Planning a trip to Croatia and looking for the perfect mix of seaside charm, historic towns, and countryside escapes? This 7-day Istria itinerary is the perfect way to explore the Istrian Peninsula, one of the most beautiful and underrated regions in northern Croatia.
Before this trip, I had only spent a long weekend in Rijeka and the Kvarner region. But I knew right away I had to return and see more, and Istria didn’t disappoint.
From the cobbled streets of Rovinj to the Roman ruins of Pula, scenic bike rides, hilltop villages, and crystal-clear beaches, this region offers a bit of everything at a slower pace.
This itinerary is fully adjustable based on your travel style and time, whether you want to split your stay between Rovinj and Pula or just base yourself in one spot and explore from there.
Let’s dive in and plan your dream week in Istria!
Your Ultimate 7-Day Istria Itinerary
Not sure what to see in Istria or how to fit it all into one week? This itinerary takes you through the best towns, coastal gems, and scenic countryside: from charming Rovinj to Roman Pula, wine-soaked hilltop villages, and dreamy beach escapes.
Get ready for a week of unforgettable views, local flavours, and some of the best things to do on the Istrian Peninsula.
Day 1-2: Discover the Charm of Rovinj
Rovinj, tucked along the western coast of the Istrian Peninsula, is one of Croatia’s most picturesque seaside towns. With pastel-colored houses, cobbled alleyways, and fishing boats swaying in the harbour, it feels like stepping into a postcard.
We instantly fell in love with the relaxed vibe here. The Old Town is a joy to explore; full of hidden staircases, quirky galleries, and spots where you can sit by the sea and just watch the world go by.
Spend your first couple of days unwinding and letting Rovinj work its magic. Walk along the waterfront, cycle to one of the local beaches, sip coffee with a view, and catch golden hour from the rocks below the church. It’s the perfect introduction to Istria’s charm.
How to Get to Rovinj
The nearest airport to Rovinj is Pula Airport (PUY), located about 40–45 minutes away by car or shuttle. It’s served by seasonal flights from across Europe. From the airport, you can:
- Rent a car for flexibility during your Istria trip
- Book a private transfer directly to your accommodation
- Use a shuttle service or local bus via Pula
Although we started our trip in Pula and later moved on to Rovinj, next time we’d definitely begin here. Rovinj just has that instant “holiday mode” feeling. The town is small, so everything is easily accessible on foot or by bike.
Things to Do in Rovinj
There’s no shortage of things to do in Rovinj, but we recommend starting slow. Spend your first day settling in, then explore these highlights:
- Old Town Strolls: Get lost in the cobbled lanes of Rovinj’s Old Town. From Balbi’s Arch to the Church of St. Euphemia, every corner reveals another photo-worthy view
- Sunset by the Sea: Grab a drink at a waterfront bar or sit on the rocks below the city walls; the golden hour light here is magical
- Beach Hopping: On your second day, walk or cycle to nearby beaches like Mulini Beach, Lone Bay, and Golden Cape Forest Park for swimming and sunbathing
- Coffee with a View: Stop by the terrace bar at Grand Park Hotel for affordable luxury and one of the best panoramic views over Rovinj’s skyline
- Dolphin-Spotting or Sunset Cruise: Check out the harbour for evening boat tours. It’s perfect for seeing Rovinj from the water
Where to Stay in Rovinj
Rovinj has a great mix of accommodation for every budget: from cosy guesthouses and boutique apartments to luxurious seaside resorts. Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape or a family-friendly base, you’ll find plenty of great options.
If you’re planning a one-week Istria itinerary, consider splitting your stay between Rovinj and Pula. Spending 3 nights in each town gives you the perfect balance to explore both the coast and the countryside without rushing.
