Planning a trip to northern Croatia and looking for things to see and do? Pleasant weather, a dose of culture, fantastic food and lovely beaches, are just some of the nice things you can enjoy in Istria. Check out our favorite beaches, towns, and family-friendly fun:
1. For the BEACH lover: Relax at Parentium Beach in PorecWe enjoy soaking up the sun at the Zelena Laguna, or Plava Laguna. These more than your average beaches, more like mini-resorts, and they are free of charge to use. Lounge chairs, hammocks, kids’ playground, and plenty of cafes are conveniently spread along a nice walkway that is convenient for a walk in the sun. Here you can relax by the shore or take a seat at the nearby lawns in the shade.Another great attraction, that especially kids like, is the little tourist train that runs from the city all along the beach with several stops along the way. You can spend all day on the beach and then take the train in to Porec or start the day in town and then make your way to the beach with the train. We’ve done it plenty of times.
2. For the WATER enthusiast: Take the plunge in an aquaparkRelaxing on the beach and swimming in crystal clear water is usually on top of mind when people think of Croatia, and we love that too. For the occasional restless moment, check out some of our other favorite water experiences:What kid doesn’t love a water park? Istralandia aquapark is located in Novigrad and can entertain kids of all ages. There is a wave pool, 27m monster slide, kiddy entertainment, pools of all shapes and sizes and even an adult hydro massage pool.This resort hosts the most water attractions in Istria in one place. Steep and super-speedy water slides, children’s pool and a relaxation pool, also a 500-meter-long lazy river and artificial wave pool.This waterpark not only serves up some water fun, but also includes explorations for the whole family. The waterpark is dinosaur-themed due to its location in Bale, wherethe world’s oldest known member of the Rebbachisauridae dinosaur type was found in 1992. The park hosts three swimming pools, Jacuzzi, sunbathing area, playground and kids’ sandpits with exposed dinosaur bones.
3. For the ROMANTIC: Stroll the old town of RovinjMany have called this gorgeous town one of the most beautiful in Croatia. Located on the west coast, here you will find Mediterranean climate, beautiful Old Town with narrow streets, cobblestones, small squares, colorful houses, a fishing port, and he beautiful and clear sea. Honestly. every corner of this town is picture ready. The cobble stones, the marina, Rovinj is a wonderful town for a get-away, even if it is just to take a walk throughOld Town for a scoop of ice cream.
4. For the ART lover: Visit the bohemian artist village of GroznjanOfficially named Town of Arts in 1965, Grožnjan is a hub for artists and one of the most appealing destinations for artists and creative arts lovers. Here you can stroll the many galleries and browse art on display, or sample wine and olive oil from the many boutiques. Only 164 residents call his picturesque town home, while many more visit he area for all things art, including the popular Extempore festival. We highly recommend you enjoy the panoramic views at one of the hilltop cafes (like Café Mamamaria).Some more things to do:
5. For the THRILL seeker: Get a kick out of adrenalin park GlavaniFor the family that can’t sit still, this park is a gem. Pick from a zipline, giant swing, free fall jump, or climbing wall. If you’re looking for a kick that breaks off from the sunbathing, this is a perfect spot for the whole family.
6. For the FOODIE: Go truffle huntingVisiting Istria without trying a dish that includes truffle is a crime. In the fall you will find this delicacy in any menu around the whole region. For the ultimate experience, join one of the local truffle hunting families that have been working with truffles for generations. Cook up your treasures right away or take it home to enjoy later.Known truffle hunters:
7. For the WINE aficionado: Take a wine tasting tourLeave the car and let one of the local organizers take you around to some of the many high-quality boutique wineries in town. Here you will sample home grown varieties of wine from locals who product world-class wine that is recognized worldwide.Some wineries we recommend:Marijan Arman- The family-run vineyard and wine cellar of Marijan Arman are located in the Western Istrian winegrowing area, in the immediate vicinity of Poreč, in the Vižinada district.Benvenuti - The goal of Benvenuti family was to produce high-quality wines and create a recognizable brand from three indigenous Istrian varieties: Istrian Malvasia, Teran, and Muscat. Today they are proud owners of many national and international awards for their wines.Banko Mario- And his story from a hobby to a lifestyleKozlovic- The Kozlović winery started production in 1904. Today they are one the leading producers of Malvazia Istriana on the Istrian Peninsula in Croatia.Damjanic- Located 8 km from Poreč, 2 km from the sea shore, has 8.5 hectares of vineyards.Trapan- "Trapan winery is young, including the people who live through it. So their wines are rock’n’roll - brave, resolute and confident."Vina Tomaz- The family Tomaz has 16 hectares of vineyards, located in the vicinity of famous Motovun.
8. For the HISTORIAN: Join the escape from Castle GrimaniThe renaissance town of St Vincente has become a popular tourism destination due to many of the events taking place int he historical areas of town. The escape experience takes you through the castle that located in the center and includes three towers, a dungeon, armory and throne. The game is adequate for all generations and lasts between 30-60 minutes.9. For the SHOWTIME enthusiast: Have a very medieval experience with real knightsHang on to your helmet and let medieval Croatia come to life before your eyes. Check out a real Medieval battle and cheer for your knight at Medieval Theme Park Sanc. Michael
10. For the LITTLE ones: See a tractor storyWe took our little one to this tractor museum when he was a toddler and it was a sure hit. Browse through 50+ vintage tractors and machines brought in from different parts of the world in an open-air setting. This exhibit offers great photo opportunities and will put a smile on the youngsters in the house.Don’t miss the nearby Baredine Cave, a true treasure chest of underworld sculptures created through time and patience.
Charming Croatia
Istria & More AS
tel: +47 452 37 240
e-mail: hello@charmingcroatia.com
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