tourist information rovinj croatia

Rovinj is a charmingly picturesque town with narrow, cobbled streets, striking many visitors as being very Italianate in nature. It is famous for the St Euphemia Cathedral , the highest church tower in Istria at 61 metres high.

The town was originally an island, but 250 years ago the narrow channel which separated it from the mainland was filled in. It is one of our favourite destinations on the Croatian Adriatic. It is so delightfully pretty, and also lively with its numerous cafes and restaurants, galleries and an active fishing port. In fact, in the mornings you can watch the fishermen come in as you have your breakfast.

Getting to Rovinj

You’ll most likely fly to Pula – see our Getting to Istria  page for flights to Pula from the UK, Ireland and Europe. Pula Airport is about 25 miles/40km south of Rovinj, and there are some direct buses from there to the town; see the timetable on the FILS website. For more options, take one of the frequent shuttle buses from the airport to the main bus station in Pula instead and then another bus to Rovinj (see timetables for both these bus routes on the Brioni website).

For more options, you could fly to Trieste or Venice in Italy and then transfer from there over to Istria. Flying to either of these places may be advantageous if you’re travelling out of season, or even in season and you’d like more flight choices. See our pages on Trieste and Venice  for details.

History of Rovinj

As with much of Istria, findings in the area show that Rovinj’s history stretches back to prehistoric times. The town was originally an Illyrian settlement populated by the Histri. Although Istria became part of the Roman Empire in 177 BC, Rovinj (Ruginium in Latin) was never a settlement of much importance.

Rovinj became one of the first towns in Istria to fall to Venice, which it did in 1283. Attacked several times over the next few centuries, the town fortified its walls. Rovinj also saw an influx in numbers in the 17th century. During this time, people chose to escape the plagues affecting neighbouring towns such as Porec and Pula.

At this point, the main part of Rovinj was still an island that was separate from the mainland, although the town had expanded onto it. For this reason, in 1763, the channel between Rovinj and the mainland was filled in.

As with the rest of Istria, Rovinj became part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in the early part of the 19th century, during which time it went into decline; after this empire dissolved post World War I, the town became part of Italy. In 1947, after World War II, Rovinj was ceded to Yugoslavia. It then was part of Croatia when it became an independent country.

Sightseeing in Rovinj

Visiting the Church of St. Euphemia (completed in 1736) is a absolute must – this is the largest Baroque building in Istria. Built according to plans by Venetian architect Giovanni Dizzi, the bell tower on the church is a copy of the one at St Mark’s Basilica in Venice. At 61 metres high, it is the tallest in Istria. The tower has a statue of St. Euphemia on it which is mounted so it moves according to wind direction. There are spectacular views over the rooftops of Rovinj and to the nearby islands from the top of the bell tower.

The Balbi Arch (Croatian: Luk Balbi) is from 1680 and is located at the spot which was once the entrance to Rovinj. The arch contains the coat of arms of the noble Balbi family and the Lion of Saint Mark, a symbol of the Venetian Empire.

Ulica Grisia is one of the main thoroughfares through the old part of town. It gets very busy during summer when an open air art festival is held.

The Old Town itself is another must see, and a reflection of what Rovinj was like when it was all packed onto one crowded island. The narrow, winding, cobbled streets, crammed-together houses and buildings and picturesque squares allow you to spend a lovely afternoon. Take a slow wander around before heading towards the harbour to stop at a cafe for a refreshing drink.

The Town Museum on Trg M Tita near the harbour is home to various archeological findings, and paintings and sculptures.

Rovinj Aquarium is one of the oldest in Europe, dating back to 1891. It houses various flora and fauna from specimens from around Rovinj and Istrian waters.

Eating and Drinking in Rovinj

Cap Aureo , in the Grand Hotel Park Rovinj, is a stunning place for both its food and the gorgeous setting on the fifth floor of this hotel. The vegetable-based dishes are prepared using seasonal ingredients to truly showcase Istria.

Monte was the first Michelin-starred restaurant in Croatia, and has been delighted foodies since 1985. These days, it offers three different menus – named Red, Green and Blue (lobster-based, vegetarian, or sea and land based) – to be ordered for the table, or dishes from the different menus can be combined.

Accommodation in Rovinj

For places to stay, we can recommend the centrally-located, but moderately-priced, Hotel Adriatic .

Do also see our comprehensive Accommodation in Rovinj  page for a comprehensive listing of hotels, private accommodation and other options.

General info

The tourist office is located at P. Budicina 12, tel: 052 811 566, fax: 052 816 007, email: [email protected].

For more, see the Tourist Office  website or Rovinj.net .

There is also a wealth of information at Rovinj.info , including details on private accommodation, property, holiday houses and the town’s gastronomic delights, beaches and attractions!

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10 Best Things to do in Rovinj, Croatia

Discover Rovinj: the jewel of Croatia’s Istrian Peninsula and one of the country’s prettiest cities! Often skipped in favor of more popular destinations like Hvar or Split, Rovinj shouldn’t be missed on your Croatia itinerary — home to romantic streets, a charming harbor, and brightly painted houses reminiscent of Italian coastal towns. Whether it’s exploring the bustling markets with delicious local produce, meandering among elegant boutiques in the Old Town, or simply relaxing on the beach with a cocktail in hand, there are plenty of things to do in Rovinj!

Things to do in Rovinj, Croatia

Rovinj, pronounced “Ro-veen”, is a buzzing fishing port at the head of the Adriatic Sea. With both the harbor and the tightly nestled houses of the Old Town to explore, visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to shops, galleries, bars, and restaurants. Plus, those looking for relaxation have endless cliffside beaches and paradise turquoise swim spots – just a stone’s throw away from lively cafe terraces.

Here are all your hotel options in Rovinj.

1. Explore Rovinj Old Town

The old town is the beating heart of Rovinj, situated on the headland that juts out into the Adriatic Sea. This beautiful spot is home to picturesque houses—painted in bright colors—that tightly line the cobblestone streets meandering down to the water. Most of these buildings have been transformed into Ateliers (artist’s studios); it’s a paradise for art lovers!

Join this popular walking tour of Rovinj

Wander the pedestrian walkways, exploring small alleyways that lead to tucked-away restaurants and charming bars, or peruse the many boutique shops. These streets feel very similar to some of Italy’s most famous coastal destinations, like Cinque Terre or Amalfi.

Tip: Go to location 1 and location 2 to get a perfect photo of the picturesque Old Town. Be sure to take care when walking through the alleys, though, as it can be very slippery – especially in flip-flops. High heels are definitely not recommended!

An Evening at the Waterside

After an afternoon of exploring, one of the best things to do in Rovinj is to head down to the pier for sunset. Follow this with a stroll along Rovinj Promenade and a visit to one of the cocktail bars lining the harbor! 

Note: Half a day is a good amount of time for exploring the Old Town and its quaint streets. Because of this, you could visit Rivinj on a day trip. However, we recommend staying in Rovinj overnight and using it to explore nearby cities like Pula and Porec.

Hotels in Rovinj 😴

2. Grisia Street and Balbi’s Arch

Grisia Street is the most famous in the city and top thing to do in Rovinj! Situated in the Old Town, it leads all the way to the stunning  Church of St. Euphemia.

To get to the street, you’ll pass through the intricately carved Balbi’s Arch, which marks the entrance to the oldest part of the city. Once you’ve emerged out the other side, you’ll find yourself in a colorfully painted street buzzing with boutiques, bars, and restaurants. This is easily one of the prettiest parts of Rovinj, so be sure to have your camera ready for photos!

Also read: Best things to do in Dubrovnik, Croatia

Did you know? Because of the large number of galleries, studios, and art exhibitions, Grisia is known as the ‘Artist Street’. This is also because it is the location for the famous fine arts event that is held annually. During this time, artists exhibit their work from all over Croatia and Europe . You’ll find displays of paintings, as well as handmade jewelry, ceramics, indigenous Istrian souvenirs, and artistic performances.

3. Swim at Plaža Balota

Plaza Balota is a stunning swimming spot just off the Old Town and one of the best things to do in Rovinj. It’s not your typical city beach; instead, there are big rocks to sunbathe, and you can enter the crystal blue water from ladders. It feels authentically Croatian, with no daybeds or beach bars, just locals enjoying summer fun: playing music, eating picnics, and jumping off the cliffs.

As it’s so close to town, it can get very busy during the day, with locals, visitors, and families filling up the rocks with their colorful towels and beach paraphernalia. Because of this, we recommend arriving early if you want to get a good spot!

Tip:   Bring water shoes to protect your feet from sharp rocks and sea urchins.

4. Church of St. Euphemia

For some of the best views in Rovinj, visit the Church of St. Euphemia (known as St. Fuma by the locals). This imposing baroque hilltop church can be seen from most areas in Rovinj and is an icon of the city. Plus, the bell tower provides panoramic vistas across the turquoise sea and colorful houses of the town.

Although the front of the church isn’t very detailed, the inside is beautiful, with yellow-toned walls and wonderful frescoes. It’s free to enter, but if you want the ultimate view, then climb the 200 steps to the top of the 60-meter-high church tower (4 EUR). You won’t be disappointed by the incredible scenery up here — one of the top things to do in Rovinj!

Tip: The stairs to the top are a little worn and creaky (it’s not a climb for the faint of heart!).

5. Rovinj Market

This buzzing market in Rovinj, Croatia, is where locals come to do their shopping, perusing the vendors for fresh fruits and vegetables as well as many artisanal products such as liqueur and honey. If it is a souvenir you are after, there is plenty to choose from, too!

The market is located in the center of the town, so you can easily take a break from shopping in one of the many cafes nearby. Here is the exact location .

Tip: While this market is idyllic, it is on the pricey side! However, the products are high-quality and made locally.

Follow the complete 7-day Croatia itinerary!

6. Zlatni Rt (Golden Cape)

Just a 10-minute drive from Rovinj’s buzzing streets, discover the remote oasis of Zlatni Rt. Nestled in this verdant nature reserve are the pebbly shores of Zlatni Rt Beach , also known as ‘Golden Cap’. The stones make for crystal-clear water that’s perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Tip: For a unique way to explore Zlatni Rt, rent a bike from Rovinj Center. You can enjoy a leisurely cycle along the forest park’s paths, stopping for a dip and a refreshing drink along the way.

Alternatively, see tickets and availability for a kayak tour around Golden Cap

7. Visit Kamenjak National Park and Pula for the Day

Rovinj is the perfect place to base yourself to explore the fantastic surrounding countryside and cities in Istria. Two of the best day trips from the city are:

Start the day with a visit to the historic city of Pula (just 20 minutes from Rovinj), home to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in Croatia! 

The Pula Arena is the most iconic landmark of the city, also known as the Pula Amphitheater, and is one of the 6th largest surviving amphitheaters in the world. In days gone by, many gladiator fights would have taken place here, overlooked by up to 26,000 spectators. These days, it has a more tranquil use, mainly used as a location for concerts and film festivals. 

After a morning exploring the Amphitheater and other historical sites like Forum Square, head for the beautiful beaches near the city — a city break and beach visit all rolled into one! 

Discover the 10 best things to do in Pula

Tip: A hop-on/hop-off sightseeing bus runs during the summer months.  It has an audio tour in many different languages and stops at the main sights in town.

Kamenjak National Park

For nature lovers with plenty of energy, the Kamenjak National Park is a must-do! Not far from Rovinj, Croatia, this beautiful nature reserve is located in a protected area of Southern Istria.

Kamenjak is packed full of outdoor activities, making it ideal for those who want to get active while exploring the natural beauty of the area. Enjoy the network of hiking trails, windsurf off the headland, snorkel in the turquoise sea, or kayak among the sea caves. Kamenjak National Park is one of the best things to do in Rovinj! 

Tip: For the real adrenaline-seekers, there’s even the option for cliff-diving. Alternatively, just watch the locals make the thrilling jump while you enjoy the relaxing shores of the beach. 

We recommend to rent a car in Croatia through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

8. Explore the Village of Bale

The fascinating village of Bale may be tiny, but it makes up for it in character! It’s one of the best villages we visited in Croatia and is particularly nice to walk around in the late afternoon or early evening as the sun goes down.

We recommend reserving a table at Restaurant La Grisa for dinner, with a wonderful outdoor terrace overlooking the valley and pretty village rooftops — bliss! After dinner, there is a great jazz cafe nearby called Kamene Priče, which sits at the center of the Old Town. Give it a try; we loved it!

Tip: Unsurprisingly, with Rovinj being so close to Italy , Bale is a bilingual town and is also known as Valle in Italian!

9. Day trip to Venice

Rovinj in Istria is located close to Venice. A day trip from Rovinj to Venice gives you the opportunity to discover iconic landmarks like St. Mark’s Basilica, go on a gondola ride through the charming canals, and experience the city’s delicious cuisine.

Rovinj to Venice Ferry

The Rovinj to Venice ferry service allows you to enjoy a full day in Venice and return to Rovinj the same day. You can also opt to stay overnight and explore the streets of Venice in the morning, which is usually a quieter time to visit Venice.

See ferry tickets and availability for a boat trip to Venice from Rovinj .

10. Grotta Baredine Cave

One of the best things to do in Rovinj is to take a trip to Grotta Baredine, an unforgettable cave that lies 60 meters underground. As you walk down into the cave, the temperature drops and the colors of the stone intensify as you emerge into a whole new underground world! 

Join a cave tour that takes you into 5 different chambers, each of which is home to thousands of stalactite and stalagmite formations. There’s even an underground lake! You’ll first need to pay your entrance fee (11 EUR) before you’re assigned a group where they offer different languages.

The tour takes 40 minutes and is the perfect thing to do at the hottest time of the day. If you have to wait for your tour to start, there is a small restaurant where you can buy drinks and food.

Tip: We recommend wearing suitable footwear to explore the Grotto Baredine, as the paths into the cave can be slippery.

Our Favorite Restaurants and Cafes

You are spoilt for choice when it comes to eating out in beautiful Rovinj. Tucked away in the alleyways of the Old Town are many charming restaurants, cafes, and bars, each with its own unique charm and taste. Here are some of our favorites:

• Pizzaria Stari grad
• Mediterraneo (cocktails)
• Augusto (coffee)
• Tunaholic fish bar
• Piazzetta bar
• Santa Croce
• Limbo (cocktails)
• Rovinj Mali Raj

Tip: Get a cheap breakfast at the Mlinar bakery before a day of exploring in Rovinj, Croatia!

Where to Stay in Rovinj

As Rovinj is such a small town, all accommodation is well-located; you’ll always be within walking distance of the Old Town and beach. The Old Town is a particularly scenic spot and offers a wide range of accommodations, from charming apartments to boutique hotels and B&Bs. Please bear in mind that it can be noisy, as it’s home to many bars and restaurants. We stayed in this hotel .

