Are you planning to travel to Croatia for your next vacation? Make sure to include Rijeka as one of the must-visit cities. The port city of Croatia, which is also the third-largest city in the country, is loaded with a myriad of attractions that will help you create beautiful memories that last for a lifetime. From appreciating the beauty of nature and exploring every corner of old buildings like castles and fortresses to admiring a number of churches and savoring fresh seafood, Rijeka has them all. For accommodations, there are Airbnb vacation rentals in Rijeka that offer amazing amenities. If you wish to have quick access to the stretch of sand and coast, the beachfront hotels in Crikvenica, a coastal city just 35 minutes away from Rijeka, offer great stays. To make your trip more worthwhile, note down some of these top things to do in Rijeka, Croatia.
1. Admire the mesmerizing Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle (from USD 135.35)
This immersive experience takes you from the vibrant city of Rijeka to the mesmerizing underground realm of Postojna Cave, where you’ll witness the breathtaking formations carved by nature over millennia. As you explore the depths of the cave, you’ll be awed by its immense chambers adorned with stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
The adventure continues with a visit to the awe-inspiring Predjama Castle, perched dramatically within a cliffside cave. This medieval marvel steeped in legends offers a glimpse into the past as you wander through its hidden passages and learn about its rich history. Expert guides provide engaging insights, enhancing your understanding of these remarkable sites.
Rijeka: Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle
Duration: 6.0 hour
2. Shop 'til you drop at Shopping Mall Rijeka
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
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Posted by Robna kuća RI on Wednesday, February 1, 2023
Shopping Mall Rijeka stands as a vibrant hub of retail therapy and leisure in the city. This shopping haven boasts a diverse collection of stores that cater to every taste and preference. From renowned international brands to local boutiques, the mall offers an extensive array of fashion, accessories, electronics, and more.
Shoppers can explore the latest trends, discover unique pieces, and indulge in a satisfying shopping experience. Beyond the stores, the mall features a selection of dining options, from cozy cafes to enticing restaurants, providing the perfect setting to unwind and recharge. Its central location and modern ambiance make it a convenient and enjoyable place for both locals and visitors to spend their day.
Shopping Mall Rijeka
Address: Riva 6, 51000, Rijeka, Croatia
Website: Shopping Mall Rijeka
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 8am - 8pm (closed on Sun)
3. Visit Maritime and History Museum of the Croatian Littoral
Set in the Governor’s Palace, which is a stunning building from the 19th century, Maritime and History Museum of the Croatian Littoral displays an extensive collection of artifacts that will help you understand more about the local and Croatian history. Many objects originated in the pre-historical times up to the 20th century. The most prominent feature of the museum is perhaps the aquatic transportation section in which you can enjoy observing ship equipment, nautical instruments, and reconstruction of ships.
Maritime and History Museum of the Croatian Littoral
Address: Trg Riccarda Zanelle 1, 51000, Rijeka, Croatia
Website: Maritime and History Museum of the Croatian Littoral
Opening hours: Mon: 9am - 4pm; Tue - Sat: 9am - 8pm; Sun: 9am - 1pm
Price: 20 HRK (3 USD)
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4. Learn about sea life at Natural History Museum
Those who are fond of life in the sea and everything related to nature must make a stop at the Natural History Museum, a top attraction in Rijeka that features a multimedia aquarium. As soon as you step into the multimedia center, you will be presented with demonstrations about sea creatures, both the scary and friendly ones. The stunning collection of amphibians, insects, and reptiles in the museum will also blow your mind away.
Natural History Museum
Address: Lorenzov pro. 1, 51000, Rijeka, Croatia
Website: Natural History Museum
Opening hours: 9am - 8pm (daily)
Price: 30 HRK (4 USD)
5. Have an astronomical experience at Astronomical Center Rijeka
For a delightful journey to the sky and the stars high above, you should drive to Astronomical Center Rijeka. Enjoying the reputation as the first astronomical center in Croatia, Astronomical Center Rijeka stands tall on the hill of Sveti Kriz. You should visit the observatory and planetarium as well as exploring other contents related to the galaxy. If you wish to gaze upon the stars via a telescope, you should come on a Saturday at 10pm. When the weather allows, you can have as much time as possible to indulge in a stargazing experience.
Astronomical Center Rijeka
Address: Svetog Križa, 51000, Rijeka, Croatia
Website: Astronomical Center Rijeka
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 8am - 10pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
Price: 20 HRK (3 USD)
6. Make a stop at City Clock Tower
City Clock Tower is among the most popular sights in Rijeka. The popularity of the clock tower is beyond compare as it is easier for a lot of local people in the city to meet under the clock rather than anywhere else. As you are strolling along Korzo, you will be able to spot the striking yellow building from afar. This is where the clock tower is situated.
