Five reasons to visit the Istria region

Istria is a fascinating region with something for everyone. If you have a vested interest in history, are an admirer of architectural heritage, lover of nature, festival go-er, or a gastronomy expert: we are certain you’ll appreciate all that Istria has to offer!

Below you can read the five reasons (although there are many more) why we believe Istria should be at the top of your bucket list!

1. Istria’s world-renowned gastronomy 

For food and wine enthusiasts… Istria is the place to be! 

With rolling wide valleys and gentle hills - perfect for wine and olive oil cultivation - Istria regularly wins international awards for both. You can visit Livade (known as “Truffle Central”) where there are several places where you can learn about this delicious delicacy; taste it, and even go foraging with a truffle hunter. For wine, Wine Hotel Cattunar is a great place to stay and just minutes away from Livade - situated in a tiny village called Nova Vas. The Istrian wine story is worth hearing and the white Malvasia and red Teran, both indigenous from this region, win awards including from Decanter of London.

To experience fine dining at its best, visit Croatia’s first Michelin star restaurant at Monte in Rovinj. It still holds the star and has been joined by Agli Amici which also has one star. La Puntulina and Cap Aureo in Rovinj are Michelin recommended too.

Just under 15 minutes away from Pula is the Vodnjan area which often wins prestigious awards worldwide for “the best” olive oil. Here you can partake in tours and authentic tastings. We like Chiavalon, owned by two brothers who started picking olives as teenagers in the family’s olive groves – now among the best in the world (bookable at hotels Park Plaza Histria and Park Plaza Arena).

2. Amazing National Parks  

Istria is home to one of Croatia’s most beautiful National Parks: the stunning Brijuni Islands. The Brijuni Islands were declared a National Park in 1983 and include 14 islands and islets just northwest of Pula, across the Fazana Channel. Covered by meadows, parks, and oak and laurel forests, the flora and fauna here is spectacular. 

The largest island, Veliki Brijun, can be visited by boat departing from Pula. Nature and the human touch blend harmoniously here. You can witness fantastic natural landscapes and architectural heritage on an excursion beginning at the eastern side of the island. Embark on a one-hour train ride, along the coast and all the way to the north of the island where the safari park is located. Throughout the journey you will see Roman remains, a Venetian citadel, old farm buildings and villas built in the early 20th century at the time when the Austrian Kupelwieser family fell in love with and purchased the island. 

3. True escapism

For true escapism, why not stay on Veliki Brijun?

Veliki Brijun (unlike the other 14 Brijuni islands) is inhabited. The only other residents are deer, peacocks and rabbits which roam wild and the animals that live at the open safari park.

There are only two hotels on the whole island, and we feature both, as well as two villas! Often, it can feel as though you have the entire place to yourself. Experience many swimming spots, hectares of well-maintained, green parkland, surrounded by the dazzling blue Adriatic and planted with avenues of ancient pine trees. Hire a bicycle or a golf buggy to explore, and allow your children to run free, safe in the knowledge that the island is car free. 

A holiday on Veliki Brijun is unique and guests have unlimited free tickets across to Fazana.

4. Deep rooted history 

Pula rejoices in a mix of Roman heritage, including the Arch of the Sergians, Roman Forum, Temple of Augustus and more. Archaeologists claim that over 70% of Pula contains Roman ruins and artifacts if it were all excavated. 

As a mark of just how important the city was to the Romans (who called it Pola), they built their sixth largest amphitheatre here with a capacity of 22,000; way beyond the city’s population at that time. It was constructed between 27BC and AD68 under the reign of several different emperors.

Istria also has a Communist past. After World War 2, the Brijuni archipelago, along with the rest of the Istria region became part of Tito’s Yugoslavia. Brijuni became his base where he conducted high level diplomacy with world leaders, and he often stayed here for many months at a time. 

5. Buzzing festival scene 

Throughout the year, Istria hosts a variety of festivals and events. The Porec Summer Festival is one of the most varied events in Croatia. Running from June until September, with many events outdoors. There are wine fairs, jazz concerts, open-air theatre, dance events and the wonderful “cinema under the stars” in the grounds of the Villa Polesini.

Other well-known events include the Pula Food Tour, Rovinj Music Summer Festival, and a month-long truffle festival in and around Livade and Buzet.

To learn more about the Istria region you can contact our expert team on 020 8758 4758.