The year is 1900. A train from Vienna has just arrived at the Opatija–Matulji station, bringing fresh pastries for the confectionery located in today’s Juraj Šporer Art Pavilion. Its owner is Swiss chocolatier Emil Gerbeaud, after whom the famous Gerbeaud (Žarbo) slices are named. It is therefore fitting that the pavilion has become one of the must-visit locations of the Opatija Chocolate Festival—a delicacy with a long tradition in this town.
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Chocolate in hundred ways
For many years now, Opatija has transformed into the capital of chocolate during the first weekend of November, hosting Croatia’s longest-running event dedicated to this beloved treat. The central part of the three-day festival is the “Chocolate Magic” event at the Gervais Centre, where top chocolatiers and pastry chefs present their chocolate creations to more than 10,000 visitors.
Do you prefer classic flavors? You can indulge in favorites like chocolate with hazelnuts or a slice of Sacher cake. If you have an adventurous spirit, pralines with intriguing fillings such as limoncello, pistachio and lemon, or tropical fruits might catch your interest. For those who enjoy experimenting, expect surprises like cheese with chocolate or chocolate infused with spices. Whatever form of chocolate you love, you’ll find something just right among the offerings of top craft producers.
Opatija in the spirit of chocolate
The chocolate adventure doesn’t stop there. The rich fair program is complemented by demonstrations from master pastry chefs and presentations by international exhibitors. During the festival, the entire town of Opatija celebrates chocolate—local musicians prepare themed performances, while libraries and museums host lectures and exhibitions. If you’ve ever wondered how Opatija’s iconic symbols would look in chocolate form, the festival will reveal this through spectacular chocolate sculptures.
Your own chocolate creations
If these chocolate sculptures inspire you to create your own, there’s a place where your chocolate fantasies can come true—Milenij Choco World. Let your imagination run wild by drawing with chocolate, and enjoy the special moment of breaking large chocolate bars and tasting them. If you’d like a more lasting memory, workshops and masterclasses offer the chance to learn tempering, filling, and baking your own chocolate creations. Children can join in or enjoy a fun kids’ corner while you participate.
Chocolate-Inspired Gastronomy and Wellness Experiences
Thanks to the festival, chocolate flows throughout Opatija all November—in restaurants, cafés, and wellness centers. Restaurants offer gourmet experiences with a touch of chocolate, whether in creamy soups or paired with meat dishes and white chocolate sauces. Cafés invite you to relax with chocolate cocktails during a stroll, while wellness centers help you unwind with chocolate-based facial treatments or massages with chocolate oil.
Chocolate is an easily accessible piece of happiness. Whether you enjoy timeless classics or explore new flavors, we invite you to experience that happiness in Opatija.