Croatia makes a brand new ‘must-see record’ every week, and I agree – it’s essential to see it for your self. I’ve been exploring Istria in Croatia’s north for greater than 20 years. We take an annual journey right here – to that, listed here are the highest historic, lively, and finest issues to do in Istria, Croatia that I like to recommend.
With a Mediterranean local weather, a UNESCO World Heritage Web site, lush olive groves, wine tasting at each flip, historical Roman ruins, and the well-known white and black truffles, Istria needs to be the place you’re taking your subsequent trip.
Croatia makes a brand new ‘must-see record’ every week, and I agree – it’s essential to see it for your self. Whereas right here, let me present you the astonishing magnificence and shade that awaits you while you go to Istria, Croatia.
Istria is a very talked-about area with overseas sunseekers who flock to this peninsula to swim within the crystal clear Adriatic sea all through summer season.
Coastal cities like Rovinj and Poreč are teeming with holidaymakers sunbathing alongside her shores (often called “Blue Istria”) – however allow us to for a second pack up the seaside towels and head inland Istria – often called “Inexperienced Istria,” the place fertile lands abound, charming medieval hilltop cities maintain watch.
Idyllic villages and medieval cities maintained their character from centuries in the past.
Should you haven’t heard of Istria, you need to test it out. That is Croatia’s little slice of heaven, with an Italian twist thrown in for good measure!
Full of tiny Istrian cities, stunning hidden seashores, aromatic roses, scrumptious wines, and a few of the least expensive truffles anyplace else on this planet, Istria is a giant contender for one in every of Croatia’s best-kept secrets and techniques.
I do know you’re additionally planning to move to Dubrovnik or the Dalmatian Coast, however be aware of this. Flights to Pula Worldwide Airport have gotten more and more frequent, and after summer season, and the Istrian Coast continues to be open and jam-packed with issues to do.
Take a look at this enjoyable record of concepts to present you just a little glimpse into what’s a must-see in Istria, Croatia.
So, let’s get to it; here’s what to do, Istria…
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Bewitching Bale
Picturesque Bale is a small city made totally from stone. It jogs my memory very a lot of one of many units from Sport of Thrones or Harry Potter. Situated within the southwestern a part of Istria, simply 20km away from the town of Pula, you can see one in every of my latest favorites, Croatian cities – a city made up of 48% Italians and is formally bilingual.
As soon as in Bale, it’s exhausting to imagine that the maze of cobblestone streets and neatly restored homes is simply 7km from the Adriatic Sea.
What To Do In Bale
- Paleontologists ought to head to the city museum, the place fossils of the stays of the Histriasaurus dinosaur are on show.
- Wander up alongside the cobblestone streets to the just lately restored Gothic-Renaissance-style fortress of the Bembo household and shoot images of the city under.
- Maintain your eyes peeled for the 400-year-old olive grove
- If church buildings and outdated frescos are of curiosity, you’ll want to discover the important thing to the Holy Spirit Church, constructed within the 15th Century
Test Out The Lighting Of The Giants
An age-old Croatian legend says real-life giants used to name the Istrian area house. Some folks imagine the Giants have returned to the realm however in a barely completely different life.
Hit the streets of Pula at evening, and you’ll absolutely see the large cranes of the Uljanik shipyard – one of many oldest docks on this planet – in lots of colours and particular results.
It’s a spectacular gentle present within the coronary heart of the town that’s price staying up late. It’s a murals referred to as “Lighting Giants” by Croatian designer Dina Skiri, who grew up in entrance of the shipyard’s cranes that dominate the Pula horizon. The present goes on two or thrice per evening after the solar goes down, relying on the season, and every show will final roughly fifteen minutes.
Odor The Roses In Could
Could is when the roses round Istria are in full bloom, and the way aromatic they’re! You will note each shade possible virtually in every single place you look!
Historic Hum
I introduce to you the teeny tiny city of Hum. Regardless of studying (and listening to) repeatedly that Hum is listed because the Guinness Guide of Data holder for being the smallest city, I can’t discover proof. Nor can I discover some other city on this planet so small. Vatican Metropolis is smaller but additionally a rustic, so that you determine—both approach.