City Clock Tower
Address: 51000, Rijeka, Croatia
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
7. Discover the beauty of Golden Island of Krk (from USD 92.61)
Nestled in Kvarner Bay, Krk is called the golden island not without reason. As one of the largest islands in the Adriatic Sea, Krk boasts its mild temperature throughout the year along with a variety of both cultural and natural beauties. Board a cruise ship that will take you to an array of landscapes and monuments that are more than a thousand years old. You are also welcome to savor the delectable taste of authentic Krk cuisine along with delicious homemade wine.
To maximize your trip to this island, why not while away the night in one of the quaint Airbnb vacation rentals in Krk?
From Rijeka: Golden Island of Krk Tour
Duration: 6.0 hour
8. Climb the staircase of Stube Petra Kružića
There are plenty of staircases that you can find throughout Rijeka, but nothing beats the popularity of Stube Petra Kružića. Built in 1531 to make it easier for the faithful people to get to the church on the top, Stube Petra Kružića consists of 538 stairs in total. Climb slowly but surely and when you get to the top, your effort will be worth it. On the top of the hill, you will be presented with a pilgrimage church along with a petite village. At the same time, you can also enjoy the sweeping views of the city of Rijeka.
Stube Petra Kružića
Address: Trsatske stube Petra Kružića, 51000, Rijeka, Croatia
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
9. Admire the collection at Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art
Situated in a new cluster that is loaded with everything related to art and culture, Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art is an excellent destination for all art lovers. Founded in 1948, the museum is well-known for its contemporary art exhibitions that never disappoint. The museum hosts permanent exhibitions as well as rotating exhibitions that display art pieces from international artists around the world. Its most interesting feature is the Biennial of the Quadrilateral that features artists from four countries that have the most profound impact on the history and development of Rijeka, namely Croatia, Hungary, Slovenia, and Italy.
Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art
Address: Krešimirova ul. 26c, 51000, Rijeka, Croatia
Website: Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 11am - 8pm (closed on Mon)
Price: Free
10. Offer your prayers at Capuchin Church of Our Lady of Lourdes
Capuchin Church of Our Lady of Lourdes is not only a Catholic church but it is also one of the most beautiful churches to be admired in Rijeka. Constructed for 30 years by a local architect Cornelio Budinich, the grand neo-gothic church consists of the lower church and the upper church, which is the main church. The lower church’s most beautiful features are the colorful stained-glass windows along with the narrow vaults, whereas, for the upper church, you can admire the white house statue of Our Lady of Lourdes and make a stop at the spot that boasts the views of the city center and the nearby port.
Capuchin Church of Our Lady of Lourdes
Address: Kapucinske stube 5, 51000, Rijeka, Croatia
Website: Capuchin Church of Our Lady of Lourdes
Opening hours: 9am - 12pm, 4pm - 8pm (daily)
Price: Free
11. Explore the beautiful Old Town of Rijeka
To get to the Old Town of Rijeka, an area that you must definitely explore for its beauty, architectural gems and vibrant atmosphere, the easiest way is to walk past the City Clock Tower, headed to the former main city gate and enter from the coast. As soon as you step into the Old Town of Rijeka, your first stop should be the main city market where you can enjoy local goods and products before you start admiring the medieval buildings and houses that are scattered on the east and west side.
Old Town of Rijeka
Address: Rijeka, Croatia
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
12. Reminisce about the old days at Peek & Poke Computer Museum
Think of the old days, what kind of computer did you use? What kind of games did you play? Visiting Peek & Poke Computer Museum will give you the opportunity to reminisce about those past times when the technology was not as advanced as it is today. Holding the reputation as the first museum that displays computers and their equipment, Peek & Poke Computer Museum features a collection of more than 1,000 exhibits. From the first calculators in the world to obsolete computers from the 90s and old game consoles to early photo and video technology, the museum guarantees a fun time.
Peek & Poke Computer Museum
Address: Ul. Ivana Grohovca 2A, 51000, Rijeka, Croatia
Website: Peek & Poke Computer Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 6pm; Sat: 11am - 4pm (closed on Sun)
Price: 30 HRK (4 USD)
13. Gain insights into the culture at Museum of the City of Rijeka
The museum may be small but you should not judge a book by its cover because once you get inside the museum, you will be amazed at how impressive the exhibitions truly are. Set in a 1970s building, Museum of the City of Rijeka hosts exhibitions whose theme changes from time to time. But, one thing for sure, the exhibitions are always about art and elements related to local history and culture.
