Where to stay in Istria to make the most of the peninsula? Which city to choose? On the west coast, east coast or inland?
Here’s our guide comparing the best places to stay in Istria:
- Map of towns to stay in,
- The advantages and disadvantages of each,
- Our accommodation recommendations by city,
- …
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.
Where to stay in Istria – map and summary
Map of towns to stay in Istria
Istria is a triangular peninsula in northern Croatia, bordering the Adriatic Sea. Most places to stay are along the west coast, renowned for its clear waters and historic villages. To help you find all the places we mention in this article, here’s a map:
The 3 main coastal towns
If you don’t want to read the whole article, here’s what you need to know.
The widest choice of accommodation and restaurants can be found in 3 main coastal towns:
- Rovinj
Istria’s most photogenic town, perched on a peninsula. Dense old town, lively waterfront and access to the Rovinj archipelago by boat.
Go directly to the best-rated available homes - Pula
Istria’s largest city, famous for its Roman amphitheatre (1st century). A good base for combining ancient heritage and beaches, especially those of the Brijuni National Park.
View directly top-rated available homes - Poreč
Known for the Euphrasian Basilica (UNESCO heritage, Byzantine art from the 6th century), a good starting point for families and lovers of developed beaches.
See directly the best rated available accommodations.
Where to stay in Istria according to your needs
Where to stay in Istria without a car
Without a car, go for Rovinj or Pula. Both towns have compact historic centers that can be explored on foot, restaurants and shops within easy reach, and bus links to other Istrian towns.
Where to stay in Istria to explore the whole peninsula
Istria is relatively compact: between Pula in the south and Umag in the north, allow around 1h15 driving time. To balance out your travel time, a central location like Poreč or Vrsar may be a good idea. However, we recommend dividing your stay between two bases – for example, a few nights on the west coast (Rovinj or Poreč) and a few nights inland (Motovun) – to vary the atmosphere and limit the number of return trips.
Where to stay in Istria for the best beaches
Beaches in Istria are mainly rocky or pebbly – fine sand is rare. If you’re looking for crystal-clear coves, the coastline around Rovinj and Cape Kamenjak (south of Pula) offer the best bathing. We found the coves around Cape Kamenjak exceptional for snorkeling. Around Poreč and Vrsar, the beaches are often developed and more accessible, making them more suitable for families.
Where to stay in Istria with your family
For family vacations, we recommend Poreč or Fažana. Poreč boasts gently sloping beaches, quality campsites and child-friendly resorts. The smaller Fažana offers a quiet setting and is the starting point for the Brijuni National Park – an excursion we particularly enjoyed, with its Roman remains and wildlife reserve.
Where to stay in Istria for couples
Rovinj is the obvious choice for a romantic getaway for two, thanks to its romantic atmosphere and hillside lanes. Motovuninland, offers a more intimate alternative: a hilltop village surrounded by vineyards and forests. The atmosphere here is very different from the coast, quieter and more focused on gastronomy – truffles, local wines and olive oil.
Where to stay in Istria for night-time activities
Pula offers the liveliest nightlife of any major city. In summer, Fort Punta Christo regularly hosts events and concerts. Rovinj also offers a pleasant evening bar scene, concentrated around the harbor and the old town.
Where to sleep in Istria – best accommodations
You can also choose where to stay in Istria according to your accommodation preferences. From charming hotels in the old town to secluded villas in the hills, from modern apartments by the sea to top-of-the-range campsites. Here are our favorites, based on our experiences:
Hotel Lone (Rovinj)
5-star design hotel set in a forest park just a few minutes’ walk from the old town. Contemporary architecture and direct access to the sea.
See top rated accommodations in Rovinj
Hotel Kastel (Motovun)
Charming little hotel at the top of the fortified village, overlooking the Mirna valley. We enjoyed the view from the terrace and the proximity of the truffle restaurants.
See top-rated accommodations in Motovun
Hotel Park Plaza Histria (Pula)
Large seaside hotel on the Verudela peninsula, close to beaches and a short bus ride from the historic center.
See top-rated accommodations in Pula
Destination 1 – Rovinj
Why stay in Rovinj
In our opinion, Rovinj is the most striking town on the Istrian coast. Built on a peninsula, its old town forms a labyrinth of narrow streets that climb up to the 18th-century church of St. Euphemia, whose steeple dominates the entire bay. The port is lined with colorful facades, art galleries and fish restaurants.