Situated in central Istria, the partitions across the exterior of Hum are nonetheless intact and show the previous defenses that when protected the city. There at the moment are 27 individuals who name Hum house – together with 4 little ones. All 27 stay on one in every of Hum’s two streets.
What To Do In Hum
- Whereas there isn’t quite a bit relating to touristic points of interest in Hum city, merely because of its measurement, it’s surrounded by a few of the most stunning surroundings you’ll set your eyes on and has a tavern that serves conventional Istrian meals.
- Admire the frescos within the Romanic chapel of St. Jerolim
- Strive the native Humska Biska, a brandy produced from the city’s mistletoe. Should you take pleasure in brandy, plan your go to in October when the City of Hum holds a Grappa Pageant. Native brandy producers from throughout Istria come to point out off their concoctions to win prizes.
Jam At Vsar’s Annual Music Pageant
The primary attraction of the annual stay music live performance in Vrsar is its location. It takes place within the deserted seaside quarry of Montraker, on the town’s outskirts.
The cliffs supply glorious pure acoustics, and waves touching the coast are accompanied by sounds you have got by no means heard. The occasion focuses on rock, jazz, and blues performers from Croatia and the encircling international locations.
Head Underground In Cave Baredine
When you have at all times been fascinated by what lies beneath the floor, you need to head to Cave Baredine, the place you may take a look at spectacular stalactites and uncommon wildlife. Guests enterprise 60 meters under the floor near Porec to discover the 5 chambers.
Discover The Underwater World Of Verudela
Istria is thought worldwide for its spectacular rocky seashores and crystal-clear waters. Nevertheless, the attention can see solely half the magic in Croatia. If you wish to discover the opposite half of the world, it’s essential to discover this mystical underwater metropolis.
Situated on the Verudela peninsula, this park is as distinctive because it sounds. You could put on a particular helmet to take care of oxygen, and it’ll will let you stroll as much as 4 meters under sea degree and discover the 200-square-meter park underwater.
A information can accompany as much as 5 folks at a time. In the meantime, you may hug sea urchins, feed fish, maintain shrimps, and see wartime shipwrecks. And if you would like, attempt biking on the backside of the ocean!
The whole lot will be filmed with the assistance of a information, so you’ll have a reminiscence that lasts for a lifetime and a hell of a video to make your loved ones and buddies envious. The one factor is – in case you are touring with youngsters, it’s essential to observe that children beneath ten should not allowed.
Uncover The Istrian Hill Cities
Simply as so many secret treasures are ready for you on the coast, the identical may very well be mentioned concerning the mountains in Istria. The spectacular panorama of the hills of central Istria is definitely akin to that of Tuscany in Italy.
Stroll alongside the cobblestone streets of unknown gems, such because the cities of Groznjan, Motovun, Oprtalj, Buje, Završje, and Labin. It’s assured to take you on a journey again in time and present you the facet of Croatia that isn’t fancy resorts and vacationer get-ups.
It’s a marvel extra folks don’t go to this unexplored oasis. Surrounded by partitions and towers, most of the outdated buildings of those medieval fortified cities date again to Venetian and even Roman instances.
Motovun, a medieval fortified city on a hill, is perhaps the most well-liked due to its picturesque view of the encircling countryside, the place you may sit, drink, and benefit from the view.
Listed here are just a few hilltop cities that I really like:
Memorable Motovun
A lot of Istria’s most stunning locations should not giant touristic cities with loud nightlife; they’re small, quaint villages overflowing with nature and wonder. Motovun is one in every of these locations.
Motovun, Croatia, is perched on a hill, which suggests you get unimaginable panoramic views of the encircling areas. The village is lapped by the River Mirna, which flows on the backside of the hill, nearly making a ‘moat’ really feel, including to its attraction.
One of many village’s claims to fame is that this area is house to a few of Croatia’s finest truffles within the Motovun Forest. This in itself is a fantastic vacation spot, filled with wildlife to discover, in addition to endemic wildlife, and is house to the black and white Croatian truffles coveted by many foodies across the globe.
Things To Do In Motovun
- Take a nature stroll within the Motovun forest, or attempt your hand at truffle searching.
- Head into the Church of the Virgin Mary. Inside is a 16th-century wood hand-carved Renaissance-style gold-plated altar.