Tip: Most of the Old Town is pedestrianized, so you’ll need to park away from your accommodation. Alternatively, if you stay further out, you will find the bigger hotels, large tourist resorts, and campsites. These are more suitable options if you are traveling by car and want to park close by.

How Many Days in Rovinj

Depending on your travel plans and how much you want to explore, you could easily spend a few days in and around the town of Rovinj, Croatia. Alternatively, stay for up to a week to visit locations nearby, such as Bale and Kamenjak National Park . 

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How to Visit Rovinj, Croatia

Rovinj lies just 30 km north of Pula and 266 km away from Venice , making it a popular destination for many Europeans. It is the perfect summer getaway and most definitely worth a visit.

The closest airport to Rovinj, Croatia, is Pula (PUY), which is 45 minutes by car.  However, Venice has many more flights and is just 4 hours away by bus (Flixbus operates 4 x a week). There are also many internal flights in Croatia if you are hopping around the main cities.

If you want to be independent and not rely on public transport, then hiring a car is your best option. There are plenty of things to do outside of the town of Rovinj, Croatia, and a car gives you more flexibility on your Croatia itinerary .

Croatia has an excellent bus and ferry network; buses are frequent, reliable, and affordable. If you’re flying into Pula, the bus journey takes around 40 minutes. If you’re flying into Venice , the journey time is approximately 4 hours by bus.

Book your bus tickets in advance here

The ferries in Croatia are one of the best options for getting around on your trip. If you fly into Venice, you can pick up a high-speed ferry and be in Rovinj in just three hours. Ferries on this route only run in the high season, with 1-2 daily journeys. It’s not cheap at around 79 EUR, but it’s a great way to start your vacation.

Book your ferry tickets in advance here

Getting Around Rovinj, Croatia

The only way to get around this pretty town is on foot because Rovinj’s Old Town is on a car-free peninsula. The town is small, and the streets are narrow, so it is very easy to walk through them and explore. If you choose to take a walking tour, this takes just 1.5 hours.

If you are planning to visit some nearby sites and beaches, then having your own transportation is a good idea. However, there are also good local buses and ferries to explore the Istrian coast.

How Much Does Rovinj Cost?

Croatia is growing in popularity all the time, and it’s easy to see why when you get there! While it was once really good value, it is steadily becoming more expensive. Like all places in Europe, you will see higher prices in the peak summer months, although there are always budget-friendly options.

Costs of Traveling in Rovinj

Travel on a budget in Rovinj, from $420 − $450 USD weekly per person, mid-range $1020 − $2050 USD, and high-end from $1860 − $2790 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $50 − $200 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $20 − $40 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $2 − $10 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $30 − $50 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $30 − $100 USD
• Activities: $5 − $40 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Rovinj, Croatia, is during the shoulder seasons (April to June and September to October). The weather is warm at this time, and temperatures stay around 15 to 25 degrees Celsius, making it ideal for sightseeing and sunbathing!

Tip: Every June, the famous annual Summer Salsa festival is held in Rovinj, Croatia . It is here that the modern history of salsa began, and the festival is full of open-air dancing, workshops, shows, and live concerts — not to be missed on your Croatia itinerary!

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Rovinj Croatia: Travel Guide to Croatia’s Prettiest City

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If you want to see one of the most beautiful cities on the Adriatic Sea, you should travel to Rovinj, Croatia. Rovinj (pronounced ro-VEEN) is a surprise to most people who visit it.

Sure, this is technically Croatia — but Rovinj looks like it could be in Italy! Almost like an extension of Venice! And while Dubrovnik gets all the glory, I think that Rovinj is even more beautiful.

Rovinj is located in Croatia’s Istria region, a heart-shaped peninsula that looks and feels a lot like Italy, its legacy as part of the Venetian empire until the 18th century. It’s not just the olive trees, pasta dishes and pastel buildings — even the places have Italian names. (Rovinj’s Italian name is Rovigno .)

READ MORE: Make sure you save my full Istria guide here for later!

Rovinj is a magical city — but like everywhere else in Croatia, you’ll have a better time if you plan your trip carefully in advance. That’s the point of this Rovinj travel guide: to show you how to plan a trip to Rovinj so you can relax and focus on being enchanted upon arrival.

This post was last updated in December 2022.

Table of Contents

Why Travel to Rovinj, Croatia?

Why travel to Rovinj when you can go anywhere else in Croatia — or in Europe? I’ve traveled extensively in Croatia, including two full months of Croatian travel in summer 2020, and Rovinj is one of my favorite destinations in the country. Some of its qualities set it apart.

Rovinj is one of the best places in Croatia for photography. Just look at that image above! It’s straight out of a fairy tale! The colors are earthy and vibrant, and there are lots of interesting details to shoot in the Rovinj old town.

Rovinj is an excellent base for road trips. The Istrian peninsula is small enough that you can go virtually anywhere in Istria within 90 minutes, making it possible to see cool places and not change hotels each day.

Rovinj is one of the better culinary destinations in Croatia. While most of the Dalmatian Coast tends to serve the same menu over and over, in Rovinj you have access to superb truffles, olive oil and wine, and inventive restaurants like Cap Aureo.

If you’re a sunset junkie, Rovinj is a fantastic destination. The shape and curve of the city on the west coast means that you can get excellent sunset photos from lots of different angles.

Some of the best things to do in Rovinj are exploring the old town, taking a day trip to Motovun , enjoying cocktails on the waterfront at sunset, and renting a bike to explore the nearby parks.

If you’re looking for a truly special place to stay in Rovinj, you will love the Grand Park Hote l. The view from the rooftop pool is UNREAL!

Rovinj is pronounced ro-VEEN.

My favorite times to visit Rovinj are September and June . If you’re okay with warm but not lie-on-the-beach weather, May and October are very nice times to visit Rovinj. July and August are extremely hot and crowded. Overall, the best months to visit Rovinj are May, June, September, and October.

Best Things to Do in Rovinj

Rovinj is a small city, and so many of its pleasures come from aimlessly walking through its narrow streets. A lot of people are happy to simply relax in Rovinj, but if you’re looking for more activities, there are a lot of great things to do.

Explore the Old Town of Rovinj

The first thing you have to do is get out and explore the old town! This car-free old town is a great place in which to get lost. On the main streets you’ll find lots of small shops selling local art and products like olive oil and truffles. There are so many hidden nooks and crannies to photograph.

Don’t miss Grisia Street, the artists’ street filled with interesting shops and art galleries.

You’ll want to wear decent shoes, as you’ll be walking up very steep hills, climbing lots of stairs, and many of the cobblestones are smooth to the point of being slippery. This is not the place for stilettos! If you’ve got the right footwear and stamina, it’s a great way to spend a morning.

Note that Rovinj’s old town is challenging for people with mobility difficulties due to the steep hills, super-smooth stones, and stairs. The edges of the old town and edges along the waterfront are accessible by wheelchair.

Climb to the Top of the Church of St. Euphemia

The bell tower of St. Euphemia Church is that steeple you see sticking out over the top of Rovinj. Can you climb to the top of the bell tower? You absolutely can!

Ordinarily, I’m a bit divided over seeing the view from the tallest place in town — it means that your photos are missing its most obvious landmark. (Classic example: photos from the top of the Eiffel Tower don’t contain the Eiffel Tower!)

But that’s not the case here. The view from the top of St. Euphemia Church is outstanding, taking in the harbor, islands, and 360-degree views of the landscape.

The spectacular views from the top are well worth the climb.

Explore Zlatni Rat Park and St. Katarina Island

One of the best ways to enjoy the outdoors in Rovinj Croatia is to explore the parks in the surrounding area.

Zlatni Rat — yes, Golden Horn, the same name as that famous beach on Brač island — is a park just south of the city and the oldest protected site in Istria. It’s also known as Golden Cape Natural Park. Here you can enjoy walking and biking trails along with pebbly beaches.

A nice way to get to Zlati Rat is on a bike. You can rent bikes for adults and kids at Song Bike Rentals in the heart of Rovinj. If you’re more ambitious, you can explore a lot of the surrounding region by bike!

Another option is to visit St. Katarina Island. Boats make the five-minute journey from Rovinj’s old town every hour. The eastern side of the island is home to pebble beaches with a spectacular view of the city; the western side is home to some tall cliffs (and daredevils who love to jump off them!).

Rovinj Beaches

Is Rovinj a beach destination? Honestly, I wouldn’t call it a beach destination. The city beaches aren’t nearly as good as Dubrovnik’s ; you need to get away from the city to find the nicest beaches.

But you will find some nice slabs of rocks on the edge of the old city. If you don’t mind hanging out on a hard strip of rock, they make a stunning place to sun yourself for a few hours. Otherwise, they’re nice for a quick dip.

There are better beaches at Zlatni Rat Park, on St. Katarina Island, and further up and down the coast. My favorite slab beaches are in Kamenjak, at the bottom of the Istrian peninsula .

Explore the Lim Fjord

Lim Fjord, or Channel, is one of the popular day trips by boat from Rovinj. This natural channel, a sunken canyon, once served as a divider between the regions of Dalmatia and Italia in Roman times. The channel is filled with hot springs and attracts a diverse array of wildlife, including lots of delicious fish and shellfish.

There are lots of boat tours direct from Rovinj. Most tours take you directly into the channel, showing you the nature and serving a seafood meal. You can book direct from tons of companies within Rovinj.

If you’re driving to Poreč or other points north, there are lots of free viewing platforms to photograph the Lim Fjord, like this one. (You’ll notice that the light isn’t great in this photo. It was taken around noon. You’ll have better light in the late afternoon.)

Sip sunset cocktails at Valentino

Along the waterfront in Rovinj, there are countless bars and restaurants where you can drop in for a drink and a view of the sunset. Most of them are pretty standard places to get a gin and tonic — or a glass of Malvasia, an Istrian white wine.

But if you want something more special, go to Valentino. This sophisticated beach bar is on the edge of the sea and carved into the natural rocks. With a view facing westward, you have a perfect view of the sunset!

The cocktails definitely aren’t cheap (they were around 100 kuna, or $15 — essentially, New York City cocktail prices). But it’s nice to go somewhere where you can feel pampered, and you can’t beat the setting!

Have a wildly inventive meal at Cap Aureo

I had one of the most creative meals of my life at Cap Aureo at the Grand Park Hotel, who hosted me for dinner. Cap Aureo serves a menu entirely of small plates, each of which serves as a building block in a story, and the servers can guide you through choosing an appropriate collection of plates.

These are some of the most inventive dishes I’ve ever seen! A Leek Wellington — just like a Beef Wellington, but putting the humble vegetable center stage. Scallops with horseradish (pictured above) were outstanding; plums with cinnamon and pepper made a tasty dessert. And I adored a high-end spin on an Istrian childhood favorite: fried dough with kajmak (a creamy cheese) and truffle.

The most inventive dish? Squid cacio e pepe. As in the squid was the pasta! Rings of squid were sliced into pasta-like thickness and served in the cheese with pieces of plump pink shrimp. What a crazy idea.

If you’re looking to splurge on exactly one meal on the Istrian coast, cash in all your chips at Cap Aureo. This is the best restaurant for a meal you’ll be talking about for weeks.

Enjoy a meal in the countryside at Agroturizam Valrosa

My boyfriend Charlie got his hair cut in Rovinj and asked his barber for a dining recommendation. He enthusiastically recommended Agroturizam Valrosa , a farm just outside the city. Far from the crowds of the waterfront, this farm was a rustic, welcoming experience.

The farm is run by a father and son, Sandro and Viktor. Viktor quit his job as the Food and Beverage Director of a five-star hotel to start the Agroturizam with his dad! He’s loving the simpler, less stressful lifestyle and getting to spend more time with his family while showcasing the best of Istria to visitors.

We were treated like royalty here! There is no fixed menu, but they kept making suggestions and bringing us way more than we asked for. Everyone kept coming over to suggest more food and make sure we were having a good time!

Best of all, there were lots of kittens running around the farm, most of whom kept their distance from us. “If you can catch one, you can take it with you,” Viktor told us. WHAT. We literally had to talk each other out of taking a kitten with us!

I recommend taking a taxi to Agroturizam Valrosa so you don’t have to keep turning down all the homemade wines and liqueurs they keep bringing you. If you’re not drinking, feel free to drive yourself.

Catch the sunset from every angle.

Rovinj is brilliantly situated for sunsets, thanks to its curvy waterfront. You can get different colors from different angles.

If you’re spending several days in this charming town, try to catch the sunset at several different spots. Oh, I miss Rovinj’s sunsets so much!

Best Day Trips from Rovinj

The good news is that virtually everywhere in Istria is within a 90-minute drive from Rovinj. You can go anywhere in Istria — inland hill towns, coastal cities, protected nature areas — as a day trip. On this list I’m not going to give you a list of 60 options, but instead single out my personal favorites.

Here is a list of my recommended day trips from Rovinj:

Vodnjan and Bale

If you’re staying in a seaside town in Istria, it’s good to visit some inland towns as well to get to know the diversity of the region. Vodnjan and Bale are two inland towns located just outside Rovinj and it makes a lot of sense to pair them together.

Bale is a pretty little town that is nice to walk around for a bit. When I first visited Istria in 2012, I was a huge fan of Kamene Price , a combination cafe, guesthouse, and jazz bar — and I was delighted to see it going strong in 2020! Even better? This quirky cafe is filled with art, features musical performances, and it’s for adults only ( very rare in the extremely family-friendly country of Croatia).

Vodnjan is one of the more unique small towns in Istria. That blood-red building in the photo above is one of the most photographed buildings in Istria. The town is full of interesting murals and street art — very uncommon in Istria.

But most memorable are the mummies. Vodnjan’s Church of St. Blaze is home to more than 300 Christian relics — and the mummified bodies of six saints. They’re hidden in the back of the church, and no, they may not be photographed. It’s a spooky experience you won’t forget anytime soon. Visiting the church itself is free; seeing the mummies costs 50 kuna ($8).

How much time do you need in Vodnjan and Bale? You don’t need a ton of time. Half a day could be sufficient for visiting both towns.

How far are they from Rovinj? Bale is an 18-minute drive from Rovinj; Vodnjan is a 30-minute drive from Rovinj.

In many ways, Poreč seems like a “baby Rovinj” — just up the coast (thought you need to drive all the way around the Lim Fjord to get there), a similar coastal look, and not as stunning, though a perfectly pleasant place to visit.

But there is one special thing that should draw you to Poreč — the Episcopal Complex of the Euphrasian Basilica. This is the one and only UNESCO World Heritage Site in all of Istria, and it dates back to the 4th Century. The complex is located right in the heart of old town Poreč, with several different rooms and sections, many of them with interesting architecture.

