9-Day Croatia Road Trip from Pula traveling east to Senj, Zadar, Karlovac County, Zagreb, and Rijeka

Your road trip adventure in Croatia begins as soon as you reach Pula and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Pula 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.

Pula is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Pula. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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

Plan ahead and secure a table at Veritas Food&Wine, an acclaimed dining establishment in Pula. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 1,550 satisfied guests.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of Pizzeria Jupiter while experiencing the best of Pula. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 7,601 discerning diners.

Indulge in the rich flavors of El Pulari, an elegant culinary destination in Pula. A menu crafted to perfection guarantees a dining experience that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Its stellar reputation is reflected in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,101 previous guests.

After dinner, visit Rock Bar Mimoza and experience the nightlife in the city of Pula. This bar is one of the best places to cap off the night and is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 613 customers.

You can also hang out at The Shipyard Pub. This bar serves a variety of snacks and drinks and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,622 customers.

Locals recommend Hook & Cook Pula, so definitely check it out too. Hook & Cook Pula is a place to enjoy friendly chats with locals and fellow travelers and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,587 bar-goers.

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

On day 2 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 Pula and Senj. In the evening, you’ll end up in Senj, where you will stay for 1 night.

Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination.

When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Senj. Senj offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Don't forget to book a table at Restaurant Uskok, a well-known eatery in Senj. This popular restaurant and its sumptuous cuisine have won the hearts of food lovers. Its commitment to a delicious menu is evident in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,133 satisfied guests.

Ensure you visit Tavern Kod Veska while exploring Senj. This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu, distinguished with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 822 discerning guests.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant-pizzeria Tropicana, a popular restaurant in Senj. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 1,087 discerning diners.

After dinner, visit Pirassa Caffe Gelateria for a drink or two. This bar serves plenty of food and drink options and is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 120 customers.

You can also enjoy your night at Cafe Bar Julijus. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 109 customers, it's safe to say that Cafe Bar Julijus promises an unforgettable bar experience.

Alternatively, locals recommend Restoran "Krešimir". This bar, rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 146 customers, is a great place to meet new friends.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Croatia. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Senj, Krasno, Smiljan, Perušić, and Zadar, 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 Zadar. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Nehaj Fortress. This much-appreciated fortress is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,558 reviews.

After soaking in Senj’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Perušić. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 57 min. When you arrive in Perušić, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Grabovača. This protected area is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 1,204 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Smiljan. This car ride takes around 21 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Nikola Tesla Memorial Center. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,955 reviews.

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

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.

Reserve your spot at Restoran 4 Kantuna, a popular local restaurant in Zadar. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 3,300 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience Pet Bunara Dine & Wine during your stay in Zadar. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,856 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of Trattoria Mediterraneo, a popular local gem in Zadar. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 762 satisfied guests.

After your meal, consider going for a drink to celebrate this wonderful night in Croatia. One of the best bars in the city is Deja Brew Pub Zadar. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 735 customers.

To gain one of the best bar experiences in Zadar, we recommend the cocktails at BackStage Bar. This bar has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 508 customers and is an excellent place to make local friends.

Another of the best spots to experience the nightlife scene in Zadar is Harbor CookHouse & Club. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,272 customers.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Zadar and Karlovac County. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Karlovac County. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Kick off the day at Market Zadar, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,657 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Narodni trg. Narodni trg is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,636 reviews.

Church of St. Donatus is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This church building is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,708 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Roman Forum. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,709 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Sea organ, a famous tide organ in Zadar. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 57,178 travelers.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Zadar, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Karlovac County. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 27 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Karlovac County, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Karlovac County.

Book a table at Restoran Mandić, a famous dining establishment in Karlovac County. This culinary hotspot and its appetizing cuisine have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation for food excellence is reflected in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,119 satisfied diners.

Another dining place you should visit in Karlovac County is Pizzeria Tiffany Karlovac, which boasts a variety of tasteful dishes that cater to different palates. It has earned a commendable 4.6 out of 5 stars, demonstrating the positive feedback from 2,786 satisfied customers.

Locals and visitors alike recommend Karlovac County’s Castle Bistro for the delightful dining experience it gives. The establishment has garnered positive reviews for its tasty dishes, holding an admirable score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,552 satisfied diners.

An excellent example is Hollywood cafe, which has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 699 customers.

Another of the best bars you should consider going to is Papa's Bar. This bar offers a selection of great meals and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,487 customers.

Locals also enjoy GP, and you might too. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,112 customers, an after-dinner drink at GP is the perfect way to end this day.

