{"id":3307,"date":"2026-05-07T14:33:49","date_gmt":"2026-05-07T14:33:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/croatialovers.com\/plus-belles-villes-istrie-villages\/"},"modified":"2026-05-07T15:37:44","modified_gmt":"2026-05-07T15:37:44","slug":"best-towns-istria-villages","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/croatialovers.com\/en\/best-towns-istria-villages\/","title":{"rendered":"15 most beautiful towns (and villages) in Istria"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Situated at the north-western tip of Croatia, the Istrian peninsula is captivating for the diversity of its landscapes and heritage. In this article, we share our selection of <strong>Istria&#8217;s most beautiful towns and villages<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n<p><em>Note: This article talks about towns and villages to visit. If you&#8217;d like to discover the best towns to stay in Istria, check out our other article (coming soon).<\/em><\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/croatialovers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/best-cities-istria-villages.jpg\" alt=\"most beautiful cities istria villages\" class=\"wp-image-3298\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<p>This opinion is completely <strong>independent<\/strong>, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Most beautiful towns and villages in Istria: summary + Map<\/h2>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Map<\/h3>\n\n<p>Istria offers a beautiful variety of coastal towns and villages perched in the hinterland, each with its own character.<br\/>Here&#8217;s the map with our top 15 places to visit:<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/croatialovers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/map-best-cities-istria-villages.jpg\" alt=\"map most beautiful cities istria villages\" class=\"wp-image-3289\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Which towns in Istria to visit? Quick response<\/strong>:<\/h3>\n\n<p>If you only need to visit 4, to get an overview of the different styles:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Rovinj (romantic coastal town)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pula (Roman heritage)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Motovun (inland hilltop village)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pore\u010d (Byzantine mosaics)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Rovinj<\/h2>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Croatia\/Istrie-Best-of\/i-RV2zLG5\/0\/MFgr2VRfpc6wpc3FKZPXphrBMg3TLFfK5TVcJchZR\/L\/istrie%20-%20rovinj-1-L.jpg\" alt=\"view of Rovinj's old town from the port\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why we love it<\/h3>\n\n<p>Rovinj is undoubtedly Istria&#8217;s most photogenic town. We were seduced by its cobbled streets that climb up to the church of St. Euph\u00e9mie, whose steeple dominates the entire peninsula. The colorful houses are reflected in the waters of the harbor, and the atmosphere is reminiscent of Italian fishing villages.    <\/p>\n\n<p>In the evening, the golden light that bathes the facades creates a particularly pleasant atmosphere. We recommend spending at least a full day here to enjoy the old town and nearby beaches. <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Croatia\/Istrie-Best-of\/i-P5ZBQWJ\/0\/LvN399V7gbBTs4sbB3sbrpLVmHQht9bLR7xBJ32Ng\/L\/istrie%20-%20rovinj-2-L.jpg\" alt=\"colorful alleys of Rovinj Istria\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Attractions<\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Sainte-Euph\u00e9mie church and its 60m steeple, the town&#8217;s highest point<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The port and narrow streets of the old town, ideal for getting lost without an itinerary<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The archipelago of the Rovinj islands, accessible by water cab for calm bathing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Punta Corrente forest park (Zlatni Rt), perfect for a seaside stroll<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The fish market and the market in Valdibora square to discover local produce<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Access<\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>West coast of Istria<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>From Pula = 40min<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>From Pore\u010d = 35min<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>From Trieste (Italy) = 1h40<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<div style=\"margin-top:8%;margin-bottom:8%\" class=\"wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container box gb-block-container\"><div class=\"gb-container-inside\"><div class=\"gb-container-content\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns inverse box_planif is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column texte_planif is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:58%\">\n<h5 class=\"titre_box\">OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING YOUR CAR AT <span class=\"titre_box_manuscrit\">\nCroatia<\/span><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<ul style=\"font-size:14px\" class=\"wp-block-list liste_voiture\">\n<li>Compare prices on our preferred platform: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.discovercars.com\/en\/croatia?a_aid=zigzag&amp;chan=croatia\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">DiscoverCars<\/a> &#8211; one of the best rated sites.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Choose a <strong>car that is powerful enough <\/strong>(the roads are steep) but <strong>compact<\/strong> (some passages are narrow).