Best locations to buy property on the Opatija Riviera in 2025

For more than a century, the Opatija Riviera has been attracting the most discerning guests, and today it stands as one of the most sought-after destinations for buying property in Croatia - both for domestic and international buyers. Nestled between the Kvarner Bay and the slopes of Mount Učka, this region offers a unique blend of climate, views, architecture, and lifestyle. For many, buying property here means not only investing in a prestigious living space, but also securing long-term capital. Yet, when the question arises - “Where exactly should I buy?” - the answers are not always obvious. In this blog, we highlight the best locations on the Opatija Riviera for buying property in 2025, with concrete insights and recommendations. Whether you are looking for a luxury villa by the sea, an apartment in a renovated historic villa, or a modern new development with panoramic views, the Opatija Riviera offers outstanding opportunities tailored to a variety of lifestyles and budgets.

Apartment with sea view in historic center of Opatija - "move in ready"

Opatija - elegance, security, and timeless appeal

Opatija remains the most sought-after location for those who want an exceptional lifestyle combined with excellent connectivity. Its proximity to Rijeka, the airport on Krk, as well as Slovenia and Italy, makes Opatija particularly attractive for buyers seeking a second home or a base for longer stays and business opportunities. In the historic center, new developments have brought luxury apartments to the market, while a growing number of residences in restored historic villas preserve Opatija’s architectural charm while offering modern comfort. The new urban plan strictly prohibits new buildings outside existing volumes, which makes current properties even more valuable in the long term. One particularly attractive area is Plahuti, just above Slatina, which has been growing rapidly - offering apartments of various sizes, panoramic views, and immediate proximity to the sea, Carmen Sylva promenade, and Margarita Park.

Ičići - marina, new developments, and strong investment potential

For years, Ičići has been one of the top choices for buyers seeking life by the sea with privacy and elevated views. Its marina adds significant value, while the Lungomare promenade connects it directly to Opatija and Lovran. In recent years, Ičići has seen a wave of new residential projects, and the planned Marriott hotel will further enhance the area’s lifestyle, gastronomy, and amenities. The upper parts of Ičići towards Veprinac are increasingly in demand - offering spectacular unobstructed views, peace, and luxury villas surrounded by greenery. The completion of the full-profile Učka tunnel highway (Matulji–Veprinac exit) will further increase the attractiveness of this area and improve accessibility from Istria and Zagreb.

Luxury penthouse in historic villa with sea view – Opatija Riviera

Ika - elegance, history, and discreet luxury

Ika is a smaller settlement with great charm and elegance. In addition to its seaside promenade, Ika is home to the Ikador hotel, one of the most exclusive in Croatia, whose facilities enrich the entire region. Right next to Ikador lie some of the most beautiful historic villas in the country - often off-market, but occasionally a rare gem becomes available.

Lovran - history, gastronomy, and modern living

Lovran combines a Mediterranean rhythm with a rich offering. Its historic core with stone houses, seaside promenades, and proximity to beautiful beaches, Medveja and Mošćenička Draga - make it ideal for buyers seeking seaside living away from the tourist rush. In recent years, Lovran has seen a growing supply of modern apartments and renovated historic villas, along with rising interest from both domestic and international buyers. Its culinary scene is among the strongest in the region - with Draga di Lovrana, Najade, Ganeum, and Kvarner all underscoring its reputation as a high-end gastronomic destination.

Mediterranean elegance: Villa with pool, wellness area and an unforgettable view

Mošćenička Draga and Mošćenice - natural beauty and authentic charm

This authentic fishing village has been undergoing a quiet yet high-quality transformation. Some of the Riviera’s most stunning contemporary villas have been built here, on the slopes above the sea and in the surroundings of Mošćenice, a historic hilltop town offering some of the most breathtaking views of Kvarner. Mošćenička Draga also boasts a rich restaurant scene, including Johnson and Zijavica, both Michelin-recommended, which further elevate the profile of the area. A golf course project is also in preparation, expected to significantly increase its appeal and attract new waves of buyers and investors.

Land at the end of a cul-de-sac with unobstructed sea views

Poljane and Veprinac - tranquility, space, and panoramic views

For buyers seeking privacy, peace, and exceptional views, Poljane and Veprinac are among the best options. Luxury villas on large plots, just minutes from the sea, offer a Tuscan feel with sweeping views over Kvarner. With the full-profile highway now in place, accessibility from Istria, Zagreb, or Ljubljana has improved dramatically - making these locations ideal for both living and leisure without compromise.

Gornji Kraj, Pobri, Matulji, and Bregi - practicality, value, and growth potential

For those seeking larger apartments, new developments with parking and views at more attractive prices - these locations present excellent opportunities. In the past two years, more and more domestic and foreign buyers have recognized the advantages of the areas above Opatija, which offer nearly everything the center does, but with more space and better value for money. Matulji’s direct access to the highway has made it increasingly popular with frequent travelers and those seeking logistical connections to Istria, Zagreb, and Slovenia. Bregi stands out as an exclusive neighborhood offering spectacular, unobstructed views of Kvarner Bay, Opatija, and Rijeka. The area is seeing continuous growth in luxury homes and villas, with the added benefit of being adjacent to Učka Nature Park, offering hiking, cycling, horseback riding, and other outdoor activities.

Apartment in a historic villa, 2nd row to the sea - Opatija Riviera

How to choose the right location?

The right location on the Opatija Riviera ultimately depends on your lifestyle, expectations, and long-term plans. If you enjoy being in the center of it all, consider Opatija, Ičići, or Ika. If you prefer more tranquility and traditional charm, Lovran, Mošćenička Draga, or Mošćenice might be the ideal choice. For maximum privacy, Poljane, Veprinac, or the upper parts of Ičići and Matulji are excellent options. No matter your preference, the Opatija Riviera remains one of the safest and most attractive places to invest in real estate in Croatia.

Explore our curated selection of properties on the Opatija Riviera and find the home that perfectly matches your lifestyle. For more inspiration, read our blog Top 3 reasons to buy an apartment in Opatija, where we reveal why this destination is the right choice both for living and investing. And if you are considering buying property, contact us - we will be happy to guide you through the process, present exclusive opportunities and help you make the best decision.

Blog author: Ivan Kovačić