Things To Do
in Lošinj

Lošinj is a sun-drenched Croatian island in the northern Adriatic famed for crystal-clear waters and pine-fringed coves. The archipelago centers around Mali Lošinj and Veli Lošinj, offering a relaxed maritime vibe and charming stone towns. Rich in marine life, lavender-scented air, and wellness retreats, it’s a haven for nature lovers and curious travelers alike.

Cultural highlights include the Apoksiomen Museum and traditional coastal cuisine rooted in sea harvests and olive oil.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in Mali Lošinj, where you can enjoy fresh pastries and coffee while soaking in the coastal atmosphere. After breakfast, take a stroll through the charming streets, admiring the historic architecture and vibrant flowers that adorn the old town. Don't forget to stop by the Church of St. Nicholas, which showcases stunning Baroque architecture and offers a glimpse into the island's rich history.

afternoon
:

After a morning of exploration, indulge in a delicious seafood lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants, where you can savor the catch of the day accompanied by local wines. Following lunch, visit the Lošinj Museum to learn more about the island's maritime heritage and cultural significance. Spend the rest of the afternoon wandering the scenic promenade, enjoying the views of the harbor and the surrounding hills.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, find a cozy spot at a seaside bar to enjoy a refreshing cocktail while watching the sky transform into hues of orange and pink. Later, dine at a traditional konoba (tavern) where you can experience authentic Croatian cuisine, including local specialties like grilled fish and homemade pasta. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the beach, taking in the calming sounds of the waves and the twinkling stars above.

day 2
Beach and Water Sports
morning
:

Begin your day by heading to the beautiful Cikat Bay, known for its crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches. Rent a sunbed and umbrella to relax under the sun, or dive right in for a refreshing swim in the Adriatic Sea. If you're feeling adventurous, consider trying out paddleboarding or kayaking to explore the stunning coastline from a different perspective.

afternoon
:

After a morning of fun in the sun, enjoy a light lunch at a beachside café, where you can feast on fresh salads and grilled seafood. Spend your afternoon indulging in water sports such as jet skiing or windsurfing, giving you an adrenaline rush while enjoying the scenic views. Alternatively, unwind on the beach with a good book and soak up the Mediterranean sun.

evening
:

As the day winds down, treat yourself to a sunset dinner at a restaurant overlooking the bay, where you can savor local wines and the freshest seafood dishes. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the beach promenade, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere created by street performers and vendors. Conclude your evening with a gelato from a local shop, indulging in the sweet flavors as you enjoy the warm evening breeze.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🍽️Three-course meal for two$40-70
🏖️Beach chair rental$5-15
🛍️Groceries for a day$20-40
Coffee in a cafe$2-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning coastline and clear waters
  • Rich marine life and wellness offerings
  • Compact size makes it easy to explore by foot or bike
  • Limited nightlife outside peak season
  • Some services are seasonal and locations can be quieter in winter
  • "Dobar dan" - Good day / Hello
  • "Molim" - Please
  • "Hvala" - Thank you
  • "Gdje je toalet?" - Where is the toilet?
  • "Koliko košta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Izvinite" - Excuse me

Places to Visit in Lošinj

Visit one of these nice places.

Mali Lošinj Old Town & Harbor

Pastel houses, fishing boats, and golden sunsets along the quay create quintessential Adriatic scenes.

Čikat Bay & Pine Forest Shoreline

A dramatic combination of turquoise water and pine-fringed coast, ideal for wide-angle and sunset shots.

Apoksiomen Museum Waterfront

Modern architecture with the bronze Apoksiomen statue and reflective water surfaces for artistic angles.

Osor's Medieval Bridge & River Valley

Stone lanes and a scenic valley offering atmospheric landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Lošinj

Lošinj’s cuisine emphasizes fresh seafood, olive oil, capers, herbs, and locally produced honey and lavender products. Expect Mediterranean flavors, simple preparations that let the ingredients shine, and seasonal catches from the Adriatic Sea.

Lošinj Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Crni rižot (squid ink risotto)

Creamy risotto tinted with squid ink, usually served with tender seafood and lemon.

Must-Try!

Brudet od ribe (fish stew)

Slow-simmered tomato- and herb-infused fish stew, typically finished with white wine and garlic.

