Wondering what the best things to do in Istria are? You’ve come to the right place!
This hidden gem of Croatia is the largest peninsula on the Adriatic Sea, making it a must-visit destination worthy of a spot on your bucket list.
Discover the best things to do in Istria as you immerse yourself in stunning scenery, white sandy beaches, delicious wine, and fascinating history.
Explore remarkable landmarks and azure blue waters. Enjoy sunny weather, savor local cuisine, and explore picturesque towns.
Here are the top 10 reasons why this stunning region of Croatia should be at the top of your travel bucket list, featuring the the best things to do in Istria.
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Table of Contents
Map of the Best Things to Do in Istria
1. Explore the Picturesque Streets of Rovinj: One of the Best Things to Do in Istria
Discover the captivating medieval town of Rovinj, one of the best things to do in Istria that should not be missed.
Rovinj is renowned as the most beautiful city in Croatia, boasting a scenic location overlooking the Adriatic Sea and a unique history of construction on an island connected to the mainland.
Stroll leisurely through its charming streets to immerse yourself in its rich culture and history. Perfect for a romantic getaway, Rovinj offers stunning views from both the harbor and elevated viewpoints.
Don’t forget to visit landmarks like the Gate of St. Benedict, the Portico, the Gate of St. Cross, and the Venetian town clock while exploring the Old Town.
2. Indulge in Truffle Tasting in Motovun
The Istria Peninsula is a must-visit for truffle enthusiasts, offering some of the world’s finest truffles.
Immerse yourself in this culinary delight in the charming town of Motovun, boasting breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards.
Motovun gained fame as the site where the largest white truffle in history was unearthed in 1999, making it a uniquely memorable destination.
Don’t miss the annual White Truffle Festival held every October, celebrating this remarkable discovery.
Sample exquisite truffle-infused dishes at Konoba Mondo, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving a wide range of truffle delicacies, from appetizers to desserts.
3. Marvel at the Views from the Basilica in Poreč
Be sure to include Poreč in your travel plans if you appreciate world-class monuments and the best things to do in Istria.
This picturesque town, located 35 km north of Rovinj, is home to the impressive Euphrasian Basilica, hailed as one of the best-preserved examples of Byzantine art in Croatia.
It’s no surprise that it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. The basilica’s interior is adorned with stunning Byzantine mosaics, while the bell tower of the Archbishop’s Palace offers breathtaking vistas of the city.
Take a leisurely stroll along the seaside promenade to admire the Gothic palaces and savor the refreshing sea breeze. From Poreč, you can easily catch a regular ferry to Venice, just a 3-hour ride away.
4. Capture a Photo with Casanova in Vrsar
Another compelling reason to explore Croatian Istria is Vrsar, a charming fishing village boasting a picturesque harbor and a quaint old town, typical of Mediterranean cities.
Perched atop a hill, the town offers numerous vantage points to witness breathtaking sunsets. Giacomo Casanova, the famous lover, also fell under the spell of Vrsar, immortalizing his time in the city in his memoirs.
Look out for the bronze statue of Casanova seated on a bench, eagerly awaiting to be photographed with you.
And don’t forget to mark your calendar for the annual Casanovafest, a celebration of love featuring literary evenings, film screenings, and music concerts.
5. Marvel at the Roman Amphitheater in Pula: One of the Best Things to Do in Istria
No trip to the Istria Peninsula would be complete without a visit to the vibrant city of Pula. Here lies one of Croatia’s most magnificent treasures: the Roman amphitheater.
This remarkable structure, dating back to antiquity, ranks among the largest preserved Roman arenas globally, alongside Rome’s Colosseum. Notably, Pula’s amphitheater is distinguished by its four side towers, still standing today.
Originally constructed from wood, the arena was later rebuilt with limestone. At its peak, the Pula amphitheater accommodated up to 23,000 spectators, hosting thrilling gladiator contests.
Today, the arena primarily hosts concerts, with renowned artists such as Elton John, Luciano Pavarotti, and Andrea Bocelli gracing its stage.
