Protected from cold winds, in the middle of a rich vegetation, with all advantages of a moderate Mediterranean climate, Opatija represents the centre of a Riviera with the longest tradition in tourism. In any time during the year, Opatija offers various events, entertainment and festivals, regats and tournaments. Established in the end of the 19th century as a place for winter vacations for the Austrian-Hungarian court, Opatija tries to revalorize its rich tradition, its architectural harmony, and gardens. In November 2007, a Croatian museum of tourism was opened in Vila ANGIOLINI – a museum of national level, the first kind in Croatia. A special experience is a walk down the Lungomare which is 10 km long, the museum exhibitions within the project “Opatija – the city museum of Central Europe” and the Croatian road of fame where renouned scientists, artists and famous sportsmen which promote Croatian in the world in the best possible way, are awarded with stars. Opatija is one of the leading congress destinations of Croatia with a rich gastro and wellness offer in the Thalasso-wellness center and in hotels who, in the most part, have 4 and 5 stars.