Planning a trip to Croatia and wondering what to do in Istria? This peninsula north of the Adriatic offers incredible diversity: historic towns, turquoise beaches and coves, hilltop villages, lush green landscapes and unique gastronomic experiences. From Pula and its Roman amphitheater to Rovinj and its colorful alleyways, via the Brijuni islands, the beaches of the coast and the more rural hinterland, Istria can be discovered through a wide variety of places and activities.
Here’s our selection of 14 must-see places and activities in Istria, with our own photos to help you choose!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.
1. Visit Pula and its Roman amphitheatre
Pula is Istria’s most emblematic city and a must-see if you’re curious about culture and history. Its Roman amphitheatre, built in the 1st century BC, is one of the best preserved in the world and is the symbol of the town. We were struck by its imposing size: capable of accommodating up to 20,000 spectators at the time, it was used for gladiatorial combat and other public spectacles. Walking around the stands, we understood why it attracts visitors from all over the world every year.
Pula’s city center is also well worth a visit: the Arch of Sergius, the Roman Forum and the Hercules Gate are reminders that Pula was one of the most important colonies of the Roman Empire.
Book your guided tour of Pula now
But there’s more to Pula than its ancient remains: the port and quayside are bustling with life, with cafés and markets where you can sample local produce. In the surrounding area, there are several beaches within a few minutes’ drive of the Adriatic Sea, such as Punta Verudela beach and those around Cape Kamenjak, ideal for swimming, snorkeling or coastal walks.
From Pula, you can also travel to the Brijuni islands or southern Istria, making it a convenient starting point for discovering the region from many angles, between heritage, sea and nature.
2. Discover Poreč and its Euphrasian Basilica (UNESCO)
Poreč offers a very different face from Pula, with a more intimate atmosphere and deeply marked by Venetian influence. The town is famous for its Euphrasian Basilica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an early Christian architectural ensemble that bears exceptional witness to Byzantine art in the Adriatic. Around the basilica, the old town is easily explored on foot, with cobbled streets and small squares where you can stop for a coffee or a snack.
The promenade along the waterfront offers panoramic views of the sea and the nearby islands, and is a pleasant place to linger at the end of the day to enjoy the light and calm.
The area around Poreč is also well worth a visit: the beaches of Zelena Laguna and Funtana are within easy reach. You can also explore the nearby villages or opt for a whale-watching excursion at sea, for example.
3. Setting sail for the Brijuni Islands
Just a few kilometers from Pula, the Brijuni islands form a unique archipelago classified as a national park, and are a must-see excursion in the region. We fell in love with the island of Brijuni (yes, because although Brijuni is an archipelago, only one of the islands can be visited). Here you’ll discover an unspoilt landscape where lush green meadows, Mediterranean forests and secluded coves blend harmoniously. On the island, you can discover Roman and Venetian remains, as well as buildings dating back to the time when Tito (former president of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia) made it his presidential residence.
Part of the island is even home to a small animal park, a remnant of this period, which is home to zebras, deer and other exotic species. The paths are ideal for peaceful walks or bike rides, far from the crowds of the coast. Panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and surrounding islands are spectacular. A day in Brijuni is ideal for experiencing Istria’s unspoilt wilderness, while discovering its historical and natural heritage. However, if you have the opportunity, we recommend an overnight stay.
Take a boat trip through the Brijuni archipelago with dolphin watching – find out more and book
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING YOUR CAR AT Croatia
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that is powerful enough (the roads are steep) but compact (some passages are narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
See our tips (coming soon)
4. Rovinj and its old town
Rovinj is one of Istria’s most emblematic and picturesque towns, a must if you love pretty, authentic, lively little towns brimming with treasures to discover and landscapes to admire. The old town is perched on a peninsula and comprises a maze of cobbled streets, staircases and small squares where you can stroll, discover craft stores or stop off at a café. At the top, the church dominates the town, offering an exceptional panorama of the colorful rooftops, harbor and neighboring islands. We were won over by Rovinj’s lively yet intimate atmosphere.
The area around Rovinj is the perfect place to round off your visit: the promenade along the seafront links several pebble beaches and small coves, perfect for swimming or snorkeling. A few minutes by car is all it takes to reach the Cape Kamenjak Nature Park, a real gem for lovers of nature and wild landscapes. Between the sea and the hills, you can explore the small panoramic roads and vineyards, which offer spectacular views of the coast. Rovinj is an excellent starting point for discovering western Istria.
Discover how the town of Rovinj came about by historical coincidence on a guided tour of the historic old town – Find out more and book
5. Explore Motovun, a village perched high above the vineyards
Motovun is one of Istria’s most beautiful hilltop villages, recognizable by its silhouette overlooking the green valleys, vineyards and truffle forests for which the region is famous. We were impressed by its perfectly preserved medieval atmosphere, with ramparts, cobbled streets and stone houses forming a harmonious hilltop ensemble. Arriving at the village offers one of the most emblematic panoramas of Green Istria, a rolling landscape of crops, forests and soft light.
