Travel to Croatia

Day 3 Quarto d'Altino - Rijeka - Slunj (361 km.)

(in 213 Km.) Rijeka: Rijeka, Croatia’s third-largest city and an important port, has a fascinating history shaped by its strategic location on the Adriatic Sea. Its story begins in Roman times when it was known as Tarsatica, a settlement integral to trade and defense. Over the centuries, Rijeka has been influenced by various rulers, including the Venetians, Austro-Hungarians, and Italians, leaving a rich cultural and architectural heritage. Today, Rijeka is a lively city that blends its maritime tradition with vibrant urban life, offering visitors a unique mix of history and modernity.

Our visit starts at the Capuchin Church of Our Lady of Lourdes, a striking Neo-Gothic building that stands out for its elaborate facade and beautiful stained-glass windows. Built in the early 20th century, the church is an important spiritual center for the city’s residents. Its location on a hill provides a great vantage point to admire the surrounding cityscape. The peaceful atmosphere of the church and its interior make it an ideal place to begin our exploration of Rijeka.

Next, we head to Korzo, Rijeka’s main pedestrian street and the heart of the city. Lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, it’s always bustling with activity. As we stroll along Korzo, we reach the Municipal Tower, one of the most recognizable landmarks of Rijeka. This Baroque-style clock tower once served as the main entrance to the city. Its colorful facade and prominent clock make it a popular spot for photos. From here, we step into the nearby Ivan Kobler Square, a charming space named after the historian and writer. The square features a picturesque fountain and is surrounded by beautiful historic buildings.

Continuing our walk, we arrive at the Rijeka Market, a lively area filled with stalls offering fresh produce, seafood, and local specialties. The market has been an essential part of daily life in Rijeka for centuries, and its vibrant atmosphere reflects the city’s cultural diversity. Nearby, the elegant Palazzo Modello captures our attention with its ornate design. This 19th-century building, once home to various cultural organizations, now stands as a symbol of Rijeka’s architectural grandeur. A short walk from here brings us to the Croatian National Theatre Ivan pl. Zajc, an iconic building known for its stunning facade and world-class performances.

Our route continues with a visit to the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, notable for its leaning bell tower, which gives it a unique character. This historic church, dating back to the Middle Ages, is a testament to Rijeka’s enduring faith and architectural ingenuity. From there, we make our way to the Cathedral of St. Vitus, a Baroque gem dedicated to the city’s patron saint. The cathedral’s circular design and intricate interior decorations are truly captivating. Nearby, we find the Roman Arch, a well-preserved remnant of Tarsatica, and the Principia of Tarsatica, an archaeological site offering a glimpse into Rijeka’s Roman past.

We conclude our tour by walking through the Rijeka Tunnel, a unique underground passage that runs beneath the city. Built during World War II as a shelter, the tunnel now serves as a pedestrian route and a fascinating reminder of Rijeka’s more recent history. Before leaving, it’s worth mentioning that although we didn’t visit it on this trip, the Trsat Castle is one of Rijeka’s most famous attractions. Perched on a hill overlooking the city, the castle offers breathtaking views and a deeper dive into the city’s medieval history. Rijeka’s blend of historical landmarks, vibrant streets, and cultural charm makes it a city worth exploring at every turn.

After our exploration of Rijeka, we take a moment to enjoy a quintessential Croatian experience: the beach. After parking our car at the Tower Center Mall, we head to Glavanovo Beach, a small yet charming pebble beach located just a short drive away from Rijeka. Nestled along the Adriatic coast, Glavanovo offers crystal-clear waters and a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to unwind before diving into the city’s history. The beach is surrounded by rocky cliffs and shaded by trees, providing both privacy and natural beauty. Whether taking a refreshing swim or simply relaxing by the shore, Glavanovo gives us a perfect introduction to the stunning coastline that Croatia is known for.

(in 148 Km.) Slunj: We are going to sleep in this inland town near the Plitvice Lakes.