Planning your 2026 travel itinerary? Skyscanner has thrust a lesser-known Croatian city into the spotlight.
Rijeka, a port city in Kvarner Bay, is known as a gateway to Croatia’s idyllic islands. With sparkling cobalt waters, rich history, and a vibrant arts scene, it was named the 2020 European Capital of Culture.
Interest in Rijeka — Croatia’s third-largest city — has surged by 75%, according to Skyscanner. The travel platform has called it a ‘rising star on the Adriatic,’ and a ‘quieter alternative’ to the country’s more popular names, like Dubrovnik and Split.
And with Rijeka now a stop on the new Adriatic Express train, a Polish Railways sleeper service that links Warsaw and the Croatian coast, there’s never been a better time to visit.
Here’s everything you should do in Rijeka, plus how to get there and the best time to visit.
Things to do in Rijeka
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Rijeka offers a lovely blend of history, culture, and coastal charm.
Dee Momi, a superyacht worker who has spent time there, tells Metro it’s a buzzy city often overlooked by tourists.
Her top recommendation is the medieval Trsat Castle, one of the oldest fortifications on the Croatian Coast, and the city’s most famous architectural landmark. Built in the 13th century, it enjoys sweeping views over the Rječina River and is a good place to get your bearings.
Best of all, entry is free. Walk the ancient stone walls and climb the towers (where you’ll get stunning panoramic views of Rijeka and the Adriatic Sea), then grab a coffee at the cosy cafe within the castle walls.
Elsewhere, the lively Korzo Promenade is the social heart of Rijeka, and is where you’ll find its iconic Clock Tower. Dee says the promenade makes the perfect backdrop for a stroll and people-watching.
It’s also a short walk from the historic Old Town, where narrow cobblestone streets wind through Roman ruins, Austro-Hungarian architecture, and Baroque buildings like the Town Hall.
History lovers should check out the Rijeka Tunnel next to the Cathedral of St. Vitu. The former World War Two underground air raid network extends beneath the Old Town, and can be explored for just €1.50 (£1.32).
If you’ve got time, Dee also recommends the city’s maritime museums.
Rijeka is the birthplace of Croatian punk and still has excellent live music venues. During the late 1970s, when the country was part of Yugoslavia, local musicians were instrumental in the independence movement, using art to challenge the communist government.
Today, venues like Crkva (one of Rijeka’s most popular house and techno nightclubs) and Tunel Music Bar (a unique ruin bar below the railway) host the best new and established acts the city has to offer.
If you time your visit right, you could catch Rijeka Summer Nights, Rijeka’s much-loved inner-city festival.
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Iconic city
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Hidden gem
Taking place in June and July, the programme features Croatian and international artists. While some events are free, venues like Trsat Castle command entry fees between €10 and €20 (£8.70/£17.50).
Rijeka is also a hive of contemporary art. Many former industrial complexes have been transformed into trendy art spaces.
For example, Filodrammatica Gallery in downtown Rijeka offers free admission and hosts exhibitions and film nights.
Kružna Street is known for its vibrant street art, while the old Paper Factory Hartera was once home to an annual electronica music festival.
Gateway to the islands
Many tourists take day trips from Rijeka to the nearby islands and seaside resorts (which Dee also recommends), like Krk Island and Opatija.
The latter is a 30-minute coastal drive, where you’ll find gorgeous beaches, majestic mansions, and plenty of green space.
The former is Croatia’s largest island, a unique blend of cultural heritage deeply rooted in the influences of Illyrian, Roman, Venetian, and Austro-Hungarian influences.
The drive (connected to the mainland by the Krk Bridge) takes around 50 minutes.
Rijeka is also a short drive away from other beautiful European countries, including Slovenia and Italy.
Food and drink in Rijeka
Rijeka has an exciting food scene that combines traditional Croatian flavours with Italian influences.
Hearty meats, including pork, beef and poultry, are staples, while street food dishes like ćevapi (skinless, finger-sized grilled sausages) are popular.
For Dee, the local food scene is all about fresh seafood and traditional Croatian pastries, such as Krostule (sweet knots) and Fritule (doughnuts).
For something more upmarket, the city has a choice of eight Michelin restaurants. Hidden Wine Bistro is one of them, where diners can indulge in Mediterranean flavours alongside Croatian and international wines.
This fine dining won’t break the bank, either: Croatian beef steak with spinach costs €35 (£30), while mackerel with onions costs €21 (£18).
How to get to Rijeka from the UK
You can fly directly to Rijeka from the UK. June and July are the cheapest months on Skyscanner, with flights starting from £36 one way.
On Wednesday, June 3, Metro found a direct Ryanair flight from London Stansted for £36.
A month later, on Wednesday, July 1, the same flight is available. The journey time is two hours and 10 minutes.
When to visit Rijeka
If you’re after good weather but fewer crowds, May, June and September are the best months to visit. The temperature peaks between 22°C and 26°C, ideal for sightseeing.
July and August are the peak summer months, with highs of 29°C. Therefore, expect more crowds and heightened prices.
Don’t mind the cooler weather? Go between January and March to experience Rijeka Carnival, Croatia’s largest and most famous carnival.
In temperatures of 9°C to 12°C, locals host parades, dress up in costumes and perform traditional music to welcome Lent.
Overall, Dee says that ‘Rijeka feels like a city with a strong local identity, rich history and a relaxed charm that’s a real contrast to the more tourist-heavy Croatian destinations.’
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