Museum of the City of Rijeka
Address: Trg Riccarda Zanelle 1, 51000, Rijeka, Croatia
Website: Museum of the City of Rijeka
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 7pm; Sun: 10am - 3pm
Price: 15 HRK (2 USD)
14. Admire the stunning Palace Modello
When you look at Palace Modello, you will soon remember about the buildings that are commonly found in Vienna, Austria. No wonder, because Palace Modello was designed by Viennese architects Fellner & Helmer. It might be interesting to know that the palace was built right on the spot of an old theater that was completely destroyed. Admire the exterior first before you step inside the palace. Take the magical stairs and visit the library. Sometimes, the palace is also used as a place to practice choir.
Palace Modello
Address: Rijeka, Croatia
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
15. Buy fresh fish at Rijeka Fish Market
Experience how vibrant the atmosphere of the city of Rijeka is by making a stop at Rijeka Fish Market, which can be found inside Rijeka Central Market, the main market. Built by the seashore at the end of the 19th century, the market is fully loaded with vendors that sell an array of products, from fruits and vegetables to meats and fish. Rijeka Fish Market is probably the best market for you as it offers fresh fish and other sea products from local and regional areas. Nothing can replace the authentic ambiance of a local market, not even a supermarket.
Rijeka Fish Market
Address: Verdijeva ul. 13, 51000, Rijeka, Croatia
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 7am - 2pm; Sun: 7am - 12pm
Price: Free
16. Visit a torpedo launch station at Torpedo Factory
Before reading this article, you probably had no idea that torpedo, the very first one, was invented right in Rijeka. The aim of inventing the torpedo was to defend the coastline of Rijeka, not to destroy something or someplace. It was Ivan Luppis, a retired naval officer, who first thought about this idea. Torpedo Factory was the place where the first torpedo was launched, which is why it is a must-visit historical place.
Torpedo Factory
Address: Ul. Milutina Barača 56a, 51000, Rijeka, Croatia
Website: Torpedo Factory
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
17. Pay a visit to Sanctuary of the Mother of God Trsat
The main reason to reach to the top of a hill to visit Sanctuary of the Mother of God Trsat is that this church is the oldest in Croatia and is the most significant sanctuary in the country. Moreover, the sanctuary is also the largest that you can find in the western part of Croatia. Built as a dedication to Mary, Mother of God, the sanctuary features an astonishing painting of the Lady of Trsat, which was a gift from Pope Urban V in 1367. The church from the main Gothic era is known for its impressive features that include the Baroque architecture, a late Gothic triumph arch, and a luxurious altar.
Sanctuary of the Mother of God Trsat
Address: Frankopanski trg, 51000, Rijeka, Croatia
Website: Sanctuary of the Mother of God Trsat
Opening hours: 6am - 8pm (daily)
Price: Free
18. Enjoy the public bath at Beach Ploče
Rijeka is loaded with a lot of beaches, some of which are more beautiful than others. A refreshing dip in the calm sea is among the free things to do in Rijeka because several of its beaches are open to the public.
Beach Ploče, for instance, is highly popular among families with little children, thanks to its shallow banks. What is more, the water is clear and clean, so you will not have to worry about a thing when taking a bath here. You can also enjoy recreational activities offered by the beach, such as beach volleyball and water polo.
Beach Ploče
Address: 51000, Rijeka, Croatia
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
19. Stop by one of the oldest fortifications in Croatia Trsat Castle
Perched high above the city on a hill that boasts the magnificent views of the Adriatic, the nearby valley and Rječina River, Trsat Castle is one of the oldest fortifications that is worth admiring in Croatia. Preserving the features of the early Medieval period, Trsat Castle, that was built in the 13th century, offers visual arts gallery and also hosts events regularly such as theater performances and outdoor musical shows.
Trsat Castle
Address: Trg Riječke rezolucije 1, 51000, Rijeka, Croatia
Opening hours: 9am - 8pm (daily)
Price: 15 HRK (2 USD)
20. Be amused by a performance at The Croatian National Theatre Ivan Zajc
When you see The Croatian National Theatre Ivan Zajc, it will remind you of another place mentioned in this article, Palace Modello. Both buildings showcase a Viennese design as they were built by the same architects. The theater opened to the public for the first time in 1885 and it was built as a dedication to a local composer Ivan Zajc. You can see his statue in front of the theater. If you are interested in touring the theater, sightseeing tours are available. But, the tour is not the most important point about the theater. You go to the theater to enjoy a musical performance, especially a classical one, that will surely keep you entertained for the whole day.
