Krk

Krk, or the ‘Golden Island’, is the northernmost island in the Gulf of Kvarner and is connected to mainland Croatia by a majestic bridge. It is a very popular tourist destination with an impressive historical and cultural heritage. There is a mild Mediterranean climate, bright azure Adriatic Sea, and its nature is striking in its beauty. The idyllic isle is made up of dense forests interspersed with rocks, olive groves, and vineyards in addition to quaint villages and towns. The most notable of the towns are Baska, Omisalj, Punat, Malinska, Vrbnik, and the homonymous Krk. All of them deserve the attention of visitors and have their own architectural and natural attractions. 

History

Krk has a rich history, where the first mention of it dates back to the 1st century BC in the context of a naval battle between Julius Caesar and Pompeii. The area was then settled by the Slavs around the 6th century AD. Over the next two thousand years, Krk passed under the control of different countries and is now part of Croatia after the War of Independence in 1990. In memory of the civilizations that have lived here, many historical traces remain on Krk, such as the Baska Tablet, a monument of ancient writing. There are Illyrian, Greek, and Roman monuments in the town of Krk, as well as the ruins of the ancient Roman city, Fulfinum, located in Omisalj.

What is Krk Famous For?          

Krk Island has a reputation as a yachting resort ideal for beach days and historical excursions. On the territory of about 406 km² there are numerous sand and pebble beaches such as Vela Plaza Baska Beach and Beach Oprna, suitable for family holidays and water sports. Small islands near Krk Island like Kormat and Galun offer yachtsmen anchorage and submerged sites for scuba diving exploration. Also among the natural attractions is the famous karst Biserujka Cave with stalactites and stalagmites. Of the variety of ancient heritage on the island, the most famous are the 12th century Frankopan Castle and the Franciscan Monastery of the Annunciation on the islet of Kosljun.

Places to Visit in Krk

Krk is a popular Croatian island located on the Dalmatian coast in Kvarner Bay. It is connected to the mainland by the 1430-meter Krk Bridge. There are many stunning beaches such as beautiful Vela Luka, sandy Vela Plaza Baska, Oprna Bay, secluded Soline Bay and quiet Porporela Beach. There is also a very comfortable beach in the town of Punat, where Marina Punat is located. The most interesting natural attraction is the karst Biserujka Cave, located in Rudine with amazing formations. The thrilling Camino Krk pilgrimage route for hiking and cycling has a length of more than 150 km. For diving lovers, there is the Peltastis Shipwreck, which sank in 1968 due to a hurricane. It is interesting to walk around the towns of Krk, for example, along Vrbnik where visitors can see Klancic, one of the Narrowest Streets in the world, with the narrowest part being just over 40 cm wide.

In addition to the best beaches in the world, Krk Island also offers diving and historic excursions in its main towns of Krk, Baska, Omisalj, Punat, and Malinska. The uninhabited islands of Kormat and Galun are known for shipwreck diving. There is the Underwater Park Punat with a special safe dive in an air-filled underwater bell. The historical attractions include the Baska Tablet, the Roman city of Fulfinum in Omisalj, and the Franciscan Monastery of the Annunciation on the islet of Kosljun. Also on Krk there are ancient historical places like the Church of St. Lucia built between the 11th and 12th centuries. Also interesting is the ancient Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the town of Krk, which was built in the 5th or 6th century. In the city center of Krk there is also the Old Town with the main Square Kamplin surrounded by the 12th century Frankopan Castle.

Best Time to Visit Krk

One of the largest islands in the Gulf of Kvarner, Krk Island attracts travelers every year with its magnificent beaches and its warm temperate climate perfect for beach holidays, sea trips, and underwater sports. The best time to visit for sea tourism is the warm period from May to the end of October, but life on the large island is in full swing all year round. The resort has something to offer at any time of the year, including exploration of historical sites like the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, bike trails, and hikes on the Camino Krk pilgrimage route. There are also numerous events that take place here throughout the year, such as Krk Music Fest in June, the Dani Vina Otoka Krka wine festival in September, and the bicycle tournament Proljece na Kotacima at the end of April.