We particularly appreciated the atmosphere at the end of the day, when the low-angled light illuminates the facades and the terraces come alive. The hotel offer is varied: from small, charming hotels in the old town to larger establishments in the forest park of Zlatni Rt.
However, at the height of the season (July-August), the old town can be very crowded, and prices rise significantly. We advise you to visit in June or September for a better balance between bustle and tranquillity.
Beach types
The beaches around Rovinj are mainly rocky or made up of concrete slabs designed for swimming. You’ll find..:
- The rocky coves of the Zlatni Rt forest park (Punta Corrente), surrounded by pine trees
- Lone Bay, a landscaped beach close to Hotel Lone
- Mulini Beach, a pebble beach between the old town and the forest park
- The island of Sveta Katarina, accessible by water cab from the port, for a more secluded swim.
What to do in Rovinj
- Lose yourself in the narrow streets of the old town as far as the Church of St. Euphemia
- Swimming in the coves of the Zlatni Rt forest park
- Take a boat to the Rovinj archipelago (Sveta Katarina and Crveni Otok islands)
- Visit the art galleries on Rue Grisia
- Enjoy seafood in the port’s restaurants
- Explore the Lim Fjord by kayak or boat excursion
Where to sleep in Rovinj – Accommodation
Here are our favorites:
- Charming hotel: Hotel Spirito Santo Palazzo Storico in the old town (adults-only)
Check photos and availability - 5 stars: Grand Park Hotel, facing the peninsula for exceptional views
Check photos and availability - Family: Hotel Family Amarin, seaside resort north of the city
Check photos and availability - Apartments: many rentals in and around the old town
or See top rated accommodations in Rovinj
It’s time to book!
Compare everything: companies, prices, schedules and availability.
Destination 2 – Pula
Why stay in Pula
Pula is Istria’s largest city and its cultural center. The Roman amphitheatre (Arena), built in the 1st century, is one of the best preserved in the world and still hosts concerts in summer. In addition to this emblematic monument, the town center boasts other ancient remains: the Temple of Augustus, the Sergii Arch and the Forum.
We found Pula interesting for its dual identity: a lively year-round town (unlike seaside resorts, which empty out out of season) and a gateway to the beaches of the Verudela peninsula and Cape Kamenjak. The restaurant offer is also more diversified than elsewhere in Istria, with prices often more affordable than in Rovinj. On the other hand, the town is less “postcard” than Rovinj – its charm is more urban and raw.
Beach types
Pula’s beaches are concentrated on the Verudela peninsula, south of the city center:
- Havajska Plaza (Hawaiian Beach), rocky coves with turquoise waters
- Ambrela Beach, a family-friendly beach
- Stoja, a popular campground with flat rocks
- Cape Kamenjak (30min to the south), a protected natural park with dozens of wild coves – the best swimming spot in Istria, in our opinion.
What to do in Pula
- Visit the Roman amphitheatre (Arena) and its underground passages
- Discover the historic center: Temple of Augustus, Arch of the Sergii, Roman Forum
- Explore the coves of Cape Kamenjak by car or bike
- Take a boat from Fažana to Brijuni National Park
- Attend a summer concert in the amphitheatre
- Snorkeling around Verudela
Where to sleep in Pula – Accommodation
Here are our favorites:
- Charming hotel: Boutique Hotel Velsabbion with exceptional views
Check photos and availability - 5 stars: Grand Hotel Biorni Pula, between sea and forest
Check photos and availability - Family: Hotel Family resort del Mar
Check photos and availability - Adults-only: Hotel Mondival, quiet
Check photos and availability - Apartments: many rentals in and around the old town
or See top rated accommodations in Pula
Destination 3 – Poreč
Why stay in Poreč
Poreč has plenty of charm: its old town retains a street plan inherited from Roman times, and its Euphrasian Basilica houses some of the best-preserved 6th-century Byzantine mosaics in the Mediterranean.
The tourist offer around Poreč is extensive: large hotel complexes, well-equipped campsites (some ranked among the best in Europe) and developed beaches. It’s a destination well suited to families and organized holidays.
On the other hand, the atmosphere is more standardized than in Rovinj or the inland villages. We recommend staying slightly outside the center to enjoy the peace and quiet while remaining close to amenities.
Beach types
Poreč’s beaches are generally pebbled or flat-rocked, often landscaped:
- Zelena Laguna beach, one of the most popular south of the city
- Brulo beach, family-friendly thanks to gradual access to the water
- Beach on the island of Sveti Nikola, accessible by water cab from the port of Poreč.
