Top Sights

In addition to the beautiful town with its splendid villas, one should definitely explore the Church and Park of St. James. The Villa Angiolina, a magnificent 19th-century mansion, tells the story of Opatija. The small harbor of Portić invites visitors to capture a photo of the Girl with the Seagull, which is the most famous statue in Opatija among its many impressive monuments. An absolute must is the Lungomare, a 12-kilometer seaside promenade that stretches along the coast and offers breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea.

Culture & Events

Opatija, often referred to as “The Imperial City”, is not only known for its historic landmarks but also for its vibrant cultural life and diverse events. The annual Opatija Festival attracts artists and visitors from all over the world, offering numerous concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions. Another highlight is RetrOpatija, which brings nostalgic charm with vintage cars, retro fashion, and music from past decades. Jazz enthusiasts are in for a treat at the annual Liburnia Jazz Festival, one of the most renowned jazz festivals in Croatia. Another unique highlight is the Balinjarda, a traditional soapbox race, as well as the colorful Opatija Carnival.

Culinary Delights

Opatija is a popular holiday destination for food lovers. The city boasts the highest number of top-class restaurants per capita in Croatia and offers an impressive culinary diversity. The Imperial City still preserves many traditional cafés and patisseries reminiscent of bygone times and entices visitors with first-class restaurants and authentic taverns serving traditional cuisine — from fresh seafood sourced from the surrounding area to hearty dishes originating in the villages of the hinterland. Among these, the famous Kvarner scampi stand out with their delicate texture and unique flavor. These delicacies are perfectly complemented by exquisite wines and high-quality olive oil.