It culminates in the Basilica itself, with classical Roman columns and Byzantine mosaics. Entry is 50 kuna ($8).

Beyond that, Poreč has a lovely and colorful old town to explore, similar to Rovinj’s — but much flatter!

How much time do you need in Poreč? Honestly, I got in and out of Poreč in 90 minutes, spending most of my time on the Basilica, though I didn’t take much time to explore the town. I don’t think you need more than a half day. If you want a more robust day trip from Rovinj, you could add visits to the nearby coastal towns of Vrsar and/or Novigrad.

How far is Poreč from Rovinj? Poreč is a 40-minute drive from Rovinj.

Motovun and Grožnjan

Motovun is the most famous hill towns in Istria, and you’ll know it when you see it! You’re driving along flat road, and all of a sudden a giant hill appears, a town improbably built on top of it. Just driving up to Motovun is an adventure.

Motovun is a lovely place to wander (but do note that the city center is car-free, requiring a steep walk up cobblestones and back again, making it tough for people with mobility challenges). There are several restaurants overlooking the view. I recommend getting fuže pasta with truffles and a glass of white Malvasia wine! Also, don’t miss walking the city walls. If you’re lucky, you might see some paragliders soaring through the air!

Once you leave the city, here’s a special tip: the best view of Motovun is from a restaurant south of the city called Fast Food Vidik. That’s where the photo above was taken.

And if you’re into wine, definitely plan a stop at Roxanich , a family-owned boutique wine hotel at the base of the town. Roxanich hosted me for three nights, and it’s a superb place to stay if you’re exploring inland Istria. They do really unusual things with Croatian wines that you can’t find anywhere else.

Just 20 minutes from Motovun is Grožnjan, one of my favorite small towns on the planet. Grožnjan is a tiny, impossible pretty little town, home to artists and musicians. You will love dipping in and out of the galleries, and in the summer months, it’s home to a classical music school — so you hear musicians practicing from every corner of the town! It’s magical.

How much time do you need in Motovun and Grožnjan? Plan on a full day, starting in Motovun and staying there for lunch. Save Grožnjan for the afternoon. If you have time to spare, you can add on a visit to the town of Buje, a 10-minute drive from Grožnjan.

How far are Motovun and Grožnjan from Rovinj? Motovun and Grožnjan are each a one-hour drive from Rovinj.

Are you looking to explore the outdoors of Istria? I highly recommend Kamenjak, the cape at the southern tip of the Istrian peninsula, just south of the town of Premantura. Kamenjak is a protected area home to stunning rock slab beaches and clear teal water.

Some of the beaches in Kamenjak are low-key and more for families; others are tailored for daredevils with their high cliffs. It’s the kind of destination to explore randomly and find your perfect place, maybe stopping to rent a paddleboard or kayak. Definitely don’t miss the Safari Bar, a jungle-like attraction right near the cliffs.

A one-day entrance pass to Kamenjak via car costs 80 kuna ($13).

How much time do you need in Kamenjak? You know yourself best when it comes to beach time — either an afternoon or a full-day. Be sure to stop for an ice cream in Premantura on your way back.

How far is Kamenjak from Rovinj? Kamenjak is a one-hour drive from Rovinj.

Pula is the largest city in Istria, and it’s famous for its Roman amphitheater (also known as the Arena). A lot of people prioritize Pula on their Istria itineraries, and some even choose to stay here.

But if you’re staying in Rovinj, Pula isn’t going to impress you. It’s larger, rough around the edges, and not nearly as pretty; with the exception of the Arena, Rovinj has everything that Pula has. For that reason, I think it’s worth a short visit, especially if you’re into Roman ruins, but not worth devoting a full day here.

Pula is also home to a restaurant I always visit whenever I’m in the area: Jupiter Pizzeria . That black truffle pizza is sensational!

How much time do you need in Pula? I think most people would be happy with just half a day. Here’s a tip: if you’re going to Kamenjak, hit up Pula on the way back to Rovinj to check out the amphitheater, stroll the old town, and get pizza at Jupiter Pizzeria.

How far is Pula from Rovinj? Pula is a 45-minute drive from Rovinj.

The Brijuni Islands are an archipelago of 14 islands off the coast of southwest Istria. Their claim to fame? Yugoslav president Tito had his summer residence here. Today, it’s a wonderful getaway from the mainland.

Ferries take you from the town of Fažana on the mainland to Veliki Brijun, the largest of the islands. From here you can take a train tour around the island, see Tito’s animals (including a 60-year-old talking parrot named Koki) at the safari park, visit a 1600-year-old olive tree and Mediterranean Garden, take in a theater performance at the Ulysses theater, and more.

A ticket to Brijuni includes round-trip ferry tickets from Fažana as well as the train tour, safari park admission, Mediterranean Garden and Old Olive Tree admission, and a visit to the permanent exhibit displays. High season tickets cost 230 kuna ($36).

How much time do you need in Brijuni? You should plan for a full day in Brijuni, considering the ferry schedule and all there is to do. There are several restaurants for lunch.

How far is Brijuni from Rovinj? Fažana is a 35-minute drive from Rovinj; Veliki Brijun is a 15-minute ferry ride from Fažana.

Piran, Slovenia

Visit another country for the day? Why not?! Rovinj is very close to the Slovenian border and just past the border is the lovely city of Piran, the loveliest gem on Slovenia’s whisper of a coastline.

Piran is a beautiful town, but frankly, it’s not that different from Rovinj. It has a very similar look and culture. I understand the urge to check off a brand new country on your list, but if you’re going to do Slovenia, take three or four days and DO SLOVENIA. Ljubljana, Bled, Bohinj, Idrija, the Skocjan Caves…it’s a gorgeous country and very compact, making it easy to see more in a short period of time.

How much time do you need in Piran? A full day will give you the amount of time you need.

How far is Piran from Rovinj? Piran is a 90-minute drive from Rovinj. Keep in mind that there may be a long wait at the border.

READ MORE: The Ultimate Slovenia Road Trip Itinerary

Where to Stay in Rovinj

Rovinj is a small city, and as long as you’re within a short walk of the old town, you’ll be in good shape. (Keep in mind that many properties that claim to be in Rovinj are often far away; double-check the walking distance on Google Maps.)

Cars are not allowed in the old town of Rovinj. If you have a car with you, you’re going to have to either find accommodation that provides parking or use one of the parking lots on the edge of the city.

Grand Park Hotel

On this trip I stayed at the Grand Park Hotel , who hosted me for three nights. This is one of the best five-star properties in Rovinj, and it has the best view in town. We arrived after a long drive from Split, just as the warm colors of twilight were beginning to hit Rovinj, and I immediately ran to the bar to photograph it!

This is a beautiful hotel with a new, modern design. Each of the rooms are built on terraces covered with plants, looking out upon the city of Rovinj. Everything feels intentional and specific here, and that adds to the experience. Everything is a delight to look at.

Our room was large and sumptuous, with the best balcony perk you can imagine.

Here’s a look at our room:

The sea views from the rooms are wonderful, but get better the further up your room is. Our room even had a private plunge pool! It wasn’t heated (which was fine in summer!) and there was a button to turn on the jets.

The room is a great place for lounging — but the best perk of the hotel by far is the outdoor pool. Specifically, the rooftop infinity pool.

If you stay at the Grand Park Hotel, you absolutely MUST block out extensive time for the pool. At least an afternoon. I absolutely adored reading my Kindle on the edge of the pool while overlooking the best view in Rovinj!

The Grand Park Hotel is definitely a special occasion kind of hotel. If you’re looking to mark a milestone birthday or anniversary in Rovinj, this hotel is the best way to make your celebration feel special.

Low-season rates at the Grand Park Hotel start at 275 EUR ($326) per night; high-season rates start at 375 EUR ($445) per night. Valet parking is included.

How to Get to Rovinj

If you’re flying to Rovinj, the nearest airport is in Pula, about a 45-minute drive away. Pula’s airport primarily serves budget airlines in Europe, making it a popular choice for European travelers. I happened to fly in on a budget airline’s inaugural flight from Manchester to Pula in 2012!

A taxi from Pula Airport to Rovinj will cost about 450 kuna, or $70. You can also take a shuttle bus from Pula Airport to Pula’s bus station for 30 kuna ($5) and then get the bus to Rovinj, which costs around 37 kuna ($6).

If you’re traveling to Rovinj from outside of Europe, your best choice may be to fly into Zagreb or Venice. Both airports are about a three-hour drive from Rovinj.

I find that Skyscanner tends to have the lowest fares: check out Skyscanner’s fares here .

You can also take a ferry from Venice to Rovinj on Venezia Lines; the journey takes three hours and 45 minutes. There are currently daily sailings. You can check the ferry schedule here.

How to Get Around Rovinj

Rovinj is easily traversed on foot, though there are also a few boats that can take you from place to place!

Best Time to Visit Rovinj

Rovinj’s high season is during the summer months. While this is a beautiful time to visit Croatia, it’s also very hot and crowded, and prices will be at their peak. I understand that many people are only able to travel during the summer, and that’s fine! Just expect the crowds and higher prices.

Rovinj Summer Festival takes place from mid-July through late August and features musical performances all over the city.

That being said, Rovinj and the Istria region doesn’t have the nearly-perfect weather of Dubrovnik and the Dalmatian Coast, nor does it have quite as long a summer.

If you’re looking for summer weather, I recommend visiting Rovinj in early-to-mid-June or mid-to-late September. If you’re okay with pleasant warm temperatures, May and October are lovely times to visit.

And while Rovinj is still an active city, much of the tourist-oriented businesses shut down in the winter. I don’t recommend visiting Rovinj in the winter months.

• Best Time to Visit Croatia

Travel Insurance for Croatia

A lot of people don’t think it’s necessary to get travel insurance for Croatia — after all, it’s a safe country with decent healthcare. But you need it.  If you get sick or injured on your trip, if you get robbed, or even if you have to be flown home, travel insurance will protect you from financial ruin.  I use and recommend World Nomads for trips to Croatia.

I have thankfully never needed to call my travel insurance for help while in Croatia — but I have had several friends who had to use theirs. One who had to visit the hospital after being stung by a wasp in Split, one who sprained her ankle after falling down the steps in Dubrovnik, and one who got her wallet stolen and needed to go to the police station.

While Croatia’s hospital prices aren’t anywhere near what the US would charge you, you could end up paying a lot of money for a serious medical issue. But travel insurance protects you and refunds you for your costs. It’s the kind of thing you don’t know you need until you need it.  See if World Nomads is right for you here.

Rovinj is waiting for you!

Rovinj is the kind of destination that invites you back again and again.

I hope you get to enjoy Rovinj as much as I did. Go enjoy your trip — then come back and tell me all about it!

Planning a Trip to Croatia:

• Two Weeks in Croatia Itinerary
• What NOT to Do in Croatia
• Solo Female Travel in Croatia: Is it Safe?
• 30 Stunning Mediterranean Islands To Visit In Your Lifetime

Croatian Islands and the Dalmatian Coast:

• How to Spend Three Days in Dubrovnik
• Why Korčula, Croatia, is the Coolest Island of All
• Vis, Croatia, is a Quietly Stunning Island
• Dubrovnik Survival Guide
• The Waterfalls of Krka National Park
• A Place Like Zadar
• 30 Fabulous Things To Do in Split, Croatia
• 29 Sunny Things To Do In Hvar, Croatia

Istria and the North:

• Places to Visit in Istria, Croatia’s Italian-Flavored Peninsula
• 21 Unforgettable Things To Do In Zagreb, Croatia

Many thanks to the Grand Park Hotel for hosting me for three nights and providing the full tasting menu experience at Cap Aureo and to the Croatia Tourism Board for facilitating our introduction and support throughout summer 2020. All opinions, as always, are my own.

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Rovinj Rovinj

Romantic Mediterranean

On the magnificent coast of Istria (Croatia), right below the Lim Fjord, is the most romantic place in the Mediterranean!

The town of Rovinj is the right destination for all of you seeking a sentimental atmosphere of the times that have forever gone by. In the Mediterranean, you can find it here, in the town that has begun its romantic life on an island, its restricted area resulting in crowded houses, narrow streets and small squares, still untouched by modern urbanism. On the seaside, the town is protected by a high rocky shore and house walls built on cliffs, while the mainland side is protected by solid walls. The town is dominated by the baroque St. Euphemia’s Church, its 60-meter tower providing a view of grey and red rooftops and chimneys, streets and squares, the port and pier with ships and boats, and the marina harboring yachts.

Rovinj in 4 seasons

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Rovinj (Rovigno in Italian) is coastal Istria’s star attraction. While it can get overrun with tourists in summer and there aren't a lot of actual sights, it remains an intensely charming place. The old town is contained within an egg-shaped peninsula, webbed with steep cobbled streets and small squares, and punctuated by a tall church tower rising from the highest point. Originally an island, it was only connected to the mainland in 1763 when the narrow channel separating it was filled.

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Apr 25, 2019 • 6 min read

Small is beautiful. Nowhere is that truer than in Istria, the compact, heart-shaped peninsula at the northern end of Croatia's coast, surrounded by the…

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Croatia › Istria › Rovinj

Situated on the west coast of Istria , Rovinj is one of the most popular and most developed tourist resorts in Croatia . The old town is built on the island, which was only connected with the mainland in the 18 th century. Known as one of the most picturesque and romantic towns on Mediterranean, over the last few decades Rovinj attracts a large number of tourists, most of them faithfully returning year after year. Why do they come back? Maybe it is the breath of past times felt as you walk around old town's cobbled narrow streets. Or is it maybe its 22 islands and islets, the mild Mediterranean climate , carefully designed parks, the tidiness of its streets, the friendliness of the local population or numerous and varied town events. Or all of it!

Rovinj manages to combine, in a very interesting way, its rich tradition with the modern times. As it is also an active fishing port, you can experience the atmosphere of a small fishing village, especially during the popular fishermen’s festivities or at one of the traditional taverns called Spacio (in the past, very popular among fishermen). On the other hand, the town has been developing an exquisite gastronomy and offers a high standard of tourist services in general.

The city at the foot of the Church of St. Euphemia is the favorite gathering place of artists from around the world. Walking down its streets, you'll bump into many art galleries and studios, whilst once a year, in August, you have the possibility to attend the largest open-air exhibition of the Adriatic coast, which takes place in one of the main old-town streets - Grisia.

It is almost impossible to list all Rovinj's attractions, so we suggest visiting it and surrendering to its beauty… We are sure that it will win you over and that sooner or later, you’ll come to visit Rovinj again.

General information

Sights, landmarks & attractions.

