The island of Krk in the Kvarner Bay is an increasingly popular tourist destination among visitors of Croatia. Therefore, we want to make you acquainted with an exclusive selection of activities that you should definitely consider doing during your holiday on the island of Krk.
Summer, 2021 is finally making its appearance and the organization of your next vacation is probably already in full swing. Tourist destinations are eagerly awaiting their first visitors, and so is the unique island of Krk in the Kvarner region of Croatia, which we want to show off to you. If you are still unsure of your next vacation destination, this will perhaps convince you to pay a visit to this gorgeous Croatian island. So pause work for a second and let me take you on a short tour of the island of Krk.
The island of Krk, also known as The Golden Island, is the largest island in Croatia and is located in the northern Adriatic in the beautiful Kvarner Bay. Due to its favorable geographical position near the mainland, it is an extremely easy to reach destination which contributes to its popularity among tourists and locals alike. Viewed from the mainland, the island of Krk seems bare and deserted. However, that perspective is deceiving. The island of Krk is adorned with a green carpet of unspoiled vegetation. You can easily reach the island of Krk via the Krk Bridge, but keep in mind that the crossing of the bridge will cost you a few kunas.
Believe it or not, even the bridge is a sight to behold, as there is a parking lot in the middle of the bridge which offers a spectacular view of the Croatian coast and the port city of Rijeka. Furthermore, the Rijeka International Airport is located on the island of Krk, and the island´s infrastructure is well developed.
In this blog I want to present you the most beautiful places on the island of Krk and its surroundings, as there is a bunch of interesting activities to do and sights to see. Therefore, we have picked out only the best to help you experience the true spirit of the island.
The Picturesque Town of Vrbnik – Town of Wine on the Island of Krk
We will start out our tour in the east of the island of Krk in the beautiful town of Vrbnik. Vrbnik offers you a unique panorama view of the mainland coast of Croatia and the Kvarner Bay. However, the place itself is equally stunning and will delight you with its wine! Vrbnik is still spared from mass tourism and has preserved the history and tradition of the island of Krk, and thus Croatia. Walking through the narrow streets, you will feel the incomparable ambience of Vrbnik, while admiring the Glagolitic heritage that you can find throughout the city.
Vrbnik was built on a rock about 50 m above the sea and its history dates back to the year 1100. The first inhabitants of Vrbnik lived from agriculture, fishing and winemaking since the island of Krk is known for its white wine Vrbnicka Zlahtina which must be tasted on a visit to Vrbnik. Since all the houses and building of the old town were built to complement the rock Vrbnik was built on, this town simply radiates a special charm. On top of that, the narrow streets hide the magnificent Glagolitic history.
Relax on the Beach Potovosce in a Quiet Bay near Vrbnik
When choosing to spend your vacation on the Adriatic Sea of Croatia, you naturally want to take advantage of the beautiful beaches, and Vrbnik offers you just that. One of the most beautiful beaches on the island of Krk is certainly the beach Potovosce, which is located some 2 km from Vrbnik. It is a pebble beach in a quiet bay ideal for relaxation in a peaceful environment. The Adriatic Sea at this beach has the most beautiful turquoise-blue shade and the softest sand. Enjoy the view of the mainland coast of Croatia and the famous tourist places Crikvenica and Novi Vinodolski while swimming on the beach Potovosce. The cafés and bars will make sure you can recharge your batteries right of the beach which is easy to reach by car.
Discover the Sandy Beach of St. Marak in the Vicinity of the Idyllic Village of Risike
Croatia does not have many sandy beaches, especially the northern part. However, the island of Krk is one of the lucky ones as it has been blessed with one beautiful fully sandy beach called St. Marak. The beach is located below the village of Risike near Vrbnik. In addition to the sand, the beach also has its green parts in form of wonderful meadows and is very suitable for families with children. The gastronomic offer available on the beach will take care of your well-being.
Explore the Historical Castle of Gradec in the Middle of Green Nature
If after a relaxing day on the beach you are itching to explore the untouched greenery of the island of Krk, you should definitely visit the remains of the Castle Gradac which is located in a dense forest not far from Vrbnik. The castle was the home of the Frankopan princes, the first family on the island of Krk, who are considered the hereditary princes of the island of Krk. It is assumed that the castle was built in the 12th century. Today, its ruins are being used as venues for events with the aim to revive the history of the island of Krk. You can reach the castle by going on a relaxing and physically undemanding hike and at the same time experience the true nature of the island of Krk.
