The Golden Age of Travel Revived in Opatija: Lavish Exhibition on 100 Years of the Esplanade and the Orient Express Opens
Last night, the Croatian Museum of Tourism in Opatija hosted the grand opening of the exhibition In the Glow of Luxury and Elegance, dedicated to the 100th anniversary of Hotel Esplanade and the Croatian routes of the Orient Express. The festive opening attracted an impressive number of visitors who filled every corner of the historic Villa Angiolina.
The evening was a true journey through time – the event opened with a 1920s-style dance performance by the Flame Dance Studio from Rijeka, bringing the glamour and elegance of a bygone era to life. The exhibition was officially opened with speeches by Ivica Max Krizmanić, General Manager of Hotel Esplanade; Nataša Ivančević, Director of the Croatian Museum of Tourism; and Tamara Sergo, representative of the Mayor of Opatija and Head of the Department of Finance and Social Affairs of the City of Opatija. The atmosphere was further enriched by the iconic flavors of Esplanade’s štrukli, desserts, and cocktails.
Running until October 31, the exhibition offers visitors a chance to explore the history of two legendary symbols of luxury – Zagreb’s Hotel Esplanade, celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, and the famous Orient Express, later known as the Simplon-Orient-Express.
The exhibition provides insight into the rich, century-long history of Hotel Esplanade – from the original design competition, through its construction in 1925 and its lavish interiors, to the important role it played in the social and cultural life of Zagreb. Visitors can experience the elegance of its luxurious interior, view fashion pieces created especially for elite balls held in the hotel’s grand ballroom, explore international menus, and learn about the many famous guests who stayed at this iconic hotel. Architectural plans by Dionis Sunko, photographs of the hotel’s salons, original hotel dinnerware, dance programs, glamorous gowns, shoes, and hats are just some of the exhibits on display.
The second part of the exhibition is dedicated to the legendary Orient Express and its successor, the Simplon-Orient-Express. Visitors embark on a historical journey – from learning about Georges Nagelmackers, the train’s founder and owner, to lesser-known stories like the 1906 initiative by the Zagreb Chamber of Commerce to change the train’s route and push for the construction of the Simplon Tunnel. The journey continues through the post–World War I era, when the Simplon-Orient-Express began service, paralleled by the development of tourism in Opatija and its link to the arrival of passengers on this luxurious train. The Southern Railway Company played a key role in the growth of Opatija’s tourism industry, investing in the town since the late 19th century, and its cooperation with the International Sleeping-Car Company further connected Opatija with passengers arriving from Trieste and Venice.
Model trains, the Opatija tram, and the Opatija-Matulji railway station models are a true treat for scale model enthusiasts. Original posters, brochures, and furniture replicas from the train’s interiors add a unique atmosphere to the exhibition.
Many exhibits sparked great interest – visitors carefully examined every detail, and the exhibition delighted all lovers of travel, trains, fashion, history, and luxury. The entire evening was accompanied by music from DJ Vedran, whose rhythms set the tone for dancing, good vibes, and a cheerful atmosphere among the many guests and familiar faces.
At the opening, Hotel Esplanade treated guests to its renowned baked štrukli, as well as a collection of exquisite desserts prepared by the Esplanade pastry team and head chef Ana Grgić Tomić. Guests toasted with Italian prosecco Villa Sandi, and enjoyed Benvenuti wines and Fever Tree gin & tonics, provided by partner Miva Wine Gallery. Esplanade’s cocktail master, Vjenceslav Madić – Master Kishoni – prepared creative cocktails with the support of partner Brza distribucija. Refreshments in the form of natural Acqua Panna and S. Pellegrino mineral waters were provided by Pago d.o.o.
The exhibition remains open until October 31, and all those interested are invited to step into a world of luxury, elegance, and history that shaped some of the most exciting chapters of European tourism.
Organizers: Croatian Museum of Tourism and Hotel Esplanade Zagreb
In collaboration with: HŽ Infrastruktura d.o.o. / Croatian Railway Museum
Concept and exhibition curator: Dr. Nataša Ivančević
Curator’s assistant: Matea Plišić
Texts by: Matea Plišić, Renata Veličan
Exhibition designer: Lada Sega
Design and graphic layout: Wanda Design
Media promotion: Ivan Modrić
See you at Villa Angiolina!
We are open every day except Mondays and public holidays from 10 AM to 6 PM.
For more information, visit the link: About the Exhibition
DOWNLOAD PHOTOS (Photo by Bruno Fantulin) via the link: 100 Years of Esplanade & Orient Express – Opatija
Published: Zagreb, 19 September 2025