Say good night to Karlovac County and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Croatia!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Croatia, where you’ll be making 2 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Zagreb and Zagreb. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zagreb. Zagreb will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Karlovac County, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Zagreb may take around 40 min. Upon your arrival in Zagreb, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Zagreb. Zagreb offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dining experience at HERITAGE - Croatian Street Food & Shop while you’re in Zagreb. Famous for its lovely menu and mouthwatering dishes, it has captivated around 1,369 diners, earning it an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another favorite dining locale in Zagreb is Dubravkin put. Have a satisfying meal from the menu that has charmed its way to the hearts of around 1,365 happy customers, who gave it an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

While in Zagreb, enjoy Cheese Bar’s appetizing dishes. This dining establishment has earned a positive reputation and a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to the endorsements and reviews of around 1,097 satisfied guests.

To get a drink at one of the best bars in the city, go to Mr. Fogg. This bar has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,233 customers.

If you’d like to continue your evening somewhere else, we recommend heading to Swanky Monkey Garden. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,237 customers.

A third bar where you could have a great time tonight is Valhalla beer bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,010 customers.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Croatia.

Day 6 of your road trip across Croatia promises a magnificent time exploring Zagreb. You have 1 night left in Zagreb. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Zagreb.

Have a delightful culinary experience when you dine at Roots - juice & cocktail bar. Favored by many foreign travelers and locals, this restaurant in Zagreb boasts a carefully curated and enticing menu. Its delectable dishes have earned it an impressive rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from around 800 visitors.

Another dining spot you shouldn’t miss while in Zagreb is Restoran Vegehop. It has garnered a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 760 diners thanks to its impeccable menu options and flavors.

Experience a celebration of flavors when you dine in at Mali Medo, in Zagreb. Its delightful menu and flavorful dishes have earned it a stellar rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,203 satisfied customers.

Booze and Blues is one of the best bars in Zagreb and the perfect place for a celebratory drink. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 848 customers.

You may also want to check out A’e Craft Bar, offering great drinks and a fantastic atmosphere. A’e Craft Bar is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 705 customers.

A third bar where you could have a great time tonight is Program Bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 637 customers.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Croatia.

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Zagreb and Rijeka. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Rijeka, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Lotrščak Tower. Previous visitors have rated this fortified tower an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,513 reviews.

Museum of Broken Relationships is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 7,032 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Stone Gate. This city gate is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,640 reviews.

St. Mark's Church is another outstanding experience in Zagreb. Around 4,070 travelers have rated this church building an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Rijeka. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 54 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

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.

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

Elevate your stay in Rijeka by dining at this Bib Gourmand awarded restaurant. Renowned for its prestigious 1 Michelin-star rating and a variety of mouthwatering dishes, Nebo by Deni Srdoč consistently impresses foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional modern and creative cuisine.

Make a reservation at Konoba Fiume while indulging in the charm of Rijeka. This restaurant offers a delicious menu reflected with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, cherished by 933 discerning connoisseurs.

Indulge in the flavors of Boonker, a treasured establishment in Rijeka. Its diverse menu promises to tantalize your palate and elevate your dining experience. Known for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 3,735 satisfied guests.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in Rijeka, Book caffe Dnevni boravak. This bar is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,024 customers.

Travelers and locals alike also recommend The Beertija Klub. This bar has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,087 customers.

Teatro Lounge Bar is another popular place for a drink, considered one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 738 customers.

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

On day 8 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 Rijeka and Pula. In the evening, you’ll end up in Pula, where you will stay for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to City Clock Tower. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,349 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Petar Kružić Stairway. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 806 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Church of Mary of God of Trsat. This church has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,505 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Trsat Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,592 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Islamic Center of Rijeka. This mosque is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 969 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Rijeka and set your GPS to Pula. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 22 min. Upon reaching Pula, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Pula, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Pula. 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 experiencing Bistro Alighieri, a renowned dining spot in Pula. This restaurant's rich flavors have left a lasting impression on diners. Its dedication to culinary perfection is evident in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,688 satisfied guests.

Make a reservation at Grill restaurant "Odisej" while immersing yourself in Pula. This distinguished restaurant offers imaginative dishes, with a remarkable rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,787 guests.

Discover the culinary treasures of Taj Tavern, a beloved dining establishment within Pula. Its exquisite menu promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to culinary bliss. Renowned for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,079 satisfied customers.

Old City Bar Pula is a great bar to relax after a busy day. About 1,368 customers have given this spot an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, making it one of the most popular bars in the area.

Another bar in Pula we recommend is Cabahia, an excellent place to meet new friends. This bar offers customers plenty of snack and drink options and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 664 customers.

Bass bar Pula is also one of the best places to go to unwind and chat with locals. Over 349 bar-goers have rated it an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

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

Day 9 of your road trip in Croatia is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Pula before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As you approach the end of your journey in Croatia, take a moment for some retail therapy in Pula’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family, or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Croatia, a variety of items are waiting for you.

Before you conclude your road trip in Croatia, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Pula.

You’ll then say farewell to Pula. 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!