12-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rijeka to Pula, Senj, Zadar, Šibenik, Lika-Senj County, and Zagreb

Day 2 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Rijeka. You’ll stay in Rijeka for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Whether you decide to explore Rijeka on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Let Trsat Castle set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this enchanting castle before continuing your journey. Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat is your next stop. This locally appreciated church is one of the best-rated sights in Rijeka.

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 Petar Kružić Stairway. This historic monument is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Maritime And History Museum Of The Croatian Coast.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Croatia. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

For an unforgettable shopping experience, visit Korzo, the top shopping destination in Rijeka. Browse local boutique shops and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Korzo has to offer, including cafes, attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Rijeka. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Discover the culinary delights of Rijeka by securing a reservation at Nebo by Deni Srdoč. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern and creative cuisine. Alternatively, Zelena Dolina beckons with its unique menu offerings.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Teatro Lounge Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Book Caffe Dnevni Boravak is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Pub "bačva" also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!

On day 3 of your road trip in Croatia, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Gedići and Rovinj are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Pula, where you will stay for 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Rijeka, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Gedići. Your travel time is around 16 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Baredine Cave. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the cave before you continue to your next stop.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Gedići and set your GPS to Rovinj. 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 43 min. Upon reaching Rovinj, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Church Of St. Euphemia, an underrated church known for its culturally significant features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Park Forest Zlatni Rt, an underrated park.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Pula. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Savor the flavors at Pizzeria Samantha, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Fresh Sandwiches and Salads beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bistro Romantic Alley. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Pula tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Beach Bar Laplaya stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, The Shipyard Pub offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Zeppelin - Beach & Lounge Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Croatia!

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Pula. You’ll stay in Pula for 1 night.

Aquarium Pula leaves a lasting impression. This aquarium is one of the most popular places to visit in Pula. Next, head to Temple Of Augustus, a notable monument, known for its culturally significant 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 Forum Square. This romantic public square is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Pula Citadel and Pula Arena Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Croatia. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Pula is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Pula.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Fine fast food Piantina, a top-rated dining spot in Pula. If you're in the mood for something new, try Street Food Two, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restoran "Stari grad 02". Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Pula.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Ulysses. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Caffe Bar "dvojka", the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bolero provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Croatia includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Vela Učka, Opatija, and Crikvenica. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Senj, where you'll spend 1 night.

Set your GPS to Vela Učka and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 1 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Vela Učka beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready for some sights, head to Nature Park Učka, a worthwhile nature reserve in Vela Učka. Explore its majestic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Opatija’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Vela Učka behind. This drive usually takes around 27 min. Opatija welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Slatina, an increasingly popular beach that draws visitors from near and far.

Crikvenica’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Opatija behind. This drive usually takes around 44 min. Crikvenica welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Aquarium Crikvenica, a curiosity-inducing aquarium that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Senj. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

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 Senj, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Pizzeria King, an iconic dining spot in Senj. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bistro i Caffe bar "Kod tri mornara", a popular restaurant in Senj. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurant Uskok, a hidden gem nestled in Senj. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Pirassa Caffe Gelateria, known for its lively atmosphere. Cafe Bar Julijus is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Erna offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Croatia!

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Zadar has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Zadar.

Experience Market Zadar, a curiosity-inducing market in the city. Then, head to Narodni Trg and soak in the ambiance of this enchanting public square.

There are many interesting places to see in Zadar, and when you are ready for more, go to Church Of St. Donatus. This is one of the city’s most frequently visited heritage-rich spots of interest. After exploring the church, visit the increasingly popular Roman Forum. Not far away, you'll also find Sea Organ. This art installation is a culturally significant highlight in Zadar.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Croatia. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Pet Bunara Dine & Wine is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant 2Ribara. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Zadar tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Pirate Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Bizarre offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Backstage Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Šibenik and Split. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lika-Senj County, where will spend 1 night.

Šibenik Cathedral makes a great addition to your morning plans. This intriguing church is a visually striking place to see in Šibenik.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Šibenik.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Šibenik, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Split. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 15 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Marjan, a well-known park in Split. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Golden Gate. This frequently visited historical landmark is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Diocletian's Palace is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most symbolic palace in the region.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lika-Senj County. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Lika-Senj County. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Highlanders pub, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kavana Milinković offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lika-Senj County.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Caffe Bar Fortuna after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Caffe Bar Amadeus for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Caffe Bar Bevanda is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Croatia.

On day 10 of your road trip in Croatia, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Zagreb are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zagreb, where you will stay for 1 night.

Zagreb’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Lika-Senj County behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 10 min. Zagreb welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Our first attraction recommendation in Zagreb is Park Maksimir, a notable park that draws attention for its eye-catching features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Zagreb Zoo, a photogenic zoo that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb, an intriguing performing arts theater that offers a unique experience.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Zagreb. Zagreb offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Zagreb's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Zagreb by booking a table at Tač. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of traditional cuisine. For another dining option, venture to Noel, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Beštija, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing contemporary menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Tesla New Generation, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Caffe Bar Destino. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Booze And Blues, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Your itinerary for day 11 of your road trip in Croatia includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Zagreb. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Rijeka, where you'll spend 1 night.

No visit to Zagreb is complete without Ban Josip Jelačić Statue. This well-known monument is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Stone Gate, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Zagreb, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Zagreb Cathedral. This captivating church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Bundek, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Rijeka. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restoran Morčić, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bowling Center Rijeka? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Seafood restaurant Feral as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Rijeka.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Pet Jedan Tapas Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, "metropolis" Caffe Bar & Night Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Caffe Bar Kosi Toranj also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Croatia!