Getting to the Kvarner Bay: by car, plane, bus or train
The Kvarner Bay is the holiday region in Croatia that is quickest to reach from Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Whether you travel by car, plane, bus or train, here are the most important ways to get to the sea.
By car
Most visitors arrive in their own car. From southern Germany, the route usually leads through Austria and Slovenia to Rijeka. From Munich, the drive takes roughly six to seven hours, depending on traffic. You need a vignette for Austria and Slovenia, while in Croatia you pay the motorway toll at toll booths. Since Croatia joined the Schengen Area in 2023, there are normally no checks at the border with Slovenia, and you pay in euros.
By plane
Rijeka Airport is located on the island of Krk near Omišalj, just a few minutes from the Krk Bridge. Flights mainly operate in the summer season. Other airports within reach are Pula, Zagreb, Ljubljana and Trieste. From there, you can continue by rental car or bus.
By bus and train
Long-distance buses run from many cities to Rijeka, and some go directly to Krk and the coastal towns. From Rijeka, regional buses connect the islands and towns around the bay. By train, you can reach Rijeka via Ljubljana or Zagreb, but the connections are slower than going by car.
On to the islands
You can reach Krk without a ferry, via the toll-free Krk Bridge. To get to Cres, Lošinj and Rab, you continue by ferry or catamaran. You can find all connections in our island-hopping guide.
Travel tips
Saturdays are the busiest day on the roads to Croatia, as many holiday apartments change guests then. If you travel during the week or very early in the morning, you will usually arrive more relaxed. In strong Bora winds, the Krk Bridge can be closed to caravans, motorhomes and motorcycles.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to drive from Munich to the Kvarner Bay?
Depending on traffic and destination, about six to seven hours to Rijeka or Krk.
Which airport is the closest?
Rijeka Airport on the island of Krk. Flights mainly operate in summer, and the alternatives are Pula, Zagreb, Ljubljana and Trieste.
Do I need a vignette in Croatia?
No. In Croatia, you pay the motorway toll at toll booths. However, you do need vignettes for driving through Austria and Slovenia.
Are there border checks?
Croatia has been part of the Schengen Area since 2023, so there are normally no checks at the border with Slovenia. Even so, you should always carry an ID with you.