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Continental Croatia meets the Adriatic in Istria (Istra to Croats), the heart-shaped, 3600-sq-km peninsula in the country's northwest. The bucolic interior of rolling hills and fertile plains attracts food- and culture-focused visitors to Istria’s hilltop villages, rural hotels and farmhouse restaurants, while the indented coastline is enormously popular with the sun-and-sea set. Though vast hotel complexes line much of the coast and the rocky beaches are not Croatia’s best, facilities are wide-ranging, the sea is clean and secluded spots are still plentiful.

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Istria Itinerary – Most Beautiful Places to Visit on Croatia’s Istrian Peninsula

Top Places to Visit in Istria - Itinerary and Travel Guide to Discover the Charms of the Istrian Peninsula

Are you ready to fall in love with the Istrian Peninsula, Croatia? Our Istria itinerary highlights the most charming places to visit in Istria, from medieval towns and breath-taking scenery to ancient ruins and the beautiful coast of the Adriatic Sea. If you are wondering what to see and which places to visit on the Istrian Peninsula, continue reading and start planning your ultimate Istrian Peninsula road trip.

The heart-shaped Istrian peninsula is one of the most charming places in Croatia, and the fact it has successfully stayed under the radar of mass tourism for such a long time is an added bonus. However, things are changing quickly and in recent years, more and more tourists have been visiting Istria, Croatia. So our advice is to start planning your Istria itinerary ASAP if you want a chance to explore the highlights of the Istrian peninsula before it loses its charm.

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Table of Contents

Where is the istrian peninsula located.

The Istrian peninsula is the largest peninsula in Croatia. It is located in the westernmost part of Croatia at the head of the Adriatic between the Gulf of Trieste and Kvarner Bay. The peninsula is shared by Croatia, Italy and Slovenia, though the most substantial part belongs to Croatia. When talking about the Istrian peninsula we can talk about blue Istria (along the coast) and green Istria (inland).

Green and Blue Istria Highlights

So why should you visit the Istrian peninsula when there are so many other charming places all over Croatia? The answer is simple enough; the Istrian peninsula is different from any other county in Croatia. We fell in love with the beautiful scenery, stunning medieval towns and fishing villages, food scene and the unique atmosphere. When talking about Istria, imagine there are actually two different parts you can explore. Along the coast, you’ll find blue Istria with its charming coastal towns and marinas, colorful Venetian houses, seafood restaurants, stunning beaches and luxurious hotels. The inner areas of the Istrian peninsula are referred to as Green Istria. When traveling around these parts of the peninsula, you’ll see vineyards and olive groves, photogenic medieval towns perched on cliffs, agricultural landscape and a general rustic and homey vibe which means less posh accommodation choices.

There are a couple of cities in Istria and a few small towns, but you’ll mostly find villages in Istria, the majority of which are located in Green Istria. According to the Croatian census, there are over 500 villages in Istria. An average Istrian village has a community of about 100 people. Some might have over 300 inhabitants, but there are also villages which are populated by only a dozen of people and some are completely deserted. So what are some the highlights of the Istrian peninsula in our opinion?

• Some of the most stunning towns in Croatia are located on the Istrian peninsula: Rovinj , Poreč and Motovun, to name a few.
• Breathtaking scenery of rolling hills, olive groves, vineyards and the hues of blue, green and turquoise of the Adriatic Sea.
• A foodie scene with an emphasis on truffles, wine, olive oil and seafood.
• Old traditional charm combined with a unique mixture of Italian-Croatian atmosphere.
• Beautiful rocky and pebble beaches where you can enjoy the Adriatic Sea without the crowds
• A unique focus on hiking and cycling trails so you can plan an active vacation combined with wine tasting.

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Top Places to Visit on the Istrian Peninsula for Your Istria Itinerary

Days 1-3 Blue Istria Road Trip

Day 1 – rovinj - the most charming town on the istrian peninsula.

Rovinj is our favorite town in Istria. Once you visit it, you’ll understand why we recommend staying here for your first few nights. From the moment we started exploring Rovinj’s old town, we couldn’t have enough of the colorful houses and Mediterranean atmosphere. Rovinj’s old town used to be an island so while you are strolling through the narrow cobbled streets, try and find these bottom porches that will reward you with beautiful views of the Adriatic Sea. There are hidden gems behind every corner, cool cafes, unique boutiques, colorful houses with photogenic laundry lines and many more such treasures are waiting to be found.

Things to See in Rovinj

• Getting lost in Rovinj’s old town (if you want to learn more about the history of Rovinj, check out this walking guided tour .
• Visiting St. Euphemia Church and its Bell Tower
• Looking for Balbi’s Arch and Rovinj Town Clock
• Wandering around Rovinj Harbor
• Looking for the famous Rovinj viewpoints
• Watching the sunset from one of the sea-front coffee shops and bars
• Exploring Rovinj Archipelago

Where to Stay in Rovinj

We stayed at Residence Rovinj , a cute hotel with its own parking lot that was within walking distance to the old town. If you have a car, make sure your hotel has a parking lot. We loved the intimate and friendly atmosphere, the large rooms and good breakfast. It’s a good choice for mid-range accommodation. 

If you’d like to stay at the heart of the old town, Hotel Adriatic is an excellent choice. This luxurious boutique hotel provides beautiful views and is situated at the heart of Rovinj’s old town. You’ll also find one of the best restaurants in town inside the hotel. 

For a more budget-friendly choice, try the cozy but stylish The Melegran that also has a very central location and excellent reviews. 

For all hotels and apartments in Rovinj, check prices here

Check out our Rovinj Guide for more attractions, helpful tips and places to stay in Rovinj

Day 2 – Pula and Cape Kamenjak

Pula – best place to see ancient roman ruins in istria.

On day 2 of your itinerary, it’s time to discover the southern part of the Istrian peninsula. Within a relatively short car ride from Rovinj, you’ll find Pula, the largest city on the Istrian peninsula where you’ll also find an international airport. Pula has some of the best ancient Roman ruins in the area and some charming alleys of its own.

What to See in Pula

• Visit Pula Arena – one of the most well-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world
• Check out the Roman Forum
• Walk under the Arch of Sergii
• Enjoy the View from Fort Kaštel
• Stop by the House of Istrian Olive Oil
• Take a paddle-board tour or go kayaking and snorkeling around the sea caves along Pula coast with any of these recommended tours .

Where to Stay in Pula

Cape kamenjak – for rugged beaches and seascapes photography, things to do on cape kamenjak.

The Kamenjak Peninsula or Peninsula of Premantura is located at the southernmost point of Istria. It’s a protected reserve with a beautiful rugged coastline, stunning beaches and coves, and hiking and cycling trails . Other than gorgeous beaches, the Premantura Peninsula is home to more than 500 plant species, including 20 orchid species. It is located only a short drive away from Pula. You can also go cliff jumping or kayaking in the area.  

Day 3 – A Road Trip along the Coast of the Istrian Peninsula to Lim Fjord, Poreč and Novigrad

The third day on your itinerary is dedicated to a road trip along the northern part of the Adriatic coast along the Istrian peninsula. This area of Istria is dotted with beautiful fishing towns, stunning beaches and some breathtaking views, such as the stunning Lim Bay.

Lim Fjord – Best Place to Visit in Istria for Fresh Oysters and Stunning Views

Things to do in lim fjord.

• Take a boat ride to explore the bay
• Eat fresh oysters and mussels
• Rest at the tiny beach
• Admire the views and beautiful scenery

Poreč – Beautiful Historic Center and the Euphrasian Basilica

If for some reason, you’d rather stay at a different town than Rovinj, Poreč is probably one of the best places to stay along the coast of the Istrian Peninsula. It offers just the right mixture of historical monuments, charming cobbled streets, lovely beaches and foodie and night scenes.

Things to See and Do in Poreč

• Visit the Euphrasian Basilica – A UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Wander around the Historic Center of Poreč
• Walk along the two main streets, Decumanus and Cardo Maximus
• Stop by the main square – Marafor
• Check out the Round Tower where you’ll find Torre Rotonda Caffé Bar
• Visit Poreč Heritage Museum

Where to Stay in Poreč

If you’re looking for a central location, Valamar Riviera Hotel & Residence is a great choice. With its modern design, rich breakfast and private beach on the nearby Sveti Nikola island (free shuttle boat), it offers some great deals on rooms throughout the year. You can check other accommodation choices here .

Novigrad – For a Mixture of Excellent Food, Beaches and History

Novigrad is located just north of Poreč, and it has been gaining a name for itself as a foodie town. Other than excellent restaurants, you’ll find here lovely beaches and a charming historic center.

Things to See and Do in Novigrad

• Visit the charming old town
• Look for the local churches and bell towers
• Visit the Maritime Museum
• Explore the beaches and visit the water sports center
• Visit some of the best restaurants on the Istrian peninsula

Where to Stay in Novigrad

Check out the smart Boutique Hotel Rivalmare which is beautifully designed and is situated just near the old town and the beach. You can check other options for hotels and apartments in Novigrad here .

For detailed guides for some of the top places to visit in Istria, check out our Rovinj Day Trips Guide

Days 4-6 Green Istria Road Trip

After spending a couple of nights in Rovinj, it was time for us to start our journey to discover the charms of the inner parts of the Istrian peninsula. We spent the next couple of nights in Oprtalj, a small town with breathtaking views that is located very close to Motovun.

Day 4-5 - Oprtalj, Motovun, Grožnjan and Buje

Oprtalj – for stunning views and medieval charm.

Oprtalj (or Portole in Italian) is one of the most picturesque towns in Green Istria. To be honest, there is not too much to do in this tiny town, but we chose it as our place of accommodation thanks to its stunning views of the Mirna Valley and proximity to Motovun. We didn’t know what to expect, but strolling along the tiny old town of Opetalj, we felt we’d discovered a hidden gem. It’s a place where time stood still. Photogenic crumbling walls decorating narrow cobbled alleys that lead to ancient houses and beautiful archways, an old bell tower, and the occasional flowers and  green vines dotting this historic town.

Things to See in Oprtalj

• Admire the unbelievable view from Venetian Loggia
• Check out the old main gates of the old town
• Wander along the cobbled alleys of the old town
• Have a snack or a glass of wine with the most amazing view

Where to Stay in Oprtalj

We stayed at the charming B&B Palazzo Angelica (for adults only). We didn’t stay at the main house, but we had a lovely apartment inside the old town. The only downfall was we had to carry our suitcases on the uneven cobbled alley (uphill) and then climb a few flights of stairs. However, the friendly staff will gladly help you. We loved our stay here but be warned, Oprtalj is very low key and you only have two restaurants to choose from. If you are looking for a bit of a more lively atmosphere, Motovun or Grožnjan are going to suit you more.

Motovun – One of the Most Famous Towns on the Istrian Peninsula

You can’t visit green Istria without stopping at Motovun. Motovun is perched on a 270-meter hill and surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. The sight of Motovun and the surrounding area in the early hours of the morning covered gently in a veil of fog, is magical. If you stay in the area (and you should), try and catch a glimpse of it with your camera. Nevertheless, if you can’t bother to catch the sunrise or you choose to visit Motovun on a day trip from the coast, don’t worry, it’s stunning every hour of the day.

Things to See in Motovun

• Take a picture from the road of the landscape with the beautiful Motovun perched on the hill
• Wander around Motovun’s cobbled alleys
• See the historical monuments of the ancient city of Kastelijer with its defensive walls, fortifications and gates
• Admire the mixture of Gothic, Romanesque and Renaissance architecture
• Visit the Parish Church of St. Stephen with its bell tower
• Buy some local souvenirs
• Admire the view with a glass of wine

Where to Stay in Motovun

If you want to stay in a hotel at the heart of Motovun, check out Hotel Kastel (will be reopened in March/April 2020). Other than that there are several apartments and B&B you can check here .  If it’s luxury you are looking for, then Wine & Heritage hotel ROXANICH is a boutique hotel located very close to Motovun which also has its own gourmet restaurant and a wellness center. 

Grožnjan – Village of Artists

Grožnjan is located very close to Motovun and Oprtalj. It is another beautiful Istrian village which is known as the village of artists. One of the highlights of strolling around this charming village was to see all of these unique and beautiful medieval houses adorned by artistic displays.

What to See in Grožnjan

• Stroll around the picturesque streets
• Look for unique souvenirs
• Visit the Fonticus Gallery
• Look for the Church of St Vitus, Modest, & Crescentiu
• Have the best cappuccino with a platter of cheese accompanied by a stunning view

Where to Stay in Grožnjan

In Grožnjan you’ll find only small apartments. You can check the prices here .

Buje - History, Views and Local Delecacies

We only had one day to explore the central and northern part of the Istrian Peninsula, which means we didn’t get to see everything we wanted (and we stopped for some wine tasting as well). Buje was on our list for several reasons and we were sorry we’d missed it. Initially, we thought about spending a couple of nights here but decided to spend our nights in green Istria at Oprtalj. Buje has plenty to offer so if you do have the time, try and include it in your Istria itinerary.

What to See in Buje

• Visit St. Servulus church and its bell tower for some magnificent view of the area
• See the Tower of St Martin which was part of the Venetian walls that surrounded Buje
• See the collections at the Ethnographic museum, which showcases local handicrafts and highlights the culture of the area
• Roam the alleys of the historic center and look for local delicacies
• If you’re looking for an extraordinary experience, visit the beer spa at San Servolo Resort & Beer Spa

Where to Stay in Buje

We were planning on staying at San Servolo Resort & Beer Spa , which has beautiful views, modern and funky design and a beer spa. Check the prices for other accommodation choices in Buje here

Day 6 – Duga Uvula, Rabac and Labin

Duga uvula or rabac – for beaches and seascape photography.

There are plenty of beaches all around Istria and even from the center of Istria it should take no more than 45 minutes to get to one of the beaches. We wanted to have a relaxed day and mainly do some photography, and we’ve heard Duga Uvula is a beautiful place. Duga Uvula is a beautiful cove with stunning crystal-clear water and a friendly vibe. When you follow the path, there are many options to take one of the stairs that lead straight to the sea. The beach is not very kid-friendly, at least the parts we visited. There was a very simple bar with some drinks and snacks ( Punta Beach Bar ) where we visited. For us, it was the perfect spot because we were looking for a private location.

However, if you are looking for a lively atmosphere and more options in terms of attractions and restaurants, check out the small resort town of Rabac. It is much more touristy and suited for families, there are more restaurants and a few beaches to choose from. There is also a lovely promenade. Note that it is a trendy place to visit in the summer so it can get crowded.

Labin – History, Views and Art

We’ve heard about Labin only on our last day in Istria and so it was too late to visit it. Since it is located very close to Duga Uvula and Rabac, you should stop there if you have a chance. Labin is another medieval hilltop town which used to be the largest mining center in Croatia. Nowadays, you can find here a few galleries, charming alleys, historical sites and gorgeous views of the Adriatic Sea.

What to See in Labin

• See the Little Theatre or Il Teatrino at Labin old town
• Check out Porta Sanfior, the old town gate
• Visit the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary’s Birth
• Admire some of the Baroque palaces and buildings such as the Battiala-Lazzarini Palace
• Stop by the art galleries or Labin’s city museum
• Admire the view from Fortica Viewpoint

Where to Stay in Labin and Rabac

You’ll find many resorts and apartments around Rabac for different budgets. Check their prices here . In Labin, you’ll find only two hotels. Hotel Peteani offers stylish rooms, great breakfast and free bikes and has great prices for solo travelers. The second hotel, La Loggia Diffused Hotel , is another great choices for visitors who are looking for modern and stylish design and a budget friendly price tag. For more accommodation choices in Labin, check your options  here .

Plan the Perfect Itinerary for your Istrian Peninsula Road Trip

Our best advice is to do your research on the various attractions of the Istrian peninsula, and then calculate how many days you would need (or have) to explore the peninsula, choose two or three places of accommodation in Blue and Green Istria, and you’re good to go.

Where to Stay on the Istrian Peninsula

We only had four nights in Istria, and it wasn’t enough to see everything we wanted to see. Therefore, in our opinion, you should plan your Istria itinerary to include at least 4-5 nights. Our preferred town on the Western Coast is Rovinj (we’ve discussed accommodation options under our Rovinj section). In the center of the Istrian peninsula, we chose to stay at Oprtalj, but Motovun might be better if you are looking for a livelier atmosphere. Finally, if you are a beach person, we suggest staying another night along the coast, which means another day in Rovinj or somewhere near Labin.

Our Ultimate Itinerary to Explore the Best Places to Visit on the Istrian Peninsula

So if you’ve followed our Istria road trip, you might have noticed that we’ve recommended some places we haven’t visited ourselves due to a lack of time or knowledge. So the following itinerary is the one we would have followed if we’d had enough time.

Day 1: Arriving in Rovinj and exploring the old town and nearby parks Day 2: A day trip to Pula and Cape Kamenjak Day 3: A day trip to Lim Fjord, Poreč and Novigrad Day 4: Oprtalj, Motovun and Grožnjan Day 5: Buje and experiencing wine tasting, olive oil tasting or truffle hunting Day 6: Labin and Rabac or Duga Uvula

Things to See on the Istrian Peninsula If You Have More Time

• Visit some of the local Istrian towns we’ve missed such as Buzet, Bale, Hum or Pazin.
• Follow the wine roads of Red Istria and Grey Istria (these names are based on the color of the soil)
• Follow the olive oil trails of the Istrian Peninsula
• Go truffle hunting around Mirna Valley. To learn more about such foodie experiences in Istria, check out our Istria Gourmet Foodie Guide
• Explore the islands along the West coast (Rovinj Archipelago, Vrsar Archipelago or Sv. Nikola island)
• Visit the famous Birjuni Islands National park
• Go on a cycling tour or hike along the old Parenzana railway. The old Parenzana train connected the ports of Poreč and Trieste with villages and towns of the Istrian peninsula. It operated between 1902 and 1935. Nowadays, after a restoration process, there are cycling tours and hiking tours along the old route. Other than that, there are many more cycling routes all over the Istrian Peninsula. 
• Go on a day trip to Piran on the Slovenian part of the Istrian Peninsula. Another picturesque town with beautiful architecture and historic sites.

How to Get to the Istrian Peninsula, Croatia

By Plane – There is one international airport in Istria, Pula Airport . It’s a small airport, but during the season, there are flights from several European destinations such as London, Berlin, Amsterdam and other locations. Thanks to the increasing popularity of Istria, more and more flights are added every month. Otherwise, you can fly to one of the nearby international airports in Croatia, such as Rijeka or Zagreb, Trieste in Italy or Ljubljana in Slovenia and drive/arrange for transportation from there.

By Bus – There are buses from many cities in Croatia and nearby European destinations to the main towns along the coast of Istria such as Pula and Rovinj. You can catch a bus from Trieste, Ljubljana, Munich, Sarajevo, Zurich and many more cities. Check some of the options here .

By Boat – During the season, you can reach Rovinj by ferry. There are four companies operating ferries to and from Rovinj . In the high season, there are 1-5 journeys per day, but in the low season, there are no ferries at all. There is also a ferry from Zadar to Pula .

By Car – If you are planning on exploring the Istrian Peninsula, we suggest renting a car. You can either rent a car after landing in Pula Airport or from Zagreb or the Dalmatian Coast.

Getting Around the Istrian Peninsula

Your best choice is to rent a car. If you only plan to visit the towns along the western coast of the Istria Peninsula, you will find some public transportation from the main towns (Pula, Rovinj or Poreč), but if you want to explore Green Istria, it might be hard if not almost impossible by public transit. You can check some of the bus routes in Istria here .

If you don’t want to rent a car, you can hire a private driver or a taxi to show you some of the highlights of the Istrian Peninsula. Another more budget-friendly way is to go on an organized tour to see the best places to visit in Istria. 

Distances between Our Recommended Places to Visit on the Istrian Peninsula

To give you a clue regarding your day trips, we wrote down for you the distances between our recommended destinations along the coast and inside the Istrian peninsula.

From Rovinj: To Pula: 40 km. (about 45 minutes) To Cape Kamenjak: 55 km. (about 55 minutes) To Lim Bay: 16 km (about 20 minutes) To Poreč: 40 km. (about 45 minutes) To Novigrad: 55 km. (about 55 minutes) To Motovun: 50 km. (about 55 minutes)

From Motovun: To Oprtalj: 11 km. (about 20 minutes, it’s not a mistake, the road is very curvy) To Grožnjan: 18 km. (about 23 minutes) To Buje: 22 km. (about 25 minutes) To Labin/Rabac/ Duga Uvula: 50-70 km. (about 70 minutes)

When to Visit the Istrian Peninsula, Croatia

You can visit the Istrian Peninsula all year long. Nevertheless, the best time of the year is usually June – September. In July and August, the temperatures can reach 30°C, and there are more tourists in the area, but it’s not too bad compared to other regions of Croatia and it’s the best time to enjoy the beaches. April and May are also great if you don’t mind the cooler temperatures (just be aware that some of the restaurants and smaller hotels might be closed, especially during April). Fall is the best time to visit Istria if you want to watch the harvest of olives and grapes and go truffle hunting. Have a look at the average temperature and rainfall in Istria by month .

Final Tips to Help you Plan the perfect Istria Road Trip Itinerary

• Try to arrive early to the main tourist attractions since you can’t get into the old city with your car, and you’ll have to find a parking lot (some of which can get crowded later in the day).
• Don’t forget to ask for a GPS in your car or use a GPS app on your phone. We recommend downloading an Istria Map from Google Maps before your trip since at some places, you will have a bad signal. At least you’ll have a map of the area on your mobile.
• You can use the Croatian Automobile Club’s app, Hak Traffic , to check for any traffic, closed roads, etc.
• The roads in Istria are pretty narrow, can be curvy, and some of them are basically dirt roads. Therefore, check the ETA on your app and consider your gasoline consumption. Many times we arrived at our destination later than anticipated.
• Relax and enjoy your time – part of the reason we didn’t get to check off all the attractions on our bucket list was simply since we wanted to enjoy the moment. So instead of rushing from place to place, choose the top sites you’d like to visit in advance and leave room for improvisation.

Where to Go Next

We continued our Istrian road trip and followed the scenic road to Plitvice Lakes till we arrived to  Zagreb , our final destination on our Croatian road trip. If you started your journey in Istria, we also recommend continuing your road trip to the Dalmatian Coast.

Helpful Information and Travel Tips for your Croatia Itinerary

• Best 2 Days Itinerary to Discover Dubrovnik
• How to Plan the Perfect Split Itinerary and Why It Should Be on Your Croatia Bucket List
• Zagreb’s Self Guided Walking Tour
• Things to Do in Rovinj, Istria
• Best Day Trips from Rovinj to the South, East and North of Istria
• Olive Oil Tasting in Istria

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16 thoughts on “Istria Itinerary – Most Beautiful Places to Visit on Croatia’s Istrian Peninsula”

I’d not heard of the Istrian peninsula prior to reading your post, it sounds absolutely dreamy 🙂

Istria is a dreamy place! unbelievable views, great food and the people are so welcoming!

This sounds like an absolutely dream trip! I love how charming Rovinj is, the perfect place to explore. I’m now going to have to add this to my list of places I want to visit this year – thanks for sharing 🙂

Thanks Gemma! you’d love Istria! As you said Rovinj is absolutely stunning and the whole area is a true hidden gem!

Perfect timing, I am currently planning a trip there and just mapping out my itinerary and definitely some of these places are on my list. I have pinned for my future reference. Wonderful post!

Thanks so much! So glad we could have helped. You’ll love the Istrian peninsula and make sure to eat some truffles and drink some wine for us too 😉

We LOVED Istria and hope to go back. We only had three days so a longer trip sounds so lovely. Saving this for future reference. Love you itinerary and suggestions.

