Istrian Riviera Travel Guide
Courtesy of Unsplash.
If you've roamed the charming streets of Europe, but are yearning for a new, enchanting destination, you need to visit the Istrian Riviera of Croatia. The Istrian Peninsula combines history, culture, and stunning natural beauty. Your family will enjoy the sun-soaked coastline, medieval towns, and an enticing blend of Italian and Croatian influences. This is the perfect place for a more off-the-beaten-path experience that caters to the interests of both adults and children alike. The Istrian Riviera will deliver an unforgettable trip filled with diverse activities, mouthwatering cuisine, and family-friendly exploration.
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Where is the Istrian Riviera?
Istria refers to the peninsula in the northwest corner of Croatia. It borders Italy and Slovenia. The largest city in Istria is Pula, Croatia. You can fly into Pula or drive here from other parts of Europe. This is the perfect place to enjoy Istria beaches in the summer. The water is beautiful and there’s so much rugged coastline to explore.
How to Get to Istria
For those traveling within Europe, flying into Pula Airport (PUY) is often the most convenient option to get to the Istrian Riviera, with direct flights available from major European cities. From there, renting a car proves to be the easiest choice, it will give your family the freedom to explore the region at your own pace.
Alternatively, the efficient bus network connecting Pula to neighboring European cities makes for a comfortable and scenic journey. You can check Omio for routes and prices.
For those already in Croatia, train travel is another option, but our family prefers to have a car to have the most freedom and flexibility to explore. Check here for rental car rates.
Driving in Croatia is easy with a modern, well built highway system. There are tolls along the major highways, but paying with card is possible and we never had a problem doing so.
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What to do in Istria
Pula Arena
The Pula Arena is a remarkably well-preserved Roman amphitheater. Constructed in the 1st century AD, this ancient arena is one of the six largest surviving Roman arenas in the world. It was originally built to host gladiator contests and various public spectacles, accommodating up to 20,000 spectators. The amphitheater's elliptical shape and towering stone walls showcase impeccable Roman architecture. Today, it stands as a significant historical and cultural landmark, hosting various events, including concerts, film festivals, and theatrical performances. Get your tickets.
Spend a Day in Colorful Rovinj
Shop, wander, cool off with some gelato. Rovinj is renowned for its charming old town and stunning Adriatic coastline. Wander narrow cobblestone streets, see colorful houses, and take in the distinct Venetian influence in its architecture. Rovinj exudes an enchanting atmosphere. Dominating the town's skyline, is the iconic St. Euphemia's Basilica, offering panoramic views from its bell tower. The town's harbor bustles with fishing boats and is lined with inviting cafes and restaurants serving fresh seafood. You can explore local art galleries, craft shops, and indulge in the Mediterranean ambiance as you stroll along the scenic waterfront or relax on the pebble beaches.
Rent a Boat
Renting a boat has been a lot of fun for our family. The day we spent renting a boat and cruising to nearby islands and beaches was our favorite day of the trip.
In Croatia you are *technically* supposed to have a boating license in order to rent a boat, but some companies will rent you a small, slow boat without it. Ours was about 5 horsepower, slow, but totally fine to explore the peninsula and nearby islands. If you are not comfortable boating alone, you can also hire a skipper for the day for about 100 euros more.
It cost about 120 Euro for the whole day. We cruised around and dropped anchor at 3 different spots to snorkel, swim, and float. The best snorkeling spot was right at the southern tip of the Kamenjak peninsula.
We took our boat to an island restaurant, Cactus on Otok Ceja, and would definitely recommend it! The water here and the view were so pretty.
Beach Hop and Snorkel
The Istrian Riveria beaches are gorgeous. There are so many beautiful beaches in Istria. Here are five of the best family-friendly beaches on the Istrian Peninsula:
Plaža Brulo (Brulo Beach), Poreč: This beach offers shallow, crystal-clear waters ideal for families with young children. It has facilities like playgrounds, beach volleyball courts, and cafes nearby, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable day by the sea.
