Villa Rosy

With a 14-island archipelago on its doorstep, Rovinj is arguably the prettiest spot on the Istrian coast. The Old Town sits on a peninsula which juts out into the Adriatic. Its most famous landmark, the imposing Baroque church of St Euphemia, delivers the most incredible views from its striking bell tower, modelled on St Mark’s Cathedral in Venice.
 
Rovinj is ideal for water sports such as snorkelling and diving, and boat trips out to islands off the coast also make for pleasing diversions. The wreck of an Austrian steamer, the Baron Gautsch, lies beneath the waters of Rovinj and is a popular attraction, with organised dives available.
 
A charming place with a Mediterranean feels, this attractive town is not short of visitors, so it has a good range of restaurants and tourist-friendly facilities. A smattering of museums and galleries should satisfy the need for local culture and history, and in summer, you can enjoy a festival of classical and folk concerts. Jazz aficionados should head to nearby Bale in August for the Last Minute Open Jazz Festival.
 
Not too far up the coast, the resort of Poreč is another popular spot with a good range of attractions to see. The Roman Old Town is home to notable buildings like the 6th-century Euphrasian Basilica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the beautiful Zuccato Palace, while Poreč’s Baredine Cave offers an atmospheric underground adventure. Cyclists may want to seek out the Parenzana Trail, formerly a railway track running all the way to Trieste in Italy.
 
Istria has much to offer beyond its larger centres, and it’s worth heading inland for some of the smaller, lesser-discovered gems. The idyllic town of Motovun found high on a hilltop, is one to consider. Motovun stages its own International Film Festival in summer, with indoor and outdoor screenings of the kind of independent and arthouse fare that won’t find its way to your average multiplex.
 
Charming Buzet’s big event is the annual Festival of Subotina, based around its prized truffles with a huge truffle omelette as the edible centrepiece. You will find more foodie delights back on the coast in Novigrad, which hosts the Gnam-Gnam food festival and has some excellent places to eat.

If you prefer to do your own thing and admire the region's natural beauty, the rugged Učka Nature Park could be the place for you. The mountainous terrain spreads out towards Istria’s eastern coast. Not far away, you can live the high life in the chic spa resort of Opatija, the most glamorous location on the Istrian map.

Read more about Istria

Nestled along Croatia’s enchanting Adriatic coastline, Istria welcomes visitors with open arms and a rich tapestry of experiences waiting to be unraveled. Whether you're seeking adventure in nature, indulgence in culinary delights, a glimpse into history and culture, or simply a warm and inviting atmosphere, the peninsula of Istria has it all.

Istria's diverse and unspoiled landscapes will be the first thing to capture your attention! The region is renowned for its lush green hills, rolling vineyards, and enchanting coastline: the stunning scenery is a playground for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and beachgoers alike.

Offering a remarkable 445 kilometres of pristine coastline, including tranquil coves and sandy beaches, visitors can find plenty of secluded spots to soak up the sun. The clear, azure waters of the Adriatic are perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and scuba diving, making it a fantastic choice for those who enjoy an active day of water sports.

Venture inland and you'll discover picturesque villages set amidst rolling hills and verdant forests. Istria is home to over 30 nature reserves - an absolute haven for hikers and cyclists, with an abundance of well-marked trails to explore. The Učka Nature Park, in particular, stands out as a hiking and nature lover's paradise, offering waterfalls, historic villages, and breathtaking panoramic views of Istria's outstanding scenery.

Istria's rich history is woven into the fabric of its towns and cities. An ever popular choice for tourists is the impressive port city of Pula, full of quaint town squares and local restaurants, and home to one of the most well-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. This ancient arena, known as the Pula Arena, is a testament to Istria's Roman heritage and hosts numerous events, including concerts and film festivals.

The medieval towns of Rovinj and Motovun enchant visitors with their cobbled streets and historic charm. The Euphrasian Basilica in Poreč, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a stunning example of early Christian art and architecture.

Istria's culinary scene is a treat for the taste buds: the region is famous for its truffles, particularly the elusive white truffle, and you can savour dishes infused with this prized delicacy in charming local restaurants across the region. Wine and olive oil lovers will find joy in Istria's vineyards and olive groves, offering tastings and insights into traditional production methods. Fresh seafood, often served with a Mediterranean twist, is a staple that you can enjoy at quaint waterfront eateries along the coastline.

One of the most enduring memories visitors take away from Istria is the warmth of its people. The locals are known for their friendly, welcoming nature and their willingness to share their traditions and stories with tourists. You'll find yourself immersed in the local way of life, whether you're exploring ancient towns or enjoying a meal in a family-run tavern.

Istria is easily accessible, with Pula Airport serving as a major gateway. Once you arrive, navigating the region is a breeze with well-maintained roads connecting major towns and villages. Language barriers are minimal, thanks to the widespread use of English, Italian, and German, alongside the local Croatian language.

Istria’s unique blend of pristine landscapes, rich traditions, and warm-hearted locals creates an experience that will linger in your memories long after you've returned home.

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