We know what you mean Laureen, we had 4 nights and it wasn’t enough to see everything. The best would be to stay for a week and then you could really slow down and enjoy the scenery.

Ahhh Istria is on my bucket list! Hoping to visit this year and I’ll definitely be referencing this post!

Hope you make it to the Istrian peninsula in 2020, you’d love it!

Wow I didn’t even know Istria existed but you make me want to visit this place so badly now!

Yes, we’ve only heard about and we were looking for hidden gems in Croatia and the Istrian peninsula tick all the boxes! It’s truly a magical place!

What a lovely post! We will make it to Croatia someday, and this post will be an excellent guide for us. Thank you for all the useful information.

Thanks so much, Susan. Croatia is wonderful, we’re sure you’d love it!

I’m so happy I found your website! This is exactly what I need for my upcoming trip!

Great! We really try to provide a lot of helpful information mixed with some inspiration, of course 🙂 have fun in Istria!

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7-Day Istria Itinerary: Explore Pula, Umag and Rovinj

Last Updated on January 2, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning the perfect Istria itinerary can prove to be a difficult task, especially with so many visitors to Croatia flocking to the Dalmatian coast rather than to this gorgeous and historic region.

However, there is a lot more to see of Croatia and if you want all of the charms of Dubrovnik and Dalmatia, then Istria is the answer! Located in the northwestern part of Croatia, Istria is filled with charming coastal cities and medieval hill towns. So if you’re curious about how to spend 7 days in Istria, look no further!

Table of Contents

Getting To & Around Istria

If you are travelling to Istria as a stand-alone trip and not as part of a longer Croatia itinerary , your best bet when arriving in Istria is to fly into the Pula Airport.

Though seemingly small in size, the Pula airport serves several airlines from a multitude of European cities.

If you are arriving from elsewhere in the country to begin your Istria itinerary, there are frequent bus connections from most major Croatian cities, including Zagreb , to Pula, Rovinj, and Poreč. There are also connections to Istria from Slovenian and Italian cities like Ljubljana , Piran , and Trieste.

It is worth knowing that if you are planning on relying on public transport in Istria or Croatia in general, that the bus reigns supreme. There are very few long-distance trains in Croatia and those that do exist are generally infrequent and unreliable.

The other option for arriving and getting around Istria is to hire your own car. While it is definitely possible to get to most places you need to go relying on public transport alone, having your own vehicle gives you a lot more flexibility.

If you are trying to cut costs on your Croatia travel budget , we recommend renting a car just for a day or two in order to explore more off-the-path places on the Istrian peninsula.

If you don’t have a car, the bus system within cities (particularly in Pula) is very easy to navigate, frequent, and reliable and often times might work out to be more practical (and certainly more cost-effective) than having a rental car. You can buy bus tickets online through GetByBus.

7 Days in Istria Itinerary

Though it may seem like a small area, there are a surprising amount of things to do in Istria which is why we recommend spending at least a week in the area.

If you are keen to have some relaxation time by the warm Adriatic waters while also being able to get the most out of all the activities and sites that Istria has to offer, one week is the perfect amount of time.

Day 1: Pula

The most logical place to begin your trip is in Pula, the largest city in the region and also home to the international airport. Pula has a fascinating history dating back thousands of years and it is a city that is very worth exploring. Plan to spend three nights here in order to get a good feel for the city, appreciate its history, and also explore some of the surrounding areas.

Perhaps the most iconic site in Pula is its imposing ancient Roman amphitheatre, located right in the centre of town. Constructed between 27 BCE and 68 CE, it was originally used for gladiator games and had a capacity for 23,000 spectators.

Still excellently preserved today, it operates as a tourist attraction and a venue for concerts and cultural events like the Pula Film Festival.

A unique museum in the city centre, the House of Istrian Olive Oil  is a great place to visit in Pula. Outlining the history of olive oil in Istria throughout the centuries, this museum gives great insight into the significance that olive oil has had on Istria from the ancient Romans to the present day.

There is also an opportunity to include a guided tasting of some great Istrian olive oils and we highly recommend it.

And if you’re looking for a great dinner option, heat to Pizzeria Jupiter. It has a great outdoor seating area and is located close to the arena, this place not only serves fantastic pizza but also some Balkan strongholds like cevapi and plijescavica along with freshly caught, local seafood.

Where to Stay in Pula

Pula is increasing in popularity as a tourist destination and, because of that, there are a number of great accommodation options. Here are some of our suggestions:

Boutique Hotel Oasi – this small hotel is located very close to the beach and a short distance from central Pula. They have plenty of rooms on offer, a restaurant on site, and breakfast is included in the room rate.

Crazy House Hostel – located in the centre of the Old Town, this hostel is the perfect place for solo travellers on a budget and there is a fantastic outdoor terrace to relax on.

Private Rental – There are several private apartments in Pula such as this comfortable city apartment if you’re looking for some privacy.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other places in Pula!

Day 2: Pula

After enjoying some history on your first day in Pula, it’s time to enjoy more of the city on the second day.

If you want to see how locals shop outside of the international supermarket chains, then head to the Pula market. Though there are some stalls that are catered toward tourists hawking kitschy souvenirs that could be found anywhere, there are also booths selling authentic local produce at great prices and fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables.

There is also an indoor area selling meat and fish, along with an area with a number of great restaurants more catered toward locals than tourists. It is worth noting, however, that the majority of these restaurants are not open for dinner. All in all, a visit to the Pula market is a great way to stock up on some unique mementoes from your trip to Istria.

For those looking for a unique experience, then you will be fascinated to find out that winding underneath central Pula are a series of tunnels that were originally commissioned to be built by Tito to serve as a bunker.

Now it is possible to wander through these tunnels, called Zerostrasse, and see them for yourselves. In the present day, the tunnels serve as an art and photo exhibition where you can see photos of Pula past, mostly from the days when it was still part of Yugoslavia and it was a favourite destination of Tito.

And if you’re looking for a great way to end your second day in Pula, then consider heading to one of the many beaches that lie within easy reach of the town. Though there aren’t any sandy beaches and they’re mostly pebbly, if you don water shoes to protect your feet you should have a wonderful time swimming!

For dinner, consider heading to Kantina. Located close to the Pula market, Kantina is a great option if you’re keen to sample some of the best seafood Istria has to offer. Prices are affordable and the menu is extensive, serving up a lot of local favourites.

Day 3: Brijuni National Park

The Brijuni Islands are a fantastic day trip to take from Pula. Located just off the coast from the city, these islands were once served as the summer home for the Yugoslav dictator Josip Broz Tito and today are a nature reserve.

While you can opt to take a day excursion around the islands directly from Pula, the only boat that has permission to actually land on the islands leaves from the nearby town of Fazana. Ferry tickets also include a tour of the island on a motorised train.

Rather than taking the packed train, however, we recommend hiring a bicycle and going around the island at your own pace. There you can see the wildlife park — including ostrich, zebras, llamas, and Shetland ponies — that Tito established, maybe hit the golf course, or find a stony beach virtually all to yourself.

Those who don’t want to go to the Brijuni Islands may also enjoy a day trip out to Cape Kamenjak which is filled with beautiful beaches, crystal clear water and gorgeous coastline and cliffs.

For dinner, head back to Pula and have a quick and delicious bite to eat at Hook & Cook , a popular casual seafood joint. They have a small menu, however, the quality of the fish is fantastic and they have some unique ingredients and presentation.

Day 4: Umag

After enjoying the lively atmosphere and many activities that Pula has to offer, the next stop on your Istria itinerary should be the northwestern Istrian town of Umag. Umag is much smaller and much more laid-back than Pula and is very popular amongst European tourists.

Though very small, the Old Town in Umag is incredibly quaint and very much worth exploring. There are many cafes and restaurants lining the water and a few pretty, cobblestoned streets to get lost in. There aren’t many breathtaking “sites” to see here, however, the atmosphere is one that lends Umag to be explored.

One of the best reasons to visit Umag is to spend some time soaking up the sun and swimming in the warm Adriatic Sea. Luckily, Umag has a number of great swimming areas absolutely perfect for this, however, the one we would recommend is the Stella Maria Swimming Area.

Located close to the Hotel Sol, this isn’t a sandy beach, however, it is still a fantastic area to lay in the sun and take a dip in the crystal clear water. There are also a couple of cafes and snack bars around should you need a bite to eat or an ice cream to take the edge off of a warm day.

Spend your afternoon and evening sipping wine in a nearby vineyard. Croatian wine is not well-known internationally, however, a prime wine-growing region happens to be located in Istria. While there are seemingly hundreds of vineyards scattered all across the Istrian region, some of the best lie within very easy reach of Umag.

We recommend stopping by for a tasting at Cuj Winery , which is only a few kilometres inland from Umag. This small, family-run vineyard produces some fantastic wines and their own olive oil as well. They use the native Istrian Malvasia and Teran grape varieties in their white and reds respectively.

And not far from the winery, you can find Konoba Buscina . hey serve traditional Istrian cuisine and while it might seem like a fine dining establishment, the atmosphere is very laid back and casual. This is one of the best places to eat in Umag, but as it is quite well-known, it is recommended that you book a table in advance.

Where to Stay in Umag

Though not as popular a destination as Pula or Rovinj, there are many great accommodation options in Umag.

Vilola – a small boutique hotel located close to some of the best swimming areas in Umag, Vilola offers air-conditioned rooms with their own balcony and breakfast included in the room rate.

Hotel Arte Casa – another boutique hotel in Umag, this one also has a great breakfast included in the nightly rate, air-conditioned rooms, and free parking on the premises.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other places in Umag!

Day 5: Buje, Groznjan & Motovun

Another benefit to spending a couple of days in Umag is its proximity to some of the most charming hill towns in Istria. While it might be hard to draw yourself away from the stunning seaside, heading inland will let you see a side of Istria that you would never have known existed.

The towns of Buje, Groznjan, and Motovun are all within easy reach of Umag, however, it is a lot easier to get to them if you have your own car. Buje is closest to Umag and is the least visited of the three towns, however, its lack of tourists only adds to its charm.

Groznjan was our favourite town of the three, it is known for its arts and music scene. There are a number of great restaurants to have lunch — we ate at Cafe Bar Vero and highly recommend it — and some art galleries and Istrian produce shops to browse.

Make sure to stop at Agro-Millo Olive Oil just outside of Groznjan if you want to sample some of the best Istrian olive oil direct from the producer!

Motovun is probably the most popular and busy hill town in Istria. This beautiful medieval town is located high above the peninsula and offers exquisite views of the surrounding area from its city walls. Be aware that it does get very popular and if the car park is full in the town — and it often is — you will have to park at the base of the hill and hike up.

When leaving Motovun, make sure to head to the nearby town of Livade and go to the Medea-Jankovic honey shop. This family-run shop sells high-quality honey in a number of varieties from their own bees.

They also have their own honey rakija along with hand creams and lip balms from the beeswax. The owners are incredibly friendly and will let you sample everything and offer helpful explanations.

It’s also worth taking a detour a driving a bit along the coast to some other towns and also see the gorgeous Lim Fjord. Great towns to visit include Porec – whose historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site – and Novigrad. You could also head north and visit nearby Piran in Slovenia.

For dinner, head back to Umag and have a rustic meal at the lovely Konoba Istra or Restoran Mani in the old town. Both are great options for local Istrian fare.

Day 6: Rovinj

Rovinj is easily the most notable and popular town to visit on any week in Istria. This beautiful seaside town is enough to make anyone fall in love. We recommend spending two nights here in order to get the most out of Rovinj while also being able to enjoy some sun and sea.

Spend your first full day in Rovinj exploring the town. Rovinj’s Old Town is one of the most magical in Croatia. It is just small enough to be able to see the whole thing in one day, but large enough to be able to get wonderfully lost and find some narrow, cobbled lanes all to yourself.

Take the time to wander around without any sort of agenda and see where your feet might take you…it is sure to charm you around every corner! The Old Town is also a pedestrian-only zone, so you do not need to be on the lookout for cars!

Much like in Pula, there is a lovely market just at the entrance of the Old Town selling fresh fruits and vegetables and also local Istrian produce. Here you can browse stalls selling olive oil, truffles and truffle products, Croatian lavender, and many varieties of rakija. Most sellers will also offer you samples of their goods.

It is worth noting that there really isn’t much at the Rovinj market that you can’t find at the one in Pula, except that the prices here are noticeably higher.

Therefore, we would recommend buying any Istrian gastronomic souvenirs in Pula rather than in Rovinj in order to save some money and to cut down on your total Croatia trip cost.

Probably the most iconic landmark of Rovinj is St Euphemia’s Church and its bell tower overlooking the picturesque seaside town. This Catholic church is situated on the top of the highest hill in Rovinj’s Old Town and offers great views of the sea and Monte Beach below.

If you want the best view as possible, however, then you need to brave the climb up the bell tower. There are a number of very rickety stairs to climb (some of the worst we have encountered, so it’s not for the faint of heart — especially if you’re afraid of heights), but the views from the top are absolutely spectacular. The strenuous and harrowing climb is always worth it for views like this!

And if you want to go for a swim, there are many stone and pebble beaches surrounding Rovinj, however, Monte Beach is the only one that is in the Old Town.

Located directly below St Euphemia’s church, this is more of a rocky swimming area than a beach, but it is perfect for those who want to take the edge off of a hot day with a dip in the Adriatic.

There are several ladders to help you get in and out of the water. It is worth noting that if you’re not a strong swimmer, this may not be the best beach for you as the water is deep and can sometimes get rough.

Make sure to grab a drink at Mediterraneo — this cocktail bar is one of the best places to get an aperitivo in Rovinj. Located directly on the rocky seaside near Monte Beach, it has an extensive cocktail, wine, and beer list and it is the perfect place to watch the sunset or for a romantic evening.

And for dinner head to Kantonin. An inventive Istrian restaurant, Kantinon uses local produce and traditional recipes and gives them a modern spin. The results are absolutely delicious. Located on the harbour, this restaurant is the perfect place for a romantic dinner at an agreeable price.

Or consider eating at Snack Bar Rio, one of the best places if you want a more upmarket seafood meal in Rovinj. They have a great menu with freshly-caught seafood in a beautiful location on the harbour with phenomenal views of St Euphemia’s church. The service is very friendly and they also have an extensive wine list.

Where to stay in Rovinj

Hotel Angelo d’Oro   – a small hotel in the middle of old town Rovinj, this place has a number of rooms on offer and comes very highly rated. Breakfast is also included in the nightly rate.

Rooms Barbieri – located only five minutes from the old town, this charming hotel is a great option for a place to stay in Rovinj. The rooms are large and comfortable and it also includes breakfast in the room rate.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other places in Rovinj!

Day 7: Rovinj

If you’re exhausted after all of the sightseeing that has been included in this itinerary, then there is no better time to hit the beach on your final day. Luckily, Rovinj has a number of beautiful beaches in its surrounding areas. Our favourite, however, was Amarin Beach.

Part of a resort, this beach can be reached from a convenient ferry ride that leaves every half-hour near the Rovinj market. The ride is very affordable each way and takes about fifteen minutes.

The beach itself is pebbly, which makes it comfortable to lay on, and the swimming area is a lot calmer than at Monte Beach making it a better solution for families or those who aren’t as strong of swimmers. There are also snack bars and cafes where you can get drinks, food, and ice cream!

And for your final dinner, if you’re looking for a more local haunt within easy reach of Rovinj’s old town, then look no further than Torkolo . Serving up traditional Istrian specialities, this is a great place for a casual meal and affordable prices.

Istria is an absolutely beautiful corner of Croatia and it deserves to be explored! There are so many wonderful things to do in Istria that it is close to impossible to get bored!

Are you planning to visit Istria? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

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10 Unforgettable Things To Do In Istria, Croatia

Istria is one of Croatia’s best-kept secrets. Loved by many and busy in the summer months, but not as super famous as Dubrovnik, Split or other regions on the Dalmatian coast. It’s also more than a summer holiday destination with beaches. Istria has a fabulous coast, but it also offers historical sights, great food and wine. Its hilltop towns and medieval old towns on the coast take you back in time, impress with cobbled streets and stone walls, and an exciting history.

We didn’t visit the Istrian peninsula on our first trip to Croatia. But when we finally did, it became one of our favorite regions! This post is all about the best things to do in Istria, whether on a short visit or on a week long holiday.

Do you find planning your trip for Croatia a bit overwhelming?

What if I told you that someone has ALL the planning done: get our compact, easy 10-Day Croatia Itinerary! Read it, then go and enjoy.

How much time to spend in Istria?

While at it, please take our advice and don’t make Istria a one day stop on a road trip . Sure, one day is better than nothing, but you need to have at least 2-3 days to get an idea about Istria . Even better if you have a full week. You won’t get bored, I promise.

The best things to do in Istria

Stroll the cobbled streets of the old town of rovinj.

Oh, Rovinj! The very best place to visit in Istria, an old town that can compete with the one in Dubrovnik, only it’s less touristy and feels like a piece of Italy. Rovinj was our main reason to visit Istria, and without doubt it was the highlight of our Istria road trip. It has beauty and an irresistible atmosphere.

The intact old town of Rovinj is located on a heart-shaped peninsula, and strolling through it is like traveling back in time. Narrow, cobblestone streets, laundry hanging between the pastel colored houses, hidden courtyards with lots of green and some more colorful laundry.

Rovinj would deserve its own post, but definitely don’t miss the main square with St. Euphemia Church, the town hall clock and characteristic Grisia Street. Enjoy the view of the old town from the harbor – at sunset, if you want to see real magic.

Be sure to have a good pair of walking shoes though, because the old town is hilly, there are many stairs, and cobblestone is smooth and slippery at places.

Best things to do in Rovinj:

• stroll the cobbled streets of the old town
• climb to the bell tower of St. Euphemia Church
• enjoy a Rovinj sunset from the harbor
• dive into the culinary delights – taste truffles, olive oil and wine
• take a five minutes boat trip to St. Katarina Island from the old town

Travel back in time at the amphitheater in Pula

Istria resembles Italy quite often. The Venetian architecture of Rovinj, the green hilly landscapes that could be in Tuscany, or one of the most well-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world: the Pula Arena.

Pula is Istria’s largest town and was founded about 3000 years ago. It’s not nearly as captivating as Rovinj, but it has some impressive Roman ruins, like the Pula Arena, the Forum, the Arch of Sergius or the Temple of Augustus. The Arena was used for gladiator fights with more than 20000 spectators. Today it’s a venue for festivals and other performances and can host about 5000 people.

Best things to do in Pula:

• Pula Arena is the highlight
• visit the Forum, the Arch of Sergius and the Temple of Augustus
• visit Pula’s Aquarium which is the largest in Croatia

Buy our well-tested minimalist family beach vacation packing checklist  to ensure you don’t forget to pack anything.

Explore a wild corner of Istria: Cape Kamenjak Nature Park

So we lied about Rovinj being our favorite place in Istria. Because we’ve been to Cape Kamenjak. They’re different though: Rovinj is mainly a cultural experience, and Cape Kamenjak is a natural highlight. It has nothing but nature, unspoilt, beautiful nature without urban distractions.

Cape Kamenjak Nature Park is dominated by blue and green colors – the pine trees and the incredibly turquoise bays and coves. The rugged coastline is home to more than 20 beaches, and even more hidden coves! You can swim, snorkel or kayak in the water, hike or bike on land. Entrance fee is charged for motor vehicles, but entrance is free for cyclists and pedestrians.

Do you want to know more about the park? Read our detailed guide to Cape Kamenjak here !

Best things to do in Cape Kamenjak:

• snorkel at Mala & Velika Kolombarica coves
• swim in the crystal clear waters of Plovanije and Radovica Beaches
• hang out at the Safari Bar

Visit the ancient Roman town of Porec

Poreč is a lovely seaside beach town, with a pretty waterfront promenade, but it’s also more: it has a fascinating ancient Roman town. The most famous sight (also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the only one in Istria) is the 4 th -century Euphrasian Basilica with its Byzantine mosaics. You can climb up to its bell tower for more pretty views. Marafor, the ancient roman square, is the main square, and Decumanus and Cardo Maximus streets are exceptionally well-preserved.

Poreč is that kind of tiny town that doesn’t offer a ton of things to do, but it just feels good to hang around there.

Best things to do in Porec:

• Episcopal Complex Of The Euphrasian Basilica
• aimlessly stroll the lovely old town
• enjoy the beaches in Zelena Laguna Resort

Hunt for hidden ruins and hidden coves

Have you also noticed that some of the best places on your trips are the hidden spots, barely known or visited by anyone, and that’s exactly their magic? We enjoyed hunting for hidden coves in Istria, and we even found hidden ruins in addition. The kind of ruins that have a captivating atmosphere. They’re abandoned, hidden in the forest. Plants grew over them throughout the years. They make you feel romantic and nostalgic. And they beg you to be photographed.

Like abandoned Fort Monte Grosso , a fortress we stumbled upon in the forest while exploring Stinjan peninsula above Pula. It was part of the Austro-Hungarian defense system, with an artillery battery right next to it, called Valmaggiore . It once hosted a crew of about 200 soldiers. An actual maintained staircase led us up to the top of one of the open batteries for a pretty coastal view, so it’s obviously not as abandoned and forgotten as it seems to be.

Enjoy the view of Lim Fjord, the only (fake) fjord in Croatia

Lim Fjord is a 10 kilometers long estuary that does look similar to a fjord, but technically it’s not one. Because fjords are products of glaciation by definition, and Lim Fjord (or Lim Channel) was carved by the Pazinčica River on its way to the Adriatic Sea. Nevertheless, it’s as close to a fjord as you get in Croatia, and it’s a great day trip from Rovinj.

There are some hiking trails near the fjord, but the best (and only) viewpoint can be accessed by a short walk from the road. Unlike we expected, we couldn’t see Lim Fjord from the road that runs along the estuary (forest blocks the view), and the trail we tried didn’t offer a view of it either. So make that viewpoint a scenic picnic stop, then spend the rest of your day exploring the historical town and beaches of Vrsar.

Visit some of the lovely hilltop towns

Those idyllic villages on the green hilltops are not Tuscany, but they’re just as charming. They maintained their character from centuries ago, have cobbled streets and buildings that date back to the Venetian, medieval or Roman times, and most of them are barely known – which certainly can’t be said about most adorable Italian towns.

For a walk in Motovun , you need to climb 1052 stairs, and this medieval town is surrounded by walkable walls that offer fantastic views of the area. Groznjan is a 14 th -century Venetian fortress turned into a medieval town. Labin is for art lovers, with numerous galleries and ateliers.

In case you don’t have a car, you can choose to see a selection of these towns on a guided tour. This tour is a sightseeing and a food tour , and it includes Groznjan, Motovun with food tasting and Pazin, it also stops at the Lim Fjord viewpoint and offers several pickup locations.

Stroll the Lungomare promenade in Opatija

Who doesn’t like a pretty seaside stroll? The 12 kilometers long Lungomare promenade stretches from Volosko to Lovran, and it was our favorite attraction in the resort town of Opatija. It has endless views of Kvarner Bay and the magnificent historical seafront villas, and a great number of beaches and coves, so you can easily make this stroll a full day activity.

The official name of the seafront footpath is Franz Joseph I Promenade, because Emperor Franz Joseph started to build it for his wife, Sisi, who suffered from lung disease. The naming also commemorates the heyday of Opatija as one of the most popular health and tourist resorts during the golden age of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, at the turn of the 19 th -20 th centuries.

Experience what small means in teeny tiny Hum

There are two streets and about 20 inhabitants. There’s a city wall and a church. There’s not much to see in Hum, it’s simply the smallest town ever, and that’s the point: it’s so adorable that it makes it a unique stop on your road trip in the Istrian countryside.