The Croatian National Theatre Ivan Zajc
Address: Uljarska ul. 1, 51000, Rijeka, Croatia
21. Indulge in a waterfront dining experience at Molo Longo
Set in front of the water, Molo Longo will elevate your dining experience in Rijeka, thanks to its location and various delicious dishes served to satisfy your appetite. The restaurant is known for serving a combination of Central European, Croatian and Mediterranean dishes. Among the most popular menu are whitefish and bluefish that are grilled together with vegetables and risotto with turkey and veggies. To end your culinary experience at this restaurant, you may want to try their desserts such as pana cotta and chocolate souffle.
Molo Longo
Address: Riječki lukobran, 51000, Rijeka, Croatia
Website: Molo Longo
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 11pm (closed on Sun)
22. Be stunned by the architecture of St. Vitus Cathedral
You have seen neo-Gothic and Baroque churches, now it is time to be stunned by the architecture of a Romanesque church called St. Vitus Cathedral. The church was built as a dedication to St. Vitus, the protector and patron saint of the city. The cathedral is famous for its unusual round shape. The altar and covered porch are also a must-see.
St. Vitus Cathedral
Address: Grivica ul. 11, 51000, Rijeka, Croatia
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 6am - 5pm; Sat: 6am - 12pm; Sun: 9am - 12pm
Price: Free
23. Admire the views of Kvarner Bay from Veprinac
One of the best places to visit in Rijeka for magnificent vistas is Kvarner Bay. To reconnect with nature by admiring the views of the bay, the best viewpoint is from Veprinac. It takes only a few minutes to reach Veprinac from Rijeka by car. Along the way, you will be presented with views of the surrounding hills and mountains along with architectural gems in the form of houses and buildings.
Veprinac
Address: Rijeka, Croatia
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
24. Have fun with modern slot games at Casino Crystal Palace
You can have fun at any time that you want when you are in a city like Rijeka. Try your luck by visiting Casino Crystal Palace and have fun with the modern slot games that are ready to embrace your presence. From live game to poker to automat club, this casino promises the ultimate entertainment.
Casino Crystal Palace
Address: Trg 111 Brigade Hrvatske Vojske 9, 51000, Rijeka, Croatia
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
25. Spend time bowling at Bowling Center Rijeka
Another kind of entertainment that will help you recharge your energy is bowling. Time goes by fast without you even realizing it when you bowl. The best bowling center that you can find in the city is no other than Bowling Center Rijeka. Situated inside Happy Land, the biggest amusement park in Rijeka, the bowling center is the place for all kinds of bowlers. Challenge yourself and the other travelers to see who has got the best bowling skills. In addition to bowling, you can also indulge in billiards and arcade games.
Bowling Center Rijeka
Address: Ul. Janka Polića Kamova 81a, 51000, Rijeka, Croatia
Website: Bowling Center Rijeka
Opening hours: 8am - 12am (daily)
Price: 150 HRK (22 USD)
26. Swim or laze around at Sablićevo Beach
Situated just a few minutes away from the city center, Sablićevo Beach is one of the oldest beaches in Rijeka and is a perfect place for relaxation for both young and old people. The pebble beach is known for its crystal blue water along with facilities that include a shower, rooms to change clothes and sanitary facilities. So, swim for as long as you want here.
Sablićevo Beach
Address: 51000, Rijeka, Croatia
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
27. Marvel at the beautiful mosque in The Islamic Center of Rijeka
Last but not least, complete your adventure in Rijeka by going to the western part of the city and stopping by The Islamic Center of Rijeka, a place where you can marvel at a beautiful mosque, the third one that was ever built in Croatia. From the mosque, you can also enjoy the sweeping views of Učka mountain and the islands of the Rijeka region.
The Islamic Center of Rijeka
Address: Ul. Ante Mandića 50, 51000, Rijeka, Croatia
Website: The Islamic Center of Rijeka
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 4pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 10pm
Visit Rijeka for a memorable vacation in Croatia
Having read through all the attractions that you must visit in Rijeka above, there is nothing stopping you now from buying a ticket to get into the city and enjoy a vacation there. It is highly recommended that you engage in all or most of the top things to do to guarantee yourself and your family a memorable vacation in Rijeka, Croatia.
Frequently asked questions about the top things to do in Rijeka, Croatia
1. What are some of the free things that one can try in Rijeka?
Save some bucks by trying out these free activities in Rijeka: i) admire the collection at Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, ii) enjoy the public bath at Beach Ploče, iii) marvel at the stunning Palace Modello, and iv) pay a visit to Sanctuary of the Mother of God Trsat.
2. What are some of the top attractions in Rijeka?
Make your travel to Rijeka as complete as it can be by gaining first-hand experiences at some of its best landmarks and hotspots such as: i) Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle, ii) Natural History Museum, iii) City Clock Tower, and iv) Old Town Rijeka.
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