Head right to Korzo, Rijeka's pedestrian promenade that runs parallel to the port. There you will see Rijeka's most distinctive monument, the Clock Tower. As one of the few monuments to have survived Rijeka's devastating earthquake of 1750, it has a special place in the hearts of Rijekans. The still-functioning clock dates from the 17th century and was once part of the city gates.

Go through the arch under the clock tower and you'll come to the Roman gate. Don't expect the kind of triumphal arch you'll see in Pula: this Roman gate is a simple affair just to mark the entrance to the ancient and now disappeared Roman fort.

Now return to Korzo and head west to the Hotel Bonavia. Adjacent to the hotel are stairs leading to the former Governor's Palace. The building's architecture reflects its administrative importance as the residence of the Hungarian governor when Rijeka was under Hungarian control in 1869. If you liked the architecture in Budapest you'll love this impressive structure. The architect was Alajos Hauszmann whose other works include the Buda Castle and the Palace of Justice in Budapest. Inside is the Naval & Historical Museum, with plenty of exhibits for maritime-buffs. Also interesting are the rooms decorated in period style. A little further to the northeast is the Natural History Museum, an especially good stop if you have kids. They'll love the new aquarium with its multimedia displays and the botanical gardens make a cool retreat on a hot day.