Take a day trip to the Brijuni Islands

This archipelago of 14 islands is famous for being the summer residence of Josip Broz Tito, the former ruler of Yugoslavia. You can take a ferry from Fažana, then a train tour takes you around the island. Tito had a strange hobby: collecting exotic animals. That’s the reason there’s a safari park, but you can also see a 1600-year-old olive tree and dinosaur footprints. You can buy your entrance ticket on the national park’s website here . It includes the boat ride, but the train ride is optional, you can choose from different ticket types.

If you’d like to enjoy a boat trip around Brijuni National Park, take a guided boat tour around the islands, like this one from Pula .

Do you need help planning your Croatia road trip?

• Get the Croatia 10 Days Itinerary eBook.
• Use the easy-to-follow itinerary.
• Go and enjoy your trip.

Buy it now.

+1: Sure, don’t miss the fabulous beaches!

Last but not least: Istria is home to wonderful beaches. But they are not those tropical dream beaches with white sand and palm trees. First of all, it’s not the tropics. Instead of palm trees you get evergreen, fragrant pine forests. Beaches are rarely sandy, most of them are pebbly or rocky.

The advantage: they make the color of the water incredibly magical, coastal views are impressive, and many of them are great for snorkeling. The disadvantage: you can’t enjoy them barefoot. Sharp rocks can easily hurt your feet, so water shoes are strongly recommended if you want to have an enjoyable time on these beaches. There are exceptions, like some pebbly bays where pebbles are relatively small and smooth, but keep your water shoes or snorkel shoes close by, because most of the time it’d be more pleasant to wear them.

And which are the very best beaches? I’ve already written a separate post about them, read it here!

How to get around in Istria?

Getting around is the easiest and most flexible by car. If you stay in Pula or Rovinj, nothing is further than an hour drive.

Compare car rental rates here!

Public transport is available, and it mostly means bus. It restricts the places you can reach to the most visited cities and towns, which still means a lot of options, like Pula, Rovinj, Porec, Umag, Opatija, Pazin or Labin. Check out the available bus lines and ticket prices here:

Where to stay in Istria?

Pula is our favorite base to stay in Istria, because it’s close to countless stunning beaches both south and north of it, and Rovinj or Cape Kamenjak are the best day trips from Pula. If you’d like to stay right by the beach, Hotel Park Plaza Arena Pula or Arene Verudela are both walking distance from Hawaiian Cove Beach.

There’s no accommodation inside Cape Kamenjak Nature Park, the closest to stay are the apartments, hotels or campings in Premantura .

While Rovinj is a comfortable day trip from Pula, you can spend a few days there to explore the nearby beaches at a leisurely pace. Porec and Umag are the best to explore the northwestern region of Istria, and Opatija is a great base to explore the eastern coastline.

Popular and fun tours to do in Istria

Check out more of our Croatia travel guides:

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By Beata Urmos

Bea is a travel writer and the co-founder of Our Wanders, an adventurous family travel blog. She’s been traveling for more than 10 years, seeking outdoor adventures, fairy tale castles and unique experiences. She's passionate about sharing all she has learned along the way, and she's an expert in planning trips of any length. She’d love to help you plan your own amazing trip, too.

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The Most Incredible 7-Day Istria Itinerary

This Istria Itinerary highlights the best things to do and see in Istria, Croatia in just 7 days!

Located in the northwest corner of Croatia, the Istrian Peninsula is a fairytale-like region with a strong Italian heritage. Its rustic interior of emerald green hills and medieval hilltop villages attract visitors seeking gastronomic delicacies, while its rugged coastline and pristine beaches are popular with sea and sun lovers.

The Istrian Peninsula takes on a heart-shape and can be divided into two regions: Blue Istria and Green Istria.

Blue Istria is home to darling fishing villages perched along the glittering Adriatic Sea, each of them bursting with their own unique Italian flavor.

The peninsula’s bucolic interior is where you’ll find Green Istria , an area that bears a striking resemblance to Tuscany. Green Istria is abundant in vineyards, olive groves, truffle-filled forests, and picturesque hilltop towns.

This 7-day Istria itinerary will cover the best of both regions!

Table of Contents 👇

Getting to Istria

If you are traveling to Croatia and Istria is your only destination, the best choice for getting to Istria will be to fly into the Pula Airport . This airport is located in close proximity to the city of Pula, the starting point of this 7-Day Istria Itinerary. The airport is well-connected to other countries in Europe and serves a number of well-known airlines including EasyJet, Ryanair, SAS, Lufthansa, Eurowings, British Airways, Swiss, Norwegian, and more.

The next best way to reach Istria from other parts of Croatia is by bus. Bus transportation in Croatia is far superior to the train, and also more reliable. There are plenty of connections to Istria from other major Croatian cities including Zagreb, Rijeka, and Split. You can find the up-to-date timetables on the Zagreb Bus Terminal website or Flixbus .

Traveling Around Istria

Once you finally arrive to Istria, the absolute best way to explore the peninsula is by hiring a rental car.

It is possible to see Istria by solely relying on buses and public transportation, however, renting a car gives you much more flexibility. After all, road trips are all about having the freedom to stop and explore anything and everything that looks interesting along the way!

Be sure to check out this list of must-have road trip accessories to make sure you have all that you need before embarking on your epic journey.

Days 1-2: Pula

On your first day of this 7-Day Istria Itinerary, take your time to explore the ancient Roman city of Pula.

An absolute must-see site is the famous Pula Arena. This Roman amphitheater was constructed in 27 BC and is one of the best-preserved amphitheaters outside of Italy. It is also the only one in the world to have 4 entirely preserved side towers.

Other historic sites worth checking out are the Temple of Augustus and the Arch of the Sergii. Located near the Temple of Augustus is Art Cafe Cvajner, a unique cafe bar right on Pula’s main square. This cafe provides a lovely view of the temple, perfect for sipping on a cup of coffee while watching the world go by.

On day two of your 7-Day Istria Itinerary, you can choose from two equally fun activities: spending the day at the beach or taking a day trip to Brijuni National Park.

Option 1: Beach Day

If you choose to spend the day at the beach, you’ll want to head to the local market in the morning and stock up on fresh fruit. After doing so, make your way south to the tiny peninsula of Cape Kamenjak.

Only a twenty-minute drive away from Pula lies Cape Kamenjak Nature Park, a little slice of paradise made up of over 30 kilometers of coastline.

This stunning area is surrounded by crystal clear waters, lined with spectacular beaches, and dotted with hidden coves – it was even named one of Croatia’s 10 best beaches by Lonely Planet! This is the place where you will be spending the entire afternoon. Choose from sunbathing, cliff jumping, or simply relaxing at the super chill  Safari Bar .

Option 2: Day Trip to Brijuni National Park

The second option is to take a day trip to the nearby Brijuni National Park that can be easily reached via a short boat ride from the village of Fažana.

This beautiful string of Adriatic islands feature untouched nature, rich history, and ancient ruins. The Brijuni Islands were the official residence of former Yugoslavian president, Josip Broz Tito, for three decades.

Thanks to him, the islands are home to a lovely safari park that houses a variety of indigenous, Asian, African, and South American animals that run freely on Veliki Brijun island. At this park, visitors can also observe dinosaur footprints and a 1,600-year-old olive tree that is still used for olive production today.

In addition to enjoying exotic animals and untouched natural beauty, Veliki Brijun and Mali Brijun islands serve as holiday resorts where visitors can go swimming, diving, and sunbathe on the island shores.

On the morning of day three in Istria, you’ll make the scenic drive from Pula to the town of Labin.

Resting on a hilltop above the former fishing village of Rabac, Labin is a beautiful hidden gem teeming with pastel houses and Italian-style piazzas. It’s hard to believe that this captivating labyrinth of cobblestone streets was once the hub of Istria’s coal-mining industry.

Mining was pursued with such intensity that the town itself began to collapse forty years ago! Since then, Labin has been completely repaired and is now a fascinating destination for exploring Venetian palaces and a mix of Baroque, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture.

Visitors can even get a taste of Labin’s past at the Town Museum that contains a replica of a former working coal mine.

After wandering around the twisting alleyways of Labin, your Istria itinerary will now take you 5 kilometers south to the small coastal town of Rabac.

Situated on a beautiful cove in Kvarner Bay, Rabac features brilliant pebbled beaches set against a gorgeous mountainous backdrop. This up-and-coming resort town boasts four stunning blue flag beaches: Girandella, Maslinica, Lanterna, and St. Andrea, a local favorite.

In addition to soaking up the Istrian sunshine, visitors can enjoy hiking the Sentona Trail that connects Rabac to Labin. The trail is 5 kilometers long and is relatively easy, leading you through a pine-filled forest, over bridges and past rushing waterfalls.

Day 4: Motovun, Grožnjan, and Buje

On day four of your Istria itinerary, you’ll be taking a mini road trip through Green Istria to visit the medieval hilltop towns of Motovun, Grožnjan, and Buje.

Your first stop of the day is Motovun, a dreamy hilltop village that is often hailed as the most charming town in the region.

Fortified in the 14th century by the Venetians, the Motovun’s medieval walls encompass a pathway that allows you to stroll along the perimeter of the town. From the walkway, you can spot rolling vineyards and the Mirna River, as well as the dense forests that produce Istria’s award-winning truffles.

For those wishing to sample the region’s gourmet gem, head to Konoba Mondo. According to the New York Times, “It is what eating in the Old World should feel like.” Even the great Anthony Bourdain once paid a visit to this Istrian treasure to taste the  black diamond of Istria  for himself!

The ambiance at Konoba Mondo is spectacular. Imagine sitting on a shaded terrace on a warm summer day with a glass of the most delectable wine in hand while the heavenly scent of truffles fills the air.

A fun activity to consider adding to your itinerary when in Motovun is truffle hunting. The region’s black truffle is hunted all year round, while the famous white truffle is hunted from mid-September to the end of January.

Your next stop after Motovun is the sweet town of Grožnjan, or as the Italians like to call it  Grisignana .

Don’t let its size fool you – this tiny hilltop colony is quite the showstopper. Grožnjan is a haven for artists from all over the region. In the 1950s, many artists were attracted to Grožnjan’s medieval appeal and began opening up ateliers in the town’s abandoned buildings.

From that point on, Grožnjan became known as the  town of artists .

This is a great place to find local pieces of art and handicrafts that make perfect gifts or souvenirs.

Buje is the final town you’ll visit on day four of your Istria itinerary. Perched on a 222-meter-high cliff, this medieval town offers panoramic views of Istria’s sunkissed hills and vineyards.

One of the best ways to explore this area by simply driving along the roads that surround the town. Buje is famous for being home to the longest wine road in all of Istria, boasting no less than 25 wineries. Be sure to make a stop at one, or a few, to sample the region’s renowned wine varieties including Terrano, Malvazija, and Muškat (Moscato).

End the day by making the 15-minute drive to the coastal town of Umag, where you’ll be spending the evening.

Start your day with a morning coffee and take some time to wander around the laid-back town of Umag. Extremely popular with German tourists, this quaint town may seem small, but it is very well worth exploring.

Some notable sites to see are the ancient town walls featuring a draw bridge that dates back to the 10th century and the 16th-century church of St. Roche famous for its oil-painted ceiling. Also worth checking out are the Town Museum and numerous galleries featuring local pottery and paintings.

Poreč is your second stop on day 5 of your Istria Itinerary.

This seaside town stretches across 37 kilometers of coastline and is incredibly rich in history. The town’s most iconic landmark, whose tower can be spotted from nearly every corner of the city, is the 6th-century Euphrasian Basilica (a UNESCO World Heritage Site).

The ancient complex of the basilica is well-worth exploring for a glimpse of its famous gem-studded Byzantine mosaics and stunning views of Poreč from the top of the tower.

After immersing yourself in the town’s history, spend the rest of the afternoon walking along the gorgeous riviera and swimming in the crystal waters of Brulo Beach.

End the day by making the 40-minute drive to Rovinj, were you’ll spend the night.

Day 6-7: Rovinj

Your final stop on this 7-Day Istria Itinerary is perhaps the most enchanting town in all of Croatia: Rovinj.

This delightful former fishing village can be best described as love at first sight .

Rovinj is romantic, historic, and not to mention, incredibly photogenic. The town is small enough to be seen in a single day, yet its tangle of cobblestone streets and narrow alleyways have a way of engulfing visitors for days on end with their irresistable charm.

Spend your first day in Rovinj strolling around the Old Town with no agenda. Let your feet lead the way as you discover hidden piazzas, hidden ateliers, and captivating seaside cafes.

Be sure to stop at Mediterraneo Bar, a unique venue perched on the cliffside of the town, for an afternoon coffee or cocktail.

Other notable sites worth seeing in Rovinj include:

• The Church of St. Euphemia featuring the tallest bell tower in all of Istria at 61 meters high.
• Balbi’s Arch, the former entrance to the town containing the Lion of St. Mark, a symbol of the Venetian Empire that once ruled the town.
• Grisia Street, a street made of cascading steps that are lined with local boutiques and ateliers. This street becomes pretty busy in August during the annual open-air art exhibition.

When in Rovinj, you’ll want to take an evening to visit the nearby town of Bale.

Just a 20-minute drive south of Rovinj lies the sweet town of Bale (or Valle, in Italian).

This historic village is located at 140m above sea level on a hill surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. The narrow and cobblestoned streets of the town wind around a 15th-century castle, once owned by the Bembo Family.

Peer around nearly any picturesque corner in this town, and you’ll find ateliers selling beautifully handcrafted wares. You will also stumble upon a shop or two offering locally made olive oil, and you might even score a tasting!

In addition to olive oil, the region of Istria also produces some of the best wine in Croatia! No trip to the Istrian peninsula is complete without sampling the local wine. There are two wineries near Bale that are worth checking out:  San Tomasso Winery  and  Meneghetti Winery .

For more inspiration on what to do in Rovinj, check out these 20 Awesome Things to Do in Rovinj, Croatia .

7-Day Istria Itinerary Summary

Hopefully this Istria Itinerary inspired you to explore this beautiful corner of Croatia! Having been there many times, I think it is definitely deserving of a spot on any Croatia trip.

Have you been to Istria before? Are you planning an Istria itinerary? Let me know in the comments!

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Fueled by her passion for travel and her Croatian heritage, Olivia left the USA in 2014 to study abroad in Croatia where she has been living ever since. She founded Inspired by Croatia to share travel tips, destination guides, and exclusive local insights about the country she now calls home.

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A large, triangular peninsula pointing down into the northern Adriatic, Istria (in Croatian, “Istra”) represents Croatian tourism at its most developed and diverse. In recent decades the region’s proximity to Western Europe has ensured an annual influx of sun-seeking tourists, with Italians, Germans, Austrians and what seems like the entire population of Slovenia flocking to the hotel developments that dot the coastline. Istrian beaches – often rocky areas that have been concreted over to provide sunbathers with a level surface on which to sprawl – lack the appeal of the out-of-the-way coves you’ll find on the Dalmatian islands, yet the hotel complexes and rambling campsites have done little to detract from the essential charm of the Istrian coast, with its compact towns of alley-hugging houses grouped around spear-belfried churches. Meanwhile, inland Istria is an area of rare and disarming beauty, characterized by medieval hilltop settlements and stone-built villages.

Brief history of Istria

West coast croatia, inland istria, east coast croatia.

Istria’s cultural legacy is a complex affair. Historically, Italians lived in the coastal towns while Croats were dominant in the rural areas. Despite post-World War II expulsions, there’s still a fair-sized Italian community, and Italian is very much the peninsula’s second language.

With its amphitheatre and other Roman relics, the port of Pula , at the southern tip of the peninsula, is Istria’s largest city and a good base for further exploration; many of Istria’s most interesting spots are only a short bus ride away. On the western side of the Istrian peninsula are pretty towns like Rovinj and Novigrad, with their cobbled piazzas, shuttered houses and back alleys laden with laundry. Poised midway between the two, Poreč is much more of a package destination, but offers bundles of Mediterranean charm if you visit out of season. Inland Istria couldn’t be more different – historic hilltop towns like Motovun, Grožnjan, Oprtalj and Hum look like leftovers from another century, half-abandoned accretions of ancient stone poised high above rich green pastures and forests.

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Istria gets its name from the Histri, an Illyrian tribe that ruled the region before succumbing to the Romans in the second century BC. The invaders left a profound mark on the area, building farms and villas, and turning Pula into a major urban centre. Slav tribes began settling the peninsula from the seventh century onwards, driving the original romanized inhabitants of the peninsula towards the coastal towns or into the hills.

Venetians and Habsburgs

Coastal and inland Istria began to follow divergent courses as the Middle Ages progressed. The coastal towns adopted Venetian suzerainty from the thirteenth century onwards, while the rest of the peninsula came under Habsburg control. The fall of Venice in 1797 left the Austrians in charge of the whole of Istria. They confirmed Italian as the official local language, even though Croats outnumbered Italians by more than two to one. Istria received a degree of autonomy in 1861, but only the property-owning classes were allowed to vote, thereby excluding many Croats and perpetuating the Italian-speaking community’s domination of Istrian politics.

Croatians and Italians

Austrian rule ended in 1918, when Italy – already promised Istria by Britain and France as an inducement to enter World War I – occupied the whole peninsula. Following Mussolini’s rise to power in October 1922, the Croatian language was banished from public life, and Slav surnames were changed into their Italian equivalents. During World War II, opposition to fascism united Italians and Croats alike, although this didn’t prevent outbreaks of interethnic violence. The atrocities committed against Croats during the Fascist period were avenged indiscriminately by Tito's Partisans, and the foibe of Istria – limestone pits into which bodies were thrown – still evoke painful memories for Italians to this day.

After 1945 Istria became the subject of bitter wrangling between Yugoslavia and Italy, with the Yugoslavs ultimately being awarded the whole of the peninsula. The Yugoslav authorities actively pressured Istria’s Italians into leaving, and the region suffered serious depopulation as thousands fled. In response, the government encouraged emigration to Istria from the rest of the country. Thousands of Serb, Macedonian, Albanian and Bosnian families came to the Istrian coast to work in the 1960s and has never looked back.

Istria today

Geographically distant from the main flashpoints of the Serb-Croat conflict, Istria entered the twenty-first century more cosmopolitan, more prosperous and more self-confident than any other region of the country. With locals tending to regard Zagreb as the centre of a tax-hungry state, Istrian particularism is a major political force, with the Istrian Democratic Party (Istarska demokratska stranka, or IDS) consistently winning the lion’s share of the local vote.

One consequence of Istria’s newfound sense of identity has been a positive new attitude towards the Italian parts of its heritage. Bilingual road signs and public notices have gone up, and the region’s Italian-language schools – increasingly popular with cosmopolitan Croatian parents – are enjoying a new lease of life.

Istria’s west coast represents the peninsula at its most developed. A succession of purpose-built resorts are scattered along the shore, but it's the long stretches of unspoiled rocky coast that give the area its character. Inland, the coastal strip fades imperceptibly into conifer-studded heathland, olive groves and the fertile red earth of farmers' fields bounded by dry-stone walls. Here and there you'll spot the enigmatic, conical-roofed kažuni, the stone huts traditionally used by Istrian shepherds for shelter when overnighting with their flocks. Rovinj is Istria’s best-preserved old Venetian port; farther north, beyond the picturesque hilltop village of Vrsar and the Limski kanal, spreads the large resort of Poreč – package-holiday-land writ large, although it does boast the peninsula’s finest ecclesiastical attraction in the shape of the mosaic-filled Basilica of St Euphrasius.

The presidential playground

Although the islands were a popular rural retreat for wealthy Romans, the Brijunis’ history as an offshore paradise really began in 1893, when they were bought by Austrian industrialist Paul Kupelwieser. Kupelwieser, whose aim was to turn the islands into a luxury resort patronized by the cream of Europe’s aristocracy, brought in Nobel Prize-winning bacteriologist Robert Koch, who rid the Brijunis of malaria by pouring petroleum on the swamps. Smart hotels and villas were built on Veli Brijun, and the Mediterranean scrub was cleared to make way for landscaped parks. The Brijunis’ heyday was in the period immediately before World War I: Archduke Franz Ferdinand and Kaiser Wilhelm II both stayed on the islands, and struggling English-language teacher James Joyce came here to celebrate his 23rd birthday on February 2, 1905.

Following World War I, the development of Brijuni as a golf- and polo-playing resort helped preserve the islands’ reputation as a key venue for aristocratic fun and games. Running costs proved high however, and Kupelwieser’s son Karl committed suicide here in 1930 when it became clear that this elite paradise would never turn a profit.

After World War II, Tito decided to make Veli Brijun one of his official bases, planting much of the island’s subtropical vegetation and commissioning a residence (the White Villa, or “Bijela Vila”) in which he was able to dazzle visiting heads of state with his hospitality. It was here that Tito, Nehru and Nasser signed the Brioni Declaration in 1956, which paved the way for the creation of the Non-Aligned Movement, which nowadays consists of 118 nations (but none of the republics of the former Yugoslavia). Far away from prying eyes, the islands were the perfect spot from which to conduct secret diplomacy – Yugoslav-sponsored terrorist Abu Nidal was a house guest in 1978.

Tito himself resided in an ultra-secluded villa on the islet of Vanga, just off the western coast of Veli Brijun. He contrived to spend as much time here as possible, conducting government business when not busy hunting in his private game reserve or pottering about in his gardens and orchards (tangerines from which were traditionally sent to children’s homes throughout Yugoslavia as a New Year’s gift). International stars attending the Pula Film Festival stayed here as Tito’s personal guests, bestowing his regime with a veneer of showbiz glamour.

After Tito’s death in 1980 the islands were retained as an official residence, and a decade later became the favoured summer destination of President Tuđman. Tuđman’s rank ineptitude as a world statesman ensured that no foreign leader ever came to visit him here, and with successive presidents declining to make use of the islands, it looks like the Brijuni have lost their mythical status in Croatian politics.

How you react to Poreč (Parenzo) may well depend on what time of year you arrive. From May to late September, Istria’s largest tourist resort can seem positively engulfed by mass-market tourism; outside this period it can be just as charming as any other well-kept Mediterranean port. Happily, Poreč’s gargantuan hotel complexes are mainly concentrated in vast tourist settlements like Plava Laguna and Zelena Laguna to the south, and the town’s labyrinthine core of stone houses – ice-cream parlours and tacky souvenir shops notwithstanding – remains relatively unspoiled. The main points in Poreč’s favour are the Romanesque Basilica of Euphrasius, Istria’s one must-see ecclesiastical attraction, and the town’s transport links, which make it a convenient base from which to visit the rest of the Istrian peninsula.

The Basilica of Euphrasius

Poreč’s star turn is the Basilica of Euphrasius (Eufrazijeva basilika), situated in the centre of the town just off Eufrazijeva. Decorated with incandescent mosaics, this sixth-century Byzantine basilica created by Bishop Euphrasius around 535 is the central component of a complex that includes the bishop’s palace, atrium, baptistry and campanile. Entry is through the atrium, an arcaded courtyard whose walls incorporate ancient bits of masonry, although it was heavily restored in the last century.

The basilica was the last in a series of late Roman and early Byzantine churches built on this spot, the remains of which are still in evidence. Surviving stonework from the first, the Oratory of St Maur (named after the saint who is said to have lived in a house on the site), can be seen on the north side of the basilica. This was a secret place of worship when Christianity was still an underground religion, and fragments of mosaic show the sign of the fish, a clandestine Christian symbol of the time. Inside the basilica, the mosaic floor of a later, less secretive church has been carefully revealed through gaps in the existing floor. The present-day basilica is a rather bare structure: everything focuses on the apse, with its superb, late thirteenth-century ciborium and, behind this, the mosaics, with Byzantine solemnity quite different from the geometric late Roman designs. They’re studded with semiprecious gems, encrusted with mother-of-pearl and punctuated throughout by Euphrasius’s personal monogram – he was, it’s said, a notoriously vain man. The central part of the composition shows the Virgin enthroned with Child, flanked by St Maur, a worldly looking Euphrasius holding a model of his church and, next to him, his brother.

