Hey friend! If you’ve landed here, it means you’re curious about Istria—and trust us, you should be. As a local who gets to wake up to this incredible region every day, I’m here to spill the beans on all the best things to do in Istria. Think hilltop towns, dreamy coastlines, truffle-loaded pasta, world-class wine, and that golden Mediterranean light that makes everything feel like a postcard.
From ancient ruins to secret coves you can only reach by boat (yep, we’ve got you covered there), here’s the ultimate guide to the top 20 things to do in Istria in 2025—straight from a local who’s stoked to share it with you.
Top things to do in Istria: 1-5
1. Explore Rovinj: The Pearl of the Adriatic
Let’s start with home base. Rovinj is hands-down one of the most charming towns on the planet, packed with things to do. With cobbled streets, colorful houses, and a harbor that looks like it was made for sunsets, it’s the perfect jumping-off point for your Istrian adventure.
What to Do:
- Wander the Old Town’s narrow alleys.
- Climb to the Church of St. Euphemia for panoramic views.
- Grab a gelato and watch the fishing boats come in.
Things to do in Istria – Local Pro Tip:
Rent a boat with us at Rent a Boat Rovinj by Mare Media and explore the Rovinj archipelago. The views of the old town from the sea? Unreal. You’ll also get access to hidden beaches and coves most tourists never find.
2. Eat Truffles in Motovun
Motovun is a medieval hilltop town that feels like a fairytale—and it’s the truffle capital of Istria. Truffle pasta, truffle cheese, truffle oil… you get the idea.
What to Do:
- Stroll the ancient city walls for sweeping valley views.
- Dine at a konoba (local tavern) and order fuži s tartufima (homemade pasta with truffles).
- Visit during the Motovun Film Festival for a unique cultural experience.
Things to do in Istria – Local Pro Tip:
Book a truffle hunting tour with a local guide and trained dogs. It’s half hike, half treasure hunt, and you might even score your own black or white truffle to take home.
3. Sip Wine in the Istrian Hills
Istria’s wine scene is fire—and criminally underrated. From crisp Malvazija whites to bold Teran reds, there’s something for every palate.
What to Do:
- Visit local wineries like Kozlović, Kabola, and Roxanich.
- Join a wine tasting and meet the winemakers.
- Pair your vino with local cheese and prosciutto.
Things to do in Istria – Local Pro Tip:
Skip the big highways and take the scenic wine roads through Brtonigla, Momjan, and Grožnjan. Better views, better vibes.
4. Visit Pula’s Roman Arena
Yes, we’ve got Roman ruins in Istria, and the Pula Arena is one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. It’s massive, ancient, and still hosts events today.
What to Do:
- Explore the underground tunnels where gladiators used to wait.
- Catch a concert or movie screening inside the arena if you’re here in summer.
- Check out the Temple of Augustus and the Forum nearby.
Things to do in Istria – Local Pro Tip:
Visit early in the morning or at golden hour to avoid the crowds and get the best photos. Then head to the nearby market for fresh produce and Istrian specialties.
5. Swim in Cape Kamenjak
Cape Kamenjak, near Premantura, is a rugged peninsula with dramatic cliffs, turquoise coves, and serious “hidden paradise” energy.
What to Do:
- Cliff jump into crystal-clear water.
- Snorkel around underwater caves.
- Grab a cold drink at Safari Bar—an eclectic beach shack hidden in the pines.
Things to do in Istria – Local Pro Tip:
Bring reef shoes and cash (no card readers here). Also, go early or late in the day for that cinematic, untouched vibe.
Top things to do in Istria: 6-10
6. Discover Grožnjan: The Town of Artists
Grožnjan is a bohemian hilltop village filled with art galleries, music festivals, and stunning stone houses draped in ivy.
What to Do:
- Wander through art studios and talk to the local artists.
- Listen to live jazz echoing through the alleyways.
- Take in the panoramic views of the Mirna Valley.
Things to do in Istria – Local Pro Tip:
Time your visit with the Grožnjan Jazz Festival or just come during the week to avoid the weekend rush. Also, the sunset from the old town walls? Breathtaking.
7. Sample Olive Oil in Vodnjan
Did you know Istria’s olive oils are world champions? Vodnjan is the epicenter of liquid gold production.
What to Do:
- Tour local olive oil estates like Chiavalon and Brist.
- Learn how extra virgin oil is made and how to taste it like a pro.
- Pick up a bottle or two to bring home.
Things to do in Istria – Local Pro Tip:
Ask for a tasting comparison between oils from different olive varieties—it’ll blow your mind how different they taste.
8. Visit the Brijuni Islands
A short boat ride from Fažana, the Brijuni Islands are a national park and former presidential retreat. Think nature, history, and pristine beaches all rolled into one.
What to Do:
- Rent a bike and explore the main island’s ancient ruins.
- Visit Tito’s old safari park (yes, really).
- Swim in turquoise bays with almost nobody around.
Things to do in Istria – Local Pro Tip:
Pack a picnic and bring snorkel gear. There are no major beach bars here, and that’s exactly the point.
9. Cruise the Coastline by Boat
This might be my personal favorite—because nothing beats the Istrian coastline by sea. Rent a boat, feel the wind in your hair, and explore the Adriatic like a boss.
What to Do:
- Discover hidden beaches only reachable by boat.
- Snorkel around St. Andrew Island.
- Join a dolphin tour (yep, we do those!) and watch them play at sunset.
Things to do in Istria – Local Pro Tip:
Bring a Bluetooth speaker, sunscreen, and a cooler stocked with local wine and snacks. And trust us—sunset at sea is a memory you’ll keep forever.
