Kvarner Gulf: Croatia's Island Paradise
Explore Croatia's Kvarner Gulf: Islands, history, and stunning Adriatic beauty await in this captivating destination.
The Kvarner Gulf, nestled in the northern Adriatic Sea between the Istrian Peninsula and the Croatian mainland, is a stunning bay dotted with islands and rich in history. Known for its deep waters and strategic location connecting the Mediterranean and Central Europe, it offers a blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty.
A brief summary to Kvarner Gulf
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Local tips
- Visit during the shoulder seasons (late spring and early fall) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
- Try local seafood dishes at the waterfront restaurants for an authentic culinary experience.
- Explore nearby islands by taking a ferry for a day trip.
- Bring your camera – the sunset views over the gulf are breathtaking and unforgettable.
- Engage with local guides for a deeper understanding of the region's history and ecology.
Getting There
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Ferry
The primary way to navigate the Kvarner Gulf and its islands is by ferry. Jadrolinija is the main ferry operator, offering connections from Rijeka and other coastal towns to various islands. From Rijeka, ferries depart regularly to destinations like Rab, Cres, and Lošinj. A ferry from Rijeka to Rab typically costs between €5 and €7 and takes approximately 2 hours. Island hopping is common, with ferries connecting the islands themselves. For example, you can travel from Cres to Lošinj by ferry. Ticket prices vary depending on the route and distance. Check the Jadrolinija website for the most up-to-date schedules and fares.
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Public Transport
Rijeka serves as the transport hub for the Kvarner Gulf. From Rijeka's main bus terminal, you can find bus connections to various coastal towns and cities within the region. Local buses connect towns along the coast. For example, traveling from Rijeka to Opatija takes approximately 15 minutes by car or local bus. Bus tickets are relatively inexpensive, with short trips costing a few euros. Keep in mind that bus schedules may vary, so it's best to check the timetables in advance.
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Car
Driving is a convenient way to explore the mainland coast of the Kvarner Gulf. The main road D8 runs along the coast, connecting Rijeka with other towns like Opatija and Crikvenica. Tolls may apply on certain highways, such as the A7 towards Rijeka. Parking is available in most towns, but it can be limited, especially during peak season. In Rijeka, parking is available but may require payment depending on the location. Some apartments offer free parking. A full tank of petrol costs approximately €50.
Discover more about Kvarner Gulf
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kvarner Gulf
0.0 km
Unveil the serene splendor of Kvarner Gulf, a Croatian gem offering stunning coastlines, vibrant marine life, and charming towns perfect for all travelers.
Beach Stara Baska
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Uvala Bracol
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Plaža Punta Debij
12.2 km
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Dubac beach
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St. Lucia's Church
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Punta Di Galetto beach
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Plitvice Lakes by Boat&Bus from Island Krk
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BEST IN KRK
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Krk boat tours Kapetan Nemo & Mali pin excursions
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BOAT TOURS - EXCURSIONS KRK
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Frankopan Castle
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Крк старый град
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City of Krk
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Krk grad povijesti i kulture Zidine/Town Walls
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Unmissable attractions to see
Golden Bay Beach
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Pokrive zaljev - sidrište
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Plaża Borków
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Love Cave
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Plaža - Mali Pečen
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Stonehenge (Divespot)
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Oprna mini beach
8.7 km
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Old bauxite mine "Stara Baška"
8.7 km
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Beach of Romantik
8.9 km
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Oprna Bay
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Lighthouse Tranjevo (cape Negrit)
9.0 km
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Dolina kamenih natpisa
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Church of St. Nicholas (remains)
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Mini Strand beach
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Stara Baska Beach
9.2 km
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Essential places to dine
Restaurant Konobe
10.5 km
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Restaurant Arta
12.0 km
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Konoba Ankora
12.4 km
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Buka
12.6 km
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K Ribaru
12.6 km
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Vista Restaurant by Zlatni Zalaz
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Beach Bar Cristallo
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Restaurant Karaka
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Gonar Restaurant
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Restaurant More
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Konoba Marenda
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Hotel-Restaurant Pivac
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Restoran Ježevac
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Street Food Mezzino Krk
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Olíva Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Dolac
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Store In Camp
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Trgovina Krk d.d.
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Mlinar Camp Pila Punat
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SABINA
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Gift stall #2
13.3 km
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LITO MARKET
13.6 km
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Vindija trgovina
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House wine Ivan Katunar
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TIN ART GIFT SHOP PUNAT, OTOK KRK
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Konzum
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Vinoteka PZ Vrbnik - Krk
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Sherry 's Honey Store
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Ko-Ba d.o.o.
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Arca Noa
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Beach bar Škrila
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Haise Bar
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Beach bar ORAO
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Pocco Locco
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Beach bar Plav
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Beach Bar Karaka
13.3 km
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Lungo mare splash beach bar
13.4 km
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Jezevac Beach Bar
13.5 km
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Beach Bar Politin
13.6 km
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Beach Bar -LUNA- Baška
13.7 km
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Kalle
13.8 km
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Varadero Beach Bar
13.9 km
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Beach Bar Bamboocho
14.1 km
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Caffe bar Bogart
14.1 km
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King’s Caffe Krk
14.1 km
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