The Old Town

The Old Town of Rovinj rises up on a peninsula and is a witness to times gone by and valuable accomplishments of its past artisans. The limited space led to the construction of narrow buildings, streets and small town squares. Of particular interest in this town centre are the characteristically designed chimneys. The town itself was declared a cultural monument in 1963.

The church of Saint Euphemia

The church is a most imposing structure which bears the name of the patron saint of the town. It dominates the whole Rovinj historic town centre. It was built in the 18th century, while its facade in Venetian-baroque style was added in the middle of the last century. At the top of the sixty metre high bell tower stands the copper statue of St.Euphemia, which shows the direction of the wind by turning on a spindle.

The baptismal font of the Holy Spirit

The baptismal font of the Holy Spirit has been constructed in a heptagonal shape and is the oldest relic situated in the Rovinj's Lokva Square. The 13th century Romanesque church which houses the font is also interesting because of the detailed carvings of the transenna depicting scenes of Golgotha.

The Franciscan Monastery

The Franciscan Monastery and the church were built at the beginning of the 18th century. This interesting building built entirely in the Baroque style, contains a rich library and a fascinating museum of sacral artifacts. It is situated in De Amicis street.

The castle on the island of Sveti Andrija (St. Andrew)

The castle was originally a Benedictine Monastery established in the 6th century AD. In the 15th century the Franciscan order added extensions and it was again refurbished at the end of the 19th century by Baron Hütterodt. The castle has now been converted into a hotel.

Rovinj town walls and gates

The first walls were built in 7th century which were enforced later on and towers were built. The town walls of Rovinj have been partly preserved on their north and south sides. Previously there were seven entry gates to the town. The original shape has been preserved with the Gate of St Benedict, now Gate on the Quay, the Gate of St Cross with the town coat of arms, and the Gate Under the Wall, with inscription from 1954.

The County Museum of the Town of Rovinj was founded in 1954. It holds valuable examples of art and it also houses the scientific library with more than 30.000 books. Throughout the year various exhibitions are being organised in the Museum.

Rovinj Aquarium

The Aquarium is a part of the Sea Research Centre of the Institute "Ruder Boškovic". The aquarium has been operating more than 100 years and it is one of the oldest in the world.

The Balbi Arch

The Balbi arch on Tito's Square was built in the place of the previous town gate. It was faced with stone in 1678.

Rovinj Accommodation

45 Top things to do in Rovinj, Croatia

Visiting Rovinj, Croatia? Plan activities and day trips with this guide on the best things to do in Rovinj, Croatia!

Rovinj is among the most visited places in Croatia and an excellent destination for couples, foodies, camping enthusiasts, and families. Exploring Rovinj’s old town, getting lost in the maze of its cobbled streets, having a glass of wine by the sea, and watching the world go by are just a few of the activities that bring joy to those who visit Rovinj.

Rovinj is a small, charming, laid-back, and artistic city. Yet, with top-notch luxury hotels in Croatia, Rovinj also attracts affluent guests without feeling posh or pretentious. Rovinj is a place you easily fall in love with, a place that simply feels right.

We live close to Rovinj and visit it daily. Below, we have compiled a list of must-do attractions, experiences, and activities in Rovinj to help you plan your own itinerary in Rovinj, Croatia!

Table of Contents

What To Do In Rovinj, Croatia: Ultimate Guide

Small, walkable town, Rovinj is easily visited on foot, and it will only take you a couple of hours to see all its attractions. However, Rovinj will charm you into repeatedly exploring its cobblestone streets, discovering lovely corners, and relaxing on many outdoor terraces.

Whether you travel alone, as a couple, or family with kids, and regardless of your budget – our list of what to do in Rovinj, Croatia is the place to plan your Rovinj activities!

1. Explore Rovinj Old Town

Exploring Rovinj Old Town is our favorite thing to do in Rovinj, Croatia. Rovinj Old Town is a compact area that can be easily explored on foot. It is comprised of numerous cobblestone streets, alleys, town squares, and charming corners, making it a delightful place to visit.

Most of your time in Rovinj will likely be spent in Rovinj Old Town. You can leisurely walk through the town, take photos, enjoy a cup of coffee, taste the local food, shop for unique souvenirs, or simply take a moment to watch the world go by.

Rovinj’s main landmarks include the lively green market, the city’s museums, small harbor, the main entrance to the town, Balbi’s Arch, and La Grisia streets.

2. Climb the bell tower At St. Euphemia Church For The Great Views

The Church of St. Euphemia is a remarkable landmark located on a hill in Rovinj Old Town. It is a must-visit for those exploring Rovinj Old Town.

The church’s towering baroque steeple dominates the town’s skyline, making it visible from almost every angle. It is named after the city’s patron saint, Saint Euphemia, and houses the saint’s preserved body in a Roman sarcophagus. Its interior is adorned with intricate baroque art.

Climbing the bell tower offers an unparalleled panoramic view of Rovinj and the surrounding Adriatic Sea.

The ascent to the church is gradual and not too difficult, and there are several routes to choose from. Santa Croce Street is the easiest and least steep but also the longest.

Once you reach St. Euphemia Church, be prepared to climb an additional 192 steps to reach the top of the bell tower. However, the stunning views that await you at the summit make the effort well worth it!

3. Visit Batana Museum

The Batana Museum is a small museum in Rovinj, Croatia that focuses on the traditional wooden fishing boat called batana, which local fishermen have used for centuries. The museum offers visitors a glimpse into Rovinj’s maritime and fishing history and its close ties to the sea.

The exhibition spreads across three gallery rooms. It includes photographs, slides, video presentations, and a guided tour in multiple languages. Batana Museum not only showcases the importance of batana for the people of Rovinj but also lays out the process of building a batana. The entrance for adults costs 3.32 €.

But the highlight of the visit is taking a ride in a traditional batana.

4. Take a ride in a traditional Batana Boat

The traditional Batana boat truly represents Rovinj’s long fishing tradition. Don’t miss a ride around Rovinj’s old town in this traditional boat. The cruise departs from Mali Mol at 8.00 pm, every Tuesday and Thursday during the summer. The price of the ride is around 13 € per person. A must-do!

5. Check ateliers and art galleries in Grisia

Rovinj’s most popular street, La Grisia, is hard to miss. The widest of all cobblestone streets leading up to the church of St. Euphemia, La Grisia is full of small art galleries, ateliers, and souvenir shops, as well as a couple of restaurants. And if you happen to be in Rovinj in August, you can enjoy the open-air exhibition that takes place annually in La Grisia Street.

6. Explore beaches In Rovinj

Make sure you don’t leave Rovinj without experiencing the beautiful beaches it has to offer. Rovinj boasts many wonderful rocky and pebbly beaches along its almost 70 km long coastline. Exploring Rovinj beaches is among the most popular activities in Rovinj, Croatia!

The best beaches in Rovinj include Punta Corrente Beaches, Lone Beach, Cisterna Beach, Borik Beach, and the beaches of St. Andrew and St. Catherine’s Islands.

7. Spend a day at the Golden Cape forest park, Rovinj

Golden Cape Forest Park, also known as Punta Corrente, is a beautiful nature park situated just a 20-minute walk away from the old town of Rovinj. This area is ideal for various outdoor activities including hiking, cycling, rock climbing, and swimming. The park features several well-maintained paths for both walkers and cyclists, and you can find many coves within the area, perfect for swimming.

The beaches in the park are mainly pebbly and rocky. The further you go into the Golden Cape Forest Park, the more serene and less crowded it becomes. There are also a few cafes along the way where you can relax and enjoy a glass of wine, beer, or coffee.

8. Go Rock climbing In Rovinj

Rock climbing enthusiasts would be happy to know that Rovinj has some excellent rock climbing spots.

The popular rock climbing site in Rovinj is located in Punta Corrente Park. Its location next to the sea makes it extra attractive. This rock climbing site in Rovinj features well-equipped routes of varying difficulty levels. All climbing routes are bolt-fixed on sharp, hard limestone rocks.

A local agency called Adistra offers guided climbing tours for beginners and equipment rental for experienced climbers.

9. Visit energy fields on Rovinj’s St. Andrew Island (Red Island)

St. Andrew Island, also known as Red Island, is a popular swimming spot in Rovinj that both locals and tourists enjoy. The island comprises two parts, St. Andrew and Maskin, which are connected by the beach.

However, few visitors are aware that the island has six energy fields, each associated with love, creativity, energy, life and death, wisdom, and freedom. These fields are an excellent source of peace, harmony, rejuvenation, and positive energy. If you feel that you could benefit from any of these qualities, you should hop on a boat from Rovinj to St. Andrew Island and experience these energy centers for yourself.

The boat departs from Rovinj every hour between 5:30 AM and 12:30 AM. The ride takes 20 minutes. A return ticket costs 12 € for adults and 6 € for children.

10. Visit St. Catherine’s Island

A small island off the shores of Rovinj, St. Catherine Island has beautiful gardens and parks featuring over 450 different plants. Beaches here are rocky, and drinks are expensive. However, the views over the old town are lovely, and the boat ride (the same boat that also serves Red Island) is affordable and lovely.

11. Bike to the campsite Vestar

Take an easy and flat cycling path along the sea from Rovinj through the Punta Corrente Park, Villas Rubin, and Polari Resort all the way to the camping Vestar. The campsite Vestar is an excellent place, not too big, with a busy harbor for small boats. There is a small beach bar at the dock, and it is a fantastic place to chill out between the biking!

12. Cycle the Limes Trail

If you are a more experienced cyclist and ready to make a 40 km round through Rovinj’s nature, go take on the Limes Trail. It starts and ends at the Amarin Resort. You’ll pass by interesting natural and cultural sites, including ruins of the small historic churches, the Maklavun archaeological site, Rupnjak Pond, and Haber’s Horseriding Center. Also, halfway through, plan a stop at the St. Martin viewpoint!

There are a few rent-a-bike places, like Rental Center or Rovinj Bike Rentals in Rovinj, with prices going from 20 € for a daily bike rental.

13. Watch the sunsets

You can’t visit one of the most romantic places in all Croatia and then not enjoy at least a sunset or two. Get to the Puntulina, Mediterraneo, or the XL bar for a sundowner, or set yourself for a picnic in the Lone Bay while watching the sun goes down in Rovinj.

14. Take a dolphin boat tour

This is one of the most popular and the cheapest boat tours in Rovinj. And with so many dolphins in Rovinj’s waters, seeing them is 100% guaranteed. Besides, you get to see Rovinj from the sea, a spectacle in its own right.

15. Hear Rovinj’s traditional Bitinada singing

Bitinada singing is so unique, and so enjoyable that it is a kind of polyphonic folk music from Rovinj traditionally performed by fishermen and farmers. A good way to hear this singing, to experience local food and a way of life is to book dinner at Spacio , a typical Rovinj tavern, where the local singers bring entertainment during and after dinner.

16. Come to Grand Park Hotel Rovinj for drinks, stay for views

Are you looking for the best spot where to photograph Rovinj? Then, you have to visit the newly built Grand Park Hotel Rovinj! The fifth-floor reception and the bar offer jaw-dropping views of the old town. The lobby bar is accessible to all, even if you aren’t staying here. Drinks are expensive, but the views are really stunning and worth the money.

17. Experience sea kayaking

Whether you prefer a self-guided or organized kayak tour, Adistra is the place to go. They rent kayaks but also have a 5-hour-long group sea kayaking tour. The tour takes you around St. Andrew, Maskin, Sturag, and Sv. Ivan Islands, as well as around Sv. Ivan na Pucini Lighthouse. This tour departs at 9.30 am, and it lasts 5 hours with two stops on the islands for a picnic and swimming.

The price is 38€ per person.

18. Paddle into sunset

Bring a date for this gentle paddling tour at sunset in the waters around Rovinj. Take in the sights, enjoy the sounds of the birds and the waves lapping on your kayak, and if that’s not already enough to convince you, it includes wine, cheese, and olives, too! The price is 26 € per person.

19. Go shipwreck diving

The most popular scuba diving site out of Rovinj is the shipwreck Baron Gautsch, one of the best-preserved and most-visited shipwrecks in all of Croatia. Sunk in 1914, this passenger steamer was 85 m long and 12 m wide. Today, the wreck lies at depths of 28-40 m, 12,5 nm off the coast of Rovinj. Many local diving centers offer organized dives to the Baron Gautsch site.

20. Go fishing

Pick one of the Mora Fishing & Pleasure various fishing trips, like big game, bottom, and night fishing, and enjoy a day at sea! Big game fishing takes you 30 nautical miles from Rovinj for ten hours of fishing tuna, bonito, and sometimes swordfish. Bottom and night fishing trips take 12 NM from Rovinj for 4 hours of fishing for mackerel, sardines, and alike.

21. Go horseback riding

You’ll find all this at the Haber Farm : horseback riding, therapeutic riding, horse breeding farm, and Rovinj’s Equestrian Club. They offer 45- and 90-minute rides.

22. Hop on a boat tour to Lim Fjord

A boat excursion to Lim Fjord (that isn’t really a fjord, but we all call it that name) is Rovinj’s most popular boat tour. Just walk along the harbor in Rovinj, and you’ll be enticed to book this tour with one of many operators. It’s actually not a bad tour. You sail along Rovinj’s north shores to Lim Bay, where you stop for a swim and lunch.

23. Shop At Rovinj’s Green Market

Another great experience while visiting Rovinj is shopping at the Green Market. Located in the old town, this market offers a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and locally sourced products. It’s an excellent opportunity to taste some of the traditional flavors and support local businesses.

Moreover, the Green Market is not just about food. You can also find handmade souvenirs. The market is open every day from 7 AM to 1 PM, except on Sundays when it closes at noon.

24. Watch the world go by in the Spacio Grota

A typical wine bar located right at the farmer’s market, the Spacio Grota is a place to have a glass of house wine, a few snacks, and watch the world go by. There is always something going on in the green market!

25. Have a gelato in the Gelateria Italia

This small ice cream parlor, run by an Italian family from Brescia, has the best ice cream in Rovinj. But for us, also, the best gelato in all of Istria . Their gelato is freshly made, natural, yummy; it comes in a variety of flavors and is crafted right there on spot, often in front of your eyes. Don’t miss grabbing a scoop of a favorite Rovinj treat!

26. Dine with style at Monte

Foodies’ will like to know that the first-ever Michelin-starred restaurant in Croatia is in Rovinj. Monte serves exquisite and yummy, creatively presented dishes, and an impressive wine list highlighting the best Croatian wines. Add to that a romantic atmosphere, and friendly and attentive service, and you’ll understand why the dining experience in the restaurant Monte is a must-do in Rovinj for all foodies.