Here are a few top picks:
- Budget: Rooms Barbieri, Apartments La Casa di Loreto
- Mid-range: Villa Dobravac B&B, Casa Amando Eco Boutique House
- Luxury: Grand Park Hotel Rovinj, Hotel Lone, Family Hotel Amarin
Day 3: Explore the Istrian Countryside – Vineyards, Hilltop Towns & Hidden Gems
After a couple of dreamy coastal days, it’s time to swap the sea breeze for vineyard views. Central Istria is dotted with medieval villages, rolling hills, and some of the best food and wine in Croatia. It’s one of the most scenic and peaceful parts of the region, and ideal for a day trip from Rovinj.
Here’s how to spend your day discovering the highlights of inland Istria:
Motovun – The Iconic Hilltop Town
This medieval gem is one of the most famous places to visit in Istria, perched high above the Mirna Valley and surrounded by lush vineyards and truffle-rich forests.
- Wander cobbled streets lined with stone houses and colourful shutters
- Enjoy sweeping views over vineyards and truffle forests
- Try local specialities like fuži pasta with truffle or wild asparagus
- Sip a glass of Malvazija (Malvasia) at a terrace café
Tip: Want to learn more about Istria’s most prized ingredient? Join a truffle-hunting tour in the forests around Motovun. It’s a unique, hands-on experience and a great way to see what goes into finding these hidden treasures.
Grožnjan – The Artistic Soul of Istria
Grožnjan is one of Istria’s most atmospheric hilltop villages, a tiny gem known for its art studios, cobbled lanes, and stunning countryside views. Once a quiet medieval town, it’s now a haven for creatives and musicians.
- Discover artist studios and galleries tucked into quiet alleys
- Shop for handmade jewellery, ceramics, and paintings
- Visit in the late afternoon when golden light softens the town and streets come alive
- Catch live jazz music in the summer
Don’t miss: End your visit at Truba Bar, a cosy spot with panoramic views over the vineyards. Order a glass of Istrian wine, listen to mellow jazz, and soak in the magical sunset over the valley. It’s one of our favourite travel memories from this trip.
It’s about a 1-hour drive from Rovinj and pairs perfectly with a visit to Motovun for a scenic day in Istria’s countryside.
Optional Stop: Aura Distillery in Buzet
Just a short detour from Motovun, Aura Distillery is known for its award-winning brandies, liqueurs, and jams made from wild herbs and fruits. The tasting experience is fantastic, and perfect if you’re not the designated driver! Check out their official website for more info and to book a tour.
Optional Overnight in the Hills
Want to stretch out your countryside escape? Stay the night and wake up to peaceful vineyard views.
Recommended stay: Winery & Design Hotel ROXANICH in Motovun – a sleek, architectural hotel and working winery offering a one-of-a-kind stay in the heart of Istrian wine country.
Optional Stop: Visit Hum – The Smallest Town in the World
Tucked away in the heart of the Istrian countryside, Hum proudly holds the title of the smallest town in the world. With a history dating back to the 11th century, this medieval gem feels more like a fairy-tale set than a real village.
- Hum consists of only two short streets, a few stone houses, a church, a town gate, and a small cemetery, but every corner tells a story
- Stop by the local shops for truffle products, Istrian honey, and biska, a traditional mistletoe schnapps said to have healing properties
- You can explore the whole village in under 30 minutes, but it’s worth the detour for its peaceful, authentic atmosphere
Tip: Hum is a great add-on if you’re driving between Motovun and Pazin or making a longer loop through the inland region.
Day 4: Dive into History in Pula
Pula, Croatia’s southernmost city in Istria, is a fascinating blend of Roman ruins, beach vibes, and gritty charm. It’s best known for its spectacular Roman amphitheatre, the Pula Arena (one of the best-preserved in the world), but there’s more to discover beyond the stone walls. Think bustling local markets, laid-back beaches, hidden coastal paths, and a thriving food scene rooted in Istrian produce.
We moved from Rovinj to Pula mid-trip and immediately noticed the contrast. It’s less polished but full of character. Spend your day stepping back in time, wandering ancient streets, and tasting your way through local taverns and bakeries.
