Rijeka Travel Guide: Kvarner, Croatia
Rijeka is the largest city on the Kvarner Bay and one of Croatia's most important ports. Unlike the seaside resorts around it, Rijeka is a lively city with everyday life, students, markets and culture – and at the same time the gateway to the islands of Krk, Cres, Lošinj and Rab.
Korzo, City Tower and Old Town
The heart of the city is the Korzo, a wide pedestrian zone with shops and cafés. Right in the middle stands the City Tower with its big clock, and its gate leads you into the Old Town. Here you'll discover churches, squares and remains from Roman times. The large market hall by the harbor is a must: in the morning you'll find fresh fish, fruit, vegetables and cheese from the region.
Trsat Castle and the View over the Bay
High above the city stands Trsat Castle with the pilgrimage church of Our Lady of Trsat. If you feel like it, you can climb up the long historic staircase with more than 500 steps. At the top, you'll be rewarded with a sweeping view over Rijeka, the bay and the island of Krk.
Culture, Museums and Carnival
Rijeka was European Capital of Culture in 2020 and offers museums, theaters, concerts and a lively art scene. Its industrial history is fascinating: the torpedo was developed in Rijeka in the 19th century. Every winter, the city celebrates Croatia's biggest carnival, with a huge parade and masks from all over the region.
Beaches in the City
You can go for a swim in Rijeka, too: to the west of the city lie the beaches of Kantrida, and to the east the popular area around Pećine with rock slabs and small pebble coves. Ideal for cooling off after a stroll through the city.
Day Trips from Rijeka
From Rijeka you can quickly reach Opatija, Crikvenica and the Krk Bridge. Inland, trips to Učka Nature Park and the green region of Gorski kotar are well worth it. Catamarans connect the city with several Kvarner islands.
Below you'll find all the sights, restaurants, beaches and tips for Rijeka – sorted by category and on the map.