Travel Back to the Middle Ages with a Visit to the Town of Dobrinj on the Island of Krk
In order to get acquainted with and experience the history of the island of Krk and Croatia in general, you should definitely visit the medieval town of Dobrinj. The town is located on a hill near Vrbnik at an altitude of 200 m and will take you all the way back to the Middle Ages. Numerous writings and document are testimonials to the important role Dobrinj played for the Glagolitic alphabet. Tradition is the essence of this town, which is why Dobrinj is known for its folklore, traditional robes and authentic cuisine. Dobrinj was first mentioned in Glagolitic writings in 1100, but there are some archeological findings dating back to the Romanesque era. You can discover the rich centuries-old history of Dobrinj by simply walking through its cobbled streets.
Baska – Where the Island Ends and Your Vacation Begins
Let’s head over to the south of the island of Krk to the beautiful town of Baska, a very popular tourist destination with beautiful beaches. Baska will amaze you with its closeness to nature and its 2 km long pebble beach in the town. Additionally, in Baska you will find countless hiking trails and many cultural and historic monuments of the town and the island of Krk. The Church of St. Lucy, Church of st. John the Baptist, the Parish Church of the Holy Trinity and the Shrine to Our Lady of Goricka are just some sights waiting to be explored.
In addition to numerous churches, Baska is famous for its events, especially in the summer months, which you should definitely attend to experience the culture of Croatia and the island of Krk. When night falls, you can walk along the waterfront of Baska and treat yourself to delicious ice cream and enjoy the ambience of this historic town in the Kvarner region.
Discover the First Slavic Alphabet: Baska Tablet and the Baska Glagolitic Path
Baska is most famous for the Glagolitic alphabet and is of great importance for the Croatian culture and script. The Glagolitic alphabet is the oldest Slavic alphabet whose angular form was mostly used in Istria and Dalmatia. This is evidenced by the famous Baska tablet from the 12th century, the oldest monument of the written Old Croatian language. You can visit the original Baska tablet at the Croatian Academy of Sciences and Arts in Zagreb, and a copy is on display at the Church of St. Lucy in Baska, as it was a part of the church’s left altar partition. The inscription on the plaque consists of 13 lines and was a gift of the Croatian King Zvonimir to the Church of St. Lucy.
Another interesting project related to the Glagolitic alphabet is the Baska Glagolitic Trail. It is a project whose goal was to carve Glagolitic letters into individual stones to symbolize the importance of the Glagolitic alphabet for the Croatian language. The stones are located in the vicinity of Baska. Each letter is a gift from a Croatian city and is, in turn, dedicated to that city. The Glagolitic letters are the result of cooperation between Croatian, Slovenian, Austrian and Czech academies.
Enjoy the Beautiful View from the Ruins of the Baska Castle
Now that we have explored the historical and cultural heritage of Baska, it’s time to get to know the incomparable nature of Croatia and the island of Krk. In this regard, the island of Krk has a lot to offer and the Castle Baska located on a hill is one of them. A footpath leads to the ruins of the castle and once you reach your destination, you will be greeted by an unforgettable panorama view of the Croatian coast, the Kvarner Bay and the nearby islands and Baska itself. See for yourself what it means to spend a summer in the Land of a Thousand Islands and let the view enchant you.
Climb Obzova – the highest peak on the island of Krk
While we are already high in the sky, we can go even further to the highest peak of the island of Krk called Obzov. This peak is located between Baska i Stara Baska and is worth a visit during your vacation in Croatia. Numerous hiking trails will lead you through the landscape full of rocks all the way to the majestic Obzova peak and an altitude of 569 m. A unique view of the Croatian coast, the island of Cres and the island of Rab await you at the top. However, the climb is not for beginners because the path takes you through a rocky desert. Don’t let this discourage you though! The island of Krk has many other peaks which are easier to reach, such as the Veli Vrh, which is also a wonderful experience.
Soak Up the Sun on the Beautiful Beach Oprna near Stara Baska
After such a difficult climb, you are well deserved of a bit of rest and relaxation. And what better way than to visit one of the most beautiful beaches on the island on Krk located in Stara Baska near the town of Baska. This beach can be reached by foot or by boat, but trust me when I say that it will be worth it! Beach Oprna is a pebble beach with sandy parts and beautiful turquoise-blue sea. The beach is surrounded by untouched green nature and is, therefore, the perfect place to relax, recharge your batteries and catch a tan.
Cultural Heritage of the Town of Krk
Finally, let us visit the town of Krk, the administrative center of the island of Krk. The symbol of this city is without a doubt the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and its bell tower which resembles a harbor. The Romanesque basilica was built in the 5th century. However, its restauration resulted in the addition of some Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architectural elements. The cathedral´s name is a nod to the recognition of Mary as the Mother of God. The Church of St. Kvirina from the 12th century is also a part of this cathedral and is located in the old town which is separated from the modern part of the town by both a harbor and a waterfront.
