Villa Monika

Connected to the mainland by a huge bridge, the ‘Golden Isle’ of Krk is the largest island in Croatia. Sitting in the middle of Kvarner Bay, the island is lined with endless pebble beaches and is within easy reach of the city of Rijeka and the Italian and Slovenian borders.

Krk Town is a good place to get a feel for the island’s history. Among its main attractions are the Frankopan Castle which sits looking out to sea and offers particularly good views from its newly renovated 12th-century tower. Also of architectural interest are the town’s Cathedral of the Assumption and adjacent St Quirinus’ Church.

You can look forward to relaxing on Krk’s seafront promenade with its chilled cafés and bars, and if you visit in August, you may well catch the annual Krk Fair. Whenever you arrive, seek out the Volsonis bar to have a drink underground in an atmospheric Roman catacomb.

Elsewhere on the island, Baška is a popular choice for beach lovers, but in peak season that popularity can make the beautiful beach a very crowded one. Head east and you are likely to find some quieter spots. The area’s other attractions include St Lucy’s Church and the Church of St John the Baptist, or you could trek into the mountains for some invigorating hiking.

The delightful village of Vrbnik is the perfect place to try the local wine, Zlahtina, and to dine at some of the island’s best restaurants. Local cuisine is generally healthy, with plenty of fish, locally produced olive oil, fresh vegetables, and herbs among the staples of dishes commonly found on Krk menus.

The island is big on activity, offering a wide range of water sports such as scuba-diving, as well as quad biking, rock climbing, zip-lines and more. The Edison Zipline near Vrbnik is a big attraction that serves up some spectacular views as you descend.

Over the bridge, the city of Rijeka is the third largest in Croatia, and as such you will find all sorts going on. Whether you catch the annual summer festival or visit Trsat Castle, it’s well worth visiting this lively port. Rijeka offers good shopping on the busy Korzo, culture at the Ivan Zajc National Theatre and a free-to-enter Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art.

Read more about Krk

Krk, the largest island in the Kvarner Gulf, offers visitors an enchanting blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture. This island paradise, with its captivating landscapes, historic towns, and warm Mediterranean climate, has rightly earned its reputation as one of Croatia's top tourist destinations.

Krk's rugged and diverse geography is a significant part of its appeal. The island boasts a picturesque coastline with countless coves, bays, and pristine beaches to explore. For those looking to relax and unwind, Krk’s beautiful, serene beaches Baska Beach and Malinska Beach are perfect spots to unwind. The calm, crystal-clear waters and warm sun provide an ideal setting for a peaceful day by the sea.

The Adriatic Sea provides the perfect playground for water sports enthusiasts - kayaking, windsurfing and jet-skiing are all popular activities around the island. The crystal-clear waters are also perfect for snorkelling and diving. Many tour operators on the island offer family-friendly excursions where you can explore the underwater world and observe marine life together. Krk also has several marinas, making it a popular stop for sailors and boaters exploring the Adriatic.

Krk’s landscape also includes lush greenery and rolling hills, ideal for hiking and cycling. Numerous bike paths and trails wind through the miles of untouched nature. Whether you're an experienced cyclist or a novice, you can explore the island at your own pace or join one of the many bike tours on offer, enjoying the fresh air and breathtaking scenery. The serene countryside offers splendid vistas, and the scents of Mediterranean herbs like rosemary and lavender fill the air.

The city of Krk, the island's main hub, is a charming blend of history and modernity. The well-preserved ancient city walls and medieval architecture are a testament to its storied past. One of the most iconic landmarks is the Frankopan Castle, a magnificent fortress that dates back to the 12th century. The island also boasts numerous churches and chapels, including the Cathedral of St. Mary, which features Romanesque and Gothic elements, and the small church of St. Donatus, one of the oldest on the island.

Krk's culinary scene is a rooted in the Croatian lifestyle, emphasising locally sourced ingredients and flavours. The island's cuisine is known for its use of olive oil, fresh seafood, and an array of herbs. In the picturesque towns and villages, you'll find cozy family-run restaurants and taverns offering hearty traditional dishes like "šurlice," a homemade pasta, and "pašticada," a slow-cooked beef stew. The island is also renowned for its sheep cheese, such as “šur", and the exceptional local wine "Žlahtina," which pairs perfectly with the island’s fresh seafood. Dining in a konoba, a traditional Croatian tavern, allows you to savour the essence of Krk's cuisine while enjoying the warm hospitality of the locals.

While Krk itself has so much to offer, it also serves as a gateway to explore the wider Kvarner region and the nearby islands. A short ferry ride connects Krk to Cres, Rab, and other smaller islands, each with their own unique charm and attractions. The proximity to the mainland makes it easy to embark on day trips to cities like Rijeka and Opatija, famous for their historic architecture and buzzing cultural scenes.

Krk offers a diverse range of experiences for travellers seeking natural beauty, history, culture, and delicious cuisine. With its rich history, warm hospitality, and breathtaking landscapes, Krk has rightfully earned its place as one of Croatia's top tourist destinations. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a cultural experience, this “Golden Island” island has it all.