September the 2nd, 2025 – Did you know that the longest seaside promenade in Croatia connects 5 settlements? You’ll find it in a coastal gem known for its Austro-Hungarian glam.
As Putni kofer writes, the scent of the sea and the thick Mediterranean pine trees, the sound of the crystalline Adriatic’s waves crashing against the rocks, glamorous Austro-Hungarian villas and beautiful views. All this makes Lungomare the most famous and most beautiful seaside promenade in Croatia. Stretching along the rugged coastline for 12 kilometres, it elegantly connects five towns dotted along the Kvarner coast. In fact, this is the longest seaside promenade in all of Croatia, connecting the following 5 settlements: pretty little Volosko, charming Opatija, vibrant Ičići, peaceful Ika and romantic Lovran. Since the end of the 19th century, this path has been captivating walkers from all over the world, transforming an ordinary walk into an experience full of history, beauty and a dash of northern Mediterranean magic.
an austro-hungarian story spanning decades
The official name of the promenade is Obalno šetalište Franje Josipa I., clearly named after the Austrian emperor who lived from 1830 to 1916. However, few people call it that, as everyone knows it simply as Lungomare.
Its construction began at the end of the 19th century. The first section from Volosko to Opatija was opened in 1889, the same year that Opatija was declared a health resort, while the southern section to Lovran was completed in 1911. This famous promenade recently celebrated its 110th birthday, and it has never looked more beautiful.
The Lungomare’s special feature lies in its perfect location. Along its entire length, it winds right next to the sea and follows the indented coastline like an elegant ribbon. The view of the endless blue of the Adriatic is never interrupted, but is constantly offered in combination with the scent of salt and nearby pine trees.
The longest seaside promenade in Croatia which connects 5 settlements is completely landscaped, flat and easy to walk along, making it equally attractive to athletes who run here, families with children who come to enjoy a leisurely walk, retirees who come for a dose of health and fresh air, as well as people in wheelchairs, to whom it is fully accessible. The gorgeous Lungomare is open to everyone and offers a unique experience of the sea, the sun and Kvarner’s unique beauty.
opatija – the first lady of croatian tourism
When taking a stroll along Lungomare, you will quickly discover the symbols that have made Opatija the queen of the Adriatic. At the very beginning, you’re greeted by the statue of the Girl with the Seagull, an elegant and somewhat mystical figure who has guarded this beautiful Riviera for many decades. Not far from it, the Church of St. James (Sv Jakov) rises up, and right next to it is the cult Hotel Kvarner, the oldest hotel in the entire northern Adriatic, and an elegant symbol of the golden age of Austro-Hungarian aristocracy.
Just a few steps away lies the charming Angiolina Park, a true botanical pearl where exotic plants and fragrant Mediterranean greenery mingle in perfect harmony. All this, combined with the magnificent Austro-Hungarian villas that line the path like a backdrop, and the well-maintained beaches where the sea shimmers in the sun, make Lungomare an enchanting promenade that will delight lovers of history, architecture and natural beauty alike.
the longest seaside promenade in croatia and its 5 settlements
Although the Lungomare stretches through the aforementioned settlements, each section has its own character. From Opatija to Volosko, you’ll need to walk for about 3.5 kilometres, while the distance to Lovran is approximately 6 kilometres. Along the way, you will come across charming beaches, cosy cafes and many quaint little corners where you can stop, rest and enjoy the beautiful view. At the section near Ičići, the promenade passes through a kind of stone “tunnel”, which gives the whole experience an additional dose of mysticism.
Regardless of whether you’re an avid runner, a history buff, a romantic who enjoys the views of the sea or someone who just wants to enjoy a leisurely stroll, the gorgeous Lungomare has something to offer. It’s a promenade open to all, and the experience it provides will remain in your memory for a long time. The views, scents and atmosphere of Opatija’s sheer beauty are the reason why locals and tourists alike keep coming back to it – year after year.
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