The Kvarner Riviera is located next to Istria (along the Croatian coast) and is centred around the city of Rijeka, the busiest port on the Adriatic. The most famous resort in this area is Opatija, with Crikvenica, Kraljevica, and Novi Vinodolski also being popular. The islands of Krk, Losinj, Cres and Rab are also part of the Kvarner region.
The Kvarner Riviera has a long association with tourism. Some resorts – especially Opatija and Crikvenica – emerged as popular holiday destinations in the late 19th century. Opatija in particular was an upmarket resort visited by many well-to-do holidaymakers, including various European royal family members. It is still considered something of an upmarket resort today, as evidenced by the number of five-star hotels it is home to.
The Kvarner Region has been chosen as a European Region of Gastronomy for 2026.
For more information about the Kvarner Riviera and its destinations and resorts, see our special pages below:
- Getting to the Kvarner Riviera
Information on the best way of getting to this part of Croatia by plane, train, bus and boat
Getting to and from Rijeka Airport
How best to transfer to and from the main airport in this region - Rijeka
What to see and do in the main city in the Kvarner Riviera - Opatija
Croatia’s “grand dame” resort, the town retains much of the charm that has attracted tourists since the late 19th century - Crikvenica
A smaller resort than Opatija, but still a popular holiday destination with excellent amenities - Novi Vinodolski
Another small holiday resort, with a surprising history - Events in the Kvarner Riviera
Check out the annual events in the Kvarner region - Accommodation in the Kvarner Riviera
Our guide to hotels and private accommodation in this part of Croatia - Map of Rijeka
A searchable, scrollable and zoomable map of the main city in the Kvarner Riviera, Rijeka
Islands in the Kvarner Riviera
As we’ve mentioned, a number of islands are also located in this region of Croatia. Check out our special sections on Krk, Losinj, Cres, Rab and Susak.
Additional info
For more info on the whole area, check out the Kvarner County Tourism Office website.