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The Hidden Charms of Istria, Croatia: Must-See Sights and Activities

With Pula’s Roman amphitheatre as its main draw and the town of Rovinj giving cool sophistication, coastal Istria, in the northeastern corner of the Croatian Adriatic, near to Italy, has long been a popular vacation spot. Although tourism has only recently begun to explore the interior of Istria, the region’s forested undulating hills and fortified settlements, like Motovun, are strikingly beautiful.

Due to direct flights from London, the port city of Pula makes a convenient base, but you’ll need a rental car to fully explore the area. Fortunately, the roads are peaceful, and a motorway runs from south to north all the way to the Italian border. You can tour vineyards and olive fields to enjoy the greatest wine and olive oil there has to offer.

Pula

The city features the old town, pristine seas, and Roman remains. The 23,000-seat Roman amphitheatre from the first century is amazingly still in tact, though gladiator fights have been replaced by more tranquil cultural events including a film festival, an opera season, and countless concerts during the summer.

Other Roman ruins include the Augustus Temple, which has been preserved as a church, and the Sergii Triumphal Arch, which was built in 27 BC to mark victory at the Battle of Actium. The Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which was constructed in the sixth century, is a magnificent blend of Byzantine and Gothic design. Enter to see the elaborate altars, frescoes, and exquisitely carved marble.

The Venetians arrived in this area in the 15th century and stayed for more than 400 years, leaving a substantial architectural legacy. The Gate of Hercules, an antique Roman triumphal arch that was later adorned with a winged lion in the manner of Venice, is one of the prominent structures from this era. They are also in charge preserving Pula’s old town’s tiny lanes, cute squares, and lovely streets.

Pula joined the Austro-Hungarian Empire in the 19th century and saw significant growth as a naval station and shipyard. The baroque Governor’s Palace and the neoclassical Town Hall are examples of structures from this era. Other structures are a reflection of the period’s architecture, which combines elements of neoclassicism, baroque, and secessionism.

Cape Kamenjak

The protected area of Cape Kamenjak is located at the southernmost point of Istria, about 30 minutes’ drive from Pula. Its varied coastline, which features countless undiscovered coves, rugged cliffs, and stunning pebble beaches, can be explored by hiking or riding trails. The waters there are so pure that swimming and snorkelling are both possible; one of them even has a dinosaur footprint above it.

Rovinj

The tiny hamlet of Rovinj is located just inland and descends a hillside under the watchful gaze of the famous St. Euphemia’s Church tower. A variety of vibrantly coloured buildings house the art galleries, boutiques and craft studios that line its winding cobblestone alleyways. Sophisticates congregate by the harbour for evening cocktails in this instance of cool Croatia at its best.

Limski Kanal

Limski Kanal, which is wrongly described to as a fjord and is located north of Rovinj, is a 12-kilometer-long narrow canal that runs inland. Its sides are bordered by sharp cliffs covered in rich vegetation, which are reflected in the water’s brilliant clarity. It has frequently served as a backdrop for films, most famously “The Vikings” from the 1950s. The Kontija Nature Park, which has a number of well-maintained trails and is perfect for bird watchers, is located on its north bank.

Poreč

Pore, another Roman city, still has the remains of its forum evident in Marafor Square. However, the main draw here is the Euphrasian Basilica, a masterpiece of Byzantine art and architecture from the 4th century that is classified by UNESCO. The interior’s mosaic-covered walls are especially beautiful, and the panoramic views of the town and shoreline are worth the walk up the bell tower.

Grožnjan

Istria’s interior is a lush haven dotted with stunning hilltop towns, rolling hills, and vineyards. The most well-known is Motovun, while Gronjan has similar features and is less visited. The Venetian Gate and the Gate of St. Roch provide entrance to the winding lanes while the ancient walls are still in existence. Many art galleries, including those for pottery, sculpture, and painting, are housed in the classic Istrian stone homes, historic wells, and attractive courtyards.

Hum

With only 20 residents, Hum is the smallest city in the world, according to the Guinness Book of Records. A few homes are enclosed by the walls, and the church of St. Jerolim has 12th-century fresco remnants. Try Buska, a renowned brandy produced only locally. Mistletoe is a major ingredient and is said to have potent medical properties, but the recipe is kept a secret.

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