Why travel to Opatija Riviera and what to see?

This riviera represents a true oasis of beauty, luxury and entertainment on the Adriatic coast.

The Opatija Riviera is well known to every tourist who has ever set foot on the Adriatic coast. Even if they haven't visited Opatija, they have likely heard something about this beautiful city, a major tourist attraction for centuries.

Opatija has hosted many famous personalities, as well as members of royal families. Throughout the centuries, Opatija has been especially popular among the aristocracy, due to the numerous balls held on the terraces of hotels, where they could showcase their wealth and power. The beautiful terraces and stunning dresses worn by the lovely ladies attracted people to Opatija repeatedly, making their summers unforgettable.

Discover our most beautiful coves and islands. Among them are over 30 top hidden beaches, waiting to be discovered, and beautiful coves accessible only by boat. Wonderful pebble beaches, nestled between rocks, Mediterranean vegetation, and azure-blue sea, will immediately impress you. Here, you can enjoy peace and quiet, along with crystal-clear waters.

The natural beauty of this riviera is enriched by yet another detail, stunning architecture. The hotels and villas built there are important, as they are all adorned with breathtaking gardens with eternal beauty. Opatija and its riviera are not only known as a tourist destination but also as an exclusive spa center, visited throughout the year, thanks to its mild climate.

The architecture of the Opatija Riviera is a unique blend of styles, from Art Nouveau villas to extravagant hotels, giving this region a special visual identity. With its elegant terraces, spacious gardens, and luxurious interiors, places on the Opatija Riviera exude luxury and elegance that takes your breath away. Every corner reflects the rich history and culture that have shaped this beautiful destination.

This region has also become synonymous with wellness and spa tourism. Tourists come throughout the year to relax and rejuvenate in luxurious spa centers. A key element of this region as a wellness and spa destination is its mild Mediterranean climate. You will have a wide range of wellness and spa facilities available, which you can find in hotels and villas throughout the Riviera.

Opatija is an essential destination for travelers seeking luxury, culture and relaxation. One of the most significant attributes of this city is its history as a favorite destination for aristocracy and high society. Its reputation as a spa and fashion center attracted the wealthiest and most prestigious guests, who enjoyed the benefits of the mild Mediterranean climate and exclusive amenities.

The city is surrounded by incredible natural beauty. It is located below Mount Učka, a favorite destination for hikers and excursionists. Positioned at the crossroads between the Istrian region and the coast, it strikes a perfect balance between these two cultures.

If you visit Opatija, you will discover a large number of attractions, well-preserved beaches and as you stroll through the streets of this city, you will be amazed by villas dating back to the Habsburg era and buildings of impressive architecture. Opatija is rightfully called the queen of Croatian tourism. As early as 1884, the first hotel on the eastern coast of the Adriatic was opened in Opatija – Hotel Kvarner. Right in front of this hotel, along the seashore, stood the terrace known as "the terrace of the most elegant café in the world." Within the Hotel Kvarner complex today is the Crystal Hall, built in 1913. This hall is famous for hosting balls and the grandest events in Opatija, among the most famous being the Dora festival.

Opatija is also known as the "City of Parks" precisely because of its highly developed park architecture, which pays homage to the natural heritage and use of ambient resources. Some of the most famous parks in this city are Angiolina Park, Margarita Park, and the essential American Gardens. The origin of Angiolina Park is linked to the construction of the villa of the same name. In this park, you will find almost 150 plant species, among which camellias are the most famous. Margarita Park is conceived as an intimate corner, contemplative, with a network of paths and stairs. The American Gardens contain a wide range of plants characteristic of the Mediterranean climate, such as olives, lavender, rosemary, and oleanders, but also exotic plants rarely seen in this part of the world. You can find palms, cacti, bamboo and various tropical flowers that add an exotic touch to the gardens.

The Lungomare promenade, a seaside walkway, represents one of the most recognizable and beautiful coastal paths in the Mediterranean. Lungomare, with its views of the sea and landscapes, provides a unique opportunity for relaxation and recreation. You can stroll from Volosko to Lovran along this promenade, which is as long as 12 kilometers.

If you want to get to know the Opatija Riviera better, along with the queen of Croatian tourism, Opatija, visit Ičići, Lovran, Medveja, and Mošćenička Draga. You will surely be enchanted by the untouched nature, breathtaking architecture, and cultural heritage of these settlements.

Ičići, a renowned nautical center, boasts 300 sea berths and 40 dry berths. In Ičići, you will have a complete nautical service within the ACI Marina. This marina is the holder of the Blue Flag, symbolizing ecological recognition of their operations. The large beach in the center of Ičići also holds this flag. Ičići Beach is equipped with all the necessary amenities and will allow you to enjoy the sun all day long. However, what truly makes Ičići special is its authentic atmosphere and hospitable residents. Visitors feel welcomed and relaxed, easily blending into the laid-back rhythm of Mediterranean life. Ičići is a stunning place that offers everything visitors could wish for a perfect vacation: beautiful beaches, diverse activities, rich cultural heritage, and hospitable people.

Equally charming is Lovran. This town represents one of the richest cultural destinations, abundant with history, natural beauty, and authentic Mediterranean charm. Lovran has deep roots in the past, which can be seen in its rich cultural heritage. The town dates back to ancient times and has been under various authorities, including Roman, Venetian, and Austro-Hungarian rule. In just a few decades, almost 180 impressive villas were built along the Lovran coastline. They are marked by luxury and wealth. The old town with its narrow streets and picturesque squares provides insight into the rich history of this place, while numerous churches, villas, and museums bear witness to the turbulent times that shaped this town. On the other hand, beautiful beaches, hidden coves and crystal-clear sea make Lovran an ideal place for relaxation and enjoyment.

Once a fishing village, now a popular tourist destination - Medveja. The beaches in Medveja are mostly pebble or rocky, surrounded by pine forests. Visitors to Medveja can enjoy various outdoor activities, including swimming, diving, sailing, hiking and cycling. In Medveja, you will also find the Medveja - Lovranska Draga hiking trail. This 3.3-kilometer trail connects historical, natural, and artistic elements of the entire area. Mošćenička Draga, like Medveja, is chosen as a destination by guests seeking relaxation and peaceful rest.

The rich gastronomic offer of the Opatija Riviera focuses on fresh seafood, fish, olive oil, truffles, and other local specialties. Restaurants in the region offer top-notch gastronomic experiences, while numerous taverns and fisherman's taverns provide an authentic taste of Istrian and coastal cuisine.

Opatija, as the center of this region, has always been a favorite destination for European aristocracy and wealthy travelers, as well as today's modern tourists. Lovran, Medveja, Ičići, and Mošćenička Draga, settlements surrounding Opatija, also have their special features and beauties. The Opatija Riviera is one of the most famous and attractive tourist destinations in Croatia. This picturesque area is abundant with rich cultural heritage, beautiful beaches, luxurious hotels, and various opportunities for recreation and relaxation. This riviera represents a true oasis of beauty, luxury and entertainment on the Adriatic coast.

Rent a boat from Marea Charter and explore the Opatija Riviera!