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Istria

Get to know Istria


A green oasis and the largest peninsula of the Adriatic where you can spend unforgettable moments both along the 445-km-long coast or inland, which, apart from endless vineyards and olive groves, also boasts prized truffles which can be found in the dense forests. On the west coast of Istria, we invite you to explore the pristine nature of Lim Bay, with Rovinj, the most romantic town in the Mediterranean, just a stone’s throw away to the south.

Lying on the 45th parallel, sitting half way between the Equator and the North Pole, Istria enjoys an ideal position in terms of geography and temperature in the northern hemisphere.

Located in the Northern Adriatic, the Istrian peninsula is the closest Mediterranean destination to most Central European countries.

Istria is famous for its cuisine, rich in traditional flavours reflecting the historical, geographic and climatic characteristics of the peninsula. The interior of Istria has many taverns and wine cellars where you can experience an authentic atmosphere and taste traditional local dishes complemented by local wines such as Malvasia (white), Teran and Refošk (red), or Istrian Muscat (a famous dessert wine).

Olives have been an important part of life in Istria since the time of the Ancient Greeks and Romans. Istrian olive oils are considered some of the best in the world, and they can be tasted in the finest mills and taverns across the peninsula.

Top 10 things to do in Istria
Visit the Roman Amphitheatre in Pula

Built entirely from limestone coming from local quarries, the Roman Amphitheatre in Pula, dating from the 1st century, overlooks the port northeast of the Old Town. Designed for gladiatorial contests, it could hold up to 20,000 spectators in its heyday. The 30 metre-high outer wall is almost intact and contains two rows of 72 arches.
Visit the Euphrasian Basilica in Poreč

The Euphrasian Basilica in Poreč is one of the finest examples of 6th-century Byzantine art. A World Heritage site, built on the foundations of a 4th -century basilica and a 5th -century church, this complex includes a church, an atrium and a baptistery with mosaics from earlier structures still visible on the northern nave floor.
Scuba-dive to the Barun Gautsch near Rovinj

The Austro-Hungarian passenger ship Baron Gautsch, which sunk in 1914, still exudes the magical aura of La Belle Epoque, mostly because of its magnificently preserved wreck lying at a depth of 40 metres off the coast of Rovinj.
Visit the Cathedral of St. Euphemia in Rovinj

The largest baroque building in Istria, the tower of St Euphemia, is also the highest point in Rovinj, offering an enchanting view of the town and the archipelago that surrounds it. The church tower is a replica of the bell tower of St Mark’s Basilica in Venice, with a bronze statue of Saint Euphemia on its spire. The statue spins around to show the direction of the wind with her right hand.
Visit the cathedral in Pula

The main altar of the cathedral is a Roman sarcophagus from the 3rd century. The church was built around it sometime in the 5th century. The floor reveals fragments of 5th and 6th century mosaics. After a fire, the church was rebuilt in 1242, and the Renaissance southern portal was added in the 15th century. Further improvements were made in the early 16th and 17th centuries.
Lim Bay, Rovinj

Lim Bay enjoys the status of a preserved landscape. It is over 10 km long and looks like a fjord, shaped by the dissolution of the limestone bedrock.
Walls of Motovun

Known for its film festival in recent years, Motovun is the most beautiful and best preserved Istrian medieval hilltop fortification. Taking a walk along its walls is like being on a time travelling expedition, because the higher you climb its two sets of fortified walls, the older they get. Once you reach the top, take a moment to enjoy the view and imagine a merchant caravan in the Mirna Valley below.
Hum - the smallest city in the world

With a population of only 17 people, Hum is officially listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the smallest town in the world. This small, fortified medieval town was first mentioned in documents dating back to 1102, in a deed of gift of Urlich II to the Patriarch of Aquilea. Around that time, the frescoes of Hum were created.
Cape Kamenjak

Cape Kamenjak, the most southern tip of the Istrian peninsula, is an area of unspoilt nature that has been put under protection because of its rich flora and fauna, which include several endemic species. Kamenjak is also a place where you can enjoy diving and other sport activities on land and in the sea, with environmental protection always in first place.
The Brijuni Islands

The Brijuni Islands, stretching along the southwest coast of Istria, in the immediate vicinity of Pula, used to be the centre of the European and global jet set. The Brijuni archipelago is the only national park on the Istrian peninsula, and with its 14 islands covering 736 hectares of land, it represents a unique natural wonder that combines beautiful animal species and rare and rich flora in one place. It is renowned as one of the most beautiful archipelagos of the Mediterranean.

General information

The climate is mild, Mediterranean, with warm and dry summers, and mild and pleasant winters. It has an average of 2,338 sunny hours per year, and 10 hours of sun per day during the summer. The average air temperature during the coldest part of the year is 6°C, and 30°C during the warmest. The lowest sea temperatures are recorded in March, with an average of 9°C, while the highest temperatures are recorded in August, reaching up to 25°C. With an average of 2,000 hours of sunshine, the blue summer skies sometime last for several months (from April to October) without interruption in western Istria. Most beaches in Istria are rocky, stone or pebble, and in certain locations, sandy with lush Mediterranean vegetation reaching down to the sea, providing the perfect basis for your holidays in Istria.