What to do in Poreč
- Visit the Euphrasian Basilica and its Byzantine mosaics
- Stroll through the old town along the Decumanus, the main artery of Roman origin
- Take the boat to Sveti Nikola island
- Cycling along the coast to Vrsar
- Taste local olive oil and wine (Malvazija) in the vicinity
Where to sleep in Porec – Accommodation
Here are our favorites:
- Waterfront: Valamar Riviera Hotel to fall asleep to the sound of the water
Check photos and availability - 5 stars: Jadran Heritage Hotel, in the heart of the city
Check photos and availability - Family: Pical Resort Hotel, with lots of activities
Check photos and availability - Apartments: many rentals in and around the old town
or See top rated accommodations in Porec
Destination 4 – Vrsar
Why stay in Vrsar
Vrsar is a small village perched on a hill between Poreč and Rovinj, at the entrance to the Lim Fjord (a 10km coastal channel). The village retains a discreet charm, with its stone streets and Romanesque church at the top. If you’re looking for a slower pace, away from the hustle and bustle of the main towns, this is the right choice for you.
We loved the panoramic view from the top of the village over the Lim Fjord and surrounding islets. Accommodation in Vrsar consists mainly of campsites (including the famous Koversada, one of Europe’s largest naturist camps) and apartments. Hotel options remain limited, but it’s a quiet base from which to explore the surrounding area.
Beach types
The beaches around Vrsar are mostly rocky and lined with pine trees:
- The coves along the south coast towards Rovinj
- Family-friendly Porto Sole beach
- The beaches of the Koversada complex
What to do in Vrsar
- Explore the hilltop village and its panoramic views
- Take a boat trip on the Lim Fjord to sample mussels and oysters
- Swimming in the surrounding creeks
- Cycling or kayaking along the coast
Where to sleep in Vrsar – Accommodation
You’ll find mainly rentals, but also a few hotels like the Maistra Select Petalon.
or See top rated accommodations in Vrsar
Destination 5 – Brijuni National Park
Why stay in Brijuni National Park?
For a unique night or a few days!
Brijuni is a fascinating archipelago off the coast of Fažana, made up of 14 islands combining wild nature and historical relics. Formerly Tito’s summer residence, the main island, Veliki Brijun, offers a timeless setting of Roman ruins, safari parks and Mediterranean gardens. It’s an exclusive destination for those wishing to isolate themselves from the world in a prestigious, unspoilt setting.
We loved the feeling of total freedom once the last tourist boats had left, leaving the island to the hotel residents. Riding a golf cart or bicycle among free-ranging deer and thousand-year-old olive trees is a unique Croatian experience.
Beach types
Brijuni’s beaches are wild and unspoilt, with exceptionally clear water:
- Baie de Verige: a sheltered cove where you can swim at the foot of Roman ruins.
- Saluga Beach: a family-friendly beach with a pine forest offering natural shade.
- Rocky coves: numerous access points to the water all around the island for absolute tranquility.
What to do in Brijuni Park
- Safari Park: to see zebras, llamas and elephants, the legacy of diplomatic gifts from the former Yugoslavia.
- Explore archaeological sites: visit the Roman villa on the Bay of Verige and the Byzantine castrum.
- Visit the Tito Museum: to understand the unique political and diplomatic history of the archipelago.
- Play golf or tennis: on historic courses laid out in the early 20th century.
Where to sleep – Accommodation
Options for accommodation directly in the park are limited. There are a few exclusive villas. There is one main hotel. Otherwise, stay in Fazana and take the boat.
Historic hotel: Hôtel Neptun, located directly on the port. This is the island’s emblematic establishment, offering spacious rooms with sea or park views, in a very authentic retro-chic atmosphere. View Hotel Neptun availability
Destination 6 – Opatija
Why stay in Opatija
Opatija is technically in Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, but occupies the eastern coast of the Istrian peninsula and is a natural gateway to the region. A seaside resort since the 19th century, it has preserved its remarkable Austro-Hungarian architecture: Belle Époque villas, grand colonnaded hotels and subtropical gardens.
We enjoyed the Lungomare, a 12km coastal promenade linking Volosko to Lovran, ideal for walking by the sea. Opatija has a more elegant, “classic” character than the towns on the Istrian west coast.
It’s a resort reminiscent of the French Riviera or the spa towns of Central Europe. The hotel offer is extensive, from historic palaces to modern hotels. It’s also a convenient base for visiting Rijeka and the islands opposite.
