Welcome to Istria, the largest peninsula in the Adriatic Sea and a spectacular spot on Croatia’s coast that’s just waiting to be explored. You can immerse yourself in its natural beauty and delve into its cultural heritage. Explore everything from medieval hilltop towns to crystal-clear shorelines. 

You’ll never be stuck for things to do here. Think tasting local wines, truffle hunting, fishing for fresh seafood and scenic drives along the coast. Here are some of our favourites…

Visit Pula Arena 

A visit to Pula Arena is a truly unforgettable experience. This remarkably well-preserved Roman amphitheatre offers a glimpse into ancient history. Built in the 1st century AD, it once hosted gladiator battles and public performances. Today, it’s an iconic landmark in Pula. It’s got a similar vibe to Rome’s colosseum!  

Walking through the arena, you can imagine the roar of the crowds, especially when it could house up to 20,000 spectators back in the day! Pula Arena also hosts plenty of modern events, from concerts to film festivals, so why not keep an eye out and see if anything’s on while you’re there?

See the Lighting Giants 

Want to experience something totally unique? You won’t want to miss the Lighting Giants in Pula! This unique, public art installation has been captivating locals and visitors alike for over ten years!  

You’ll find it in the city's industrial area, and the project involves large, decommissioned cranes that have been transformed into illuminated sculptures. These cranes, once used for loading cargo in Pula's shipyards, now stand as a symbol of the region's industrial past while embracing a more modern style and vibe.  

As night falls, each crane is lit up with vibrant colours, creating a stunning contrast against the dark backdrop of the Adriatic Sea. The Lighting Giants project has not only refreshed an otherwise abandoned industrial space but has also drawn attention to Pula’s rich maritime heritage. Pop by in the evening and snap some fab photos!  

Day trip to Motovun 

This charming hilltop town in central Istria is the perfect postcode for a day trip! You can expect a fascinating blend of history, scenic views and lots of local culture. Start your day by exploring the town’s medieval walls and cobbled streets, which are lined with quaint shops and cafés.  

Next, climb the bell tower for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and forests. Refuel with lunch at a local restaurant, savouring traditional Istrian dishes like truffle pasta or fresh seafood. Don’t forget to visit the Motovun Forest, renowned for its truffles – you might even be able to join a truffle hunting workshop and sample some as fresh as they come!  

Go hiking or cycling 

Love exploring your surroundings on two feet or two wheels? The unique Istrian landscape is waiting! The region is known for its scenic trails, ranging from coastal paths with breathtaking sea views to inland routes through lush forests and vineyards. Popular hiking spots include the Učka Mountain and the trails around Motovun, which provide panoramic vistas and opportunities to experience the rich biodiversity here. Cyclists can take to the Parenzana trail, a former railway line that winds through picturesque towns, tunnels and bridges. Whether you’re tackling challenging hills or exploring gentle countryside routes, it’s the perfect place to explore the great outdoors!  

Sample delicious Istrian cuisine 
Love seafood and truffles? Then you’ve come to the right place! But that’s not all that’s on offer in this tasty region. Go on a delightful culinary journey through rich flavours and local traditions as you tick off some of its regional delicacies.  

Start with truffles which are often paired with pasta or olive oil. Try Istrian prosciutto (pršut) and local cheeses, like the tangy sheep's milk cheese, while sipping regional wines such as Malvazija. Fresh seafood, including squid and shellfish, is abundant along the coast. Don’t miss the hearty stews, like maneštra, and traditional pastries too! 

Take to the water 

Thrilling water sports and the more laidback aqua activities are in abundance here. The crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea make it ideal for activities like kayaking, paddleboarding and sailing, particularly along its picturesque coastline.  

Windsurfing and kitesurfing are also popular in areas like Vrsar and Poreč, where the winds create perfect conditions. For scuba-diving enthusiasts, Istria has numerous diving sites, including shipwrecks and underwater caves for you to explore. The region’s calm, shallow waters also provide excellent conditions for families to enjoy swimming and snorkelling in its bays.  

Whether it’s pure relaxation or all-out adventure you’re looking for on your next holiday, this captivating part of Croatia has it all. Ready to tick off your own Istrian adventure?