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Expat Exchange - The Essential Guide to Opatija 2024
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The Essential Guide to Opatija

By Betsy Burlingame

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

Summary: Our Guide to Opatija: Top Attractions, Culinary Hotspots, Nightlife, and More. Plus, Tips on Making Connections with the Locals and Finding Fun Recreational Activities

Welcome to Opatija! If you're planning to move to Opatija, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Opatija has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Opatija.

Opatija, a charming coastal town in Croatia, is a treasure trove of attractions for both tourists and locals. The town is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful parks. One of the most iconic landmarks in Opatija is the Maiden with the Seagull, a statue located on a promontory by the sea. It has become a symbol of the town and offers a fantastic photo opportunity. The Saint James Park, located in the heart of the town, is a beautiful green oasis with a variety of plant species and a music pavilion. The park is also home to the Church of St. James, a Benedictine monastery that dates back to the 15th century.

The Lungomare, a 12-kilometer long coastal promenade, offers breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea and is perfect for leisurely walks. Villa Angiolina, a historic building surrounded by a beautiful park, is another must-visit. It houses the Croatian Museum of Tourism, where visitors can learn about the history of tourism in the region. For art lovers, the Juraj Šporer Art Pavilion hosts a variety of exhibitions throughout the year.

The restaurant and nightlife scene in Opatija is vibrant and diverse, offering something for everyone. One of the most popular restaurants in the town is Bevanda, known for its exquisite seafood dishes and an impressive selection of wines. The restaurant offers stunning sea views and is perfect for a romantic dinner. Ruzmarin is another top-rated restaurant, offering a mix of traditional Croatian and international cuisine. The restaurant is located in a beautiful old villa and has a charming terrace.

For those looking to enjoy the nightlife, Hemingway Bar is a popular choice. This stylish bar offers a wide range of cocktails and often hosts live music performances. Another popular spot is the Colosseum Casino, where visitors can try their luck at a variety of games or enjoy a drink at the bar. The Open Air Theatre is also a great place to spend an evening, with a variety of concerts and performances taking place throughout the summer.

Recreational activities in Opatija are centered around the beautiful natural surroundings. The town is a popular destination for hiking and cycling, with numerous trails offering stunning views of the sea and the surrounding countryside. The U?ka Nature Park, located just a short drive from the town, is a great place for outdoor activities. The park offers a variety of trails for hiking and mountain biking, as well as opportunities for bird watching and nature photography.

Water sports are also popular in Opatija, with several companies offering boat rentals, diving trips, and fishing excursions. The Marina Admiral is a popular spot for boating and yachting, while the Opatija Diving Center offers diving courses and excursions for all levels. For those looking to relax and unwind, the town's beautiful beaches, such as Slatina Beach and Tomasevac Beach, are perfect for sunbathing and swimming.

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SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
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Insider Tips from Expats in Opatija: Making the Most of Life and Connections

SJB GlobalSJB Global
Connect

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Connect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

SJB GlobalSJB Global
Connect

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Connect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


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