Rijeka Tourist Attractions and Sightseeing

(Rijeka, Primorje Gorski Kotar, Kvarner, Croatia)

The mainly commercial and industrial city of Rijeka blends into the famous Opatija Riviera, as do the charming smaller towns in the hills and along the bay, giving a wide variety of tourist attractions and sites of interest to the visitor.

Rijeka itself has a mixture of impressive and historic buildings, including enough churches to justify its fame as a pilgrimage destination. The natural beauty surrounding the city complements the Old Quarter's pretty streets, grand buildings and architectural attractions. Tourists will find that the older part of the harbour is where many of the most appealing sights are located. However, if you are looking for sun and sand, then the Adriatic beaches around Rijeka may well tempt you away for the day, with a number being awarded a Blue Flag.

Capuchin Church of Our Lady of Lourdes (Crkva Gospe Lurdske / Kapucinska Crkva)

Address: Kapucinske Stube 5, Rijeka, Croatia, HR
Tel: +385 051 335 233
Dedicated on the 50th anniversary of the Lourdes miracle, this neo-Gothic church is one of the city highlights, regularly appearing on brochures and postcards. The facade is intricately ornamented and the interior contains frescoes by famous local artist, Romulo Venucci. Dating back to the beginning of the 20th century and located on the western side of the city centre, alongside both the Trg Zabica (Zabica Square) and the intercity bus station, the Capuchin Church of Our Lady of Lourdes ran into problems of a financial nature during its construction. It was not until St. Johanca arrived and proceeded to 'sweat' blood in front of the crowds that the donations flooded in, saving this project from ruin.
Open hours: daily - 08:00 to 12:00, 16:00 to 18:00
Admission: free

Trsat Castle (Gradina Trsat)

Address: Trsat / Frankopanski Trg, Rijeka, Croatia, HR
Tel: +385 051 217 714
Enjoying a scenic and rather elevated setting high above the city is the ancient Trsat Castle. The original building dates from the 13th century, although the castle has undergone some extensive renovations and additions over the centuries, with its latest upgrade taking place during the 19th century, when it was privately owned. The views from the cafe are stunning, while other notable onsite attractions include galleries at the mausoleum and in the dungeons. During the summer months, look out for the frequent open-air concerts and theatrical events.
Open hours: daily, May to October - 09:00 to 20:00; November to April - 09:00 to 17:00
Admission: charge, discounts available for students and children

Church of Our Lady of Trsat (Crkva Gospe Trsatske)

Address: Trsat / Frankopanski Trg, Rijeka, Croatia, HR
Tel: +385 051 452 900
Nestling under the ramparts of the castle is the ancient Church of Our Lady of Trsat. This lovely hilltop church has long been a famous pilgrimage destination attracting devout Marian Catholics in large numbers. Its revered and miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary is legendarily attributed to St. Luke and was given to the church in the 14th century by none other than the pope himself. Worth looking out for is the altar painting, the sacred art works housed in the treasury, and the attractive Baroque-style cloister.
Open hours: by prior arrangement
Admission: free

Petar Kruzic Stairway / Petar Druzic Stairway

Address: Titov Trg, Rijeka, Croatia, HR
Winding steeply through the Rjecina Gorge from the Krizaniceva Ulica / Titov Trg is the ancient pilgrims' stairway to the Church of Our Lady of Trsat. Built in 1531 by Captain Petar Kruzic (also often referred to as Petar Druzic), its final stretch was added later. Along the steep paths are little chapels dedicated to the saints, serving as resting places for the devout. For the slightly less energetic, there is a bus service from the city centre to the church.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

Synagogue (Sinagoga)

Address: Filipoviceva Ulica 9, Rijeka, Croatia, HR
Tel: +385 051 425 156
The Rijeka Synagogue and those in Dubrovnik and Split all combine to make the three remaining Jewish houses of worship in Croatia. Many more once existed, however, following the WWII bombing literally dozens of Croatian synagogues were completely destroyed. Simple architectural lines showing a Mediterranean influence and an absence of extravagant exterior decoration distinguish this structure. The interior is traditionally divided, with separate entrances for men and women.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

Jadran Building / Adria Palace (Jadran Zgrada / Palaca Adria)

Address: Rijeka, Croatia, HR
This extravagant fantasy of a building, completed in 1897, is the commercial headquarters of a major Croatian shipping company. Facing both the port and Jadran Square, the Jadran Building is a truly massive structure boasting columns, pillars and sculptures on its monumental High-Renaissance frontages. The sculptured images represent the four corners of the earth, while symbolised mariners are perched atop the columns.
Open hours: Monday to Friday - 09:00 to 17:00
Admission: free