Itineraries in Istria, Croatia

Motovun

Beyond coastal cities and resorts, the Istrian region offers a surprising variety of treasures. A short ride from Pula takes you to Vodnjan, known for its mummified saints. Offshore is the rugged island of Cres, home to the gargantuan griffon vulture. Between Pula and Opatija lies the hilltop town of Labin where you can amble through a former coal mine or admire exquisite Venetian architecture. While the interior villages of Draguc and Hum have slowly experienced depopulation, once-abandoned Groznjan has been reborn as a thriving arts colony. Even remote Motovun hosts an annual film festival within its medieval walls.

These two itineraries assume that you'll arrive in Pula, a fair assumption such Pula is the only Istrian town with an airport (see more on flights to Pula). You can rent a car at Pula airport. It's helpful (although not essential) to have a car for these itineraries, especially to visit the hill towns of Motovun and Groznjan. All other coastal and interior towns are well-connected by bus.

Would you like a custom itinerary? I can design itinerary just for you, your interests, allotted time and budget. See more.

The Inner Istria

Duration: One Week
Start: Pula
Finish: Porec
Why: Istrian culture; the Istrian interior

Start in Pula. Spend two nights, visiting the Roman ruins, Vodnjan, and take a day trip to the Brijuni Islands.
Drive to Rovinj. Spend three nights. Visit the town, sunbathe in Crveni Otok and take day trips to Pazin and Buzet.
Drive to Porec, stopping to visit the Lim Fjord on the way. Spend two nights. Visit the Euphrasian Basilica; take day trips to Motovun and Groznjan.

Recommended Hotels
     Histria Hotel (Pula)
     Hotel Angleo d'Oro (Rovinj)
     Hotel Valamar Diamant (Porec)

Istria and the Kvarner Islands

Click for a wonderful itinerary that combines culture and beaches.

Where to Go: Istria Itineraries

The Inner Istria