Istria is a large green peninsula located at the head of the Adriatic. It is between the Gulf of Trieste and the Kvarner Gulf. The ancient port of Pula sits on the peninsula’s tip. You can sail up the sunny west coast to the popular seaside destinations Rovinj and Porec.
Aerial view of Old town Rovinj at sunset, Istra region, Croatia.
During your trip, explore Inland Istria, a rural region of medieval-walled hilltowns, fertile vineyards, and olive groves. In addition, be sure to sample gourmet specialty, truffles.
Why Istria for Your Yacht Charter?
Are you dreaming of a luxurious getaway this summer? Look no further than an Istria yacht charter! Located in the northern part of the Adriatic Sea, this is an ideal destination for a summer escape.
From its crystal-clear waters to its beautiful coastline, there are many reasons why an Istria yacht charter should be your next summer vacation. Here are just a few.
The Location
Istria is a peninsula located in the northern Adriatic Sea, off the coast of Croatia. It is the largest peninsula in the Adriatic, offering stunning views and a pristine coastline.
Istria is an excellent location for a luxury yacht charter. It is relatively close to many international airports and major cities like Venice, Trieste, and Milan. Moreover, the destination offers a variety of natural attractions such as forests, mountains, and beaches.
The coastal towns of Rovinj, Pula, and Porec are all popular stops for yacht charters in Istria. These towns have various marinas, shops, and restaurants.
Rovinj. Colorful houses crowd the seafront of this lovely fishing village. The steeple of St. Euphemia dominates the skyline (see the photo above). Lone Bay is a pebble beach south of the old town.
Pula. This seafront city on the tip of the Peninsula has a protected harbor, beach-lined coast, and Roman ruins.
Porec. Resort town on the coast. The 6th-century Euphrasian Basilica complex in the historic old town is a must-see. The coastline offers numerous beaches for swimming and water sports.
The Climate
Istria enjoys a pleasant Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters. It typically has more than 2,500 hours of sunshine each year, making it an ideal holiday destination all year round. In the summer months, temperatures reach an average of 80°F.
The Activities
A few things to do include:
Scuba diving. Istria has fantastic diving spots. Scuba divers can explore underwater caves, shipwrecks, and other exciting sites.
If you like fishing, you’ll love Istria. The area is abundant with fish such as bass, mackerel, sea bream, and tuna.
Cycling, hiking, birdwatching, and horse riding.
Explore the local culture. Istria is full of quaint towns and villages where you can wander around cobbled streets and visit ancient churches.
The Food of Istria
Istria is a paradise for foodies. The region offers something for every palate with an abundance of seafood, locally sourced ingredients, and traditional recipes.
Fresh-caught fish and seafood dominate the menu, with dishes like calamari, scampi, sea bass, mussels, and more. There are delicious dishes featuring Istrian pršut (cured ham) and homemade sausages for meat lovers. Vegetarians can also find plenty of options here.
Nearby Italy has greatly influenced Istria’s cuisine, so you can expect to find many kinds of pasta and pizzas. And don’t forget the famous Istrian truffles – the world’s finest!
Some local dishes you should try are Fuzi (Istrian ravioli), Jota (a traditional bean and sauerkraut stew), and Fuži s tartufima (noodles with truffles). Of course, no meal in Istria would be complete without sampling the region’s delicious wines. You’ll find plenty of variety, from robust reds to crisp whites.
Istria | Things to do
Explore Rovinj. Head to the old town and walk the cobblestone streets, photograph the colorful houses, and browse one of the many art galleries.
Go truffle hunting. Istria offers many truffle hunting tours where you can walk through quiet forests and find these hidden delicacies.
Hit the beach. Porton Biondi Beach in Rovinj has a fantastic view of the old town.
Play tennis. Tennis is very popular in Istria. The region has more than 400 tennis courts available all year long.
Horseback ride.
Marinas
ACI Marina Rovinj. A luxury marina overlooks the old town of Rovinj. It has 196 wet berths for vessels of an average length of 17 meters.
Brijuni Islands | Stunning Croatia Gems
Brijuni Islands | Stunning Croatia Gems The Brijuni Islands, nestled off the coast of Istria in Croatia, are a true gem of the Adriatic Sea. This archipelago consists of 14 islands with Veliki Brijun and Mali Brijun being the largest. The islands offer a unique blend of stunning natural beauty, rich history, and exciting activities. Brijuni National Park contains the islands of the Brijuni archipelago. The islands lie opposite Fazana, off the Istria mainland coast. Pine trees, holm oaks, and rare flowers grow on the islands. Meanwhile, wild animals, such as fallow deer, mouflon, hares, and peacocks, roam free here. Veli Brijun Island Former Yugoslav President Tito had his official summer residence on Veli Brijun. He entertained many world leaders and international celebrities here, including Queen Elizabeth II, Fidel Castro, Richard Burton, and Elizabeth Taylor. Today, Veli Brijuni has three hotels, one private villa, and several restaurants and cafes. Sailing...