Beach types
Opatija’s beaches are mainly developed rocky platforms or small coves:
- Slatina Beach, the main beach in the town center
- Tomaševac Beach, small pebbly cove
- The longer beaches of Lovran and Medveja, accessible along the Lungomare.
What to do in Opatija
- Stroll along the Lungomare, the 12km coastal promenade
- Visit Angiolina Park and its subtropical gardens
- Admire the architecture of Austro-Hungarian villas
- Take a trip to Volosko, a fishing village renowned for its restaurants
- Take the cable car to Mount Učka (panoramic view of the Kvarner Bay)
Where to sleep in Opatija – Accommodation
Here are our favorites:
- 5 stars: Amadria Park Hotel Milenij, exceptional seafront
Check photos and availability - Small: Boutique & Design Hotel Navis, modern and truly nestled in nature
Check photos and availability - Historic charm: Hotel Imperial by Luburnia, in a must-see building
Check photos and availability - Apartments: many rentals in and around the old town
or See top rated accommodations in Opatija
Destination 7 – Fažana
Why stay in Fažana
Fažana is a small fishing town 8km north of Pula, best known as a departure point for the Brijuni National Park. But the town is well worth a visit: a pleasant waterfront lined with restaurants, a calm, family atmosphere, and prices that are generally lower than in neighboring seaside resorts.
We liked Fažana for its authentic character. Fishermen still bring their daily catch back to port in the morning. It’s an ideal place if you’re traveling with the family or looking for a quiet base close to Pula. The hotel offer is limited.
Beach types
Fažana’s beaches are modest but functional:
- Bi Val Beach, a small pebble beach to the north of the town
- Rocky downtown beach facing the Brijuni Islands
- Brijuni beaches (accessible only by excursion)
What to do in Fažana
- Take the boat to Brijuni National Park (Roman remains, wildlife reserve, unspoilt countryside)
- Stroll along the waterfront and enjoy grilled fish
- Visit the church of Saint-Côme-et-Saint-Damien and its frescoes
- Explore Pula (8km away) and Cape Kamenjak (25min drive)
Where to sleep in Fažana – Accommodation
You’ll find mainly rentals, but also a few hotels like the Villetta Phasiana.
See top rated accommodations in Fazana
Destination 8 – Umag
Why stay in Umag
Umag is located in the extreme north-west of Istria, just 40 minutes from the Italian border and Trieste. This proximity is reflected in the town’s architecture and cuisine, a blend of Croatian and Italian influences. The town attracts visitors with its relaxed atmosphere.
We found Umag pleasant for a quiet seaside holiday, without the crowds of Poreč or Rovinj. The old town is compact and more modest than Rovinj’s, but has some good restaurants. It’s also a good starting point for excursions to Italy (Trieste, Aquileia) or to the villages of the Istrian interior.
Beach types
Umag’s beaches are among the longest and best equipped in Istria:
- Family-friendly Laguna Stella Maris beach, lined with pine trees
- The wilder Kanegra beach on the Slovenian border
- Wide, landscaped Katoro beach, close to resorts
What to do in Umag
- Stroll through the old town and its narrow streets
- Enjoy the beaches
- Take a day trip to Trieste (Italy), a 40-minute drive away
- Discover the vineyards and olive groves of the surrounding hills
- Attend the ATP tennis tournament (summer)
Where to sleep in Umag – Accommodation
You will mainly find rentals.
But also some hotels like
- Hotel Pelegin Plava Laguna (resort)
- Hotel Sipar Plava Laguna (resort)
- Hotel Natura Vilanija (small hotel)
See top rated accommodations in Umag
Destination 9 – Novigrad
Why stay in Novigrad
Novigrad is a small coastal town wedged between Umag and Poreč, often overlooked by guidebooks. This is precisely what makes it so attractive: an authentic old town surrounded by ramparts, a still-active fishing port and some of the best restaurants on the Istrian coast. We appreciated Novigrad’s calm compared to its more crowded neighbors.
Beach types
Novigrad’s beaches are varied for such a small town:
- The old town beach, rocky and easy to access
- Karpinjan beach, to the south, pebbly and family-friendly
- Pineta beach, lined with pine trees, pleasant in summer for its natural shade
What to do in Novigrad
- Stroll through the walled old town and along the harbour
- Enjoy fresh fish in the port’s restaurants (the town is renowned for its gastronomy)
- Cycling on the coastal paths to Poreč
- Visit the Gallerion Museum (maritime museum)
- Excursions to inland villages
Where to sleep in Novigrad – Accommodation
You’ll mainly find rentals.
