Travel to Croatia - Istrian Pensinsula

Discover why the Romans named the region Magical Land.

Is Istria the new Tuscany? The Istrian peninsula is unique, but with her strong Italian influences in architecture and food (Pula is only 125 km from Trieste) it is hard not to make comparisons. You could easily spend an entire holiday here. Highlights of the region include Pula, the Brijuni Islands, Rovinj, Porec and Motovun.

Pula’s claim to fame is her magnificent Roman amphitheatre, one of the best preserved in the world. From Pula it is worth taking a day trip to the Brijuni Islands, playground to the rich under the Austro-Hungarian empire, and once President Tito’s private residence.

One of the highlights of Istria is the town of Rovinj where you will feel like you have stepped into Venice. All street signs are in dual language – Italian and Croatian. Rovinj is also home to possibly the best hotel in Croatia, the Monte Mulini.

Close to Rovinj is the village of Livade and as you are in the heart of Croatia’s most important truffle-growing region we highly recommend you experience a truffle hunting demonstration, guided by an expert and a trained dog (pigs are no longer used in Croatia). Top off the experience with a fabulous truffle tasting at a local konoba.

We suggest that you visit the UNESCO town of Porec - sacked by the Goths, conquered by the Byzantines, during medieval times, it opted for Venetian rule but again faced attack from the Genoese and the Austrians, not to mention being inundated by plague and pirates. This tumult of influences has resulted in one of the most beautiful destinations on the Istrian peninsula.

If you have more time, we recommend a stay on the Opatija Riviera. Another former playground of the Austro Hungarian empire you will be in good company as Chekhov, Mahler, Nabakov and Freud all holidayed here. The best place to stay is Lovran, which has several Hapsburg villas, such as Villa Astra, which have been converted into hotels.

For more information on Croatian holidays or a suggested itinerary please call us on 020 89562756 or email us at enquiries@exeterinternational.co.uk or simply request more information above.