Adriatic Backroads - the Istrian Peninsula
Often overlooked by most “Game-of-Thrones” travelers to Croatia, the Istrian Peninsula in the north-west of the country is home to numerous historical and natural attractions with plenty of things to do, from wandering its medieval old towns to swimming in the clear, blue waters of the Adriatic. A drive through valleys and hills will leave you breathless. Charming towns like Rovinj or Pula pack tremendous Roman history while truffle-hunting tours in Motovun is a unique experience. Those will a few more days in hand can always head up north toward Slovenia, or east toward Zagreb, or south toward the touristic Dalmatian coast for an extended Balkan holiday.
Trip Highlights
- While Croatia has seen unchecked rise in tourism from the success of Game of Thrones, the much underrated Istrian peninsula offers the nature & history lover a landscape dotted with quaint unspoilt hilltop villages, renowned gastronomic experience and a unique insight into Roman history & architecture
- Make a base in Rovinj, Pula, or Lovran, and take day trips out. While in Rovinj, don’t miss the 18th-century Baroque Cathedral of St. Euphemia, with its huge bell tower. The first century Roman amphitheater in Pula (built around the same time as the Colosseum in Rome) will mesmerize you
- Take a dip in the crystal blue waters of the Adriatic sea, at the beach town of Rabac – with options of taking a boat excursion or a snorkeling trip or diving adventure
- Wander around in the 14th century walled town of Motovun, best known for truffle hunting tours, truffle fests, and souvenir shops dedicated to endless products made from truffles.
- In Poreč don’t miss the beautiful 6th-century Euphrasius Basilica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful mosaics on gold backgrounds
Which Visa Do I Need
Indian citizens require a visa to visit Croatia. However, holders of multiple entry Schengen Visa can enter Croatia as tourists without any additional visa
Length of Stay
We recommend at least 8 days for this itinerary. There are no direct flights to Croatia, so almost a full day is spent in getting there and back.
Best time to visit
Summer is the best time to visit (July-Aug) with long warm days. However, shoulder months of May-June and September are also worth considering as the crowds are lesser.
sailing on the adriatic, roman history & architecture, truffle hunting, snorkeling & diving, scenic drives
Did you know
- One third of the Istrian peninsula is covered with greenery and forests and includes 33 protected areas
- Istria is widely known for the truffles, found mostly in Motovun Forest. It still holds the record for the world’s largest truffle ever found in 1999, when a 1,31 kg piece was discovered.
- A magical example of a hilltop town in Istria, Hum is also said to be the smallest in the world. It measures 100m long & 30 m wide
- The largest nudist center in Istria, as well as in Europe, is the Koversada near Vrsar. In one day it can accommodate up to 12 000 tourists
- One of the wealthiest sites of dinosaur footprints in Europe is located on the islet of Fenoliga, close to Medulin with over 100 samples
