Rijeka

Rijeka is a captivating port city in Kvarner Bay, bordering the Ucka National Park. It has a rich maritime heritage dates back centuries, and it is still a bustling port today. The city’s waterfront promenade, known as Korzo, is a lively hub of activity, lined with elegant cafes, chic boutiques, and charming historic buildings.

In fact, Rijeka is one of the top 100 ports in the world. The Bay of Rijeka is deep enough (about 49 m) to accommodate large commercial ships. The city’s economy largely depends on shipbuilding and worldwide maritime transport.

What to See in Rijeka

• Enjoy the international carnival procession, which always takes place on the Sunday before Ash Wednesday. Over a hundred carnival groups from Croatia walk the Korzo during the parade, singing, dancing, and showing off their costumes.
• Visit the glorious Trsat Castle. It is an enchanting medieval fortress, situated on a hilltop that overlooks the city. Thanks to its commanding position, the castle offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the Adriatic Sea, and the surrounding landscapes. Originally built in the 13th century, the castle has served various roles over the centuries—first as a strategic stronghold, then as a noble residence, and later even as a pilgrimage site.
• Stop by the nearby Shrine of Our Lady of Trsat, one of the oldest in Croatia, that in June 2003 was visited by Pope John Paul II. The shrine and the Franciscan Monastery are also connected with Rijeka’s city center with Petar Kruzic’s Steps.
• Visit the main City Market, chosen by the people of Rijeka as the best place to dine since the 19th century.

What to Do in Rijeka

• Walk the docks of Rijeka port.
• Walk across the city center’s main street Korzo and visit local shops and bars.
• Visit the History Museum.
• Stroll through Trsat Park, made in the period between the two World Wars. It is known for its indigenous plants, respecting the natural rocky landscape, and the old cemetery.
• Decorate yourself with a Morcic head. The Morcic head, made of gold or silver, is a symbolic jewelry piece featuring a dark-skinned face with large eyes and a turban or feathered headdress. It reflects the region’s historical ties to the Ottoman Empire and embodies its complex cultural heritage.In this way, the Morcic head encapsulates both the artistic and historical legacy of the area, blending elements of cultural exchange and tradition.
• Visit Fiorello La Guardia, the consular office in the city center on the Korz. La Guardia was one of the most famous mayors of New York City. He was also half Croatian and spent some time in Rijeka, Croatia.
• See the life jacket from The Titanic that belonged to the sailor Josip Car. Car, who was from Rijeka, worked on the Carpathia ship, which assisted in the rescue of the Titanic. This is one of the five exemplars in the world and the only one in Europe at the Maritime Museum of Rijeka.
• A bus journey from Rijeka to Senj is a scenic adventure, offering stunning coastal views and a rewarding visit to one of Croatia’s oldest towns.
• Rijeka is just a short 2.5-hour bus ride from Zagreb, mostly cruising along the motorway. Kick back, enjoy the ride, and soak up some great views on the way to the coast!
• The travel from Rijeka to Krk Island is quick and scenic, taking you across a stunning bridge with views of the Adriatic Sea

Sample 8-Day Itinerary Including Rijeka

Day 1 | Arrive in Split – Rijeka

Arrive at the ACI Marina in Split, and board your luxury yacht. Settle into your cabin and familiarize yourself with the yacht. After a brief safety meeting, we set sail for Hvar.

Day 2 | Hvar – Rijeka

Explore the charming town of Hvar, known for its beautiful architecture, vibrant nightlife, and picturesque harbor. Visit the historic sites, such as the Hvar Fortress and the Franciscan Monastery, or relax on the sandy beaches.

In the evening, explore Hvar’s exciting nightlife.

Day 3 | Cruise to Vis

Sail to the secluded island of Vis, renowned for its untouched natural beauty and crystal-clear waters. Once you arrive, immerse yourself in the day by swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying water sports in the pristine bays. Later in the evening, unwind by dining at one of the waterfront restaurants, where you can savor the island’s delicious local cuisine, making for a perfect and relaxing end to your day.

Day 4 | Discover Korcula

Cruise to the island of Korcula, fenowned for its medieval old town and well-preserved traditional architecture. Once there, begin by exploring the charming narrow streets that lead to hidden squares, before visiting the impressive St. Mark’s Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. As you delve into the island’s fascinating history, don’t forget to learn about its legendary ties to Marco Polo. Later in the afternoon, indulge in a wine-tasting tour at one of Korcula’s local vineyards, where you can savor the renowned Korcula wines. Finally, conclude your day by docking at ACI Marina Korcula, ready to unwind in this serene coastal

Day 5 | Sail to Dubrovnik

Depart Korcula and sail to the iconic city of Dubrovnik. Upon arrival, begin your adventure with a guided tour of the ancient city walls, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Old Town and the sparkling Adriatic Sea. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the marble-paved Stradun, Dubrovnik’s vibrant main street, lined with cafes, boutiques, and stunning architecture. Finally, immerse yourself in the city’s rich history by visiting must-see landmarks like the Rector’s Palace and the Dubrovnik Cathedral, both offering a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past.

Day 6 | Relax in Mljet National Park

Cruise to Mljet National Park, a tranquil haven of lush forests and serene lakes. To start your adventure, take a leisurely walk or rent a bike, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the park’s breathtaking landscapes. In addition, make sure to visit the picturesque Benedictine monastery on the island of St. Mary, a peaceful retreat surrounded by calm waters. As the day unfolds, you can relax by swimming in the crystal-clear lakes, enjoying the serene atmosphere, and taking in the untouched beauty of this natural paradise.

Day 7 | Visit Rijeka

Set sail to Rijeka, a vibrant port city on the Adriatic coast. Begin your adventure with a visit to the historic Trsat Castle, which offers panoramic views of the city and beyond. Then, head to the impressive St. Vitus Cathedral, a stunning example of architectural beauty. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the bustling Korzo promenade, where you can soak in the lively atmosphere. Finally, indulge in delicious local cuisine at one of the waterfront restaurants, savoring the flavors of the region.

Day 8 | Return to Split

Depart Rijeka and set sail back to Split, savoring the final day aboard your luxury yacht. Along the way, enjoy the stunning coastal scenery as you relax on deck, allowing the gentle sea breeze to refresh you. Reflect on the incredible experiences and unforgettable moments from your yacht charter holiday. Finally, disembark in Split, bringing an end to this memorable journey.

Please note that this sample itinerary can be customized based on your preferences, weather conditions, and yacht charter availability.