6. Indulge in Oysters from Lim Bay
Just a 15-minute drive north of Rovinj, Lim Bay is an essential stop on the Istria Peninsula. This 10-kilometer-long canal, nestled in a picturesque valley carved by the Pazinčica River, is actually a lagoon.
It’s no wonder this place has served as a backdrop for numerous films, including The Vikings (1959) and The Long Ships (1964).
Thanks to the unique characteristics of its waters—lower salt content and high oxygen concentration—Lim Bay is a nature reserve teeming with diverse fish, shellfish, and oysters.
For the ultimate seafood experience, head to the Viking restaurant, located right on the canal. While prices may not be the most budget-friendly (freshly caught oysters go for around 2.5 euros each, and half a kilogram of mussels costs approximately 9 euros), the unforgettable experience more than justifies it.
7. Diving at Girandella Beach on the Istria Peninsula
If you’re looking for a beautiful beach destination on the Istria Peninsula, Girandella beach is a must-visit. Located in the charming fishing village of Rabac on the peninsula’s eastern coast, this beach is considered one of the best in the region.
Its pebble coves and crystal clear turquoise water create a heavenly scene, making it an ideal spot for sea bathing and sunbathing. You can rent sun loungers and umbrellas or grab a drink at the stylish bar.
For the more adventurous, Girandella beach boasts an excellent diving school that offers various extreme sports activities. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing or action-packed vacation, Girandella beach has got you covered.
8. Explore the Smallest City in the World
Ever wondered about the tiniest city on Earth? Look no further than Hum, nestled on the Istria Peninsula in Croatia. With a mere 30 residents and full city status, Hum is a hidden gem waiting to be uncovered.
Perched atop a picturesque hill, this charming town offers breathtaking views reminiscent of sunny Tuscany.
Must-see attractions include the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the bell tower, and the frescoes in the Chapel of St. Jerome.
If you plan to visit, June is an ideal time to witness the ancient tradition of electing the mayor. Discover Hum, the world’s smallest city, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Istria Peninsula.
9. Admire the Beauty of Brijuni National Park: One of the Best Things to Do in Istria
If you’re seeking a vacation destination, Istria should be at the top of your list, especially with the allure of Brijuni National Park. Stretching along Istria’s western coastline, the park encompasses 14 islands steeped in history dating back to Roman times.
Among these islands, Veliki Brijun and Mali Brijun stand out as the most impressive. Veliki Brijun, the largest and most picturesque in the archipelago, draws visitors with its stunning landscapes.
Meanwhile, Mali Brijun, the second largest, is renowned for its impressive fortifications and the Ulysses Theatre, which hosts large crowds every summer.
For a delightful beach experience, head to Sveti Jerolim, a favorite spot for day-trippers. Access to the Brijuni Islands is via ferry from Fažana, with admission to the park required.
10. Indulge in Local Wine on the Istria Peninsula
The Istrian peninsula is celebrated for its outstanding wines, making it a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts. Interestingly, the Greeks introduced the first grapes to the region in the 6th century BC, establishing it as one of Europe’s oldest wine regions.
The peninsula’s extensive coastline and hilly terrain provide an ideal environment for cultivating a variety of grape varietals.
The most renowned grape variety on the peninsula is the Malvazija Istarska, renowned for its refreshing and fruity white wines. Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Teran, and Refošk are among the principal red grape varieties cultivated in Istria’s iron-rich soils.
Kozlovic Winery, Stancija Collis, and Cattunar are among the top wineries to visit for sampling Istrian wines. Wine tasting experiences typically range from 25 to 33 euros per person, offering 4-6 glasses of wine to savor.
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Summary
When planning your trip to Croatia, be sure to include the Istria Peninsula on your itinerary. While Rovinj may be the main draw for many, this peninsula offers so much more.
Discover impressive monuments, natural wonders, and the breathtaking coastline. Istria’s culinary scene is especially renowned, with opportunities to savor local delicacies like truffles and seafood, paired with the famous Malvazija Istarska wine.
Don’t miss out on the chance to explore all that the Istria Peninsula has to offer!
I trust that the list above has inspired you to consider a visit to the Istria in Croatia. If you’ve already had the pleasure of exploring Istria and have any recommendations to add, please feel free to share them in the comments below!