Best places to stay in Istria

On the western coast of Istria is a traditional fishing town called Rovinj. The town is built up of narrow, cobbled streets with architectural landmarks and churches. Hugging the coastline is the Adriatic Sea, twinkling under the bright Croatian sun. Walking through Rovinj Town itself is one of the best things to do here – browsing independent shops, cafes and enjoying local food at the waterfront or harbour. With a mix of things to do and accommodation on offer, Rovinj is a good option for all types of travelers visiting Istria.

Located in the center of Istria is the beautiful town of Porec. Like other neighbouring towns in Istria, Porec is a classic blend between the old and the new. Porec’s Old Town is a maze of cobbled walkways, ancient squares and Gothic architecture. Try to wander these streets with no urgency or time frame. Just enjoy their charm and romance, as you get lost between the alleyways. You are likely stumble across a tower, palace or an interesting museum. Porec is also the best destination to head to over to Venice in Italy. For that reason, it’s a perfect place to stay for couples or honeymooners seeking the most romantic of experiences and excursions.

Motovun is a village situated up the slopes and atop a hill. It’s a pretty iconic destination and is often the ‘postcard picture’ for Istria. At the foothills of the hill are miles of vineyards, olive farms, and other agricultural land. During your stay in Motovun, take the time to visit a local vineyard or olive grove and be guided through the process of planting, cultivating and producing wine and olive oil. Motovun is also home to the Motovun Forest. This is a beautiful forest in the valley of the Mirna River, and also the home of the famous Istrian truffle.