27. Taste fisherman’s pie at the Maestral

If you are into seafood, you can’t leave Rovinj without tasting the fisherman’s pie at Meastral , an open-air restaurant at Rovinj’s waterfront. It’s Rovinj’s version of Komiza pie , a kind of flatbread filled with tomatoes, onions, salty anchovies, and drizzled with olive oil.

28. Eat at the smallest terrace in Rovinj

The Male Madlene is the quirkiest restaurant in town! This is really a one-woman show. The owner, in her 60s, is your host, cook, waiter, and storyteller (if you want). You sit in what seems like her own house (where she actually lives!), either in a small dining room or at the smallest waterfront terrace in Rovinj (four small tables only!). The food is yummy! And trust us, if you are a serious foodie, the experience is something you will remember!

29. Have a drink at the Mediterraneo

Mediterraneo is the quirky little bar just at the water’s edge with lovely seating, some literally perched on the rocks. The place is colorful, has a chilled vibe, friendly staff, and reasonable prices. Just come for a sundowner and enjoy the views and the music!

30. Eat where locals eat

A simple, no-frills tavern, Konoba Jure has a crappy location and uninspiring interiors, but it has fresh, tasty food, affordable prices, and friendly staff. This is the place to go if you want to eat good, honest comfort food. Locals love it!

31. Have a drink in the Mulini Beach Bar

The trendiest beach bar in town, Monte Mulini, is the place to be! The DJ plays day and night, the staff is friendly, the atmosphere is excellent, and the drinks are expensive.

32. Have a glass of wine at Dobravac

Dobravac is one of the few winemakers from Rovinj. At his family home, a 10-minute walk from the old town, they run a little B&B and a wine bar. Just grab a seat on the garden terrace and enjoy Dobravac wines . They also sell there fruits and veggies that they grow.

33. Have a breakfast at the Adriatic Hotel

The Hotel Adriatic is located at the most prominent spot in the old town, and it has a lovely outdoor terrace that gives out to the town’s main square. It’s also great for people-watching. Coffee is reasonably priced, but all other drinks and food are super expensive!

34. Sleep in the Palazzo

This 100-year-old palace was thoughtfully restored, and today, it houses Rovinj’s most stylish boutique hotel. If you want to stay in an exceptional place, book one of the seven rooms of the Spirito Santo Heritage Storico .

35. Explore Rovinj’s remote beaches

Rovinj’s south coastline hides lovely coves, bays, and rocky and pebbly beaches. The entire coast, from the camping Vestar to the camping Monperin, is intact, little visited, and very private even in the peak season. The best way to explore it is to rent a boat (you can rent it in any of the two campsites). Otherwise, go to Palud, and from there, with some help from Google Maps, hike to the nearest beach.

36. Shop For Souvenirs in Rovinj

A new shopping address in Rovinj, located on the ground floor of the hotel Park, the Lungomare Plaza is the place to shop for the best independent eyewear brands, Vilebrequin’s clothing, fine jewelry and watches, designers’ items from the household items, and electronics, to perfumes and books.

37. Visit Monkodonjo ruins

Visit the archaeological site of Monkodonjo. The site dates back to the Bronze Age. It is situated 5 km east of Rovinj. 1 km long stone walls encircled the settlement.

It consisted of three parts: the central barrow, the crafts district, and the living quarters. Over a thousand people lived here. Today, you can visit the ruins of this once-important settlement.

38. Visit Dvigrad

A nicely preserved abandoned medieval town, Dvigrad is just a short drive from Rovinj. Easy parking, free admission, and few people around make Dvigrad a nice trip from Rovinj. The restoration works are ongoing, but you can walk the old cobblestone streets and check many former homes, the church, water tank. The view over the valley is also very nice.

39. Go bird watching in Palud

Palud, a swampy area 10 km from Rovinj, is the only ornithological site in Istria. It’s an excellent place for those who enjoy bird watching. Due to its geomorphology, this site is home to many migratory and resident birds, turtles, eels, mullets, etc. Over the year, more than 200 bird species visit this area.

Palud is open year-round, and it’s free of charge unless you would like to be accompanied by a professional guide. A professional guide is available on request.

40. Visit Stancija Collis

A lovely boutique winery, Stancija Collis is set amidst the vineyards and just 6 km from Rovinj. Get a cab or bike and come here for wine tasting, beautiful views, and a relaxed atmosphere.

41. Taste Croatia’s best olive oil

Yes, you read that right! The Chiavalon Olive Oil is the best Croatian olive oil and one of the best olive oils in the world. Don’t just take our word for it. The World’s Best Olive Oil Association named them one of the top 25 producers in the World, and Premio il Magnifico placed them among the 12 producers in Europe.

Their newly built tasting room is on the road between Bale and Vodnjan , 25 km away from Rovinj. You will meet the producers, taste their olive oil, and you will learn so much that you’ll never again look at the olive oil with the same eyes. They also produce other natural farm products, like tomato sauce, jams, or organically grown melons.

42. Go wine tasting in San Tommaso Winery

We are not yet through all the incredible wineries in Rovinj. San Tommaso is a boutique winery with a small shop and a wine bar in Rovinj. Besides their bottled wines in their shop, you can also buy their house wine for cheap, like 3 € per liter. But, the highlight of San Tommaso’s wine tasting is a visit to their winery in the small village of Golas, 15 km from Rovinj. The winemaker also offers fantastic accommodation on his wine estate.

43. Spend A Day At Brijuni National Park

One of the eight national parks in Croatia , Brijuni is a beautiful archipelago consisting of  14 islands and islets. The boat for Brijuni departs from Fazana, 30 30-minute drive from Rovinj. Visiting the Brijuni islands makes a great day out! Take your swimming suit because there are many nice swimming spots in Brijuni.

44. Visit Pula

Are you a history buff? The Roman amphitheater, Temple of Augustus, Forum, Arch of Sergii, mosaic floors, little Roman theater, and many more Roman relics are the number one reason to visit Pula , the largest town in Istria.

45. Go On A Day Trip From Rovinj

Visit venice by boat.

The only town that is more romantic than Rovinj – Venice is less than 3 3-hour boat ride from Rovinj. Don’t miss visiting one of the most beautiful towns in the world while you are vacationing in Rovinj! Two companies operate this route, Venezialines and Kompas. You can also book it online in advance!

Go see Ljubljana

A bare 150 km away from Rovinj, Ljubljana is actually a great place to visit for a day from Rovinj. The Slovenian capital city is small and easily walkable, with an array of hip cafes along the river banks and lovely bridges crisscrossing the two sides of the river. Plus, it is youthful with a laid-back vibe and great restaurants.

Ride an underground train in the Postojna cave

If you are into the underground world, the caves, and caverns, head to Postojna Cave in Slovenia, the largest and the most famous cave in this area. For the most part, you’ll visit this fantastic system of halls, passages, and tunnels by an electric train. A unique experience in its own right! You can do a self-driving tour to Postojna or book this small group tour.

A day trip to Plitvice Lakes

Plitvice Lakes is a must-visit site in Croatia. However, it is a bit of a stretch to visit it in a day from Rovinj. But, if you don’t have time to stay there overnight, check many tour companies that offer a day trip from Rovinj to Plitvice. Get good hiking shoes, plenty of water, and a camera!

Have you been to Rovinj? What’s your favorite thing to do there?

Further reading:

• A Complete Travel Guide To Rovinj
• Where To Stay in Rovinj: Best Accommodation
• Best Hotels in Rovinj
• Top Rovinj Restaurants
• Events In Rovinj
• Rovinj bars and clubs

Frankaboutcroatia.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. This post might also contain affiliate links to other sites, like accommodation or activities. And if you purchase anything using these links, we earn a little commission with no extra costs for you. Thank you for supporting our blog! Read full disclaimer here.

Home / Destinations In Croatia / About Rovinj / 45 Top things to do in Rovinj, Croatia

36 thoughts on “45 Top things to do in Rovinj, Croatia”

My husband and I are so excited to be leaving Alberta, Canada in a week for a two week trip through Croatia. It has been on my bucket list for several years and I have read many of your blog entries in preparation. Thanks for all of the great information! We fly into Dubrovnik and plan to visit Split, Zadar, Plitvice Lakes, Several Istrian towns as well as Lake Bled and Ljubljana.

Yes, sure, no worries

Early September is a great time to visit. Perhaps the best of all. And normally it’s not rainy

Rovinj is definitely a winner! Porec is also kids-friendly.

Hi Sarah, if you are just looking for a bit of a nightlife in Istria, then we suggest you to check accommodation options in Porec. I think that Porec is the best place in Istria for a nightlife (but don’t expect crazy nightlife, just a bit of it). Hope this helps.

Love your site! we have been to Southern Croatia a couple of times and are now considering Istria. We have two teenagers (17 & 15) who like a bit of nightlife. Is Istria a good option for us or would you recommend somewhere else? Thanks

Hi Chandu, check Atlas Travel Their online presence isn’t very strong, but most of the hotels and small local agencies sell Kompas excursions. Hope this helps.

Hi Frank Can you please suggest any local tour operators that go to Lake Bled, Plitvice lake Thanks

We’re planning our trip to Croatia Aug 29-Sept 6. Rovinj sounds wonderful. Will there still be plenty of attractions open then?

Hi Frank Great website you have! I am going away with my wife and 18month son in July. I’ve been to Dubrovnik, Split,Hvar and Vis – loved all of them. I was thinking of going north to Rovinj as looks quite toddler friendly? i.e we won’t be moving from one spot too much. They have nice beaches, the town looks lovely, plus aquarium etc.

Do you think I’m on to a winner there or would you recommend somewhere different in Istria? Cheers Duncan

Hello there. great blog indeed. I am planning to visit Rovinj but am not sure if to visit in June or September? would it be still good weather early september for a one week stay and enjoy the beach and some sightseeing in the nearby towns??? I know there is no nightlife in Rovinj so relax vacation it would be I guess in such towns. Please let me know your feedback if september is non-rainy month for rovinj…. I will be visiting Italy so why not pass by croatia since it’s not that far from Venice passing by Trieste I suppose. Thank you … and any idea about hotel/apartment/room rentals in old town of rovinj (we are on budget).

Hi Pamela, it’s a bit dead. But it can be a great base to explore the rest of Istria. If you have a car, all wineries, olove oil estates, and top restaurants are still open. You can alos visit Trieste for a day.

Hi Frank! We’re deciding between Rovinj and Trieste during end November, and are worried Rovinj would be a dead town during winter. Would really appreciate your input! Thanks in advance :)

Hi Lexie, thanks for stopping by. Istrian olive oil is of an excellemt quality, and olive oil tasting is a must-do when in Istria. Any plans to visit here soon?

Hi Kate, thanks for stopping by, and sorry for my late reply. It’s very easy to rent a bicycle in Istria, especially within tourists resorts. Have fun in Pula!

Cannot wait to get to Croatia, especially Istria! Olive oil tasting is calling to me!

Hi,Frank! Thanks for an amazing blog! We are going to David Gilmour concert in arena Pula in September and then going to explore some towns nearby. Especially we are interested in cycling. Could you tell us if it is easy to rent a bycicle?

Wow, great blog! I am arriving in Rovinj on 17th August for 3 nights for a suprise holiday for my husband. We are staying at the Hotel Lone, and I was hoping to visit a vineyard and other local food productions such as olive oil and truffles? I understood they were popular here- any suggestions?

Hi Jerry, thanks for your comment. We’ve got a nice, brand new apartment to rent in Porec, or rather in a small village Rosini near Porec. Here is the link: https://www.frankaboutcroatia.com/franks-place/ Let us know if that fits you. If not, let us know what kind of place you are looking for.

Hi Frank. We’ll be renting a car and will have 5-nights of stays that are currently unbooked in mid-October 2015. Our plan is to drive the coast from Kotor, stop where we want and end up in Istria. Once in the Istrian area, what are your recommendations as to stays so we can visit all the little villages you’ve suggested? Should we look for an apartment/hotel in the area once it starts getting late or book a centrally located stay for ~4-nights and travel the Istrian area from there on day trip? Your insight would be very much appreciated.

thanks for the informative blog! I know you wrote it a while ago but we are planning our vacation with 2 dogs and we were wondering if you have any tips for fun things to do with a dog in Rovinj. We love the city and cannot wait to see it! I was also wondering if the boat trips to the nearest islands are possible with dogs. Thank you again and have a lovely day!

Hi Michelle, thanks for stopping by. I would say that Rovinj is really one of the better places to base yourself in Istria. However, it’s is more expensive than other coastal towns in Istria. So if the budget is an issue, you might be better staying in Porec.

Hi Frank! Love your blog. Very informative. Is Rovinj the best place to base yourself if you want to explore more of Istria? Do you have other recommendations? Thanks!

Hi Susan, It depends how long you’ll be staying in Rovinj. There are plenty things to do in the region, and to be honest Plitvice Lakes, although gorgeous, are quite busy in August. But if you don’t mind crowds, they’re sure worth a visit. Thanks for stopping by.

Hi Susan, plenty places for running in and around Rovinj. You have the Zlatni Rt forest within a walking distance from the town. Then you can also do it on any cycling trail. You can leave your car near Valalta and follow Basilica cycling trail. Or Limes cycling trail. Very nice trail is also from the village of Kloštar along Lim Fjord to Vrsar. Have fun in Rovinj and let us know if we can help with anything else.

Love your blog. Great info. Out of interest, how safe are the cycle trails for running? I’m in the middle of half marathon training so need to fit in some running whilst we’re staying in Rovinj.

Many thanks,

This blog is great! We’ll be in Rovinj next week. A few friends say we have to take a trip to Plitvice Lakes. Do you think it’s worth a day trip? Thank you!

Hi Damian, 2 weeks might seem like a long time, but if you are looking for some relaxing time too, you should be fine. One week you can chill out by the beach, and another week do some sightseeing in the area. Check new beach in Lone Bay. As for sport activities, there is an interesting zip line and high ropes park Glavani, near Barban. Also in Porec, you have a ski lift (basically you ski on the water but you are pulled by cable and not by boat). Then there is all the rest: tennis, kayaking, diving, etc… Let us know if we can help with anything else.

Great website. My wife and i arrive in Rovinj on Sat but are unsure about whether to spend 1 or 2 weeks there. we will be wanting to mainly sunbathe (rock/beach/pool are all fine) with some cultural and sporty things thrown in. Is 2 weeks to long? Also how reliable is the weather this far north? i have spent lots of time south of split and adore it so I am sure we will love it. What is the evening temp like?

