Croatia’s Istrian Peninsula dangles off the northwest corner of the country into the Adriatic Sea. Like much of Croatia, the coastline is the big attraction. However, the interior is equally picturesque and has a storied past of its own.
When we opted to base ourselves in coastal Rovinj, we set off on a One Day Tour of Istria to discover more. Our day was spent experiencing the must-see Istria sights – and you can follow in our footsteps!
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Day Tour Of Istria, Croatia
The Istrian Peninsula was once overlooked in favor of Croatia’s Dalmatian Islands (like Hvar and Korcula) or intriguing cities like Dubrovnik and Split.
Today, we think it’s safe to say those days are long gone. Still, one of the best things to do in Istria is to experience the diversity of the region on an excursion.
What To See in Istria, Croatia
Seaside towns steeped in history line the western shore, each exuding unique character. While it can be difficult to part with the teal waters, the region has more to offer.
Medieval hilltop towns that lie inland and regional delicacies are as much a reason to visit Istria as the translucent sea.
When we were deciding what to do in Istria, we knew we wanted to create a tour that covered a range of activities.
Rather than just focusing on Istrian food or joining an Istria wine tour, we were intent on seeing historic spots and quaint villages.
Istria Map Of Day Trip Destinations
Use this Google Map for an interactive map of Istria, Croatia destinations and driving directions.
One-Day Tour of Istria, Croatia
Our full-day Istria tour began early in the morning. We had a private driver shuttle us around the peninsula so that all we had to worry about was enjoying the day!
We suggest allowing 8 hours to see all five towns – plus driving time. Our Istria day tour is ideal for anyone already staying in Rovinj – but it is also possible from nearby Pula, Rijeka or even Zagreb.
#1 Eat and Hunt for Istrian Truffles
The first stop on our tour of Istria was for truffles – the fungus, not the chocolate. And Istria Truffles are a regional delicacy.
While not everyone is a fan of the pungent, high-priced nuggets, it only takes one whiff of the earthy scent to make me swoon.
Our morning mission was to accompany dogs at the Karlic Tartufi Plantation in Paladini on a hunt, but first we had breakfast. It was perhaps one of the most indulgent, flavorful breakfasts to ever pass my lips!
Everything we consumed was accented with truffles, culminating in Karlic’s signature dish, scrambled eggs with truffles. It was absolutely heavenly.
Truffle Hunting in Istria, Croatia
On the hunt, with the taste of truffles still on our breath, we tramped through the forest following a guide and two dogs.
Sniffing their way around the forest floor, the dogs would start digging and our guide jumped in beside them to secure the findings. Their reliable snoots uncovered precious truffles 3 times on our outing.
#2 Drink Istrian Brandy
Is it ever too early to start drinking on vacation? Well, not in Croatia, and especially appropriate when sampling traditional Istrian brandy!
The second stop on our Istria tour was at Aura Distillery in Buzet. The family-run company is intent on producing products ‘just like grandma’ without any preservatives.
Istrian Rakija Tasting and Brandy Distillery Tour
Before diving into the brandy tasting, we toured the small distillery where they produce the fruit brandy, called rakija in Croatia.
We were guided through Aura’s process of using traditional methods and natural ingredients to produce more than 20 flavors of brandy. Then it was time to get serious and start sampling their product.
From the smooth-not-syrupy Teranino to the herb-infused Sage to the unique Olive and Almond – we tried nearly all of them despite the early hour!
#3 Istria Hill Town: Motovun, Croatia
The third stop on our Istria tour had us heading for the hills to Motovun. The medieval town, which is perched like a wedding cake topper, was once protected by walls that included nine gates and seven towers.
It has been inhabited by Celtics, Romans and Venetians – and today is home to about 1000 Croatians.
Motovun, Istria Things To Do
We took a guided tour of Motovun, tracing the remaining city walls and passing through the main square of the upper town that was once surrounded by a moat and drawbridge.
While the historic settlement was remarkable, what really wowed us were the phenomenal views.
#4 Visit Porec, Croatia
After spending the first part of the day in the interior, we moved to the coast to Porec. Like so many of the shoreline Istria towns the local economy relies mostly on tourism.
Swimming in the award-winning clean waters of the lagoons attracts many holidaymakers, but we were more interested in seeing the much-touted basilica.
Top Istria Attraction: Euphrasian Basilica
With part of the Euphrasian church complex dating to the 4th century, it is the centerpiece of Porec’s history.
Ancient tiles are featured throughout, but none are as impressive as the glittering mosaic behind the main altar.
Most of these are still originals and depict the stories of Mary visiting Elizabeth and Angel Gabriel visiting Mary.
#5 Seaside Fairytale in Rovinj, Croatia
We ended our sightseeing tour of Istria in Rovinj. The charming town protrudes into the Adriatic Sea – and we believe it is one of the best places to visit in Istria, if not the entire country!
Cobblestone streets lead up to St. Euphemia Church and the bell tower, which can be seen from afar piercing the sky.
Laundry crisscrosses the streets, strung between the pastel painted stone buildings. Much like Motovun, it isn’t the sights that attract visitors to Rovinj.
The appeal lies in the car-free lanes, the turquoise sea, the magnificent Rovinj Sunsets, the hidden squares and outdoor cafes for enjoying amazing Croatian Wine.
After our long day, we sought out a seaside cafe. We sipped a glass of local Istrian wine while watching fishermen prepare their nets and the sun as it sank into the sea. It was truly the perfect ending!
Istria Day Trip Tips
We have a few more pieces of advice to help you plan your perfect Istria vacation in Croatia!
Planning a Tour of Istria, Croatia
We feel the above outline is the perfect way to tour Istria. That said, there are more things to see in the region.
It would be impossible to fit all of them into one day, but we have a few suggestions for variations of our outlined trip.
Our trip was tailored to our interests, so it included the places and sights that we most wanted to see. Other Istria towns that are top places to visit are Bale, Hum, Umag, Vrsar and Pula.
There is an Istria Day Tour (read reviews) that is similar to our outline (but skips the Truffle Hunting). Other options include a Private Istria Tour and a Hilltop and Wine Adventure.
Where To Stay in Istria
As mentioned, during our visit to Istria we based ourselves in Rovinj. The town is dripping with charm and well-connected to other parts of Croatia by bus.
We stayed in an awesome Airbnb right in the heart of the Rovinj Old Town. You can also check availability and read traveler reviews of Rovinj accommodations on Booking.com.
Before You Go To Istria, Croatia
- Don’t forget to pack a pair of lightweight and comfortable travel shoes for your trip. I (Sarah) went with these by New Balance. Kris prefers ones by Merrell.
- We’re certain you’ll be snapping tons of photos during your adventure in Croatia! Rather than relying on your phone, upgrade to an actual travel camera. We shoot with a Canon Rebel.
- Whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase, you’ll also want a great day bag to organize all your everyday travel essentials!
- If you haven’t already obtained travel insurance, consider traveling protected with World Nomads.
- Get (and stay) organized for your Vacation to Croatia by using our Trip Planning Printables!
Visiting other Top Croatia Destinations? Find our top tips for Hvar, Korcula, Dubrovnik, Split, Zagreb – and many more – on our Croatia Travel Guides Page!
Start planning your trip to Croatia! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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