- Sit back and watch the killer sunsets whilst you take pleasure in a refreshment at one of many bars.
- Keep at Lodge Motovun. You gained’t remorse it.
Tour A Village Residence To Many Artists
The village of Groznjan dates again to the 12th Century, and the encircling structure exhibits that. Its age provides the village a personality, in contrast to many locations in Istria, and due to that, it has attracted a pleasant inhabitants of artistic, inventive folks.
Take pleasure in visiting the pleasant village the place many artists stay and promote handicrafts of their quaint, family-owned artwork galleries and retailers. Should you occur to be touring to Istria in July, the village hosts a jazz pageant, which you shouldn’t miss!
Manufacturers We Use And Belief
Paraglide In Buzet
The Istrian peninsula gives a few of the most spectacular, underrated surroundings in Croatia, and the most effective methods to benefit from the views is undoubtedly parachuting, paragliding, or flying.
It’s an effective way to boost your trip in Istria and admire the breathtaking magnificence from a hen’s eye view. In Istria, there are a number of paragliding spots, most of that are situated close to the mountains of Ucka and Buzet.
Go to The Seashores Of Rabac
The gorgeous seaside, the “pearl of the Adriatic,” has a Blue Flag (a globally acknowledged image of high quality service and cleanliness of the ocean and shoreline) and all the required seaside gear for a pleasant stress-free day within the solar.
St. Andrea has a stony seaside and is standard amongst all vacationers, particularly those that prefer to swim and eat ice cream. On the seaside, you may hire solar loungers, umbrellas, and varied gear for water sports activities and snorkeling.
Go to James Joyce’s Former Home
You’ll discover the bar the place the well-known author James Joyce drank in Pula. There’s even a life-size statue of Joyce himself!
Rock Climb In Istria
The recognition of climbing has simply began to growth in Istria. Towards the tip of the 20th Century, climbers systematically found new routes throughout the peninsula and determined to hang around.
With the emergence of latest routes, Istria attracted an increasing number of climbers worldwide who needed to overcome a few of the most difficult routes in Europe.
Now, the area gives about 1,200 routes to discover and is effectively well worth the time spent in your trip – particularly for the adrenaline junkies on the market.
Brijuni Nationwide Park
Right here, you can see 14 islands; essentially the most visited are Veli Brijun and Mali Brijun; each are straightforward to achieve. The landscapes on the island differ on each, and they’re so stunning that they had been declared protected in 1983.
Eat Croatian Truffles (No Want To Break The Financial institution)
Istria is likely one of the world’s least expensive locations to take pleasure in this luxury dish; you can see them in every single place! Motovun and Livade (amongst others) are the place you can see pasta dishes laced with truffles for a fraction of the worth tag you’ll anticipate.
I didn’t know a lot about truffles till 2010 when Mr. Chasing the Donkey and I went to a white truffle pageant in Alba, Italy. I’ll always remember strolling as much as the constructing’s entry door and being overwhelmed by the pungent aroma.
I used to be pulling faces and in search of a proof for the scent. Initially, I used to be baffled. I had by no means smelt something prefer it earlier than; I quickly realized it was the scent of white truffles. Now, I’m a complete convert. I get my truffle repair any probability that I get.
These of you who haven’t had the pleasure of tasting a white truffle are in all probability questioning what’s so particular about them. It comes down to 2 issues:
- The scent and style. It actually is exclusive. Some folks describe the scent of soiled socks, others of newly-plowed soil, fall rain, or burrowing earthworms. The actual fact is you may’t clarify it, or at the least, I can’t
- White truffles are extraordinarily uncommon and may solely be collected from September to January yearly. Put collectively one thing distinctive and uncommon, and you’ve got a treasured product. So worthwhile, in truth, that the costs vary from 900 -5000 euros per kilo. Now, that’s greater than the price of gold!
Annually, you may plan to get an overdose of truffles on the ‘Zigante Truffle Days’ in Livade (near Motovun). This occasion transforms Livade into the middle of Istrian truffles.
Every weekend, you may attend the truffle truthful, a world exhibition of wine and different indigenous Istrian merchandise (similar to Istrian prosciutto, sausages, cheese, further virgin olive oil, and rakija), truffle searching, and cooking demonstrations.