Hi Kirsten, Istrian inland is a must-visit. Hilltop towns like Groznjan, Motovun, Oprtalj, and abandoned village of Zavrsje are interesting to see. Visit to Chiavalon olive oil tasting room is a great place where you can learn about olive oil produvtion, how to taste and use olive oil properly. Chiavalon is one of the best Istrian olive oils. Basic tasting is only 50 kn per person. Wineries and wine tours are also very popular in Istria. Close to Rovinj you have San Tomasso winery (in a village Golas). We’ve just been there 2 weeks ago, and had a great time. Coastal towns of Novigrad, Porec and Vrsar are worth a visit. Have a drink in Novigrad at Vitriol bar (great choice of Istrian wine by glass, and international beers). Just few ideas. Let us know if you need more info.

Loving the local area guide and info on Rovinj! My boyfriend and I have just booked our flights to come along in July and we are so excited! We are hoping to hire a car and I wondered if you could reccomend any day trips we could do to explore a bit further afield? Any help you could offer would be amazing.

Thanks Kirsten

Thank you so much for your reply! It was so helpful! In the past few days, I’ve been visiting your site everyday, always finding new places we want to see and taking notes of restaurant we want to try. Like I said in my previous message, this is exactly the site we needed! We will certainly give you a shout out when we are there, we’d love to meet fellow Canadians!

Bonjour Marie-Michèle, thanks for stopping by. Bus transport in Istria is limited. While the coastal towns can teorethically be visited by bus, to visit the inland villages is impossible without the car. Since you are coming in December, I would definitely plan to visit the inland. The life is slow here in December (but still way better than in January when everybody goes skiing and most of the commerces close down). Anyway, if you are curious about local food and wine, you can plan to visit local olive oil producers (check Chiavalon in Vodnjan), great local taverns (we’ve reviewed the best ones on our website), and wineries (Kozlovic, Kabola, Trapan, Benvenutti are among the best). Combine this with lots of historical sites and you are set for great holidays. But do rent the car for the optimal experience. Give us a shout if you would like to meet up for a drink or something.

I’ve just discovered you blog and its exactly what I needed. We are planing on visiting Rovinj region in early december 2014. I know its a strange time to visit but I have a Conference in Venice at the end of November and thought, why not go to Croatia. We are from Canada, so the weather is not scaring us! We have reserved an apartment in Rovinj old town and we wanted to visit a outside the city (Pula, medieval towns, etc.). This brings me to my question: should we rent a car for the time we are there or will it be possible to travel by bus from one place to the other without to much trouble? Thank again for you great blog!

Visit to the Red Island sound amazing!

Thanks for your comment! A boat tour around Rovinj is an excellent addition to this list.

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Rovinj - a complete travel guide on visiting Rovinj

Nestled along the Adriatic Sea Rovinj, with its maze of cobblestone streets and radiant buildings, stands as one of Croatia's most enchanting coastal towns offering a captivating blend of ancient charm and modern vibrancy.

The historic old town of Rovinj rises on a hilly peninsula, crowned by the iconic St. Euphemia Church, a testament of Rovinj's rich heritage. Take a stroll along the bustling harbour and settle at some of the seafront eateries serving up the region's culinary delights. Don't forget to also try some of the renowned ice cream.

Whether you're drawn by its architectural beauty, delectable cuisine, or the allure of its art galleries and town squares, Rovinj promises a unique blend of tradition and contemporary culture.

Dive into our comprehensive guide and discover why Rovinj, pedestrian-friendly and brimming with attractions, should be your next Croatian escapade.

Where to stay

From amazing villas to luxurious hotels with fantastic panoramic Adriatic views to budget hotels and apartments and serene campsites , Rovinj caters to every budget and preference.

Sure, you might find it a tad pricier than some other spots along the Istrian coast, but that's because Rovinj is the place everyone's raving about. So, whether you're splurging on luxury, hunting for a bargain, or somewhere in between, Rovinj's got the perfect spot for your Adriatic getaway.

Luxury villas in Rovinj

Hotels and apartments in rovinj, best budget hotels and apartments in rovinj, best campsites in rovinj.

Travelling to Rovinj

Rovinj sits cosily on Istria's west coast, roughly 30 km from both Poreč up north and Pula down south. It's the perfect starting point to check out Istria's other gems. And here's a fun fact: Venice is just a stone's throw away at 260 km. You can make the Venice to Rovinj trip in less than 3 hours.

Coming from Zagreb ? It's about the same distance. Handy, isn't it?

Now, if Split is on your radar from Rovinj, give it more than a day. It's a 500 km stretch, and by car, you're looking at a 5-hour journey. But don't sweat it; the drive's a breeze on the modern multi-lane highway .

Flying to Rovinj

The closest airport to Rovinj is Pula Airport, located 50 kilometers to the south. It serves as the primary gateway for travellers coming to explore the Istrian region .

During the period from May to October, Pula Airport becomes a focal point for several low-cost airlines, facilitating connections to and from a selection of European cities such as Berlin, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Brussels, Oslo, Stockholm, Helsinki, Rome, London and more.

For alternative airport choices you can consider Krk, Trieste, Treviso, Venice, Ljubljana, and Zagreb , all within a range of up to a 3-hour drive from Rovinj.

Upon arrival at Pula Airport there are several transportation options available to convey you to Rovinj. These include car rentals, private transfers, and public transportation. Established car rental companies operate conveniently from the airport premises.

Opting for a private transfer entails an approximate cost of 80€ for a one-way journey. On the other hand, while public transport is often the most cost-effective choice, it might not always align with convenience. Check out prices and availability for private transfers to Rovinj from Pula, Rijeka, Venice and more.

Embarking on the public transport route, a single ticket for the bus incurs an expense of 18 Euro. Alternatively, by purchasing your ticket through the Brioni-Fils website in advance, the price drops slightly to 15 Euro. Those mindful of their budget can seamlessly access Rovinj from the airport by utilising the shuttle to travel to Pula's central bus station. From there, a bus journey to Rovinj can be undertaken.

The shuttle service from Pula Airport to Pula bus station demands a fare of 6 Euro, while the subsequent bus ride from Pula to Rovinj involves a ticket price ranging from 7 Euro. The carriers Fils Ltd. and Broini Ltd. in cooperation provide departures to: Pula - Verudela, Medulin, Puntižela, Fažana, Rovinj, Poreč, Novigrad, Umag and Rabac.

Ferries to Rovinj

Flights to rovinj, rovinj by bus, rovinj by train, by car coming soon..., why should you visit rovinj.

Rovinj is undeniably one of Croatia's crown jewels. A must-see for anyone stepping foot in the country, especially if it's their first time. While Dubrovnik might steal the limelight as Croatia's most visited town, Rovinj holds its own, especially among European travellers. Surprisingly, many from further afield overlook this gem. Let's dive into why Rovinj deserves a spot on every Croatian travel list!

Best day trips from Rovinj

Events in rovinj, restaurants in rovinj, bars & clubs in rovinj, attractions and things to do in rovinj, shopping in rovinj, best beaches in rovinj, romantic and magical.

Some places just have that magic, and Rovinj is undoubtedly one of them. To truly grasp its essence, you've got to immerse yourself in it. The old town is a nostalgic dream, oozing romance at every turn. Trust us, your camera will be working overtime here.

A Blend of Old and New

While the old town whispers tales of the past, many Rovinj's hotels scream modernity and style.

Dining Delights

Rovinj's culinary scene is a treat for the senses.

Beach Bliss

Alright, let's set the record straight: if you're hunting for endless sandy shores, Croatia might not be your first pick. But Rovinj? It offers a unique coastal charm and Rovinj's beaches are a sun-seeker's paradise.

When is the best time to visit Rovinj?

Rovinj isn't just for summer fun. Trust us, there's something special about this place every season. Picture this: basking on sunny beaches, wandering the historic streets in spring, diving into the sea in summer, marvelling at the golden autumn vibes, and then warming up in a cosy local café when winter hits. Seriously, Rovinj's magic never stops. You can experience it all year round!

Oh, it's a gem! If you're looking for that perfect blend of luxury and nature, you can't miss the Monte Mulini area. Nestled right by the Golden Cape forest park, it's where you'll find some of the swankiest hotels, all boasting views of the gorgeous Mulini Beach and its chic marina.

Travelling with the fam? Rovinj's got you. From its kid-friendly beaches and playgrounds to a variety of stays (think posh hotels to homey private spots), there's something for everyone. And if you're the kind who loves waking up to the sound of chirping birds and the smell of pine, the campsites here are just dreamy.

But there's more to Rovinj than just its natural beauty. Come summer, and the place is buzzing! From the foot-tapping beats of the Croatian Summer Salsa Festival to the artsy vibes of the Grisia art show, there's always something happening. And if you're into music, the Batana Boat Parade is an experience you won't forget. Oh, and for those who keep an eye on the latest in the communication world, the Weekend Media Festival is a must-attend.

For the adventurers, Rovinj's surrounding islands are a paradise. Whether you're diving deep to explore shipwrecks or just skimming the surface on a windsurf, the Adriatic won't disappoint.

And before you leave, take a leisurely stroll through Rovinj's old town. It's like stepping into a painting. The cobbled streets, the historic St. Euphemia's church, the quaint galleries - it's a trip back in time. And if you're into history, the Batana House Eco Museum is a treasure trove, so much so that UNESCO thinks it's special too.

So, if you're planning a trip to Croatia thin summer, make sure Rovinj's on your list. Trust us; it's worth it!

Springtime in Rovinj? Oh, it's an adventurer's dream! Imagine cycling through the lush trails of the Golden Cape forest park or maybe trying your hand at free climbing. And for those who love their sports, Rovinj's got top-notch facilities - think football stadiums, tennis courts, and more. Whether you're an amateur looking for a kick about or a pro in training, Rovinj has got you covered.

Ever heard of the Štrika-Ferata route? It's this old railway track turned into a scenic bike path. Riding along, you'll be treated to some of nature's finest views. And speaking of views, a stroll through Rovinj's historic heart feels like you've stepped into a time capsule. The cobbled streets, the iconic St. Euphemia's church, and those quaint little galleries - it's like walking through a living museum. And if you're a history buff, the Monkodonja and Mušego archaeological sites are a must-visit.

Spring in Rovinj also means it's event season! From gourmet tours and food festivals to sports events like "Popolana", there's always something happening. And for the diving enthusiasts, the clear spring waters are perfect for exploring Rovinj's underwater treasures. The Baron Gautsch steamboat wreck? It's a sight to behold.

Fancy a day trip? There's a ton of places you can visit. Medieval towns, ancient amphitheatres, and even national parks - it's all just a short drive or boat ride away. And after a day of exploring, unwind at one of Rovinj's wellness centres. Trust us, their Mediterranean herb treatments are pure bliss.

Oh, and if you're here for work, Rovinj's top-tier accommodations and conference facilities make business meetings a breeze. But if it's love that's brought you here, you're in for a treat. Rovinj, with its romantic vibes, has been the backdrop for countless weddings. And with its picturesque settings, every photo feels like it's straight out of a fairy tale.

So, whether you're here to explore, relax, or celebrate love, Rovinj in spring is where memories are made. Come and see for yourself!

Rovinj in autumn

Ah, Rovinj in the fall? It's like stepping into a vibrant painting! Those cool breezes are perfect for outdoor adventures. Picture yourself cycling, trekking, or even scaling some rocks. And for such escapades, the Zlatni rt forest park, a hop away from the city buzz, is your go-to spot. Here's a little secret: don't miss out on the free bike tour by the Tourist Board. It's their way of letting you 'Feel the breeze of Rovinj', and trust us, it's exhilarating!

For the sports enthusiasts, Rovinj rolls out the red carpet. Whether it's kicking a ball, shooting hoops, or acing in tennis, there's a venue just for you. And for the cyclists, the revamped Štrika-Ferata path, once an old railway line, promises vistas that'll make your heart skip a beat.

Gastronomes, brace yourselves! The autumn edition of 'On the paths of Rovinj delicacies' is a culinary journey you won't forget. Think delectable dishes at steal-deal prices all over town. And if you're someone who loves pedalling with a side of gourmet, the 'Weekend bike & gourmet tour' is right up your alley.

Got the explorer's itch? Rovinj's surroundings are a treasure trove. From age-old towns, historic amphitheatres, and basilicas that have caught UNESCO's eye, to enigmatic caves and pristine national parks, adventure is always around the corner.

Here for work? Rovinj's plush stays, equipped with top-tier conference amenities, ensure your business runs smoothly. And when the day winds down, rejuvenate at a local spa. Their therapies, steeped in Mediterranean goodness, are sheer bliss.

For those who resonate with the rhythm of the waves, autumn's mellow sun is perfect for sailing through Rovinj's islands. And as you meander through Rovinj's age-old lanes, it's like walking through a living museum. The architecture, the iconic St. Euphemia's church, and those artsy nooks are pure eye candy.

Before you bid adieu, make a pit stop at the Batana House Eco Museum. It's a nod to Rovinj's boat-crafting legacy and even has a UNESCO badge of honour. Rovinj in the fall is a mosaic of experiences waiting to be explored. Dive deep and soak it all in!

Rovinj in winter

Strolling through Rovinj's old town is like flipping through pages of a history book. Every corner, every hidden alley whispers tales of the past. The town's rich tapestry of culture and monuments will leave you in awe.

This year, while the Advent festivities might be a tad muted due to the pandemic, the spirit remains undiminished. Beneath the twinkling New Year's tree, the House of the Batana dishes out culinary wonders, while local artisans showcase their crafts. The town square hums with music, and if you're an opera buff, live screenings from the Metropolitan Opera and the Bolshoi Theater await at the cinema. And as the clock ticks down to the New Year, M. Tito square comes alive with melodies, mirrored by the gala feasts in Rovinj's hotels and eateries.

For the sporty souls, there's no dearth of action. From the festive "Rovinjski đir" race to the Istria Winter Cup football tourney and the Running League, adrenaline is always high. And if you're a foodie, "Antonja" is a must-visit. Held in Rovinjsko Selo, this gastronomic fiesta celebrates St. Antun with the finest wines, olive oils, and scrumptious Istrian soups.

Winter in Rovinj is mild, making the Golden Cape forest park a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're jogging, cycling, or rock-climbing, the park is your playground. And with top-notch sports facilities dotting the town, both amateur and pro athletes can keep their game strong.

Seeking some winter pampering? Rovinj's wellness centres, with their Mediterranean-inspired treatments, are pure bliss. And for those on business, the town's plush accommodations, complete with state-of-the-art conference facilities, ensure your meetings go off without a hitch.

But don't just stay put in Rovinj. Venture out and explore the Istrian peninsula. The region's charming towns and historic cities are a sight to behold, promising to lure you back, season after season. Dive into Rovinj's winter wonder and let its magic envelop you!

What is the weather like in Rovinj?

