Photo of Opatija

About Opatija

Opatija is nestled in a sheltered position under the Ucka Mountain on the Gulf of Kvarner, and its temperate climate makes it a popular destination all year round. The best places to stay in Opatija are great for sightseeing, relaxing and generally taking time out.

The town traces its history back to Illyrian times, and patrician Romans built villas here. More recently, the advent of the railway made the area accessible to tourists from the late 19th century. This led to the development of the town as a fashionable resort, which drew the crème de la crème of Austro- Hungarian society (Gustav Mahler loved this place and was a frequent visitor). The Union Yacht Club dates from this era (1887) and was the first sailing club on the Adriatic.

Opatija has also always been renowned for its vibrant nightlife; bars, restaurants, clubs and casino. So there's no shortage of activities both day and night!

What Not To Miss

  • Visit the 14th century Benedictine Abbey in St. James Park.
  • Or, head over to the Park Angiolina gardens and marvel at their plant species from all across the globe.
  • There is also the wonderful ‘Promenade Lungomare’, a 12 kilometre walk along the Riviera from Voloska to Lovran.
  • Alternatively, you can simply enjoy the beach and try windsurfing, diving and sailing.

If you're visiting in July and August you'll need to plan well ahead if you want to book one of the best places to stay in Opatija. Alternatively come in the off season, when the weather's still good, but the masses have gone.

    For City Style

    • Design Hotel Astoria, originally Villa Louise, was built in 1904 in classic ‘Belle Epoque’ style. It has now been refurbished with a bright, cool, contemporary look. The hotel boasts a chic bar, exquisite Mediterranean cuisine and a refreshing spa. The historic old town is on the doorstep!

    For An Apartment Or Villa

    • If you'd rather the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available with our partner, Booking.com.

    Travel Information

    • Peak season, from May to September, brings with it the best weather - July and August experience average temperatures of 25°C. That said, these months are when Opatija is at its busiest and so expect to pay more for accommodation.
    • If you want to enjoy the weather but avoid the crowds then May, June and September are the best months to visit.
    • You can fly into Rijeka Airport, located 45km away from Opatija. From the airport, you can easily hop on the bus to Opatija which takes around an hour.
    • Croatia Airlines fly direct from Heathrow to Rijeka, with the journey taking around 2 hours 15 minutes.
    • For car hire prices, we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars.

      Still undecided?

        Weather

        Monthly Weather in Opatija

        Best Hotels in Opatija

        • Design Hotel Astoria Opatija 50 rooms from AU$109

          Spa  -  A nearby Thalasso Wellness Center with lots of spa treatments on offer.
          Sights nearby  -  "Emperor Francis Joseph” seaside promenade.
          Restaurant  -  Modern Istrian cuisine.
          Sailing  -  Can be booked nearby.
          SpaRestaurantPet friendlyParking
          Recommended by  -  Michelin Travel

          A modern and lively hotel on the Croatian Riviera. Large minimal rooms and suites with private balconies, all the mod cons, and sleek lines. Excellent terrace restaurant, lively bar, wellness spa around the corner, and stunning views out to sea. Romantic, family friendly, beachy. See More

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        • Hotel Villa Kapetanović Opatija 27 rooms from AU$130

          Romantic Break  -  Wake up with a sea view on your romantic holiday at this hotel; the spa is also a favourite with couples
          Spa breaks  -  Choose this hotel for a spa weekend and indulge in the Finnish sauna, hot tub and Turkish bath
          Beach Life  -  The sea is just a stone's throw from this hotel, making it great for a beach holiday
          Sights nearby  -  Take the hotel's free transfer to Opatija and visit sights such as Villa Angiolina and Saint Jacob's Church
          Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolPet friendlyViewsParking

          This pretty, family-run villa in Volosko boasts panoramic views over Kvarner Bay. The best of the modern suites offer terraces with sea views. Relax by the pool or in the uber modern spa. Guests love the hotel's fresh seafood restaurant, serving traditional Istrian dishes. A charming seaside hotel. See More