Grillirane sardine (grilled sardines) with olive oil and lemon

Fresh Sardines grilled simply, drizzled with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon.

Lošinjsko maslinovo ulje (island olive oil) & lavender honey

Try the island’s fragrant olive oil and honey as condiments or gifts.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mali Lošinj Market (daily market)

Fresh seafood, vegetables, olive oil, herbs, and regional products harvested locally.

Ribarnica (fish market)

Catches of the day with on-site grilling options and market-side tastings.

Climate Guide

Weather

Lošinj enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers (average highs near 28-30°C) and mild winters. The sea remains pleasantly warm in late spring and early autumn, with most rainfall occurring in autumn and winter.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings & language

A firm handshake and a friendly greeting are standard; say 'Dobar dan' (Good day) and 'Hvala' (Thank you).

Dress & modesty

Casual and neat attire is typical; modest dress when visiting religious sites. Swimwear is for beaches only.

Environmental respect

Respect nature, dispose of trash properly, and avoid disturbing wildlife or leaving markers on the landscape.

Safety Guide

Safety

Overall safety is high for travelers; petty theft is the main concern in crowded tourist areas. Practice typical coastal safety: mind sea conditions when swimming, use sun protection, and keep valuables secure in crowded spots.

Tipping in Lošinj

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is customary if service is not included; rounding up at cafes is common.

Payment Methods

Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash (EUR) is still common in markets and smaller shops; some places may accept local currencies only seasonally.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Peak heat and long days; vibrant town life, sailing, and beach days; book restaurants and ferries ahead.

Spring

Cooler, mild weather with blooming flora; great for hiking and quieter coastal towns.

Autumn

Pleasant temperatures and calmer seas; good for wine and olive oil tastings and coastal walks.

Winter

Milder than mainland Europe but cooler and quieter; limited services outside Mali Lošinj and some villages.

Nightlife Guide

Lošinj at Night

Lošinj’s nightlife tends to be relaxed and family-friendly, centered around harbor-front bars and seasonal live music in Mali Lošinj. In peak months, some venues offer sunset concerts, wine tastings, and small clubs, but the island stays largely laid-back compared to larger cities.

Hiking in Lošinj

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Osoršćica Trail

Steep climb with expansive views toward Cres and surrounding islets.

Coastal trail along the northwest coast

Moderate hikes with sea views and opportunities to stop at coves.

Airports

How to reach Lošinj by plane.

Rijeka Airport (RJK)

Small international airport with seasonal flights and connections to Zagreb and other European hubs.

Pula Airport (PUY)

Regional airport with seasonal international flights and easy access to Istria and northern Croatia.

Zagreb Airport (ZAG)

Main international hub; from here you can connect to Rijeka or take land routes or ferries to Lošinj.

Lošinj Airport (LSZ)

On-island airstrip serving seasonal routes and charters; convenient for quick arrivals during peak season.

Getting Around

Walkability

The main towns on Lošinj are highly walkable along the harbor and old-town streets; some hillside villages require stairs and a short hike, so a light vehicle or cycling can be helpful for wider island exploration.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Locals

Long-standing residents with strong fishing and tourism traditions.

Seasonal visitors

Crowd influx peaks in summer for beaches, wellness, and nature activities.

Expats & second-home owners

Some non-residents who visit or reside part-time, especially in warmer months.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Sailing

A natural fit given the island’s marinas and reliable coastal winds.

Diving & snorkeling

Explore underwater caves, reefs, and abundant Adriatic life.

Kayaking & paddleboarding

Calm bays and sheltered coves ideal for beginners and families.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is light inside the island towns; during summer, expect more vehicles and ferries between Cres and Lošinj. Roads are winding but well maintained; public transport is limited between villages, so renting a car or scooter is common for island-wide exploration.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Lošinj.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Choose plant-based dishes with olive oil, seasonal vegetables, and cheese; request seafood-free versions of risottos or grilled vegetables when dining out.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is available on Lošinj through local clinics and pharmacies; for major hospital services, you may travel to Rijeka or Zadar. Croatia has universal healthcare; travelers should carry their EHIC if applicable and consider travel insurance for supplementary coverage.

Discover Croatia

Read more in our Croatia 2025 Travel Guide.

Croatia Travel Guide