Rovinj, like its coastal siblings, boasts a Mediterranean climate - think sizzling summers and gentle winters. Here's a fun fact: with a whopping 134 sunlit days annually, Rovinj clinches the title as Istria's sunniest spot and ranks third in Croatia's sunshine league. Plus, if you're not a fan of overcast skies, you're in luck! Rovinj takes the crown for the fewest gloomy days along the Adriatic.

Now, while the stats point to October and November as the wettest months, recent years have painted a different picture. October's been surprisingly splendid, while May's been a tad more drizzly than we'd hoped.

Winter here is pretty mild, averaging around 6°C. And thanks to its snug micro-location, biting winds are a rarity. As for summer, it's all about sun-soaked days. Rain's a rare guest in July, the driest month.

Average temperatures for July and August hover around 23°C, with the sea invitingly warm at 25°C. But remember, these figures factor in both day and night. On particularly hot days, the mercury can soar to 30°C. Prefer something a tad cooler? June and September offer a comfy 25°C, though the sea's a bit nippier, between 20-22°C. Dive into Rovinj's climate and soak in its warmth!

Things to do in Rovinj

Nestled along the coast, Rovinj is a treasure trove of experiences. Whether you're yearning for beach moments, thrilling adventures, or a taste of the local culinary scene, Rovinj has got you covered. And its prime location? Perfect for jaunts across Istria and even quick getaways to neighbouring Slovenia and Italy. Trust us, a week or two here will fly by.

Here's a glimpse of what Rovinj has in store:

Find your adventure at Punta Corrente forest park

A mere 15-minute walk from the old town will lead you to the tranquil Punta Corrente Forest Park. Established in the 1890s, it's a haven for cyclists, joggers, and those looking for a refreshing swim. But for the thrill-seekers, the limestone cliffs offer an exhilarating rock climbing experience, just a hop away from the sea's embrace.

Sailing memories with batana

The batana is a traditional wooden fishing boat and a symbol of Rovinj's deep-rooted heritage. While its fishing days might be numbered, the charm isn't lost. Experience a serene sail around the old town at dusk, courtesy of the House of Batana, followed by a hearty meal in a local eatery.

Dive into the deep blue

Rovinj's surrounding waters are a treasure trove for divers, especially with shipwrecks like the Baron Gautsch. This steamer, which has been resting since 1914, is a dive into history, lying between 28-40 m deep.

Discover the historic heart of Rovinj

The old town, perched on a quaint peninsula, is a labyrinth of homes, some seemingly rising straight from the sea. As you wander, you'll find yourself at St. Eufemia's church, the town's crown jewel. From art to architecture and charming boutiques, every corner has a story to tell.

Horseback through nature's beauty

Whether you're a horse riding pro or a newbie, Rovinj's landscapes invite you to explore them on horseback. With equestrian centres ready to guide you, each ride unveils Istria's blend of natural splendours and historical landmarks. And the adventure doesn't stop there - from riding lessons to outdoor activities and a taste of Istria's culinary scene, it's a gallop through diverse experiences.

Kayaking: a different view of Rovinj

Imagine viewing Rovinj from the calm waters, paddling leisurely and letting the town's beauty unfold. As you kayak, the islands of Sv. Katarina, Sv. Andrija, Maškin, Sturag, and Sv. Ivan beckon, each with its own tale. It's not just about the journey; it's about the stories and experiences you'll gather along the way.

Best things to see in Rovinj

By the shimmering waters Rovinj, a canvas of art and age-old tales, calls out to your curious heart. The city's ancient core seemed to whisper stories, reflecting a past rich in memories. The local museums and galleries felt like treasure chests, each piece telling its own intimate story. The architectural masterpieces speak of times long forgotten, making your journey in Rovinj feel like a personal dance with history.

Curious about what Rovinj has in store? Every corner holds a surprise. The old town gates and the iconic Balbi’s Arch are like gateways to another era. A walk down Grisia Street leeds you to the grandeur of Rovinj’s city palace, its sacred churches, and the mythical castle on St. Andrew’s Island. For us Rovinj isn't just a town in Istria; it is a journey into art, culture customs and traditions.

Rovinj Cuisine and Best Restaurants

The heart of Rovinj's culinary scene beats with the rhythm of the sea. Historically, locals would venture out into the vast ocean in their batanas, bringing back a bounty of seafood. To keep the essence of Rovinj's traditional cooking alive, the Batana House Eco Museum introduced "The Traditional Rovinj Cuisine Cookbook."

Here are our recommendations on what to order if available: Istarski Boškarin (autochthonous Istrian cattle breed), famous extra virgin olive oil from Istria, Pljukanci (also known as makaruni, a traditional, handmade Istrian pasta), Fritaja sa šparogama ( a popular Istrian egg-based dish, key ingredients are wild Istrian asparagus), Fuži (a traditional Istrian pasta variety) and Istrian pršut or prosciutto. For beverages we recommend to try Teran (a red grape variety that has been cultivated for centuries in Istria), Istarska malvazija (a native Croatian white grape variety predominantly grown in Istria) and Biska (a traditional Istrian mistletoe-flavored brandy).

When it comes to dining out we have some personal recommendations. Waterside Blue restaurant is a must-visit, known for its home-made thin pizza-style bread with rosemary, sea salt and award-winning olive oil produced nearby. Maestral offers simplicity with its vast menu, bustling summer terrace, and picturesque views of the town. For those seeking a luxurious experience, Monte presents a curated tasting menu. And for a genuine, homely touch, Jure serves up robust, comforting meals. But that's just the tip of the iceberg.

Here is our comprehensive guide on where to dine in Rovinj!

Home » Travel Guides » Croatia » 15 Best Things to Do in Rovinj (Croatia)

15 Best Things to Do in Rovinj (Croatia)

Rovinj is a stunning little city in Croatia filling every inch of a peninsula bordered on three sides by the Adriatic Sea. The core of the old town is mostly Venetian and built with pale limestone that glows in the sun, containing exciting fragments from every stage of its turbulent history.

On a visit you can tour the maze of streets before a meal beneath a parasol at the picturesque working port. Beyond Rovinj you can seek out ancient ruins, visit unfrequented beaches and breathtaking natural spaces like the 10 kilometre-long Lim Fjord.

Let’s have a look at the best things to do in Rovinj :

1. Old Town

Rovinj was actually an island before a land reclamation project in 1763 by the Venetians.

What you’ll see in the old town is a medieval tangle of tight streets and alleys that pass under archways and twist up stairways worn by centuries of footfalls.

This historic centre is small, but it won’t be hard to get disoriented by this dense labyrinth of quaint cobblestone streets!

Eventually you’ll come to restaurants, cafes or even the water’s edge, and you can always find time for a cup of coffee to watch this ancient town go about its day.

2. St. Euphemia Cathedral

The square campanile of this baroque church dominate Rovinj’s skyline and closely resembles St. Mark’s in Venice.

So it’s no surprise that the 17th-century St. Euphemia was built by the Venetians, who were in control of Rovinj throughout this period.

To get the lie of the land you can make your way up the campanile, which is 61 metres-high and even offers views of the Alps to the north on a clear day.

The church’s interior meanwhile boasts some sumptuous design, including a marble altar with a 15th-century statue of the saint before a sarcophagus containing Euphemia’s relics.

3. Lim Fjord

You can reach this strange and beautiful natural wonder by road or by tour boat from Rovinj’s port.

It is described as both a fjord and a canal, but really it’s a 10 kilometre-long river canyon guarded by steep wooded mountainsides that soar to 100 metres.

What really makes this scene and gives it the appearance of a fjord is the width of the river, up to 600 metres in places.

On land you can hike or bike through the mix of deciduous and coniferous forest and stop by at the restaurant at the mouth of the canyon. Here they serve seafood such as oysters and mussels farmed in these waters.

4. Rovinj Port

The best views (and photos for instagram) of Rovinj can be had from the city’s port. From this perspective you can see those beautiful painted houses that crowd the waterfront, and the marvellous campanile of St. Euphemia behind them.

Turn seawards and you’ll witness a working port in action, with fishers setting out or coming home, or mending nets on the jetty.

All along the water’s edge are restaurants and cafes, and there’s surely no better place in the city to while away a couple of hours on a sunny day!

5. Punta Corrente

The boot-shaped peninsula a short way south of Rovinj is a relaxing natural park. Punta Corrente (Golden Cape) was the vision of the 19th-century Austrian industrialist Johann Georg von Hütterott who purchased this land and allowed its nature to flourish.

Now it’s nothing short of an idyll; a beautiful swathe of softwood forest, where cedars, Douglas firs, cypresses and Aleppo pines planted more than 100 years ago are thriving.

Come here to saunter along the trails, relax on the grassy areas or unwind by the little rocky coves along the coast.

6. Monkodonja

When you consider the great age of this archaeological site, atop a scenic hill outside Rovinj, it’s a wonder that so much of it is still intact.

This Bronze Age hill fort was founded in 1800BC, and ceramic fragments discovered at the site suggest that Monkodonja had ties with the Ancient Greek city of Mycenae.

At the site you can check out the walls, many of which are a metre or more in height, and you can also walk along ancient paved areas and a see a cultic cave.

All the while you’ll be able to gaze out over Adriatic and its little green islands, which are particularly lovely at sunset.

7. Balbi’s Arch

Leading to Grisla Street away from the main square is this imposing arch from the late 1670s, and named after Daniel Balbi who was the mayor at the time.

The arch replaced an old town gate and bears the classic Venetian hallmark of the Lion of St. Mark. Curiously there are also two stone heads, one on either side of the arch.

On one you can make out the head of a bearded Venetian, and on the other there’s a Turk, wearing a turban.

8. Rovinj Heritage Museum

This attraction was founded by a group of Rovinj’s artists in the 1950s as a way of bringing together the area’s cultural wealth and displaying the work of local painters and sculptors.

So there’s a gallery space here with some 1500 pieces of contemporary art, next to exhibit rooms with important artefacts relating to the various cultures that settled in Rovinj and the city’s rich maritime history.

The museum’s grand home is a big part of its appeal; it’s a four-storey baroque palace built by the Counts of Califfi in the 1600s.

9. Rovinj Town Clock

If the city’s clock has a fortified air to it, that’s because it once formed Rovinj’s southern defences.

This square tower in the Rovinj’s main square dates back to 1100, and has undergone a few expansions in its time, particularly in the 1600s when it was updated by the Venetians.

Just beneath the clock face you can make out a relief of that famous winged Lion of St. Mark, the symbol of Venice.

For a few hundred years there was a one-cell prison at the base of the tower, now a bureau de change.

10. Local beaches

After days of sightseeing you can also park yourself next to the calm Adriatic Sea, which looks especially tempting on those hot days in July and August.

Within just a few kilometres up or down the shoreline there are 13 beaches. Few of these will resemble the traditional image of a big sandy bay; Istria’s beaches are either hidden coves with rocks that you can dive off, or small arcs of white shingle.

Monte Beach for instance is right next to St. Euphemia in the old town, with a stairway leading down to a pool enclosed on three sides by rock.

The pebble beach at Lone Bay is more developed, fringed by pine forest and furnished with sun loungers.

11. Local gastronomy

For a genuine taste of Istria try fuzi pasta, which is the local pasta variety.

These are small rolled sheets (relatively similar to penne) served with a veal sauce made with wine and tomatoes. In many restaurants they’ll also grate white truffle on top.

Truffles grow in abundance in central Istria’s damp oak forests, and in fact, the all-time largest in the world was discovered outside of Buje in 1999, weighing 1.31 kgs!

Istria’s Italian connection is also clear from the amount of traditional oven pizzerias in towns like Rovinj.

12. Dvigrad

Take a 20-minute trip through the Istrian countryside to see the ruins of a medieval town that was abandoned in the 1700s during a plague epidemic, never to be repopulated.

You can see the castle’s crenellated tower from the Lim Fjord and on a visit you’ll be free to nose around these evocative ruins, including the town gate, walls, some 200 houses and the sagging ruins of the St. Sophia church.

The entire site is being restored and over time more of this eerie old town is taking shape.

Even if you only hold a passing interest in ancient history, you have to get down to Pula in the south of Istria.

The big landmark here is the Arena, a vast Roman amphitheatre with high arched walls that rival Rome’s coliseum.

So much remains that you can even see the original infrastructure; the tunnels that gladiators navigated beneath the arena, and the facilities enjoyed by the richer spectators.

Also see: Things to do in Pula

On the Forum, the Temple of Augustus is also still standing and a working part of the city, as are the gates and triumphal arches of a place that can feel frozen in time.

14. Brijuni National Park

Follow the coast down towards Pula until you reach the seaside town of Fazana.

From here you can catch the ferry to Veli Brijun, the largest island in the remarkable Brijuni National Park.

It’s part of an archipelago of largely uninhabited islands with a fascinating natural and human history. Since prehistory people had settled here, but by the 1700s they had left due to outbreaks of plague.

Make sure you track down the ruins of the two Roman villas, and St. Mary’s Church, built by the Knights Templar in the 1200s. At the Brijuni Cretacious Park you can also see 200 million year-old dinosaur footprints set in the limestone.

Whether you’re an expert, have had courses in the past or are just starting out, it’s a great idea to include scuba diving in your itinerary.

Everything is just right for it around here: the sea is mostly smooth and safe and there are all sorts of interesting things to see beneath the waves.

Experienced divers could explore the wreck of the SS Baron Gautsch, an Austrian merchant ship that was sunk after hitting a mine in the First World War. Ronvinj’s Valdaliso Diving Centre is one of a select few dive centres with permission to dive at this exciting wreck.

15 Best Things to Do in Rovinj (Croatia):

• St. Euphemia Cathedral
• Rovinj Port
• Punta Corrente
• Balbi's Arch
• Rovinj Heritage Museum
• Rovinj Town Clock
• Local beaches
• Local gastronomy
• Brijuni National Park

What to do in Rovinj: The Ultimate Guide to Croatia’s Most Underrated City

by Crazy Travelista | Jun 3, 2017 | Croatia , Off the beaten path , Travel Tips | 12 comments

As holiday seekers flock to Dalmatia for the popular sailing trips on the Adriatic Sea, the Istria region in Croatia is often overlooked. It only took my 8TH TRIP back to Croatia to finally venture to this lesser-known peninsula, due to my intense (and some might say unhealthy) attachment to the mesmerising Dalmatian coast.

Rovinj is located on the coast of the Istria peninsula, in the Western part of Croatia. Istria is known for its impeccable wine, world class gastronomy, coveted (and expensive) truffles, and storybook hilltop towns. What’s not to love about Istria? Please tell me. I’ll wait…

Last September, my friend CareBear and I decided on a more slow-paced holiday and to spend an entire week in Rovinj, using it as a base to explore the Istrian peninsula. Let me start by saying Rovinj is the perfect place to base yourself when exploring this region, given its central position along the coast. Not only that, it’s f***ing gorgeous! That fact is undeniable.

