Vacation in Istria

A piece of paradise within reach

(Bild: Anton Unković)

A vacation in Istria, the Croatian peninsula on the Adriatic Sea, means immersing yourself in a world full of wonders. From stunning coastal landscapes to historic sites and unparalleled culinary experiences—Istria offers something for every taste.

TheBrijuni Archipelago– A Heavenly Island Paradise
The Brijuni Archipelago, a national park not far from Pula, comprises 14 islands known for their extraordinary beauty and historical significance. Veli and Mali Brijun, the main islands, were once the favored summer retreats of aristocrats and today offer all visitors a glimpse into their magnificent past.

Special attractions such as the underwater museum in Verige Bay allow visitors to explore the underwater treasures with a mask and snorkel. The Brijuni Islands are not only a paradise for nature lovers but also for history buffs who wish to immerse themselves in the era of dinosaurs and Roman emperors.

Istria’s Culinary Highlights 
Istrian cuisine reflects the rich history and geographical diversity of the peninsula. Truffles, both white and black, are among the most sought-after delicacies in the world and are harvested here in the forests of Motovun.

Wild asparagus, fresh mussels from the Adriatic, and exquisite wines define the culinary heritage. Restaurants and konobas offer special menus that celebrate seasonal produce and traditional dishes, inviting you to explore Istria through its flavors.

Active vacations amidst green nature and the blue sea
Istria is the perfect destination for active travelers. Explore the idyllic bays of Cape Kamenjak by kayak or discover the underwater world while snorkeling and diving. The diverse landscape also offers ideal conditions for free climbing and hiking. The Lim Channel and the surrounding hills invite you to go on bike tours and horseback riding excursions, while the clear waters of the Adriatic Sea beckon for windsurfing and sailing.

Plus, experience camping redefined: Over 50 campgrounds offer everything a camper’s heart desires, from simple campsites to luxurious camping villas with private pools. Glamping, a luxurious form of camping, combines freedom and comfort and is available at resorts such as Camping Park Umag and Lanterna Premium Camping Resort.

On the Hunt for Comets
In the picturesque, thousand-year-old town of Višnjan near Poreč stands the world’s second-most successful observatory, which specializes in the discovery of potentially hazardous asteroids. Since 2019, this small but powerful observatory has conducted more than half of all observations of near-Earth objects (NEOs), even surpassing the U.S. Army and the European Space Agency (ESA).

A highlight is the annual Astrofest in Tičan on the summer solstice. On the shortest night of the year, from June 21 to 22, not only are St. John’s fires lit here, but according to old folk beliefs, the earth is also visited by fairies and elves. Star-lovers should definitely not miss this magical festival!

Mysterious Worlds Beneath the Earth
In addition to sunny beaches and culinary adventures, Istria also offers mysterious underground worlds. The caves of Baredine and Mramornica, along with many others, provide fascinating glimpses into the subterranean world.

On guided tours, you can admire the impressive stalactites and stalagmites and learn more about the region’s geological history. A special highlight is encountering the olm, a rare animal that lives in these caves.

ISTRIA – Life as it should be
Istria offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, culinary delights, and cultural treasures. A vacation here promises unforgettable experiences and the discovery of a true European gem. If you don’t want to drive to Istria, you also have the option of flying directly from Vienna to Pula three times a week from June to September. You can find more information, tips, and the events calendar for IstriaHERE.