Explore Istria

We are happy to give you tips and recommendations. Whether leisurely hikes, exciting trails for mountain bikers or relaxed excursions along the coast - there is something for everyone.

Pristine & natural landscape

The surroundings of Villa Kresina offer an impressive variety of natural and cultural treasures waiting to be discovered.

The region of Istria is known for its picturesque medieval towns and beautiful nature reminiscent of Italy. Explore the countryside by bike, train or car. There is a high-speed train station nearby that offers connections several times a day. This makes it easy to explore Istria by train, from Buzet in the north to Pula in the south. You can be in Pula in about 20 minutes.

Žminj - An idyllic little town in the heart of Istria

The small town of Žminj rises impressively on a high plateau. The church tower of the parish church of St. Michael the Archangel catches the eye from afar.

Žminj offers numerous sights, including the keep tower right next to the parish church, which has been preserved from the original fort. All around Žminj and its surrounding villages, green Istria awaits you with idyllic hiking and cycling trails that invite you to actively explore the region.

A visit to the surrounding Agroturizam inns, which serve fresh home-grown dishes and produce, is also highly recommended

Despite its central location in the Istria region, Žminj is also an interesting vacation destination for bathers. The sea and beaches as well as the popular Zarečki krov bathing area are just a few minutes' drive away.

Pazin

Pazin is a small paradise for all active vacationers. Surrounded by hills, gorges and mountains, hiking and cycling trails lead through the beautiful landscape around Pazin. Visit the Pazin Castle, the Ethnographic Museum, the Pazin Gorge with its grotto or the parish church of St. Nikola

If you're looking to cool off, you'll find it at the beautiful Zarečki krov waterfall and swimming area. There is also a beautiful climbing garden nearby, which provides additional adventure.

Rovinj - A picturesque coastal town

Just a short drive away is the beautiful town of Rovinj. This charming town is known for its many bars, cafés, taverns and beaches. Rovinj also boasts a valuable archaeological heritage dating back to the Roman Empire. Stroll through the narrow streets, enjoy local specialties and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere. Or take part in one of the city tours.

Pula - A city full of history

A 30-minute drive takes you to Pula, the largest city in Istria. Pula is famous for its ancient Roman monuments, including the best-preserved amphitheater in the world. The city also impresses with medieval Venetian palaces and modern entertainment in museums, galleries, bars and restaurants. Explore the hidden alleys and enjoy events with world-famous musicians, ballet performances under the stars, music and film festivals as well as street performances and concerts.

Cape Kamenjak - A natural jewel

Cape Kamenjak, a nature reserve on a 6 km long peninsula, is a true natural paradise. With breathtaking landscapes, fantastic flora and fauna, traces of dinosaurs and phenomenal beaches, this place is perfect for relaxation and adventure. Enjoy easy walks along the sea, cycling on the 27 km long bike trails, horseback riding or exciting activities such as surfing and diving to discover sunken ships and extraordinary underwater landscapes.

Grožnjan - The artists' paradise in central Istria

The small town lies on a 228-metre-high hill above the Mirna Valley.

With just over 160 inhabitants, Grožnjan is a true paradise for artists, art lovers and musicians. In May, this small town of artists comes to life. Over 30 galleries and studios of painters and sculptors invite you to visit and discover.

In addition to the numerous vernissages, Grožnjan also organizes many music events.

Motovun

A picturesque hilltop town where the MOTOVUN FILM FESTIVAL takes place every July. There are fantastic restaurants here with excellent truffle dishes

The path of the seven waterfalls

Discover the breathtaking nature along the Mirna River on the trail of the seven waterfalls. "Staza sedam slapova"

The Seven Waterfalls Trail is one of the most famous hiking trails in northern Istria. The approximately 5-hour, 13.5-kilometre circular trail starts and ends in southern Buzet, next to the Istrian waterworks by a bridge and leads along the river Mirna through picturesque villages before heading deeper into nature.

Instructions for the hike

In midsummer, the river may hardly have any water. We therefore recommend traveling outside the main season (July, August). But even without spectacular, deep-falling water, the hiking trail has its charms

Shopping opportunities

Shopping opportunities for regional food and Croatian products. We have personally tested all our recommendations and found them to be good

For us the best restaurants, bars and cafes

  • Karlov Vrt 1 52341 Žminj Croatia +385 (98) 9911795

    Classic/traditional, friendly staff in beautiful surroundings

  • 9. Rujan bb
    52341 Zminj
    +385 52 846 220

    The best pizza in Istria

  • Beram 41 52000 Beram Croatia +385 (52) 622801 helenajur84@gmail.com

    Konoba in the hinterland, the cuisine is classic and very good. Tender, juicy steaks, sausages and cheese are cooked over an open fire.

  • Cademia ul 22, 52210 Croatia

    00385 52 813397

    A konoba as you would wish for - rough stone walls and great staff. What the market has to offer every day is transformed into tasty dishes.

  • Josipa Tankovića bb, Rovinj-Rovigno
    +385 (0)52 813 150

  • Limski kanal 1, 52352, Kanfanar

    In an ambience with a view of the sea and surrounded by almost untouched nature, you can taste many fish and meat dishes. All dishes in the Viking restaurant are fresh and of high quality.

  • Ulica Frane Glavinića 1
    Kanfanar

  • A9, 52352, Mrgani, Croatia

Festivals and traditions

Experience the traditional folk festival Bartulja at the end of August in Žminj, dedicated to the patron saint St. Bartholomew.