How to Get to Pula
Pula is easily accessible and makes a great starting or ending point for your Istria trip.
- By plane: Pula Airport (PUY) is just 15 minutes from the city and has seasonal flights from major European cities
- By car: It’s about a 45-minute drive from Rovinj. Click here to compare rental cars and check availability and cost
- By bus: Regular connections run from Zagreb, Rijeka, and other Croatian cities
Things to Do in Pula
A lively mix of ancient history and seaside charm, Pula has a little bit of everything.
- Visit the Roman Pula Arena, one of the best-preserved amphitheatres in the world
- Wander the Old Town and see the Temple of Augustus and the Arch of the Sergii
- Enjoy panoramic views from Kaštel Fortress
- Stroll the local markets for Istrian goods and fresh produce
- Hop on a boat tour or explore nearby islands
Where to Stay in Pula
Pula offers great value accommodation (from affordable apartments to stylish hotels with sea views) and is ideal if you love history, local food, and a more urban seaside vibe. It’s also well-connected for day trips across southern Istria.
- Budget: City Point Rooms, Apartments Antic
- Mid-range: Hotel Galija, Ribarska Koliba Resort
- Luxury & Resorts: Park Plaza Arena, Grand Hotel Brioni Pula
Day 5: Adventure at Kamenjak National Park
For a wilder, more adventurous beach day, head to Kamenjak National Park on the southern tip of Istria. This rugged peninsula is a protected nature reserve known for its dramatic coastline, hidden coves, turquoise waters, and cycling trails through pine forests.
How to Get to Cape Kamenjak from Pula
Pula is easily accessible and makes a great starting or ending point for your Istria trip.
- By Car: The easiest way to reach Kamenjak is by renting a car. From Pula, it’s a 20–30 minute drive to the southern tip of Istria, where the park entrance is located
- By Bike: If you’re staying nearby (e.g. in Medulin or Premantura), cycling is a scenic and eco-friendly option, just prepare for some bumpy gravel paths inside the park
- By Bus: Public transport to Premantura is available, but you’ll need to walk or cycle from the village to the park entrance and beyond
Entrance is paid for vehicles, but free if entering on foot or by bike.
Things to Do in Kamenjak National Park, Premantura
- Rent a bike or drive through the scenic dirt paths
- Swim and snorkel in crystal-clear bays like Polje Beach or Debeljak Cove
- Try cliff jumping at the famous southern spot, Plaza Mala Kolumbarica
- Relax with a drink at the quirky Safari Bar tucked into the cliffs
- Spot orchids, butterflies, and dolphins if you’re lucky!
Tip: Bring water shoes (it’s rocky!), plenty of water, and cash for entrance and food
Entry fee: 10 EUR per car | Best time to visit: May–June or September
Day 6: Beach Hopping around Verudela, Pula
Wrap up your Istria itinerary with a relaxing beach day along the Verudela Peninsula, a stunning coastal stretch just outside Pula. This area is packed with stunning coves, beach bars, and cliffside paths. It is perfect for swimming, walking, and soaking up the Adriatic.
Getting to Verudela
The best option for getting around is to rent a car. Alternatively, you can:
- Walk from central Pula (about 35 minutes)
- Take bus 2A or 3A from the city centre
- Book a ride via Uber or Bolt
Top Things to Do in Verudela
- Walk the scenic Lungomare Promenade
- Swim and sunbathe at Ambrela Beach, Hawaii Beach, Valsaline or Gortanova Cove
- Discover Verudela Canyon for cliff jumping and kayaking
- Watch the sunset at Zlatne Stijene (Golden Rocks)
- Enjoy a beach drink at Zeppelin Lounge or dinner at Konoba Veruda
- For something unique: book a night kayaking tour under the stars
Where to Stay
If you want to stay close to the sea and skip the commute, Verudela has several beachfront accommodation options:
- Park Plaza Verudela Pula
- Hotel Brioni Pula
- Park Plaza Arena Pula
- Or browse hotels near Verudela
Day 7: One Last Stroll in Pula Old Town
Your Istria adventure is coming to an end, but there’s still time for one last slow morning. After packing your bags, take a final wander through Pula’s Old Town. Soak up the local rhythm, admire the Roman Forum one more time, and sip your goodbye coffee at Cvajner Gallery Café, a quirky art-filled spot with vintage vibes and outdoor seating overlooking the square.
