After enjoying all the things to do in Crikvenica, from its beautiful beaches to scenic walks along the Adriatic coast, day trips from Crikvenica open up a world of exploration within the stunning region of Croatia. These excursions allow you to discover hidden gems, from historic towns to breathtaking national parks, extending your adventure beyond this charming seaside town.
Venturing out from Crikvenica, you’re introduced to a wider array of things to do in Croatia, such as wandering through the ancient streets of Rijeka, exploring the lush landscapes of Plitvice Lakes National Park, or island-hopping in the Kvarner Gulf. Each journey offers a glimpse into Croatia’s diverse culture, history, and natural beauty.
Choosing where to stay in Crikvenica plays a crucial role in how you experience both the town and its surroundings. A strategically located accommodation not only puts you close to Crikvenica’s attractions but also offers convenient access to start your day trips, ensuring a seamless blend of relaxation and adventure.
Discover Best Day Trips from Crikvenica, Croatia
1. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its stunning terraced lakes connected by beautiful waterfalls. The park offers numerous walkways and hiking trails for an immersive nature experience.
Distance: Approximately 150 km
Travel Time: About 2.5 to 3 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Stunning terraced lakes, beautiful waterfalls, walkways, and hiking trails
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Adult Ticket: €20-€40 (depending on season)
- Child Ticket: €7-€15 (depending on season)
Budget: Approximately €50-€80 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Veliki Slap Waterfall, Kozjak Lake
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable hiking shoes and arrive early to avoid the crowds, especially during the summer months.
2. Krk Island, Croatia

Krk Island, connected to the mainland by a bridge, is known for its diverse landscapes, historical towns, and beautiful beaches. Don’t miss visiting the old town of Krk and the picturesque village of Vrbnik.
Distance: Approximately 25 km
Travel Time: About 30 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Diverse landscapes, historical towns, beautiful beaches, old town of Krk, Vrbnik village
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Free (for general island access)
Budget: Approximately €30-€60 (including transportation, food, and optional activities)
Scenic Spots: Baska Beach, Vrbnik Cliffs
Travel Tip: Try the local Žlahtina wine in Vrbnik, which is unique to the island.
3. Istria Peninsula, Croatia

The Istria Peninsula is renowned for its Italian-influenced cuisine, truffles, and charming hilltop towns like Motovun and Rovinj. It’s a great destination for food lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Distance: Approximately 120 km to Rovinj
Travel Time: About 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Italian-influenced cuisine, truffles, hilltop towns like Motovun and Rovinj
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Free (for general access to towns)
Budget: Approximately €50-€100 (including transportation, food, and optional activities)
Scenic Spots: Motovun Hilltop, Rovinj Old Town
Travel Tip: Sample local dishes like truffle pasta and visit an olive oil producer to taste some of the world’s best olive oil.
4. Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, offers a mix of classic Austro-Hungarian architecture, vibrant street culture, and rich history. Key attractions include the historic Upper Town, Ban Jelačić Square, and the Museum of Broken Relationships.
Distance: Approximately 160 km
Travel Time: About 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Historic Upper Town, Ban Jelačić Square, Museum of Broken Relationships
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Museum of Broken Relationships: €6
- Funicular: €1
Budget: Approximately €50-€80 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: St. Mark’s Church, Maksimir Park
Travel Tip: Explore the city’s numerous parks and cafes, and consider using the funicular railway for a quick trip to the Upper Town.
5. Opatija, Croatia

Opatija, known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is famous for its elegant villas and lush botanical gardens. The Lungomare promenade offers stunning sea views and leads to various beaches and historical buildings.
Distance: Approximately 45 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Elegant villas, lush botanical gardens, Lungomare promenade
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Free (for general access to town and Lungomare promenade)
Budget: Approximately €30-€50 (including transportation, food, and optional activities)
Scenic Spots: Angiolina Park, Volosko Fishing Village
Travel Tip: Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Lungomare and visit the Angiolina Park for its beautiful array of plants and flowers.
6. Pula, Croatia

Pula is renowned for its Roman ruins, including one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. This city also offers a bustling food scene and beautiful beaches nearby.
Distance: Approximately 140 km
Travel Time: About 2.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Roman ruins, well-preserved Roman amphitheater, bustling food scene
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Pula Arena: €10
- Temple of Augustus: €4
Budget: Approximately €50-€80 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Pula Harbor, Forum Square
Travel Tip: Check if there are any concerts or events happening in the Pula Arena during your visit for a spectacular experience.
7. Rijeka, Croatia

Rijeka, a port city, is known for its maritime heritage and the Trsat Castle, offering panoramic views of the Kvarner Bay. The city’s vibrant cultural scene includes numerous museums and festivals.
Distance: Approximately 35 km
Travel Time: About 40 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Maritime heritage, Trsat Castle, Korzo promenade
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Trsat Castle: Free
- Maritime and History Museum: €5
Budget: Approximately €30-€50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Trsat Castle Viewpoint, Korzo Promenade
Travel Tip: Visit the city’s central market for a taste of local life and fresh products.
8. Rab Island, Croatia

Rab Island, famous for its sandy beaches and medieval town, is a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical charm. Explore the old town of Rab with its four bell towers and relax on the island’s beautiful beaches.
Distance: Approximately 60 km to ferry port
Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by car to the ferry port, plus a 15-minute ferry ride
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com) and ferry
Main Attractions: Sandy beaches, medieval town of Rab, four bell towers
Best Time to Visit: Summer
Entrance Fees:
- Ferry Ticket: €5-€10
- Free (for general island access)
Budget: Approximately €40-€70 (including transportation, ferry, and food)
Scenic Spots: Rab Old Town, Paradise Beach
Travel Tip: Try the Rab Cake, a traditional almond cake that is a specialty of the island.
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