Discover Istria, a peninsula in Southern Europe with a pleasant climate!
Croatia has become an increasingly popular holiday destination in recent years. The summers are good, the coastline is beautiful (perhaps even more beautiful than that of many other southern European countries) and not unimportantly, it is all very affordable.
Nice to go outside, to the beach and also endure it too. Istria has a sunny hour score that we are jealous of, and the temperature (average around 24/25 degrees) is perfect. Istria is also one of the greenest places in Croatia. This is thanks to the warm southerly wind that occasionally provides a refreshing shower. Palms, cypresses and olive trees, but also beautiful pine forests ensure that nature lovers can indulge themselves.
Porec town
Our holiday starts in one of Croatia’s most popular destinations: Poreč. This is a town on the west coast of Istria that is almost 2,000 years old. About 25,000 people live in this popular city, but during the high season Poreč and its surroundings are home to more than millions of tourists. This picturesque coastal town attracts more than 400,000 tourists every year. Of course it is touristy in the summer, but we have even experienced this as positive and nice and lively.
Poreč is a historic town where discovering Croatian culture can be combined with a beach holiday on the long coastline. Cultural attractions include the Basilica of Euphrasius and the city museum, but it is also possible to go shopping in the center. On the coast you can choose from both sandy and gravel beaches and in the evening you can enjoy dinner on one of the many terraces in the city. If you are lucky there is a live band or artist playing somewhere that provides some extra fun.
In my opinion there are nicer cities in Croatia, but Poreč actually offers everything you are looking for as a base for your holiday. Think of beautiful beaches, good accommodations, sports options, restaurants, nightlife and also outings for the whole family.
To inspire you for your next holiday in Croatia (and maybe Poreč), here are a few tips to do in the area! Istria is home to a number of beautiful towns along the coast, so below are a few that we liked.
Rovinj town
Like Poreč, this is a town located on the west coast of Istria and has a rich cultural heritage. The place is a bit quieter. The center of Rovinj has a network of old streets that give the city its cozy atmosphere. You can still feel the history of the city, but unfortunately it is increasingly displaced by tourist attractions. In the city center you will find many cafes, galleries and wine cellars, but the fishing harbor is also worth a visit.
To admire this town in all its glory, climb the tower of Saint Eufemija. At the top, the view over the city is beautiful. Prefer a sporty tour? There are several mountain bike trails around Rovinj and you can easily rent a bike there.
Pula city
Pula is the southernmost city of the peninsula. It is the 7th largest city in Croatia in terms of population and is more than 3,000 years old. This city is the heart of trade and industry and the harbor is well sheltered. The most famous building of the city is the amphitheater (from the first century). Various opera, theater or concerts are also held in the summer months. Unfortunately we were not so lucky, but the theater is worth a visit. Pula is about an hour’s drive from Porec.
Vrsar village
A nice little fishing village nearby. This village is mainly known by tourists and in size not comparable with the larger towns in the area. There are also not very special things to see, it is just a nice and cozy town. If you are in the area, take a nice walk in Vrsar and enjoy the view of the harbor.
Kamenjak
Beautiful beaches almost all to yourself (if you’ve managed a little). You can find it in Kamenjak National Park at the southernmost tip of Istria. The island is 9.5 km long and only 1.5 km wide. It is shaped by numerous coves, waves, small islands and beautiful beaches. There are many dusty roads that lead to the most hidden areas. You can drive there by car, but it is not very comfortable on the bumpy dirt roads. You can easily set aside a day for this park to swim, chill, snorkel, surf, etc. So bring your diving mask! And don’t forget your walking shoes, because you can make a beautiful trip there.
We ended up staying for a week on the west coast of Croatia and then went to the east coast of Istria. We were positively surprised by the beauty of the beaches, cities and nature of this part of Croatia!
