Sightseeing in Opatija - what to see. Complete travel guide

This city is one of the most popular resorts in Croatia. Already in the beginning of the last century this place attracted tourists from Europe. Mild climate, picturesque nature and large choice of entertainments are available here 12 months a year. The city’s name can be literally translated from Latin as "monastery". The reason for that is in the fact first settlements were founded around the Benedictine monastery built in the 15th century. Starting from the middle of the 19th century rich and noble people of Europe began building first villas and townhouses in Opatija. Steadily the city became the place of vacation of kings and their families, as well as many artists. Nowadays almost every villa and every old house are connected with the names of great rulers and nobles.

The city is located at the foot of Učka Mountain, the slopes of which have long been attracting winter sports fans. The ski season opens here in late November and lasts until mid-March. The mountain defends Opatija from cold winds, so the climate here is surprisingly mild. Such windless weather is especially loved by fans of fishing. The best places for fishing are the following areas - Lovran, Icici, Moshenicheska Draga, Veprinats and Kastav.

We simply cannot fail to mention high level of service and excellent modern tourist resorts. The choice of hotels in Opatija is truly great. Here you will find either historic buildings or new constructions. However, they all, without any exception, are equipped according to the latest technologies and meet the needs of most hard-to-please guests. In the coastal zone you will find best restaurants where you are welcome to try traditional European dishes, as well as gourmet Mexican and Oriental cuisine. Many restaurants have outdoor terraces which are used to conduct musical evenings, concerts and performances. If you are not indifferent to picturesque nature and romantic quiet rest, then Opatija will perfectly suit you. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

On one of the historic streets of Opatija, you'll find the beautiful 15th-century Church of St. James, which is a vivid monument of medieval architecture. Today the church is interesting for its religious artifacts - some of them date back more than 500 years. In recent years, the church often hosts chamber music concerts.

Another beautiful monument of architecture is Villa Angiolina built in the middle of the 19th century by the famous aristocrat Iginio Scarpa. Later, the luxurious villa was converted into a sanatorium where many world celebrities received treatment. Today, the luxurious villa with a delicate pink-colored facade operates as a Museum of Tourism. It offers an interesting exposition devoted to the history of the resort development. The most unusual collection presented in the museum is the one displaying swimsuits. After a tour of the old villa, you can stroll around a beautiful surrounding garden. In the warm season, it is always decorated with magnificent landscapes. Several beautiful ancient trees have been preserved in the garden.

Be sure to visit the Church of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which is easily recognizable thanks to an unusual green-colored dome. The construction of the church began in 1906, but it was not yet completed by the beginning of the First World War. In the war years, the unfinished church building was used as a camp for mules. Subsequently, the construction was continued only in 1920. Today the beautiful church is interesting with its magnificent murals created by the famous Slovenian artist Tone Král.

The favorite walking place for local residents and guests of the resort is the Lungomare - a coastal promenade with a length of about 12 km. There are many popular restaurants, shops and entertainment facilities on the waterfront. Here you can also see a lot of old luxurious mansions, some of which are converted into hotels.

One of the main symbols of the city is a sculpture called "The Girl with a Seagull". This sculpture was installed on the rocks off the coast more than 50 years ago. The monument is shrouded in many romantic stories and legends. It often serves as a meeting place for lovers.