Things to Do in Istria 2026: Rovinj, Pula Arena & Truffle Hunting

Istria offers a distinct experience from Dalmatian Croatia — Roman ruins, Venetian hill towns, truffle forests, and some of the best local wines in the country. The peninsula is compact enough to cover multiple towns in a 3–5 day stay. All prices in euros (€).

Rovinj

Walk the Old Town peninsula

Rovinj’s most essential activity. The car-free Old Town sits on a low-lying peninsula of colourful Venetian-era buildings, narrow cobbled alleys, and a harbour full of fishing boats. Walk from Balbi’s Arch up through Grisia Street to St. Euphemia’s Basilica for the best of the town in a few hours.

• Cost: Free

Climb St. Euphemia’s bell tower

The campanile modelled after Venice’s St. Mark’s offers panoramic views over the town, harbour, and the surrounding islands. A short but rewarding climb.

• Admission: €5

Golden Cape (Zlatni Rt) forest park

Pine forest and coastal trails on the edge of Rovinj, with pebble coves and clear water. Good for hiking, cycling (bike rental approx. €10–15/day), or simply reaching a quieter beach.

• Admission: Free (beach lounger rental €8–15 extra)

Sunset dolphin cruise

Two-hour cruises around the Rovinj archipelago departing late afternoon, with dolphin watching and a swim stop.

• Price: €35–70 per person

Lim Fjord boat or kayak trip

A fjord-like canal where the Lim River meets the Adriatic, with green walls, oyster beds, and calm water ideal for kayaking.

• Price: €30–70 per person depending on duration

Pula

Pula Arena

One of the best-preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world, built in the 1st century AD and still used for concerts and events. The interior museum explains the building’s history.

• Admission: €12–18

Pula Roman forum and Temple of Augustus

The Roman forum at the centre of Pula, dominated by the well-preserved Temple of Augustus dating to the early 1st century AD.

• Admission: €3–5 for the temple interior

Cape Kamenjak

A protected nature reserve at the southern tip of the Istrian peninsula with wild beaches, swimming coves, and walking trails. Particularly good for snorkelling and cliff jumping.

• Entry: Free for pedestrians; small charge by car

Istrian hill towns

Motovun

The most visited hill town, surrounded by truffle forests. The walls offer views over the Mirna River valley. Accessible by road — steep final approach on foot.

Grožnjan

An artists’ colony village with galleries, summer music festivals, and a quieter atmosphere than Motovun.

Oprtalj, Buzet, and Buje

Further hill towns for those driving through the Istrian interior — each has Venetian walls, a central square, and panoramic views.

Brijuni Islands National Park

A national park archipelago accessible by ferry from Fažana (near Pula), with walking trails, Roman ruins, a safari park, and a golf course on the main island. Day trips only for most visitors.

• Ferry and park admission: €18–25

Truffle hunting

Organised truffle hunting tours leave from Motovun and surrounding villages, typically involving a walk through oak forests with trained dogs. Black truffles are available year-round; white truffle season peaks in October–December.

• Price: €40–70 per person

Wine tasting

Malvazija (white) and Teran (red) are the signature Istrian wines. Several family wineries and larger estates offer tastings, often paired with Istrian prosciutto and cheese.

• Price: €20–35 per tasting

Price summary

Activity	Price
St. Euphemia bell tower (Rovinj)	€5
Golden Cape park	Free
Dolphin cruise (Rovinj)	€35–70
Lim Fjord kayak	€30–70
Pula Arena	€12–18
Brijuni Islands ferry	€18–25
Truffle hunting	€40–70
Wine tasting	€20–35