Go On An Journey In The Mountains
Učka is protected as a nature park and acts as a divider between central Istria and the favored Kvarner area. In Učka, there are a lot of alternatives for spending free time, similar to mountain biking, mountain climbing, mountain climbing, parachuting, caving, and far more.
Additionally it is a really perfect place to go to households with youngsters and an academic path for kids. The Nature Park has eight marked biking trails of assorted problem ranges, totaling 180 km.
Go to the best peak of the mountain, Voyak (1402 m), the place since 1911, you can see Voyaktorien with a panoramic view of Istria, Kvarner Bay, and the islands.
Uncover A Child Dragon. . . Form Of
Some creatures seem like they may develop into dragons within the Baredine Grotto’s distant waters, tucked away in caves. The individuals who first found these creatures thought the identical as a result of they’re referred to as “child dragons.”
We’re certain there’s a extra scientific identify. You could rent a ship to take you there and be taught their actual identify! Nonetheless, we choose to maintain our creativeness open to interpretation reasonably than be taught the precise scientific information about this mysterious creature that lurks in the dead of night caves.
Fly By way of A Cave
Need an adrenaline rush? The Zipline Pazin Cave will take you on 4 completely different routes by way of Pazin Cave’s distinctive panorama, a pure phenomenon triggered by the Pazincica River.
The primary two traces are 80 meters lengthy, and the third is a whopping 220 meters lengthy. The fourth and final line is 280 meters lengthy and has a most pace of over 40 miles per hour! Nevertheless, that’s not even the longest trip.
By way of your screams and fears (see Mr. Chasing the Donkey within the video above), you may take pleasure in a fantastic view of the cave and the well-known fortress proper above the cave.
All the tour occurs beneath the watch of two skilled guides and lasts anyplace from half an hour to an hour lengthy, relying on the group’s measurement. This provides you with sufficient time to spend the remainder of the day at your discretion (maybe testing a few of the different nice issues on this record).
Go On A Semi-Submarine Exploration
This small boat seems like an actual submarine and is half-submerged whereas the opposite half stays above the floor, so it’s aptly referred to as half-submarine.
From inside, you’ll have essentially the most intense take a look at below-sea depths you have got probably ever had.
The boat travels throughout the water, and you’ll see plenty of sea life. The submarine travels close to Rovinj and all of the close by islands and gives each day and evening excursions.
You’d be shocked by how a lot life and magic occurs beneath the ocean in the dead of night! The distinctive optical glass lets you get nearer to unique fish, protected coral, and every kind of the marine bio like you have got by no means imagined.
Afterward, will probably be price your time to go up the deck hatch to take pleasure in panoramic views of the coast and the unbelievable Outdated City of Rovinj. The journey beneath the ocean lasts 45 minutes and runs each hour practically all day lengthy. In case you are spending your day in Rovinj, you need to contemplate it one of many prime issues in your record to do.
Check Some Genuine Olive Oil
Istrian olive oil is legendary for its high quality. There isn’t a scarcity of olive oil in Istria. In Poreč, you may head to the Agrolaguna tasting room, take pleasure in olive oil tastings, and find out how it’s made.
One expertise you’ll take pleasure in is to move to the tremendous modern BRIST Olive Oil tasting store in Vodnanj close to Pula. I cherished this expertise with the Puhar household, who run BRIST. They make further virgin olive oils produced from historically grown native olive varieties from their six-hectare grove. Additionally they hand-pick all of the olives from the olive timber – no machines are utilized in selecting. Yikes, that’s exhausting work.
Whereas at BRIST, purchase a bottle of the BRIST Intenso Olive Oil! And, if you wish to be daring while you get house, drizzle a few of the oil over premium vanilla ice cream – I do know it sounds odd, however belief me, it’s an actual deal with.
If neither of those olive oil ideas are in your route, you can too look into the next:
- Chiavalon Olive Farm in Vodnjan
- Agrolaguna in Porec
- Ipsa Olive Oil Tasting Room in Livade
Spend An Afternoon At A Vineyard
Whereas we talked about the open door coverage of wineries throughout a weekend in Could, it doesn’t matter what time of 12 months it’s to take pleasure in a day at a vineyard, studying about how they’re made and testing them out, too. Istria is filled with wineries, so that you definitely have a lot to take pleasure in. Simply you’ll want to name forward; they aren’t at all times open, so it’s good to ask when to return by.
