The 14 BEST things to do in Rijeka, Croatia

Introduction

Welcome to The Journey Seeker! Find out all about best things to do in Rijeka, Croatia!

Welcome to Rijeka, Croatia – the gem of the Adriatic Sea! This bustling port city may not have the same fame as Dubrovnik or Split, but trust us, it’s worth a visit. From its laid-back atmosphere to its rich history and culture, Rijeka has a lot to offer.

Atmosphere/Vibes

Rijeka has a unique vibe that can’t be found anywhere else. It’s a city that effortlessly blends together the old and the new, with charming 19th-century Austro-Hungarian architecture standing alongside sleek modern buildings. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and there’s always something happening – whether it’s a street festival, a concert, or just a group of friends chatting and laughing over a cup of coffee.

Weather throughout the year

One of the best things about Rijeka is its mild Mediterranean climate. The summers are hot and sunny, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F). The winters are mild, with temperatures hovering around 10°C (50°F). The best time to visit is from May to September, when the weather is at its best and there are plenty of outdoor events and activities to enjoy.

Why Rijeka, Croatia is the best place to be

There are so many reasons why Rijeka is the best place to be. It’s a city with a rich history and culture, with a mix of Croatian, Italian, and Austro-Hungarian influences. It’s also a city that’s constantly evolving and reinventing itself – whether it’s through its vibrant arts and music scene, or its thriving food and drink scene. Plus, it’s located on the beautiful Adriatic Sea, so you can spend your days lounging on the beach or exploring the nearby islands.

Cost of Travel

One of the best things about Rijeka is that it’s an affordable destination. Accommodation, food, and activities are all relatively inexpensive compared to other European cities. You can easily find a budget-friendly hotel or Airbnb, and there are plenty of cheap and delicious restaurants to choose from.

Top 14 best things to do in Rijeka, Croatia

1. Explore the Old Town – Rijeka’s Old Town is filled with charming streets, historic buildings, and cozy cafes. Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow streets and discover hidden gems like the St. Vitus Cathedral and the Rijeka City Museum.
2. Go to the beach – Rijeka has several beaches to choose from, each with its own unique atmosphere. Trsat Beach is a popular spot with a lively atmosphere, while Ploče Beach is more laid-back and perfect for a quiet day by the sea.
3. Visit the Korzo – Korzo is Rijeka’s main pedestrian street, and it’s the perfect place to people-watch and do some shopping. There are also several outdoor cafes and restaurants where you can sit and relax with a cup of coffee or a meal.
4. Check out the museums – Rijeka is home to several interesting museums, including the Maritime and History Museum of the Croatian Littoral, the Natural History Museum, and the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. Each museum offers a unique look at the city’s history and culture.
5. Take a boat ride – Rijeka is a port city, so it’s no surprise that there are plenty of boat rides to choose from. Take a day trip to one of the nearby islands or go on a sunset cruise along the Adriatic Sea. It’s a great way to see the city from a different perspective.
6. Go hiking – Rijeka is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, so it’s a great place for hikers and nature lovers. There are several trails to choose from, ranging from easy to challenging, and the views are always stunning.
7. Try the local food and drink – Croatian cuisine is delicious, and Rijeka is a great place to try it. Don’t miss out on dishes like pasticada (beef stew), cevapi (grilled minced meat), and pastries like krafne (doughnuts) and fritule (fritters). Wash it all down with a glass of Croatian wine or a cold beer.
8. Attend a music festival – Rijeka has a vibrant music scene, and there are several music festivals held throughout the year. From rock to electronic, there’s something for everyone. Check out events like Rijeka Nights, Seasplash, and Dimension.
9. Go to an outdoor market – Rijeka has several outdoor markets where you can find everything from fresh produce and seafood to handmade crafts and souvenirs. The market in the Old Town is especially popular, and it’s a great place to get a feel for the local culture.
10. Visit the city’s parks – Rijeka has several beautiful parks that are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. The City Garden is a popular spot, and it’s a great place to relax and enjoy the warm weather.
11. Take a tour of the city – If you want to learn more about Rijeka’s history and culture, consider taking a tour. There are several options to choose from, including walking tours, boat tours, and food and drink tours.
12. Go to the aquarium – The Rijeka Aquarium is a great place to visit with kids (or just if you’re a kid at heart). It’s home to a wide variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and exotic fish.
13. Go shopping – Rijeka has a mix of modern shopping centers and charming independent stores. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs or just want to browse, there’s something for everyone.
14. Relax at a spa – After a busy day of sightseeing, there’s nothing better than relaxing at a spa. Rijeka has several options to choose from, offering everything from massages to saunas and hot tubs.
15. Check out the nightlife – Rijeka has a lively nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from. Whether you want to dance the night away or just have a drink with friends, there’s something for everyone.

Conclusion

There you have it – the 14 best things to do in Rijeka, Croatia! As you can see, this charming city has a lot to offer, and it’s the perfect place to relax and have fun. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just someone who enjoys good food and good company, Rijeka has something for you. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Rijeka!

Have you thought about staying in Rijeka for a little longer and working remotely? Here is another blog post about becoming a Digital Nomad in Rijeka

Did you like this post? Have a look at our other blog posts about living in Croatia, such as Karlovac, Split or Pula.