Our guide is packed with things to do in Rijeka, Croatia. The 2-day itinerary includes something for everyone, with plenty of time to stop and enjoy the journey.
Getting to Rijeka, Croatia
- By Air
- The easiest way to get to Rijeka from abroad is to fly into Rijeka Airport (RJK) on Krk Island (30 minutes from city center).
- In the summer, there are seasonal international flights. You will find connections via Zagreb, Split, or major European hubs.
- By Train
- Trains from Zagreb take about 3.5–4.5 hours.
- International trains from Ljubljana or Budapest usually require transfers.
- By Car
- Driving from Zagreb is easy. Take the A6 motorway (approx. 2 hours).
- Scenic (but slower) routes available from Italy (Trieste) or Slovenia.
- By Bus
- Frequent and affordable buses from major Croatian cities and neighboring countries take you to Rijeka. Look at FlixBus, Arriva Croatia.
- By Ferry
- You can find seasonal ferries to and from islands like Split, Dubrovnik, or Krk.
Best Time to Visit Rijeka, Croatia
- May to September – Best overall time to visit for warm weather and outdoor activities.
- July & August – Peak summer with festivals, beach days, and lively nightlife (but also more tourists).
- June & September – Great weather, fewer crowds, and ideal for swimming or sightseeing.
- February – Visit for the famous Rijeka Carnival, one of the largest in Europe.
- October to April – Off-season with fewer tourists; cooler weather but good for budget travel and cultural sites.
Hotels in Rijeka, Croatia
- Hotel Bonavia Plava Laguna – 4-star hotel in the city center with spa, gym, and fine dining.
- Hilton Rijeka Costabella Beach Resort & Spa – Luxury seaside resort with private beach and wellness facilities.
- Hotel Jadran – Modern waterfront hotel with balconies overlooking the Adriatic Sea.
- Botel Marina – Unique stay on a docked boat in Rijeka’s harbor, steps from the main promenade.
- Apartment Stara Vrata – Stylish and affordable apartments in the heart of the old town.
- Hotel Continental – Historic 3-star hotel near the river, known for its charming 19th-century architecture.
If you need help getting around, book one of these local tours:
Day 1 in Rijeka, Croatia:
Begin at the Astronomical Center Rijeka in the morning, have a quick lunch and climb the Captain Petar Kruzic Stairway.⮕ Astronomical Center Rijeka
Look at the stars and explore space exhibits on an exciting kids trip.
Plan a visit to the Astronomical Center Rijeka—it’s a unique spot that combines science, history, and stunning views. It's not just a planetarium; it's one of the only places like it in Croatia and the entire region. The site used to be a military post during World War II and is also home to the oldest archaeological site around.
You'll find the Astronomical Center Rijeka on Holly Cross Hill, a location that’s as beautiful as it is historic. It’s a protected cultural landmark, and one of those rare places where you feel like the sky really isn’t the limit. Definitely worth making time for.
⮕ Captain Petar Kruzic Stairway
Climb historic Rijeka steps and admire scenic views on a peaceful spring outing.
Next stop, the stairway is both an artistic statement and a tribute to Captain Petar Kruzic, a respected warlord from nearly 500 years ago. It begins with a beautiful arch featuring Madonna and the Child, setting the tone for the path ahead. This monument was built to honor Kruzic’s legacy, and it still stands as a meaningful piece of history today.
When the Captain Petar Kruzic Stairway was first built in 1531, it had fewer steps—but over the centuries, more were added. Today, the stairway has 500 steps, inviting you to climb them and experience a piece of Rijeka’s artistic and architectural heritage.
Day 2 in Rijeka, Croatia:
Visit City Tower, head to Korzo and if you have extra time, stop at the Natural History Museum before heading back to your hotel.⮕ City Tower
See baroque details and discover Rijeka, Croatia history on an easy sightseeing trip.
Once a part of the robust construction of the old city, the City Tower is now a well-known and familiar symbol of Rijeka. It also represents an example of the ideal access point. The tower was originally built in the Middle Ages, but it was modified during the Baroque period, as you can see from the ornaments characteristic for this period’s architecture and art.
Up until World War I, there was a statue of a two-headed eagle set on the top of the City Tower, but Austrian soldiers removed it to make a statement. The City Tower still stands as a testament to the many changes throughout the ages.
⮕ Korzo
Walk along the promenade and enjoy local shops on a fun weekend visit.
If you are looking for a place in Rijeka that perfectly describes this amazing city, consider Korzo. Korzo is equally adored by the residents of Rijeka as well as by visitors. It is a promenade where you can take a walk and have fun. Sit in one of the beautiful rooms in the authentic bars and have a cup of coffee or tea, or just sit on a bench, relax, and observe Korzo pulsing throughout the morning, afternoon, or night – it’s alive and busy during the entire day, accurately depicting the picturesque appearance of Rijeka. Take a walk across Korzo to better understand this city.
⮕ Natural History Museum
Explore fossils and look at wildlife exhibits on an affordable educational family trip to Rijeka, Croatia.
If you want to get to know the natural history of Rijeka, then the Natural History Museum is the place to visit. This museum collects, preserves, and exhibits natural history specimens collected in Istria, Gorski Kotar, and Kvarner Bay.
If you want to pay a visit to the Natural History Museum, you can request and schedule a visit where you are guided by one of the five experts, one of whom is a prominent geologist with four biologists on the team. There are over 90,000 different specimens you can learn about, including rare and endangered species.
Your Questions About Rijeka, Croatia Answered Here:
- Q: What is Rijeka known for?
- A: Croatia's premier seaport and its third largest city after Zagreb and Split, Rijeka is known for its cultural and historical importance in Croatia.
- Q: Where is Rijeka located?
- A: To visit Rijeka, head towards the Adriatic Sea and Kvarner Bay, where this beautiful city with its population of a little over 100,000 residents is located.
- Q: What makes Rijeka significant?
- A: Rijeka’s significance lies not only in its beauty but also in its cultural and historical importance in Croatia. It has been designated the European Capital of Culture 2020 and was once an important strategic seaport.
- Q: What are some of the attractions in Rijeka?
- A: If you want to know more about this fascinating city, here are some of the places you should visit.
Rijeka Travel Info at a Glance:
| Best Time to Visit | Places to Stay | Tips for Visiting |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes, great for exploring the city and coastline. | Hotel Bonavia Plava Laguna – A stylish stay in the heart of Rijeka. | Visit Trsat Castle – Enjoy panoramic views and historical charm. |
| Summer (June-August) – Warm and lively, ideal for beaches, festivals, and nightlife. | Hilton Rijeka Costabella Beach Resort & Spa – A luxurious beachfront escape. | Relax at Sablicevo Beach – One of Rijeka’s most popular beaches. |
| Fall (September-November) – Pleasant weather and fewer tourists, great for sightseeing and hiking. | Hotel Jadran – A waterfront hotel with stunning Adriatic views. | Explore the Lungomare coastal promenade – Walk along the scenic seaside path from Rijeka to Opatija. |
| Winter (December-February) – Cool but festive, perfect for cultural events and holiday markets. | Botel Marina – A unique hotel on a docked ship. | Experience the Rijeka Carnival – One of Europe’s most famous and colorful carnivals. |
For more information on traveling to Rijeka, Croatia read our articles on:
When to Visit Rijeka, Croatia - Weather Year Round
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Table of Contents:
- 1. Astronomical Center Rijeka
- 2. Captain Petar Kruzic Stairway
- 3. City Tower
- 4. Korzo
- 5. Natural History Museum