Things to do in Opatija

Opatija is a popular summer and winter resort, with average temperatures of 10 °C in winter, and 25 °C in summer. The whole sea coast to the north and south of Opatija is rocky and picturesque, and contains several smaller winter resorts.

Opatija is placed under mountain Ucka, inside of Kvarner bay. The perfect spot between the mountains and sea gave Opatija fundament in becoming one of the leading tourist towns in Croatia. During summer it is very hard to find an empty accommodation unit.

Built mainly at the turn of the 20th century, Opatija has remained in complete harmony with nature right up until the present day.

What to see in Opatja

St Jacob’s Church

St Jacob’s Church from which Opatija started to grow. It was built on two times, in year 1506 and 1793. Witness to that is inscription above the entrance. St Jacob is also Opatija’s protector.

Villa Angiolina

Villa Angiolina is placed by the sea and surrounded by luxuriant greenery, villa Angiolina was first “real” tourist accommodation in Opatija. It was built by Iginio Sccarpa, tradesman and patrician in year 1844. Villa was named after Iginio’s wife.

Madonna

Madonna is sculpture built on cape in memory of two young people who lost their lives in sea storm. The lone statue stood against years of waves and wind. After the sea damaged the sculpture in 1951, it was removed and restored to be permanently stored in 1996. A gold-plated replica of the Madonna was put up next to the parish church of St Jacob.

Maiden with the Seagull

Madonna was replaced with statue of a Maiden with the seagull; today it is one of most known symbols of Opatija.

Lungomare

Lungomare (The Seaside Promenade) is famous 11km long promenade and one of main symbols of Opatija and Opatija Riviera.

The Tower of Istria

The tower of Istria, mount Ucka, is a nature park with hiking paths and a beautiful view over the Kvarner bay.

Jazz Boat

If you are a lover of jazz, then Opatija is the place to visit every year on the first weekend in July. Since 2003, at this time of year the town plays host to the Liburnia Jazz Festival, with a programme tailored to meet the expectations of even the most demanding audiences. The distinctive feature of this festival is the Jazz Boat, where you can enjoy your favourite music on a trip along the coast of the Riviera on warm summer nights.

Hotels in Opatija

Most of the hotels in Opatija were built towards the end of the 19th century or at the beginning of the 20th. Being architecturally well preserved, they also offer all the comforts that modern guests expect. I had to name two hotels.

Hotel Kvarner which was the first hotel in Opatija and the Adriatic, opened in 1884. Its famous Crystal hall and beautiful terrace host numerous glamorous events throughout the year, while its 19th century architecture is the reason that today it is one of the most popular and photographed hotels in Opatija.

The second is Hotel Imperial opened in 1885 as Hotel Stephanie. Its unique secession architecture will leave you breathless, while its Golden hall is popular for hosting different ceremonies and weddings. Austro-Hungarian emperor Franz Joseph I and his German counterpart Wilhelm II were among the numerous noble guests that stayed at the hotel back in the 19th century. These two hotels are also suggestions for sightseeing in Opatija. So, if you are in Opatija, definitely go around and see why these hotels are so important for Opatija.

What to do in Opatija

Trekking

By Nature Park Ucka and the Cicarija you can walk by different paths, depending on the desire and ability of the participants.

Trike Flying

You can fly in Buzet and Ucka from the hills on a tandem aircraft with a pilot instructor. Flight time is about 10 minutes and is suitable for larger groups.

Speleology

In the caves of the karst areas of northeastern and central Istria, you can feel the caving adventure.

Paintball

Outdoor Center Raspadalica offers exciting war game shooting with colored balls, also offers several scenarios to play: winning the flag, conquer the fortress, in the case of larger groups organizes tournaments.

Horse Riding

Horseback riding with a guide along the paths of Učka. Take advantage of your time in Istria maximum. Go on horseback along the paths of Učka with a guide.

Parasailing

Most activities take place in Ucka and Buzestina, maximum 1 hour drive from Grand Hotel Adriatic. On the basis of these outdoor activities are formed a tailor made programs according to the demands and wishes of guests. Flights are to a length of rope 200, 300, 400 metara only in the summer months. The minimum number of participants are 4 people.

Gastronomy

Opatija restaurants are following town’s reputation; with top-service and high quality meals. Of course, mostly offered are fish dishes, and in some restaurants you can try food made by recipes from the 19th century.

Cafes and Bars in Opatija

Opatija is famous for its cafes. Many people from Zagreb go to Opatija just for a day to have a coffee at one of its terraces. Take the moment out of your day and enjoy an espresso or cafe latte in one of numerous town’s cafes.

Café Wagner offers homemade chocolate, 64 types of praline, ice cream and cakes. Cafe Wagner is the perfect place where you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast, mid-morning coffee, sophisticated aperitif, deserts, rare ice-cream…

Kavana Continental besides the great cakes, offers more than 50 different ways of coffee making from all around the world and people who love to drink a tea on a daily basis will be able to choose from their great selection of the finest and best quality of tea from all over the globe.

Chocó Bar Kras offers the range of exclusive filled chocolates, original cocktails, chocolate drinks and ice-cream treats is now the best testimony of both the tradition and knowledge of the Kras production based on the superior quality.

Nightlife 

Central event in Opatija through the summer are Fisherman’s nights, traditional fiesta with dancing until dawn. Outside the season main event is well known carnival.

Opatija has always been ‘the place to be seen at’ in Croatia. Opatija became more than ever a favourite place for those who do not search for parties in noisy discotheques but rather wish to drink cocktails in some of the lounge bars. Still, there are places and choices for everyone. You will be able to dance or talk to pleasant music in one of the beach bars, depending on how you feel.