  • Population: 206,400
  • Area: 2,820 km²
  • Coastline: 445 km (a well-indented coast, twice as long as the distance by road)
  • Vegetation: pine forests (35% of area)
  • Water temperature:
  • March (9.3°C to 11.1°C)
  • August (23.3°C to 24.1°C)
  • Salinity: an average of 36 to 38 per mille
  • Rivers: Mirna, Dragonja, Raša
  • Climate: Mediterranean
  • January (5°C to 9°C)
  • August (22°C to 25 °C)

Accommodations in Istria

Grand Park Hotel Rovinj
Grand Park Hotel Rovinj
rovinj

The Grand Park Hotel Rovinj provides a holiday experience that comes to life. It is harmoniously situated on Rovinj’s eastern shore, offering remarkable vistas of its old town and a revitalising wellness & spa experience. The Grand Park hides many small pleasures. Take time to discover them. The fragrances and flavours of Istria can be experienced at the Albaro Wellness & Spa, as well as at seven restaurants and bars, including Michelin-recommended Cap Aureo and the two-Michelin-starred Agli Amici Rovinj.

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Adults Exclusive Hotel Monte Mulini
Adults Exclusive Hotel Monte Mulini
rovinj

Enjoy the carefully curated cuisine in one of three high-end restaurants, soak up the sun at the Beach Club with a refreshing cocktail in your hand or simply relax in our boutique wellness and spa designed to offer you pampering for the body and relaxation for the mind. Monte Mulini, an adults-only experience that will revitalise you in true hedonistic fashion.

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Hotel Lone
Hotel Lone
rovinj

Combining a unique and functional design over six floors, located by the sea and the centuries-old Golden Cape forest park, this hotel is a year-round leisure and business destination. Just like a contemporary art museum, every detail of the Hotel Lone, awakens your desire to explore.

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Hotel Adriatic
Hotel Adriatic
rovinj

This chic boutique hotel is located in Rovinj’s historic centre and is entirely inspired by art. Every part of the hotel is decorated with art by Croatian artists made exclusively for the hotel. And if you feel inspired to create a piece of your own, the view of Rovinj’s rooftops from your room is an excellent motif with which to start.

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Hotel Eden
Hotel Eden
rovinj

A unique hotel with a charming atmosphere located in Lone Bay, in the shade of the fragrant Golden Cape forest park. With first-class service and a long tradition of individual approach to every guest, you can relax to the fullest with our Mediterranean beauty treatments and fragrances of Istria at our wellness and spa centre or stay active by playing tennis, swimming or cycling.

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Family Hotel Amarin
Family Hotel Amarin
rovinj

You will find endless opportunities for exploration and fun as soon as you set foot in the most modern family hotel in Croatia and your children see the big blue climbing net and immediately embark on an adventure. The Family Hotel Amarin is located on a green peninsula in a Mediterranean park with playgrounds for outdoor entertainment. Most of the 280 rooms offer great views of the sea or the town of Rovinj. Explore the beaches around the hotel, check out the fun and educational programmes of the unique Amarin Kids Club, and try the spa treatments for children and adults.

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Island Hotel Istra
Island Hotel Istra
rovinj

The Island Hotel Istra, located on the island of St Andrew, has everything you need for a relaxing holiday: miles of beaches and promenades, a swimming pool complex, and a Wellness & Spa oasis with a Mediterranean garden. La Serra Restaurant, Anno Domini 547, located in the same building which was once Baron Hütterott’s summer residence, offers a modern take on traditional Mediterranean specialities.

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Island Hotel Katarina
Island Hotel Katarina
rovinj

The Island of St Catherine and the eponymous hotel (Katarina), located in a historic building that was once the summer villa of Count Milewski, are located only five minutes by boat from Rovinj. No cars, no traffic, no crowds – surrounded by beautifully landscaped parks filled with Mediterranean vegetation, spoil yourself with relaxing walks, exploring the island’s natural beaches and hidden coves. Enjoy the serenity of the hotel’s retro rooms and suites with a view of the sea or the charming Rovinj Old Town.

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Hotel Pineta
Hotel Pineta
vrsar

Located on top of a hill in the stone pine forest after which it is named, the Pineta Hotel offers a unique view of the old town of Vrsar, the Adriatic Sea and the surrounding islands. With numerous bike trails in the area, the hotel is well equipped for cyclists. Fans of active holidays can also enjoy trekking, tennis, diving, swimming, and other sports in the area. In parallel with your active holiday, take a break in the intimate atmosphere of the Wellness & Spa centre.

