Holidays in Crikvenica

Your holiday on the Croatian coast starts here. We’ll tell you everything you need to know to book your accommodation

crikvenica strand

What to do?

We suggest some of the most important sights that you should definitely visit during your holiday in Crikvenica.

About Crikvenica

Located at the mouth of the Dubracina river in the Kvarner Bay, 32 km southeast of the great port city of Rijeka, lies the popular tourist resort of Crikvenica. The resort is embedded in the river landscape, giving the city one of the few sandy beaches in this region of Croatia and other wonderful attractions. Like many other cities on the Kvarner, Crikvenica also developed under the Habsburg dynasty into a popular tourist destination, which was officially declared a health resort in the early 20th century. The nobility particularly enjoyed the mild climate and pleasant temperatures in the climatic health resort of Crikvenica, which paved the foundations for continuous health tourism in the city. Additionally, remnants of the Habsburg dynasty include the number of imposing buildings, monuments and parks which characterize the city. This includes above all the numerous sculptures and statues: among those that must be mentioned are the sculpture park, the memorial to the politician Stjepan Radic and the bronze statue of a fisherman that was erected in memory of the local fishermen. Other “witnesses” of the traditions and history of Crikvenica are: the olive mill Tos, in remembrance of the work of the growers, and the Church of the Pauline Monastery, which was first mentioned in 1412 in the deed of the city. The Church of the Holy Virgin Mary Assumption is the oldest church in the city and formative for the historic old town.

It definitely bustles around the Stjepana Radica square. Here, numerous stalls from merchants line up during the day with the intention of bringing their freshly caught fish to the population. In the evenings, the nightlife awakens on the square when locals and visitors come to the bars, konobas (taverns) and restaurants. During the course of the season the square also becomes the venue for folk song and dance groups during carnivals or houses the traditional fishing week, which has become a very popular event in Crikvenica. In Crikvenica, you can divide up your free time as varied as you wish. While the idyllic river landscape around the river Dubracina lures guests in for canoeing, biking and hiking, you can also enjoy a relaxing day at the glorious sand and pebbled beaches. For a day or a half-day trip, the municipal aquarium with over 100 different types of fish as well as the surrounding towns of Kvarner have a lot to offer.

Where is Crikvenica?

Find your location here, navigate with the help of the map and discover the hidden corners of this beautiful Croatian city.

6 visual reasons to visit Crikvenica

Crikvenica Highlights

Hotspots Crikvenica

  • Beaches: Gradska Kupaliste and Podvorska are perfect for swimming and relaxing.

  • Church of the Assumption: A historical church reflecting the region’s religious heritage.

  • Crikvenica Town Museum: A museum that showcases the history and culture of the city.

  • Lovers’ Path (Ljubavna Cestica): A scenic walking trail offering spectacular views of the coast.

  • Vrtare Male Cave: A prehistoric cave with fascinating fossils.

  • Risnjak National Park: A natural park ideal for hiking and nature enjoyment.

  • Excursions: Krk Island, Novi Vinodolski, and Plitvice Lakes are nearby attractions.

Must sees Dubrovnik
What to see in Dubrovnik

Where to go in Crikvenica

Gradska Kupaliste Beach – A long sandy beach, especially popular with families, awarded with the Blue Flag.

Podvorska Beach – Just a 10-minute walk from the city center, offering calm waters and a relaxed atmosphere.

Promenade of Crikvenica – A lovely coastal promenade, perfect for walking, leading to more hidden beaches.

Church of the Assumption – A historic building, part of the former Pauline Monastery, with significant religious history.

Crikvenica Town Museum – Learn about the city’s past, its development as a tourist destination, and local life.

Lovers’ Path (Ljubavna Cestica) – An 8 km long hiking trail through Mediterranean forests with stunning views of the Kvarner Bay.

Vrtare Male Cave – A cave near Dramalj, known for its prehistoric finds, including mammoth and cave lion remains.

Risnjak National Park – A stunning nature park about an hour’s drive from Crikvenica, offering hiking trails and breathtaking views.

Mount srd Dubrovnik
lokrum island Dubrovnik

Events in Crikvenica

CRIKVART – Street Entertainers Festival (July 5) – Street performers from around the world turn Crikvenica into a lively stage.

Eclipse Summer Festival (July 3–6) – A dance festival at Kačjak beach with workshops and parties, celebrating Urban Kiz and Tarraxo.

Velvet Festival (June 25–29) – A music festival featuring international artists in the surrounding area.

Beat Na Moru (August 21–23) – A music festival by the sea.

Primorska noć – Traditional Nights – Local festivals in Crikvenica, Selce, and Jadranovo featuring music, dance, and local specialties.

St. John’s Bonfire (June 24) – A traditional Midsummer bonfire by the beach.

Fisherman’s Week (August 30 – September 6) – A week of culinary delights, music, and cultural events.

Basket Crikvenica Cup (June 6–8) – An international youth basketball tournament.

Šilo–Crikvenica Swimming Marathon (August 15) – A swimming competition between the two towns.

Festivals in Dubrovnik
crikvenica heart

Gastronomy in Crikvenica

Crikvenica offers a diverse culinary scene with a focus on Mediterranean flavors:

  1. Crkveniške rupice – Homemade dough pockets with various fillings.

  2. Salted Anchovies “Sveta Jelena” Style – A local specialty.

  3. Selački Puhanci – Fried dough flatbreads from the hinterland.

  4. Frankopanen Cake – A traditional dessert.

Where to eat in Dubrovnik