The best time to visit Krk is the warmer months from May to early October. Usually travelers who want to visit for a beach holiday come here in early June until the end of September, when it is warmest and the sea is pleasant. For lovers of hiking and other activities, as well as for those who want to explore the many historic and cultural sites, it is more convenient to choose spring and autumn, when it is not so hot during the daytime. It should also be noted that many travelers like to visit in winter before Christmas, when the island turns into a fabulous location and offers a holiday festival.

 Weather in Krk         

Krk has a mild Mediterranean climate. The swimming season lasts from June to the end of September, and the best time for a warm beach holiday is July and August. The air temperature at this time warms up to around 74.9°F (23.8°C) and the water temperature reaches 75.02°F (23.90°C). The summers are dry and virtually rainless, with the rainy season beginning in November and temperatures reaching their low of 40.1°F (4.5°C) in January. May and September are also great months to visit when it comes to experiences, yachting and sightseeing. In May, the air temperature is approximately 68.6°F (20.4°C) but the water is quite cold, only 62°F (17°C). September is a very comfortable month, with temperatures of 72°F (22.2°C) and still warm water around 70°F (21°C).

Before Visiting Krk  

When visiting the island resort of Krk in warm weather, travelers should take care of sun protection products, such as suncreams, sunglasses, and hats. It is best for a beach holiday to also have protective swimming shoes, because there are usually a lot of sea urchins and pebbles on the shore. Hiking and outdoor enthusiasts should bring comfortable hiking shoes and things like a backpack and water canister. The island has a developed infrastructure and as a rule, travelers can buy everything they need on the spot in one of the shops. There are also equipment rentals for water and other sports.

Festivals & Special Days in Krk

The cultural life on Krk is filled with events and festivals almost all year round. In December, the Medieval Festival takes place on Velika Placa. In June, the KVIR'n'BAS, the Krk Music Fest, and the International Folklore Festival all take place. In July there are such musical events as Ljetne Priredbe, the Velvet Festival, and Dani Malinske. The thematic Anticki Dani na Fulfinumu invites travelers to plunge into the history of ancient Rome in July. In addition, the Krk Regatta and the Promotiva Beach Volleyball Championship take place in July. The biggest fair takes place in August and is called Krcki Sajam - Lovreceva. In September there is a festival dedicated to wine and harvest called Dani Vina Otoka Krka. During the summer, small fishing festivals Krk Ribarske Feste take place in different towns on the island. In late April and early May, a large-scale bicycle tournament Proljece na Kotacima takes place on Krk, as well as the annual May wine festival Crna Ovca.

Nightlife in Krk

The nightlife of Krk Island is a good mixture of laid-back seaside taverns and epic modern clubs where guests can dance the night away. Nightclubs are located mainly in the town of Malinska in the very center. The relaxed bars tend to be in the town of Krk on the waterfront. 

- Club Boa

Club Boa is located in Malinska and offers visitors live music concerts and incendiary dances every night until the early hours. The interior of the club is a stylish combination of black and white colors in the light of a laser show, providing the atmosphere of the best European clubs. DJs perform with tracks of electronic music, disco, and hip-hop as well as Croatian pop. There are also regular pole dance performances from impressive professionals. The bar serves alcoholic cocktails mixed by professional bartenders such as Mojitos and Long Island Ice Teas as well as light snacks. 

- Porto Club Baska

Porto Club Baska is a stylish lounge bar located in the town of Baska at the beautiful Beach Vela. During the day, they offer breakfast, coffee, lunch and dinner on a spacious terrace overlooking the sea. Visitors can watch a stunning sunset with a perfectly mixed cocktail in hand and stay overnight for a fun party. There are also various live music performances with the participation of local musicians, as well as local DJs playing electronic tracks.

- Volsonis

Volsonis is a very unusual bar located in the town of Krk, in a 2000-year-old Roman archaeological site underground. Combining historical heritage and modernity, Volsonis has created something completely unique. Guests can see ancient underground towers and narrow corridors in this establishment. There is also a beautiful garden in which the ruins of the ancient Roman altar of the goddess Venus are located. Visitors can have breakfast or dinner here during the day, and listen to live music and drink a great cocktail at night. The menu features Croatian, European, Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. The bar offers guests a wide selection of different cocktails, wine, coffee and spirits.

