Sightseeing in Rijeka - what to see. Complete travel guide

The largest port city in Croatia and a major transportation center, Rijeka is also a popular tourist area.

The central part of the city, which is called Korzo, is the most notable in Rijeka. There is absolutely no transport here and all streets are pedestrians only. During your walk in this city you will be able to see most popular shops and restaurants, visit new movie theaters, or simply relax in a park. One of the most colorful markets of the city is also located here. Visitors usually adore traditional gifts of Rijeka, which the locals call moric. These are small items depicting heads of Moor made of silver. These may be small brooches, pendants or earrings. Many interesting legends are associated with this kind of souvenir and every trader or a local resident will gladly tell you a couple of them.

There are also several historical attractions in the city. They are mostly located in the so-called Old Town. The City Tower, which has been standing here since ancient times, is the symbolic entrance to the Old Town. It is decorated with images of the great Austrian Emperors Charles VI and Leopold I. Don’t forget to visit Trsat Castle as this is one of the most significant architectural complexes of Rijeka. The castle is located on one of the highest hills of the city. After the excursion in the castle you can go to the observation area and enjoy the beautiful panorama of the city. The construction of the castle took place in the 13th century. In order to reach the entrance to the castle from the foot of the hill, visitors will need to pass 538 steps of steep stairs. Those tourists, who wish to make the excursion more comfortable, can use a funicular lift. Besides the beautiful castle, which is built in the late Gothic style, the hill is the location of Church of Trsat Mother of God and Franciscan Monastery. These are the most important religious sights of Rijeka.

In the neighbourhood is located Risnjak National Park which is considered one of the most beautiful in Croatia. The park was founded in 1953 and initially had an area of about 30 sq. km. Nowadays, it's twice as large. They organize walking tours there, during which you can admire the majestic oaks, plane trees, and see rare Mediterranean plants. The wildlife of the reserve is very rich. A small hotel and restaurant is open on its territory for tourists. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

On one of the streets of the historic district is a beautiful St. Vitus Cathedral, whose history originates in 1638. Its construction began on the site of the destroyed old church and lasted more than a hundred years. The rich design of the cathedral was greatly influenced by the Countess Ursula Tankhausen. She made her own investments in the construction. Now, visitors can admire the beautiful altar of the late 17th century, skilful sculptures and an ancient crucifix of the 13th century. Since the 18th century, the appearance of the church remained unchanged.

You can admire exciting historical artifacts at the Rijeka City Museum. Its opening was held relatively recently, in 1994. The museum stores historical documents and exhibits devoted to various periods of its development. Of special value is a collection of antique jewelry. All these ornaments once belonged to famous townspeople. A collection of old theatrical costumes, which were previously used in the local theater is interesting, as well.

The oldest cultural institution in the city is the Natural History Museum. It was founded in 1876. However, the museum became available for public access much later, in 1945. The museum occupies a beautiful old mansion. A significant part of its exposition is dedicated to the inhabitants of the Adriatic Sea, as well as its coast. In a separate room, paleontological artifacts discovered during exploration of local caves are presented. Several museum halls are allocated for temporary exhibitions. A small aquarium and a zoo operate on its territory.