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Resort Amarin
Resort Amarin
rovinj

A favourite destination for families with children, surrounded by vegetation and near the sea, with an unforgettable view of the old town of Rovinj. The spacious apartments and rooms with balconies provide you with plenty of peace and privacy. When you decide to swap relaxation for fun activities, you will be delighted by our many sports and entertainment options, all-day entertainment programmes for all ages, and numerous restaurants and bars.

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Resort Belvedere
Resort Belvedere
vrsar

The modern rooms and apartments are located right by the sea, ascending along a gentle slope with a beautiful view of the 18 islands of the Vrsar archipelago. In just a few minutes of easy walking along the seafront promenade, you will reach the centre of Vrsar, or explore the surroundings by bike. You can relax and have fun on the natural beaches or at the large swimming pool with a water slide in the centre of the resort.

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All Inclusive Resort Funtana
All Inclusive Resort Funtana
vrsar

The modern rooms are located right by the sea, ascending along a gentle slope with a beautiful view of the 18 islands of the Vrsar archipelago. In just a few minutes of easy walking along the seafront promenade, you will reach the centre of Vrsar, or explore the surroundings by bike. You can relax and have fun on the natural beaches or at the large swimming pool with a water slide in the centre of the resort.

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Naturist Park Koversada Apartments
Naturist Park Koversada Apartments
vrsar

Koversada Naturist Park Apartments are located at the entrance to the beautiful Lim Bay, surrounded by pristine Mediterranean scenery, the sea, and natural beaches. Discover local flavours of Istria in our restaurants and bars and enjoy an active holiday with numerous sports and entertainment activities.

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Campsite Veštar
Campsite Veštar
rovinj

Visit the campsite situated in a peaceful bay with the most beautiful pebbled beach, just five kilometres from Rovinj. Choose from well-equipped pitches up to 140 sq. metres in size and comfortable mobile homes with a terrace. Alongside diving, an aqua park and an array of water sports, the campsite also offers a large swimming pool complex and a spray park. The attractive locations by the beach and the pools feature restaurants and bars serving local specialities and your favourite beverages.

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Campsite Polari
Campsite Polari
rovinj

Maistra’s largest campsite, Polari, is located in a serene bay near the town of Rovinj, where you can wake up surrounded by the sea, centuries-old olive trees, rows of cypresses and a fragrant pine forest. The campsite features numerous sports and entertainment activities for the whole family, a large pool complex and spray park, natural beaches, and bars and restaurants for quick refreshments during the day, or dinner savouring the local specialities. Rovinj is only 3.5 km away and can be reached by bike or on foot along the coastal cycling and walking trail.

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Campsite Amarin
Campsite Amarin
rovinj

Camp at this top-quality resort with natural beaches in the shade of fragrant pine trees overlooking Rovinj, and enjoy all the amenities on offer. Choose from spacious pitches with electricity, water and drainage hook-ups, comfortable mobile homes with private terraces, and 20 glamping tents. There are also three outdoor swimming pools by the sea, and restaurants and bars for refreshments. A fantastic entertainment programme for children and teenagers, as well as an excellent choice of sports on land and water, will make your holiday at this campsite fulfilling and revitalising.

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Campsite Valkanela
Campsite Valkanela
vrsar

Valkanela Campsite is situated in a beautiful bay with a view of Vrsar and the islands. Here you can find a unique offer of amenities and entertainment for a great family holiday. Choose from accommodation on well-positioned spacious pitches or in comfortable mobile homes with a shared pool or private hydro-massage bathtub on the terrace. The campsite features attractive natural beaches, a pool complex, and restaurants and bars right by the sea and pools.

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Campsite Porto Sole
Campsite Porto Sole
vrsar

If you ever feel like spending time in Istria, Porto Sole Campsite is open throughout the year. You can stay on pitches by the sea or in mobile homes embodying the special ambience of a winter holiday surrounded by nature. Explore the charming town of Vrsar not far from the camp, or roam around the beautiful countryside cycling along the attractive nearby trails. Besides the diving club and outdoor fitness zone, the campsite offers a wide range of sports amenities by the beaches and pools.

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Campsite Naturist park Koversada
Campsite Naturist park Koversada
vrsar

Koversada Naturist Park is located at the entrance to the beautiful Lim Bay, surrounded by a typical Mediterranean landscape, the sea and natural beaches. This campsite with the longest naturist tradition in Europe is a relaxing paradise in the heart of pristine nature, offering a variety of accommodation choices: from camping places and pitches, comfortable mobile homes, tents on the car-free island of Koversada, to rooms and suites in bungalows. Explore the local flavours of Istria in our restaurants and bars, and enjoy an active holiday with our sports and entertainment activities.

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Experiences in Istria

Private dinner at impressive Pula Arena
Istra
A private dinner in the Arena guarantees an evening to remember.
Charming sunset and private dinner on the romantic island
Istra
Private dinner on a romantic island. It sounds charming because it is.
Unique wine experience on the roof of Kozlović winery
Istra
Pairing wine and food pairs well with vacation and nature.
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