Why Istria and Olivia's Connection

Hear about travel to Croatia's Istrian Peninsula as the Amateur Traveler talks to Olivia from inspiredbycroatia.com about her adopted country.

https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-croatias-istrian-peninsula/

Why should you go to the Istrian Peninsula?

Olivia says, "I think that Istria is still a little bit underrated. Personally, I like to Talk about it as this like a fairytale like region. It has quite a strong Italian heritage somewhat reminiscent of Tuscany, but with a Croatian flair It's filled with these emerald green hills dotted with medieval villages throughout the food there is absolutely Fantastic."

"If you're a foodie you want to go to Istria, their home to lots of truffles, so you'll find truffles in a lot of the dishes there. And then in addition to the green interior, we have the rugged coastline rocky coastline, but beautiful blue pristine water and beaches, and it really just has the best of both worlds."

Olivia recommends this itinerary:

Day 1: Pula

• Explore Pula, the largest city in Istria.
• Visit the Roman Arena, a well-preserved amphitheater.
• Explore other historic sites like the Temple of Augustus and the ancient Roman Forum.
• Visit the Museum of Olive Oil and the castle.
• Drive to Verudela Peninsula for a swim in the sea and explore the rocky coastline.
• Optional: Attend the Pula Film Festival which is held in July.

Day 2: Fažana and Brioni National Park

• Drive to Fažana, a village 15 minutes north of Pula.
• Take a day trip to Brijuni National Park, an archipelago with untouched nature and Roman ruins.
• Explore the islands, including a tourist train ride and optional activities like renting a golf cart or bike, or driving Tito's car.
• Return to Fažana for a meal at Alla Beccaccia, a family-run restaurant.

Day 3: Rovinj

• Head north to Rovinj, a charming fishing village.
• Explore the town, visit the church, and walk down Grisea Street.
• Visit Mediterraneo Bar for a seaside cafe experience.

Day 4: Visit the Limfjord

• Take a boat ride on the Limfjord
• Head to Bale for a visit to local wineries.

Day 5: Porič and Umag

• Drive to Porič, a seaside town popular among European travelers.
• Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site and stroll down the main Roman street.
• Spend the afternoon walking along the Riviera for swimming.
• Head further north to Umag, known for the Croatia Open UMAG tennis tournament.
• Optional: Explore Savudrija and visit the oldest lighthouse.

Day 6: Green Istria - Motovun, Grožnjan, Momjan

• Visit Motovun, a hilltop town known for truffles.
• Explore the town, visit Truba Jazz and Wine Bar, and possibly attend the Motovon Summer Film Festival.
• Head to Grožnjan, a charming town known for artists and musicians.
• Explore the cobblestone streets and visit Truba Jazz and Wine Bar.
• End the day in Momjan at Kono Bastari Podrum for dinner and Kozlovich Winery for wine tasting.

Day 7: Buzet, Truffle Tasting, and Hum

• Visit Buzet and tour the Aura Distillery for brandies, liqueurs, and gin tasting.
• Head to Karlić Tartufi for truffle tasting, a truffle hunting experience, and a cooking demonstration.
• Optional: Stop at Kotli for waterfalls and small pools.
• Visit the "smallest town in the world", Hum.

Enjoy your trip to Istria!

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