On the opposite side of the atrium, the octagonal baptistry (baptisterijum) is bare inside save for the entrance to the campanile, which you can ascend for views of Poreč’s red-brown roof tiles. On the north side of the atrium is the Bishop’s Palace, a seventeenth-century building harbouring a fascinating selection of mosaic fragments that once adorned the basilica floor, and an exquisite collection of Gothic altarpieces and Baroque statuary.

Reached by regular bus, Novigrad (Cittanova), 18km north of Poreč, is a pleasant peninsula-bound place centred around a Venetian-style church, although it has lost most of its old buildings apart from a few toothy sections of town wall. Novigrad’s privately run hotels have more character than the package accommodation in Poreč, and the atmosphere is more laidback all round – this is one place on the west coast where you can safely wander the streets without being stampeded to death by herds of ice-cream-wielding promenaders.

For bathing, the stretch of rock-and-concrete beach on the south side of town is outshone by the wonderful stretch of coastline to the north, where the rocky reefs backed by woods are more attractive and less crowded.

You don’t need to travel away from the sea for long before the hotels and flash apartments give way to rustic villages of heavy grey-brown stone, many of them perched high on hillsides, a legacy of the times when a settlement’s defensive position was more important than its access to cultivable land. The landscape is varied, with fields and vineyards squeezed between pine forests, orchards of oranges and olive groves. It’s especially attractive in autumn, when the hillsides turn a dappled green and auburn, and the hill villages appear to hover eerily above the early morning mists.

Istria’s hilltop settlements owe their appearance to the region’s borderland status. Occupied since Neolithic times, they were fortified and refortified by successive generations, serving as strongholds on the shifting frontier between Venice and Austria. Many suffered serious depopulation after World War II, when local Italians were forced to leave. Empty houses in these half-abandoned towns have been offered to painters, sculptors and musicians in an attempt to keep life going on the hilltops and stimulate tourism at the same time – hence the reinvention of Motovun and Grožnjan in particular as cultural centres.

Beram, 6km west of Pazin just off the road to Poreč and Motovun, is an unspoilt hilltop village with moss-covered stone walls and some of the finest sacred art in the region.

One kilometre northeast of the village is the Chapel of Our Lady on the Rocks (Crkvica svete Marije na škriljinah), a diminutive Gothic church with a set of frescoes dating from 1475, signed by local artist Vincent of Kastav. Of the many well-executed New Testament scenes that cover the chapel interior, two large frescoes stand out. The marvellous, 8m-long equestrian pageant of the Adoration of the Kings reveals a wealth of fine detail – distant ships, mountains, churches and wildlife – strongly reminiscent of early Flemish painting, while on the west wall a Dance of Death is illustrated with macabre clarity: skeletons clasp scythes and blow trumpets, weaving in and out of a Chaucerian procession of citizens led by the pope. A rich merchant brings up the rear, greedily clinging to his possessions while indicating the money with which he hopes to buy his freedom.

Our Lady on the Rocks

Perhaps the most famous of the Istrian hill towns, Motovun (Montona) is an attractive clump of medieval houses straddling a green wooded hill, high above a patchwork of wheatfields and vineyards. Like so many towns in Istria, Motovun was predominantly Italian-speaking until the 1940s (when racing driver Mario Andretti was born here), after which most of the inhabitants left for Italy. The problem of depopulation was partly solved by turning Motovun into an artists’ colony – the godfather of Croatian naïve art, Krsto Hegedušić, was one of the first painters to move here in the 1960s, and several studios and craft shops open their doors to tourists over the summer.

The Motovun Film Festival

All accommodation in Motovun and central Istria is likely to be booked solid during the Motovun Film Festival , which usually straddles a long weekend at the end of July or beginning of August. Since its inception in 1999 the festival has established itself as Croatia’s premier cinematic event, with feature films (European art-house movies for the most part) premiered on an open-air screen in the main town square. Featuring a minimum of segregation between stars and public, the festival is also one of the key social events of the summer, with thousands of celebrants ascending Motovun’s hill – most are here to enjoy the 24-hour party atmosphere as much as the films. Box offices at the entrance to the Old Town sell tickets to the screenings.

Straddling a grassy ridge high above the Mirna valley, Oprtalj (Portole) was, like Motovun, off the map for many years, half of its houses in ruins and tufts of grass growing from the walls of the rest. In recent years, however, it’s undergone a rebirth; old houses are being renovated, new restaurants are opening and more and more visitors are finding out about the place. Both the fifteenth-century St Mary’s Church (Crkva svete Marije) in the village centre, and the sixteenth-century Chapel of St Rock (Crkvica svetog Roka) at the entrance to town have some interesting fresco fragments you can glimpse through the windows; otherwise the nicest way to spend your time here is simply to wander.

The Parenzana hiking and cycling trail

Completed in 1902 but only operational until 1935, the Parenzana (derived from Parenzo, the Italian name for Poreč) was a 130km-long narrow-gauge railway line that linked the port of Trieste with the growing tourist destination of Poreč. It followed a meandering course across the Istrian countryside, with embankments and viaducts negotiating the peninsula’s notoriously up-and-down terrain. The process of converting the former track into a foot- and cycle-path was begun in 2006, with a highly scenic 60km section of the railway (“Parenzana I”) in central Istria receiving most of the initial attention. A second phase (“Parenzana II”), revitalizing the stretch from Vižinada, 10km southwest of Motovun, to Poreč, was completed in 2012.

The most breathtaking sections of the Parenzana are those connecting Buje, Grožnjan, Livade, Motovun and Vižinada. Gradients are reasonably smooth, and seasoned cyclists will be able to cover a lot of ground in the space of a day’s riding; walkers should limit themselves to one stage at a time.

Free maps of the Parenzana are available from tourist offices in inland Istria; for more information see parenzana.net .

North of Motovun on the other side of the Mirna valley, Grožnjan (Grisignana) is an ancient hill village that was severely depopulated during the Italian exodus after World War II and given a new lease of life in the 1970s when many of its properties were offered to artists as studios. There’s also a summer school for young musicians, many of whom take part in outdoor concerts organized as part of the Grožnjan Musical Summer (Grožnjansko glazbeno ljeto), which takes place every August. Indeed high summer is the best time to come, when most of the artists are in residence and a smattering of galleries open their doors. Outside this time, Grožnjan can be exceedingly quiet, but it’s an undeniably attractive spot, with its jumble of shuttered houses made from honey-brown stone, covered in creeping plants. The town’s battlements command superb views of the surrounding countryside, with Motovun perched on its hilltop to the southeast, and the ridge of Mount Učka dominating the horizon beyond it.

The second-largest town in the Istrian interior is Buzet, whose original old hilltop settlement quietly decays on the heights above the River Mirna while the bulk of the population lives in the new town below. Though it’s not as pretty as Motovun or Grožnjan, Buzet has good accommodation, good food and is an excellent base from which to explore the region. The town’s importance as a truffle-hunting centre is celebrated with the Buzetska Subotina festival (“Buzet Saturday”; usually the second weekend of September), when an enormous truffle omelette is cooked on the main square and shared out among thousands of visitors – the tourist office will have details.

Reached by a winding road or a steep flight of stairs, old Buzet’s cobbled streets seem a world away from the largely concrete new quarter down on the valley floor. The remaining ramparts of Buzet’s medieval fortifications provide expansive views, with the Mirna valley below and the imposing grey ridge of the Ćićarija to the east.

Framed against the backdrop of the rocky Ćićarija ridge, the dainty village of Roč, about 10km east of Buzet, sits behind sixteenth-century walls so low that the place looks more like a child’s sandcastle than an erstwhile medieval strongpoint. Roč has a strong folk music tradition centred on an archaic, push-button accordion known as the Trieština, which is rarely found outside Istria and northeastern Italy. The best time to hear it in action is during the International Accordion Festival (Zarmoniku v Roč) over the second weekend in May: the tourist office in Buzet will have details.

With their neat rows of sturdy farmhouses, the narrow lanes of Roč provide a wonderful environment in which to savour the rustic atmosphere of eastern Istria. There’s a small display of Roman tombstones inside the arch of the main gate into town, and the Romanesque St Barthol’s Church (Crkva svetog Bartula) in the centre, an ancient, barn-like structure lurking behind an enormous chestnut tree and sporting an unusually asymmetrical bell tower.

Heaped up on a hill surrounded by grasslands and forest, Hum is the self-proclaimed “smallest town in the world”, since it has preserved all the attributes – walls, gate, church, campanile – that a town is supposed to possess, despite its population having dwindled to a current total of just fourteen. Originally fortified in the eleventh century, Hum was a prosperous place in the Middle Ages, and it still looks quite imposing as you pass through a town gate topped by a castellated bell tower. Beyond, the neo-Baroque Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Crkva blažene djevice Marije), built in 1802 as the last gasp of urban development in a shrinking town, lords it over a settlement which now amounts to two one-metre-wide streets paved with grassed-over cobbles and lined by chunky grey-brown farmhouses. A clutch of souvenir shops (usually open April–Oct) sell Glagolitic characters modelled from clay or wood, and locally made biska (mistletoe brandy).

Compared with the tourist complexes of the west, Istria’s east coast is a relatively quiet area with few obvious attractions. East of Pula , the main road to Rijeka heads inland, remaining at a distance from the shoreline for the next 50km.

Thirty kilometres out of Pula the road passes through RAŠA, built by the Italians as a model coal-mining town in 1937. Alongside neat rows of workers’ houses, Raša also boasts a fine example of Mussolini-era architecture in St Barbara’s Church (Crkva svete Barbare) – Barbara being the patron saint of miners. It’s an austere but graceful structure featuring a campanile in the shape of a pithead, and a curving facade representing an upturned coal barrow.

Five kilometres beyond Raša, Labin is divided into two parts, with an original medieval town crowning the hill above and a twentieth-century suburb, Podlabin, sprawling across the plain below. Labin was for many years the coal-mining capital of the Adriatic, and earned itself a place in working-class history in 1921, when striking miners declared the “Labin Republic” before being pacified by the Italian authorities. There’s precious little sign of mining heritage nowadays apart from the one remaining pithead in Podlabin, which still bears the word “Tito” proudly spelt out in wrought-iron letters. Subsidence caused by mining led to Labin’s Old Town being partially abandoned in the 1980s, although the subsequent decline of the coal industry, coupled with a thoroughgoing restoration programme, encouraged people to return. The offer of cheap studio space encouraged artists to move to old Labin, and several ateliers open their doors from April through to October. It’s consequently one of the more attractive of Istria’s hill towns – all the more so for its proximity to the beach at Rabac, only forty minutes’ walk downhill.

The Old Town

Labin’s hilltop Old Town is a warren of steep alleys threading their way between houses attractively decked out in ochres and pinks. At the highest point of the Old Town there is a viewing terrace providing superb views of the coast, with Rabac in the foreground and the mountainous shape of Cres beyond.

Top image: Ancient town Buzet with bell tower and old buildings flying above clouds. Unusual landscape of tourist destination in Istria, Croatia © Mny-Jhee/Shutterstock

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15 Reasons to Travel to Istria, Croatia

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The first time I traveled to Istria, Croatia, it was on a bit of a whim. I was desperate to finally visit the Balkans in general and Croatia in particular; when researching, I found out it was cheapest to fly into Pula. Well. If it was that much cheaper, why not?

I did book that flight to Pula, deciding to spend a few days exploring the surroundings. And I fell for Istria — hard. The Italian flavor, the hill towns that rose out of the green landscape, the way that roses seemed to burst out of the pavement. This place was so special. I can’t believe I almost didn’t visit it!

Istria hadn’t been in my original Croatia plan — but it ended up being one of the highlights of my trip. So much that I returned to see more. I’ve been recommending it nonstop to my friends for years. On my last trip to Istria, I even met up with a reader!

The Dalmatian Coast may get most of the attention in Croatia — but you might be even more enchanted by the northwest heart-shaped peninsula.

Here’s why you should travel to Istria.

Table of Contents

Here is a map of Istria, with the most popular destinations highlighted. As you can see, it’s well-connected within Croatia, and right on the border of Slovenia, and with easy access via ferry or driving to Italy.

The nice thing about Istria is that pretty much any two points are within a two-hour drive of each other. And most journeys are shorter than that. If you rent a car in Istria (and you should), literally everywhere is day-trippable!

Italian Flavor in Croatia

As soon as you arrive in Istria, you’ll be struck by how much Istria feels like Italy. The vineyards, the olive groves, seaside villages painted the colors of Liguria, hill towns that look straight out of Tuscany. And you’ll notice that places here have Italian names as well as Croatian names — Rovinj is Rovigno, Bale is Valle, Grožnjan is Grisignana.

Look at that picture above. If someone asked you what country that was, you’d say Italy, wouldn’t you? It’s actually Rovinj!

Istria has a long history of being conquered and reconquered by different cultures: the Franks in 788, the Venetians in 1145, the Hapsburg Empire in 1348, Napoleon in 1797. Between World War I and World War II, Istria was part of Italy; following the war, it became part of Yugoslavia, before Croatia became independent in 1991.

As a result, Istria is a mélange of different cultures and has a very different feel from the Dalmatian Coast. Food is the center of life; locals paint their homes bright colors. And the Italian influence remains steady — from the many kinds of olive oil to the wild, animated conversations of locals.

Picture-Perfect Small Towns

If you love charming small towns, Istria is the best place in Italy to explore them! Each town has its own character, and each town’s residents will claim it’s the best town in Istria!

A perfect day in Istria would be setting out early and visiting four or five towns over the course of a day, stopping in one for a leisurely lunch.

So which small towns are best to explore? I recommend you explore Motovun and Grožnjan at the absolute minimum. (They’re also a 20-minute drive apart, so you can visit both in a single day.)

But there are plenty of other good ones: Vodnjan and Bale pair well together. Labin makes a nice getaway from Pula. Umag and Novigrad are beautiful coastal small towns. Plus, there’s Hum — which claims to be the smallest town in the world.

Ah, truffles. One of the most expensive and luxurious foods on the planet. One of the most enchantingly recognizable tastes in the world.

Did I mention that Istria is rich in truffles? Truffle dishes are so common here that it’s almost an embarrassment of riches.

One of my favorite Istria experiences is ordering traditional fuži pasta with truffles and a glass of white Malvasia wine at one of the restaurants on the edge of the hilltop of Motovun, overlooking the landscape. These truffles are shaved thin enough to be translucent but thick enough to make a satisfying chew.

In New York, a plate of pasta with that many shaved truffles could run you around $50. Here in Istria? Maybe $11 or so.

With prices like those, why not get them for every meal?

Pula’s Arena

Pula is the largest city in Istria, home to the peninsula’s airport. If you’re a fan of ruins in the least, you’ll need to stop in Pula to see its enormous Roman Arena!

Constructed between 27 BC and 67 AD, Pula’s arena is one of the six largest Roman amphitheaters in the world. It’s the only amphitheater to have all four side towers intact. It’s well worth exploring as an ancient monument — but if you play your timing right, you might even get to see a concert here!

Pula isn’t my first choice of where to stay in Istria — it’s a decent city, but I think other towns have more to offer. But Pula is a nice place to spend an afternoon or evening. Check out the Arena; stroll through the old town; get some pizza at Jupiter Pizzeria .

Motovun will take your breath away the first time you see it. You turn a corner and there it is, bursting out of the earth, a city improbably built on top of a hill. How can a place like this exist today? How do people actually live here?!

It’s a long, steep walk uphill to get to the top of Motovun. (If you have mobility difficulties, you may want to skip Motovun — there’s no way around the steep, slippery cobblestones.) Once you get to the top, you’re rewarded with views all over the countryside.

Definitely stop here for lunch overlooking the surrounding hills. Take a walk around the city walls, peering into corners. And if you’re here in late July or early August, you might get to experience the Motovun Film Festival!

(Tip: this photo was taken at a fast food restaurant called Fast Food Vidik. Stop there for photos! It’s the best view of the city.)

Istria Beaches

You don’t come to Croatia for sandy beaches — and that’s true for Istria as well. (Yes, there are some sandy beaches here and there, but the vast majority of Croatia’s beaches are slabs of rock or pebble beaches.) But you end up with absolutely beautiful beaches and clear turquoise Adriatic water.

One of my favorite places to enjoy the beach in Istria is Cape Kamenjak, just south of the town of Premantura. This protected area, at the bottom tip of Istria’s heart-shaped peninsula, is home to more than 30 km of beaches. You can swim, cliff dive, rent boats, or just drive around until you find your own perfect beach.

There are some nice beaches on the edges of Rovinj, Rabac, and Umag as well if you want easier access to town.

Keep in mind that Istria’s summer isn’t as long as Dalmatia’s — if you’re looking for hot days and swimming, I’d recommend visiting Istria from mid-June to mid-September, with the warmest water in September. More on that below.

Vodnjan and its Mummies

Vodnjan is one of the coolest small towns in Istria, easily situated between Rovinj and Pula. Vodnjan is a pretty cool place to hang out, with dramatic colors and tons of street art. That bright red building is one of the symbols of the town.

But what puts Vodnjan over the edge? Mummies. Actual mummies.

The Church of St. Blaise is home to the mummified remains of six saints: St. Leon Bembo, St. John Olini, and St. Nicolosa Bursa, as well as parts of St. Sebastian, St. Mary of Egypt, and St. Barbara. You go into the back of the church and they light up, one by one, telling you their stories.

Photography is absolutely not allowed, but just standing there, experiencing them on your own, is a creepy experience. The church is also home to a collection of sacral art.

Rovinj is the showstopper of Istria, and one of the most popular spots in the country. Dubrovnik may be more famous overall, but I think Rovinj is the most beautiful city in Croatia!

Rovinj is a photographer’s dream. It’s worth exploring Rovinj’s old city at different times of day, from different angles, and catching the sunset as well. One of the loveliest things to do in Rovinj is simply sit on the edge of the water with a drink, enjoying the scenery around you!

Rovinj also has some nice beaches, fun boat trips, and an interesting selection of shops. Honestly, I wouldn’t plan a trip to Istria without spending at least one day in Rovinj!

More on Rovinj:

Visiting Rovinj, Croatia: A Travel Guide

Grožnjan and its Art and Music

Grožnjan isn’t just one of my favorite small towns in Istria — it’s one of my favorite small towns in the WORLD! This city, perched on a hill in the middle of the countryside, feels like a fairy tale. From the moment you’ve arrived, it feels like you’ve stepped into a new world.

Grožnjan is filled with interesting shops and galleries, making it a nice place to pick up a piece of artwork. (I myself picked up some vintage-style Croatia postcards.)

But best of all, Grožnjan is home to a music school. When you’re walking through the streets, you’ll hear a pianist and a singer practicing together, then in the next place you’ll hear a violinist tuning up, then you’ll hear an oboist practicing a solo.

Is Grožnjan touristy? Indeed it is. But trust me, it’s worth visiting.

This tiny town will always put me into a better mood.

Istrian Wine

Yes indeed, Istria is a major wine region! Croatia is a very underrated wine country, in part because most of Croatia’s wineries are small operations and don’t do much international exportation.

Malvazija Istarska , or Malvasia, is Istria’s signature varietal. A light white wine with citrusy notes, it pairs well with oysters and shellfish — though I personally think there’s no better accompaniment than a plate of truffle pasta!

Teran is a full-bodied red varietal with berry notes that’s starting to earn international recognition.

Driving around the countryside and stopping at wineries is a wonderful way to spend a day in Istria — though keep in mind that you need a designated driver!

The Rovinj Wine Festival takes place in September, with opportunities to sample lots of Istrian wines. And don’t forget to say cheers in Croatian — Živjeli!

A Child-Free Jazz Cafe in Bale

Yeah, this might be a bit unusual to put on a list, but I think it’s worth it! Back when I first visited Istria in 2012, Bale was the town on everyone’s lips. Some big publications like Lonely Planet were rhapsodic about Bale. (Personally, I think Bale is nice, but Grožnjan, Vodnjan, and Motovun are nicer.)

Bale’s coolest landmark is Kamene Price — an artsy cafe, performance space, and guesthouse. And when we stopped in for a coffee, we noticed a sign saying that they were a child-free establishment.

Don’t get me wrong, Croatia is massively child-friendly. Which is great.

But sometimes it’s nice to have places where you can sit and know that you can enjoy a coffee in peace without kids turning it into a war zone.

Euphrasian Basilica in Poreč

Istria is home to exactly one UNESCO World Heritage Site: the Episcopal Complex of the Euphrasian Basilica in the Historic Centre of Poreč. This religious complex is renowned for its classical and Byzantine elements, both of which you can see in the photo above.

While it’s a nice place to visit for the historic value, seeing the chapel at the end is spell-binding. The incredible gold-painted Byzantine monuments; all the different patterns carved into the stone. It’s one of the most marvelous places to see in Istria.

Poreč is just north of Rovinj on the coast — though you have to drive around the Lim Channel, so the drive takes 40 minutes. The town to me felt like a baby Rovinj. I hear it’s one of the bigger party spots in Istria.

Poreč is definitely worth a quick visit, no matter where you’re staying on your Istria vacation.

The Smallest Town in the World

The Istrian hamlet of Hum claims to be the smallest town in the world. Is it really? Probably not. But that’s what they call themselves, and it’s a delightful stop in the heart of Istria.

Hum is worth a wander when you’re driving around and looking at hill towns in the greenest parts of Istria.

Affordable Prices

I always warn people that Croatia is more expensive than people think it is — mainly because people erroneously believe Croatia to be Eastern Europe. ( Don’t ever call Croatia Eastern Europe, by the way. ) You won’t pay Scandinavia prices — but prices in Croatia tend to be closer to Italy, Spain, or Greece.

That being said, Istria tends to be cheaper than many places on the Dalmatian Coast, especially popular spots like Dubrovnik and Hvar .

It’s a good idea to compare similar types of destinations with each other: Rovinj is cheaper than Dubrovnik; Pula is cheaper than Split; Umag and Novigrad are cheaper than, say, Trogir. Getting an apartment near Premantura will be cheaper than near Makarska.

Istria isn’t cheaper than everywhere in Italy, but it’s definitely cheaper than Tuscany.

Food and wine in Istria tends to be cheaper than Dalmatia, too, especially when it comes to the famous truffles.

No matter which country you’re visiting, small towns, inland destinations, and rural areas will run you less than cities, coastal areas, and popular tourist spots.

Finally, if you’re looking to have a cheap trip to Istria, consider camping! Istria is a very popular destination for camping in Europe, and there are many excellent campgrounds.

Easy Access to the Rest of Croatia

If you’re looking to make Istria a portion of a longer Croatia trip, that’s a great idea. In fact, that’s what I’ve always done.

From Motovun, it’s a three-hour drive to Zagreb , a 3.5-hour drive to the Plitvice Lakes, a four-hour drive to Zadar ( one of my favorites! ) and a five-hour drive to Split, from where you can get ferries to islands.

Whatever you do, I recommend stopping for a coffee in Opatija on the way out. Opatija is at the entrance to the Istrian peninsula but technically not part of Istria county. It is VERY popular with Austrian travelers, so much that it’s called the “Austrian Riviera.”

It’s a peculiar place. There are large Hapsburg-style buildings, crenellated in pink and orange and yellow, almost like wedding cakes. Oh, and speaking of cakes, there are lots of them — because the Austrians know their way around coffee and cake. As for the beach, here there’s just a slab of concrete pushed up against the bright blue water, topped with hundreds of beach chairs and umbrellas.

