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- Istria
Istria
Northwest Croatian peninsula with Roman ruins
- 22 destinations
- 144 attractions
About Istria
Istria, the heart-shaped peninsula in northwest Croatia, offers a captivating mix of stunning coastlines, medieval towns, and lush countryside. Known for its delicious truffles, excellent wines, and vibrant cultural scene, Istria is a perfect destination for both relaxation and adventure.
Located in the northwest of Croatia, Istria is a stunning peninsula bordered by the Adriatic Sea to the west and north, and Slovenia to the north. Major cities include Pula, known for its Roman amphitheater, Rovinj with its picturesque old town, and Poreč, famous for the UNESCO-listed Euphrasian Basilica. Key attractions include exploring the Brijuni National Park, savoring local wines and truffles, and visiting the hilltop town of Motovun. Visitors can immerse themselves in the region’s rich history through its well-preserved Roman ruins, Venetian architecture, and charming medieval villages. Istria's natural beauty is highlighted by its rugged coastline, pristine beaches, and rolling hills covered with vineyards and olive groves. The best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn when the weather is warm and conducive for outdoor activities. Travelers can reach Istria via the international airports in Pula or Rijeka and get around by renting a car, which provides the flexibility to explore the diverse landscape and hidden gems of the region.Where to go in Istria
Istria
Rovinj
Istrian coastal gem with Venetian old town and island views
Istria
Pula
Roman amphitheater city with coastal views and ancient ruins
Istria
Poreč
UNESCO basilica, Roman ruins, and Istrian seaside charm
Istria
Brijuni Islands
Picturesque archipelago with rich biodiversity
Istria
Motovun
Istrian hilltop town with medieval walls and truffle forests
Istria
Grožnjan
Hilltop Istrian town famed for art, music, and medieval charm
Istria
Medulin
Istrian seaside town with sandy beaches and island cruises
Istria
Rabac
Istrian Riviera resort with pebble beaches and scenic hikes
What to see
Brijuni Islands · Coastal & Maritime
Brijuni National Park
Adriatic islands with Roman ruins and safari wildlife
Pazin · Food & Gastronomy
Anđelini Winery
Boutique winery with century-old wine and honey traditions
Pula · History & Heritage
Arch of Sergii
Roman triumphal arch honoring Sergii family in Pula
Rovinj · History & Heritage
Balbi Arch
Baroque arch marking Rovinj’s Venetian entrance
Bale · Cultural Experiences
Bale's Cultural Summer
Historic stone town with jazz and olive groves
Poreč · Natural Wonders
Baredine Cave
Underground cave with rare olm and formations
Vrsar · Cultural Experiences
Bell Tower of Vrsar
Historic bell tower with panoramic sea views
Svetvinčenat · History & Heritage
Castle of Svetvinčenat
14th-century castle with interactive multimedia exhibits
Fažana · Cultural Experiences
Fažana Old Town (Stari Grad Fažana)
Historic coastal town with medieval defense homes
Itineraries for Istria
Day-by-day routes you can follow as written or borrow from.
Stories and tips
· 9 min read
Rijeka Carnival 2027: Dates, Parades, Zvončari & Where to Watch
Croatia's biggest carnival: the International Parade on 7 February, the children's parade and the UNESCO bell-ringers
· 12 min read
Croatia's Hidden Waterfalls: Berberov Buk, Jankovića Buk, Sastavci & Zarečki Krov
Swim under tufa cascades on the Zrmanja, see Plitvice's quieter fall and find Istria's rock-roofed pool.
· 12 min read
Best Beaches of the Kvarner Gulf and Velebit Coast: Medane, Lanterna, Tatinja & Šimuni
Pebble coves, clear water and island views from Krk and Rabac to Karlobag and Pag.