But there are also a few nice hotel-hostels like:
- 5 stars: Blu Mare Hotel
- Resort: Hotel Aminess Vival Maestral
- Charm: Palazzo Rainis Hotel
See top rated accommodations in Novigrad
Destination 10 – Motovun or Central Istrian villages
Why stay in Motovun
Motovun is one of the best-known hilltop villages in inland Istria, perched atop a hill 277m above sea level. The village is surrounded by medieval ramparts and offers uninterrupted views over the Mirna valley, covered in vineyards and oak forests (where Istrian white and black truffles are harvested).
We found the atmosphere in Motovun very different from that on the coast: more contemplative, with an emphasis on gastronomy and local produce. Accommodation is limited to a few hotels and guesthouses, but quality is generally high.
What to do in Motovun
- Take a walk on the ramparts to admire the view over the Mirna valley
- Taste truffles in the village’s restaurants and stores
- Truffle hunting with a local guide and his dog
- Taste local wines (Malvazija, Teran) at nearby wineries
- Visit the nearby villages of Grožnjan (artists’ village) and Oprtalj
Where to sleep in Motovun – Accommodation
You’ll find mainly rentals.
But there are also 2 nice hotels:
- Roxanich Winery and Design hotel with hill and village views – Check photos and availability
- Boutique Hotel Kastel, in the heart of the village – Check photos and availability
See top-rated accommodations in Motovun
Other places to stay in or near Istria
Destination 11. Labin / Rabac
Staying at Labin et Rabac is the perfect combination of medieval charm and seaside pleasures.
- Labin: Perched on a hill, this city of art seduces visitors with its colorful alleyways, mining past and panoramic views of the Adriatic.
- Rabac: Just down the road, this former fishing village offers pebble beaches with crystal-clear waters, ideal for relaxation.
Less crowded than western Istria, this area is the ideal starting point for exploring the region while remaining authentic.
See top-rated accommodations in Labin / Rabac
Destination 12: Medulin and Cape Kamenjak
Choosing Medulin and Cape Kamenjak means opting for wilderness and adventure at the southern tip of Istria. It’s the ideal place for cycling enthusiasts.
- Medulin: A dynamic resort, famous for Bijeca beach, one of the few sandy beaches in the region, perfect for families.
- Cape Kamenjak: A protected nature reserve offering spectacular cliffs, secret coves and turquoise waters for snorkeling.
See top-rated accommodations in Medulin and Cape Town
Destination 13. Rijeka (large city near Istria)
Rijeka is Croatia’s third largest city and the country’s main port. Not a classic seaside destination, it offers an interesting urban alternative for those wishing to discover Croatia from a different angle. A former European Capital of Culture (2020), Rijeka boasts a vibrant art scene, a lively covered market and a variety of architecture.
We find Rijeka a convenient logistical base: the city is well connected by bus and ferry to the Kvarner islands (Cres, Krk, Lošinj) and inland Istria. Accommodation is more affordable than by the sea.
See the top-rated accommodations in Rijeka.
Frequently asked questions
Best destinations in Istria
In our opinion, the best destinations in Istria are Rovinj for its coastal setting and ambience, and Motovun to discover the inland and Istrian gastronomy. For a complete seaside holiday, Poreč offers the best balance between beaches, activities and accommodation. And we recommend Pula if you’re also into culture.
Istria: west or east coast?
The west coast concentrates the majority of the tourist offer: Rovinj, Poreč, Umag, Novigrad and Vrsar are located here. Here, the waters are calmer and the sunsets face the sea. The east coast (Opatija, Rabac) is less developed, but offers panoramic views of the Kvarner islands. We recommend the west coast for a first stay, and the east coast for returning travelers or those combining Istria and the islands.
How many days in Istria?
We recommend a minimum of 5 to 7 days to get the most out of Istria. This allows you to combine a few days on the coast with an excursion inland. If you have more time, 10 days will allow you to explore the peninsula without rushing, adding Opatija and an excursion to the islands of Cres or Krk. More tips.
Getting around Istria
A car is the most practical way to explore Istria, especially if you want to visit the inland villages. Roads are in good condition and distances are short. Bus links exist between the main coastal towns, but frequency may be limited outside the high season. In summer, water cabs link some coastal towns.
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