I would never choose to spend extended time in Opatija, but it’s worth a coffee, a cake, and a stroll along the water.

Best Places to Visit in Istria

There are so many wonderful places to visit in Istria — but unless you have a few weeks to spend here, you’ll need to pare down the list. I think there are a few places that stand head and shoulders above the rest.

Spend one day in Motovun and Grožnjan. These are the two quintessential hill towns of Istria — two marvelous small towns in which you’ll want to linger. If you’ve got more time, add in a visit to Buje, too.

Spend one day in Rovinj. I think Rovinj is the prettiest city in Croatia — yes, even more so than Dubrovnik — and you really need a full day to explore all that makes Rovinj magical.

Spend half a day or a full day beach-hopping in Kamenjak, followed by an evening in Pula. On the way back, stop in Pula to check out the Arena, stroll the old town and grab some dinner. If you’re only spending a few hours in Kamenjak, add in quick visits to Bale and Vodnjan, next door to each other.

Those are the top destinations I’d prioritize. But if you have more time:

If you like seaside villages like Rovinj, check out Umag, Novigrad, Poreč, and Rabac.

If you like small towns like Grožnjan, Bale, and Vodnjan, check out Labin, Buje, Buzet, and Pazin.

If you like nature destinations like Kamenjak, be sure to check out the Brijuni Islands, visit the Lim Channel, and go exploring, looking for lesser-known beaches!

Where to Stay in Istria

ROXANICH , a family owned boutique wine hotel in Motovun, is my top recommendation for where to stay in Istria. This is the hotel that I love to enjoy on my travels — it’s family-owned and very local; it’s quirky, modern and daring; and it’s small enough for you to feel special. (ROXANICH hosted me for three nights; all opinions are my own).

ROXANICH is located in Motovun, which gives you easy access all over Istria, but it’s also located at the bottom of Motovun, not on the hill, so you don’t need to spend 20 minutes climbing the hill to get there every day. There’s ample space and plenty of parking, too.

Just take a look at this place!

ROXANICH is a small property that feels like a resort — and there’s plenty of space. The food is excellent, too, and you could easily spend a few days without going far from the property.

But what’s interesting is what they do with wine.

Owner Mladen Rožanić is constantly trying out new innovations with his wine. Like most Istrian wineries, they have their own Malvasia, along with plenty of whites, reds, and rosés.

But they also blend their local grapes with grapes from different regions — like Dingač, my beloved red wine from Pelješac.

Combining your own grapes with grapes grown in another region? Many winemakers would consider that sacrilege. Not Mladen. It’s all a wonderful experiment to him.

And it goes well beyond Istria. I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw their Georgian qvevri — underground wine containers made of clay that I never dreamed I’d see outside Georgia! There’s niche, and then there’s qvevri wine made in Istria.

Can you wine taste? Can you wine taste!! Oh yes. We did quite a bit of tasting of wine. Endlessly interesting.

I really enjoyed staying at ROXANICH. After a long day of road-tripping around Istria, I loved coming back to have a dip in the pool and a cocktail, and at night, it was pleasant sitting under the stars and enjoying the latest wine recommended by the sommelier.

Rates at ROXANICH start at 77 Euros per night ($90 USD). I recommend staying three nights to get the most out of the hotel and its idyllic surroundings.

Beyond Motovun, if you have more than four days to spend in Istria, I suggest basing in two different places — perhaps pair somewhere inland with somewhere along the seaside.

Additionally, make sure you don’t base somewhere too small. As much as I adore Grožnjan, it’s tiny and it gets pretty dead at night. Plus I wouldn’t be a fan of driving that narrow hilltop road in darkness!

Best Time to Visit Istria

Most travelers to Croatia come during the summer months — and that goes for Istria as well. This is when Istria gets the most visitors and prices are at their highest.

Summer is lovely, though it can get very hot in July and August. But you should keep in mind that while Istria has a Mediterranean climate and is perched on the Adriatic, it doesn’t get as hot as Dalmatia in the south of Croatia. When your friends are sunning themselves in Hvar in May, you may be going around in a jacket or cardigan in Pula.

In Dubrovnik, you can go swimming in October; I doubt you’d want to do that in Istria.

For that reason, I recommend visiting Istria in the shoulder season: September would be my top recommended month. By this point it’s still warm and lovely, but kids are back in school, which cuts down on the crowds. And if you stay into the fall, you’ll get to enjoy the best of the harvest. Including plenty of new wines!

• Best Time to Visit Croatia

How to Get Around Istria

The best way to get around Istria is to drive — plain and simple. Like I said, I wouldn’t get around Istria any other way!

Croatia is one of my favorite countries in Europe to explore by car. The roads are in excellent condition. The signage is clear and easy to navigate for English speakers. The drivers aren’t nearly as aggressive as their neighbors (yep, I’m talking about you, Slovenia and Montenegro).

The only catch is that the tolls on the major highways can be quite pricey. For example, Zagreb to Pula, just over a three-hour drive, costs 139 kuna, or $12.68.

But if you’re staying within Istria, those highways can easily be avoided, and it doesn’t make a huge difference in driving time. Plus, those curvy smaller roads are way more fun to drive!

Remember that automatic cars are more expensive than manual cars (driving stick) in Croatia, and if you’re driving into Slovenia or Italy, as many Istria visitors do, be sure to let the company know, as this could change your pricing and insurance coverage.

If you don’t drive, there are ways to get around Istria by public transportation, primarily by bus, but this limits your ability to visit smaller, less-connected towns. If I were exploring Istria without a car, I would base myself in the largest, best-connected towns and use a combination of buses and taxis to get from place to place. Uber is not available in Istria.

Istria is Waiting for You!

Istria is one of the best places in Croatia — and it feels like such a surprise. Istria has meant a lot to me over the years, and I know it will mean a lot to you, too.

Go enjoy your time in Istria — then come back and tell me about it!

Planning a Trip to Croatia:

• Two Weeks in Croatia Itinerary
• What NOT to Do in Croatia
• Solo Female Travel in Croatia: Is it Safe?
• 30 Stunning Mediterranean Islands To Visit In Your Lifetime

Croatian Islands and the Dalmatian Coast:

• How to Spend Three Days in Dubrovnik
• Why Korčula, Croatia, is the Coolest Island of All
• Vis, Croatia, is a Quietly Stunning Island
• Dubrovnik Survival Guide
• The Waterfalls of Krka National Park
• A Place Like Zadar
• 30 Fabulous Things To Do in Split, Croatia
• 29 Sunny Things To Do In Hvar, Croatia

Istria and the North:

• Guide to Rovinj, Croatia’s Prettiest City
• 21 Unforgettable Things To Do In Zagreb, Croatia

Have you been to Istria? Have any recommendations? Share away!

• Living In Croatia
• Croatian Recipes
• Balkan Recipes

Home > Istria In Croatia: 23 Off The Beaten Path Places To Visit In Istria

Istria In Croatia: 23 Off The Beaten Path Places To Visit In Istria

Written by our local expert SJ

Sarah-Jane has lived in Croatia for 10+ years. SJ, as she is known, has been traveling the Balkans & beyond since 2000. She now shares her passion for traveling with her husband & kids.

If you’re considering visiting Istria, chances are you’ve heard of its heavy hitters in the main towns of Pula, Rovinj, and Motovun. But as someone who’s called Croatia home and spent weeks exploring Istria over the last decade, I’m here to guide you down the Istrian road less traveled.

In my Istria travel guide, we’ll explore my favorite part of Croatia, where crowds thin out. Still, the cultural tapestry remains vivid, woven with the rich threads of Italian and Croatian heritage.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Best Things To Do In Istria

In this post, I’ll share with you Istria’s lesser-known side, the one I’ve come to cherish through years of discovery. You’ll be privy to the authentic spots that have captured my heart – beautiful places devoid of fanfare but brimming with charm.

I’ll reveal where to dig into the most robust Istrian meals and indulge in genuine truffle experiences that I’ve come to anticipate each year. Plus, we’ll visit local haunts where tradition isn’t just preserved; it’s a way of life. 

Istria’s landscapes, a stunning canvas of rolling hills and sparkling seas, have been the backdrop to my wanderings. They’re waiting to color your experiences, too, from the vineyards that stretch like green seas to the towns where every stone tells a story.

The best part? If you’re coming from Zagreb, the journey to Istria is an easy transition from urban rush to pastoral calm. You’re never far from the tranquility of Istria’s hills and the warmth of its people.

Let’s step off the beaten path and into the heart of Istria – the places that don’t always make the postcards but are always highlighted in my every return.

Best Places To Visit In Istria Croatia

1. brijuni islands.

Just a short boat ride from Fažana, the Brijuni Islands await a tranquil retreat. Once the summer residence of President Tito, this cluster of 14 islands is now a National Park celebrated for its unspoiled nature and historical sites.

Here, you can hop on a tour to explore ancient Roman villas and a safari park with exotic animals. The main island, Veli Brijun, is the most accessible and offers a little bit of everything, from historical tours to simply basking in the serene beauty of untouched Mediterranean landscapes. 

For the kids, look out for the dinosaur footprints!

2. Lim Fjord

If you find yourself in Istria and have a hankering for some of the freshest oysters you’ll ever taste, Lim Fjord is your go-to spot.

Officially known as Lim Bay or Lim Channel, this stretch of the Adriatic Sea cuts into the Istrian coast like a Norse fjord, offering a briny bounty that’s as delicious as it is renowned.

The fjord’s unique mixture of fresh and saltwater creates an ideal environment for shellfish — and the oysters here? They’re a local favorite for a reason. Pull up a chair at one of the fjord’s waterside eateries, and you’ll be served oysters that were likely plucked from the sea that very day.

Paired with a crisp glass of Malvasia, a local white wine, you’ll quickly understand why this is more than a meal; it’s an experience. Beyond the shellfish, the fjord itself is a sight to behold, with steep, green-lined cliffs that provide a dramatic backdrop to your culinary adventure.

Unique Things To See Along The Istrian Coast

3. novigrad – between umag & poreč..

One of three towns in Croatia with the same name, Istria’s Novigrad , is sometimes called Novigrad Istarski to avoid confusion. This beautiful town lies on a small peninsula on the northern coast of Istria, roughly in the middle between Umag and Poreč.

Its origins go back to the 5th and 6th centuries, and during the Middle Ages, it was the seat of the Diocese of Novigrad. The town’s layout and general structure have retained much of that medieval history. There are still numerous narrow, winding streets in its old town center. Lots of small atmospheric shops still occupy the old buildings.

Dive into the charm of Umag, a quaint coastal town in Istria that offers more than just stunning beaches and clear blue waters. Renowned for its thriving nightlife and top-notch tennis facilities – having played host to the ATP Croatia Open for many years – Umag simultaneously provides a peaceful escape and active vacation.

While exploring the old town, you’ll be greeted by ancient walls and stunning architecture, providing the kind of beauty that calls for leisurely strolls and al fresco dining. Getting to Umag is a breeze, with its proximity to Italy and Slovenia making it accessible by car. At the same time, Pula Airport, approximately 83 km away, is the nearest airport for those arriving by plane.

Another great small town in Istria is Vrsar. This small fishing town lies about 10 kilometers south of Poreč, about halfway down the west coast of Istria.

It occupies a small coastal hill, while several small islets lie just off its scenic waterfront. Like many other seaside towns in Istria, Vrsar also has a lovely marina and a vibrant old town.

Its old town consists of winding streets, alleys, and charming stone buildings. There’s a beautiful waterfront promenade, too, while various viewpoints offer fine views of the surrounding landscape and are excellent sunset-viewing locations. It is a fun destination to stretch your legs for an hour or two while road-tripping  around Istria.

Fažana is a charming little coastal town in Istria, often seen as the gateway to the enchanting Brijuni Islands. It’s a lovely place where the local fishing trade still bustles, giving visitors a taste of authentic coastal life. The town’s waterfront is lined with colorful buildings and has a promenade ideal for leisurely walks, with views stretching out to the northern Adriatic Sea and the archipelago beyond.

You can spend your time here exploring the local markets, where fresh catch and regional olive oil tastings are up for grabs, or perhaps eat your way through the fish restaurants.

Fazana isn’t just a feast for the palate; its beaches are a treat for the senses, too. Wandering through the main town, you’ll find a charming blend of old-world allure and vibrant life. It’s the kind of place that’s tranquil enough to unwind yet lively enough to keep the holiday spirits high.

Pastel-hued buildings and soaring church spires sketch a postcard-perfect skyline, while a diverse array of accommodations ensures there’s a cozy spot for every traveler and every budget. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a week, Fazana’s charm is sure to make a lasting impression.

7.  Premantura

Premantura is your laid-back escape from the everyday rush. Just a quick jaunt from the energetic pulse of Pula, this small town is your launchpad to the wild beauty of Cape Kamenjak, where rugged landscapes meet tranquil seas.

In Premantura, life slows down to a comfortable, easy-going rhythm. Here, you’re not just another face in the crowd but part of a community where local cafes, quaint accommodations, and neighborhood shops make you feel right at home.

Outdoor enthusiasts, get ready. Premantura is all about embracing the call of the wild. Hit the trails on a bike or on foot to snag some Instagram-worthy clifftop views, or chill out in hidden coves with water so clear you’d think it’s glass. And if you’re into windsurfing or kayaking, the breezes here are as inviting as the myriad of islets just a paddle away. As evening falls, kick back and watch the sunset perform its daily spectacle, turning the sky into a live canvas.

Whether you’re rolling solo, bringing the family for some quality beach time, or looking for a low-key romantic getaway, Premantura is about as authentic as it gets.

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Charming towns in istria for your itinerary, 8. završje, close to motovun.

Završje lies in northwestern Istria, not too far from Motovun . Also perched scenically atop a hill, this is a real architectural gem . Built with wood and stone, Završje is one of the most off-the-beaten-path places in Istria. Few tourists ever go there—those who do love the experience.

This is not a big town by any means. If anything, it’s a village. Built atop a prehistoric fort and strategically important to the Romans, its roots go back thousands of years. Medieval and Venetian noblemen later recognized the town’s beauty and significance, adding more fortifications.

Therefore, even though it’s less visited, Završje has lots to check out. From its palace and castle to the Church of St. Mary and the Church of St. Rocco, there are plenty of architectural highlights, especially considering its size. Another notable feature is the Three Istrian Musketeers cycling route .

In the same area as Završje, also near Motovun, Oprtalj is another of the Istrian hilltop towns worth visiting . This small town also features fortified town walls, a bell tower, and winding alleyways. It’s a fantastic place to immerse yourself in Istria’s rich history and fascinating folklore.

Oprtalj’s churches are adorned with works of art. Simultaneously, the restaurant that overlooks the valley below serves traditional dishes—don’t forget to try the local white and black truffles if you have not already!

Gastronomy plays a significant role in the story of tourism in Oprtalj. It has  many farms, and agricultural taverns are places you should check out when visiting Istria.

Try to plan your visit to Oprtalj around the town’s famous chestnut fair – known as a kestenijada! We spent a glorious day at the fair with the two kids. It is even the place where my youngest learned to walk and took his first jittery steps. 

Between the huge kid’s park, music, beer, wine, food, and chestnuts, there is plenty to keep you (and the kids) happy for many hours. The entrance is free, and the prices of food and drinks are very reasonable.

10. Vodnjan

Located about 10 kilometers north of Pula, Vodnjan is another often-overlooked town in Istria that is well worth visiting. It’s a typical Istrian town packed with olive groves. Its historical town center is filled with beautiful old buildings, numerous churches, cobbled streets, and authentic shops .

In terms of tourist attractions, Vodnjan has a lot going for it, including some possible surprises. This historic city dates back over half a millennium and was the first of all Istria towns to get electric city lighting. You can still see that very first electric lamp in town!

Additionally, Vodnjan also has its own collection of mummies. You didn’t see that coming, right?! You can see Vodnjan’s mummies, which are the preserved bodies of saints, in glass cases at the Church of Saint Blaise. That church, by the way, is also the largest in Istria, housing hundreds of religious relics, including, supposedly, one of the thorns of Jesus’ crown, a piece of Jesus’ cross, and a fragment of the veil of the Holy Virgin. This makes this stunning church a popular pilgrimage destination in Istria.

Another central claim to fame of this beautiful town is that it has the longest street in all of Istria. There’s plenty to see and do here for a few hours, in other words!

Another family first happened here – my eldest son ate his very first plate of the magical Istrian pljukanci pasta. Albeit with butter and not the Boskarin saice, we did.

Situated deep in the center of Istria, far away from the crowds along the coastal towns, Hum is self-proclaimed as the smallest town in the world —but not officially, as in the Guinness Book of World Records that we can see.

Although its population fluctuates between twenty to thirty, it is an official town – with a mayor and all.

Just this fact alone would make it an interesting place to visit, but there’s more to it than that. This tiny village consists of no more than about a dozen stone houses and is entirely encircled by a stone wall.

Surprisingly, such a small place needed to be fortified at a particular point in its history, a testimony to the fact that this region was once much contested, a fertile landscape valuable to several foreign powers.

Attractions in and around Hum include the Glagolitic Alley, a three-kilometer-long walkway lined with massive stone monuments, the Romanic Chapel of St. Jerolim, and the stone streets, buildings, and walls. You may also want to explore the lush landscapes in the area, home to truffle forests , meadows, and hills.

Istria has many other charming towns beyond Rovinj, Motovun, and even Porec and Pula . One of the top Istrian places I suggest you visit is Bale.

It is situated in the southwestern corner of the Istrian peninsula, about twenty kilometers from Pula. This medieval town, its origins in the Roman stronghold known as Castrum Vallis, is sometimes regarded as the best-kept secret in Istria.

Constructed entirely from stone, it features a labyrinth of cobbled streets lined with old stone townhouses, a Gothic-Renaissance castle, and the 36-meter-high bell tower of the St. Julian Church.

A laid-back and welcoming atmosphere awaits you in this friendly town, while nearby rocky beaches and the camping area are among the most pristine on the triangular peninsula.

13. Labin – A Rovinj & Motovun Mix

Perhaps the best possible mix of Rovinj and Motovun, two of the most popular tourist destinations in Istria, Labin lies about three kilometers from the Adriatic Sea. Set 325 meters high on a hill, it offers gorgeous views of the Kvarner Gulf, including the coastal resort of Rabac.

Labin is a quintessential picturesque hilltop town featuring the colorful architecture that’s found most notably in Rovinj. Its steep and narrow, sometimes cobbled streets take you on a fun urban adventure, while countless pastel-colored buildings contribute to the undeniable charm of this less-visited Istrian town.

For such a small town, it packs a large number of attractions. These include the Fortica Fortress, the Mining Museum , and numerous art galleries and museums. Of course, it wouldn’t be a town in Istria, a food-focused region, if there weren’t several excellent restaurants as well.

14. Grožnjan

Known as the “Town of Artists,” Grožnjan is a pretty hilltop town typical of Istria filled with studios and art galleries. It’s the setting of summer film schools, art, and music workshops.

It hosts an annual jazz festival, recently getting well-deserved international recognition as one of Europe’s best small jazz festivals. Additionally, it would do its nickname of artist’s town injustice if there wasn’t an annual painting festival, too!

This charming town boasts some beautiful medieval architecture in its historic center, fun cobbled streets, and amazing views of the surrounding Istrian countryside.

Engage with the rustic charm and gastronomic wonders of Buje, known particularly for unearthing the largest white truffle, propelling it to fame amongst culinary enthusiasts. This Istrian town, located near the Slovenian border, is a beacon for those exploring the best places to visit in Istria, particularly for wine and truffle aficionados.

Wandering through its old cobblestone streets, you’ll discover historical elements interspersed with vibrant eateries and bars. Buje is easily accessible by road from various points in Istria, and with the nearest airports being Trieste (Italy) and Pula, it’s possible to combine your visit with other European destinations.

16. Svetvinčenat

Calling Svetvinčenat a town might be somewhat of an overstatement. Home to just over 2,000 people, this is more like a village than an actual town .

Nonetheless, it boasts a centuries-long history and is home to a few fascinating historic attractions, making it a worthy stop on any Istria road trip itinerary.

The village grew around a Benedictine abbey, first mentioned in historical documents dating from the 10th century. Its premier tourist attraction nowadays is the striking Morosini-Grimani Castle, one of the best-preserved Venetian buildings in Istria. The Renaissance square, known as “Placa,” is a fun place to wander across, too, while the Church of Saint Vincent has remains of beautiful frescoes.

Nestled in the heart of Istria, Žminj exudes an authenticity that captivates those seeking to explore the best of Istria away from the bustling tourist hotspots. With its picturesque stone houses and narrow winding streets, Žminj offers a step back in time while simultaneously providing a vibrant cultural scene through its various festivals and events, showcasing traditional Istrian music, dance, and cuisine.

The centrally located town serves as an excellent starting point for exploring Istria by car, allowing you to embark on a delightful Istria trip, discovering charming villages and stunning landscapes that dot the region.

Each August, the town hosts the Bartulja festival, a celebration of its patron saint that transforms the quiet streets into a showcase of folklore and tradition. If you’re looking to explore Istria beyond its glossy veneer, a day in Žminj, with its welcoming residents and enduring customs, is a must.

A rather unassuming small town in Istria at first, Pićan has a cultural heritage so rich it would make other similarly sized towns across Europe super-jealous. Its history goes back to Roman times when this was the site of a military stronghold called Petina. Incidentally, the Pićan area’s wine was so good it was renowned even in the highest social classes in Rome . Nowadays, you can still sample world-class wine here!

Later on, Pićan was the seat of the Diocese of Pićan, one of the oldest and smallest dioceses in the Christian world, from the 5th to the 18th century. It became a thriving medieval community complete with governors, officers, and various artisans during this period. The 14th-century Town Gate is still the prominent landmark in town.

Other top attractions in Pićan are the Parish Church of the Announcement with its striking Bell Tower, the Church of Saint Michael, and the Saint Helen Viewpoint.

Historic Gems Around The Istrian Peninsula

19. glagolitic alley.

On my travels through Istria, I encountered the Glagolitic Alley—a notable 7km stretch from Roč to Hum, lined with 11 monuments that narrate the tale of the Glagolitic Script, right up to the imposing town gates of Hum. 

Let’s delve into the Glagolitic Script. It’s the oldest Slavic alphabet, emerging in the 9th century. Think of it as a fusion of Greek and Latin scripts conceived by the scholarly St Cyril. This Byzantine monk from Thessaloniki, along with his brother St Methodius, was tasked by Emperor Michael III in 863 to spread Christianity in Great Moravia.

During their mission, they sought to democratize the Christian texts. The result was the Glagolitic Script, but it wasn’t straightforward. Direct translations from Latin or Greek were impractical, leading to the invention of a new language, drawing from the Macedonian Slavic dialect of Thessaloniki.

The script gradually became integral to the region, surviving well beyond its creators’ lifetimes and leaving its imprint across Croatia. Despite Latin’s eventual dominance, Glagolitic’s heritage is immortalized on Glagolitic Avenue.

The script’s name originates from the Slavic word for ‘speaking.’ It’s even found its way into modern culture, appearing in video games like The Witcher and TV shows such as Log Horizon. It also diversified into styles like Angular and Round Glagolitic. Although it’s not used in daily communication today, its significance to Croatian culture is undeniable.

It’s a unique opportunity to connect with a vital piece of Croatia’s cultural heritage.

20. Dvigrad Ruins

Its name meaning “Two Towns,” Dvigrad initially consists of two separate communities, Castel Parentino and Moncastello. Only the ruins of Moncastello remain today. This abandoned medieval town is one of Istria’s most fascinating attractions, having been inhabited from Illyrian times through the 18th century.