Plaža Crveni Otok (Red Island Beach), Rovinj: Accessible by a short boat ride from Rovinj, Red Island Beach is nestled in a serene cove. The calm waters, scenic surroundings, and opportunities for water sports make it a hit among families.
Plaža Cuvi (Cuvi Beach), Rovinj: Known for its cleanliness and well-maintained facilities, Cuvi Beach is a pebble beach with gentle slopes into the sea, making it suitable for children. It also has shaded areas and a variety of amenities nearby.
Kamenjak Peninsula Beaches, Premantura: This natural reserve boasts numerous coves and beaches with crystal-clear waters and rocky cliffs. While some areas might not have typical amenities, families can explore the diverse coastline and find quieter spots ideal for snorkeling and enjoying nature.
Plaža Zlatni Rt (Golden Cape Beach), Rovinj: Also known as Punta Corrente, this pebble and rocky beach is situated within a beautiful forested park. Families can enjoy the shade provided by the trees, partake in various outdoor activities, and enjoy the calm waters for swimming.
Snorkeling at Gortan Cove, Istria, Croatia.
Kamenjak National Park
Pay the entry fee of 15 EUR and enjoy this beautiful nature preserve with plenty of beaches, cliffs, and bays to explore. We spent the day at Beach Mala Kolumbarica, a rocky spot in Kamenjak National Park with lots of cliff jumping spots and Safari Bar (a unique spot to eat hidden in the “jungle” near the beach). We saw many people also renting 4-wheelers to explore the preserve, but the roads are made of dirt, so riding on one of those is going to be VERY dusty.
Exploring the rocking coastline in Kamenjak National Park.
Istrlandia Water Park
This waterpark is about an hour drive from Pula. It is better for older kids (around 8 and up) because there was a height requirement on most of the slides and rides. Little kids will enjoy the large splash playground and kids club with several toys, games, and activities throughout the day.
Kids will love playing at Istralandia Water Park.
Day trip to Motovun
This is the go-to spot for Istria wine tasting, Istrian truffle sampling, and enjoying the cuisine of the area.
Explore the Old Town: Wander through Motovun's charming cobblestone streets lined with medieval buildings. Climb the ancient walls for breathtaking panoramic views of the Istrian countryside.
Truffle Hunting Experience: Istria truffles are renowned, and Motovun is a hub for these prized fungi. Families can embark on truffle-hunting tours where trained dogs lead the way through forested areas, showcasing the thrill of the hunt and the discovery of these culinary treasures.
Culinary Delights: Indulge in the local cuisine. Numerous restaurants offer Istrian truffle-infused dishes, allowing families to savor the unique flavors of this region. Don't miss the chance to try truffle pasta or risotto!
Wine Tasting: Istria wines are not to be missed. Families can visit local vineyards and wineries, engaging in wine tastings where adults can sample Istrian wine varietals like Malvasia and Teran. Some places offer non-alcoholic options for younger members of the family.
Cultural Activities: Motovun hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year. Depending on the timing of your visit, you might encounter music festivals, film screenings, or art exhibitions, providing a vibrant cultural experience for all.
Take a Boat out to Brijuni National Park
This is something I have wanted to do on both our visits to Istria, but haven’t found time to fit it in yet. Brijuni National Park, a beautiful archipelago off the Istrian coast, offers an array of activities for visitors to enjoy its natural beauty and history. It is always listed as one of the best places for snorkeling when you research the Istrian Riviera. You can book a private boat tour or go by ferry. Here are other things to do in the National Park.
Sightseeing Tours: Explore the main island, Veli Brijun, via guided tours that take you to significant landmarks like the Roman villa, Byzantine castrum, and the archaeological museum. These tours offer insights into the area's rich history.
Nature Exploration: The national park is abundant in diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can engage in walking or cycling tours to explore the lush landscapes, exotic plants, and wildlife, including deer, peacocks, and more.
Beach Relaxation: Brijuni boasts picturesque beaches with crystal-clear waters. Families can unwind, swim, snorkel, or enjoy various water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.
