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Istria itinery

We will be in the Istria peninsula for 3 days (based at Rovinj) in mid-May as part of a 12-day Croatia trip and would like any thoughts on this initial itinerary:

Arrive Rovinj late afternoon (coming from Plitvice Lakes).
Day 1 - day trip north to Motovun and/or Groznjan, then Kabola Winery. Are both towns feasible?
Day 2 - day trip to Ucka Nature Park (drive back down along the east coast). Any tips or thoughts on this park?
Day 3 - half day trip to Bale and Pula; Rovinj afternoon.

Thanks!

Posted by
5566 posts

I have not been to Istria yet but am hoping to get there eventually. I have been near Ucka park (https://www.pp-ucka.hr/en/) (stayed in Lovran and Opatija en route to Cres), and I can confirm there are some beautiful scenic drives, as I recall the route the bus took to the ferry port being particularly lovely.
Just based on my familiarity with the country, I would say that visits to multiple villages are possible in a day (they are small).

I also have Premantura (south of Pula) on my list.
happy travels!

Posted by
5567 posts

I go every year - for years.

Day 1 - Both are feasible. But there are better off the beaten path hill towns if you can find them.
Day 2 - I say no. Visit Porec instead or the Brijuni islands or Vrsar.
Day 3 - I don’t like Pula, but I like the Kamenjak peninsula. I also also recommend an olive oil tasting at Chiavalon.

Trying to decide between Pula or Rovinj as a base for a few days exploring Istria. I am very interested in the colosseum. Appreciate any info. Thanks

Posted by
2464 posts

The Pula Amphitheater is probably the most noteworthy attraction in what is, unfortunately, an industrial city that was a shipbuilding port.