Pula. Split. Istria. Summer. Beach. Sea. Holiday. Yeahhh...

Istria

The centre is unspoiled and mountainous with very old walled cities atop hills with surrounding lush fields. The Istrian seashore is possibly the most developed tourist target in Croatia. Hordes of Italian, German tourists enjoy package tourism during the packed high season.

Although Pula is the main city according to populace and culture, relatively rural Pazin is the managerial hub of the peninsula. The Southern end of Istria is possibly the best point for biking.

Language

Croatian is the official and most common language, but in these previously Venetian lands Italian is nearly universally understood. There is still an Italian cultural community in countless coastal towns. Most restaurants in the main town also have an English speaker or two on staff.

How to get to Istria

Pula is the central transport hub for Istria so most people will land there if they are not driving. Some cruiser lines arrive to Poreč, too. Buses run from Trieste in Italy, Zagreb and other main cities to Pula. Ryanair provides a connection London (Stansted) to Pula three days a week, and Dublin Pula also. Scandjet connects Pula to Oslo and Stockholm once a week (on Saturdays) during the summer. Germanwings also serves Pula. Trains run daily between Ljubljana in Slovenia and Pula, and from Rijeka to Ljubljana. sadly due to historical disaster the two train lines do not meet up despite some works commenced on a rail tunnel to link the two short distances. Venezia Lines is a high speed ferry operator. Operating in the North Adriatic, Venezia Lines links the North Adriatic's coasts of Italy and Croatia.

Tourist Sights in Istria

Roman structures in Pula, including the Arena and Forum. Brijuni (Brioni) Islands - personal playground of General Tito including an international zoo, dinosaur footsteps and Roman and Byzantine ruins. Hill-top villages of Groznjan and Motovun, populated by artist communities

Visit Lovran, Istria, near Opatija, for the Days of Cherries Festival in June. Join the Truffle Days fiesta in the Motovun/Buzet area in late September. Motovun Film event Motovun, Istria

Istrian Cuisine

With diversity at the heart of Istria, you’ll delight in new culinary experiences and reconnect with traditional flavors.

At the coast, fresh fish and seafood are a custom. But the culinary treasure is no doubt the truffles. After the opening of the season, in late September, truffles can be found accompanying any dish and sauce. Especially recommended is pasta with truffles. Also, olive oil with truffles is a typical product of the region.

Cities in Istria: Buje, Motovun, Pazin, Poreč, Pula, Rovinj, Umag

Other destinations in Istria: Beram Limski kanal, Vrsar

About Istria

Its streams flow to the sea through deep valleys and gullies which bring to mind the olden local myths about giants. The view is grand white-topped mountains, flourishing wheat fields, plateaux, valleys, vineyards and olive groves on hillsides, and, finally the sea.