Top Reasons to Travel to Istria, Croatia

Istria, Croatia
Istria, Croatia. Photo by David Boca on Unsplash

Istria is a hidden gem in Croatia. It’s a heart-shaped peninsula boasting a lush interior full of truffle-rich forests, fertile valleys, olive groves, among others. With plenty to discover, we bring the best for your next vacation:

Exceptional Hilltop Towns

Istria’s charming beauty is evident through its rural landscape of undulating hills, with medieval villages perched on top. One of the renowned hilltop towns is Motovun, the birthplace of a racecar driver, Mario Andretti. The town boasts a 13th-century bell tower, municipal palace, cobbled streets, and shops selling local products.

Truffles, Wine, and Olive Oil

Istria’s soil composition and microclimate make it ideal for producing wine and olive oil. The lush forest in the Valley of Mirna River is also an ideal location for truffle hunting. In addition, its proximity to clean and clear waters of Kvarner Gulf provides succulent seafood. There’s plenty of rustic taverns and family-run farms serving traditional cuisine.

Seaside Vistas

The rolling hills of Istria’s bucolic interior make way for robust fishing villages and seaside port towns. While visiting, be sure to sample the fresh seafood at one of the many waterfront restaurants, including La Puntulina. It’s a perfect place to watch the sun kiss the sea as it sets for the evening.