The village of Motovun is definitely worth a visit! Walking through its cobbled streets and stone houses, we rediscovered the authentic atmosphere of an unspoilt medieval village, far from the hustle and bustle of coastal towns. You’ll discover a place where history can still be read in the architecture, and where terraces dominate the landscape. If you appreciate ancient villages, panoramic views and authenticity, we recommend you add Motovun to your itinerary. It’s one of the most beautiful villages in Istria!
If you don’t have a car, you can discover it on an organized tour:
6. Tasting truffles and other Istrian specialities
Gastronomy is an essential pillar in understanding Istria and immersing oneself in its cultural identity. The region is world-famous for its truffles, particularly around the villages of Motovun and Buzet, and discovering them is an experience not to be missed. During your stay you can sample typical dishes, such as fuži pasta topped with truffles, accompanied by local wines such as white malvasia or red teran. Local markets and konobas, traditional taverns, offer an immersion in the region’s culinary culture, as well as fresh cheeses, cured meats and seafood.
We understand that Istrian gastronomy is as much about discovering the products as it is about the setting in which you enjoy them: a platter on a terrace overlooking the sea or a meal in a medieval village creates a unique experience. Exploring Istria’s hinterland, coasts and small islands allows you to vary your tastes and experience the region’s culinary wealth in all its forms, while taking in its breathtaking scenery.
Here are a few interesting activities:
- Embark on a truffle-hunting adventure with a local family , including a 3-course brunch – See availability and make reservations
- Savor the flavors of Istria with a tasting of olive oil, local cheese and artisanal charcuterie – See availabilities and make reservations
7. Dive into the heart of green, more rural Istria
Behind the coast, Istria reveals a much greener, undulating face, ideal if you want to explore natural landscapes and traditional villages. The countryside is criss-crossed by winding roads linking picturesque villages. They offer pleasant stops to discover local architecture, art galleries and craft shops. We loved the variety of landscapes: forests, fields, vine-covered hills and truffle fields follow one another, creating magnificent panoramas.
If you like hiking or cycling, you’ll find plenty of routes to enjoy nature and spectacular panoramas. Along the way, you’ll be able to stop off in villages and discover the local gastronomy, often centered on local products such as olive oil, cured meats and wines. Exploring this part of Istria complements your visit to the coastal towns, while capturing the region’s rural identity and enjoying a quieter, more authentic atmosphere away from the busiest tourist areas.
8. Relax on Istria’s most beautiful beaches
The region is lined with pretty pebble beaches and rocky coves with clear turquoise waters. Among Istria’s most beautiful beaches, Rovinj and Rabac are pleasant, yet close to the towns and their infrastructure. Cape Kamenjak, at the southernmost tip of the peninsula, near Pula, is a veritable natural sanctuary where you can walk or cycle, discover secluded coves and enjoy the almost untamed nature.
Beautiful beaches are also to be found near larger towns such as Rijeka, or in the smaller towns of Kavran, Fazana, Rabac and Umag. Some beaches are well developed, with family areas and restaurants, while more remote ones, such as Premantura, offer a much more natural and unspoilt setting. The choice is yours!
9. Marvel at Opatija, the Riviera on the Gulf of Kvarner
Opatija, about 1 hour’s drive from the southern tip of Istria, is the historic seaside resort on the Gulf of Kvarner and a must if you want to discover Croatia from a different angle. Nicknamed the “Croatian Riviera”, the town was developed during the Austro-Hungarian era and still boasts magnificent Belle Époque villas, the pretty Parc Angiolina and a 12 km-long seafront promenade, the Lungomare. If you’d like to cool off, head for the Lido Beach, one of the most pleasant and trendy in the center. We fell in love with this little town, its history, its architecture, its refined atmosphere and its panoramic views of the sea and surrounding mountains.
The seafront terraces are ideal for sampling local specialties, while the adjacent side streets reveal cafés, boutiques and historic hotels. The architecture and gardens will take you back in time to Opatija’s days as a fashionable seaside resort. A little further from the center, the surrounding hills offer short hikes with spectacular views of the gulf and nearby islands. The town is also a strategic base for exploring the Kvarner islands of Krk and Cres, which can be reached in less than 1 hour by car or ferry.
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10. Visit Rijeka, the great Croatian port city
Rijeka is a must if you want to discover a more urban and industrial side of Croatia, in stark contrast to seaside Istria and its picturesque villages. The port city is dynamic and lively, with a historic center rich in Austro-Hungarian buildings, lively squares and a covered market where you can sample local produce. We particularly enjoyed strolling through the pedestrian streets, where the architecture is surprisingly diverse and unique!