10. Try Istrian Cuisine: Don’t Count Calories
Food in Istria is a next-level fusion of Mediterranean and Central European flavors. Think seafood, truffles, wild asparagus, homemade pasta, and heart-melting desserts.
What to Do:
- Order pljukanci (hand-rolled pasta) or brodet (fish stew).
- Snack on fritule (mini donuts) with rakija.
- Try a konoba in the countryside for the real-deal local experience.
Things to do in Istria – Local Pro Tip:
Ask for the house wine—it’s usually homemade and delicious. Also, meals are slow and social here. Take your time, enjoy every bite, and don’t rush.
Top things to do in Istria: 11-15
11. Visit Hum, the Smallest Town in the World
With a population of just a few dozen, Hum is officially the smallest town in the world. It’s quirky, charming, and steeped in legend.
What to Do:
- Walk the cobbled streets and check out the medieval architecture.
- Try local brandy called “biska.”
- Visit the Glagolitic Alley and stone sculptures.
Things to do in Istria – Local Pro Tip:
Stop at a local konoba for a rustic meal with homemade rakija—you won’t regret it.
12. Go Cycling on the Parenzana Trail
The Parenzana Trail, a former railway line turned bike trail, cuts through some of the prettiest landscapes in Istria.
What to Do:
- Rent a bike and ride from Vižinada to Motovun.
- Take in vineyards, tunnels, and bridges.
- Stop in small villages along the way.
Things to do in Istria – Local Pro Tip:
Bring snacks, water, and a camera—you’ll want to capture every minute.
13. Discover the Waterfalls of Kotli
Tucked inland near Buzet, Kotli is a tiny village with magical waterfalls and old water mills.
What to Do:
- Hike to the turquoise pools.
- Snap photos of the stone bridges and waterfalls.
- Swim in the natural basins.
Things to do in Istria – Local Pro Tip:
Go early in the day to beat the crowds and enjoy the peaceful vibe.
14. Experience Pazin’s Cave and Zipline
Want a little adventure? Pazin is your spot. The town sits above a deep canyon, and the zipline across it is a thrill.
What to Do:
- Zipline over the gorge.
- Visit the Pazin Castle and Ethnographic Museum.
- Explore the cave system below.
Things to do in Istria – Local Pro Tip:
Combine this with a visit to nearby Beram and its 15th-century frescoes for a culture-and-adrenaline combo.
15. Catch the Sunrise in Labin
Labin is an artsy town perched above the Adriatic with a quiet, soulful charm.
What to Do:
- Walk the old town’s galleries and shops.
- Watch the sun rise over Rabac and the sea.
- Visit the mining museum.
Things to do in Istria – Local Pro Tip:
Come here for a quieter, more reflective experience—and breakfast with a view.
Top things to do in Istria: 16-20
16. Dive in Vrsar’s Underwater Sites
Vrsar is a diver’s paradise with wrecks, reefs, and marine life.
What to Do:
- Book a diving trip with a local club.
- Explore the Baron Gautsch wreck.
- Swim with octopuses and starfish.
Things to do in Istria – Local Pro Tip:
Not a diver? No problem—Vrsar’s beaches are great too, and the marina’s got awesome seafood.
17. Attend a Local Festival
Istrians love their festivals—from wine and olive oil to jazz, film, and folklore.
What to Do:
- Check out the Truffle Days in Livade.
- Dance at the Seasplash reggae fest in Pula.
- Join local food and wine tastings.
Things to do in Istria – Local Pro Tip:
Always ask what’s happening locally when you arrive—there’s probably something cool going on.
18. Take a Boat to Lim Fjord
This dramatic, fjord-like inlet is a dreamscape of steep green cliffs and calm, deep waters.
What to Do:
- Visit oyster and mussel farms.
- Hike above the cliffs for the view.
- Kayak or boat through the gorge.
Things to do in Istria – Local Pro Tip:
We offer boat rentals that are perfect for cruising Lim Fjord—bring your appetite, the seafood is insanely fresh.
19. Relax at a Thermal Spa in Istarske Toplice
Need a break from all the exploring? Head to the hills for a soak in Istria’s thermal waters.
What to Do:
- Chill in healing hot springs.
- Book a massage or wellness treatment.
- Explore nearby ruins and nature trails.
Things to do in Istria – Local Pro Tip:
Go in the off-season (spring or fall) for a truly peaceful experience.
20. Watch the Sunset from a Coastal Lighthouse
Istria has several picturesque lighthouses with stunning views.
What to Do:
- Visit Savudrija or Porer lighthouse.
- Watch the sky explode in color.
- Enjoy the salty breeze and crashing waves.
Things to do in Istria – Local Pro Tip:
Bring a bottle of wine, some local cheese, and just soak in the moment. It’s pure magic.
What are your favorite things to do in Istria?
Istria is more than a destination—it’s a feeling. It’s the scent of pine trees and sea salt, the taste of truffle on fresh pasta, the clink of glasses filled with Malvazija as the sun sinks behind a stone village. Whether you’re wandering ancient towns, sailing the Adriatic, or discovering flavors you didn’t even know existed, there’s always something new and exciting around the corner.
If you’re planning a trip, make Rovinj your home base and explore from there. And don’t forget—we’re here at Rent a Boat Rovinj by Mare Media to help you experience the coast like a local. Want a private beach? Done. Want to see dolphins at golden hour? We’ll take you there. Want to fall in love with the things to do in Istria like we did? Just hop on board.
See you out there, adventurer!
Need more expert travel tips? Check out our article on the best beaches in Rovinj and our month-by-month breakdown for weather in Rovinj!
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