Holiday in Istria

About Istria

Istria, the heart-shaped peninsula at Croatia's northwest tip, is a Mediterranean jewel that combines the best of Italy, Austria, and Croatia. The coast shines with the picturesque Rovinj — a fishing town built on a peninsula, whose colorful houses and the Church of St. Euphemia create one of the most photogenic silhouettes of the Adriatic. Pula is home to a Roman amphitheater from the 1st century, which is among the best-preserved in the world and serves as an open-air stage for concerts and film festivals in the summer. The ruins of the Temple of Augustus at the Forum and the Arch of the Sergii complement the Roman heritage. Poreč attracts visitors with the Euphrasius Basilica (UNESCO World Heritage) and its magnificent Byzantine mosaics. The Istrian hinterland is a world of its own: medieval hilltop towns like Motovun, Grožnjan, and Oprtalj crown mountain peaks above green wooded valleys. Motovun is the center of truffle culture — from October to January, the coveted white truffle is found here, and truffle festivals attract gourmets from all over Europe. Istrian olive oils regularly rank among the best in the world (Flos Olei Guide), and the indigenous grape varieties Malvasia and Teran surprise even seasoned wine connoisseurs. The coast offers crystal-clear waters, hidden rocky coves, and family-friendly pebble beaches. The Limski Canal, a fjord-like arm of the sea, is ideal for boat trips and fresh oysters. Istrian cuisine is a fusion of Italian and Slavic traditions: Fuzi pasta with truffles, Pršut (air-dried ham), and fish soup. Just a few hours from Munich or Vienna, Istria is the perfect destination for a Mediterranean short vacation with depth.