Visit Opatija, one of Croatia’s most famous destinations, often called the pearl of the Adriatic, and enjoy the breathtaking views over the entire Kvarner Bay while sightseeing in Mošćenice and Trsat.

Opatija – the pearl of the Adriatic

Opatija’s rich history and picturesque surroundings should not be missed. So when in Opatija, take a break from the beach and go sightseeing. Renaissance, Venetian, Gothic, ornate Secession, playful Baroque, Classicism, Alpine Baroque… Buildings of completely different styles have been erected in this popular tourist resort throughout history. Discover for yourself why Opatija has been one of the most popular destinations for sightseeing in Croatia since the 19th century when the Habsburgs turned it into one of Europe’s most popular destinations where nobles and aristocrats enjoyed in moments of peace and quiet far from their courts and daily politics. It is impossible to list all the names of the famous guests who visited Opatija. Numerous monuments have enriched the town’s culture. The tales of romantic anguish, intrigue, scheming, political games and artists seeking inspiration hide in every corner of the Opatija Riviera, and now you also have an opportunity to become a part of these tales.

Mošćenice & Trsat – enjoy the spectacular views over the entire Kvarner Bay

On the hill two kilometers above Mošćenička Draga lies Mošćenice at 173 meters above the sea level. This town is situated in the place of the historical settlement of the Illyrian tribe Liburnia, after which the entire region was named. Due to the breathtaking views over the entire Kvarner Bay, Mošćenice is a favorite excursion place for numerous tourists, as well as a starting point for hikers and mountaineers on their way up the hiking trails to the old, abandoned villages (995m) on Učka Mountain.

Whilst in Rijeka, Trsat is a must-see place – a part of the city situated on a hill above Rijeka that offers a spectacular view of the entire Kvarner. Mentioned for the first time in 799, Trsat is an ideal place for a walk, for having a coffee and sightseeing. Particularly the Trsat Castle which dates back to the prehistoric times when it was just a watchtower. Its present appearance is the merit of its last owner, Count Laval Nugent, who bought it in the first half of the 19th century, renovating it into a family mausoleum. Nearby there is the Shrine of Our Lady of Trsat, one of the oldest in Croatia, that in June 2003 was visited by the Pope John Paul II. In his honour, the monument of The Holy Father – The Pilgrim of Trsat was built in the shrine. The Trsat Shrine, according to legend, was founded in 1291 when a small Nazareth house of the Holy Family appeared here, brought by angels… The shrine and the Franciscan Monastery are also connected with Rijeka’s city centre with Petar Kružić’s Steps. There are a total of 561 steps of an enjoyable walk from the city centre to Trsat. Be sure to visit the Trsat Park, made in the period between the two World Wars, known for the indigenous plants and for respecting the natural rocky landscape, as well as the cemetery. And the last but not the least, the gastronomic offer of Trsat is excellent, so be sure to conclude your walk and sightseeing tour by some delicious food.