Holiday in Opatija

About Opatija

Opatija is the elegant seaside resort of the Kvarner Bay and has a glorious history as a summer retreat for the Austro-Hungarian nobility. The magnificent villas and hotels from the Belle Époque line the coast, giving the place an elegance reminiscent of the French Riviera. Since 1844, when Villa Angiolina opened its doors to the first illustrious guests, Opatija has been synonymous with upscale tourism on the Adriatic. The twelve-kilometer-long Lungomare promenade, laid out along the rocky coast from Volosko to Lovran, is the heart of Opatija. Under palm trees and oleanders, one strolls past historic hotels, elegant parks, and the city's landmark — the sculpture Girl with the Seagull on the rocks above the sea. The Angiolina Park, with its exotic plants from around the world, including Japanese camellias and bamboo groves, bears witness to the botanical ambitions of the Austro-Hungarian era. The culinary offerings range from top-notch fish restaurants in Volosko — the gourmet insider tip of Kvarner Bay — to traditional konobas serving lamb roast and homemade pasta. In the nearby Učka Mountains, hiking trails entice with panoramic views over the entire Kvarner Bay to Istria. Opatija is attractive year-round: in spring, the camellias bloom; in summer, the crystal-clear sea beckons; in autumn, the mild temperatures; and in winter, the charm of the empty promenades. The city is only 90 minutes from Ljubljana and two hours from Zagreb.