ABOUT  ISTRIA

Istria is the largest Croatian (and the Adriatic sea) peninsula. Located in the northern Adriatic sea and territorially divided up between three coutries: Croatia (holds 90% of territory), Slovenia (holds 9% of territory) and Italy (holds less than 1% of terrritory). Peninsula's  location makes it the closest Mediterranean destination to countries of Central and Western Europe.

Istria is (geologically) divided into three parts:

• Red Istria (west seaside of Istria) where red-brown soil prevails.

 • Grey Istria (central Istria) where gray clay prevails.

• White Istria (slopes of mountain Učka and the eastern part of the peninsula) where rocky soil prevails.  

West seaside of Istria is more indented and has numerous shallows in comparison with the east part o Istria that is steeper and less populated.  

Today's tourist Istria offers plenty of different tourist accommodation capacities and activities. From those in its coastal region to those, that are becoming more wanted and more popular, in it's inland, rural areas. Beside already known stationary tourism in many hotels, tourist resorts, camps and private accommodation, Istria has steady grow of nautical tourism, conference tourism, hunting and fishing tourism, ecotourism, cultural tourism and sightseeing tours, wine and gastronomy tourism, sport and recreational tourism, diving tourism and equine tourism.

Tourist Istria is divided into two parts:

• Blue Istria ( or Istrian seaside with larg number of hotels and apartments categorization from 1 to 5 stars and with a wide range of sport, recreation, catering and entertainment capacities).

• Green Istria (inner part of Istria, with it's characteristic stone architecture and small towns  situated on hills). In the coastal area are typical  Mediterranean cities, where as green inland of Istria has numerous cultural, historical and natural sights and hilly villages with a panoramic view of the stunning surroundings. The Green Istria will greet you with a rich rural households and nature.

If you choose Buje, Buzet, Motovun, Grožnjan or any other place in the inland of the peninsula, you will find privacy and tranquility, fortified medieval cities and meet excellent gastronomy and wine.

Summer is important part of the tradition and tourist activities in ''Blue and Green Istria''. It's time when many traditional festivals take place and offer experience and possibility to learn more about folklore of Istria – traditional music, dances, costumes.  It's also a great opportunity to experience the spirit of Istria and to try local cuisine specialties.

The first known inhabitants of Istria were Histri from whom originated the name Istria. Numerous nations and cultures,  starting from the ancient Romans  to today's inhabitants, have left testimonies in every aspect of culture- in architecture, wall paintings and rich church architecture.

Rich cultural and historical heritage is a witnesses of  Istria's turbulent history. Visiting Istria you will see Roman amphitheater and triumphal arches, early Christian churches, Byzantine mosaics, Romanesque basilica, medieval towns on the hills, Renaissance frescoes, towers and city walls,  Gothic cathedrals , baroque palace, etc.

The Euphrasian Basilica in Poreč  was built in 553rd year and is part of UNESCO's universal cultural heritage. Pula's ancient monuments and medieval frescoes in the small churches, works of local masters, are also waiting to be listed as part of UNESCO's universal cultural heritage.

Looking at today's demographic picture of Istria, the Croats make about 75% of the population, while minorities make about 25% of the population, of which 7% are Italians and the rest various other nations.

Important cities and municipalities in Istria: Pula, Pazin, Poreč, Rovinj, Opatija, Umag, Novigrad, Labin, Buzet, Motovun.

Because of peninsula's mild Mediterranean climate, Istria is ideal vacation destination all year.

Summers are hot and dry, whereas winters are mild and pleasant. Spring and autumn are ideal to enjoy  in the natural beauty of inland of Istria (farms, wine routes ....), while summers  are a true oasis for visitors who want to enjoy the sun and the sea.

The sea is pleasant for swimming from May until the end of September.