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Istria
  • Food & wine
  • Beaches
  • Biking
  • Diving
  • Excursions
  • Things to see & do

Things to see & do

From ancient amphitheatres and hilltop towns to hidden caves and coastal paths, Istria is packed with things to see and do. Whether you’re chasing history, nature or adventure, there’s something here to spark every kind of curiosity.
Couple enjoying a romantic moment in the Istrian countryside

Explore the best of Istria

Attractions

Shared charcuterie platter with wine at outdoor table

Things to see in Istria

If you love exploring at your own pace, Istria has no shortage of sights worth seeing. From UNESCO-protected landmarks and Roman ruins to quiet artist towns in the hills, each place reveals a piece of the region’s charm and history. Whether you're wandering cobbled streets, admiring ancient architecture or taking in the views, these are the spots that bring Istria to life. They're perfect for slow travel, thoughtful moments and discovering what makes this region so special.

Explore sights in Istria

Traditional Istrian hospitality in a local kitchen

Pula Arena

Step into history at Pula’s Roman amphitheatre.

Pula Arena
Traditional Istrian hospitality in a local kitchen
The Pula Arena, one of the world’s best-preserved Roman amphitheatres, is the crown jewel of Istria’s cultural heritage. Built between 27 BC and AD 68, its towering limestone walls once hosted gladiator battles and spectacular events. Today, it’s a breathtaking backdrop for concerts, festivals and even open-air film screenings, blending ancient history with modern entertainment. Whether you wander its ancient corridors or simply admire it from afar, the Pula Arena’s scale and history leave a lasting impression.

Type of attraction

historical

Location

Pula

Traditional Istrian hospitality in a local kitchen

Poreč’s old town

Journey through time in Poreč's historic and vibrant old town.

Poreč’s old town
Traditional Istrian hospitality in a local kitchen
A stroll through Poreč’s old town is a journey through time, where cobbled alleys, Roman ruins and Venetian architecture paint a picture of the town’s layered history. The UNESCO-listed Euphrasian Basilica, with its glittering mosaics, is a highlight, but the town’s charming squares, quaint cafés and seaside promenades invite visitors to explore at their own pace. Whether you’re uncovering centuries-old secrets or just soaking up the atmosphere, Poreč delivers authentic Istrian charm.

Type of attraction

historical

Location

the old town is easily accessible on foot from any part of Poreč

Traditional Istrian hospitality in a local kitchen

Brijuni National Park

Sail to Brijuni, an archipelago of beauty and ancient ruins.

Brijuni National Park
Traditional Istrian hospitality in a local kitchen
A short boat ride from the Istrian mainland, Brijuni National Park offers a captivating mix of nature, history and unforgettable landscapes. This archipelago of 14 islands is home to Mediterranean forests, archaeological sites and even a safari park with exotic animals. Once a retreat for Tito and his famous guests, Brijuni now welcomes visitors eager to explore its scenic trails, ancient ruins and fossil-filled beaches, making it one of Istria’s most fascinating natural escapes.

Type of attraction

national park

Location

near Fažana, western Istria

Traditional Istrian hospitality in a local kitchen

Baredine Cave

Discover Istria's hidden beauty in the Baredine karst cave.

Baredine Cave
Traditional Istrian hospitality in a local kitchen
Step beneath the Istrian countryside into the Baredine Cave, a fascinating world of underground wonder. This karst cave reveals dramatic stalactites, stalagmites and underground pools that glow under soft light, creating an almost otherworldly atmosphere. Guided tours lead visitors through five chambers, showcasing formations with whimsical names like the Snowman and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Home to the rare olm salamander, Baredine Cave is both a natural marvel and a testament to Istria’s hidden beauty.

Type of attraction

natural

Location

near Poreč

Traditional Istrian hospitality in a local kitchen

Motovun

Explore Motovun, famous for truffles and timeless charm.

Motovun
Traditional Istrian hospitality in a local kitchen
Perched atop a steep hill, Motovun is the epitome of medieval Istrian charm, with its stone walls, winding streets and unbeatable views over the Mirna River valley. Renowned for its truffle-rich forests and local wines, the town’s cosy taverns and wine cellars invite visitors to savour authentic Istrian flavours. Whether you’re walking along the centuries-old walls or simply enjoying the panoramic scenery, Motovun’s timeless beauty and unique character make it one of Istria’s most iconic hilltop towns.

Type of attraction

historic, cultural

Location

central Istria

Traditional Istrian hospitality in a local kitchen

Grožnjan

Explore galleries and studios in artistic Grožnjan.

Grožnjan
Traditional Istrian hospitality in a local kitchen
A haven for artists, musicians and creatives, Grožnjan is a living art gallery nestled in the Istrian hills. Known as the “Town of Artists”, its cobbled streets are lined with galleries, studios and workshops, filling the air with creativity. Throughout summer, the town comes alive with jazz concerts, open-air exhibitions and craft fairs, all set against a backdrop of stone houses and panoramic vineyards. Grožnjan’s artistic spirit makes it a cultural gem with endless inspiration.

Type of attraction

historic, cultural

Location

central Istria

Activities

Wine tasting on a terrace overlooking Istrian hills

Things to do in Istria

When you're ready to trade quiet sightseeing for a dose of adrenaline, Istria has plenty to offer. Fly through forests on ziplines, climb rope courses, or descend into caves with underground lakes. You’ll also find puzzle-packed escape games in castles and splash-filled water parks perfect for cooling off. It’s not just fun for kids, these activities are a fresh way to shake up your trip and make memories you’ll actually want to talk about.

