While Istria’s world-class gastronomy and enchanting landscape make it the ultimate destination for just sitting back and taking it all in, it also has a plethora of sights and activities to entertain the whole family. From uninhabited peninsulas strewn with hidden beaches, and secluded vineyards offering tours and tastings, to secret caves and a jam-packed cultural calendar, there are so many brilliant things to do in Istria. So much so that we’ve had to collate a list of our favourites!
Before we uncover some of the best things to do in Istria, we’ll first explore when to visit this beautiful country. The weather can affect several aspects of your break, so it’s important to plan your time accordingly.
The shoulder seasons, May, June, September, and October, are great for visitors looking for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. During these times, you can explore some of the most popular attractions with ease without the hustle and bustle.
If you’d prefer to immerse yourself in the lively side of Croatia, summer is the time to visit. July and August tend to be the busiest months to explore Istria, which is great for those looking for lots to see and do. Plus, with glorious sunshine and warm temperatures, you’re sure to enjoy your stay during this time.
Low season starts in November and ends in April and is the quietest time to visit Istria. There are also options to go skiing in the mountains during these months, great for outdoor adventurers.
No matter when you decide to explore Istria, you’re sure to enjoy a break brimming with natural beauty and a ton of fantastic activities and attractions.
Now you know a bit more about when to visit this beautiful destination, let’s uncover some of the best things to do in Istria, Croatia. Below are some unmissable suggestions for those looking to make the most out of their time here.
The underground landscapes of Baredine Cave
Deep underground, not far from busy Poreč, the ancient Baredine Cave is home to a network of underground lakes and eerie chambers, covered in stalagmites and dripping with stalactites.
Keep your eyes peeled and you may spot the mysterious cave olm – known locally as the ‘human fish’. The pale white creatures look a bit like baby dragons, and they’re so rare, they’re protected. All tours are guided and last about 40 minutes, with two an hour (departing daily). Beware, it can get slippery down there, so wear grippy shoes.
The Parenzana Trail is a disused narrow-gauge railway, which meanders through the Istrian countryside, used to link popular Poreč with the port of Trieste. Today, the 38-mile stretch offers hikers and cyclists a winding journey through dense pine forests and rolling hills, taking in various hilltop towns en route.
Hop on one of the regular ferries from Fažana to this unspoilt archipelago, so serene that President Tito chose it as his summer residence. The 15-minute crossing docks on Veliki Brijun, the largest of the 14 islands.
Kids can enjoy the miniature train which drives you around the main sights in Brijuni National Park. Alternatively, if you prefer to explore (powered by your own steam) hire bicycles or a golf buggy – dinosaur-mad little ones will love hunting around the island for the genuine 100-million-year-old dinosaur footprints!
This dinosaur theme park has everything from a live circus, fun rides and a zoo, to a playground and Jurassic workshops. However, it’s the 80 life-sized dinosaur models, which move mechanically, that really blow kid’s minds! Inside the park, you will find various picnic spots and restaurants.
Istria’s hills are covered in vineyards and – might we say, finally – the region is getting the credit it deserves from the wine community. Istrian wineries regularly appear on the winners’ podiums at top wine awards.
Alongside the region’s traditional grapes, namely red teran and white malvasia, many wineries have started introducing more international varieties, such as merlot, and cabernet sauvignon, generating some exciting new Istrian blends.
There are lots of places to enjoy guided tastings, from welcoming family-run wineries and chic wine bars to remote hillside vineyards. Check out our Istrian food and wineries guide for our must-visit makers and merchants.
Surrounded by beautiful rolling countryside, Istralandia is one of our favourite Croatian waterparks. With six different swimming pools, 1.6km of water slides and countless food and drink outlets, it can easily entertain the whole family all day. Alternatively, Aquacolours Poreč is also packed with pools and slides and has a great lazy river.
