While in the area, here are three top sites you cannot miss. Easily accessible by car as a day or half day trip.

# 1 - Plitvice Lakes National Park

What?

National Park reserve in central Croatia. It's known for a chain of 16 terraced lakes, joined by waterfalls, that extend into a limestone canyon.

Where?

Between Zagreb and Opatija, about a 2.5 hr drive away.

Stay?

Can be visited while transiting between Opatija to Zagreb or down the Adriatic coast, or vice versa. Ethno Houses offers luxury accommodations minutes from the park gates.

Advice?

Book in advance and chose your day and time. Park open 7am - 7pm. Try to visit early or later to avoid crowds. Temperatures cooler during this time of year in this part of Croatia. October is an excellent time to visit with fall colors.

# 2 - Skocjan Caves

What?

UNESCO designated caves that evoke the feeling of walking onto the set of The Hobbit.

Where?

1.25 hr dive north of Opatija. Caves in Slovenia near Italy border.

Stay?

Only 30 minutes from Trieste or 1 hr from Ljubljana.

Advice?

Must purchase as a tour in advance to visit caves with a specific date and time. Tours are every hour starting at 10am and ending at 3pm.

# 3 - Rovinj

What?

The ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ is a Venetian settlement with a rich history. A tangle of cobbled streets leads to the hilltop church of St. Euphemia, whose towering steeple dominates the skyline.

Where?

1.5 hr drive west of Opatija. On the Istrian Peninsula.

Stay?

Monte Mulini by Maistra Collection offers premium accommodations with pebbled beaches.

Advice?

Park here and explore town on foot.