Weekend Itinerary for Istria in Fall: Discover the Best of Croatia’s Autumn Charm
Autumn in Istria means mild weather, fewer crowds, and the most authentic seasonal experiences. September to November brings truffle season, wine harvest, and freshly pressed olive oil. This itinerary combines coastal heritage, hilltop villages, gastronomy, and nature—perfect for a short autumn getaway.
Day 1 – Coastal Charm: Poreč & Rovinj
Base: Stay in Poreč or Rovinj with a Euro Tours villa or apartment. We recommend; Apartment 3 Figs in Poreč
Morning – Explore Poreč
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Euphrasian Basilica: UNESCO-listed, famous for its 6th-century mosaics.
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Old Town Walk: Stroll along Decumanus Street, see the Roman ruins and charming Venetian architecture.
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Coffee stop: Caffe del Mar on Poreč’s waterfront—ideal for a slow autumn morning.
Lunch in Poreč
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Restaurant Sveti Nikola: Elegant dining with fresh seafood and Adriatic views.
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Konoba Aba: A cozy family-run tavern perfect for seasonal pasta with truffles.
Afternoon – Rovinj
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Historic Old Town: Wander cobbled alleys lined with colorful houses.
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St. Euphemia Church: Climb to the bell tower for panoramic views of the archipelago.
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Art Galleries & Boutiques: Discover local ceramics and handmade souvenirs.
Dinner in Rovinj
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Monte Restaurant: Michelin-starred, for a special autumn evening.
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Konoba Jure: Rustic tavern serving fuži pasta with truffle sauce and Istrian beef (boškarin).
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Sunset Spot: Enjoy the golden hour at Mediterraneo Bar on the seafront.
Day 2 – Hilltop Villages, Truffles & Wine
Theme: Inland Istria’s authentic gastronomy and culture.
Morning – Motovun
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Wander Motovun’s medieval walls and cobblestone streets.
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Book a truffle-hunting tour in the Mirna Valley forests (September–November is peak season).
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Tip: Visit the Motovun City Gate viewpoint for the best autumn photos.
Lunch – Truffle Delicacies
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Konoba Mondo (Motovun): Renowned for handmade fuži with fresh white truffles.
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Konoba Zigante (Livade): Famous spot near Motovun for fine truffle dining.
Afternoon – Grožnjan & Wine Roads
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Drive to Grožnjan, the “Town of Artists,” explore galleries and hidden courtyards.
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Stop for coffee and homemade cakes at Paladino Café with hilltop views.
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Head to Momjan for wine tasting at Kabola Winery (organic wines) or Kozlović Winery for Malvazija and Teran.
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Optional visit to a local olive oil estate such as Chiavalon in Vodnjan or Ipsa in Livade.
Dinner
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Return to your accommodation for a cozy night in or dine at San Servolo Brewery & Steakhouse near Buje for craft beer and hearty meals.
Day 3 – Nature & Olive Oil Roads
Theme: Outdoor adventures and authentic tastes.
Morning – Lim Fjord & Dvigrad
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Start at Lim Fjord Nature Reserve—take a boat ride or hike the scenic trails.
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Oyster lovers should stop at Viking Restaurant, famous for freshly caught oysters and mussels.
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Visit the Dvigrad ruins, an abandoned medieval town with a mysterious charm.
Afternoon – Olive Oil & Coastal Villages
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Follow the Olive Oil Roads in Vodnjan and Bale—visit Brist Olive Oil for tastings of award-winning extra virgin oils.
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Stroll the quaint streets of Bale, admire its stone alleys and historic architecture.
Dinner
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Enjoy a farewell dinner at Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Restaurant near Bale—perfect for autumn menus and wine pairings.
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If returning to Poreč, try Arman Konoba for local lamb or seasonal mushroom dishes.
Insider Tips for Your Autumn Trip
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Best time: Mid-September to late November for truffles, olive harvest, and mild weather (15–23 °C).
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Events: Motovun Truffle Days (Oct–Nov)
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Packing: Bring layers, waterproof shoes, and a light jacket for cooler evenings.
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Transportation: Renting a car is essential to explore hilltop towns and wineries.
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Accommodation: Euro Tours offers coastal villas and countryside homes ideal for cozy autumn evenings.
Suggested Map Pins
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Poreč Old Town & Euphrasian Basilica
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Rovinj Old Town & St. Euphemia Church
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Motovun, Livade (Zigante), Grožnjan
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Kabola & Kozlović Wineries
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Lim Fjord, Dvigrad, Bale
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Olive Oil Estates (Chiavalon, Brist, Ipsa)