{"id":2793,"date":"2026-01-14T09:21:57","date_gmt":"2026-01-14T09:21:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/croatialovers.com\/que-faire-istrie-visiter\/"},"modified":"2026-01-19T09:24:26","modified_gmt":"2026-01-19T09:24:26","slug":"best-things-to-do-istria-visit","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/croatialovers.com\/en\/best-things-to-do-istria-visit\/","title":{"rendered":"14 best things to do in Istria (+ photos)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Planning a trip to Croatia and wondering what to do in Istria<\/strong>? This peninsula north of the Adriatic offers incredible diversity: historic towns<\/strong>, turquoise beaches<\/strong> and coves, hilltop villages<\/strong>, lush green landscapes and unique gastronomic experiences. From Pula<\/strong> and its Roman amphitheater to Rovinj<\/strong> and its colorful alleyways, via the Brijuni islands<\/strong>, the beaches of the coast and the more rural hinterland, Istria can be discovered through a wide variety of places and activities<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n

Here’s our selection of 14 must-see places and activities in Istria<\/strong>, with our own photos to help you choose!<\/p>\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n

This opinion is completely independent<\/strong>, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.<\/p>\n\n

1. Visit Pula and its Roman amphitheatre<\/h2>\n\n
\"Pula,<\/figure>\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n

Book your guided tour of Pula now<\/a><\/p>\n\n

\"Pula,<\/figure>\n\n

But there’s more to Pula than its ancient remains: the port and quayside are bustling with life, with caf\u00e9s 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. <\/p>\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n

2. Discover Pore\u010d and its Euphrasian Basilica (UNESCO)<\/h2>\n\n
\"Poreč,<\/figure>\n\n

Pore\u010d 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. <\/p>\n\n

\"Euphrasian
Euphrasian Basilica of Pore\u010d<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n

The area around Pore\u010d 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. <\/p>\n\n

3. Setting sail for the Brijuni Islands<\/h2>\n\n
\"Brijuni<\/figure>\n\n

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. <\/p>\n\n

\"Brijuni<\/figure>\n\n

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. <\/p>\n\n

Take a boat trip through the Brijuni archipelago with dolphin watching – find out more and book<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n

\n
\n
\n
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING YOUR CAR AT \nCroatia<\/span><\/h5>\n\n\n\n