Istria – this peninsula in northwestern Croatia is a world of its own. Between turquoise seas, olive groves, medieval villages, truffle forests and Venetian heritage, everyone will find something that moves them.
Whether this is your first time in Istria or you played on the beach in Medulin as a child – this countdown shows you the 10 places you must see in Istria. From underrated spots to absolute highlights.
Let's get started – from number 10 to the ultimate must-see! 🚀
🔟 Hum – the smallest town in the world 🏡
Yes, really – Hum officially has only around 30 residents and can still call itself a town.
🧭 Why you need to go:
- Medieval walls, narrow lanes, quiet enchantment
- A peaceful, inspiring place for a short break
- Famous for the liqueur “Biska” 🍶
💡 Tip: Combine Hum with a drive through the beautiful Mirna Valley – especially dreamy in spring and autumn!
📸 Photo moment: The town gate with its inscription and view across the valley – like something from a fairy tale.
9️⃣ Motovun – truffles, wine and a film festival 🎬🍷
This hilltop village looks like an Italian postcard – and feels like one too.
🏞️ What awaits you:
- Cobbled lanes with sweeping views over green hills
- Regional specialties: truffles, olive oil, Malvazija wine
- Every July: an international film festival
💡 Tip: Sit on the town wall with a glass of wine shortly before sunset. Goosebumps guaranteed.
🍽️ Food: Truffle pasta, cheese, wine – a paradise for food lovers. Best enjoyed in one of the small konobas with panoramic views.
8️⃣ Cape Kamenjak – pure nature at the southernmost point 🌊🐚
In southern Istria lies the Cape Kamenjak nature reserve – wild, rugged, authentic.
🌿 What you can experience:
- Snorkeling in secluded coves
- Cliff jumping for the brave
- Cycle paths through fragrant maquis
💡 Tip: Be sure to stop at the “Safari Bar” – one of the coolest places in the whole region. 🌴
🏄♀️ Active: Also ideal for stand-up paddleboarding, diving or simply a long swim in a secluded cove. Pure nature!
7️⃣ Rovinj – Istria's most romantic town 🌅🛶
Rovinj is the quintessential Istrian postcard destination. Venetian lanes, pastel-colored houses and that silhouette with the Church of Saint Euphemia – simply magical.
💞 Why you must experience Rovinj:
- Sunset at the harbor – pure magic
- Discover the artists' street Grisia 🎨
- Swim right below the old-town wall
💡 Tip: Stroll through the old town early in the morning or in the evening – it is often crowded during the day.
🚲 Extra: Rent a bicycle and explore Zlatni Rt Forest Park – among pines, cliffs and quiet bathing coves.
6️⃣ Brijuni Islands – safari & history, Croatian style 🐘🏰
Few people know that the Brijuni Islands (off Fažana) offer not only nature – but also a touch of the exotic.
🦓 What will surprise you:
- Mini safari park with zebras, llamas & more
- Tito's villa & fascinating history
- Ancient ruins in a Mediterranean park landscape
💡 Tip: Take a day trip from Fažana – it is better to book tickets in advance. 🛥️
🕰️ Living history: Brijuni was once a meeting place for politics, film & high society – even Elizabeth II visited.
5️⃣ Pazin – the gorge & the mystery of Jules Verne 📚🌁
In the heart of the green interior lies Pazin – with a mighty gorge directly beneath the old castle.
🌌 What you will find here:
- Jules Verne set a novel here!
- Zip line across the Pazin Gorge
- Stalactite cave beneath the town
💡 Tip: Ideal for a half-day trip combining action & history – exciting for children too!
🧗♂️ Adventure: There are guided cave hikes, zip lines and climbing sections – nature & adrenaline included.
4️⃣ Poreč & the Euphrasian Basilica ⛪🌞
Poreč is a lively coastal town with ancient roots – perfect for anyone who enjoys culture + coast in equal measure.
🏛️ Special highlight:
- The Byzantine Euphrasian Basilica (UNESCO World Heritage Site!) with breathtaking mosaics
💡 Tip: Combine culture with the beach – for example Brulo city beach or a boat trip to Baredine Cave.
🛍️ Shopping & strolling: Poreč has many small boutiques, ice-cream parlors & markets – perfect for a relaxed vacation day.
3️⃣ Grožnjan – the village of music and artists 🎶🖌️
An almost forgotten village high in the hills – yet in summer Grožnjan comes alive with music, exhibitions and international flair.
🎻 What you will find here:
- Studios, galleries & musicians from around the world
- Narrow stone lanes with a magical atmosphere
- Mediterranean slow life at its finest
💡 Tip: Check the events calendar – small open-air concerts are unforgettable.
📷 Photo spot: Every corner of this village is an Instagram dream – no filter needed.
2️⃣ Pula – Roman heritage & the amphitheater 🏟️🪨
Pula is Istria's largest city – and you can feel it. Yet amid the bustle of everyday life stands the imposing Roman amphitheater.
🧱 Why it will amaze you:
- A completely preserved colosseum right by the sea
- Concerts & events in a unique setting
- More highlights: Temple of Augustus, triumphal arch, colorful markets
💡 Tip: Anyone who loves Pula also loves the contrast between antiquity and genuine everyday life. Be sure to explore on your own!
🚉 Extra: Pula also has great street art & night markets – exciting for young people & the young at heart.
1️⃣ Sunset in Rovinj – the heart of Istria 🌇❤️
Yes – Rovinj was already at number 7. But the sunset there is so special that it deserves a place of its own.
🌞 What you will experience:
- Golden light over the old-town skyline
- Shimmering water
- Peace. Magic. The moment when you know: I will return.
💡 Tip: Find a small stone bench by the water. Put your phone away. Just look. And feel.
🍽️ Bonus: What you should eat in Istria
Istria is not only beautiful, but also incredibly delicious:
- Truffle dishes (e.g. fuži with black truffle)
- Ćevapi or grilled calamari
- Cheese, olive oil, Malvazija (white wine)
- Fritule (small doughnuts!)
💡 Tip: Go to konobas where locals eat – away from the tourist crowds. Ask for the dish of the day (“Dnevno jelo”).
🚗 Getting there & getting around
🔹 By car: Easily accessible from Germany, Austria and Switzerland – via Ljubljana or Trieste 🔹 Public transport: Bus connections (e.g. Flixbus) from many cities 🔹 Locally: A rental car or scooter is worthwhile if you also want to explore inland
💡 Tip: Some places such as Rovinj, Grožnjan or Hum are ideal for exploring by bicycle or e-bike – bring your own or rent one!
🧠 Conclusion: Istria is diversity – and heart
From quiet hilltop villages to lively harbor towns, from truffles and wine to the sound of waves and rocky coves: Istria is more than a vacation. It is a way of life. And every corner has its own story – you just have to go there and listen.
Which of these places tops your list? Or do you have your own insider tip in Istria? Tell us in the comments! 💬🇭🇷