Tourism in Opatija

Croatia

Hotels in Opatija

OPATIJA – THE QUEEN OF THE ADRIATIC

Opatija, this elegant tourist destination, lies at the centre of the Riviera with the longest tradition of tourism in Croatia. Built mainly at the turn of the 20th century, Opatija has remained in complete harmony with nature right up until the present day. Well-maintained public gardens, the illuminated 12-km-long coastal promenade known as the "Lungomare", well-kept beaches and fountains provide a stunning backdrop for the villas and hotels that cater comfortably for over 7,000 guests. The magnificent villas and hotels are only part of Opatija's attraction which, like the sirens's chant, is hard to resist. Their classical beauty has easily weathered the ravages of time. The contrasts of sea and mountains, green parks and blue ocean, old buildings and modern comforts, noisy entertainment venues and quiet destinations for excursions all combine to make Opatija and its surroundings a very attractive tourist resort at any time of the year.

Opatija is a thriving and vibrant town throughout the year and the list of cultural and entertainment events go on and on. After the New Year celebrations, a whole string of interesting events follow, of which we will mention just a few and each guest will supplement this list of events according to his interests. February is traditionally marked by the Carnival, which transforms Opatija along with the 12 km distant city of Rijeka, into a huge international carnival stage. In this famous tourist destination with a long tradition and a modern tourist offer, March is marked by Wellness. Namely, this month in Opatija’s calendar is marked as the “Month of Wellness” during which guests are introduced to the luxurious Wellness offer that provides relaxation, recreation, care of one’s appearance and, thanks to its professional team, also guarantees important health benefits.

From the end of May to the end of September, Summer in Opatija events take place, which include numerous film shows, concerts, operas and folklore… held in the beautiful surroundings of the Open-air theatre and Arts Pavilion. During the first half of July there is an event Opatija – Imperial city during which the streets, terraces and coffee houses are filled with period costumes, music and dancing recalling the times when Opatija was a fashionable venue for the aristocracy of the Austro-Hungarian monarchy.

The year traditionally ends with Winter in Opatija, a rich program with many events such as the Chocolate Festival, Ice magic with Christmas market where all visitors can enjoy ice skating near the sea and season holidays events.

Along with these traditional events, there are numerous other shows and festivals which attract guests during all seasons of the year.

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This historic statue on the Adriatic coast is a symbol of touristic town Opatija in Croatia. Copyright Sinisa Botas

Adriatic Sea scenic view from quay of Opatija, a tourist town on Croatian coast. Copyright Evgeniya Moroz

Opatija European Best Destinations - Copyright Opatija Tourist Board

romantic evening at promenade in Opatija, Istria, Kvarner, Croatia Copyright lukaszimilena

Seaside in Opatija Copyright Ziga Cetrtic

Adriatic Sea scenic view. Opatija town, popular tourist destination of Croatian coast. Copyright Evgeniya Moroz

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Lungomare walk

While walking along the Lungomare, the famous 12-km long coastal promenade, one can admire many magnificent villas – prime examples of Belle Époque architecture, discover monuments commemorating people important in the local history or statues that have become symbolic of Opatija (such as the Girl with the Seagull).

Villa and Park Angiolina

Villa Angiolina is the building that certainly marked the beginning of the tourist epoch in the history of Opatija. It was constructed in 1844 and fully renovated in 2000. Tourist can view the richly decorated hall with its painted ceiling, where numerous social events, concerts and romantic weddings are held.

Villa Angiolina Opatija Copyright Volker Koditz — ©Volker Koditz

The cradle of wellness

At the time when Opatija was emerging as a tourist resort, it was primarily a winter spa for the elite. Today, this tradition is continued with a wide range of health and wellness services offered by high-class wellness centres in many of Opatija's hotels, and also in the Thalassotherapia.

wellness Opatija Copyright Hotel Adriatic — ©Hotel Adriatic

Pure gastronomic enjoyment

Opatija's ideal position at the juncture between sea and mainland is reflected in its gastronomy. Creative menus mix Mediterranean and continental cuisine, which cannot be imagined without perfectly fresh local organic food. No wonder, then, that Opatija boasts some of the best restaurants on the Croatian Adriatic.

Riviera Opatija

From royal Opatija to the medieval fortified towns or sheperd's hamlets on Učka there is only a half hour's drive on scenic roads. Each of these places around Opatija has a special and unique attraction. The quaint charm of Volosko and Mošćenička Draga, the urban frenzy of Rijeka, the absolute calm and dazzlingly white pebble beaches and green forest clearings – miss just one of these and you'll never complete the picture.