I'm going to be flying into Rijeka on September 16 and planned on staying two nights in or around Opatija, Rovinj, Pula. Would you recommend one place over another? I'm traveling by myself, so I'll probably try to find a sobe or inexpensive (but decent) inn. Thanks for your help!

Last May, I spent 4 nights in Opatija, but took a day trip to Rovinj. Based on this, I would say it's a toss up. My first reaction was go for Rovinj. I loved my day there!

However, I enjoyed the day in Opatija that I walked the Lunge Mare, a six mile seaside walk. I might vote for Lovran which is just a few miles outside of Opatija on the coast walk. It seemed quieter and more "real" whereas Opatija was definitely touristy. A bus connects the two towns so you can do the walk one way and ride home.

Thanks for the advice Teacher33. I appreciate it.

You might care to look at the article 'Istrian Interludes' in hidden europe 9 (July 2006) where you can catch the flavor of all three places you mention, plus others besides. All depends on what you are looking for. Opatija tends towards staidness, Pula is a working port with an industrial air. Of the three, I personally would favor Rovinj as tops - and by a long chalk. One you've not mentioned, which I would rate even higher, is Piran (just over the Slovenian border). So, in summary, my first choice Piran, and then Rovinj second.
Hope this helps.
Nicky
http://www.hiddeneurope.co.uk

Teacher33 -
I'm intrigued by the Lunge Mare walk and wondering if you can describe it a little more. Is it like a hiking trail? Level of difficulty? Thanks!

The walk is a delight. Views of the sea are on one side and on the other are wild places with lots of wildflowers or elegant gardens which run down to the walk. The walk is wide and stone paved in some places and ground in others. The slopes are gentle. There are sunny spots, but lots of shade as well.

There are lots of places where steps will take you up to the main r5oad where you can grab a local bus if the walk gets tiring. Likewise you can go up and get a drink or something to eat and then resume your walk.

There are benches along the way and steps down to the seaside where you can sit and have a picnic if that is your choice.

As you approach Opatija, you will walk along the edge of terraces in front of some hotels--also a place to stop for lunch or a drink.

There are lots of little harbors full of boats as you walk along.

It was not crowded in May when I was there. I met people of all ages strolling along as well as some who were setting a blistering paces. Several times stopped for a view and chatted with others enjoying the same view.

Hope this helps.

Don't forget Porec - one of the leading centers for nudist resorts in Europe.

Beyond that claim to fame, Porec is also a beautiful town and well worth visiting or staying in.