Golf: The Brijuni Islands feature a golf course, providing a unique opportunity for golf enthusiasts amidst stunning natural surroundings.
Cultural Events: The park hosts cultural events, concerts, and exhibitions, often celebrating local art, music, and traditions. These events offer a glimpse into the cultural heritage of the region.
Fauna Safari: Experience a safari-style tour showcasing the diverse wildlife on the islands, including zebras, llamas, and elephants, brought here during the time when the islands served as a presidential residence.
Zebras at Brijuni National Park, courtesy of Unsplash.
Inflatable Water Parks
These are everywhere along the Croatian coast. Most of them go by the brand Wibit. Use this map to see exact locations, but really you can’t miss them. Just drive 10 minutes on the coast and you’ll find one.
You pay a fee for a wristband that gives you a certain amount of time on the inflatables. You can buy as short as an hour and as long as a week pass sometimes. We normally buy an all day pass because we find our kids will stay entertained all day long. They are happy playing on the park, and we can enjoy some time to relax. They usually have life vests available for use included in the price. If your child is under 5, I would recommend you being on the park with them at all times. Older kids who are good swimmers would be find on their own.
I personally enjoy floating nearby and taking in the entertainment from watching kids and adults jump, slip, and fall off the obstacles. It’s kind of like watching the show Wipeout.
Kids playing on one of the many inflatable water parks along the Istrain coast.
Rent Kayaks
We rented kayaks at Pula Kayak Rent and kayaked over to Galebijana Cave. There are many places to rent kayaks on the Istrian Peninsula and no shortage of beautiful coastline to explore. You can also go on a guided kayak tour if you wish.
Water Ski or Wake Board
Spend an afternoon watching and/or attempting water skiing and wake boarding at Wake Park Pula. This Wake Park operates on a pulley system that pulls water skiers in a big loop in one of the bays. Give it a try or watch from the boardwalk. The water is incredibly blue and clear here with pretty fish swimming around.
Swim, Snorkel, and Cliff Jump at Ciklonska Plaza (Seagull’s Rock)
This is a popular Istria beach area. We hiked away from the main swimming area a bit to get to some of the more secluded spots. This is a really pretty swimming area with many rocky outcrops to explore. You can relax, or if you’re a thrill seeker, enjoy jumping off of cliffs at varying heights.
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Where to Stay in Istria
When choosing where to stay in Istria, consider what type of trip you prefer. There are a range of accommodations from all-inclusive resorts to modest city apartments and even plenty of campgrounds.
On our visits to the Istrian Riviera we stayed once in a house nearby a beach and the second time at a glamping resort. We enjoyed both but they offer different things.
More Pula Area Properties to Consider:
App Max (apartment near great beaches and not far from Pula Arena
Houseboat Stay (rent a houseboat for your family, complete with rooftop jacuzzi)
Grand Hotel Brioni (luxe resort on the water with a pool)
Penthouse Gea (lovely looking apartment near the Kamenjak Nature Preserve)
If you love to stay in cute, pedestrian friendly, colorful, small towns consider staying in Rovinj. This is where I would love to stay if I went back without my kids. Here’s some properties that look amazing:
You can’t go to Istria and not try a dish with truffles!
What to Eat in Istria
Istria boasts many delectable culinary options that will have your mouth watering with its unique blend of flavors. Here are some regional dishes you should try:
Istarski pršut, (Istrian ham) is a mouthwatering prosciutto crafted from locally raised pork, seasoned with sea salt, and aged for over a year.
Fritaja, an irresistible dish of fluffy omelet infused with wild asparagus, truffles, or various local cheeses.
Istarska supa, a traditional fisherman's stew brimming with freshly caught seafood, simmered in a fragrant broth seasoned with Istrian olive oil and locally grown herbs.
Truffles, the crown jewel of Istrian cuisine. Truffles elevate dishes with their earthy aroma and distinct flavor, notably featured in dishes like "Fuzi s tartufima," a pasta dish adorned with these prized fungi.
