Villas in Istria: Discover the Charm of Croatia’s Coastal Gem

Uncover Istria – Journey Through Culture and Coastlines

Istria villa holidays provide an extraordinary opportunity to experience the best of Croatia’s stunning coastline, rich history, and authentic local culture. A villa holiday here allows you to fully immerse yourself in the region’s unique charm, whilst enjoying the privacy and luxury of your own home away from home.

Whether you’re wandering through the narrow streets of Rovinj, where the pastel buildings meet the sea, or tasting world-renowned truffles in Motovun’s lush forests, Istria offers a landscape brimming with history, culture, and natural wonder. The region’s quaint towns, dotted with ancient ruins and stone-cobbled lanes, are windows into a past that continues to thrive in its food, art, and local traditions.

Things to Do in Istria

Istria is a treasure trove of experiences, where ancient history, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine converge. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful Croatian region.

Wander through the cobbled streets of Rovinj, one of Istria’s most charming towns. With its vibrant buildings, narrow alleys, and captivating art galleries, Rovinj offers an authentic Mediterranean experience. Or head to Pula and visit the Temple of Augustus, the Arch of the Sergii, and the Roman Forum, all of which offer a fascinating glimpse into the region’s ancient past.

And don't forget that Istria is famous for its truffles, and there’s no better way to experience this culinary delight than by going truffle hunting. You can indulge in truffle-based dishes at local restaurants, from truffle pasta to truffle-infused olive oils and sauces.

From exploring ancient ruins to tasting exquisite truffles, Istria offers a wealth of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories.

Tempted by Istria? Read our blog on the top things to do in Istria.

Beaches in Istria

Drive around the heart-shaped peninsula, and you'll come across some of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia. Whether you’re looking for peaceful pebbled shores, sandy stretches, or secluded coves, Istria offers a variety of beach experiences, each with its own unique charm.

Hawaii Beach

Any beach with the name Hawaii promises to be exotic, and this one in Pula certainly won't disappoint you. With its impressive rocky backdrop and crystal sea, Hawaii Beach is popular with tourists and is near local bars and restaurants.

Njive Beach

If you prefer natural and undisturbed beaches, you'll love visiting Njive, located within the Cape Kamenjak Nature Park. Take advantage of the rock formations, rest in the shade of the pine trees dotted around the beach, and then enjoy the beautiful turquoise sea.

Bijeca Beach

Located in the popular town of Medulin, this beach is one of the few sandy beaches in Istria, making it a favourite for families with children. The gentle slope of the sand into the shallow water makes it ideal for swimming and playing in the sea. The beach is well-equipped with beach bars, sunbeds, and water sports facilities, making it a lively spot for sunbathing, picnicking, or enjoying a leisurely day by the sea.

Zlatni Rt Beach

One of the most picturesque beaches, Zlatni Rt (Golden Cape) is located in a beautiful park just outside Rovinj. This pebbled beach is surrounded by pine trees, offering both sun and shade, and the turquoise waters make it perfect for swimming and relaxing. The nearby Golden Cape Forest Park is a peaceful retreat for those wanting to enjoy nature, with scenic walking paths and cycling trails that lead to quiet coves and serene viewpoints over the Adriatic. The beach also features sunbeds, bars, and snack stands, making it a convenient spot to spend a full day by the sea.

Limski Kanal Beach

For a truly unique beach experience, head here to a beautiful bay surrounded by steep cliffs and dense greenery. The beach itself is rocky, but the real attraction is the stunning, tranquil setting. The clear waters of the channel are perfect for swimming and snorkelling, and the area is also famous for its seafood restaurants, where you can enjoy fresh oysters and mussels harvested from the bay.

Crveni Otok (Red Island)

Known for its stunning natural beauty, the island is home to several secluded beaches, many of which are surrounded by lush Mediterranean vegetation. The beaches here are a mix of pebbles and rocks, with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkelling. The peaceful atmosphere and stunning views make it an excellent spot for a relaxing day away from the crowds.

Nightlife in Istria

Our villas in Istria have a mainline to too many late-night clubs, and that's because the region lends itself towards Croatia's relaxing way of life. When the sun dips below the Adriatic and the skies turn a dusky pink, expect everything from candlelit cocktails by the sea to sophisticated wine tastings.

There's a really calming vibe here, allowing you to truly unwind, but that doesn't mean you can't find some bars nearby that offer plenty of fun for the evening.

Luna’s Lounge Bar

Step back in time with a visit to Pula’s ancient Roman landmarks, then soak up the sun on one of the city’s stunning beaches. To top off your perfect day, head to Luna’s Lounge Bar. Here, the inviting ambiance sets the stage for relaxation as the award-winning staff craft your favourite cocktail with impeccable care and precision.

Ribarska Koliba Lounge & Cocktail Bar

The Ribarska Koliba Lounge & Cocktail Bar offers breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. With its open-air design, you can sip your drink beneath the stars whilst enjoying live music that spans from soothing jazz to acoustic sets by talented local artists.

Renowned for their expertly crafted cocktails, the bar’s skilled mixologists are always ready to recommend seasonal specialties. During the summer, don’t hesitate to request a custom creation—they’ll be happy to mix up something truly one-of-a-kind just for you.

Mediterraneo Cocktail Bar

Immerse yourself in the charm of Poreč's history at Mediterraneo Cocktail Bar. Whether you're starting your day with a coffee, taking a refreshing afternoon break, or enjoying a relaxed evening with friends or a partner, this spot offers something special.

They have an impressive wine list, expertly mixed cocktails, and authentic Istrian cuisine, all designed to tantalise your taste buds. As you savour these flavours, the warm ambiance and live music create the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable experience.

