Istrian Riviera
This gorgeous heart-shaped region in northern Croatia is basically like having three countries rolled into one brilliant holiday destination - you'll hear Italian, Croatian, and even German being spoken in the charming coastal towns, while the interior is packed with hilltop villages, world-class wineries, and truffle forests that'll make any foodie weep with joy.
Istria's got this incredible mix of Venetian elegance, Austrian charm, and Croatian warmth, plus some of the most stunning coastline on the entire Adriatic. The peninsula perfectly balances beautiful beaches, historic towns, gourmet cuisine, and outdoor adventures - whether you're after romantic canal-side dining, family-friendly resorts, or exploring ancient Roman amphitheatres.
We have a range of hotels in many of the different resorts in the area, but here are some of our top picks....
Umag - This lively medium-sized resort town is tennis mad (it hosts the Croatia Open!) with decent nightlife and great family resorts. It's one of the more affordable options in Istria and offers easy access to Slovenia and Italy for day trips.
Novigrad - A charming small fishing town with gorgeous Venetian architecture and some of Istria's best romantic waterfront restaurants. Its boujee beauty is perfect for couples seeking intimate dinners and peaceful strolls.
Poreč - One of Istria's larger resort destinations, packed with big family hotels, water parks, and the stunning UNESCO World Heritage Euphrasian Basilica. It's brilliant for families with kids and offers good value for money with loads of activities.
Rovinj - The jewel of Istria and definitely the most romantic spot, with its impossibly beautiful hilltop old town cascading down to the harbour. It's not gonna be the cheapest place in the area, but some things are worth paying for, and it's worth every penny for couples - think boutique hotels, upmarket restaurants, and art galleries.
Pula - Istria's largest city, featuring one of the world's best-preserved Roman amphitheatres, where you can catch concerts and festivals. It's got the best nightlife in the region, decent prices, and appeals to all ages with its mix of history and modern attractions.
Rabac - A smaller resort known as the "Pearl of Kvarner Bay" with some of Croatia's most gorgeous beaches and family-friendly hotels. It's great value for families wanting proper seaside holidays with crystal-clear waters and relaxed vibes.
The brilliant thing about the Istrian Riviera is you can island-hop between completely different experiences - from Roman ruins to Venetian bell towers, world-class wine tastings to truffle hunting, glamorous beach clubs to cozy family konobas. It's basically Croatia's gourmet peninsula where every meal is an event and every sunset comes with a glass of excellent local wine! 🍷🏛️