Croatia has over 1,000 islands and the island of Krk is tied with it's neighboring island, Cres as the two largest ones. Both are 405.78 square kilometers (156.67 square miles). Krk Island is located in the most northern part of the Adriatic Sea. It is one of very few Croatian islands that connects to the mainland by a bridge, built between 1976-1980. The island can also be reached by ferry or boat from a variety of locations on the mainland or from other islands. It is one of two ferry locations to reach Cres Island, the other one being from the mainland in Istria. This travel guide includes all the visitor information you need to know and features all the best sights to see while exploring Krk Island.
Omišalj
When crossing over the bridge to the northeastern end of the island from the mainland, which is in between the towns of Kraljevica and Šmrika, the first town you come to is on the west side of the island, called Omišalj. For those flying into Croatia, Rijeka International Airport is located here as well but on the east side. This quaint town is located on a cliff and has amazing views of the Adriatic sea. A collection of rock monuments, called Lapidarij, seen throughout town explain its history. Nearby tour the 5th century historical ruins of Mirine Fulfinum Archeological Park. It is possibly the largest early Christian basilica or Benedictine abbey in the Mediterranean. Just a little further away the Biserujka Cave in Rudine. This cave offers a unique experience of exploring the underground world of stalactites and stalagmites and even has a concert hall.
Njivice
The second town you will see, just a little further down the road, is Njivice. It is located right on the sea and is known for its fisherman, olive grove workers and cattle breeders. For such a small town it has a nice sized marina and tons of beaches that have become a very popular spot for summer tourists. Nearby, but on the east side of the island, visit Soline Bay in Soline. This beach is made of black mud, called peloid, for centuries known for its healing properties because of its rich minerals and organic compounds. Apply the mud on your skin and let it dry for about 30 minutes before washing off, avoiding your elbows, knees, thyroid, heart and kidneys. Your skin will be left smooth and glowing and it is said to also help boost the metabolism, blood flow and those with injuries to the musculoskeletal system. Stay at the Veya Hotel by Aminess. This 3 star hotel is located right on the beach promenade and offers a restaurant and bar with spectacular sea views and free drinks with meals.
Malinska
As you continue down the road you come to Malinska. This slightly larger town is also right on the sea with a marina and nearby beaches. Visit the DUBoak - Maritime Heritage Interpretation Center and the Haludovo Palace Hotel. This abandoned hotel is one of the most iconic buildings on the island. Stay at Hotel Malin. This 4 star hotel is located next to Malin Beach and offers a spa, indoor and outdoor pool, and a restaurant.
Dobrinj
Nearby inland is the little town of Dobrinj. Known as the “white town in the middle of the island” and the town of “only good people” because even long ago when pirates attacked multiple times the people treated the enemy as one of their own. Not far from here you can visit Gradec Castle in Risika. This medieval castle was the first castle acquired by the first Frankopans, the Counts of Krk and is also known as the Rovoznik Fortress. It consists of a courtyard, main room and kitchen with pantry.
Vrbnik
On the east side of the island is the town of Vrbnik. The old town is charming, located right at the top of a cliff on the sea. Walk through Klančić, one of the narrowest streets in the world, or head down to the pier and popular dive spot. Tour the Katunar Estate Winery, well known for making Žlahtina wine. They offer tours of the vineyards and cellars, wine tastings, wine shop and a restaurant. Stay at the Design Hotel Verbenicum. This 4 star design hotel is located very close to the old town and offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea with an outdoor pool, restaurant and complimentary breakfast.
Krk City
Named after the island, the city of Krk is the largest settlement on the island. Visit Kamplin Square located in the center with the Krk Cathedral on one side and the Frankopan Castle on the other. This medieval castle was built by the first Frankopans, the Counts of Krk, between the 12th and 15th centuries. It includes Roman ramparts, four towers, walls, atrium and cistern. The cathedral is a focal point of the city and walking along the medieval fort's walls offers stunning views of the sea and city. Not far from here is the town of Valbiska and the Valbiska Ferry Port (Trajektna luka Valbiska) that connects passengers to Cres Island in the town of Merag at the Merag Ferry Port.· Stay at the Boutique Hotel Marina. This 4 star hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers a private beach, an outdoor pool, and a spa.
Punat
Just south of Krk City is the small town of Punat. Once a place of sheep herding, olive growing, fishing and ship building, today it has the largest marina on the island. From here you can take a short boat ride to Košljun Island. On the island you can tour the Franciscan Monastery and Museum. Stay at the Hotel Kanajt. This 4 star hotel is located near the marina and offers a spa, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant. The hotel was once a bishop’s summer villa.
Baška
At the southeastern stretch of the island is the beach town of Baška. This beach is one of the most popular beaches in Croatia and offers crystal clear waters and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Before you get into town you will first pass Zipline Edison. They offer eight different ziplines through the valley towards the sea with their about two hour long “canopy tour” where you take a jeep ride to the highest point and then make your way down through the adventurous landscape. In the town you can also visit St. Lucia’s Church and Museum which houses the Stone Tablet of Baška, one of the oldest Croatian Glagolitic alphabet inscriptions. Stay at the Valamar Atrium Baška Residence. This 4 star hotel is located near the beach and offers a spa, fitness center, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant.
Being that Krk is an island it is naturally full of amazingly fresh seafood. It also has several olive groves and lavender fields. Check out olive oil producer Krčko Maslinovo Ulje and prosciutto producer Kuća Krčkog Pršuta - Žužić.
Restaurant Recommendations:
7 Seas Restaurant and Bar in Njivice
Restoran Rivica in Njivice
Konoba Lastura in Čižići
Žal in Dobrinj
Konoba Feral in Malinska
Konoba pud Brest in Milohnići
Magriz in Lakmartin
Ulika Maslinik in Kornić
Konoba Galija in the city of Krk
Konoba Nono in the city of Krk
Restoran Marin in Punat
Polina’s Taverne in Punat
Restoran Mošuna in Draga Bašćanska
Bistro Malin in Batomalj
In some moments, because of Krk Island's size and all that it offers, you don't even really feel like you are on an island. If you're a fan of beaches and boats, swimming and fishing, historical sights and castles, or caves and zip lines, then this island has something for you.
Many have been to the southern coastal part of the country, like Dubrovnik to take a "Game of Thrones Tour", visited the city of Split as one of their cruise itinerary ports, or stopped off at one of the islands, like Korčula, Hvar and Brač, but most have not seen the north coast regions of Croatia and we highly recommend you do.
Whether it's your first time traveling to the country or just the next time you're here wanting a more authentic, less touristy experience. Europeans have been vacationing at this hidden gem for decades but others seem to completely overlook it. Come see for yourself what makes the north coast so special.
North Coast Croatia Travel Agency specializes in travel to Croatia and surrounding European countries. Providing consultations, custom itineraries, pre-designed theme itineraries, summer beach rentals and a travel blog. Booking flights, accommodations, cruises, tours, rental cars, transfers, bus/train/ferry tickets, travel insurance and more!
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