Sightseeing in Istrian cities: The best places to visit in the region
Istria is a beautiful region in Croatia and a popular tourist destination. The region is home to some of the most beautiful and historic cities in Croatia. It is also known for its delicious cuisine, olive oil and wine production, and stunning natural landscapes. In this blog, we will take a look at the unique Istrian cities you could visit.
Pula
Pula is a city located on the southern tip of the Istrian Peninsula. The city is known for its stunning Roman ruins, including the Pula Arena, which is one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world.
The arena was built in the 1st century and is still used today for concerts and other events. Other locations in Pula we recommend to visit are:
● The Temple of Augustus
● The Arch of the Sergii
● Gate of Hercules
● Aquarium Pula
● Fortress Kaštel
● Historical and Maritime Museum of Istria
● Bonaca Restaurant & Lounge Bar
Rovinj
Rovinj is a picturesque town located on the western coast of the Istrian Peninsula. The town is known for the old town, its narrow streets, colorful houses, and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. Rovinj is also home to several historic landmarks, including:
● The Church of St. Euphemia
● City museum of Rovinj
● Civic Museum
● Balbi's Arch
● Grisia Street
As for nature, there is Punta Corrente - the forest park. It is one of the most important natural attractions of Rovinj.
Motovun
Motovun is a small town situated on top of a 270-meter hill in the heart of Istria. The town is surrounded by lush green hills, vineyards, and olive groves, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Here are some of the most popular things to see in Motovun, Croatia:
● Motovun's medieval walls and gates
● Cultural and educational center "Kaštel"
● Motovun's bell tower
● St. Stephen's Church
● Motovun Forest
● Motovun Film Festival (held annually in July or August)
● Art galleries and studios featuring local artists
Poreč
Poreč is a city located on the western coast of the Istrian Peninsula. The city is known for its stunning Byzantine mosaics, which are located in the Euphrasian Basilica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Other notable sites in Poreč include:
● Poreč Old Town
● The Marafor Square
● The Baredine Cave
● Neptune temple
● Poreč-Parenzo Town Museum
● Parenzana Bike Trail
● Poreč Historical Festival – Giostra
Pazin
Pazin is a small town located in the center of Istria. The town is known for its stunning medieval castle, which dates back to the 10th century. The castle is perched on a hill overlooking the town and is home to several exhibitions and events throughout the year.
Beside the castle, we recommend to visit the following places:
● The Ethnographic Museum of Istria
● Museum of the city of Pazin
● Pazin Cave
● Zarečki Krov Waterfall
● Church of St. Nicholas
● Zip Line Pazin Cave
Also, there are Wine and Olive Oil Tasting Tours in Pazin.
Grožnjan
Grožnjan is a small medieval town located in the inland of Istria, known for its artistic scene and cultural heritage.
Beside its medieval walls and gates that makes Grožnjan recognizable, check these things:
● Church of St. Vitus, St. Modestus and St. Crescentia
● Museum of Popular Musical Instruments and Archaeological Museum
● Art galleries and studios featuring local artists
● Jazz is Back! Festival (held annually in July)
● Wine tours
● The view from the top of Grožnjan's hill
● Istrian truffle hunting tours
Novigrad
Novigrad is a small town located on the west coast of Istria, known for its beautiful beaches and city walls. The city is also home to several historical landmarks, including:
● Church of St. Pelagie and the Novigrad Belfry
● City loggia Belvedere
● Museum-Museo Lapidarium
● Gallerion Museum
So whether you are interested in medieval castles, vineyards or museums, Istria has something for everyone. If you have already included Istria on your travel list, be sure to check out our offer of holiday homes and apartments in Istria. And for any advice on what to visit, don’t hesitate to contact us!