Rijeka’s immediate surroundings also offer a wealth of discoveries. We discovered some beautiful beaches, such as Sablićevo Beach and Glavanovo Beach. Just a few minutes away, you can reach the surrounding hills for hikes offering panoramic views of the Kvarner Gulf. Rijeka is also a convenient starting point for visiting the Kvarner islands, which can be reached by ferry. A visit to Rijeka completes your exploration of the region. You’ll discover a fascinating history and architecture, and the opportunity to immerse yourself in an urban atmosphere different from that of seaside resorts, while enjoying beautiful beaches.
11. Stroll around the island of Krk
The island of Krk is the most accessible in the Gulf of Kvarner, linked to the mainland by a bridge, making it an ideal destination for enjoying a mix of beaches, villages and varied landscapes. We discovered Krk’s old town, with its cobbled streets, ramparts and lively port, where you can stop for a coffee or a tasting of local specialties. The island’s surroundings are just as enticing: several small beaches and coves are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, while coastal paths and inland roads offer panoramic views of the sea and surrounding hills.
Krk combines relaxation, exploration and outdoor activities: between hiking, biking and swimming, you can organize a varied holiday that’s easily accessible from Istria or Rijeka. The island offers a perfect balance between unspoilt nature, historical heritage and a warm Mediterranean atmosphere.
12. Take a trip to the heart of the incredible Plitvice Lakes
Located 3 hours’ drive from Pula and 2 hours from Rijeka, the Plitvice Lakes are not in Istria, but they are one of Croatia’s most emblematic landscapes. A succession of 16 lakes linked by waterfalls and wooden footbridges, nestled in a karst plateau with turquoise waters. We visited the park and quickly understood why it attracts visitors from all over the world. Its network of trails, spectacular panoramasand suspended paths above the lakes make it a unique experience you’ll never forget.
We were seduced by the diversity of the ecosystems, between rivers, freshwater lakes and temperate forests. The well-marked trails offer a range of options, from 2 hours to a full day. This is one of the best things to visit in Croatia!
Plitvice Lakes National Park is famous for being the country’s oldest and largest National Park. It was created in 1949 and recognized by UNESCO in 1979 for its unique natural process of travertine dam formation.
This exceptional site, nestled in a temperate forest of deciduous and coniferous trees, is an ecological and geological treasure trove that attracts visitors from all over the world. We were impressed by the park’s unspoilt beauty and the quality of its infrastructure, which allows you to enjoy nature to the full without damaging it. You’re sure to fall in love with this Croatian natural wonder.
Book your excursion to Plitvice Lakes now
13. Cycling and hiking in Istria
Istria lends itself perfectly to outdoor activities, and we saw plenty of cyclists! Not least thanks to the Parenzana, an old railroad line transformed into a cycle path and hiking trail that crosses the peninsula from east to west. But also thanks to its beautiful roads and numerous cycle paths.
We have experienced both cycling and hiking in the region, and have enjoyed the diversity of the landscapes and the facilities that make it easy to enjoy these 2 outdoor activities. Exploring Istria by bike or on foot allows you to discover less-frequented areas and admire the diversity of the territory, between forests, hills, agricultural valleys and coastal panoramas, offering a complete immersion in the region’s natural and cultural identity.
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14. Explore the coast by kayak or boat
Discovering Istria from the sea gives you access to landscapes you’ll never see from land. Limestone cliffs, sea caves, pine-covered islets and wild coves make up a spectacular coastline, ideal for exploring by kayak or boat. Around Rovinj, the archipelago of islands offers calm, translucent waters, perfect for paddling and swimming breaks in secluded coves. Around Pula and Cape Kamenjak, the caves and cliffs create a wilder atmosphere, much appreciated by those who enjoy rougher seascapes. Some excursions also offer the chance to spot dolphins, especially at the end of the day, when the sea becomes calmer and the low-angled light sublimates the coast.
- Best excursions from Pula – Find out more and book
- Best excursions from Poreč – Find out more and book
- Best excursions from Rovinj – Find out more and book
- Best excursions from Opatija – Find out more and book
Best things to do in Istria: other ideas
Beyond the main towns and sites, Istria is home to many places and experiences that deserve your attention if you wish to explore the region in greater depth.
Exploring around Istria
Istria is ideally situated for excursions to other parts of Croatia. You can reach the Plitvice Lakes, a veritable natural gem, in just a few hours’ drive for a day’s exploration amid lush waterfalls and forests. The Gulf of Kvarner and its islands, such as Krk and Cres, offer spectacular coastal scenery and a different atmosphere from the Istrian peninsula. To the east, the Učka Nature Park offers mountain hikes with panoramic views of the sea and surrounding hills. By exploring these nearby areas, you can combine natural discoveries, swimming, picturesque villages and historical heritage. These excursions complete your experience of Istria and give you a variety of landscapes. Your stay will alternate between coastal towns, hinterland and islands.
