Holidays to the Istrian Peninsula offer a mix of coast, culture
and countryside in one of Croatia's most convenient regions for
exploring by car. The peninsula is home to popular towns such as
Rovinj, Poreč and Pula, where you'll find historic old towns,
lively waterfronts and well-known Roman landmarks. The coastline is
lined with pebble beaches and rocky coves, with clear water and
plenty of places to swim or take to the sea.
Further inland, Istria becomes quieter and more rural, with
hilltop villages, vineyards and olive groves spread across the
landscape. Food and drink are a major part of the region's appeal,
with seafood on the coast and wineries and olive oil producers
throughout the interior. Many visitors choose to split their time
between a coastal base and a few nights inland to experience both
sides of the peninsula.
Istria is easily reached via Pula Airport, which offers the most
direct access to the peninsula. From the airport, it's typically
around 15 minutes to central Pula, while Rovinj is around 40-45
minutes away and Poreč approximately 45-60 minutes. Hiring a car is
a popular option, as it makes it easy to explore both the coastline
and the inland hill towns at your own pace.
