Staying in Rovinj has its advantages, as it is easily accessible to the different Istrian coastal towns in Croatia, but also allows me to get to my next destination across Croatia later on.
It was a little rush squeezing everything within 2.5 days of sightseeing, but as it is the low season and a lot of places were closed, it was do-able.
I would have considered staying longer if the weather was warmer, and to enjoy sitting in a café in each town and people watch, or even go to take a dip in the clear waters. But I was also told when I picked up the rental car that during summer, it gets extremely crowded and lots of people and heavy traffic.
Hearing that, I much prefer to travel in the current times, so as to enjoy the places while it is quiet and appreciate the sights without the crowd. The best way to get around so many places in a short time was by car, and it was also very pleasant driving on the roads without much traffic. At times, I even had the whole place to myself!
The best way to get around is by a car rental as bus routes were rather limited especially during the winter.
The key spots visited in the regions are summarised below :
Rovinj
Although I was based out of Rovinj, I hardly had any time in this town since I spent the day exploring the rest of the places, and only had a couple hours on the night I arrived in the town as well as the morning just before I left Rovinj.
However this is probably the most beautiful medieval town out of all the places I went to. Walking through it's narrow cobblestone streets, I found myself immersed in a labyrinth of centuries-old architecture.
At the top is the Church of St. Euphemia, which offers panoramic views, and the harbour along with its fishing boats and seafood restaurants exude a coastal maritime charm.
I also bought a couple bottles of truffle here which were regarded as still fairly priced.
Lim's Fjord
A serene point for panoramic views that is a short drive away from Rovinj. Even the drive through the woods to get there was rather tranquil!
Poreč
Located north of Rovinj, its another historic town labyrinth with cobblestone streets, Venetian-era buildings and charming squares.
The main sight was the Euphrasian Basilica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It was a rainy day when I was there and so I didn't venture much of the city and found a restaurant to get a late lunch.
Being truffle region, a truffle laden pasta was a must!
Motovun
Located not too far from Livade is a hilltop town in the heart of Istria, Croatia. Narrow cobblestone streets lead to the town's heart, filled with medieval charm and panoramic vistas.
Viewpoint Ukotići
I came across this lovely spot while driving towards Pula. Someone had also left out some fruits which made nice decor.
Pula
The town of Pula had a number of roman architecture and influences spotted across the town.
The 2 famous architecture are the Pula Amphitheatre and Temple of Agustus
Pula Amphitheatre Arena
Pula Arena is the most famous and the largest monument in Pula. It is one of the best preserved Roman Empire theatres, the 6th largest Amphitheatre in the world. Arena is 133 m long, 105 m wide and 32 m high at its highest point. It could host up to 20,000 spectators. Arena was made in the 1st century AD, during the reign of the Emperor Vespasian. It is built of stone blocks, divided into 2 levels of our case while the last third story has rectangular openings.
Temple of Augustus
The Temple of Augustus is the oldest preserved building in Croatia. It was built at the Forum of Pula during the reign of the first Roman Emperor Augustus.
Kamenjak
Located at the southern tip of the Istrian Peninsula in Croatia, the protected peninsula is a haven of rugged landscapes with rocky coastlines, hidden coves and crystal clear waters.
I was amazed that there was not a single person or car in sight as I enjoyed the tranquility and diverse terrains this National Park had to offer.
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