How to Get Around Opatija and Surroundings Like a Local: Tips for Public Transport, Walking, and Vehicle Rental

Are you planning to explore this enchanting area like a real local? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re wandering through historic city centers, discovering secluded beaches, or enjoying scenic sea views, Opatija offers great transport options to enhance your experience. In this blog, you will find everything you need to navigate Opatija and its surroundings more easily using various means of transport.

Public transportation tips

Getting around Opatija is effortless thanks to its efficient public transportation system. The local bus network operates frequently and reaches most parts of the city as well as its outskirts.The local transport company Autotrolej operates many routes in the Rijeka and Opatija area, but if you are in the Opatija Riviera, the most useful routes for you will be 32-32A, 34-37, 35, and 36. It depends on which part of the Opatija Riviera you are in, but the links will help you reach your desired location – whether it’s a beach, restaurant, park, hotel, the center, or the lungomare. The ride on route 32-32A is very interesting because you travel along the coastline the entire way. Be careful, as the bus schedules vary depending on weekdays, weekends, and holidays.

Bus tickets are conveniently available for purchase at kiosks across Opatija and the surrounding area, or they can be bought directly from the drivers, but only with cash. For those who would like to use public buses extensively, consider purchasing daily or weekly passes. These passes provide unlimited rides and can be a cost-effective way to travel throughout the town.

Walking and cycling routes

Exploring on foot or by bike is arguably one of the best ways to truly soak in the beauty of Opatija and its surroundings. There are two must-visit paths in this area that we already mentioned in our previous blog: the Carmen Sylva Forest Trail and the breathtaking Lungomare promenade. Famous Lungomare promenade connects Opatija with neighboring towns Lovran and Volosko, providing stunning views of the Adriatic Sea while meandering through lush parks and past grand historic villas.

For cycling enthusiasts seeking adventure, Učka Nature Park offers more challenging trails that wind through mountainous terrains, offering panoramic vistas over Croatia’s scenic coastal cities and crystal-clear sea. These are the perfect places where you can spend an unforgettable day.

Renting a car or scooter

For those craving independence and flexibility in their travels, renting a car or scooter in Opatija is an excellent option. With several rental agencies available at your disposal, you can effortlessly find what suits your needs best. Arming yourself with a vehicle provides an opportunity to venture beyond city limits and explore places like Rijeka or delve into hidden gems on the Istrian peninsula at your preferred pace.

Remember, it’s advisable to book in advance if you’re planning to rent during peak tourist seasons like summer or winter time. Always conduct a thorough check for any pre-existing damage on your rental vehicle before heading out on your journey.

Local taxi services

For convenient travel without driving yourself and saving time, Opatija’s plentiful taxi services can provide just what you need. You’ll find taxis stationed throughout crucial hubs like near major hotels and bus stations within both towns. You can call the local Halo Taxi at +385 51 704 100, and the dispatcher will connect you with the nearest and fastest taxi driver.

You can also use the Uber taxi app, which allows you to easily book a ride directly from your smartphone. While taxis are generally safe and metered here, note that keeping some cash on hand could prove useful, as not all cabs accept card payments yet.

Using ferries and boats

Opatija being located along Croatia’s magnificent coastline offers travelers numerous opportunities for maritime adventures via ferries or other boat services! Regular boat tours take visitors on beautiful waters to stunning island destinations like Krk or Cres, especially during the summer. These trips offer unforgettable experiences, including scenic sea views and the joy of exploring different islands. The largest Croatian passenger shipping company is Jadrolinija. You can visit their website to check out their fast ferry line, which connects the islands of Kvarner and sails from Rijeka every day.

If you’re interested in customizing your trips, renting smaller boats with private tours could make your experience even more special and memorable. We would be happy to recommend Marea Charter – this agency offers boat charter services with options for daily and weekly rentals, based in Ičići. They operate throughout the entire area of Opatija, Lovran, Mošćenička Draga, and across the central part of Kvarner. Don’t forget though–always verify available schedules beforehand particularly outside summer seasons when offerings might vary significantly!

Opatija and its surrounding areas offer a variety of transportation options that allow visitors to explore the region like a local. Whether you prefer public transport, walking, cycling, or renting a vehicle, there’s a mode of travel to suit every need. Whichever method you choose, the stunning landscapes, historic sites, and scenic views await you.