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>There is a lot of demand, <strong>book it early<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column planif-radius-3 is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:42%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Croatia\/Paklenica\/Rando-entr&#xE9;e-1\/i-Tzg4V6J\/0\/KXmXjZbtGwDbJrgcqktnpnrkcSSch3cnNBDJHcqWg\/S\/paklenica%20parc%20enter%201%20and%20hike-004-S.jpg\" alt=\"car in Croatia\" title=\"\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns planif_bouton is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:50%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-white-color has-text-color has-custom-font-size wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.discovercars.com\/en\/croatia?a_aid=zigzag&amp;chan=croatia\" style=\"border-radius:4px;font-size:14px\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">See the cars<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-2851\" style=\"width: 16px;\" src=\"https:\/\/provencelovers.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/ArrowRight.webp\" alt=\"\"\/><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:50%\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\" style=\"font-size:14px\"><strong>See our tips<\/strong> (coming soon)<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Pula<\/h2>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Croatia\/Pula\/Divers-pratique\/i-4n4JJrM\/0\/Kjpx7jBXBLsV5vfk7D2Nq8L523cjTbdkjXZxc2Fxx\/L\/pula%20pratic-4-L.jpg\" alt=\"Roman amphitheatre of Pula Istria\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why we love it<\/h3>\n\n<p>Pula is the largest city in Istria and the one with the best-preserved Roman heritage in Croatia. Its amphitheatre, built in the 1st century, is the sixth largest in the world and remains the region&#8217;s most emblematic monument. We enjoyed the contrast between the ancient remains and the bustling urban life of the city center.    <\/p>\n\n<p>Beyond the ruins, Pula is also a lively port town with good seafood restaurants and beaches within walking distance. Pula deserves at least half a day for its Roman sites. But it&#8217;s also rich in museums, and you can easily spend a week here.  <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Croatia\/Istrie-Best-of\/i-tkrX5F6\/0\/Lt67FhBn46xg6FmZdVTfpMsHZH9nrzJJD2ZcWrLFS\/L\/istrie%20-%20pula-L.jpg\" alt=\"temple of Augustus in Pula Istria\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Attractions<\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The remarkably well-preserved Roman amphitheatre (Arena), which still hosts concerts in summer.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The 1st-century Temple of Augustus in the Forum<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The Sergii triumphal arch, a monumental gateway from the 1st century BC.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fort Ka\u0161tel, offering a panoramic view of the city and home to the Historical and Maritime Museum of Istria<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The beaches of Verudela and Brijuni National Park, accessible by boat from the port<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Access<\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Southern tip of the Istrian peninsula<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>From Rovinj = 40min<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>From Rijeka = 1h30<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>From Zagreb = 3h<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Pore\u010d<\/h2>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Croatia\/Istrie-Best-of\/i-QRKtTJW\/0\/MbxJt2Sc3FvfrPW5K439psbQCd2vH28jqDcmtTftN\/L\/istrie%20-%20porec-1-L.jpg\" alt=\"charming alley in Porec\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why we love it<\/h3>\n\n<p>Pore\u010d owes its fame to the Euphrasian Basilica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997 for its exceptional 6th-century Byzantine mosaics. We found the old town compact and pleasant to explore, structured according to the original Roman plan whose two main axes can still be seen: the Decumanus and the Cardo Maximus.   <\/p>\n\n<p>Apart from the historic center, the seaside resort offers numerous beaches and a coastal promenade running south along the sea. Pore\u010d is also a good starting point for exploring inland villages. <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Croatia\/Istrie-Best-of\/i-CFNs3r4\/0\/MJQbhKV2JjKzJSKjzdtT3NThW9r435sj7pk4mVTM8\/L\/istrie%20-%20porec-2-L.jpg\" alt=\"Euphrasian Basilica Pore&#x10D;\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Attractions<\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The Euphrasian Basilica and its gilded 6th-century mosaics, a UNESCO world heritage site<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The Decumanus, the main Roman street lined with Venetian palaces and boutiques<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Marafor Square, a former Roman forum with remains of temples<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The coastal promenade to \u00cele Saint-Nicolas, visible from the waterfront<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The Baredine caves, 8km to the north-east, for an original underground tour<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Access<\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>West coast of Istria, north of Rovinj<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>From Rovinj = 35min<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>From Pula = 55min<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>From Trieste (Italy) = 1h15<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Motovun<\/h2>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Croatia\/MOTOVUN\/i-MF4ZFMV\/1\/MfRT58Vp3Cc47bdJcP6H5fw3NgnSLF6SSDPPzLbsm\/L\/village%20motovun%20croatie-003-L.jpg\" alt=\"hilltop village of Motovun Istria\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why we love it<\/h3>\n\n<p>Motovun is Istria&#8217;s most famous hilltop village, and rightly so. Set atop a hill 277m above sea level, it overlooks the Mirna valley, famous for its white and black truffles.   <\/p>\n\n<p>We were particularly impressed by the panoramic view from the ramparts: a patchwork of vineyards, olive groves and forests stretching as far as the eye can see. but we loved it all. The view as you approach the village, the characterful little streets, the ramparts&#8230;    <\/p>\n\n<p>Motovun can be visited in 1 to 2 hours.<br\/>In July, the Motovun Film Festival transforms the main square into an open-air cinema.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Croatia\/MOTOVUN\/i-MQCNHj4\/0\/NhXtFB2T2LjQDtX2HpLLX7F9ZKLjL2fVTFZgpNjj6\/L\/village%20motovun%20croatie-016-L.jpg\" alt=\"Motovun alley\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Attractions<\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The medieval ramparts and the circular promenade offering a 360\u00b0 panorama of the Mirna valley<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Piazza Andrea Antico, the heart of the village surrounded by Venetian buildings<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Truffle tasting in local restaurants and stores: Istrian truffles are renowned throughout Europe.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The Motovun Film Festival in July, one of Croatia&#8217;s most original film festivals.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hiking trails in the Motovun forest below the village<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/croatialovers.com\/en\/things-to-do-village-motovun-green-istria-visit\/\" type=\"post\" id=\"2593\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">See all Motovun attractions<em>.<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Access<\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Central Istria, in the Mirna Valley<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>From Pore\u010d = 30min<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>From Rovinj = 45min<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>From Pula = 1h<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The climb from the parking lot below takes about 10 minutes on foot. In summer, parking spaces fill up quickly, so it&#8217;s best to arrive in the morning. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Vrsar<\/h2>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Croatia\/Istria\/Vrsar\/Town\/i-2MgmXj4\/0\/LPQDKzGzb77brRzH89WFSpXHjdpTjRxSh73NxXDR4\/L\/Vrsar_town_1-L.jpg\" alt=\"port of Vrsar seen from the Istrian hillside\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why we love it<\/h3>\n\n<p>Vrsar is a small coastal town, less well known than its neighbors, which is precisely what makes it so charming. Perched on a hill overlooking a quiet harbor, it has retained its authentic character. We found a calm atmosphere here, far from the tourist crowds of Rovinj or Pore\u010d.    <\/p>\n\n<p>The sculptor Du\u0161an D\u017eamonja set up his sculpture park here, and Giacomo Casanova mentions the town in his memoirs. The archipelago of 18 islets opposite Vrsar is also an ideal playground for kayaking. <\/p>\n\n<p>The village itself can be discovered in an hour or two, but you can stay longer if you want to enjoy the beaches.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Croatia\/Istria\/Vrsar\/Town\/i-qHb48xV\/0\/NgVPpGWmVDxCnHZNGfP839q6mSG5SL9VSBTB5gRKH\/L\/Vrsar_town_2-L.jpg\" alt=\"old town of Vrsar Istria\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Attractions<\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The old town perched on a hill, with narrow streets leading down to the port<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Du\u0161an D\u017eamonja Sculpture Park, an open-air collection of monumental works of art<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The Vrsar archipelago (18 islets), to explore by kayak or boat<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The 12th-century Romanesque church of Sainte-Marie-de-la-Mer (Sveta Marija od Mora)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Limski Kanal, a 10km fjord accessible by boat from Vrsar<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Access<\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>West coast of Istria, between Rovinj and Pore\u010d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>From Rovinj = 15min<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>From Pore\u010d = 20min<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>From Pula = 45min<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Novigrad<\/h2>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Croatia\/Istria\/Extra\/i-bnM4sRf\/0\/KHFGb7M4HXvT3pkMHH2gSrCggh575Z8zWmLhSfx7Z\/L\/Novigrad_DP_135388378_XL-L.jpg\" alt=\"port and colorful houses of Novigrad Istria\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why we love it<\/h3>\n\n<p>Novigrad is a small port town with the feel of a fishing village. Less touristy than its neighbors, it appealed to us for its authenticity and relaxed pace. We appreciated the quality of its seafood restaurants, reputed to be among the best on the coast.    <\/p>\n\n<p>The compact, well-preserved old walled town can be explored in an hour. The seafront offers beautiful sea views. The town also hosts annual gastronomic festivals dedicated to local produce: truffles, wild asparagus and shellfish.  <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Croatia\/Istria\/Extra\/i-bLphRQh\/0\/MvTf8XCvtCD2PdgWczf7WZ5rsK9TDng8mWjQ9tWkp\/L\/Novigrad_DP_284303844_XL-L.jpg\" alt=\"colorful houses in Novigrad Istria\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Attractions<\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The fortified old town, surrounded by partly preserved ramparts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Saint-P\u00e9lage parish church and its 18th-century bell tower<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The Lapidarium Museum, dedicated to stone sculpture from Antiquity to the Middle Ages<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The fishing port and its promenade, to watch the return of the boats at the end of the day<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The beaches to the south of the city, including Karpinjan, well equipped for families<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Access<\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Northwest coast of Istria, between Umag and Porec<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>From Porec = 15min<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>From Umag = 20min<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>From Rovinj = 40min<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<div style=\"background-color:#fefefe;margin-top:6%;margin-bottom:6%\" class=\"wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container box gb-block-container\"><div class=\"gb-container-inside\"><div class=\"gb-container-content\" style=\"max-width:700px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns inverse is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column texte_planif is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:58%\">\n<h5 class=\"titre_box\">A LITTLE MORE <span class=\"titre_box_manuscrit\">patience<\/span><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p style=\"font-size:14px\">All the photos, maps, information, good addresses to make <strong>your stay in Provence<\/strong> a success, will <strong>soon be gathered<\/strong> in a single ebook!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p style=\"font-size:14px\">If you&#8217;d like to be notified when our <strong>Madeira guide<\/strong> is published, please subscribe:<\/p>\n\n\n<script>\nvar gform;gform||(document.addEventListener(\"gform_main_scripts_loaded\",function(){gform.scriptsLoaded=!0}),document.addEventListener(\"gform\/theme\/scripts_loaded\",function(){gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0}),window.addEventListener(\"DOMContentLoaded\",function(){gform.domLoaded=!0}),gform={domLoaded:!1,scriptsLoaded:!1,themeScriptsLoaded:!1,isFormEditor:()=>\"function\"==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(\"The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 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200 );        if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) {            const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => {                mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => {                    if ( mutation.type === 'attributes' && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) {                        debouncedTriggerPostRender();                        observer.disconnect();                    }                });            });            observer.observe( document.body, {                attributes: true,                childList: false,                subtree: true,                attributeFilter: [ 'style', 'class' ],            });        } else {            triggerPostRender();        }    } );} );\n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:42%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container ebook-radius-waitlist gb-block-container\"><div class=\"gb-container-inside\"><div class=\"gb-container-content\"><div class=\"wp-block-image ebook-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/ebooks_CorseNormandie_FR.png\" alt=\"Box Ebook Corsica FR\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Gro\u017enjan<\/h2>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Croatia\/Istria\/Extra\/i-jGdm6XS\/0\/MjHCQPCTDCgGx595F4ptQdBvzSnPNK76X4QwMVFVf\/L\/Groznjan_1-L.jpg\" alt=\"artists' village of Gro&#x17E;njan Istria\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why we love it<\/h3>\n\n<p>Gro\u017enjan is a hilltop village known as the &#8220;town of artists&#8221;. Abandoned in the 1960s, it has been revitalized by musicians and painters who have set up studios here. We found the narrow streets very charming. You&#8217;ll also find art galleries and remarkable views over the green hills. In summer, the village hosts open-air jazz concerts.    <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Croatia\/Istria\/Extra\/i-mRhh5hh\/0\/MgxnGgs3PrCrcvHLcL3LbSnFZgTP33R5jt4GFkCBw\/L\/Groznjan_2-L.jpg\" alt=\"Gro&#x17E;njan alley\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Attractions<\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>The city walls and gates:<\/strong> a medieval enclosure offering spectacular views over the Mirna valley.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Art galleries and studios:<\/strong> more than 20 galleries by local artists nestled in the cobblestone streets.