Rijeka Carnival: bell ringers and parades on the Adriatic

Rijeka hosts one of the largest carnivals in this part of Europe, with weeks of events leading up to a big international parade. The port city fills with masks, music and noisy bell ringers from the surrounding villages.

Fun facts

• The bell ringers (zvončari) from the Kastav area are on UNESCO's intangible heritage list.
• Rijeka was European Capital of Culture in 2020.
• The carnival draws groups from many countries to its final parade.

What to see

• The International Carnival Parade through the city centre.
• The Korzo promenade and the City Clock Tower.
• Trsat Castle on the hill above the city.

What to taste

• Fritule, small doughnuts dusted with sugar.
• Kroštule, crispy fried pastry ribbons.
• Kvarner scampi, prized shellfish from the local bay.

What to do

• Watch the zvončari ring their bells in the villages.
• Take a trip to the seaside resort of Opatija.
• Explore the Rijeka market for local products.

💡 Tip: Rijeka airport is on the island of Krk, with buses to the city. Zagreb, Pula and Trieste airports are other options.