You can visit the ruins of Dvigrad today and wander through the remains of this medieval town castle. Surviving buildings and structures, although severely ruined, include two rings of town walls, defensive towers, the imposing Church of Saint Sophia, the main town square, and the palace.

Peaceful Retreats In Green Istria

We used Livade as our base for exploring a section of Istria on more than one occasion. We did so for several reasons:

• For its proximity to Motovun and the surrounding villages we planned to explore in Istria
• We found a great place that has views across to Motovun, and that had a heated swimming pool
• The Zigante Truffle festival takes residence here for ten weekends over September, October, and November  – and we wanted to spend time eating and drinking our way around the festival.

Livade is small, but it is an excellent base for central Istria. There is a market, several  coffee spots , and several excellent restaurants. I totally recommend Konoba Dorjana. A blog reader suggested it to me, and my host also gave it the local thumbs up – we ate two of our best meals there! Try the game goulash as well as the homemade fuži with truffles .

The Zigante Truffle Festival is definitely worth a few hours. There are many exhibits with free samples to try before buying. There is also a spacious eating area inside and outside for you to enjoy the dishes.

We loved the truffle eggs, burger, and chips with a truffle mayonnaise! But there was also truffle pasta and truffle tiramisu – if you can believe that!

Speaking of Zigante, Livade is also home to the famous Zigante Restaurant. It’s not cheap, but the food is something out of this world, and the experience is worth the extra euro . And trust me, if you like fine dining and truffles, you want to save your holiday pennies and eat here.

You can read about what to eat in Istria here.

Pazin, often hailed as the “heart of Istria,” invites travelers to explore its rich history, palpable through its robust medieval castle that dominates the town’s skyline.

Pazin, the administrative heart of Istria, may be small, but it punches above its weight in historical allure and adventure. The town’s star attraction is the medieval Pazin Castle, which towers over a stunning abyss that has become a playground for thrill-seekers with its exhilarating zip line.

After you’ve gotten your adrenaline fix, take a moment to explore the castle’s museum to dip into the local history. Wander the town’s streets, and you’ll be rewarded with quaint eateries where Istrian specialties like fuži pasta offer a taste of the region’s culinary heritage.

Wrap up your visit with a leisurely hike along the trails encircling the town, offering both a glimpse of the serene Istrian landscape and a chance to work off that hearty meal.

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Serene Beaches And Natural Wonders In Istria Croatia

23. duga uvala, close to pula.

Explore the serene ambiance of Duga Uvala, a concealed gem nestled along the eastern coast of Istria that promises a tranquil retreat away from the typical tourist trails. Distinguished by its secluded bays, clear crystal-clear waters, and pebble beaches, this quiet area offers a respite for travelers looking to immerse themselves in a peaceful coastal escape.

Duga Uvala, while renowned for its natural beauty, also caters to those seeking a leisurely holiday with its wellness center, offering a range of rejuvenating treatments and activities. Easily reachable by car, it’s between Pula and Labin, making it a convenient destination to include in your Istrian itinerary, especially for those exploring the peninsula’s exquisite beaches and tranquil bays.

As you can see, Istrian towns have a Mediterranean climate but are unlike the rest of Croatia. We hope that you enjoy our highlights of Istria.

Places In Istria FAQs 

What are the must-visit attractions in istria.

Istria offers a wealth of attractions, including ancient Roman ruins such as the amphitheater in Pula, the picturesque town of Rovinj, the Brijuni Islands National Park , and the beautiful beaches along the coast.

When is the best time to visit Istria?

The best time to visit Istria is during the spring and early autumn when the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer tourists compared to the peak summer season.

What are some traditional Istrian dishes to try?

Istria is known for its delicious cuisine. Some traditional dishes to try include “istrska supa” (fish soup), “fuži” (pasta with truffles), and “maneštra” (a hearty vegetable stew).

Is it necessary to rent a car to explore Istria?

While renting a car provides flexibility, exploring Istria is unnecessary. Public transport options exist, and many towns and attractions are accessible on foot.

Are there any music festivals in Istria during the summer?

Yes, Istria hosts several music festivals during the summer months, including the Outlook Festival in Pula and the Dimensions Festival in Štinjan.

Can you visit Istria on a day trip from Zagreb?

While Istria can be visited on a day trip from Zagreb, spending at least a few days to fully experience the region’s attractions and culture is recommended.

What are some outdoor activities to do in Istria?

Istria offers various outdoor activities, such as hiking in the Učka Nature Park, cycling along the Parenzana trail, and water sports on the Adriatic coast.

What distinguishes Blue Istria from Green Istria?

Blue Istria is recognized for its bustling fishing villages, scenic islands, and beautiful beaches along the coast. In contrast, Green Istria is renowned for its medieval towns, extensive wineries, and forests rich with truffles, presenting a more serene and verdant experience.

Can you name the key places highlighted in Blue and Green Istria?

In Blue Istria, some of the must-visit places include Rovinj, Pula, Poreč, Lim Fjord, and Duga Uvala. On the other hand, Green Istria, Motovun, Oprtalj, and Grožnjan are highlighted as remarkable destinations worth exploring.

What types of experiences does Istria offer to travelers?

Istria welcomes travelers with diverse experiences such as meandering through charismatic Old Towns, admiring the blend of Roman and Venetian architecture, participating in boating adventures, enjoying beach activities, exploring cobbled pathways, engaging in truffle hunting, and indulging in local wine-tasting sessions.

What are some of the best towns to visit in Istria?

Rovinj, Pula, Motovun, Oprtalj, and Grožnjan are popular town choices in Istria.

Which towns in Istria are known for their historic centers?

Rovinj, Motovun, Oprtalj, and Grožnjan have picturesque historical centers with charming architecture and winding alleys.

What are some quick visit options in Istria?

If you have limited time, consider visiting Rovinj, Pula, and Grožnjan. These towns offer a taste of Istria’s beauty and cultural heritage.

What does Lonely Planet recommend for Istria?

Lonely Planet suggests exploring the towns of Motovun, Rovinj, and Grožnjan and enjoying the local cuisine and Istrian wine.

What is the central part of Istria called?

The central part of Istria is known as Green Istria, characterized by its rolling hills, vineyards, and picturesque hill towns.

Which is the largest city in Istria?

The largest city in Istria is Pula, known for its ancient Roman architecture and the impressive Pula Amphitheatre.

Is there an Italian influence in Istria?

Yes, Istria has historical ties to Italy, and you can still see the Italian influence in its architecture, cuisine, and culture.

Are there sandy beaches in Istria?

Yes, Istria has several sandy beaches, such as Bijeca Beach in Medulin and Laguna Beach in Poreč.

Which town in Istria is famous for its wine?

Istria is known for its Istrian wine, and Motovun is a popular town for wine enthusiasts, offering opportunities for wine tasting in its vineyards.

What are some of the coastal areas to visit in Istria?

Rovinj, Pula, and Medulin are coastal towns that provide beautiful vistas, marinas, and access to the Adriatic Sea.

Is there an Istrian hill town that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

No, there is no Istrian hill town that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. However, the Euphrasian Basilica in Poreč is a UNESCO-listed ancient monument.

What part of Istria used to be part of Italy?

Istria was part of Italy in the past, particularly during the period between World War II and the breakup of Yugoslavia.

What is a good day trip option from the Dalmatian Coast to Istria?

Pula, the largest city in Istria, is easily accessible from the Dalmatian Coast and makes for a great day trip option.

Now, tell me, do you feel ready to visit Istria? 

• What To Eat In Istria
• Best Beaches In Istria
• Labin And Rabac
• What To Do In Istria
• Central Istria

Comments (11)

Hidden jem…Grozjian!!

Hmm, I have been 2x, it’s okay… but don’t hate me, I don’t love it there.

Is there a good way to go from Zagreb to Buje in Istria? And where to stay in Buje? I understand it’s quite a small town. I’d like to visit this summer, it’s where my great-grandparents were from

It’s about 3 hours by car you can get a transfer with our company on the link below or by bus :D. That is so cool you are going back to your roots –<3 that. http://s27412.p99.sites.pressdns.com/croatia-transfers-croatia-airport-transfers/

(My) Jane and I will stay in Icici, Opatija 23/8-30/8 this year, and will drive around Istria as much as we can. Following week we will spend in Povljana, Pag – before we fly home again to Denmark. Will be a great vacation as usual …

yes, yes, sure sounds like it! You two should move here. Wink.

We (two retired teachers from Canada) are headed to Croatia in May and June, 2017. We will be staying in the Rijeka area for part of the time and exploring Istria before driving down the Dalmatian coast. We had planned trips to Groznjan, Rovinj, Pula and now you have added some new places to explore. Thank you!

Yay! You are so so very welcome. Enjoy. I have another post next week on Istria with even more ideas :D

Very proud Donkey ✅

I’ve been following you guys for some time now, but am only just actually finally getting around to planning a trip to Croatia this year. Thanks for all the tips!

You are so welcome!

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LIFESTYLE & TRAVEL BLOG IN VIENNA

4 days in istria itinerary (croatia) best activities guide.

Last Updated on May 21, 2023 by gregor

In this blog post, I’ll cover the perfect Istria itinerary to ensure you make the most of your short trip to the beautiful peninsula in Croatia.

Are you looking for a beautiful travel destination for your next vacation? Look no further than Istria, a stunning region located in Croatia. Istria is known for its beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and delicious cuisine. With only four days to explore Istria, having a well-planned itinerary is crucial.

All about Blue Istria and Green Istria – Visit Croatia

The terms “Blue Istria” and “Green Istria” are used to refer to two different regions in Istria, a peninsula in the Adriatic Sea that is shared by Croatia, Slovenia , and Italy .

Blue Istria, also known as Coastal Istria, is the western coastal area of Istria, which includes popular tourist destinations such as Pula, Rovinj, and Poreč. The name “Blue Istria” comes from the deep blue color of the Adriatic Sea that borders this region. It is characterized by its rugged coastline, crystal-clear waters, and numerous islands, coves, and beaches. Blue Istria is known for its rich cultural heritage, which includes ancient Roman ruins, medieval hilltop towns, and Venetian-style architecture.

Green Istria, on the other hand, is the central and eastern inland area of Istria, characterized by rolling hills, forests, vineyards, and olive groves. The name “Green Istria” comes from the lush greenery that covers much of this region. Green Istria is known for its picturesque hilltop towns, such as Motovun and Grožnjan, which are famous for their medieval architecture, narrow streets, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The region is also known for its gastronomy, which includes truffles, olive oil, and wines.

Map of Istria Croatia

Istria is easy to navigate, and the roads are good. You can get around by bus, although it isn’t super easy, so I recommend  renting a car   🚘 as it’s much easier and also quite cheap. It takes about 1 hour to drive from Novigrad in the north to  Pula  in the south.

Plan your Trip to Istria in Croatia?

• 🏨 Find the perfect accommodation on  Booking.com
• 🎡 Book the Best Guided Tour on  GetYourGuide
• 😍 Get more emotions from your trip with  Tripadvisor
• 🚘 Rent a car on  Rentalcars
• ✈️ Buy the cheapest flight tickets with  WayAway
• 🚂 🚌 ✈️ Best prices for Train, Buses, Cars, Ferries, and flights Omio

4 days in Istria itinerary – Best Travel Guide and Tips for the Istrian Peninsula

Day 1: exploring pula.

Pula is a great place to start your Istria adventure. This city is known for its beautiful Roman architecture, and the most iconic of these is the Arena. The Arena is a well-preserved Roman amphitheater that is over 2,000 years old. You can take a guided tour of the Arena, or you can explore it on your own.

Another must-see attraction in Pula is the Temple of Augustus. This temple was built during the Roman Empire and is dedicated to Augustus, the first Roman emperor. The temple is incredibly well-preserved, and it’s an excellent example of Roman architecture.

After exploring the Arena and the Temple of Augustus, you should head over to the Arch of Sergii. This arch was built in the first century BCE and is dedicated to the Sergii family. It’s a great spot to take some photos and learn more about the history of Pula.

You can find more information and  Book your Pula Arena Entry Ticket  here

Day 2: Exploring the Old Town of Rovinj

Rovinj is a picturesque coastal town that should definitely be on your itinerary. The town is known for its colorful buildings and winding streets. The most iconic attraction in Rovinj is St. Euphemia’s Basilica. This beautiful church is located at the top of a hill and offers stunning views of the town and the Adriatic Sea.

After visiting St. Euphemia’s Basilica, take a stroll down Grisia Street. This street is full of colorful buildings and local artists selling their work. You’ll find everything from paintings to handmade pottery.

Another must-see attraction in Rovinj is Balbi’s Arch. This arch is located at the entrance to the old town and dates back to the 17th century. It’s a great spot to take some photos and learn more about the history of Rovinj.

I always use GetYourGuide to book activities and attractions while traveling through Europe. You can search through over 25 Rovinj attractions on their website here 👇

Day 3: Exploring Motovun and Groznjan

Motovun and Groznjan are two beautiful hilltop towns that should definitely be on your itinerary. Motovun is known for its stunning views of the surrounding countryside, while Groznjan is known for its vibrant art scene.

When you arrive in Motovun , the first thing you should do is explore the town walls. These walls date back to the 14th century and offer incredible views of the surrounding countryside.

Top Tip: Truffles and Truffle Hunting Tour

After exploring the town walls, head over to the Motovun Forest. This forest is known for its truffles, and you can take a guided tour to learn more about truffle hunting .

When you’re ready to eat, head over to Konoba Mondo . This restaurant is located in the heart of Motovun and serves up delicious traditional Croatian cuisine.

After lunch, head over to Groznjan . This town is known for its vibrant art scene, and you’ll find galleries and studios throughout the town. Take some time to explore the galleries and see the work of local artists. You’ll also find some great views of the surrounding countryside from the town’s hilltop location.

Day 4: Exploring the Istrian Coast Poreč + Lim Fjord + Brijuni Islands Beach

On your final day in Istria, it’s time to explore the coast. Start your day in the town of Poreč , which is known for its beautiful beaches and historic architecture. The most iconic attraction in Poreč is the Euphrasian Basilica. This stunning basilica was built in the 6th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

After exploring the Euphrasian Basilica, take a stroll down Decumanus Street. This street is lined with shops and cafes, and it’s a great place to do some souvenir shopping.

Next, head over to Novigrad. This town is known for its beautiful beaches and charming old town. Take some time to explore the town’s narrow streets and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.

When it’s time to eat, head over to Damir & Ornella. This restaurant is located in the heart of Novigrad and serves up delicious seafood dishes.

After lunch, head over to the Lim Fjord. This stunning fjord is a great spot to take some photos and enjoy the beautiful scenery. You can also take a boat tour of the fjord if you have some extra time.

In the evening, head back to Pula to catch a sunset at Verudela Beach. This beautiful beach offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea, and it’s a great spot to relax and reflect on your four days in Istria.

I always use GetYourGuide to book activities and attractions while traveling through Europe. You can search through over  10  Lim Fjord attractions & activities on their website here 👇

Best Things to Do in Istria

Please read my related blog post:

20 BEST THINGS TO DO IN ISTRIA, CROATIA 2023 – TOP ATTRACTIONS

Tips for planning your 4 days in Istria travel

Planning a trip to Istria can be an exciting experience, but it can also be overwhelming. To make the most out of your 4 days in Istria, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Decide on your travel dates: The best time to visit Istria is during the summer months, between June and August when the weather is warm and sunny. However, keep in mind that this is also the busiest time of the year, so be sure to book your accommodation in advance.
• Choose your accommodation wisely: Istria has many accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Choose a location that is central to the attractions you plan to visit, and that fits within your budget. 🏨 Find the perfect accommodation on  Booking.com
• Plan your itinerary ahead of time: With only four days in Istria, it’s important to plan your itinerary ahead of time to make the most out of your trip. Consider which attractions and activities you want to prioritize, and plan your days accordingly.
• Rent a car: To truly explore all that Istria has to offer, it’s recommended that you rent a car. This will give you the freedom to travel at your own pace and visit off-the-beaten-path destinations. 🚘 Rent a car on  Rentalcars
• Pack appropriately: Istria can get hot and sunny during the summer months, so be sure to pack light and breathable clothing. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes.
• Try the local cuisine: Istria is known for its delicious cuisine, which includes fresh seafood, truffles, and Istrian ham. Be sure to try some of the local dishes during your visit.
• Be respectful of local customs: Istria is a welcoming and friendly region, but it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Learn a few basic Croatian phrases, and be aware of cultural differences.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to plan the perfect four-day itinerary in Istria and make the most out of your trip to this beautiful region.

Best Tours to book during the 4 days in Istria, based on GetYourGuide Website

There are many tours available to book in Istria on GetYourGuide , but here are some of the best ones to consider during your 4 days in Istria:

• Istria Hilltop Towns Tour: This tour takes you to the charming hilltop towns of Grožnjan, Oprtalj, and Motovun. You’ll explore their narrow streets and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. You’ll also have the opportunity to taste local wines and olive oils.
• Istrian Food and Wine Tour: This tour takes you to some of Istria’s best wineries and olive groves. You’ll learn about the production process and taste some of the region’s best wines and olive oils. You’ll also enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.
• Pula Roman Heritage Walking Tour: This tour takes you on a journey through Pula’s rich history, from its Roman past to its modern-day culture. You’ll visit iconic landmarks such as the Amphitheatre, the Arch of Sergii, and the Temple of Augustus.
• Brijuni National Park Boat Tour: This tour takes you on a boat ride to Brijuni National Park, a beautiful archipelago off the coast of Istria. You’ll explore the park’s lush vegetation and enjoy stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. You’ll also visit the park’s safari park and archaeological museum.
• Istrian Truffle Hunting Tour: This tour takes you on a truffle-hunting adventure in the Istrian countryside. You’ll learn about the history of truffle hunting and watch trained dogs search for these precious fungi. You’ll also taste truffle products and enjoy a traditional Istrian meal.

By booking one or more of these tours, you’ll be able to experience the best of Istria’s culture, history, and natural beauty. Make sure to book in advance to secure your spot, and enjoy your 4 days in Istria to the fullest.

I always use GetYourGuide to book activities and attractions while traveling through Europe. You can search through over 100 Istria attractions on their website here 👇

Istria is a beautiful region that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or simply relaxing on the beach, Istria has it all. With this four-day itinerary, you can explore some of the region’s most iconic attractions and enjoy its delicious cuisine. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Istria.

✅ Don’t forget to book insurance for the trip. It is easy to do online via Visitors Coverage .

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Top 16 things to do in Istria

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Get your bucket list ready. In this guide, we’ll show you the best things to do in Istria and how to experience them. Need help planning your trip? Check out our tips for visiting Istria — you’ll find the best restaurants, where to stay, how to get around and more!

What to expect in Istria

The Istrian peninsula, situated in the west of Croatia, actually belongs to three countries – Croatia, Slovenia and Italy.

This means there’s a brilliant blend of cultures, history and cuisine to be found in Istria.

In this guide, we’ll be focusing on the Croatian section, particularly Pula, Rovinj and Poreč. These three cities are the most popular places to stay in Istria, but there’s much more beyond their walls.

There are plenty of things to keep you busy – exploring nearby islands, scaling mountains, discovering historical sites or devouring the multicultural cuisine. Here, you don’t have to go to Italy to get a fantastic pizza. The seafood is also some of the best in Croatia!

Top tours in and around Istria

• Boat Tour to Brijuni Islands with Lunch and Drinks for €52
• Dolphin Watching Tour from Pula with Dinner and Drinks for €55
• Day Trip to Venice from Rovinj or Poreč starting from €74

Best 6 things to do in Pula

Home to one of the most famous landmarks in the whole of Croatia (Pula Arena), Pula is not just the largest but also the most visited destination in Istria.

Due to its history in shipbuilding, Pula has a more industrial feel than some of the other small and quaint towns in Istria. That’s not to say it’s not beautiful. It really is, but with an edge.

Here are 6 amazing things to do in Pula:

#1 Visit the famous Pula Arena

Pula Arena is the first thing that most people visit in Pula. It’s one of the most well-preserved Roman amphitheatres even though it was built in the 1st century AD.

It’s also the 6th largest amphitheatre in the world, holding around 23,000 spectators in Roman times. Nowadays, instead of vicious fights, the arena is a popular location for concerts, ballet, sports events and plenty more events.

The underground passages, once used by gladiators, now host regular exhibitions that showcase ancient olive production in Istria.

Walking around Pula Arena, you’ll be amazed by its breathtaking and imposing building structure.

How to visit Pula Arena

Pula Arena is open every day apart from the 1st of January and entrance costs €10.

To save queueing up to buy your ticket on the day, in the hot sun, you can buy your ticket beforehand .

Book your Pula Arena entrance ticket ahead of time for €10.

#2 Go dolphin watching on a boat from Pula

The Adriatic Sea around Pula is a great place to spot dolphins.

Due to the clean waters, bottlenose and striped dolphins flock to the area, making the chance of seeing them during the summer months pretty high.

Dolphins in the area have been under protection since 1995, helping their numbers to increase. There’s also an emphasis that boat tours should not disturb the dolphins or try to swim with them.

Which boat tour should you join?

All of this makes Pula a great place to embark on a dolphin boat trip.

This 3-hour dolphin-watching tour not only shows you the dolphins but also educates you on their biology, behaviour and environment.

It’s also no ordinary boat tour. Whilst the sun is setting, dinner is served on board alongside an open bar.

For only €55, you get the Dolphin Watching Tour with dinner and drinks . That’s your whole evening sorted!

#3 Explore Pula’s caves in a kayak

Whilst walking through Pula, it’s hard not to notice its dramatic and rugged coastline. Filled with caves, cliffs and hidden bays, it’s a shame not to explore it from a different perspective.

The best way to explore Pula’s cave system is with a kayak. Being in a kayak allows you to be nimble and pass through smaller holes in the cliff face to enter the caves.

Once you’re inside the caves, the adventure really begins. Most caves have no light, so you’ll rely on your headlamp to guide you through.

It’s like a magical new world inside the caves, with bats flying around and bioluminescent comb jellies in the water.

On this 3-hour kayaking tour for €44, you also get to go snorkelling. The waters around Pula have great visibility, so you won’t be disappointed!

This might be one of your favourite things you’ll get to do in Pula!

Not afraid of the dark?

If darkness doesn’t scare you, why not go kayaking at night?

During this 2-hour nocturnal kayaking tour for €69, you’ll be in a transparent bottom kayak. Discover the sleeping underwater world of the Adriatic Sea and keep an eye out for various types of marine life – fish, jellyfish, sea urchins and diverse corals.

Book your kayaking tours from Pula:

• 3-hour Cave and Snorkelling Kayak Tour for €43
• 2-hour Nocturnal Kayaking Tour for €69

#4 Join a walking tour of Pula

Pula is a city that’s teeming with history, particularly dating back to Roman times. That makes it the perfect place to join a walking tour and really learn its history.

We recommend this 1.5-hour private walking tour for €20. The tour takes you to all of the main sites in the city, such as Pula Arena, Kastel, Pula Cathedral, Temple of Augustus and more.

Although you don’t get to enter the sites on the walking tour, your guide will create vivid images in your mind of what life used to be like back then. It’s also a private tour so you can ask as many questions as you like!

Book and explore Pula on a private walking tour for €20

#5 Admire the Temple of Augustus

The Temple of Augustus is another impressive Roman structure in Pula.

Like Pula Arena, the Temple of Augustus is incredibly well-preserved. It’s almost like you’ve been transported back in time.

The temple was dedicated to the first Roman emperor, Augustus, and was believed to be built between 2 BC and 14 AD. Pretty old!

Once part of a trio of temples, the Temple of Augustus is the only one fully standing. The back part of the Temple of Diana is still visible, though.