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Saints-Vitus-et-Modeste parish church:<\/strong> a fine Baroque edifice with an imposing bell tower.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Parenzana:<\/strong> the old railroad line has been transformed into a hiking and mountain-biking trail that passes right at the foot of the village.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Access<\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Location:<\/strong> Northern Istria, perched on a hill inland from the Slovenian border<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>From Umag:<\/strong> 25 min<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>From Pore\u010d:<\/strong> 35 min<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>From Pula:<\/strong> 1h<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. Labin<\/h2>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Croatia\/Istria\/Extra\/i-JxQDh7j\/0\/LmjTxwSTRRxnMC3hp2JVcMxwG4PGh4QSx96VzMxJN\/L\/Labin_2-L.jpg\" alt=\"old town of Labin perched on a hill Istria\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why we love it<\/h3>\n\n<p>Labin is a town perched on the east coast of Istria, offering a different perspective on the region. Its historic medieval center overlooks the bay of Rabac, a seaside resort below. We enjoyed strolling through the restored streets of old Labin, where former mining areas have been transformed into art galleries. The Mus\u00e9e de la Ville traces the mining and cultural history of this charming town.   <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Croatia\/Istria\/Extra\/i-LCpLt5N\/0\/K2jrmmXbZvbwV5m66DGH2r2NQDvddSs2ZksTrkmr5\/L\/Labin_1-L.jpg\" alt=\"colorful Labin houses\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Attractions<\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>The medieval old town:<\/strong> a maze of colorful alleyways set on a hill overlooking the sea.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Labin National Museum:<\/strong> famous for its faithful recreation of a coal mine in the basement.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Palazzo Battiala-Lazzarini<\/strong>: a Baroque building with red facades that are emblematic of the city.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Fortica viewpoint<\/strong>: offers a breathtaking view of the seaside resort of Rabac and the island of Cres.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Dubrova Sculpture Park:<\/strong> an open-air museum at the entrance to the town with over 90 contemporary works.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Access<\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Location:<\/strong> South-east coast of Istria, overlooking the seaside resort of Rabac.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>From Pula:<\/strong> 45 min<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>From Rijeka:<\/strong> 1h00<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>From Rabac (the coast):<\/strong> 5 min.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">9. Umag<\/h2>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Croatia\/Istria\/Extra\/i-hwnp88d\/0\/Mgs2JVGKjt37Pjk9sM2d7JpGkg3VpwGVgsRFfPBP4\/L\/Umag_1-L.jpg\" alt=\"old town of Umag on the Istrian coast\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why we love it<\/h3>\n\n<p>Umag is the first town you encounter when entering Istria from Slovenia and Italy. Less crowded than Rovinj or Pore\u010d, it offers a compact old center on a peninsula that juts out into the Adriatic.   <\/p>\n\n<p>We enjoyed strolling through the quiet streets and enjoying the view of the Italian coast on a clear day. The town is also known for its family-friendly beaches. It&#8217;s a good starting point for exploring northern Istria. Umag is a town that can be visited in a few hours, but the surrounding area is well worth spending more time in.   <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Croatia\/Istria\/Extra\/i-LHW5zHZ\/0\/KNZkH7n8dHTFSFfSn897NfpLScjGHKNVqpqMCxdnN\/L\/Umag_2-L.jpg\" alt=\"church of Umag Istria\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Attractions<\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The old town on the peninsula, with its partly preserved ramparts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The Assumption parish church and its Venetian bell tower<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The Museum of the City of Umag, to understand local history since Antiquity<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The beaches of Laguna Stella Maris, among the best equipped in northern Istria<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Inland wine and olive oil routes, easily accessible from the city<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Access<\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>North-western tip of Istria, on the Slovenian border<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>From Pore\u010d = 35min<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>From Trieste (Italy) = 50min<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>From Pula = 1h15<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">10. Opatija (on the peninsula)<\/h2>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Croatia\/Opatija\/Plage-du-Lido\/i-qQXvVfx\/0\/Ngd7QzX94GPV45fbx6SWBcxnwtZvJCgSm6xfchnTF\/L\/lido%20beach%20opatija%20-04-L.jpg\" alt=\"seafront and Belle &#xC9;poque villas in Opatija\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why we love it<\/h3>\n\n<p>Opatija is not technically located in the Istria region, but geographically it is on the neighboring peninsula in the Gulf of Kvarner. We&#8217;ve included it in this selection because it&#8217;s in the immediate vicinity and makes for an interesting detour. <\/p>\n\n<p>  Once a seaside resort for the Austro-Hungarian aristocracy, the town has preserved its sumptuous Belle \u00c9poque villas and subtropical gardens. We enjoyed the Lungomare, a 12km coastal promenade that runs along the sea between Volosko and Lovran. The atmosphere is more elegant and relaxed than on the Istrian coast.  <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Croatia\/Opatija\/Plage-du-Lido\/i-rt5M6vW\/0\/MXnDkjM3fSVrqt4rdLP86sDhH4JF88pTLgqsXNrzK\/L\/lido%20beach%20opatija%20-22-L.jpg\" alt=\"Lido Beach\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Attractions<\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The Lungomare, a 12km coastal promenade linking Volosko to Lovran<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Angiolina Park and Villa Angiolina, cradle of tourism on the Croatian Riviera<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The statue of La Jeune Fille \u00e0 la Mouette, symbol of the city on the waterfront<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The fishing village of Volosko, renowned for its gourmet restaurants<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The Church of St. James and the Villa Angiolina park, home to exotic plant species<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Access<\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Kvarner Gulf, east of the Istrian peninsula<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>From Rijeka = 20min<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>From Pula = 1h30<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>From Zagreb = 2h30<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<div style=\"background-color:#ffffff;margin-top:8%;margin-bottom:8%\" class=\"wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container box gb-block-container\"><div class=\"gb-container-inside\"><div class=\"gb-container-content\" style=\"max-width:700px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile texte_planif has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\" style=\"background-color:#f5a39040\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column img_icone is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\"><div class=\"wp-block-image image_icone\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/croatialovers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/croatia-plane.png\" alt=\"croatia plane\" class=\"wp-image-2797\" style=\"object-fit:cover;width:100px;height:100px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/croatialovers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/croatia-plane.png 400w, https:\/\/croatialovers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/croatia-plane-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/croatialovers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/croatia-plane-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/croatialovers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/croatia-plane-75x75.png 75w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center paragraphe_une is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:90%\">\n<p style=\"font-size:16px\">It&#8217;s time to book!<br\/><a href=\"https:\/\/skyscanner.pxf.io\/dONaXy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\"><strong>Compare everything:<\/strong> companies, prices, schedules and availability.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5 other towns and villages to discover<\/h2>\n\n<p>And if you still have time, we also recommend the following towns and villages.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">11. Pazin<\/h3>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Croatia\/Istria\/Extra\/i-n9VC9jQ\/0\/LSWPDmBpzrx8ktpGB4GnZBtmw5CMgr5jdzNp7T752\/L\/Pazin-L.jpg\" alt=\"Pazin church\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<p>Pazin is the administrative capital of Istria, located in the geographical center of the peninsula. Its main attraction is the Ka\u0161tel, an imposing medieval castle overlooking a deep chasm. In fact, it inspired Jules Verne to write his novel <em>Mathias Sandorf<\/em>. The Pazin\u010dica chasm can be visited via a path. We found the visit to the castle and the ethnographic museum instructive.    <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">12. Fa\u017eana<\/h3>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Croatia\/Istria\/Extra\/i-vMJSGXr\/0\/M5FCHM6P7KLwmGTRbT9kDBXfzcdh3vJKMQjbx56z5\/L\/Fazana_1-L.jpg\" alt=\"colorful port of Fa&#x17E;ana facing the Brijuni islands\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<p>Fa\u017eana is a small fishing port facing the Brijuni Islands, for which it is the main embarkation point. The village has preserved its colorful waterfront and relaxed atmosphere. We enjoyed the restaurants serving fish and grilled sardines on the harbor, a local specialty.  <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">13. Vodnjan<\/h3>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Croatia\/Istria\/Extra\/i-dLsbFRZ\/0\/MDqSpj2wmKZznSm4qhpPpPNrq5Wm3SkCdnrJV8qcX\/L\/Vodnjan_1-L.jpg\" alt=\"historic center of Vodnjan Istria\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<p>Vodnjan is notable for its Church of St. Blaise, whose 62m steeple is the highest in Istria. The interior houses relics and mummified bodies of saints, a curiosity unique in the region. We also enjoyed the artisanal oil mills around the town, which produce some of the best olive oil in Croatia.  <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">14. Beram<\/h3>\n\n<p>Beram is a small inland village whose reputation rests on the chapel of Sveta Marija na \u0160krilinah. The 15th-century frescoes that adorn the interior, including the famous Danse Macabre, are among the best-preserved works of medieval art in Croatia. We recommend checking opening times before visiting, as access may require contacting the janitor.  <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">15. Hum<\/h3>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Croatia\/Istria\/Extra\/i-Xm9Fzfb\/0\/MHKVsgN2vqNbhMVKNv5jv2dzjqTdn7xJBQ8Xb7Nj2\/L\/Hum-L.jpg\" alt=\"Village Hum\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<p>The village is well worth a visit for its narrow medieval streets and stone buildings. We enjoyed tasting biska, a local brandy scented with mistletoe. <\/p>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container box_auteur_voyage gb-block-container\"><div class=\"gb-container-inside\"><div class=\"gb-container-content\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large img_auteur_voyage img_provisoire\"><a href=\"https:\/\/normandielovers.fr\/morgane-mazelier\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Region-Lovers\/Equipe\/i-kx84ZJX\/0\/FgG3Lb9Xx2HBStC6R3PNXZZNj2Vvkx9vZBxQFL7NJ\/L\/morgane-L.jpg\" alt=\"\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"titre_auteur_voyage\"><span>SHE MADE THE TRIP \n <\/span><span class=\"titre_box_manuscrit\">Morgane<\/span><\/h5>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container box_auteur_voyage gb-block-container\"><div class=\"gb-container-inside\"><div class=\"gb-container-content\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large img_auteur_voyage img_provisoire\"><a href=\"https:\/\/normandielovers.fr\/claire-robinson\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Region-Lovers\/Equipe\/i-nsNF6C6\/0\/Cs2F5n96pkt9xFD9D3SVqmQspMhrKgN75nHgBqmjG\/L\/Claire-L.png\" alt=\"\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"titre_auteur_voyage\"><span>SHE WROTE THE ARTICLE\n <\/span><span class=\"titre_box_manuscrit\">Claire<\/span><\/h5>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Situated at the north-western tip of Croatia, the Istrian peninsula is captivating for the diversity of its landscapes and heritage. In this article, we share our selection of Istria&#8217;s most beautiful towns and villages. Note: This article talks about towns and villages to visit. If you&#8217;d like to discover the best towns to stay in [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":3301,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[103],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-3307","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-istria","8":"entry"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.5 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>15 most beautiful towns (and villages) in Istria - Croatia Lovers<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Our selection of the most beautiful towns in Istria: tips and photos for visiting Rovinj, Pula, Pore\u010d, Motovun...\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/croatialovers.com\/en\/best-towns-istria-villages\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"15 most beautiful towns (and villages) in Istria - Croatia Lovers\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Our selection of the most beautiful towns in Istria: tips and photos for visiting Rovinj, Pula, Pore\u010d, Motovun...\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/croatialovers.com\/en\/best-towns-istria-villages\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Croatia Lovers\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-05-07T14:33:49+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-05-07T15:37:44+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/croatialovers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/best-cities-istria-villages.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"800\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"600\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Claire\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Claire\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"11 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/croatialovers.com\\\/en\\\/best-towns-istria-villages\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/croatialovers.com\\\/en\\\/best-towns-istria-villages\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Claire\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/croatialovers.com\\\/en\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/45858a7b241e57416d6daba143117890\"},\"headline\":\"15 most beautiful towns (and villages) in Istria\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-07T14:33:49+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-07T15:37:44+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/croatialovers.com\\\/en\\\/best-towns-istria-villages\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":2184,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/croatialovers.com\\\/en\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/croatialovers.com\\\/en\\\/best-towns-istria-villages\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/croatialovers.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/05\\\/best-cities-istria-villages.jpg\",\"articleSection\":[\"Istria\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/croatialovers.com\\\/en\\\/best-towns-istria-villages\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/croatialovers.com\\\/en\\\/best-towns-istria-villages\\\/\",\"name\":\"15 most beautiful towns (and villages) in Istria - 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