Explore Istria

Guide to Istria: Places to Visit, See, Experience, Drink, and Eat

Istria, the largest peninsula in the Adriatic Sea, enchants visitors with its blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and rich culinary offerings. Its ancient towns, beautiful beaches, vineyards, and olive groves offer a true Mediterranean experience.

Must-Visit Towns

Pula

The largest city in Istria, famous for its magnificent Roman amphitheater, the Arena, one of the best-preserved Roman structures in the world. In Pula, you can also explore the Temple of Augustus, the Arch of the Sergii, and numerous museums filled with Roman artifacts.

Rovinj

A picturesque town on the western coast of Istria. Stroll through the old town, enjoy the beautiful views from St. Euphemia’s Church, and relax by the sea at one of the many romantic restaurants and cafés.

Poreč

Known for historical sites like the Euphrasian Basilica, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Poreč also offers popular beaches, interesting museums, and a vibrant atmosphere.

Photo by detait on Unsplash - Arena Pula

Apartments Aria and Ginger in the center of Poreč and near the sea, Istria - Croatia Poreč

Motovun

A hilltop town known for its medieval walls and views over the Mirna River valley. It’s also a truffle-hunting region and home to the popular Motovun Film Festival.

Grožnjan

A town of artists, filled with galleries and studios. In the summer, it becomes a cultural hub with concerts, exhibitions, and festivals.

Labin

Known for its mining history, this town features interesting museums, art galleries, and spectacular views of Rabac and Kvarner Bay.

Photo byEmin Huric on Unsplash - Rovinj

Apartments Aria and Ginger in the center of Poreč and near the sea, Istria - Croatia Poreč
Natural Wonders, Apartments Aria and Ginger in the center of Poreč and near the sea, Istria - Croatia Poreč
Natural Wonders, Apartments Aria and Ginger in the center of Poreč and near the sea, Istria - Croatia Poreč Natural Wonders, Apartments Aria and Ginger in the center of Poreč and near the sea, Istria - Croatia Poreč More photos

Natural Wonders

  • Brijuni – A national park made up of 14 islands, known for pristine nature, historical remains, and a safari park. Guided tours from Fažana allow visitors to explore these stunning islands.
  • Cape Kamenjak – South of Premantura, this protected natural park has beautiful rocky beaches, crystal-clear sea, and numerous cycling and walking trails.
  • Lim Bay – A beautiful sea inlet between Rovinj and Vrsar, ideal for boat trips, swimming, and enjoying seafood delicacies like freshly farmed oysters.
  • Učka – This mountain range divides Istria from the rest of Croatia, offering numerous hiking trails, cycling routes, and breathtaking viewpoints. The peak, Vojak, offers views of Kvarner Bay, Istria, and parts of Slovenia.


Photo by Anđela Knez on Unsplash - Kamenjak

Photo by Inja Pavlić on Unsplash - Limski kanal

Culinary Delights, Apartments Aria and Ginger in the center of Poreč and near the sea, Istria - Croatia Poreč
Culinary Delights, Apartments Aria and Ginger in the center of Poreč and near the sea, Istria - Croatia Poreč Culinary Delights, Apartments Aria and Ginger in the center of Poreč and near the sea, Istria - Croatia Poreč More photos

Culinary Delights

  • Truffles – Both white and black truffles are a delicacy in Istria. Truffle hunting is popular in the forests around Buzet and Motovun, and many regional restaurants offer dishes featuring these prized ingredients, such as fuži (traditional Istrian pasta) with truffles.
  • Olive Oil – Istria is known for high-quality olive oil, frequently awarded at international competitions. Visiting olive groves and tasting the oil provides insight into the production process and variety of flavors.
  • Wine – The region is famous for wines like Malvasia and Teran. Many wineries around Rovinj, Motovun, and Buje offer wine tastings and guided tours of their vineyards.
  • Seafood – Fresh fish, scampi, mussels, and shellfish are a staple along the coast. The best seafood restaurants can be found in Rovinj, Poreč, and Pula.
  • Prosciutto and Cheese – Istrian prosciutto is air-dried in the bora wind and often served with local sheep cheese and homemade bread, making for a perfect appetizer.


Photo by Petar Lazarevic on Unsplash

Photo by CHUTTERSNAP on Unsplash

Image by Serge Uzan from Pixabay

Image by Steve Buissinne from Pixabay

Photo by Rachel Martin on Unsplash

Activities and Adventures, Apartments Aria and Ginger in the center of Poreč and near the sea, Istria - Croatia Poreč
Activities and Adventures, Apartments Aria and Ginger in the center of Poreč and near the sea, Istria - Croatia Poreč Activities and Adventures, Apartments Aria and Ginger in the center of Poreč and near the sea, Istria - Croatia Poreč More photos

Activities and Adventures

  • Cycling – The Parenzana, a former narrow-gauge railway connecting Trieste to Poreč, is now a cycling trail passing through vineyards, olive groves, and charming towns.
  • Diving – The underwater world of Istria offers attractive diving spots with shipwrecks, such as the "Baron Gautsch" wreck near Rovinj, and rich marine life.
  • Hiking – Učka offers many trails leading to peaks with stunning panoramic views. The route from Poklon to Vojak peak is especially popular with hikers.
  • Truffle Hunting – A unique adventure in the Motovun area, where you can join truffle hunters and their dogs for a hunt.
  • Paddling and Kayaking – Cape Kamenjak, Lim Bay, and the coves around Rovinj are perfect for kayaking along the coast and exploring hidden bays.


Photo by Santiago Pazos Bordon on Unsplash

Photo by Francisco Jesús Navarro Hernández on Unsplash

Events and Festivals

  • Motovun Film Festival – Held every July in Motovun, it attracts film enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing independent and art films.
  • Pula Film Festival – The oldest film festival in Croatia, held in the Pula Arena, featuring Croatian and international films.
  • Rovinj Photodays – A photography festival with exhibitions, workshops, and lectures by leading photographers.
  • Truffle Days – Held in Buzet in the autumn, where visitors can join truffle hunts and sample dishes made with this local specialty.
  • Vinistra – A wine fair in Poreč held in May, bringing together the best winemakers of the region and offering wine tastings.


Photo by ShengGeng Lin on Unsplash

Events and Festivals, Apartments Aria and Ginger in the center of Poreč and near the sea, Istria - Croatia Poreč

Istria is a destination that offers diversity at every turn—from rich history and culture to natural wonders and adventurous activities, as well as culinary delights to satisfy the most demanding palates. Whether you’re looking for seaside relaxation, discovering historical towns, active nature escapes, or gourmet experiences, Istria is a place that will captivate you and leave you yearning for more.

Aria & Ginger Apartments

8. Mart 8
52440 Poreč

+385912465666

[email protected]

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