Opatija truly surprised me. Set along the Adriatic coastline, it has a luxurious charm that makes it stand out from other destinations in Croatia. Known as the “Croatian Riviera,” Opatija offers breathtaking architecture, elegant hotels, and a peaceful atmosphere—perfect for a relaxing or indulgent getaway
Why Visit Opatija?
Opatija has a rich history and undeniable elegance. The Austro-Hungarian influence is evident in its grand villas, stunning architecture, and beautifully manicured parks.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation, a romantic escape, or a luxury retreat, Opatija delivers in every way.
What to Do in Opatija
🚶 Walk the Lungomare Promenade
- One of Opatija’s must-do activities! This scenic 12 km coastal path connects Opatija to nearby towns like Lovran.
- Perfect for a romantic sunset walk or a morning stroll along the Adriatic Sea.
🌳 Relax in Opatija’s Parks
- Visit Park Angiolina, one of the most beautiful green spaces in the city.
- Unwind amidst lush greenery and vibrant flower
⛵ Try Local Experiences
- 🚤 Boat Tours to Krk Island: A day trip to explore the nearby island of Krk.
👉 Book a tour here - 🌊 Morning Windsurfing Lessons: A fun way to start your day on the Adriatic.
👉 Book your lesson here - 🛶 Cave Exploration by Kayak: Discover Opatija’s cliffs and caves from the water.
👉 Book your tour here - 🍷 Istrian Wine Tasting: Try some of the best wines of Istria on a guided tour.
👉 Book here
🏝️ Visit Nearby Destinations
- 🌿 Cres Island – A short trip from Opatija, offering quiet bays and untouched nature.
- 💦 Plitvice Lakes National Park – A 2.5-hour drive away, but worth it for the turquoise waterfalls and stunning landscapes.
Where to Eat in Opatija
Opatija is heaven for food lovers, offering the best of Croatian specialities and fresh seafood. As a big food lover, I was seriously impressed by the variety and quality of the food here. The best part? You can enjoy a three-course meal at top restaurants for around €50–€60, which I think is very reasonable for the quality and portions!
A local favorite, well-known for its lamb chops and delicious desserts. If you want to try something traditionally Croatian, go for the beef soup, a Sunday staple in many homes.
One of the most popular restaurants in Opatija, famous for generous portions and freshly baked bread. Their meat platter and pizzas are absolute must-tries!
Pro tip: Book in advance—this places fills up fast!
Opatija has so much to offer when it comes to food, from casual seaside bites to high-end dining, and the prices make it even better!
🏖️ Beaches in Opatija
The sea here is unbelievably clean and a stunning shade of deep blue. While some hotels don’t have direct beach access, here are the best spots:
🏝️ Colosseum Beach
- One of my favorite beach spots!
- Offers private sunbeds for around €20 and amazing food (try the chicken salad!).
- Spotted dolphins near the coast—pure magic!
🎶 Lido Beach Bar
- A livelier option with music and larger sunbeds.
- Great vibe if you want energy and socializing.
How to Get to Opatija
✈️ By Air – The closest airport is Rijeka Airport (RJK), about 40 km away. Other options include Pula Airport (PUY) – 1.5 hours and Zagreb Airport (ZAG) – 2 hours.
🚗 By Car – The best way to reach Opatija. From Zagreb, it’s a 2-hour drive, and from Ljubljana, about 1.5 hours.
🚌 By Bus – Direct buses from Rijeka, Zagreb, Ljubljana, and Trieste run frequently.
⛴️ By Ferry – Seasonal ferries connect Opatija to islands and coastal towns.
🏨 Where to Stay in Opatija:
1️⃣ Luxury Apartments Centre of Opatija
Budget-friendly — £
2️⃣ Heritage Hotel Imperial – Liburnia Opatija
Mid-range — ££
Mid to high-range — £££
4️⃣ Hotel Ambasador – Liburnia
High-end — ££££
Luxury — ££££
6️⃣ Amadria Park Hotel Milenij
Most luxurious — £££££
Best Time to Visit Opatija
Opatija is not a party town—if you’re looking for wild nightlife, this isn’t the place. The crowd here is more mature, making it perfect for a relaxing holiday filled with stunning sea views, amazing food, and long scenic walks. The best time to visit depends on what kind of experience you’re after.
🌸 Spring (April – June) | 15-25°C (59-77°F)
One of the best times to visit! The weather is warm but not too hot, flowers are in full bloom, and the town is peaceful yet lively. A great time to explore without the summer crowds.
☀️ Summer (July – August) | 25-32°C (77-90°F)
Peak season, with sunny days and warm sea temperatures around 25°C (77°F). The atmosphere is lively but still more sophisticated than party-heavy destinations like Split or Hvar. Expect higher prices and book accommodations early.
🍂 Autumn (September – October) | 18-26°C (64-79°F)
A fantastic alternative to summer. The sea is still warm, the crowds have thinned, and the hotel and restaurant prices drop slightly. It’s also a great time for food and wine lovers, with local festivals happening.
❄️ Winter (November – March) | 5-15°C (41-59°F)
Opatija transforms into a winter wonderland, hosting one of Croatia’s best Christmas markets. The town is beautifully decorated with lights, and it’s a great time to relax in spa hotels and wellness retreats.
💡 Best months to visit: May, June, or September – the perfect mix of great weather, fewer crowds, and reasonable prices!
Final Thoughts: Is Opatija Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Opatija offers a unique mix of luxury, natural beauty, and fantastic food. Whether you’re walking the Lungomare, indulging in local cuisine, or island-hopping, this is a place that truly delivers.
If you’re visiting Croatia, don’t skip this Adriatic gem!
Would you visit Opatija? Let me know in the comments!