- Casa Del Padrone

Casa Del Padrone is an elegant cafe and bar on the waterfront of Krk Town, which offers guests food, desserts, and coffee throughout the day in addition to its lively entertainment at night. There is a full food menu in addition to excellent alcoholic cocktails and different types of wine and beer. In the evening, this place becomes very lively, and there are various live music and DJ performances in the summer.

- Diamond Club

Diamond Club is located in the center of Malinska and is the best place to dance all night on Krk Island. This vibrant nightlife venue is inspired by the best European nightclubs and opened in 2022. It is an open-air arena with a stepped terrace, where there is a large area for dancing. There is a state-of-the-art audiovisual system, a laser show, and the best atmosphere for parties full of dancing. They offer a program with a select roster of international DJs and guest celebrities. Visitors are offered professionally mixed cocktails and light snacks from the bar.

Luxury / Fine Dining Restaurants in Krk

Krk Island offers fine dining experiences where gourmet chefs meticulously create fine examples of Croatian and Mediterranean dishes accompanied by stunning views and local wines.  The best of them are mainly located on the waterfront in the town of Krk or in the center of Malinska. The Croatian cuisine of Dalmatia was influenced by the sea and the proximity of Italy, so the menu contains a variety of fish dishes and seafood delicacies.

- Rivica

Rivica is a gourmet fish restaurant located on the waterfront in the village of Njivice and has been welcoming guests for 80 years. The homey interior feels warm and inviting with antique details and snow-white tablecloths. The menu includes fish dishes and sea delicacies, as well as some dishes of Croatian and European cuisines. Visitors especially love dishes such as the risotto with seafood and cuttlefish ink, the shark fillet in wine sauce, and the spaghetti with lobster.  Gourmet desserts like Madagascar chocolate with Dalmatian rose and the chocolate mousse with salt and pepper complete the perfect meal. There is also an extensive wine list of both Croatian and foreign vintages.

- Panorama

Panorama is a beautiful restaurant on a hill located in the town of Krk that serves Croatian, European, and Mediterranean cuisine as well as seafood. The relaxed atmosphere and beautiful views from the hilltop create the perfect setting for a laid-back dining experience.  Guests particularly love the pork dishes roasted on a spit, as well as excellent steaks.  The bar menu also has an extensive wine list with the best Croatian brands.

- Restaurant Frankopan

Frankopan is located in Krk Town near the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption. The elegant romantic restaurant offers a simple and refined interior with a romantic atmosphere. The open terrace is surrounded by a beautiful garden and offers a view of the old town square. The menu of the restaurant includes Croatian cuisine, Mediterranean dishes, as well as fish and seafood.  The most popular dishes are the lobster with their signature white wine sauce, the risotto with seafood, and the saddle of lamb stewed in a stone oven. The wine list is represented by Croatian varieties, and craft beer is also served here.

- Bistro Bukarica

Bistro Bukarica is a great establishment located in Malinska that gives guests the opportunity to try something new. The homey interior feels warm and inviting in vibrant shades of red and white. The kitchen combines traditional Croatian techniques with new and creative ideas. Popular menu items include grilled lamb, steak, seafood pizza, lobster, and homemade pasta. As for desserts, guests highly appreciate the chocolate souffle and cheesecakes. The bar offers Croatian wines, craft beers, and cocktails.

- Restaurant Konoba Nada

The magnificent Restaurant Konoba Nada is located in the town of Vrbnik and offers guests Croatian, Mediterranean, and European tastes on a luxurious white terrace overlooking the endless blue sea. There is also a quiet room and a terrace on the ground floor overlooking the old stone streets. Guests can try dishes such as seafood risotto, grilled king prawns, steaks with seasonal vegetables, and lobster. The wine list contains the best varieties of Croatian and foreign wines.

- Galija

The atmospheric restaurant Galija is located in the center of the Old Town in Krk and offers the authentic atmosphere of a real Croatian tavern and superb sea views from the terrace. The spacious hall with an ivy-covered ceiling is conducive to long feasts in a cozy atmosphere, and the menu will offer, in addition to the national cuisine, Mediterranean and European dishes. Popular menu items include grilled lamb on a spit, fried octopus, grilled shrimp, pizza, steaks, pasta with seafood, and much more. Galija offers a good selection of craft beers, local wines, and various other tinctures and liqueurs.