Porec | Paradise on the Istrian Peninsula Porec lies on Istria's west coast and is one of Croatia's most popular tourist destinations. Initially founded by the Romans, the Old Town sits on a tiny peninsula. The main cultural attraction is the 6th-century Euphrasian Basilica, decorated with magnificent golden Byzantine mosaics and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also, some notable Gothic and Baroque buildings are in the Old Town. The large, modern hotel resorts lie out of town, along the coast. Aerial view of the Croatian town Porec In short, Porec, Croatia is a lovely place to visit while sailing the Istrian coast. July and August are the warmest months and the height of the tourist season. Things to See and Do in Porec, Croatia History At the end of the Decumanus, on the tip of the Old Town peninsula, see Trg Marafor. In Roman times this was the forum. Tour...
Pula, Croatia | Ancient Wonders and Modern Charm Pula, Croatia, is a bustling industrial port city at the southern tip of Istria. The town's central highlight is the remarkably preserved Roman amphitheater, locally referred to as the Arena. This structure dominates the city center. It also serves as the venue for open-air summer concerts and the annual Pula Film Festival. Roman Amphitheater in Pula, Croatia Croatia’s Adriatic coastline has become a popular vacation destination in recent years. This destination draws visitors from around the globe to its mix of charming cities, welcoming locals, and sandy beaches. Pula stands out as one of the best places visit on your next yacht charter. This stunning town offers a combination of beautiful waterscapes and interesting historical buildings. Read on to learn more about why you should book your next vacation aboard a yacht in Pula, Croatia. Pula | Things to see and do...
Rabac | A Cheerful Seaside Resort Rabac is a cheerful seaside resort on Istria's east coast, overlooking Kvarner Bay. It is twinned with the nearby medieval hilltop town of Labin. Rabac started as a simple fishing village, but nowadays, it is a modest tourist destination with modern resort hotels. Several of these are all-inclusive and cater specifically to families with kids. The hotels and pebble beaches connect to the old village by a boardwalk. Rabac Beach Climate Rabac has a temperate climate with hot summers and some rainfall in all months, although it rains more in the winter. The average sea temperature ranges between 61 °F in winter and 81 °F in summer. May, June, September, and October are most likely to have good weather, with average temperatures between 68°F and 79°F. Rabac & Labin | Things to see and do Hike up to Labin, following the lovely two-mile Sentona...
Rovinj | Sun, Sea, and Elegance Rovinj holds a special allure for the discerning yacht charterer. This charming peninsula town, with its Venetian-kissed harbor, offers ancient secrets, hidden coves, and romantic sunsets. So, set your course for Rovinj. Adventure awaits, both on land and aboard your luxurious yacht. This quaint fishing village is on the Adriatic coast, just south of Venice, Italy, and north of Dubrovnik, Croatia. With its tiny streets and beautiful harbor location, Rovinj has a feel unlike any other place in Croatia. ACI Marina Rovinj Rovinj Old Town sits on a tiny peninsula, which was initially an island. Pastel-colored Venetian-era facades rim the deep curving fishing harbor, overlooked by a lovely hilltop church. South from here, on the coast, are some of Croatia's most luxurious contemporary hotels. Sailing crews moor up along Rovinj's quayside to come ashore and explore its romantic cobbled alleys. Meanwhile, excursion boats shuttle...
Umag | Where Beauty Meets Serenity The town of Umag lies on Istria's west coast, close to the border with Slovenia. The Old Town is compact, sitting within the remains of the 10th-century walls. In addition, a long sea wall from the 1800's shelters the harbor. Town of Umag's historic coastline Umag was declared European City of Sport 2018. Tennis enthusiasts much love it for its summer tennis camps. In addition, each July, Umag hosts the ATP Croatia Open Umag at the Plava Laguna tennis complex. The SeaStar Festival is here in late May, featuring rock, pop, electronic, techno, and hip-hop music. Umag | Things to See and Do Visit Umag's Old Town The Old Town is a captivating blend of medieval charm and modern allure. Its cobbled streets lead you through a living tapestry of history and culture. The Old Town showcases well-preserved architecture with Venetian influences. Landmarks like the...
