The city best known as the gateway to the Kvarner archipelago is a phenomenal base to explore the stunning islands of Losinj, Cres, Pag, Rab and Cres on your next vacation on board one of our fantastic yachts for charter.
So close to the untamed natural beauty, yet so sophisticated and polished, Rijeka owes its charms to its lovely position in the Adriatic for which reason it was the melting pot of numerous cultures.
As it belonged to different rulers, Rijeka boasts striking architecture and a cosmopolitan allure. Being the third largest city in Croatia, right after Zagreb and Split, it has all the advantages of a modern, vibrant city, while allowing you to access exotic-looking beaches by your luxury yacht for charter within minutes.
The deep water harbour in Rijeka was once the reason Croats, Italians and the Hungarians battled over the city for centuries, while today it makes the city a principal port of this beautiful coastal country with great economic importance.
From the dazzling neoclassical buildings, to the booming gastronomical scene, there is no shortage of reasons to visit this magnificent coastal town.
Things to see in Rijeka
The Croatian National Theatre
The opera, ballet and theatre house of this elegant port town has art pieces that steal any show - most notably the early works of the famous Gustav Klimt.
Established in 1885, the theatre is a masterpiece of architecture done by Ivan Zajc, where Klimt, his brother Ernst and Franz Matsch, who together formed the “Die Künstler-Company” that specialised in theatre decoration and were commissioned to for three works that are still the pride of the city of Rijeka.
Church of Our Lady of Trsat
To get the best panoramic views of this azure port town, we recommend you head to the 13th Century Church of Our Lady of Trsat, a part of an important pilgrimage for the devout Catholic community. According to legend, the house in Nazareth where Holy Mary lived mysteriously showed up here in 1291, after disappearing only to be discovered in Loreto, Italy. After that miraculous event, the church was commissioned - the Sanctuary of the Mother of God was allegedly painted by apostle Luke.
Later in the 17th century, the church also got a monastery with lavish baroque design.
Petar Kružić Stairway
In order to reach the Church of Our Lady of Trsat, you’ll have to take the Petar Kružić Stairway that starts at the banks of Fiumara or Rijecima river and ends 138 metres above sea level. The construction of the stairway began in 1531. By Petar Kružić, a Croatian duke and hero of the battles against the Ottomans, but the work was completed only three centuries later, when the baroque entrance hall was added.
Trsat Castle
Built on the remains of an ancient Roman castle by Frankopan Princes of Krk, the castle was later owned by several conquestors, all of whom left a trace on the majestic citadel. On a clear day, you will be able to see the entire Kvarner Bay from the castle, as well as the Fiumara river, and the city itself. After a vigorous hike through the mediaeval Trsat neighbourhood, you can relax in a bar here and shop souvenirs.
Peek & Poke Computer Museum
The 300m2 museum devoted to the history of computers quickly became one of the most popular tourist attractions, after opening its doors in 2007. Started by a few computer enthusiasts, the Peek & Poke Computer Museum has won several awards and a visit from the Apple founder himself.
The museum has a permanent exhibit of over 2000 items that show the incredibly fast development in recent years - you will be amazed to see just how bulky and chunky our keyboards were just 2 decades ago. The computer Andy Warhol used to develop his art, the first personal computer by Apple, as well as pieces from the then very advanced Yugoslav tech industry.
Risnjak National Park
Although there are dozens of historical landmarks left to explore in Rijeka, you might want a change of scenery and a peaceful stroll through nature. If so, head to the Risnjak National Park, a green sanctuary just a short drive from the city with rich flora and fauna. Several deer species call this park home, as well as the brown bear, the chamois goat-antelope, weasel, squirrels and many other animals.
The Park has the highest elevation point at 1528 metres and makes for a lovely day activity with children.
Best Beaches in Rijeka
While Istria is not famous for dreamy beaches, Rijeka is an exception to the rule. While you can always hop onboard your charter yacht to find wild beaches of the Kvarner Bay, you can also count on tropical-looking swimming spots in the heart of the city.
Fiumana Beach
Awarded with the Blue Flag standar for the incredible purity of the water and excellent organisation, Fiumana or Plaza Ploce as the residents call it is probably the most popular beach in Rijeka.
The pebbly cove is a great place to spend a family beach day, since the water is safe and protected from the wind. Nearby, you’ll find the Kantrida pool complex that organises excellent diving lessons.
Sablićevo Beach
Perhaps the prettiest beach in the city, Sablićevo Beach flaunts breathtaking natural scenery with dramatic cliffs and rich greenery. The colour of the sea is breathtakingly stunning, in all shades of blue. Curiously, this lush haven is located just minutes from the city centre and is a great place to come and refresh after hours spent exploring the numerous landmarks in Rijeka.
Preluk Beach
Actually a complex of several dreamy beaches with enough privacy for everyone, Preluk Beach consists of a few protected bays and a naturalist beach. This is an optimal choice for those who like to enjoy the sea far from tourist crowds.
Kostrena Beach
Don your luxury yacht’s diving gear to explore the rich aquatic life in this charming Rijeka paradise - you might spot numerous starfish varieties here, although the sea is so transparent here, you’ll be able to see numerous species without even getting wet.
In case you want to take a break, you can find several chill restaurants and cafes here to enjoy a cocktail or freshly cooked seafood.
Best restaurants in Rijeka
Due to merciful climate, long stretches of untouched nature and pure seas brimming with life, dining in Rijeka is reason enough to come here. For a fraction of the price, you will have the chance to explore fine cuisine and the rarest delicacies, including truffles and lobsters that make their way into almost every dish served here.
Nebo Restaurant & Lounge By Deni Srdoc
The stylish restaurant located on a rooftop with vertigo views of Rijeka, Nebo offers spectacular local dishes, perapered with a creative twist, offering all the best tastes of Istria on a plate. The mastery of chef Deni gave this restaurant a spot in the Michelin guide and truly deserves all the praise it receives. An excellent choice for a romantic date.
Khala Bar
A modern setting, Vogue-worthy interior and mouth watering Italian dishes make Khala one of the liveliest Rijeka restaurants, best suited for young crowds looking for a chic place to eat before heading for a night out in the town.
Bistrot Paris (Kalorija)
From Italian-style pizzas, to excellent meat cuts, such as the New-York strip steak drowned in truffle sauce, Bistrot Paris offers haute cuisine with artful presentation. The vibrant atmosphere, friendly staff and modern interior make it one of the most highly regarded restaurants in Rijeka.
Konoba Tarsa
When it comes to an authentic Istrian experience, look no further than Konoba Tarsa, a cosy traditional restaurant that brings the best specialties of the region in a relaxed, classic ambiance.
StoRiJa
When in the mood for some delicious international cuisine, head to StoRiJa, a non-pretentious restaurant with delectant food from all over the world, made using only the freshest, locally sourced ingredients. There are plenty of options for vegans and those following a gluten-free diet, while the place itself is pretty easy-going, making it a great choice for a family lunch.
Shopping in Rijeka
When you’re looking to bring some gifts back home after your yacht charter comes to an end, you will have plenty of options in Rijeka, including the huge Ztc Shopping Centre and Tower Centre with a multitude of famous international brands.
If you’d rather buy something more local, head to the Mali Neboder antique shop with an interesting array of books, jewellery and house decor from different historical eras.
Croatia in a Box has an amazing selection of the finest regional specialties, including wine, truffles, and cheese, as well as chic accessories made by renowned Croatian designers - probably the best place to hunt for presents. Samovar Tea Shop offers beautifully packaged teas made from the rare local herbs to keep you warm when summer and your luxury charter vacation are over.