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        • Hotel Villa Astra Opatija (Lovran) 13 rooms from AU$220

          Spa breaks  -  Tend to the mind, body and spirit through a range of holistic therapies at the Astra Villa wellness centre
          Total relaxation  -  The idyliic coastal setting is the perfect place to recharge
          Tennis  -  Play tennis in this beautiful setting, tennis courts are located adjacent to the hotel
          Swimming Pool  -  The hotel has a gorgeous outdoor swimming pool by the sea
          Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolParking
          Recommended by  -  Great Small Hotels

          A historic spa hotel located in a secluded area in the town of Lovran. Interiors are classic and elegant, showcasing the building's original features. The wellness centre offers yoga classes and innovative spa treatments and there's a stunning outdoor pool. There's a superb authentic restaurant too. See More

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        • Design Hotel Navis HR-51410 Opatija 44 rooms from AU$235

          Beach Life  -  Enjoy total seculsion on the hotel's private beach just a few steps away, or take the hotel's boat to nearby stunning spots
          Spa breaks  -  This secluded spot offers an impressive spa equipped with pool, Finish sauna and Turkish baths
          Foodies  -  The hotel's slickly-designed restaurant offers fine dining based on local Istrian cuisine
          Outstanding location  -  Rooms enjoy stunning panoramic views of uninterrupted crystal-clear sea and blue skies
          Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolViews

          A superb 5-star hotel boasting contemporary design. Deluxe rooms feature modern artworks and smart minimalist style. The impressive restaurant serves fresh, local cuisine in a modern setting. Promising a relaxed stay, this property provides a spa, pool and panoramic sea-views. See More

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        • Amadria Park Hotel Milenij 51410, Opatija 96 rooms from AU$243

          Romantic Break  -  A luxury hotel ideal for couples with its romantic architecture, sweeping garden terraces, stunning views and indulgent spa
          Sights nearby  -  Visit the Villa Angiolina and its botanic gardens, the 15th century St James Church and the iconic Helios and Selene fountain
          Swimming Pool  -  Indoor pool
          Romantic  -  Good for couples.
          Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

          A Hapsburg-era luxury hotel with landscaped gardens and terraces offering romantic sea views. Interiors are grand yet bright balancing classical and contemporary styles, and fresh rooms vary from pared back modern-chic to opulent. Prepare to be delighted by the stellar cuisine and indulgent spa! See More

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        • Hotel Bevanda Opatija 10 rooms from AU$293

          Foodies  -  Foodies will love the hotel restaurant, with its modern twist on traditional Mediterranean cuisine
          Romantic Break  -  The luxurious suites and stunning sea views make this a great option for a romantic getaway
          Beach Life  -  Sitting right on the seafront, this hotel is perfect for a relaxed beach holiday
          Diving  -  Take a course at diving centre Marco Polo and discover life under the surface of the crystal clear waters
          Air conditioningRestaurantPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking
          Recommended by  -  Relais & Chateaux

          A beautiful, five-star design hotel on the Adriatic coast. The individually styled rooms are named after famous guests from the hotel's history; the best of the elegant, modern suites offer spacious terraces with sea views. Dine in the luxurious seafront restaurant at this exclusive Opatijan hotel. See More

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        • Ikador Hotel & Spa Opatija (Ika) 16 rooms from AU$719

          Luxury  -  Luxury is the aim of the game here from the gourmet cuisine to the nothing's-too-much concierge service, you won't lift a finger
          Total relaxation  -  With its water-side location, impeccable service, and spoiling spa — it is hard not to relax here
          Hotel boats for hire  -  Use the hotel's private speedboat for exploring the nearby Kvarner islands
          Spa  -  Ikalia Spa offers experience showers, massages with stones, beauty treatments, & a gravity-free (water) bed to "float" on
          Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParking
          Recommended by  -  I Escape

          A small luxury hotel boasting a spectacular waterfront setting overlooking the Kvarner Gulf. Swish rooms and suites feature private balconies and marble bathrooms. With all the luxury trimmings including a spa, infinity pool, and gourmet dining this is a real treat for a holiday in the sun. See More

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