The temple is best admired from the outside. In our opinion, the interior isn’t that exciting, but if you want to explore it, the entrance to see the complex from the is only €1.30.

#6 Look up at the Triumphal Arch of Sergius

Visiting the Triumphal Arch of Sergius will only take a few minutes of your time.

It is an incredible piece of architecture. The arch was built to commemorate three brothers from an important Roman family. It became the original naval gate of the early Roman colony.

TIP: Our compact Istrian Region Travel Guide shows you the best areas to stay, restaurants you don’t want to miss and many more tips for your visit to Istria!

Best 3 things to do in Rovinj

Once a traditional fishing village, Rovinj is now a fascinating mixture of tradition and a modern way of living.

Nowadays, it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations on the Istrian peninsula.

Here are the best things to do whilst in Rovinj:

#1 Join a free walking tour of Rovinj

Our favourite thing to do when we arrive in a new city is to join a walking tour. This way, you get to grips with the city faster, understand its history and get all of the best tips from a local.

Rovinj is no exception. It’s a great place to join a walking tour, particularly a free one.

Free Spirit runs a daily free walking tour at 18:00 during the summer months. Although technically called a free tour, it’s expected to tip what you think the tour was worth. The well-knowledged guides more than deserve it.

Which parts of Rovinj will you explore during the walking tour?

The Free Spirit walking tour covers all of the picturesque Old Town in Rovinj, including the touristy must-see sites and the hidden gems known only to locals.

Some highlights of the tour include Matteotti Square, Great Pier, Savicentska Street and plenty more.

The tours are done only in English and your tour can be found in front of the Boy with a Fish statue at Maršal Ti to Square . Look out for the orange umbrella!

#2 Admire the stunning Lim Fjord 

About 20 minutes north of Rovinj, you’ll find Lim Fjord . A dynamic landscape with the fjord as the centrepiece of the area.

Lim Fjord is part of the 35 km-long Lim Valley that stretches almost to the centre of Istria.

The fjord, which is actually a submerged karst canyon, was created when the sea penetrated the valley, completely changing the landscape.

Now the fjord is 30 metres deep, with imposing mountains rising up to 100 metres on both sides.

Lim Fjord is a popular place to take a bike trip, go hiking or try some delicious delicacies. The underwater sources of sweet water create a perfect environment for fish and oysters.

Join a tour of Lim Fjord

What better way to explore the fjord than cruising along the water admiring the towering cliffs on either side? You’ll also get chances to swim, look for dolphins and visit a fish farm.

Book the unforgettable boat tour of Lim Fjord for €65

#3 Search for dolphins on a sunset cruise

It’s not just Pula where there’s a chance to catch a glimpse of dolphins leaping above the waves. You can also embark on a sunset cruise from Rovinj, where you’ll also get to go swimming and enjoy unlimited drinks onboard.

The boat tour is also cheaper than if you do it in Pula, costing only €35. So if you’re visiting both places, maybe save it until you’re in Rovinj.

Don’t miss the chance to see dolphins on this sunset boat tour from Rovinj for €35

Best 2 things to do in Poreč

This small coastal town is most famous for Euphrasius Basilica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Poreč’s Old Town, surrounded by ancient city walls, is the perfect place to spend a few days.

Here are the best things to do whilst in Poreč:

#1 Visit the UNESCO site of Euphrasian Basilica

The Euphrasian Basilica is the star of Poreč. Made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, the early-Christian compound is the only complete landmark in the world preserved from that period.

This incredible complex includes an atrium, baptistery, bishop’s palace, mosaics and remains of sacral buildings dating from the 3rd and 4th centuries.

The preservation of the mosaics is somewhat magnificent. As a result, we can still understand the writings explaining the construction and renovation of the complex.

How to visit the Euphrasian Basilica 

Visiting is possible every day except on Sundays and Catholic holidays. Tickets for the Euphrasian Basilica cost €6.50.

#2 Imagine what the Temple of Neptune used to be like

Something that won’t take up much of your time but is still worth a visit is the Temple of Neptune .

Dedicated to the God of the sea, Neptune, the temple was erected in the 1st century. Unlike the Euphrasian Basilica, this historical site wasn’t preserved well. Only parts of the foundation and walls remain.

7 more incredible things to do in Istria

There’s much more to Istria than just Pula, Rovinj and Poreč. Here are 7 more incredible things that you can do throughout the region:

#1 Discover the hill villages – Groznjan, Motovun, Buzet

A lot of Istria’s big cities are on the coast, meaning people often miss some hidden gems in the hills. We’re talking about Groznjan, Motovun, and Buzet.

Groznjan is a hub for all things art and culture. As soon as the sun starts to shine, signifying the start of the summer months, the town comes alive.

Music academies are open to young people. Artistic, dance, drama and even peace activism workshops start running.

The town almost feels like a set from a movie. Everyone is smiling and the streets are filled with dancers and musicians.

Named one of the prettiest hilltop towns in Istria, Motovun is the perfect place to wander around, enjoy some food and absorb the atmosphere.

With a population of just over 900 people, it’s pretty small but offers some incredible views of the surrounding landscape due to being 277 metres above sea level.

Sitting on a 151m tall hill, Buzet is famous for its stunning Venetian architecture and truffles. There’s not too much going on in this sleepy town, but it is a great place to try truffles.

The best time to visit for this is at the beginning of September when the Virgin Mary’s birthday is celebrated. At this time, the locals prepare a giant omelette filled with truffles in the town square.

#2 Escape to nature and visit Kamenjak Cape

Best visited from Pula, Kamenjak Cape is a great way to spend the day. With approximately 30 km of rugged coast, the park is ideal for swimming, sunbathing and just relaxing.

Up for a bit more adventure? The coastline boasts uninhabited islets, cliffs to jump off of, hidden caves and beautiful beaches. It sounds a bit like paradise!

That’s not all that you can do there. Kamenjak Cape has become somewhat famous due to the Safari Bar inside.

The story goes that 20 years ago, a man bought some land to escape civilisation. Eventually, friends began to visit him and slowly one of the best beach bars developed.

The best way to describe Safari Bar is it’s an adult playground. There are big slides throughout the place, swings and wheels to play on.

Here the walls and ceilings are made of live plants and bamboo canes, with tables and benches made from logs and stones. It’s rustic, exciting and unique!

The food doesn’t disappoint either. You can find a selection of sandwiches, seafood and meat dishes.

How to visit Kamenjak Cape

The easiest way to visit Kamenjak is by car. The drive takes around 30 minutes, but you will have to pay for entrance €10.50.

If you’re a pedestrian, then the entrance is free.

For those without a car, you can get the bus to Prematura and then walk from there. However, the walk from Prematura is a few kilometres, so it isn’t the easiest.

#3 Spend the day exploring the Brijuni islands

On the west coast of the Istrian Peninsula, you will find 14 islands that makeup Brijuni National Park . Two of them are large islands, ones that you can visit, and the other 12 are small islands and islets.

The islands actually used to be the summer residence of Marshal Tito, the Yugoslavian President, until he died in 1980.

Whilst he owned the island, he introduced a number of non-native animals, such as elephants, zebras and antelope.

You can still find some of these animals in the safari park on Veliki Brijun. Other highlights on the two main islands include the remains of a 2nd-century Byzantine fortress, a Roman villa and an interesting exhibit on the ex-Yugoslavian President.

How to visit the Brijuni Islands

The Brijuni Islands are found closest to Pula, but you’ll still need to travel to the town of Fazana if you want to take the public boat there.

You can find the latest boat timetable here and the ride takes around 15 minutes. Tickets cost €33, there and back.

Alternatively, you could make the boat experience more enjoyable and join this boat tour with lunch and an open bar .

The boat tour to the Brijuni Islands costs €52. You’ll also get a professional guide to tell you about the islands too.

#4 Explore Istria’s gorgeous beaches

Croatia is renowned for its stunning, crystal clear beaches and Istria is not short of these paradises either.

Boasting almost 540 km of coastline there are plenty of hidden coves, intimate bays and sprawling beaches to be found in Istria.

Here are some of our favourite beaches for you to check out:

• Hawaii Beach – the name says it all really! Hawaii Beach really is a slice of serenity in Pula. The white pebbles somehow make the sea even bluer, making it a great place to go snorkelling due to the ideal visibility.
• Zambratija – if you’re eager to find a sandy beach, you’re in luck. In the town of Umag, you can find the small sandy beach that is Zambratija. Surprisingly not too many people visit this beach, so it’s nice and relaxing. 
• Valbandon Beach – is a great spot for those with kids because it’s perfect for swimming. Valbandon Beach has plenty of amenities such as sunbeds, restaurants and bars nearby. The snow-white sandbank is also the perfect place for sunbathing.
• Kamenjak Cape – cliff jumps, hidden caves and beautiful beaches, it’s an adventure paradise. We dedicated a separate section to this beach .

#5 Rent a boat in Istria

Once you witness the refreshing turquoise water in Istria, many of us instantly start daydreaming about exploring the waters by boat.

If that’s what’s on your mind, we have great news for you. You can rent a boat from most places in Istria. Renting a boat for the day gives you the ultimate freedom to escape the other tourists and go wherever you want.

Depending on what you are looking for, you can rent a basic motorboat, but also one that is equipped with all kinds of watersports gear like paddleboards, rubber rings and snorkelling equipment.

How to rent a boat

Whatever town you are in, walking around the harbour is most likely the best way to find a boat rental. Talk to people with boats or head to a tourist information office to find some options.

You can find boat deals online, but this means that you can’t haggle on the price.

Online boat rental prices start at around €150 for a max of seven people for the day.

With or without a driver?

If you’re looking to rent a boat completely by yourself, at least one person on the boat will need a nautical licence. Because not many of us have a boat license, most boat rentals conveniently come with a driver.

Renting a boat with a driver also allows you to just sit back and relax (and enjoy a cold beer or glass of wine while taking in the scenery.

#6 Take a day trip to Venice 

The Istrian Region has a heavy Venetian influence, but if this isn’t enough to satisfy your longing for Italy, why not take a day trip there?

Venice is an iconic Italian city famous throughout the world, known for its romantic canals, elegant gondolas and rich history.

As you drift along the waterways (a must-do in Venice), you’ll be treated to views of Venice’s stunning architecture and a number of its 200 churches.

How to visit Venice

If reading that has made you want to visit Venice, then it couldn’t be easier.

You can arrange the ferries yourself, but this actually works out more expensive than joining a tour. Tickets for the ferry can cost around €70 each way.

Tours to Venice depart from both Rovinj and Poreč , costing €69 and €64 respectively.

The speedboat crossing takes around 3 hours from both, giving you plenty of time to explore Venice and take in its stunning sights. The boats also tend to leave early in the morning too.

Book your trip to Venice here:

• Day Trip to Venice from Rovinj for €69
• Day Trip to Venice from Poreč for €64

#7 Spend the afternoon in Vrsar

Located just 10 km south of Poreč, Vrsar is a gem that should be visited.

Still a small fishing town, it sits on a 54 m hill overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Here, you’ll get to witness some incredible views of the surrounding islets and beautiful sunsets.

Spend a few hours here, exploring the marina, seafront promenade and winding streets. Set within old stone houses, you can also find some great restaurants and cafes to spend the afternoon in.

Rounding it up

Now you’ve picked the best things to do in Istria, it’s time to start ticking off that bucket list. Not sure how to plan your trip? Our Istria guide is here to help! You’ll find out how long to stay in Istria, where to eat, how to get around and more. Happy planning! 

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Kate is a writer, (ex)Management Consultant and avid traveller. She recently returned from a 2-year career break exploring the world and decided corporate life wasn’t for her. She’ll soon be testing life as a digital nomad. She’s visited over 40 countries and fell in love with Latin America in particular. Her travelling has inspired a passion for yoga, salsa, hiking and Spanish.

Based in Bali, Maarten’s passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you’ll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.

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Istria Croatia

The most visited region in Croatia, Istria is a heart-shaped peninsula located in the northern Adriatic.

Istria is rolling hills, medieval hilltop towns , historical coastal towns, rocky coast, breathtaking views, tasty food , excellent local wines, and olive groves. Many visitors compared it with Tuscany, and sometimes call it “Tuscany with colors”.

The region is conveniently located, and within five hours drive from many European cities, like Munich, Vienna, Ljubljana, Milano, Budapest, etc. Location is one of the reasons why so many tourist flock to this Croatian region.

Istria is bilingual and all the road signs and town names are in Croatian and Italian. Most people are fluent in both languages. Many also speak at least another foreign language; English and/ or German, being the most commonly spoken.

Compared with other Croatian regions, Istria feels more cosmopolitan.

Table of Contents

No matter what place in Istria you choose as your home base, you’ll be able to visit all top sights within an hour drive. Due to its shape, no matter where you are, other places are never more than 80 km away.

Location: Istria map

Istria destination guides

Reasons to visit Istria Croatia

1 | Sun & Sea

Istria has very rich history, and lots of historical and natural sites, interesting events, and awesome cycling trails, but let’s be frank here – majority of people visit Istria for its beaches, sun and sea.

Yes, peeps, if you like an idea of yourself laying on a beach, a glass of cold (put your own drink) in hand, and dipping in the Adriatic whenever you feel, Istria is the place to go.

2 | Food & Wine

If you enjoy good food based on fresh, homegrown, and seasonal ingredients, washed down with a premium local wines, Istria is a right place to visit.

We’ll talk more in-depth about food, wine and restaurants in Istria, because it’s one of region’s main strengths.

Istria abounds in natural beauties, and lovely landscapes: from Ucka and Cicarija mountains, hills, meadows, forests, caves, caverns, and blue Adriatic Sea … all those natural sights are a reason enough to visit Istria.

Recommended reading:  Baredine Cave

4 | History

Istria is rich in history, and there are many historical sites worth visiting: Complex of Euphrasian Badilica in Porec, UNESCO world heritage site, Pula Colliseum, remains of Roman villas, many churches with amazing frescoes, well-preserved medieval towns, to name just few.

5 | Activities

Istrian tourism dates back to the times of Austria-Hungarian empire when first hotels, as we know them today, were built in coastal towns.

All this intro to say that Istrians know what visitors want, what kind of activities they enjoy, and they are here to provide it (and make money along the way).

There are so many things to do in Istria, that it will take ages to partake in all of them.

Recommended reading:

• Istralandia
• Dinosaur Park

Best time to visit Istria Croatia

Best time to visit Istria  is June and September. The weather is still nice, sea is still warm, there are way less people around, and the prices are lower.

Food and restaurants in Istria

Food here is amazing. Istria is the best region in Croatia when it comes to food and wine. Black and white truffles, cured meats, goat cheese, olive oil, home made pasta, steaks, … you name it, Istria has it.

Istria also has the best choice of restaurants. Unlike the rest of Croatia, many restaurants in Istria are open year around (except in January when they close for yearly vacation). Many restaurants close on Tuesday (October to May).

In Istria you can expect three kinds of restaurants: tavern-style restaurants serving traditional Istrian food like bean soup, homemade pasta, fuzi and pljukanci with various sauces, and steaks; fish restaurants serving lots of yummy and fresh sea food; and touristy restaurants serving just about anything (pizza, pasta, grilled meat and fish, risotto, … ).

In a good Istrian restaurant you can expect to pay around 250 kn per person for a 3-course meal with drinks. Pastas and risottos are around 50 Kn a portion, steaks around 140 Kn, fish is usually charged per weight (300-400 kn per kilo).

If you travel on budget, you can still eat cheap in Istria. Like in the rest of Croatia, you can find cheap snacks in bakeries. Lunch size savory and sweet pastries cost between 0,5 to 2€. Popular chain of bakeries you’ll find everywhere in Istria (and Croatia) is Mlinar.

Pizzas are good in Istria. Make sure to choose a pizzeria that bakes their pies in a wood-burning oven. You’ll get an excellent pizza for 6€. It’s so big that you’ll hardly be able to finish it alone.

Fine dining experience is expensive everywhere, but still in Istria you’ll find a great value for your money. For instance, a 7-course meal in the restaurant Marina in Novigrad will cost you 50€.

Wine in restaurants can be really pricey if you order bottled wine. A bottle of premium local wine in a restaurant cost 150 Kn and more. However, all restaurants serve also a table wine, called also a house wine. In Istria, it’s usually white wine Malvazija Istarska , or red wine Merlot. They cost 60 kn a liter, and they are really good.

Accommodation in Istria

Istria Croatia offers a good choice of accommodation : from campsites, to 5-star luxury hotels. There is something for everybody’s taste and budget. Prices vary according to the season, type of accommodation, location, and level of comfort.

High season is in July and August when the prices are at the highest. You can expect to pay a 40 € per day for two persons and a pitch with electricity in a campsite; studio apartment rental for two will set you back 70 € a day, in a 2-star hotel for a double room with breakfast you’ll pay 100 €, up to 500 € for a double room with breakfast in a 5-star hotel.

However, if you travel off-season (until mid June and after mid September), you can really get a bargain on your accommodation.

Accommodation is the most expensive in Rovinj, followed by Porec, while Novigrad, Vrsar , Rabac and Pula offer cheaper accommodation (for the same level of comfort).

Transportation in Istria

Transportation in Istria is a bit tricky. Intercity buses exist and they are not expensive. However they are not so frequent and they are slow. Train in Istria is almost nonexistent. Coastal towns, beside Pula, are not connected by the train at all. And Istria as a whole is not connected by train with the rest of Croatia. However, there are some trains scheduled to go from Pazin to Zagreb, but bear in mind that from Lupoglav train station to Rijeka there is no train, but bus connection. Don’t use trains to get in and around Istria, because it is very inconvenient. Taxis are expensive in Istria and you should avoid using them. The best way to travel to and around Istria is by car. Many hotel companies also offer free transfers to and from the airports. Ask directly before booking.

Beaches in Istria

Although majority of visitors to Istria visit this region for sun and sea, beaches are not Istria’s strongest point. The coast is rocky, but also beautiful, and well-preserved. You won’t find lots of construction right at the coastline; you’ll instead find lots of space for everybody. Thick pine forest, and sometimes olive trees, grow all the way to the sealine, creating lots of shadow.

Within tourist resorts, like Zelena Laguna or Lanterna, in Porec, or Lone Bay in Rovinj, you’ll find man-made pebble beaches. The best beaches in Istria are on the east coast of Istria, particularly in Rabac. Here rocky coast interchange with wonderful pebble beaches.

Our favorite beaches in Istria are Brsec, and Ravni at the east coast; beaches at Premantura in the south, and Delfin beach in Porec.

Things to see and do in Istria

Istria is a wonderful region not only to visit but to live in. You can read my musings on things I love about living in Istria . Istria is rich in history and natural beauty. It’s lush green a year around. It offers yummy food, great wines, dreamy hilltop towns, cycling trails. It feels very cosmopolitan, especially compared with the rest of Croatia.

Top sights include: Amphitheater in Pula, Euphrasian Basilica in Porec, Rovinj’ s Old Town, Brijuni National Park, and the hilltop towns of Motovun and Groznjan.

More posts on things to do in Istria you can find below.

Popular destinations in Istria Croatia

Towns popular among tourists are Porec, Rovinj, Pula, Vrsar, Umag, Rabac and Motovun. Here, you will find lots of accommodation choices, activities, bars, restaurants and events catering to tourists.

• Umag is the town closest to Slovenian border and the first one to reach if you are coming from Italy. Its hinterland has a lot to offer to its visitors. The best restaurants serving comfort food are located in the vicinity of Umag. Umag itself is somehow less attractive than other coastal towns in Istria.
• Novigrad is a small fishing village half way between Umag and Porec. Novigrad is famous for its seafood restaurants. This small place features some of the best seafood restaurants in Istria.
• Porec is the most popular tourist hotspot in Istria. Porec basilica is listed as UNESCO’s World Heritage Site . The old town is a showcase of Venetian architecture. Visitors can enjoy numerous bars and restaurants at seaside promenade.
• Vrsar is located between Porec and Rovinj. Its charming old town is perched on the hill overlooking the archipelago of 18 islets.
• Rovinj is the nicest of all towns in Istria. Located at the peninsula, its colorful houses are rising out of the sea. The old town is full of lively bars and art galleries.
• Pula is the biggest town in Istria. Although, Pula is industrial, it has some of the best beaches in Istria. The most popular attraction in Pula is roman amphitheater.
• Rabac is a small tourist resort on the east coast of Istria. Rabac has beautiful pebble beaches.
• Motovun is the most popular town in inland Istria. It is located on the hilltop overlooking Mirna river and valley.

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The Complete Istria Travel Guide (Top Towns, Best Food & Hotels)

An Istria Travel Guide

A country heavily influenced by its past landlords, the Romans and Venetians, Istria is like the cleaner, calmer version of Italy. The roads are a dream to navigate, even in the middle of August, as Istria has just the right amount of tourists appreciating its beauty. Equally, the weather too is the perfect combination of not too hot and not too cold which is ideal for both Istria’s beautiful beaches and day trips to its historic towns.

Maybe down to the fact that Istria doesn’t receive hoards of tourists every year, the locals still have a kindness about them which is sometimes hard to find in busier neighbouring countries – especially at peak season. They are desperate to share the love of their country with you and eager to let you try their truffles or local wine – you will find their enthusiasm so heartwarming. Also, English is taught in schools so most of the time it’s easy to get by and the Istrian’s don’t seem affronted that they need to use it. And when you go the extra mile to learn a few phrases in Croatian they can’t be more touched!

Read our Istria travel guide to discover all the best places in Istria, which towns to visit and what to see… 

The Top 7 Best Towns In Istria, Croatia

Whilst the rest of the world is visiting Dubrovnic further south in Croatia, those in the know stick with the less touristy medieval fortress, Rovinj. A little like Venice over the Adriatic Sea, Rovinj began as an island, but in time the channel was filled joining it to the mainland. Rovinj will probably be the busiest place you will encounter in Istria but it’s easy to see why! It is a must-see on our guide to Istria if only to imagine what Venice would be like if it was polished. Gleaming white cobblestones in thin little streets eventually lead you up to the top for the best views of tiny people and turquoise waters. And if your legs will allow it, the extra climb of 192 steps up the most rickety staircase in the Church of St Euphemia will deposit you on a slightly less rickety platform for even better views of Istria and tiny people.

You’ll need to regain your confidence when you’re back on terra firma so wind back down through Rovinj and grab a glass of something stiff at one of the many restaurants and bars, or mosey around several of the seemingly hundreds of art galleries. Beautiful gift shops and boutiques also make Rovinj the perfect town for a spot of shopping too.

Whilst Porec might be one of the main tourist resort areas for big hotels it needn’t put you off. This sweet little town on the Adriatic has loads going for it! Through the day you can take off on a boat trip to see whales and dolphins or even hire some jet ski’s, Porec is one of the main area’s to take water-related day trips – even a trip to Venice if you so require.

However, inside the narrow streets of Porec you will want to visit the UNESCO listed Euphrasian Basilica for its amazing mosaics and stunning Byzantine architecture. Or the remains of two Roman temples to Mars and Neptune – not that inspiring in themselves, but definitely a glimpse at what Porec would’ve been like under Roman rule. Interestingly, the gridlike structure of Porec’s streets is a nod to the Romans too.

Pre-Roman’s however, the Venetians owned Porec and the Venetian-style Gothic architecture can be admired at the Zuccato Palace and several other places as you wander around. Porec comes to life on an evening and has a reputation as a bit of a party town but honestly, it still has a relaxed vibe whilst people eat their huge pizza’s and drink their cheap local wine from restaurant terraces and pavement tables. Porec has a happy vibe and a lovely holiday feel.

