Things to do in Istria Peninsula
Discover the best attractions and experiences Istria Peninsula has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore Istria's crossroads of civilizations where Roman, Venetian and medieval histories endure.
Pula Arena
One of the world's best-preserved Roman amphitheaters, echoing with ancient gladiator history and hosting summer events.
Euphrasian Basilica
UNESCO-listed basilica in Poreč with stunning mosaics spanning from late antiquity.
Rovinj Old Town
A maze of narrow streets, colorful facades and hilltop church towers, revealing Rovinj's historical charm.
Pazin Castle
Medieval fortress perched above the Pazin Gorge, offering dramatic views and a glimpse of Istrian life.
Motovun City Walls
Medieval fortifications with sweeping valley views and a taste of hilltop town history.
Museums
Istria's museums illuminate its archaeology, art and regional stories.
Archaeological Museum of Istria (Arheološki muzej Istre) – Pula
Displays spanning ancient Roman artifacts and local finds from Istria's past.
Muzej Grada Pule (Pula City Museum)
Chronicles Pula's urban and maritime history through photographs, documents and artifacts.
Muzej Grada Rovinja (Rovinj City Museum)
Explores Rovinj's development and daily life through period rooms and exhibits.
Ethnographic Museum of Poreč (Zavičajni muzej Poreštine)
Shows rural Istria's crafts, clothing and everyday life across the region.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites across Istria reflect centuries of faith and cultural exchange.
Euphrasian Basilica (UNESCO) – Poreč
A masterpiece of early Byzantine–Romanesque mosaics that defines Poreč's spiritual heritage.
St. Euphemia Church – Rovinj
Iconic hilltop church with sweeping sea views and a symbol of Rovinj.
National & Theme Parks
Istria's protected landscapes offer pristine coastlines, islands and hiking trails.
Brijuni National Park
A group of 14 islands known for wildlife, lush scenery and ancient ruins, accessible by boat from Fažana.
Kamenjak Nature Park
Wild coastal tip near Premantura with rugged trails, coves and crystal-clear water.
Učka Nature Park
Mountain panorama between Istria and Kvarner, offering hiking, viewpoints and wildlife.
Neighborhoods
Wander through Istria's historic centers and village cores that define the region's character.
Rovinj Old Town
Colorful streets and cliffside squares in Rovinj's living medieval core.
Pula Old Town
Roman streets meet Venetian stonework in Pula's historic heart.
Motovun
Hilltop town with cobbled lanes, medieval gates and panoramic valley views.
Grožnjan
Artist village perched on a hill, famous for studios and galleries.
Free Things to Do
Free experiences to soak up Istria’s scenery without breaking the budget.
Walk the Parenzana Trail
Follow the old railway line through scenic forests and coastal towns.
Sunset at Limski Kanal
Watch the sun dip over the salty inlet and rugged shores.
Public beaches and waterfront walks
Stroll along the coast and enjoy free beach access at many spots.
Gastronomy
Istria's palate blends wine, olive oil, truffles and cured meats.
Truffle tastings in Motovun and Livade
Seasonal tastings and truffle-inspired dishes in this renowned area.
Olive oil tasting tours
Sample estate-grown oils and learn about Istrian olive varieties.
Pršut and cheese tasting
Savor Istrian prosciutto with local cheeses and bread.
Malvasia & Teran wine tasting
Discover Istrian signature wines on the wine routes.
Nightlife
Evenings in Istria blend seaside charm with lively squares and bars.
Rovinj waterfront evening
Relaxed bars and live music along the Rovinj harbor at night.
Pula harbor bars
Seaside venues for sunset drinks and casual music along the waterfront.
Poreč square evenings
Summer nights filled with cafes and occasional street performances.
Entertainment
Cultural events and film festivals bring Istria to life after dark.
Motovun Film Festival
A renowned film festival set in the medieval hilltown, with screenings and ambience.
Pula Arena summer events
Outdoor performances and concerts staged inside the ancient amphitheater.
Rovinj town square concerts
Seasonal performances in the main squares with a Mediterranean vibe.
Sports
Active adventures on land and sea around the Istrian coast.
Sea kayaking around Brijuni Islands
Paddle along the crystal-clear waters and near secluded coves.
Parenzana cycling
Bike along the historic railway route through coastal towns and hills.
Hiking Učka Nature Park
Trail routes with panoramic viewpoints over the Istrian landscape.
Scuba diving along the Istrian coast
Explore underwater caves and colorful marine life.
Off the Track
Delve into lesser-known towns, farms and traditions beyond the usual sights.
Truffle hunting near Livade
Guided hunts in the Motovun area yield fresh truffles (seasonal).
Grožnjan, the artist village
Explore galleries, studios and terraces perched above the valley.
Hum – the smallest town in the world
Visit this tiny fortified hilltown with a couple of houses and a church.