Essential Preparations: Rijeka

Planning Timeline

A structured approach to your trip planning makes for a smooth experience.

Phased Planning Approach

Divide your preparations into manageable steps leading up to departure.

Months Before

Passport Validity

Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your return from the Schengen Area.

Flight Bookings

Book flights, especially during high season, for better rates and preferred schedules.

Accommodation Research

Research and book your main accommodations, notably popular hotels or apartments.

Month Before

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance to cover medical emergencies or cancellations. World Nomads

Ground Transport

Plan your day trips and ground transportation, including rental cars or ferries.

Local Connectivity

Arrange for a local SIM card or activate international roaming on your phone.

Week Before

Document Checklist

Pack all essential documents: passport, visa, IDP, and reservation copies.

Offline Maps

Download offline maps, like Google Maps or Maps.me, for navigation without internet.

Currency Exchange

Convert some currency to Euros or plan your initial ATM withdrawals upon arrival.

Required Advance Bookings

Confirming elements of your trip in advance for peace of mind.

Essential Reservations

Flights should be booked well ahead of time.
Secure your main accommodation, especially during peak season.
A rental car (if needed) merits an advance booking.
Any popular tours warrant pre-booking.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Enrich your visit with background on Rijeka's unique character.

Deepening Your Knowledge

Read up on Rijeka's unique history as a port city.
Familiarize yourself with its industrial heritage.
Learn basic Croatian phrases to ease communication.
Check current events calendars for local happenings.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Secure your home and arrange for necessities while you are away.

Security Measures

Secure your home by locking doors and windows.
Notify neighbors of your absence.
Arrange for mail collection.
Arrange for pet sitting if needed.

Financial & Administrative Tasks

Pay any bills due during your travel period.
Notify your bank of travel plans.
Make copies of important documents.
Set up automatic payments if possible.

Household Maintenance

Turn off unnecessary lights and electronics.
Arrange for plant care.
Empty perishables from the refrigerator.
Turn off main water supply if leaving for an extended period.

Final Checks

Charge all your electronics, including phones, power banks, and cameras. Notify your emergency contacts of your itinerary.

Arrival Checklist

These first steps upon arrival assist you in settling into Rijeka quickly.

Immediate Steps Upon Arrival

1
Immigration & Customs:
Clear immigration and customs procedures.
2
Luggage Collection:
Collect your luggage from the baggage claim.
3
Local SIM Card:
Activate your local SIM card or confirm roaming service functionality.

Initial Orientation & Purchases

Currency:
Withdraw Euros from an ATM or exchange money.
Transfer:
Locate your pre-arranged or chosen airport/station transfer.
Neighborhood Exploration:
Take a short walk around your immediate neighborhood to familiarize yourself.

Getting Settled

Accommodation First

Head directly to your accommodation to drop off your luggage.

Settle in before exploring further.

Local Information

Visit a local tourist information office for city maps.

Obtain current event information.

Smart Spending

Use ATMs for the best Euro withdrawal rates.

Avoid airport exchange offices unless necessary.

Arrival Efficiency

Upon arrival, head directly to your accommodation. Locate the nearest ATM, grocery store, and public transport stop.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure to make for a stress-free end to your Rijeka trip.

Last-Minute Logistics

Factor in time for last-minute souvenir shopping.
If shipping items, inquire about services and costs at local post offices.
Non-EU residents may qualify for a VAT refund; ask for a "Tax Free" form at participating stores.
Present the VAT form, your passport, and goods at customs before final EU departure.

Return Trip Planning

Confirm your flight, bus, or ferry times.
Ensure all your documents are readily accessible.
Check out of your accommodation according to their policy.
Allow ample time for airport or station transfers, especially during peak hours.

Important Reminders

Double-check these items before heading to your departure point.

Checklist for Departure Day

All personal belongings packed?Yes/No
Accommodation keys returned?Yes/No
Any pending payments settled?Yes/No
Chargers and adapters retrieved?Yes/No

Smooth Exit Strategy

Arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before international flights.
Confirm check-in and security procedures for your airline.
Plan your route to the airport or station considering traffic.
Ensure luggage meets size and weight restrictions.

Final Departure Notes

Ensure all travel documents are ready and easily accessible for your departure.

A systematic approach to your final tasks makes for a calm exit from Rijeka.

Essential Preparations