Picturesque Opatija & Moscenice

OVERVIEW

Visit the elegant seaside city of Opatija and hilltop Moscenice, a medieval town whose stone buildings and protective walls were designed to ward off invaders. After departing from the pier, you will enjoy a picturesque drive along the northernmost part of the Adriatic Sea to Opatija. Its idyllic setting and gentle sea breezes have long attracted vacationers and by the mid-1800s numerous health resorts began to appear on the coast. In 1889, Opatija was officially declared a “climatic health resort,” attracting royalty and artists such as James Joyce and Giacomo Puccini. Opatija remains wonderfully enticing, as you will discover during a guided walk that may include a visit to Villa Angiolina. Credited as the building that began the city’s tourist epoch, the former health resort is surrounded by a diverse botanical park. You might also stroll a section of the Lungomare, a coastal promenade that winds past extraordinary examples of Belle Epoque architecture and important Croatian monuments. Farther down the coast, you will find the medieval hilltop town of Moscenice. While walking along its narrow stone-paved streets, you might spot the family crest of the Habsburgs above the ancient town gate and churches such as St. Bartol, a 17th-century gem. There is also a well-preserved loggia with a plaque noting the date of its last renovation: 1624. Following your guided walk, you will pause at a restaurant in town to sample delicacies that may include locally produced ham and cheese and fresh-baked bread. Afterwards, you will return to the pier.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Learn how exquisite Opatija became known as "a climatic health resort" that attracted artists and royalty.
• Survey sights that might include Villa Angiolina, credited with launching Opatija’s resort craze, or the Lungomare promenade and its stunning Belle Epoque architecture.
• Spot the Habsburg family crest on medieval Moscenice’s gates and enter the town’s 17th-century St. Bartol church.
• Savor mouthwatering delicacies like locally produced ham, cheese and fresh-baked bread.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.