What to Do in Rijeka – A Cultural and Coastal Guide

If you are wondering what to do in Rijeka, you are in the right place. This historic city, once known as Fiume or Flumen Sancti Viti, lies at the very end of the Adriatic Sea, where the coastline meets the beautiful Preluk Bay.

Preluk was once famous for tuna fishing and is today known for windsurfing and breathtaking sunsets. From Preluk to Žurkovo, Rijeka’s coastline stretches along scenic seaside promenades that invite you to walk, relax and enjoy open views of the Adriatic.

One promenade runs from Preluk to the Hilton Beach Resort Costa Bella and extends for about 1.5 kilometres. Another leads from Pećine toward Kostrena, offering elegant villas on one side and sweeping sea views toward Opatija on the other. For lovers of relaxed coastal walks, this is one of the most pleasant things to do in Rijeka.

Stroll Along Korzo and Discover the Old Town

No visit to Rijeka is complete without a walk along Korzo, the city’s lively main promenade. Here, cafés, historic façades and local life blend together in a charming Mediterranean atmosphere.

Just behind Korzo lies Dolac Street, where you can admire impressive historic buildings such as the Whitehead Palace (Casa Veneziana) and other elegant 19th-century residences. This part of Rijeka reflects the city’s rich Austro-Hungarian heritage.

From Dolac, you can walk through the 300-metre underground tunnel beneath the city centre. Originally built for military purposes, the tunnel now connects you directly to one of Rijeka’s most important landmarks.

Visit St. Vitus Cathedral and the City Tower

At the end of the tunnel, you will arrive near St. Vitus Cathedral, a remarkable round Baroque church inspired by Venetian architecture. Inside, you can see a wooden crucifix dating back to the 13th century — a precious piece of sacred art and history.

A short walk away stands the historic Rijeka City Tower. Look closely at the clock and the detailed coats of arms. The double-headed eagle symbol tells a fascinating story about Rijeka’s past and its connection to the Habsburg Empire. These small details reveal how complex and multicultural the city’s history truly is.

If you would like to pause for coffee, visit the traditional café Slon, known for its excellent cakes and its historical connection to Rijeka’s once-famous chocolate production.

Discover Rijeka’s Maritime History

Walking down toward the harbour, you reach Kobler Square, once the city’s main marketplace. Continue toward the waterfront and you will discover Rijeka’s long maritime tradition.

The harbour was originally built for trade and wooden ships, later serving steamships and transatlantic liners. One of the most famous vessels connected to Rijeka was the Carpathia of the Cunard Line, known for rescuing survivors of the Titanic. From Rijeka, many emigrants once departed for New York in search of a new life.

Today, the harbour looks different, but the sea remains central to the city’s identity.

Visit Trsat Castle and the Sanctuary

For panoramic views over the Kvarner Bay, take the stairs up to Trsat Castle. This historic fortress offers one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the region. From here, you can see the city, the harbour and the surrounding islands.

Nearby stands the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Trsat, one of Croatia’s most important pilgrimage sites. The peaceful atmosphere and cultural significance make this area a meaningful stop during your visit.

Exploring Trsat is truly one of the best things to do in Rijeka, especially for those who appreciate history, architecture and spectacular views.

Experience Rijeka from the Sea

While walking through the old town and visiting historic landmarks is essential, one of the most memorable ways to experience Rijeka is from the sea.

From the water, you gain a completely different perspective of the coastline, the villas, the harbour and the surrounding landscapes. Private boat tours along the Riviera allow you to explore hidden bays, enjoy quiet swimming spots and admire the scenery in comfort.

For small groups of up to 12 guests, exclusive boat experiences can even be arranged directly from Rijeka. With a professional guide on board, you can learn more about the city’s colourful past and maritime heritage while enjoying a relaxed journey along the Adriatic — much like visitors did more than a century ago.

Whether you prefer cultural exploration, scenic walks, historic landmarks or a refined coastal escape, Rijeka offers a rich and authentic experience at the heart of the Kvarner region.