Take pleasure in The Open Wine Cellar Day
Oh, and should you love wine. Make sure to be in Istria over the last Sunday of Could. The wineries round Istria open their doorways, and all guests to take a look at free wine tastings and find out how native wines are made.
Go to The Roman Enviornment In Pula
That is the sixth largest amphitheater relationship again to Roman instances, and it’s certainly breathtaking. You may take a look at the Colosseum and the caves beneath the floor and the audio tour, which can make it easier to be taught extra about this not-to-miss website on the southern tip of the peninsula.
You may head to the Roman Enviornment every July and benefit from the Pula Movie Pageant.
See One Of The Largest Truffles In The World
If you find yourself in Istria, it’s a must to view what was, for a very long time, the most important truffle on this planet. Clearly, the truffle has been eaten, however Mr. Zigante, who discovered the truffle, had a solid made from it and is now on show at his restaurant.
The legendary truffle weighed practically 5 kilos and held the Guinness Guide of World Data as the most important truffle ever discovered for a very long time.
While you go to Zigante restaurant to see the mould, ensure additionally to eat lunch or dinner there – the meals is ah-may-zing!
Scuba Diving
Round Pula, you can see a number of spots for scuba diving and the Brijuni Nationwide Park. You may earn your PADI certification right here, additionally. The waters round Rovinj are additionally standard spots, with a number of shipwrecks to discover, together with Baron Gautsch.
Take pleasure in Porec Outdated City
A bit like heading again in time, Porec Outdated City is well-preserved and has varied varieties of structure to take pleasure in, together with Roman, gothic, baroque, and Renaissance.
Head To The Sea Shore
The seashores in Istria are dramatic and delightful, and whereas many head to the Dalmatian coast as a substitute, they’re lacking out!
You’ve heard of Rovinj, however you can too take a look at seaside leisure similar to Vrsar, Pula, Rabac, Poreč, Umag, and Novigrad.
We made a listing of wonderful seashores in Istria which have the clearest of clear waters, nice meals, and loads of all-year-round festivities.
Pay attention To Summer season Music In Goznjan
Throughout July and August, musicians flock to the small city of Goznjan for the Faculty for Musicians. This isn’t a touristy place in any respect, and it’s fairly exhausting to get to on public transport, however should you rent a automotive, you may actually benefit from the off-the-beaten-track vibe and the genuine lifestyle.
Throughout the low season months, you could find fabulous fall (or Spring) foliage and cafes to take a seat again and watch the world go by.
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Take pleasure in The View From Rovinj Bell Tower
Rovinj is a complete weblog submit of its personal – you may see every part to do there right here. There are heaps to maintain you busy on this charming seaside city – although annually I really feel it turns into far more touristy. So head there shortly.
This city makes for an amazing place to rejoice a birthday, and it’s essential to attempt climbing the bell tower. It’s well-known, and you’ll climb to the highest for superb views over this historic city. Be warned, although – it’s not for the faint-hearted (or chubby!); the steps are slender and rickety.
Take A Dip At Lone Bay Seaside
Most Croatian seashores should not sandy (there are some), however they nonetheless have a lot to supply! The coast of Lone Bay, close to Rovinj, is a part of a protected forest park and one of the vital standard seashores within the area. The water is crammed with stunning inexperienced and blue shades and is a haven for photographers.
A number of dozen toes from the coast, you may chill out within the shade of centuries-old timber and take one thing to eat within the bar. You may hire paddle boats from the shore and take them out to the pristine turquoise waters everytime you need. Should you like fish, there isn’t a scarcity of eating places to select from close by.
Not solely that, should you take the inexperienced path into city, it’s only a brief stroll from the seaside, and there you could find much more in Rovinj to have enjoyable with.
Different Things To Do In Istria
- Porer Lighthouse or Savudrija Lighthouse
- Go to St. Andrew’s Island
- Mountain Biking In Motovun: An outdated railroad runs from Trieste to Porec, and it goes by way of Motovun, the place a few of the most dramatic surroundings will be discovered. There is a superb biking path right here, and this can be a standard exercise to take pleasure in.
