Our Guide to Pula & Istrian Coast, Croatia
Date Posted: 16/02/2024
If you love culture, coastlines, and cracking cuisine, you’ll love this picture-perfect part of Croatia. Untouched by flocks of tourists compared to its popular southern counterparts Dubrovnik and Split, Pula and the Istrian Coast offer an idyllic escape for sun-seekers and history buffs alike.
Promising a slower pace of life and a sample of Italian-inspired dolce vita, this region is one to add to your travel list. From perfectly preserved Roman fortresses to floating national parks sprinkled with green pine woodlands and secluded coves, the Istrian Coast has it all.
Where to stay:
Rovinj:
A picturesque fishing port town located on the Istrian Peninsula of Croatia, Rovinj is known for its colourful Venetian-style buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. A popular destination for tourists seeking old-world charm and beautiful scenery, Rovinj’s old town district beckons lovers of the ancient world, with its quaint alleys, local markets, and historic landmarks such as Saint Euphemia Cathedral. Whether you enjoy relaxing on beautiful beaches, exploring the idyllic National Parks, or taking boat tours in glittering oceans, Rovinj promises peaceful postcard-worthy views in paradise.
Porec:
A charming coastal town, Porec offers the perfect balance of stunning beaches bliss, family fun in the sun, and neon nightlife. A town where crystal clear waters meet Roman-era landmarks, Porec is a popular destination for tourists seeking a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. The town's highlight is the Euphrasian Basilica, a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to the 6th century, that is alive with exquisite mosaics. But not everything in Porec is about history. Why not catch some thrills rappelling Baredine Cave? If you’re looking for a family-friendly adventure or spending sun-kissed days cosying up in coastal cafes, Porec is your dream Croatian getaway.
Our top things to do:
Pula Arena:
Echoing the landmarks of ancient Romans, Pula Arena is a must-see site on your holiday. Built for Emperor Titus, responsible for the Colosseum in Rome, this near-complete ring of walls towering above the streets is a beacon for history lovers. Or enter the corridors where warriors and lions stood in wait before entering It is easy to imagine the gladiatorial battles and feats of strength that took place.
Brijuni National Park:
A collection of 14 heavenly islands encased in lush gardens of rolling meadows and trees, Brijuni National Park is made to be explored. Home to one of the oldest olive trees in the Mediterranean, 200 Jurassic dinosaur footprints, and the beautiful St. Mary’s Basilica, there’s plenty to discover. Spend the day spotting zebras, llamas, and the beloved Indian Elephant, Lanka at Brijuni’s Safari Park, go on a guided kayaking tour around sunken island coastlines or dive into wondrous archaeological sites beneath the turquoise waves- whether on land or sea, Brijuni National Park is bound to amaze.
Lighting Giants:
As showtime descends on the shipyards of Pula, watch as the sky illuminates in a performance of vibrant colours. Each night from dusk, the industrial cranes light up the docks in a unique light show curated by designer Dean Skira. If you’re looking for something unusual to see between warm nights drinking at beachfront bars, this is a perfect event.
Food & Drink:
From fresh seafood to hearty stews, Croatian cuisine is a fusion of Mediterranean and Central European influences. Alive with rich culinary traditions, Croatia’s dishes are shaped by centuries of trade and conquest. The result- a diverse and vibrant food culture that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
One of the best ways to experience the country's culinary delights is to venture into its traditional taverns or konobas. These rustic restaurants serve classic Croatian dishes like peka, a smoky meat dish typically slow-cooked in an iron lid on an open fire. If you want to experience traditional dining, no Croatian meal would be complete without a shot of rakija. A fruit brandy popular throughout the country, Rakija is often served as an aperitif or a digestive, and it's the perfect way to round off a delicious meal.
Drawn to Croatia with a promise of old-world charm and ethereal beauty, Croatia also pulls lovers of all things seafood. Croatia's long Istrian coastline is home to a variety of fresh fish and shellfish. Famous for its prawns, octopus, and squid, which are often grilled or served in a rich tomato-based sauce, The Adriatic Sea provides an abundance of flavourful dishes.
Of course, no visit to Croatia would be complete without trying some of its excellent wines. The country has a long tradition of winemaking, and its vineyards produce some of the best wines in Europe. The most famous wine regions are Istria, which produces white wines, and Dalmatia, which is known for its red wines. So, whether you prefer a crisp white or a robust red, there's a Croatian wine to suit your taste.