Wine and Tapas Bar Parentino

Enjoy delicious bites and explore an extensive wine selection whilst taking in the picturesque views of Poreč’s marina. With its sleek modern design, the Wine and Tapas Bar Parentino offers the perfect setting for relaxation. Start your day with a delightful breakfast or unwind later with your favourite drink—every moment here is designed for pure enjoyment.

Food and Drink in Istria

Perhaps Istria's most renowned delicacy is the truffle – these delicious treats are sourced in the region's forests and can be bought in most towns. Istrian cuisine is a fine blend of Italian and Croatian influence, including fresh seafood, vegetables and wild asparagus, cured local meats, pasta, olive oils and, of course, wine!

Our Istria villas are fully equipped for self-catering, but with several Michelin-Star restaurants in the area, it's understandable if you want to up your gourmet game and treat yourself to some fine dining!

Monte

Monte is the kind of restaurant you go to when you want to enjoy top-quality food. It's got an impressive selection of vegetarian and vegan food, and creative takes on traditional flavours.

Better still, the restaurant uses locally sourced ingredients, giving you fresh vegetables all year.

Damir & Ornella

While Damir & Ornella is a small restaurant, it's one of the most popular in Istria and highly regarded among foodies. Serving the freshest fish along with exciting side dishes, you'll eat well here - without breaking the bank.

San Rocco

San Rocco relies on an Italian influence to bring its vision to life, and the restaurant combines flavours from Italy and North Croatia. It's the perfect destination to unwind and enjoy hearty food in a boutique setting.

History and Culture in Istria

For history buffs, our villas in Istria offer the perfect escape. There's such a blend of historical influences in Istria that make it one of the most fascinating regions to visit in all of Croatia.

The peninsula has been under Roman, Venetian, Austrian and Yugoslavian rule for centuries. While its history is complex, the region flourishes today with astonishing architecture, a luscious landscape and distinct and delicious cuisine.

Pula Arena

One of Istria’s most iconic landmarks, the Pula Arena, is an architectural marvel that has stood the test of time. This Roman amphitheatre, dating back to the 1st century, once hosted fierce gladiatorial contests and now serves as a venue for concerts, film festivals, and even summer cinema under the stars. Walking through its grand arches, you can almost hear the echoes of ancient cheers.

Stroll through the Old Town

Rovinjv Old Town is one of those magical places that takes you back through time. Appreciate the old houses and cobbled streets, or browse some of Istria's unique boutiques, which specialise in olive oil, truffles and other delights.

It's a great way to explore, and there are plenty of coastal towns in the area too.

Temple of Augustus

Croatia has a rich history, and the Temple of Augustus takes you back to Roman times. The temple was dedicated to Rome's first emperor and still stands today. If you're in the area, it's well worth a visit.

Euphrasian Basilica

In Poreč, the Euphrasian Basilica is a dazzling testament to Istria’s early Christian heritage. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 6th-century basilica is renowned for its glittering mosaics, which rival those of Ravenna in their beauty. Step inside to admire its intricate artistry and experience a sense of serene reverence.

Grožnjan: Village of Artists

Known as the “town of artists,” Grožnjan is a creative haven where culture thrives amidst medieval charm. This hilltop village is a labyrinth of galleries, studios, and workshops, where artists showcase their work against a backdrop of stone streets and panoramic vistas. Visit during the summer to enjoy the sounds of live jazz echoing through its squares.

Family Fun in Istria

Istria might be a relaxed destination, but that's one of the things that makes it the perfect holiday destination for tourists. Parents can relax with their children without the busy nightclubs and enjoy some fun-filled days out.

Glavani Park

Glavani Park has an obstacle course suitable for young children and adults. Suspended in the air, participants compete in a range of challenges and have the opportunity to enjoy the thrilling high swings and catapults.

Dinopark Funtana

This might be the closest you get to living in your own version of Jurassic Park, as it delivers a range of fun-filled experiences for the whole family. With life-size dinosaurs that move and an arcade, you could easily spend the entire day here.

Memo Museum

The Memo Museum isn't an archaeological museum but rather a nostalgic trip. It features a range of exhibits and attractions, reminding people of life in the 20th Century. Kids will love the interactive elements of the museum, and it has plenty of history and culture.

Brijuni National Park

Take a short boat ride to the Brijuni Islands, where the whole family can explore a safari park featuring zebras, elephants, and other exotic animals. Hop on a guided train tour to uncover the islands’ rich history, including Roman ruins and the fascinating story of Tito’s private retreat. It’s the perfect blend of wildlife and cultural adventure.

Find Your Perfect Istria Villa Retreat

Istria is a real gem, which still holds much of its authentic charm because the local authorities have protected it - instead of building all over it. The best way to experience everything Istria offers is with one of our villas in Istria.

Our handpicked Istria villas ensure you have all the luxuries you'd expect but still get privacy. Located in Pula, Porec and Labin, you'll be close to medieval towns, the Adriatic coast and national parks.

Luxury villas Istria

Our luxe collection has everything you'll need to appreciate a fantastic holiday. Each of our villas in Istria is in the heart of popular Istrian towns and comes with a private pool, air conditioning, free WiFi and dining facilities.

Many are within a short walk of local restaurants and bars, so you'll be in a great location. From rustic holiday villas to modern villas, we offer something for everyone.

Escape to Istria – Reserve Your Dream Villa Today

With so much to offer in terms of natural beauty and history, Istria will take your breath away. Whether you're a foodie, a history buff or are looking to appreciate the rugged beauty of the Istrian coast, our Istria villas put you in the heart of the action.

Please feel free to browse our website and choose from a wide selection of villas, or contact us if you have any questions or would like advice on which villa in Istria is best for your needs.