- Hire a motorcycle and sightsee on 4 wheels: You should utilize ‘Subsequent Bike’ in Poreč, ‘RM Group’ in Rovinj, or Pula contact’ Malupe.’
- Take a foodie tour: Most are walkable, which suggests you can too see the native sights. Begin these two Flavors of Istria or Pula Strolling Meals Tour, and if they don’t go well with
Things To Do In Istria With Youngsters
I want to take a seat down and write an in depth submit on this – however to get you began with enjoyable issues to do in Istria with children – that you just’ll all take pleasure in, begin off with one (or all) of those enjoyable concepts:
Glavani Journey Park
For these looking for native journey within the nice outdoor, Glavani Park is your house to be, particularly should you’re touring to Croatia with children.
You can find Croatia’s largest tree rope climbing park and some extra neat points of interest right here. Whereas children can climb just a few toes excessive, there are extra superior routes for older, extra skilled climbers that attain practically twenty toes. Should you really feel courageous, some may even attain over thirty toes excessive.
After you end, you may tackle the course often called the Satan’s Causeway. There are tons of latest experiences to tackle, together with a 35-foot drop on the 3G Excessive Swing, a climbing wall, a tall tower, and even a human catapult.
There are many issues to do for the entire household. And within the night, take a look at the nightly exhibits the park hosts within the efficiency venue.
Different cool issues to do in Istria with children are:
- Dino Park in Funtana: Should you’re with youngsters or are merely taken with prehistoric creatures, take a look at Funtana. There’s an outdated quarry which is roofed with thickly wooded areas. There are rides, paths, and loads of dinosaur enjoyable.
- Punta Corrente Forest Park: Simply 15 minutes from Rovinj, you’ll be submerged in nature, and you’ll take pleasure in plentiful out of doors actions, similar to swimming, jogging, and biking
- Pazin Citadel: The Citadel of Pazin is the most important and best-preserved fortress in Istria
- Pican: Take a look at the 14th Century St. Nicephorus Cathedral
These are just some actions and experiences you may have in Istria; there are a lot extra in addition to.
The area is downright stunning and as pure as you’ll ever discover anyplace, which means that guests who select to take a look at the Dalmatian Coast reasonably than Istria are lacking out in a giant, massive approach!
ISTRIA FAQs
What are the must-visit points of interest in Istria?
Istria gives a wealth of points of interest, together with the traditional Roman amphitheater in Pula, the picturesque city of Rovinj, the Brijuni Islands Nationwide Park, and the gorgeous seashores alongside the coast.
When is the most effective time to go to Istria?
The most effective time to go to Istria is throughout the spring and early autumn when the climate is nice, and there are fewer vacationers in comparison with the height summer season season.
What are some conventional Istrian dishes to attempt?
Istria is thought for its scrumptious delicacies. Some conventional dishes to attempt embrace “istrska supa” (fish soup), “fuži” (pasta with truffles), and “maneštra” (a hearty vegetable stew).
Is it essential to hire a automotive to discover Istria?
Whereas renting a automotive gives flexibility, it’s not essential to discover Istria. Public transport choices exist, and plenty of cities and points of interest are accessible on foot.
Are there any music festivals in Istria throughout the summer season?
Sure, Istria hosts a number of music festivals throughout the summer season months, together with the Outlook Pageant in Pula and the Dimensions Pageant in Štinjan.
Are you able to go to Istria on a day journey from Zagreb?
Whereas Istria will be visited on a day journey from Zagreb, spending at the least just a few days to expertise the area’s points of interest and tradition absolutely is advisable.
What are some out of doors actions to do in Istria?
Istria gives varied out of doors actions, similar to mountain climbing within the Učka Nature Park, biking alongside the Parenzana path, and water sports activities on the Adriatic coast.
The place will you go? What’s going to you do? You’ll must plan your go to, and also you’ll must do your analysis so that you don’t miss out on the great things!
#ShareIstria – In Partnership With The Vacationer Board Of Istria
This submit is a part of a sequence #ShareIstria. Half (however not all) of the prices of transport, lodging, meals, and native guides required to convey you the Istria Vacationer Board supplied this information. However all opinions are mine. All suggestions are given wholeheartedly and with out bias.