customers.

Mr. Fogg is another bar locals often recommend. This bar offers a great variety of snacks and drinks and is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,233 customers.

End your day by raising your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure in Croatia, and look forward to more great days to come!

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Experiences

Day 5 – Zagreb

Day 5

Day 5 – Zagreb

  • Zagreb
  • More

Drive 24 km, 1 hour 13 min

  • Park Maksimir
  • Zagreb Zoo
  • Botanical Garden of the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb
  • Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb
  • Bundek
  • More

You still have 1 night left in Zagreb.

One of the best travel destinations you can make time for at the start of this day is Park Maksimir. This incredible attraction is a park and has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 19,174 visitors.

Botanical Garden of the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb is another popular attraction you'll visit. This spectacular attraction is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,528 visitors.

Another of the best travel destinations you can visit is Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb. This amazing attraction is a top-tier point of interest and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,945 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit the outstanding Bundek. This lake and place of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,180 visitors.

To do something one-of-a-kind today, you can join a popular tour. Check out all the fun and eye-opening experiences you can try out in Croatia to make your travel experience in the country more memorable.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your accommodation in the city of Zagreb.

We recommend eating at one of the best restaurants in the city of Zagreb, like Roots - juice & cocktail bar. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 800 customers.

Restoran Vegehop is another of the best restaurant options in the city of Zagreb. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 760 customers.

Locals enjoy Vinodol, one of the most popular restaurants in the city of Zagreb. The restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,410 customers.

After dinner, visit one of the best bars in the city of Zagreb, Swanky Monkey Garden. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,237 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar that locals recommend, like Dubravkin put. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,365 customers.

Cheese Bar is another of the best bars in the city of Zagreb. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,097 customers.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your road trip adventure through Croatia!

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Experiences

Day 6 – Zagreb and Roč

Day 6

Day 6 – Zagreb and Roč

  • Zagreb
  • Roč
  • More

Drive 203 km, 2 hours 42 min

  • Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
  • Museum of Broken Relationships
  • Stone Gate
  • Zagreb Cathedral
  • More

Day 6 of your road trip through Croatia gives you the opportunity to experience two places in one day. You will stay in Roč for 1 night. Have a hearty breakfast and get excited for a wonderful day ahead!

One of the best places to visit today in Zagreb is the amazing Ban Josip Jelačić Statue. This attraction is a best-rated sightseeing destination that is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,613 visitors.

You could also stop at the incredible museum, Museum of Broken Relationships. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,957 visitors, this attraction is one of the top sights in the area.

Another unforgettable travel destination in the Zagreb is the outstanding Stone Gate. This popular city gate and travel destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,601 visitors.

The spectacular Zagreb Cathedral is another popular attraction you can visit today. This fascinating catholic cathedral and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 16,381 visitors.

There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your road trip in Croatia. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before it's too late.

At the end of the day, you will drive to the city of Roč, where you will access the best hotels and places to stay.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure through Croatia!

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Experiences

Day 7 – Porec, Istria County, and Pula

Day 7

Day 7 – Porec, Istria County, and Pula

  • Grad Rovinj
  • Pula
  • Grad Poreč
  • More

Drive 172 km, 2 hours 59 min

  • Euphrasian Basilica
  • Baredine Cave
  • Church of Saint Euphemia
  • Park forest Zlatni Rt
  • Fazana CROATIA
  • More

Get ready to experience some of the most famous attractions in the area!

One of the best places to visit in the city of Porec is the amazing Euphrasian Basilica. This attraction is a cathedral and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,713 visitors.

Joining a top-rated tour in Porec is another excellent way to spend your new day in Croatia. The best tours in this travel destination will take you on an exploration to some of Croatia’s most well-known attractions and best-kept secrets.

With this tour, you’ll set out on a journey to Croatia’s most interesting sights. As you go along this remarkable tour, you’ll also have the unique opportunity to catch a glimpse of Croatia’s scenic spots.

You could then travel to the amazing Euphrasian Basilica for some sightseeing. This popular attraction is a cathedral and has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,713 visitors.

Another unforgettable travel destination is the outstanding Baredine Cave. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,659 visitors, this show cave deserves a spot on travelers' bucket lists.

We also recommend a visit to the popular Church of Saint Euphemia. This attraction, a stunning church, has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,222 travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to the fantastic Park forest Zlatni Rt. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 6,231 travelers, this is one attraction many highly recommend.

You’ll also have your choice of the best hotels and places to stay in the city of Pula.

After a long day of driving and exploring, we recommend you try Konoba Boccaporta, one of the best restaurants in the city of Pula. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,823 customers.

After dinner, visit Hook & Cook Pula, which is considered one of the best bars in the city of Pula. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,587 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like Old City Bar Pula. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,368 customers.

Alternatively, Cabahia is one of the best bars that locals recommend in the city of Pula. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 664 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure through Croatia!

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Experiences

Day 8 – Pula - departure day

Day 8

Day 8 – Pula - departure day

  • Pula - Departure day
  • More
  • Šijana/Siana Forest
  • More

Day 8 of your road trip in Croatia is your departure day. This is your chance to catch one last glimpse of Pula before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. When you have time to explore the area before you make your way home, we recommend visiting some of the following attractions.

Šijana/Siana Forest is an extraordinary attraction you could visit to enjoy your last day in Pula. This park and popular site of interest has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,182 visitors.

Take a stroll along the main shopping streets of Pula and find some souvenirs to remind you of your road trip in Croatia.

You could then enjoy your last meal in the city of Pula at Grill bar Campo before you travel home. This popular restaurant is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,879 customers.

Alternatively, we also recommend Bistro Alighieri for your last chance at a meal in the city of Pula. The Bistro Alighieri restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,688 customers.

You’ll then say farewell to Pula. We wish you a pleasant journey home, with many wonderful memories of your unforgettable vacation in Croatia!

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Experiences

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