Off the beaten track
To discover authentic Istria, it’s best to get away from the classic tourist areas. Small country roads lead to little-known villages like Oprtalj or Kotli, where local life unfolds at a leisurely pace. You can visit farms and truffle fields, meet producers and sample local specialities. The hills and forests offer peaceful walks, far from the summer crowds, and spectacular panoramas of the peninsula. This more intimate approach to the region allows you to fully appreciate its cultural and natural diversity and richness. You’ll discover a quieter, more unspoilt Istria, in stark contrast to the bustle of the tourist towns.
Explore more cities
In addition to the must-see Pula, Poreč and Rovinj, there are several other towns that are well worth a visit. Novigrad, on the northwest coast, combines a fishing port with medieval streets. It’s an ideal seaside resort for families. Labin, in the east, offers a colorful historic center and views of the Kvarner Bay. Umag, close to the Slovenian border, is appreciated for its beaches, sports facilities and lively summer atmosphere. Further south, Medulin attracts visitors with its seaside ambience, long seaside promenades and easy access to several nearby beaches and coves, perfect for alternating relaxation and coastal discovery. Vrsar, a picturesque town with an intimate charm, seduces with its narrow streets, seaside terraces and sheltered harbor. Here, you can take a leisurely stroll and explore the small beaches and coves that surround the town.
Discover more islands
In addition to Brijuni and Krk, the Kvarner archipelago has many other islands to explore. Cres, with its cliffs and secluded beaches, and Lošinj, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque villages, offer walking, cycling, kayaking and swimming in unspoilt surroundings. You’ll be able to complete your maritime experience and enjoy unique coastal landscapes.
Discover more picturesque villages
Istria is dotted with hilltop villages and small towns, where stonework, narrow streets and panoramic views are the region’s hallmarks. Bale, Grožnjan, Hum or Oprtalj each offer their own unique character: handicrafts, art galleries, local gastronomy and views over the valley or the sea. These villages are well worth a stop to soak up the local atmosphere, away from the crowds of the most famous sites.
Natural parks and spectacular landscapes
Finally, Istria has several nature parks and protected areas to discover. Cape Kamenjak in the south offers coastal trails and secluded coves, while the Učka Nature Park offers mountain hikes with panoramic sea views. Inland hills, wine-growing valleys and unspoilt forests complete the offer, guaranteeing a trip rich in varied landscapes and immersion in nature. You can combine these sites with towns and villages for a complete experience of the peninsula.
A stopover in Venice
Although Istria is full of treasures to discover, if you’re staying for a long time, a stopover in Venice might be an original idea. Ferry connections from Pula, Rovinj, Porec or Umag make it quick and easy to reach the famous Italian city on the other side of the Adriatic, giving you the chance to change the atmosphere for a day or two. You can discover its canals, palaces and mythical squares, such as Saint Mark’s Square or the Doge’s Palace, before returning to Croatia. This getaway adds an extra cultural and romantic dimension to your trip, while remaining easy to organize from the Istrian coast.
Tip: we took the ferry from Venice to Croatia, as flights to Istria from France are less expensive than those to “La Serenissima”. So we flew to Venice, took the opportunity to visit this incredible city and then took the ferry to Pula. It’s simple, fast, pleasant and more environmentally friendly than flying again. Think about it! Book your ferry now.
Things to do when it rains
Istria has many rain-sheltered activities, so you can continue exploring the region without being limited by the weather. The towns’ museums and historic sites, such as the Museum of Contemporary Art in Pula or the art galleries in Rovinj and Grožnjan, offer an in-depth insight into local history and culture. The Euphrasian Basilica in Poreč can be visited whatever the weather, and its impressive mosaics are worth a visit even in the rain. Inland wine cellars and truffle farms offer covered tastings and tours, ideal for combining gastronomy and culture. You can also take advantage of the wellness centers and spas in Opatija and Rovinj, where massages and treatments are the perfect way to relax under shelter. Even covered markets and small craft stores can be a pleasant activity in bad weather, offering the chance to discover local produce.
Our tips for visiting Istria
To make the most of Istria, here are a few essential points.
- We strongly recommend renting a car, as many villages, beaches and coves are not accessible by public transport.
- The ideal time to visit is from April to June and from September to October, when the climate is pleasant and the number of visitors lower. Summer remains pleasant, but the coastal areas can be very busy, especially around Rovinj, Poreč and Pula.
- Finally, it’s a good idea to plan some of the longer excursions, such as the Plitvice Lakes, the Birjuni Islands or the Nature Parks, in advance, so you don’t miss out. Indeed, these places require the purchase of a ticket, and in high season, places sell out fast!