Having explored the cultural and historic heritage, you will find everything you need for your well-being on the Vela placa in the city center. In addition, in the heart of the old town you will feel the true spirit and life of the city of Krk, which blooms in the summer months when various festivities and events are held, such as the festival of the city of Krk in August. In terms of beaches, the city of Krk offers many opportunities for relaxation, such as Drazica beach, Porporela beach and Potapisana beach, all of which have a blue flag. As you can see, the city of Krk offers everything you need for a perfect vacation on the island of Krk in Croatia.
Party with You Fur Family Members on Redagara Beach in the Town of Krk
I have introduced you to the most beautiful beaches on the island of Krk. Now it’s time to give a bit of attention to man’s best friend as they are for many an important part of having a relaxing vacation in Croatia. Welcome to the dog-friendly beach Redagara. This dog beach is located in the Valda Gara Bay and offers you and your four-legged friends a lot of peace. You can get to the beach without any problems, and on the beach you will find showers, tie beams and lots of natural shade. A real vacation in Croatia for your pet can finally start on this beach!
Visit the Unique Island of Kosljun & the Franciscan Monastery
In order to combine a little culture with nature during your vacation in Croatia on the island of Krk, I recommend a trip to the island of Kosljun where the Franciscan monastery and the Church of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary are located. This small island is located in the Bay of Punat near the town of Krk hugged by the coast of the island of Krk. You can get to the island by boat, and the ride takes only ten minutes. After a short relaxing cruise, you can admire the unique plants which inhabit the island. Although the island of Kosljun measures only approximately 7 hectares, 540 species of plants and fungi grow on it. Furthermore, you should definitely visit the ethnographic museum, which exhibits old costumes, Roman coins and banknotes.
Some Exclusive Tips for a Holiday on the Island of Krk
So far, I have introduced you to some places on the island of Krk and its surroundings, but there is much more to be discovered and that is why I want to present you a few more exclusive places in this part of the blog. Some places are more or less famous, while others are real secrets of the island of Krk, so get ready for our finale tour on the island of Krk.
Experience Peace on Cape Glavine & in the Bay of Mala Luka
We are in the south of the island of Krk near Baska because there on the southeast coast are Cape Glavine and Mala Luka Bay, which together form a bird sanctuary. The Glavine-Mala Luka reserve is approximately 1000 hectares and extends all the way to the Croatian coast. Within the reserve there are trails that you can walk on to experience untouched nature and complete peace, and on top of that you can admire a variety of birds in their natural habitat. The nature is truly amazing, and Cape Glavine rises magnificently from the Adriatic Sea and will surely enchant you during a boat trip.
Take Care of Your Health on Meline Beach near Soline
We will now head north, but we will stay on the east coast of the island of Krk because not far from the small town of Soline is the beach Meline, which is known for its healing mud. The beach takes you into the shallow sea and offers you a magnificent view of the Croatian coast, but what makes this beach special is its healing mud that supposedly helps with joint problems and other rheumatic diseases. And thanks to the shallow sea, Meline beach is especially suitable for families with children, so during your vacation on the island of Krk in Croatia you can enjoy some water fun with your loved ones and also do something for your health.
Discover the Secret Cave of Biserujka
We continue north to the Biserujka cave, which we highly recommend for you to explore during your vacation on the island of Krk. It is a cave full of stalactites, whose name is associated with an interesting legend. Legend has it that the Biserujka cave was named after "pearls", i.e. after the treasure that is allegedly hidden in the cave. Stalactites of various shapes and rare species of animals await you in the cave. While visiting the cave, you can visit a total of 5 rooms in which the most interesting details of the stalactites are highlighted. The cave is located approximately 13 m below the ground and is only some 110 m deep, but nevertheless it is very fascinating.
Enjoy an Unforgettable View of the Krk Bridge from the Bay of Voz
To end our tour, we will head slowly towards the Krk bridge to the town of Voz, which is located in its immediate vicinity. Voz is the place closest to the Croatian mainland and was once a ferry port when the ferry connected the mainland and the island before the construction of the Krk bridge. From the bay in Voz, you are offered a unique view of the entire Krk bridge, which looks even more magnificent from below and is truly impressive!
We have reached the end of our blog full of activities on the island of Krk and I hope that this will help you decide what to do on Krk, how to choose the best destinations and best activities and that you have discovered something new about Krk. In case you are considering the island of Krk for your next vacation in Croatia, and you are still looking for beautiful accommodation, take a look at our range of beautiful holiday homes with a private pool on the island of Krk.
If you are interested in other luxury holiday homes with a pool in Croatia, discover our fantastic villas in Croatia and find the villa that suits you best to turn your vacation in Croatia into a special experience. Adriatic Luxury Villas certainly offers something for everyone's taste!
In case you have additional questions, Adriatic Luxury Villas is at your disposal, so do not hesitate to contact us. We are looking forward to your arrival! 😊