If you make the trip over to Opatija in the top right corner of the Istrian triangle, you may as well have stepped into another country! When the rich and royals of western Europe were having a good old shindig in St Tropez, the Russian Oligarchs and eastern European gangsters were wining and dining their dolly-birds in the cliffside cafeterias of Opatija. The architecture becomes Austro-Hungarian, very grand and luxurious. Neatly painted stucco in soft pastel shades offset the white decorative mouldings at the edges. Preened gardens and box hedging, a jolly speaker-system attached to lamp-posts playing summer vibe songs, confectionary shops selling the prettiest Austrian pralines and bathers swimming in the lido’s: all reminiscent of a 1950’s seaside scene. Designer stores line the high street but this is no artificial paradise – the locals are present and cheery, probably because the rest of the world hasn’t discovered their little gem of a town. Yes, there are yachts in the harbour but it’s understated wealth and in no way pretentious.

Take a stroll along the Lungomare (seafront promenade) then grab a strong Austrian coffee at the famous Cafe Wagner for the ultimate people-watching opportunity. Sample another type of Istrian truffle, this time made with Austrian chocolate or grab a bit of shade in one of the towns shaded manicured gardens. Opatija was built with luxury in mind over 100 years ago but it still oozes it today and is quite a contrast to the more natural and rustic charms of the rest of Istria – a definite worthy day trip if you have hired a car in Istria.

Motovun, one of Istria’s hilltop towns, is great for foodies and has strong connections to the truffle trade of Istria. It turns up in any good guide to Istria and is one of the best towns to visit if you love your food! Hang off the walls (safely of course) and stretch your neck to see the forests below – forests of pigs searching for black and white truffles that seem to have put Istria on the (foodie) map. You can sample and buy their truffled delights in some of the little stores and gift shops or taste these local delicacies with your meal. There are a few nicely placed bars with tables on the town walls for the best view of the sunset – the perfect trip out for an hour or two in the early evening.

5. Groznjan

The little town of Groznjan is great for a wander too – not only are the house fronts made to look their best with hanging baskets and vines of Bougainvillea, but the insides of stores are a shoppers dream – tiny little stone rooms filled to the brim with local artists pieces and unique Istrian gifts – like the olive oil soaps, wrapped so beautifully in designer packaging that even your smelliest friend wouldn’t take offense at a souvenir! There are many other little hilltop towns in Istria but Motovun and Groznjan are our favourite and well worth an afternoon out, exploring and debating the merits of these neighbourhoods in the clouds.

With absolutely no intention of visiting the place, we stumbled across Fazana in desperate need of some food after a long day exploring some Istrian gems. It turned out to be the holiday destination we would rebook again and again! I don’t know if it was the euphoria of the giant slice of Pizza I shoved in my face or simply the beautiful outlook over the harbour to the islands of Brijuni, but we fell in love with Fazana instantly.

The Brijuni National Park just across the water brings in day-trippers to hire and charter boats, but once the rush is gone around early evening, the orange glow of the sun bathes one of the prettiest little fishing villages in all of Istria in the most glorious hues.

There’s not a lot to do here, except maybe meander the little market and tiny town, or sunbathe on the beach but we loved the feel of the place. There’s always action and enterprise going on in the working harbour giving Fazana a very local feel. But equally, the locals have recognized their beautiful town for what it is and there are enough restaurants and bars to accommodate a relaxed holidaymaker and their thirsty palate.

This place is so wonderful it deserved a blog post of it’s own, check it out here…

Literally a 5 minute drive from Fazana, and the main working town of Istria, Pula is as urban as it gets in this part of Croatia. It’s home to more than half of Istria’s population and also the area’s main airport. With that, of course, comes industry and high-rise housing, but if you want to see one of Istria’s gem’s and top tourist attractions then you must come to Pula to see the amphitheatre.

The most in-tact remaining Roman amphitheatre in the world, the Pula Arena is a sight to behold and there’s no way we’re leaving it off this Istria travel guide. It still has it’s four side towers preserved and dates back to AD81, finished by Emperor Titus who built Rome’s Colosseum too. Istria’s colosseum is used throughout the summer as a venue for concerts – in fact, we flew over the Adriatic recently and the bright lights of this concert venue could be seen from way up there, so make sure you check out their gig guide for when you’re visiting, it would make the best venue!

An Istria Travel Guide – What And Where To Eat

Istria stretches out like a green carpet when you stand on the walls of one of their hilltop towns – field after field of arable farms and vineyards make it easy to understand why food is such a big deal to the Istrians. It’s fair to say that their pride brings only the best and freshest ingredients to your plate and when you sit down to eat you get a sense of what it was like 50 years ago everywhere else in Europe when pretty much everything was organic and it was picked when it was good and ready.

Pizza is everywhere, and it’s good! We particularly like the harbour-front in Fazana which has a number of pizzerias with the best dinner time view. Or alternatively, you could visit Porec and eat your whole weeks’ meal in one with their seemingly famous ginormous pizza. There are a few restaurants that get the best reviews on trip advisor, but just wander around and you will see for yourself how big they are and how good they look!

If you visit Opatija for the day, you must eat at Submarine Burger in the neighbouring fishing village of Volosko – grab yourself a seat with a harbour view and order their mini triple burger plate.

Along the coast, you’re not short of fish and seafood restaurants with typical Croatian dishes like Skampi Buzzara (prawns in a tomato sauce) or Brodetto (a fisherman’s stew). Inland, you’re more likely to see more meat dishes on the menu, like Peka (or Ispod Cripnje) which is tender slow-cooked lamb or veal made in an earthenware pot, or platefuls of the local Istrian smoked ham. Try and get a booking at Konoba Mondo in Motuvun.

Istria is well famous for its truffles and thankfully they’re in good supply so it’s not too expensive to buy and you receive generous helpings when you choose a truffle dish – honestly, if you are in Istria you mustn’t miss out on the truffles! If you’re going for breakfast, start the day right and opt for the truffled scrambled eggs.

Konoba’s, or Gostionica’s, are little family ran restaurants where you can guarantee the food will be special and the setting a little more intimate. Often they use vegetables from their own gardens and wine from their own vineyards so the prices are so reasonable, if not surprisingly cheap. Basically, you can’t go wrong eating out in Istria.

An Istria Travel Guide – Where To Stay In Istria

Where better to position yourself for a few days exploring in Istria than right in the middle of the Istrian triangular peninsula. Hotel Resort Cize is the perfect distance from all of the places you must see and in a beautiful location in the Istrian hills. The roads in Istria are excellent and nowhere is too hard to get to so this is the ideal base.

Finding modern hotels in Istria can be difficult yet Resort Cize is contemporary and immaculate. The rooms are simple but well equipped, and the bathrooms have a stylish design to them. The room which overlooks the pool has a balcony that receives the sun from late afternoon and is the best place to see the sunset over the hills. Or if you’re travelling with a family they also have a 4 and 5 person apartment, with its own little pool. Plus the option to rent bikes too.

What sets this small family ran hotel apart, however, is the level of service you will receive. Nothing is too much trouble and they are the perfect balance of friendly yet professional. You must eat here for dinner at least once in your stay because the food is all locally grown, exceptional value and can be tailored to however you prefer it. I’m going to put it out there and say this was possibly the nicest hotel we have ever stayed in, maybe not in terms of interior design but certainly in terms of comfort and home from home. I cannot recommend Resort Cize highly enough!

Alternatively, the coastal town Fazana has a lovely relaxed vibe to it and the Apartments Villa Nina is in perfect walking distance from the town and beaches and comes with breakfast too. Fazana is only a stones throw from Pula for the airport and if you were thinking of kicking back for a few days and not hiring a car then Fazana would be the perfect little town to get a bit of down-time.

So there you have it, our Istria travel guide and recommendations to getting the most out of your trip to Istria. Maybe you have come across some of your own little gems in Istria, if so – do let us know, we’d love to try them on our next visit. And any questions, send us a message below – we’ll do our best to help!

Istria has been our first taste of Croatia and we liked it very much, but I am super interested to know how it compares the rest of the country: has the old Italian influence made it a unique little peninsula or has the rest of Croatia got a similar vibe? I would certainly welcome any comments or feedback on this query. Feel free to leave me some input below and for more posts on Istria to follow, make sure you sign up to my newsletter. Thanks for reading!

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13 Comments Add yours

Sounds great! Do you know if it’s at all possible to find a quiet beach village in this region? I’ve almost booked my holiday in a small village in Hvar but am wondering if there’s also something like that in Istria since it’s closer to my country, Austria so easier to travel to!

We really love Fazana and would go back in a heartbeat. It is a resort but we went with our family 3 summers ago and the beaches are no way crowded and there is just the right amount of people around at the restaurants in an evening. I wrote about Fazana if you wanted to read that post too. We stayed on the north side of the village and I’d definitely say it’s a bit quieter that side as it’s more villas than hotels but the south side where the resorts are aren’t too busy either. And when I say resorts I mean small hotels. Hope that helps.

Also, depending on your budget, I also link to a lovely villa in my Fazana post, great location, beautiful villa, lovely owners who live nearby and were so hospitable and helpful.

• Pingback: Rovinj to Pula, Croatia: A Quick Istria Itinerary | Wander-Lush

Very nice post, Alex. Istria looks stunning and not somewhere I’ve heard of before. Croatia is not somewhere I have visited yet, but it’s on my to do list sometime soon and this place looks like a perfect place to stop. Even better that it sounds like not many tourists visit there.

Its getting harder to find quiet spots these days. Hopefully the cruise ships won’t start docking there. It’s so lovely. Thanks for your input x

you went to Opatija too? excellent:) the southern coast (Dalmatia) feels more like Greece, whilst the capital Zagreb is more like Budapest or Vienna:)

Yes. Opatija was definitely more Austro-Hungarian, quite different to the rest of Istria. I loved it and am half way through writing a post about it. Definitely a highlight. The thing that puts me off the Dalmatian coast is how popular it has gotten, we definitely prefer the more off the beaten path places.

Sounds amazing! I’ve heard such amazing things about Croatia. If we went, I would much prefer the ‘off the beaten track’ gems idea. I’m making a note of that hotel!

When I first read your title, I thought it said “More hidden gems than Crystal Meth!” That certainly got my interest, but it was not to be. This place looks amazing and I’ve never heard of it. We did a sailing thing around the islands in Croatia – not on my own yacht, it doesn’t say understated wealth – but on cramped passenger ferries with no formal timetables.

Your descriptions of Istria make it sound delightful. Plus, I’m a huge fan of truffle so count me in. And non-smelly drainage – what’s not to love.

Those islands look amazing – I absolutely totally am not addicted to Made In Chelsea but they were on there this summer and looked stunning. I’m eager to find out if the rest of Croatia is as gorgeous as Istria but part of me doesn’t want to risk it. Sorry there was no meth, I’ll see what I can do for next time. ?

Looks so beautiful, Alex. I was just wondering – did you guys drive into Croatia by car? Were there any formalities at the border, anything special to consider? I’m really thinking we should try and visit Croatia soon, it’s so beautiful!

Yes we did. Actually, on our way in there was a huge queue so we swerved and took a side road which was literally the size of one car and took us parallel to the border crossing straight into Croatia with not even a hint that we’d crossed into another country. But on our way out of Croatia we took a different road and there were no alternative options so we just had to sit in traffic for ten minutes. They quickly checked passports but that was it.

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Art & Culture Travel Blog

Istria travel guide & the best places to visit in istria.

• Tea Gudek Šnajdar

Whenever someone is asking me about my favourite region of Croatia, my immediate answer is – Istria. With its numerous cute little towns, interesting history, delicious food and many exciting things to do, it’s one of the best places to visit in Croatia. I’m spending at least a week each summer there for the last ten years, so here is my travel guide with things to do and the best places to visit in Istria.

Istria Travel Guide

Where is istria & how to get there.

Istria is located at the westernmost part of Croatia, very close to the border with Italy and Slovenia. It’s the biggest peninsula in Croatia, so the majority of the towns there are located on the Adriatic coast. However, the inland is equally impressive, so be sure to visit some of the places there, as well.

There is an airport in Pula, the biggest city in Istria, and during the summer months, there are many connections with European cities from there. You can also fly to Zagreb , and drive to Istria from there. It’s going to take you around two hours to get to Pula from there.

* TIP : Rent a car! My favourite part of staying in Istria is exploring it by a car, and going on some day trips while there. It seems like every single village there has an interesting story to be explored. Roads are very good and driving around Istria is easy and enjoyable.

What is Istria famous for?

#- istrian food.

Istrian food is so delicious! Try some seafood, grilled fish or go to some of the ‘fishermen evenings’ organised at the city centres of many of its coastal towns during the summer. It’s also famous for its pasta ( pljukanci , fuži and other types of local pasta are something you shouldn’t miss while in Istria). Istrian olive oil is fantastic, and there is even a museum in Pula dedicated to it.

#- Giants who built the small villages on the top of the hills in Istria

A popular Istrian legend says that the giants actually made all those beautiful small villages located on the top of the hills at the inland of Istria. They were giving the stones to each other and have built the houses high in the hills that way. The most famous giant among them was Veli Jože, and there are many stories about him still preserved in Croatia.

#- Medieval wall paintings in Istria

During the Middle Ages, many small churches were built in Istria. Located mostly in the inland they were painted by some great master painters. Although a bit hard to visit (you should often get to the Parish Office and ask for the key), they are wonderful to explore and to admire the colourful interiors many of them have.

#- Roman ruins in Istria

As the most of the Croatian coast, some Istrian cities were also a part of the Roman Empire 2000 years ago. And you can still find many Roman ruins in them. They are the best-preserved in Pula, where you can find the amphitheatre, triumphal arch, Roman theatre, city villas, mosaics, temple etc.

* TIP : The gladiator fights shows are organised regularly during the summer months at the Roman amphitheatre in Pula. You can read more about them on a link here .

#- Italian language in Istria

Located at the westernmost part of Croatia, very close to the border with Italy, the majority of Istria is a bilingual region. You’re going to find the signs written both in Croatian and Italian. And you’ll find there many locals speaking Italian.

#- Istrian Kažun

When driving around Istria you may stumble upon small traditional houses made of the white stone – kažun. Built in a method of dry stone, they are one of the symbols of Istria today. They were used mostly by shepherds as the shelters during the bad weather. And are part of the cultural heritage of Istria today.

#- Istrian Wine

The region of Istria is home to some of my favourite Croatian wines. Malvasia, white wine and Teran, the red one, are the ones you should try while there.

⤷ Read my Croatia Travel Guide on a link here!

The best places to visit in Istria

Pula is the biggest city in Istria and the one which is the closest to the airport. Filled with some fantastic Roman ruins, like the well-preserved amphitheatre, triumphal arch, theatre, temple etc. It’s a great place to visit to enjoy in some of Croatia’s cultural heritage.

My favourite area to stay there is Verudela, where you can find many hotels and accommodations.

With its old city walls, the old Medieval town of Motovun looks almost like a fortress. Located at the inland of Istria on a top of the hill, having a panoramic view from it is a beautiful experience. A small town could be explored on foot, so just stroll around its narrow stone streets and enjoy in a place that looks like it haven’t changed at all throughout the history.

* TIP : Each July one of the most famous Croatian film festivals is organised in Motovun. If you would like to enjoy watching the movies at the old central square in this Istrian town, be sure to plan your visit around that time.

Rovinj is one of the most beautiful towns in Istria, and definitely one of my personal favourites. The old town is located at a small peninsula, on a top of which the church of St. Eufemia is situated. It is full of narrow streets that are becoming open-air art galleries throughout the summer. With a rich fishermen tradition , paying a visit to one of its restaurants and trying some local food is absolutely a must!

⤷ Read more about Rovinj in my blog post on a link here

A small village located just a stone’s throw away from Motovun is definitely among the best places to visit in Istria. Almost abandoned in the 1950s, it was later on inhabited by the artists, who opened their shops and galleries there.

Porec is a town filled with history, from the Roman times until the modern days. It has a beautiful historic city centre with some lovely narrow streets and old wooden houses. It’s the most famous for its Euphrasius Basilica, one of the best-preserved late Antiquity church complexes with a strong influence of the Byzantine art.

Known as the smallest town in the world, a Medieval town of Hum is not only one of the best places to visit in Istria, but also one of its hidden gems. It’s also a great place to see some of the old Glagolitic (an old Medieval letters that used to be used in Croatia) writings at the walls of the church there. You can also see some of the Glagolitic writings at the local museum in Hum.

One of the most beautiful Croatia’s National Parks is located in Istria, and it shouldn’t be missed while there. The beautiful archipelago is home to some fantastic beaches, wild animals and cultural sights. If in Istria, then visit to Brijuni Islands is a must.

⤷ Read my post about a day trip to Brijuni Islands on a link here

Another one of Istrian hidden gems is a small town of Vodnjan. Home to some beautiful city palaces, it’s also the first place in Istria that got the electric city lights. It’s a home to the tallest tower in Istria, the St. Blaise Church tower. The church itself is quite famous, as well, because of its mysterious mummies of the saints which are exposed in the glass coffins. Bodies are still intact after the centuries they died, and the science still can’t explain how is that possible. Need some more convincing to visit this Istrian town? I didn’t think so.

Novigrad is a small town located at the west coast of Istria. Its historical centre is surrounded with the stone walls and filled with some typical Mediterranean colourful houses. Interior of the St. Pelagius’ and St. Maximus’ Parish Church is definitely worth visiting.

Located in central Istria, Pazin is one of the best places to visit in Istria’s inland. It’s famous for its castle located right in the city centre. There is a fantastic museum located in it today, where you can learn more about this town and life in the castle back in the day. Pazinska Jama is the pit located just next to the castle. Both of them inspired Jules Verne for his novel ‘Mathias Sandorf’ in 1885.

Located at the northwest of the peninsula, the town of Umag is famous for its tennis tournament organised in that lovely Istrian town each July. It’s also home to some excellent hotel resorts and some lovely restaurants.

No matter if you’re looking for the weekend break or a place for a longer vacation, you can’t go wrong with any of these best places to visit in Istria. Have you visited any of them yet? Let me know in the comments below.

Best places to visit in Istria , croatia , istria , Istria Travel Guide

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Istria Travel Guide

This heart-shaped peninsula was the birthplace of modern Croatian tourism, and it’s easy to see why. Its history has bestowed it with Italian sophistication, most obviously seen in pastel-painted coastal towns, like romantic Rovinj. But, tear yourself away from the Istrian coast, through the vineyards, olive groves, and dense forests, and you will discover brilliantly preserved medieval towns and villages, where cobbled streets reveal quaint galleries, sweet squares and sea-views.

These small rural communities supply the coast’s fancy restaurants with some of the world’s finest ingredients. From the wild asparagus and rich white truffles which adorn their menus, to the unmistakable smell of roasting chestnuts which waft around the region in winter. It’s Istria’s heady mix of world-class gastronomy, rich history and superb scenery which make it one of our favourite destinations for year-round adventures.

When to visit Istria

Like a lot of destinations in Europe, the best time to visit is just outside of the peak summer months. Aim to visit Istria in June or September – where the average temperature is between 24° and 26°, the evenings are balmy, and the tourists are back at home (or at least, a lot of them are). But if you don’t mind the tourists, you enjoy lying by the pool soaking up the sun – and let’s be real here, the only time the kids can go on holiday is in those busy summer months – then you’ve got to visit between July and August. It’s 29° on average, and it’s still just as beautiful.

How to get there

Idyllic landscapes of Motovun old town

In summer, British Airways, easyJet and Ryanair (plus a handful of other airlines) run regular flights between the UK and Pula Airport. If you haven’t arranged car hire from Pula, you can catch a taxi or bus to the main coastal resorts.

Trieste and Venice are also relatively close, and make good alternative airports out of season, with buses connecting them to Pula and some Istrian resorts. It’s also possible to travel from Venice to Istria’s main coastal resorts by ferry from April – October.

Why visit Istria?

The crumbling ruins of the Roman Coliseum in Pula

Istria’s history is complex and bloody. History buffs will appreciate the Roman legacy, particularly visible in Pula, one of the best towns in Istria for sightseeing. The city’s impressively preserved 1st-Century amphitheatre, The Arena, is a must-see. The main square and the port also feature Roman temples and glorious arches. Many of the region’s smaller towns house splendid churches; Poreč’s 6th-Century basilica is our favourite, showcasing Byzantine architecture and a mosaic-covered apse.

Food and wine

Inland, Istria is Croatia’s pantry, and visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to authentic Istrian food, with forests hiding highly sought-after white truffles, olive groves carpeting its slopes and rural farms producing superb cured meats. Undulating hills, a moderate and balmy climate have also helped the region scoop plenty of international wine awards in recent years. Our Istrian wineries and food guide reveal some of the best vineyards Istria has to offer, as well as alternative spots to sample the best Istrian wines.

Locals love a festival, celebrating everything from food and wine to art, film and dance. And as summer descends on Istria, so do the world’s best DJs. Pula’s 19th-Century defence fortress, Fort Punta Christo, is the top venue for big gigs and music events, but it’s local food festivals which dominate Istria’s calendar – honouring everything from wild asparagus and olive oil to chestnuts and those famous Istrian truffles.

Many of the best Istrian beaches are actually pebbly coves or rocky bathing areas. The lack of sand is a big bonus for snorkellers, providing crystal clear waters. However, if you’re after a sandy beach, Istria has a handful to choose from – one of the most popular is well-equipped Bijeca, near family-friendly Medulin.

Hidden gems

One of the many azure bays on Istria’s coastline

• Zlatni Rt, Rovinj’s ‘Golden Cape’, is a lush peninsula with a string of sheltered bays. Great for families and outdoorsy types, the forest itself lends itself to hiking, cycling and rock climbing. 
• Visit the Lim Valley’s abandoned town, Dvigrad. Everything from pirates to the plague ravaged the unfortunate medieval town; stroll through its empty streets and admire the derelict house, ruined walls and various defence towers. 
• Istria’s remote east coast doesn’t feature much in travel guides – and what better reason to visit? Start in the hilltop town of Labin or the colourful coastal town of Rabac – it has some of the best beaches in Istria , including busy Girandella. 
• Located on Istria’s most southernly point, the uninhabited national park of Cape Kamenjak is sprinkled with coves and beaches just waiting to be discovered – sometimes you can even spot dolphins and seals!

Where to visit

The pastel-hued streets of Rovinj

• Whether you are after adrenaline-fuelled adventures or utter relaxation, there are so many things to do in Istria , you’re spoilt for choice… whatever time of year you visit! No trip is complete without experiencing the west coast’s riviera-style coastal towns. Our favourite is bohemian Rovinj, home to the area’s best-preserved Venetian port. Its cobbled streets showcase Renaissance and Baroque architecture, with pastel-painted houses, boutiques and galleries winding their way up to pretty St. Euphemia’s Church. Alternatively, Novigrad has a laidback vibe, and in low season, touristy Poreč has lots to offer.
• Pula’s Roman ruins are a sight to behold. Its most famous attraction is its 2,000-year-old amphitheatre, which has evolved from staging gladiatorial battles to open-air concerts and festivals. While in the city, seek out the Arch of the Sergii and the Temple of Augustus.
• Venture inland to Istria’s medieval hilltop towns, such as Motovun. The Venetian-fortified town commands spectacular views of the Mirna River Valley. Wander ancient ramparts, snoop in galleries and enjoy a drink in the main square. Ancient Pazin, arty Grožnjan and Hum, said to be the smallest town in the world, are also lovely.
• Despite having less islands than neighbouring regions, Istria is a magnet for sailors, so hop aboard and explore the islands. Whilst a  private jet charter  is an option along the coast to visit every island, Veliki Brijuni, the Brijuni National Park’s  largest island, is an easy and affordable day trip. Just a 15-minute crossing from Fažana, it boasts golf courses, restaurants, a safari park and even real dinosaur footprints! Alternatively, catch a boat from Rovinj to Red Island and find an empty beach.

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