Opatija, nestled on the Adriatic coast of the enchanting Istria peninsula, boasts a unique setting surrounded by rocky mountains and pine forests. It enjoys a milder climate compared to other parts of Istria, allowing for the cultivation of lush gardens filled with exotic flora.
The town's beaches are rocky, often featuring concrete platforms leading into the sea, a common sight along the Croatian coast. Opatija's blend of mountain and sea air makes it a sought-after health resort, with numerous thalassotherapy centers and spa facilities offering rejuvenation and relaxation.
Founded as a resort destination in 1844, Opatija witnessed the construction of its first guest villas during that time. It soon became a magnet for European celebrities, drawing luminaries from Wilhelm II to Isadora Duncan to its Adriatic shores. Opatija's allure is immortalized in Nabokov's "Springtime in Fialta," where the town served as inspiration for the novel's setting.
Guide to Opatija
Opatija virtual tour
Photos of Opatija
Tours to Opatija
An inexperienced traveler may know little about a vacation in Opatija. In fact, it is one of the most luxurious resorts in the northern Adriatic region. Last-minute tours to this destination have been incredibly popular since the early 20th century, mainly due to the excellent microclimate that prevails here throughout the year.
Compared to nearby areas, Opatija is always slightly warmer, allowing palm trees, bamboo, and magnolias to thrive within the city. There is no single best time to visit, as the holiday season here lasts all year round.
Compared to similar European resorts, the cost of a trip to this Croatian destination is significantly lower, while the level of service and range of amenities remain just as high.
The high demand for last-minute trips is also driven by the town’s renowned hospitality. Locals are friendly and welcoming, always willing to help, and do not raise prices even during peak tourist influxes.
Affordable tours to Croatia’s coastal retreat allow visitors not only to enjoy the natural beauty and warm climate but also to improve their health. The first wellness sanatorium was built here as early as 1844.
The highest prices are set from June to August when the high season is in full swing.
Interesting places in Opatija
Opatija's attractions are intrinsically linked to its illustrious past guests. Opatija tours will regale you with tales of Isadora Duncan, Chekhov, Nabokov, and other renowned personalities who graced its shores. If you're inclined towards hiking in Opatija, you can opt for a scenic twelve-kilometer seaside promenade, providing access to any of the town's beaches.
For families vacationing with children, Opatija holds the allure of rejuvenation, as the sea and mountain air offer health benefits for kids. Additionally, the town's restaurants offer delectable Croatian cuisine to savor.
Travel budget
Flight ticket prices
Opatija does not have its own airport. The closest one is Pula Airport, located about 100 km from the resort. Another convenient option is Rijeka Airport, which is closer but offers fewer international flights. You can fly directly to Pula from London, Paris, Barcelona, Kraków, and other European cities. The main airlines serving this route include Ryanair, easyJet, Lufthansa, Croatia Airlines, and Vueling.
The average ticket price depends on the season and booking time. A flight from London to Pula costs from €100, from Paris – from €120, and from Kraków – from €90. During the high season, fares may increase by 20–30%. The best way to save money is to book tickets in advance and monitor airline promotions.
The best hotels in Opatija
Hotels in Opatija are numerous, as are apartments, guesthouses and other accommodation. Five-star hotels in Opatija, such as Hotel Mozart, are located on the coast. A room for two people here costs 100-200 EUR per night. A lot of hotels and cozy apartments with four stars, such as Apartment Staraj. Prices here vary from 30 to 200 EUR per night. In three-star hotels and villas, such as Sepic Apartments, you can find a room for two from 28 to 160 EUR per night.
The cost of vacation
The budget of a trip to Opatija should be calculated based on the cost of airfare to Pula, cost of accommodation in hotels or apartments in Opatija and meals during the vacation. Do not forget to take into account the visit to the famous villas and other sightseeing places of the city, without it the trip to Opatija will lose some of its charm. And you should not refuse sea trips on yachts or boats, especially if you came to Opatija with children. Souvenirs are also an important part of the budget, because in Opatija you can buy traditional Croatian goods and bring them as a souvenir of your trip.
| The budget for a trip to Opatija | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight | from 440 EUR | Accommodation | from 28 EUR per day |
| Average check in a restaurant | from 10 EUR (75 HRK) | Transport fare | from 8 HRK (1 EUR) |
| Excursion | from 20 EUR | ||
| Total: about 900 EUR for a week for two people | |||
Airport in Opatija
Opatija does not have its own airport. The nearest airport is Pula Airport, lying 80 km from the resort. The airport is small, with about 400,000 passengers per year. But the level of service in it is considered one of the best in the world.
Transfer to Opatija from the airport
To get to Opatija from Pula Airport, you can take the railroad from the airport to the city itself. You can also book a transfer directly from the airport. The cost of the transfer is approximately 90 EUR.
.Public transportation in Opatija
Public transport in Opatija is represented by buses, and they were launched recently, in 2009. The fare starts from 8 HRK. It is better to buy tickets at kiosks, it will be cheaper than from the driver.
Car rental in Opatija
It is possible to rent a car in Opatija both in large international companies and in small local offices. The rental price starts from about 270 HRK per day. If you wish, you can rent a car directly from Pula airport.
Safety in Opatija
Safety in Opatija is maintained at a very high level. Here you can let your children go out on their own, explore the city at night and generally be confident in your own safety.