Ćevapi, or Ćevapčići, are small, grilled sausages made from a mix of minced meats, typically a combination of beef, pork, or lamb, seasoned with various spices like garlic, paprika, and sometimes onion. The mixture is formed into finger-sized sausages and grilled, imparting a smoky flavor. Served traditionally with flatbread (somun or lepinja), chopped onions, and a side of ajvar (a roasted red pepper and eggplant spread) or kajmak (a creamy dairy condiment). This is a staple for us when we go to Croatia. It’s usually a favorite with kids but we also enjoy it as adults.
Cedevita is a popular powdered vitamin drink mix in Croatia. It's a flavored, effervescent powder that dissolves in water, creating a fizzy, vitamin-infused beverage. Cedevita is known for its ability to provide a quick boost of vitamins, especially vitamin C. It's a go-to drink for many Croatians, enjoyed as a refreshing and tasty way to supplement daily vitamin intake. When you order it at a restaurant, it will come as a packet attached to a straw with a glass of water for you to mix on your own. We like to buy a big container of it at a grocery store and then add it to water ourselves at the beach or when we go out to eat.
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Pack your sunny wardrobe, hats, and don’t miss the most important item below!
What to Pack for Croatia
The number one thing you must pack if you will be visiting the Istrian Riviera is water shoes! All these beaches are rocky, sometimes painful to walk on, and in the water sea urchins are very common. The thicker the sole on your water shoes, the better to prevent accidental pokes by the urchins. My water shoes are no longer for sale, I love them and had them for years now. But if you can see my water shoe recs here. Make sure you get some with a strap around your heel.
Other things to pack:
Sunscreen, I prefer to buy this at European grocery stores. I look for ones that translate as “sun milk” because they absorb so much easier.
Lightweight towels that fold up small.
Comfortable floatie, you can buy these also at the beach but most of the time it is a better deal to buy them in advance. We have these!
Buckets and Nets for collecting special rocks, shells, and maybe even a critter or too from the tide pools.
Sun hats for you and your kids.
Waterproof case for your phone or Go-Pro to capture all your oceanside memories. Technically iPhones are waterproof now but I think the saltwater isn’t the best for your phone.
Beautiful Dubrovnik from above. Courtesy of Unsplash.
Extend your Croatia Trip
If you’re ready to continue exploring Croatia, here are more of our favorite destinations:
Plitvice National Park: This National Park is amazing. There are so many waterfalls and the paths have you really walking amongst nature with wooden walkways directly over the pristine water. Ideally, you should visit outside of the summer high season. It looks beautiful all year long. One day is good but 2 days would be even better.
Trogir: I am personally not a big fan of Split, Croatia. I prefer the smaller towns nearby. We really enjoyed our stay in Trogir, a smaller town north of Split on the coast.
Hvar Island: From Split you can take a ferry out to the islands. Hvar is the closer island and can be reached by ferry in just over an hour. If you’re a family visiting Hvar I would recommend staying in Stari Grad versus Hvar Town which is more of a nightlife hotspot.
Brac Island: Brac is also off the coast of Split and can be reached by ferry. The Zlatni Rat beach is gorgeous and full of family entertainment. There are also many smaller beaches that offer stunning views.
Dubrovnik: This medieval walled city is beautiful. Expect it to be very crowded in the summer. If you can visit outside of the summer season, you’ll be rewarded with lower crowds. Enjoy wandering the car free area, taking in the views from the city walls, kayaking the coastline, or taking the cable car up the mountain behind it for a bird’s eye view.
Embarking on a family adventure to Istria, Croatia, unveils a treasure trove of experiences that cater to every family member, promising an unforgettable getaway! From the charming old towns, truffle hunting, wine tasting, to the natural beauty of the coastline, Istria captivates at every turn.
The region's family-friendly beaches and waterparks will provide summer fun for kids and adults alike. With a blend of history, outdoor adventures, gastronomic delights, and cultural experiences, Istria stands as an ideal destination for families seeking a balance of relaxation, exploration, and lasting memories.
