Kvarner

Kvarner is a geographic region in western Croatia on the northern Adriatic Sea. It includes the Kvarner Gulf (Kvarnerski zaljev) and the surrounding coastal area, and encompasses several major islands, notably Krk, Cres, Lošinj and Rab. The regional center is Rijeka, a major port city, with resort towns such as Opatija and Crikvenica along its shores.

The Kvarner Gulf lies between the Istrian Peninsula to the west and the Cres–Lošinj archipelago to the southeast, with Krk island linking the northern Istrian coast to the Croatian mainland. The coastline is irregular, with numerous bays and coves, and the sea deepens quickly in places, supporting busy maritime traffic and a popular tourist trade.

The economy is strongly oriented toward tourism, supported by seaside towns, islands and hospitality facilities. The Port of Rijeka is one of the largest Croatian ports and handles cargo and passenger traffic; ferry and coastal shipping provide regular links to the islands. The Krk Bridge connects the island of Krk with the mainland and is a key cross-regional transport link.

Historically the region has served as a crossroads between Central Europe and the Adriatic, bearing influences from ancient Greek and Roman periods and later Venetian and Austro-Hungarian rule. The area features a mix of architectural styles and local dialects, with seafaring and fishing communities shaping its culture. The climate is temperate Mediterranean, with mild winters and warm summers, contributing to a long tourist season.