Nestled along the scenic Adriatic coast, Opatija, a picturesque town in Croatia, is a coastal haven known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and seaside charm. With its elegant promenade, historical architecture, and lush gardens, Opatija invites travelers to experience a tranquil escape on the Adriatic. In this article, we’ll be your guide to this coastal oasis, showcasing top hotels, restaurants, shopping spots, and captivating events that make Opatija a delightful destination.
I’ve described Rab as my home base. If there was an old home base, Opatija is one of them. I spent four years going to high school here (excellent tourism and hospitality program, perhaps the strongest in Croatia). When my wife moved to Rijeka, we lived a mere few miles from Opatija. This meant we’d spent a lot of time swimming, walking on Lungo Mare, drinking everything from coffee to cocktails, and just enjoying everything Opatija and neighboring towns have to offer.
Hotels in Opatija

Opatija offers an array of accommodation options, each offering a unique blend of luxury and coastal serenity:
- Hotel Bevanda: Situated on the waterfront promenade, Hotel Bevanda offers refined elegance and panoramic sea views. It’s the perfect choice for travelers seeking luxury and relaxation.
- Grand Hotel Adriatic: This historic hotel exudes charm and tradition. Located in the heart of Opatija, it offers comfortable rooms, a spa, and easy access to the town’s attractions.
- Remisens Premium Hotel Kvarner: Known as Opatija’s oldest hotel, the Kvarner is a symbol of timeless elegance. With its iconic Belle Époque architecture, it provides a unique and opulent experience.
- Ambasador: I know I am a bit biased, as I worked here as a teenager 25 years ago. However, since then, Ambasador has gone through several upgrades and renovations. Now the proud owner of five stars offering spectacular views, beach access, an indoor pool with heated seawater (15 m x 5,6 m), an outdoor pool with seawater (20,75 x 11,58 m), and a garage. All are within walking distance of Opatija center.
List of Opatija hotels (three stars – * * * ) (updated 22nd September 2023)
- Hotel Galeb
- Hotel Gardenija with annex Continental
- Hotel Istra
- Hotel “Lungomare (ex Residenz)”
- Hotel Villa Ariston

List of Opatija hotels (four stars – * * * * ) (updated 22nd September 2023)
- Hotel Admiral
- Hotel Agava
- Hotel Astoria
- Hotel Bristol
- Hotel Domino
- Grand Hotel Adriatic
- Hotel Ičići
- Hotel Kristal
- Hotel Kvarner with annex Vila Amalia
- Hotel Laurus (ex Hotel Villa Kapetanović)
- Hotel Mali Raj
- Milenij Grand Hotel 4 Opatijska Cvijeta with annex Magnolija
- Hotel Miramar
- Hotel Paris
- Remisens Premium Grand Hotel Palace s depandansom Vila Abbazia (ex Hotel Palace Bellevue)
- Remisens Premium Heritage Hotel Imperial (ex Hotel Imperial)
- Hotel Royal
- Hotel Savoy

List of Opatija hotels (five stars – * * * * * ) (updated 22nd September 2023)
- Hotel Ambasador
- Hotel Bevanda
- Hotel Milenij (ex Millenium)
- Hotel Milenij Sveti Jakov
- Hotel Navis
Restaurants

Opatija’s dining scene showcases Mediterranean flavors and fresh seafood:
- Plavi Podrum: Nestled in an old wine cellar, Plavi Podrum offers exquisite seafood dishes and an extensive wine list. It’s a culinary gem for seafood lovers.
- Roko: A family-owned restaurant, Roko serves traditional Croatian cuisine with a modern twist. Try local specialties in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
- Bevanda Restaurant: Located within Hotel Bevanda, this upscale restaurant boasts an innovative menu with a focus on fresh ingredients and culinary creativity.
Shopping
Opatija offers a variety of shopping experiences:
- Slatina Shopping Passage: Explore this charming shopping arcade for boutique stores selling clothing, accessories, and souvenirs.
- Market Volosko: Visit this local market in the nearby fishing village of Volosko to discover fresh produce, seafood, and handmade crafts.
Events

Opatija hosts a range of cultural and recreational events throughout the year:
- Opatija Carnival: Held in February, this lively carnival features colorful parades, masked balls, and a festive atmosphere, offering a taste of Opatija’s vibrant traditions.
- Opatija Summer Stage: During the summer months, the town hosts a series of open-air concerts and performances at the Opatija Summer Stage, set against the backdrop of the Adriatic Sea.
- Liburnia Jazz Festival: Music enthusiasts can enjoy jazz performances by renowned artists at this annual festival, which takes place in various scenic locations around Opatija.
- Opatija Chocolate Festival: Need we say more? Indulge in chocolate aromas and enjoy the elegance of Opatija, the town of chocolate! 10.-12.11.2023.
- RetrOpatija: A musical time machine in which swing, rockabilly, rock, jazz, and electric disco music merge together to create a fantastic party dedicated to the key decades and musical styles of the twentieth century. Probable date – June 22-24, 2024

Conclusion
Opatija, Croatia’s seaside oasis, invites travelers to experience a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and coastal elegance. Whether you’re strolling along the charming promenade, savoring Mediterranean cuisine, exploring boutique shopping, or immersing yourself in the town’s cultural events, Opatija promises a serene and enriching escape. Its unique fusion of culture, cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil coastal retreat on the Adriatic.
Featured image by Emin Huric on Unsplash.