Opatija is a magnificent resort town in northwestern Croatia, located at the foot of Mount Učka. This small but sophisticated city is full of charm, with magnificent architecture from the Austro-Hungarian period, picturesque landscapes, and beautiful pebble beaches. Here is a proposal for a rich and interesting three-day tour of Opatija:
Day 1: Exploring the City
Morning:
- Breakfast: Start your day with coffee and traditional pastries at one of the cozy cafes in the city center, such as Café Strauss.
- Lungomare Walk: Take a stroll along the famous 12-kilometer seaside promenade, Lungomare. It stretches along the coast and offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
Day:
- Villa Angiolina and Angiolina Park: Visit the first villa of the resort – Villa Angiolina, built in 1844. The surrounding park is famous for its variety of plants from all over the world.
- Juraj Šporer Art Pavilion: Enjoy exhibitions of contemporary art.
Evening:
- Dinner: Head to restaurants like Bevanda or Sveti Jakov for dinner, serving local and international cuisine.
- Casino and Nightlife: Visit one of Opatija's casinos or simply take a stroll through the night city, enjoying its atmosphere.
Day 2: Around Opatija
Morning:
- Učka: After breakfast, go on a tour to Učka National Park. You will enjoy a hike to the peak of Vojak with stunning views of the Istrian Peninsula and the Adriatic islands.
Day:
- Matonići Dvori: Visit a traditional farm where you can try local dishes like homemade cheeses and wines.
- Mošćenička Draga: Visit this beautiful fishing village with unique culture and traditions. Here you can swim at one of the region's best beaches.
Evening:
- Traditional Dinner: At Konoba Kod Ivana, try hearty Croatian dishes like "Peka" (meat and vegetables baked under a bell).
Day 3: Culture and Relaxation
Morning:
- St. Jacob's Church: Visit this beautiful church, which is a symbol of Opatija and is said to be the namesake of the city.
- Croatian Tourism Museum: Learn more about the history of tourism in this region in the original museum.
Day:
- Spa and Wellness: Spend the rest of the day at one of the local SPA centers, such as Thalasso Wellness Center, enjoying treatments based on sea water and local herbs.
- Shopping: Stroll through shops and souvenir shops to buy local products and delicacies.
Evening:
- Final Dinner: On your last evening, try something special, like Plavi Podrum restaurant, known for its cuisine and atmosphere.
- Beach Sunset: End your visit on the beach, enjoying romantic sunset views over the Adriatic.
This itinerary will give you a comprehensive overview of Opatija and allow you to fully enjoy this wonderful corner of Croatia.