It’s the perfect place to pause, reflect, and start dreaming about your next trip back to Croatia.
Then it’s time to head to the airport, with your camera full, your heart fuller, and plenty of memories to carry home.
7-Day Istria, Croatia Itinerary
From charming coastal towns like Rovinj and Pula to the rolling vineyards and hilltop villages of inland Istria, this itinerary has it all.
Seaside relaxation, local flavours, and cultural discovery come together for the perfect 7-day journey through the best of the Istrian Peninsula.
7 Days of Coastal Charm, Hilltop Views & Local Flavours
Day 1: Arrive in Istria and head to Rovinj for a sunset stroll by the harbour
Day 2: Explore Rovinj: cycle to beaches, wander the Old Town, enjoy a sunset cruise
Day 3: Day trip to Motovun, Grožnjan, and optionally Hum – soak in hilltop views, truffles, and wine
Day 4: Travel to Pula and discover Roman ruins, street cafés, and the local market
Day 5: Adventure day at Kamenjak National Park – swim, snorkel, and cliff jump
Day 6: Relax on the beaches of the Verudela Peninsula just outside Pula
Day 7: Morning coffee at Forum Square, final stroll, and fly out from Pula Airport
Budget-Friendly Tips for Istria
Exploring Istria doesn’t have to break the bank! With a few smart tips, you can enjoy the best of the region (from the coastline to the hilltops) without overspending:
- Stay Central: Book accommodation near the Old Town in Rovinj or Pula to walk everywhere and skip car rentals
- Eat Like a Local: Grab pastries or sandwiches from Pekara Forum (Pula) or Dan i Noć Bakery (Rovinj) for a cheap breakfast on the go. Skip the tourist menus and dine at local konobas for delicious Istrian specialities at better prices
- Shop Smart: Visit local markets for fresh produce or fish: in Pula, grab lunch at Restoran Furia above the fish market. Pick up regional goodies like olive oil, truffles, or Biska schnapps in local delis or at Aura Shops
- Travel Cards: Use Revolut or Monzo to avoid foreign transaction fees and ATM charges
- Join Free Walking Tours: Explore the cities with a local by joining tip-based walking tours in Pula or Rovinj
- Use Public Transport or Walk: Buses and bikes are budget-friendly alternatives to car hire; plus, most coastal towns are walkable
- Stay Connected: Save on roaming charges — we used Nomad eSIM across Istria with great coverage. Use code KJUDQTUPVE for $5 off your first purchase
- Travel Off-Peak: Visit in May–June or Sep–Oct for better deals, warm weather, and fewer tourists
- Looking for more travel tools? Don’t miss our Ultimate Travel Resources Guide for all our go-to platforms and planning hacks
Above all, set up comprehensive travel insurance before your trip. We recommend SafetyWing Nomad Insurance for reliable coverage and peace of mind while travelling abroad. For more information and to get started, check out SafetyWing website.
Final Thoughts on Istria, Croatia
This 7-day Istria itinerary offers the perfect mix of coastal charm, hilltop villages, local food, and stunning landscapes. From watching golden sunsets in Rovinj to sipping wine above the vineyards of Motovun and beach hopping around Kamenjak, each day brings something new to discover.
There’s still so much more to explore across the Istrian Peninsula, but this route highlights the places we loved most and gives you a solid base to start planning your adventure.
Take it slow, explore at your own pace, and let Istria, Croatia, surprise you. We’re pretty sure it won’t be your last visit.
