Vacation in Croatia in Istria – Beach & Mountains
June 07, 2022Summer is just around the corner, and with it, vacation planning. Why not spend your vacation in Croatia in Istria? The Mediterranean offers countless travel destinations, but Croatian Istria has a special charm. Dreamy bays with lively or secluded beaches, amidst a great variety of nature for relaxing hours, can be found in Istria, as well as mountainous hinterland for an active vacation. Water enthusiasts will get their money's worth in Istria, as will culture fans. There are picturesque towns to admire, fascinating landmarks, and cultural monuments to visit. Additionally, the many delicious specialties, such as fresh seafood, Croatian meat and vegetable dishes, and other culinary delights, offer wellness for the palate.
Vacation in Croatia in Istria – the Green Oasis
Vacation in Croatia on Istria is not just a popular travel destination. The island is also the largest peninsula in the northern Adriatic and is referred to as the green peninsula due to its natural diversity. The green oasis covers an area of 3,500 square kilometers and is located between the Gulf of Trieste and the Kvarner Bay. With a coastline of more than 500 kilometers and many offers for culture, adventure, relaxation, and enjoyment, Istria evokes a Mediterranean lifestyle. The largest part of Istria belongs to Croatia, a part in the north belongs to Slovenia, and some towns in Istria are Italian. In the past, hundreds of thousands of Italians lived in Istria, and the maritime influence is still present. About 200,000 people with Croatian, Slovenian, or Italian roots live on the island today. The currency used in the Croatian region is the currency of Croatia, Kuna, but you can also pay in Euros during your vacation in Croatia in Istria.
In numerous national parks of Croatia, such as the Brijuni National Park or Učka, you can marvel at the diverse wildlife and plant life while hiking. Let yourself be enchanted by the untouched nature at Cape Kamenjak. If you need more action, you can let off steam with mountain biking or paragliding.
Vacation in Croatia in Istria – Relaxation on the Island of the Sun
Similar to the rest of the coastal region of Croatia, you can look forward to numerous hours of sunshine during your vacation in Croatia in Istria. The Mediterranean climate on the large peninsula ensures hot summers and mild winters. There are a total of 320 sunny days and 2400 hours of sunshine per year in Istria, which is why the peninsula is also called the "Island of the Sun." In summer, the sun shines for a full 10 hours a day during your vacation in Croatia in Istria, and the temperatures average 24° C. The bathing season begins here in May. In July and August, the mercury climbs to peak temperatures of up to 40° C, inviting you to cool off in the turquoise blue sea. Istria is not only a popular bathing region but also known for its exciting boat tours with snorkeling and dolphin watching or a kayak tour. Many beaches are also ideal for windsurfing, sailing, and kiting. The most popular surf spots for a vacation in Croatia in Istria include Premantura, Verudela near Pula, Rovinj and Umag near Katoro.
What you should definitely see during your vacation in Croatia in Istria
In addition to beautiful beaches and a high diversity of nature, Istria also has a lot to offer culturally. These Istria attractions are particularly recommended for your vacation in Croatia in Istria:
- Euphrasian Basilica in Poreč
- Amphitheater in Pula
- Cathedral of St. Euphemia in Rovinj
- Diving to the wreck of the Baron Gautsch on Brijuni
- Lim Channel Rovinj
- The smallest town in the world, Hum
Poreč is one of the most beautiful and important cities for a vacation in Croatia in Istria, offering a lot for both beach stays and cultural travelers. A picturesque old town invites you to take a tour, and the small alleys to stroll along the waterfront. The Euphrasian Basilica is considered not only one of the most precious cultural monuments of Poreč but also the most important sacred building in Croatia. Anyone visiting Pula, the oldest and largest city in Istria, should definitely visit the ancient amphitheater. In 1914, the Austrian passenger ship Baron Gautsch sank when it hit a mine. The interesting wreck can be visited today during a dive.
Worth seeing during your vacation in Croatia in Istria: The smallest town in the world
During your vacation in Croatia in Istria, you should also visit Hum. It is the smallest town in the world and is located in Central Istria. The romantic town has only 28 inhabitants and is considered a symbol of medieval culture and architecture. During your vacation in Croatia in Istria, you can reach the small town from Umag, Poreč, Pula, or Rovinj. Speaking of Rovinj, the impressive town lies between Pula and Poreč and is also worth a visit. Fishing boats, sailing ships, and in the background pastel-colored stone houses on the hillside and a historic old town, the impressive coastal town is bursting with energy.
Do you have any further questions about your vacation in Croatia in Istria? Then get in contact with us.