Explore activities in Istria

Two women enjoying elegant Istrian wines

Pazin Cave

Experience thrilling underground exploration in Pazin.

Pazin Cave
Two women enjoying elegant Istrian wines
Pazin Cave is a fascinating natural site where the Pazinčica River disappears into the earth, carving out a cool, rocky underground world. Guided tours let you explore around 200 metres of its interior, including a large hall and an underground lake. It’s a fun, slightly muddy adventure with narrow paths, ziplines and the sound of flowing water echoing through the cave. If you’re up for a bit of climbing and curiosity, it’s a great way to experience something different in Istria.

Type of attraction

natural

Location

Pazin

Two women enjoying elegant Istrian wines

Sky Fox Adventure Park

Over 50 forest courses await. Ready for a challenge?

Sky Fox Adventure Park
Two women enjoying elegant Istrian wines
Sky Fox Adventure Park in Istria is the perfect playground for thrill-seekers of all ages. Set in a shady oak forest near Poreč, this lively park offers over 50 challenges, high ropes, ziplines and a giant swing. You can climb, balance and zip your way through the trees or just relax at the café under the oaks. With nearby go-karts, off-road trails and paintball, there’s no shortage of action. It’s a fun, active way to experience Istria’s more adventurous side.

Type of attraction

adventure park

Location

Rošini, near Poreč

Two women enjoying elegant Istrian wines

Escape Castle Svetvinčenat

A medieval escape room adventure awaits.

Escape Castle Svetvinčenat
Two women enjoying elegant Istrian wines
Escape Castle Svetvinčenat turns a medieval fortress into your personal playground. Set inside the stunning Morosini-Grimani Castle in Istria, this real-life escape game challenges you to solve puzzles, explore dungeons and unlock secrets as you race to find a legendary sword. You’ll climb towers, sneak through old chambers and test your wits with friends or family. It’s like stepping into a fairy tale - only with more riddles and laughter. Perfect for curious minds and adventure-lovers of all ages.

Type of attraction

cultural, escape game

Location

Svetvinčenat

Two women enjoying elegant Istrian wines

Papago Park

Get up close with colorful birds in a forest sanctuary.

Papago Park
Two women enjoying elegant Istrian wines
Papago Park near Poreč is a playful paradise for bird lovers and families. Spread across 30,000 m² of shady forest, it’s home to over 200 colourful birds like parrots and peacocks, all living in spacious, natural-style aviaries. Wander along 1,300 metres of forest paths, feed the birds, or snap a photo with a curious macaw. With an outdoor classroom and eco-friendly design, it’s a fun, relaxed place to learn, explore and enjoy nature up close.

Type of attraction

natural, animal park

Location

near Poreč

Two women enjoying elegant Istrian wines

Adrenalin Park Kringa

Test your limits on high ropes at Adrenalin Park Kringa.

Adrenalin Park Kringa
Two women enjoying elegant Istrian wines
Adrenalin Park Kringa is a tree-top adventure set in a 19,000 m² oak forest near the village of Kringa in central Istria. With three colour-coded courses ranging from 1.5 to 6 metres high, there’s something for both beginners and thrill-seekers. You’ll climb, balance, swing and zip through the trees, all with top safety gear and helpful instructors. From wobbly bridges to a giant swing, it’s the kind of activity that gets your heart racing.

Type of attraction

adventure park

Location

Tinjan, near Poreč

Two women enjoying elegant Istrian wines

Waterparks

Cool off and have a blast at Aquacolors or Istralandia.

Waterparks
Two women enjoying elegant Istrian wines
Istria is home to two exciting water parks perfect for a fun family day out: Aquacolors near Poreč and Aquapark Istralandia near Novigrad. Both parks offer a great mix of wild slides, wave pools, lazy rivers and splash areas for younger kids. Whether you're chasing thrills or just want to relax in the sun, there’s plenty to keep everyone happy. With food stands, music and space to unwind, they’re ideal spots to soak up the summer and make lasting memories.

Type of attraction

water parks

Location

Poreč, Novigrad

Two women enjoying elegant Istrian wines

Glavani Park

Enjoy high-energy outdoor fun, from ziplines to a human catapult.

Glavani Park
Two women enjoying elegant Istrian wines
Glavani Park near Barban is Istria’s go‑to for high‑energy outdoor fun. Set across 1one and a half hectares of oak woodland, it features Croatia’s largest high‑ropes course with yellow, blue and black routes ending in thrilling 113 m ziplines. Brave the 11 m 3G swing, test your nerve on the Devil’s Causeway suspension bridge with zip lines and unicycle crossing, or launch yourself on the only human catapult in Croatia. There’s even a Quick Jump tower, climbing wall, friendly farm animals and tasty snacks - perfect for a day packed with laughs, adrenalin and unforgettable memories.

Type of attraction

adventure park

Location

Barban

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Valamar Riviera d.d. has accommodation facilities in the Republic of Croatia and the Republic of Austria, where it operates through its branch Valamar Riviera d.d., Zweigniederlassung Austria, Gamsleitenstraße 6, 5563 Obertauern, FN 583355 a (Landesgericht Salzburg), VAT ID: ATU 78289647. Additionally, Valamar is a management company that, based on contracts, manages the tourism segment of the business and offers accommodation services in the facilities of Imperial Riviera d.d., Republic of Croatia, Rab, Jurja Barakovića 2, OIB: 90896496260 and HELIOS FAROS d.d., Republic of Croatia, Stari Grad, Naselje Helios 5, OIB: 48594515409. The term Valamar properties includes accommodation facilities of Valamar Riviera d.d., in Croatia and Austria, as well as accommodation facilities of other companies it manages.

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