Hidden Towns of Istria
Labin
Built on a 325-meter-high hill, this small town on the eastern side of Istria offers great views of the turquoise waters of Kvarner Gulf. After observing the view take your time to check out some classic Istrian architecture while walking around the narrow streets of this lesser-known Istrian town.
When your legs get tired from walking, cool them down in the neighboring village Rabac just below the town.
Bale
The town of Bale lies approximately halfway between the much more popular towns of Pula and Rovinj. It is a very old town since its story begins in Roman times under the name Castrum Vallis. It is one of the best-kept secrets of Istria since most of the tourists just bypass it. It is a labyrinth of cobbled streets, lined with old stone townhouses.
In the center of this laid-back town, there is a 36-meter-high bell tower of the St. Julian Church. It is known as a place of culture since it hosts many art symposiums and it is every year the home of the Last Minute Open Jazz Festival.
Buje
This town on the Croatian-Slovenian border is known for unearthing the largest white truffle ever. And this is just the tip of the culinary tale this Istrian town can offer. In Buje, you can find the best traditional Istrian products, such as wine, olive oil, truffles, meat products, and cheese.
It's not just about wandering around its old cobblestone streets. Check neighboring villages for traditional eateries and wine cellars.
Where is Istria?
Nestled in the heart of the Adriatic, Istria captivates with its sun-drenched landscapes and a rich tapestry of cultural heritage. This enchanting region, covering an area of approximately 7.300 square kilometers lies on Istrian Peninsula. Situated at the crossroads of Central Europe and the Mediterranean, Istria's strategic location has shaped its history, making it a melting pot of diverse influences. Istria is home to over 200.000 residents. With Italy to the west, Slovenia to the north, and the Adriatic Sea to the west and south, Istria's geographical position has made it a cultural bridge between different worlds.
Groznjan
Known as the “Town of Artists,” Groznjan is my personal favorite. In this medieval town everything is about art and art seems to be everything. Soon you will find yourself wandering around its streets full of beautiful medieval architecture observing products and work produced by local artists. When reaching the borders of the town your breath will be taken by the amazing views of the surrounding Istrian countryside.
The perfect time to visit Groznjan is in summer when it hosts many international artists who visit it for its music and art festivals and summer schools. Even if you are not a fan of art this easy-going vibe of this town will touch you and keep you entertained for at least an hour or two.
Have you fallen in love ❤️ with Istria already?
Check my perfect-sized 5-day Istrian Grand Tour itinerary.
Svetvincenat
This small town in the interior of the Istrian peninsula has a lot to offer. It is a must-stop for all fans of history. It was built around a Benedictine abbey from the 10th century. It is the location of Morosini-Grimani Castle, one of the best-preserved Venetian buildings in Istria.
Pazin
"Heart of Istria" is the second name for this city which is actually the capital of Istria County. In the town, there is something for everybody. Zipline for adrenaline lovers, Pazin Castle (Kastel) for history fans, and a pathway next to Pazincica River for nature lovers. Pazincica River created a spectacular gorge with caves and a waterfall Zarecki Krov. It is a perfect mix of everything and it definitely deserves to be on that list.
That town in Central Istria brings together cuisine from every corner of the peninsula. A must to try is definitely traditional fuzi pasta.
Zavrsje
This may be the quietest town of all listed in this post. Actually is not even a town anymore since today almost nobody lives here. Today a ghost town, but in the past Zavrsje was a vibrant town. Maybe this is one reason to visit this fascinating place. You will meet almost no tourists here so you will have an opportunity to observe a true Istrian town all by yourself. You don't get an opportunity to do that every day.
It is mysterious and quiet. Time and nature started to take over this settlement. Take an hour or two of your time just relaxing and enjoying this lost paradise of Northern Istria.
Fazana
To the majority of visitors, Fazana is just a starting point for a daily trip to Brijuni National Park. But you are not a mainstream tourist. And Fazana is so much more, it is a magical small town with hundreds of years of fishing history. There are a number of events over the summer connected with the tradition of fishing and fishing. The main fish is an anchovy and it is the main ingredient of traditional dishes in this town. Why not try some of them?
And yes of course once you are here reserve yourself a day trip to the magical Brijuni National Park. It is a place definitely worth visiting.
Hum
The smallest town in the world. That is a pretty flattering title. Currently, this title is owned by the town of Hum in central Istria. Currently, it has only around 30 inhabitants; but the town has a mayor and everything else the town needs. You should definitely visit this little diamond and not just for the title. It is also one of the best-preserved examples of Istrian architecture.
The town is also strongly connected with the Slavic culture of this region. There you will find Glagolitic Alley. It is a 7-kilometer-long path with monuments presenting a story about the oldest Slavic alphabet created in the 9th century.
Vrsar
Vrsar is between Porec and Rovinj the big two tourist towns in Istria. Due to that fact, it is sometimes neglected by visitors. And that is an opportunity for you to see a smaller version of those two giants. It lies between the entrance to mighty Lim Bay and an archipelago of small islands and rocks. The town is known for its stonemason trade. You will see statues and art scattered all over the old town. The old town is a remarkable place to visit too. The town center is located inside the town walls and is full of restaurants offering traditional Istrian cuisine.
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