AT#881 - Travel to Croatia's Istrian Peninsula

Jan 20, 2024

Discover the enchanting Istrian Peninsula in Croatia, a hidden gem with a captivating Italian influence. From emerald hills dotted with medieval villages to a stunning rocky coastline, this region offers breathtaking landscapes. Food lovers will delight in the area's truffle-rich cuisine and olive oil museums. Follow a week-long itinerary featuring Pula's Roman Arena and Brijuni National Park, as well as charming towns like Rovinj and Motovun, where breathtaking views and delightful wineries await. Perfect for adventurers and foodies alike!

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INSIGHT

Istria Feels Like Croatia’s Tuscany

Istria blends Italian heritage with Croatian character and feels reminiscent of Tuscany but greener and coastal.
Olivia highlights emerald hills, medieval villages, and top-tier food including abundant local truffles.

ADVICE

Drive Istria To See More

Rent a car for an Istria road trip because many places lack convenient public transport connections.
Plan 7 days to combine 4–5 coastal days with 2–3 interior (green) Istria days for balance.

ADVICE

Start In Pula For Roman History

Visit Pula's Roman Arena and consider a guide to learn detailed history and access underground corridors.
Combine the ruins with coffee at the Temple of Augustus and the Museum of Olive Oil for a full cultural day.

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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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