Victoria Tours runs sunset dolphin-spotting excursions, which leave from Poreč and trace the coast south to Rovinj, taking in the Lim Fjord en route. The cruise provides views of Plava Laguna, Zelena Laguna, Funtana, Vrsar and various islands. Transfers to Poreč are possible.
This family-friendly beach in the south is a great go-to if you fancy having some fun in Istria’s turquoise waters. Stretching over 1km, its sandy shores and shallow waters are great for children, but it also has loads of wet and wild activities for adrenaline-fuelled fun: from jet-skiing and banana boating to sailing lessons. At the other end of the coast, the Belistra water sports centre in Novigrad also offers lots of options, such as parasailing and kitesurfing.
The winding hilltop town of Motovun
Inland, Istria looks like something from a Tuscan travel brochure. Get a bird’s eye view of its magnificent forests and hilltop towns with a paragliding session. Paragliding Tandem Istra offers four different flying experiences, from 15-minute tandem flights to week-long courses. Based on historic Motovun, a flight with them allows you to take in the ancient city walls and Mirna River Valley.
Music is a big part of Istrian life, with the region’s towns and villages celebrating bass, reggae and everything in between. Jazz fans should head to the arty hilltop town of Grožnjan in July, when ‘Jazz is Back’ attracts an impressive international line-up of musicians to its cobbled streets – Bale also hosts a small one in August.
In June, Latino beats fill venues around upmarket Rovinj for the annual Croatian Salsa Festival, with international performances and dance lessons catering to all abilities. For those after something a little more intense, Pula’s Outlook and Dimensions festivals are the obvious choices, but electro fans should consider Lighthouse Festival’s underground line-up, too.
A trip to Istria simply isn’t complete without visiting the iconic Roman Amphitheatre. Situated in the beautiful town of Pula, this must-visit landmark offers a unique insight into the history and heritage here, alongside an opportunity to uncover some of the country’s ancient ruins.
The Roman Amphitheatre dates back to the 1st century and offers outstanding views overlooking the harbour of the lovely old town. Originally, it served as the arena for gladiator contests, seating about 20,000 people. Today, people can wander around the historic structure while learning more about its fascinating past.
When scouring the beautiful Istria peninsula, there’s no better place to visit than the lovely old town of Rovinj. This pretty spot allows for a fantastic insight into the ancient history and heritage of Croatia, all while offering a charming area to spend the day with family, friends or your partner.
Rovinj is also smaller than some of the other favoured towns including Split and Dubrovnik, providing an intimate atmosphere for those looking to uncover some of the best places to visit in Istria. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, take in the impressive architecture, indulge in mouthwatering cuisine, or simply sit back and unwind in stunning surroundings.
No matter how you spend your time in Rovinj, you’re sure to enjoy all that this picturesque town has in store for you.
There are more than enough fabulous beaches to uncover in Croatia, meaning you’ll find something for an array of travel itineraries. And, when looking for some of the best things to do in Istria, there’s no better way to take in some of the country’s natural wonders than by lounging on the sandy shores.
Some of the favoured beaches include Cape Kamenjak, Bijeca, Girandella, Zlatni Rat, Brulo and more. Each of these beautiful shores has something unique to offer, making them perfect for families, friends and couples alike.
Whether you’re looking to sit back and unwind or would prefer to partake in the many watersport activities including snorkelling, swimming and more, you’ll find something to keep the whole family entertained at the beaches in Istria.
With so many incredible things to do in Istria, you’ll find yourself needing more time just to experience them all. Plus, the diverse activities and attractions here make it a fantastic destination for all types of holidays, allowing you to fill your time with an excellent blend of exploration and relaxation. No matter where you go in Istria, you’re sure to find a place brimming with endless adventure and natural beauty at every twist and turn, catering to an array of tastes and preferences.
If you’re planning to visit Istria, you’re likely in need of accommodation. Luckily enough Oliver’s Travels has an excellent collection of outstanding villas throughout Croatia. These properties have something to offer all types of holiday itineraries, great for families, friends and couples alike.
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