An Introduction to the Istrian & Kvarner Rivieras

The Istria and Kvarner Rivieras are in the north of Croatia, situated along the largest peninsula in the Adriatic, with a spectacular shoreline and numerous bays, islands, coves and pebble and rocky beaches. This delightful coastline has a picturesque landscape often compared to Tuscany and Provence. The small coastal towns of Rovinj and Porec have a distinctive Venetian influence while Opatija is a sophisticated town once deemed one of Europe's most fashionable seaside resorts.
This is a land of idyllic quality where a rich medieval heritage of Roman architecture, frescoes and legends live in extraordinary harmony with modern and charming tourist resorts.
This enchanting region of old Venetian ports, classical architecture, sun-drenched beaches, vineyards and olive groves, quaint stone houses and old watermills offers holidays of value and quality.

Porec, or Parentium, as it was once known, was originally a Roman town strategically positioned on a wooded peninsula amongst small bays and uninhabited islets, washed by the clear and warm waters of the Adriatic. Its Roman heritage is distinctly visible with main streets named Decumanus and Cardo Maximus. Roman churches and villas, medieval walls and round towers, Gothic and Baroque houses all bear witness to the development of Porec throughout the long passage of time. This is an exquisitely built old stone town of Venetian-style houses, narrow cobbled streets, gold mosaic frescoes and its 6th century Euphrasian Basilica, a World Heritage site and one of the finest examples of Byzantine art.
Porec also boasts an exciting range of quality hotels, restaurants, nightclubs, cafés and bars matched only by a bewildering selection of activities and excursions. This beautiful, coastal resort has won many national tourism awards for its outstanding quality.

Local Costs - Istrian Riviera (Porec, Rovinj & Rabac)     

The prices shown are approximate and are based on popular locations during the main tourist season. Variations will apply according to location, season and style of establishment.

Large draft beer £2

Glass of wine £1.25

Litre bottle of restaurant house wine  £7.50

Litre Bottle of restaurant branded wine £12.50

Gin & tonic £4 (local gin); £4.20 (Gordon's gin)

Coca cola £1.50

Half litre of restaurant bottled water £1.25

Espresso coffee £0.60

Tea £0.75

Cappuccino £0.75

Snack lunch toasted sandwich or burger £2.25

Large Pizza  £5

Pasta dish £5

Salad £3

3 course dinner menu £12.50 per person

Ice cream £0.60p

Taxi from Porec to Rovinj one way £50.  NB local buses are frequent and inexpensive

Bicycle hire £10 per day

Pedallo £8 per hour

Canoe for 2 persons £6.25 per hour

Rowing boat £19 per hour

Quad bikes £37.50 for 3 hours

Excursions from Porec & Rovinj

This is a selection of the most popular excursions available from the Istrian resorts of Porec and Rovinj. The information given below is intended as a guide only. Transportation, guides and entrance fees are normally included. Meals are not included unless specified. Some tours may operate in the peak season and others may depend upon the weather.