I will say that I wasn’t expecting to love Rovinj as much as I did. The Dalmatian coast has set the bar super high for me and I must admit I am quite biased to that area. You could go as far to say that I’m passionately obsessed with it. But Rovinj absolutely blew me away and it quickly moved to the top as one of my favourite Croatian cities, if not my favourite.

The best way I can describe Rovnj is quaint, charming, clean, colorful, and rustic…all in one perfect package. It sounds cliche, but there are no other words I can use to describe the awesomeness that is Rovinj.

There is not much to see in Rovinj in terms of historical landmarks, monuments, or museums. However, it is one of those places where you can just relax and take in all the surroundings in a peaceful atmosphere. The people are extremely friendly and the service was excellent overall.

First Impressions of Rovinj

Rovinj has such a huge Italian influence, understandably given its close proximity. The city of Rovinj felt like a blend between Italy and Croatia, my 2 favorite countries in the entire world. The food, the rustic architecture, and the colours are like a spitting image of the Ligurian region in Italy (my favourite region in Italy!). At times, I forgot that I was actually in Croatia and felt as if i was in Cinque Terre. That’s how strong the Italian influence was.

What really surprised me about Rovinj is that Croatian didn’t seem to be the dominant language, although technically it is. We heard just as much Italian and German as we did Croatian. And when the locals spoke Croatian, it sounded like it was with an Italian accent. The dialect is completely different from further south along the coast, and it was distinctly apparent. I was extremely surprised to hear how much German was spoke there, until we were informed that these were Austrians speaking and it made sense as this region used to be ruled by Austria in historical times! 

Why is Rovinj so Lovely? Let me Count the Ways…

The Picturesque Streets of Rovinj

Rovinj is the epitome of Picture Perfect. The streets of Rovinj are a photographer’s dream. In fact, Rovinj was one of the most picturesque towns I have ever seen. Period.  My favourite part about Rovinj by far was the consistently stunning streets. Every day we found ourselves just getting lost in the maze-like alleys and having a blast. Around every corner, it was more and more beautiful.

There were numerous little cafes with funky/colourful furniture that were just so visually inviting it made you want to go in for a coffee every 5 minutes. One can only drink so much coffee in a day, but damnit they were just so stinkin’ cute!

The stores were so unique and the eclectic displays were very pleasing to the eye. The immaculate design of each little shop astounded me and silently lured me in. I could have shopped all day, even though I didn’t buy anything. We experienced boutique heaven in Rovinj.

  What To Do in Rovinj

The farmer’s market.

I could never leave a city without visiting the local farmer’s market. In fact, it’s usually the first place I visit when arriving to a new city in order to stock up on some healthy snacks. The Farmer’s Market in Rovinj does not disappoint. The fruit is super fresh, juicy, and robust. The vendors are also very friendly and inviting, often giving you loads of tasting samples.

Honey, olive oil, truffles, and figs, you name it and they had it there. What’s best about this specific one is that it’s basically open all day until about 10pm, unlike most farmer’s markets that are only open in the mornings.

We went there so often that everyone started knowing us by name, and eventually free fruit was thrown in here and there.

Monte Beach

Let me start by saying Rovinj isn’t known for its beaches. The one I would recommend is called Monte Beach and is located just a hop skip and a jump from the center (did I really just say that?).

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Monte Beach isn’t really technically a beach, it’s more like a rocky cove frequented by sunbathers brave enough to lay on the rigid rocks. It was super cute and not too crowded, and this became our little go-to spot every day. We even went here a few times to watch the sunset over the rocks and it was incredible. Check it out at least once if you’re in Rovinj. Oh, and bring some wine.

Church of St Ephemia Clock Tower

This is where you can find the best panoramic views over the city. You have to walk up some wobbly/narrow stairs to get to the top, but it’s worth it for the 360 degree views.

Entrance fee is 3 euros.

Rent A Bike

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This was a great way to see more of just the centre of Rovinj. You can’t really ride the bikes inside the narrow streets. Instead, we went along the coast where some of the other more populated beaches were located. There were rental places all throughout the city, so no need to book in advance. 

Go Boutique Shopping (or in our case, window shopping)

There was no shortage of specialty boutiques in the city, from eclectic jewellery shops selling one-of-a-kind pieces to musical shops selling cool vintage instruments. The displays in these stores were outstanding and you could really appreciate the attention to detail. All were so funky and different, it was nice to just browse through them one by one, entertaining our curiosities.

Find the Most Instagrammed Spot in Rovinj

As you’re walking through the city, you may stumble upon the cutest little street ever and your head will turn (as did mine). Can you see why it’s the most Instagrammable street in Rovinj?

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Secret Find: Mediterraneo Bar

This was by far our absolute favorite place in Rovinj and we came back every single day. The irresistible archway framing the steps leading into the sea is what initially drew us in. A cozy cafe by day and a coveted drinking spot during sunset, this is the place you will want to be.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Carey C Dreyer Tʀᴀᴠᴇʟ Curator (@carebearabroad)

Newly opened in May 2015 by a Rovinj native, Jasmin Huskic, Mediterraneo Bar serves coffee and speciality cocktails in a cozy seaside retreat. The staff is warm and inviting, always making sure you are enjoying your time.

The cafe/bar is nicely decorated with an eclectic and bohemian inspired flare. Plush colourful cushions placed on the rocks and mismatched furniture give it a vibrant atmosphere. During the day, you have the option of jumping from the rocks and swimming right in front of the cafe. How cool?

The best part about this bar is the “ secrete escape ” spot that is, well…a secret. Tucked away in a private corner on the rocks, there is a magical spot that offers privacy in a romantic setting with a small table, cushions, and soft blankets offered for the cold night breeze.

The secret escape has become so popular that reservations are now warranted for this coveted spot. It was truly a unique experience watching the sunset in our own private little nest.

Mediterraneo Bar is seriously one of my favorite cafes I have ever been to! Hands-down. And no, this isn’t sponsored in any way, it’s really that awesome! If you make it over there, tell Jasmin that Crazy Travelista and CareBear Abroad say hi!

Where to Stay in Rovinj

As I usually do, I highly recommend using Airbnb for accommodation. During my search, I came across a big variety of choices in the center of the city and at very reasonable prices. We chose to stay in the center and it was the absolute perfect location, everything within a few minutes walk.   We picked a private apartment and we couldn’t have been happier. It happened to be on what became our favourite street in Rovinj, with a restaurant and coffee bar conveniently outside our door.

The one-bedroom apartment had a full kitchen, private bathroom and shower, wifi, a flat screen TV, and a pull out couch. The apartment could fit 3 people comfortably. We really enjoyed utilizing the kitchen to save money on eating out every meal. The total price for one week including all taxes and fees was $350 ($175 each split between us). It could have been even less if we had one more with us. We paid a little more this time for the prime location and it was well worth it.

You can check out our Airbnb rental here. (Update: the price has increased a bit since we stayed here, wahhh). And if you’re new to Airbnb, feel free to use my $40 off coupon! They really do have a great referral program! (PS: even if you already have a AirBnb account, you can sign up with a new email and still get the $40 OFF. YAY)

Where to Eat in Rovinj

As a Gluten-free eater, my restaurant recommendations are often limited as I can only sample a small selection of foods, unfortunately. I also tend to cook most my meals if I can, even when I’m traveling. Nevertheless, I did manage to find a few Gluten-friendly options that I really enjoyed.

Pano e Vino -I was so excited to find an Italian place that served Gluten-free pasta. I sampled the gluten-free bolognese and the seafood risotto which were both flavourful and rich. I loved the fact that they brought out gluten-free bruschetta as an appetizer on the house, as well as gluten-free bread with our meals. I highly recommend this place even if you are not gluten free. The staff was super friendly and even gave us a whole bottle of honey grappa on the house. If we hadn’t eaten here the last night, I would have definitely returned again.

Squid 2 -this restaurant has a great view of the riva and offers a variety of fresh seafood. We opted for the fish platter for 2 and it was very good and filling. The bonus is that they take credit cards.

Scuba -this restaurant also offered a variety of gluten-free options at a reasonable price. I also sampled the seafood risotto here, which was delightful and a very big portion.

B52 -this place had the best gelato we tried in Rovinj and with the biggest selection. This is also the ONLY place that would allow us to sample the flavors. The scoops were huge and well worth the price. I recommend the fig gelato, unusual, yet mouthwatering.

How to Get to Rovinj

Planes, trains, and automobiles…literally. The only airport located in the Istrian region is in Pula, about 40 minutes by bus to Rovinj (costs 43 kuna). There are many affordable flights to Pula within Croatia on Croatia Airlines. I flew from Zadar to Pula for around $75 and it took less than an hour.

There are also busses from Split and Dubrovnik by Bus Croatia , but they are less frequent, take 9-12 hours, and some cost almost as much as a flight. Busses from Zagreb take about 6 hours.

You could also rent a car and drive to Rovinj; however, parking in the city can be a pain in the butt. Also, you really would only need a car for a day or 2 at the most, so if you are staying for a week it’s kind of a waste of money in my opinion.

Your best bet is snagging a cheap flight from Dalmatia or Zagreb!

How to Get Around Rovinj

By foot! It’s a total walkable city given its small size. You can get anywhere in 15 minutes max. I do however, recommend renting a car for one day to explore the surrounding region.

Exploring Istria (day trip)

One thing you must do in this region is get out and explore the countryside by car. In fact, this is the only way to reach the nearby hilltop towns, as public transport doesn’t serve most of these areas.

https://www.instagram.com/p/7VNjSiuW8H/?taken-by=crazytravelista

Highly recommended on your Istrian road trip are the towns of Motovun, Hum, Groznjan, and Novigrad. You can do them all in one day as they are all less than an hour and fifteen minutes from Rovinj! Just make sure to get an early start. To get all the details, read my post  Exploring Istria, Croatia by Car: the Perfect 1-Day Road Trip

Day Trip It to Pula

Pula lies on the southern tip of the Istrian Peninsula and is a short 35-ish minute bus ride from Rovinj. The main attraction in Pula is the magnificent Pula Area, which was constructed back in the 1ST CENTURY! In fact, it’s older than the Colosseum in Rome! It’s also the 6th largest Roman arena in the world that still exists today!

There are also a few cute beaches to visit in Pula, as well as the nearby Kamenjak National Park, which I’m kicking myself for not getting to (I was short on time). If you make it over to Kamenjak, please let me know what I missed!

Moral of the Story?

GO TO ROVINJ! It’s an overlooked Croatian splendour that doesn’t get the hype it very well deserves. Rovinj is very relaxing and romantic, the perfect base for exploring the Istria countryside, is filled with hospitable people, has great food, and is undeniably drop-dead gorgeous! All the elements of THE perfect city if you ask me!

Do you have any other tips for what to do in Rovinj? Any secret finds I failed to mention? Please let me know in the comments below! I would love to check them out when I finally return!

Click photo to Pin for later♥

MY TOP 5 RECOMMENDED TRAVEL GEAR FOR CROATIA:

1 . Sony Alpha 6000 Mirrorless Camera : I made the switch from my huge DSLR and I wouldn’t go back. It’s light, compact, and takes amazing photos!

2. Sony 10-18mm Wide Angle Zoom Lens : this wide angle lens is the key to landscape shots. I use this lens more than the original and am super happy with it. It’s not cheap, but super worth it if you want to get those special nature shots. Honestly, I would purchase the Sony alpha 6000 camera body only and save up for this lens to go with it.

4. Anker Portable Charger : this helps me recharge my iPhone several times a day when i travel. It also has dual ports so you can also charge your camera or other electronics simultaneously. I couldn’t travel with it.

5. GoPro Hero 11 Black : I am a proud GoPro ambassador and obsessed with GoPro selfie pics if you didn’t notice! The Gopro cameras are the best for action and underwater shots, and of course for taking those selfies when you’re traveling solo.  It’s super small, compact, and easy to travel with. Plus it’s so much fun to use! 🙂

Disclaimer: this post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a super small commission if you make a purchase using these links, at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products that I have used before on my own and that I truly love 🙂

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12 Comments

Rovinj seems like a slice of paradise 🙂 I’ll be visiting in September and I can’t wait. Thanks for the wonderful guide and the photos are sooo dreamy. XX

Thanks so much. That’s so exciting you’re going soon. September is the absolute BEST time to go! Hope you have a blast!! 🙂

Oooh, I’m a fan of less-visited destinations, too! If it had a sandy beach, I’d be in danger of never leaving, but it looks like a great place to travel. That Mediterraneo Bar looks too cute to miss!

Haha ya sandy beaches are hard to come by in Croatia but you get used to it because the water and surroundings are just so pretty!

I had heard a lot about the major cities but this is the first time I heard of Rovinj. It looks really beautiful and less touristy. Gorgeous photos, love the cobbled streets and quaint buildings.

It’s my fav city in Croatia!! So quaint and less touristy than the other places. This was also in September though, which is THE absolute best time to visit Croatia!! 🙂

I would’ve never known about Rovinj if it weren’t for you and Carey! I had to pin this to help me plan my early october plans as I reallyyyyyy missed out on the best this adorable little city has to offer by going after everything was already closed. I also need to go back if only to see the city from the church clocktower, serious regret right now for not going up!

I hope everything will still be open in October! You might have a chance if its the first week. Oh, and you gotta rent a car and visit the hilltop towns close by, they were so adorable and it was seriously like a fairytale!!!

Omg this city looks so gorgeous! I roadtripped to dubravonik from Austria and am so pissed at myself for not stopping here. GUESS ILL HAVE TO GO AGAIN OH WELL!

Haha yes!! Oh darn, I gotta visit Croatia again. Bummer! Seriously don’t miss it next time, its magical!

This just made me so excited for my stay here in July. I start my trip through Croatia in Rovinj, then Pula, then we are renting a car to drive to the rest of Croatia. But Rovinj came highly recommended by friends and I can see why. Excited to check out some of these spots when I get there!

Yessss you’re gong to have the best time!! Rovinj will blow you away!!! Make sure to do a day trip around Istria and hit up Motovun, Hum, Grožnan!!! I am publishing an article in a few days about this road trip and how you can do it in a day so check back if you’re interested! :). Enjoy Croatia!

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Rovinj Travel Guide: 20 Things to do in Rovinj, Museums and History

December 8, 2023 | Posted in: Croatia

Rovinj is a coastal town on Croatia's Western Coast of the Istrian peninsula. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Croatia due to its well-preserved, old town and scenic location along the Adriatic Sea. Rovinj's old town features medieval, Renaissance and Baroque architecture that reflects various rulers throughout history. Rovinj has a total population of 12,968 residents. This population breakdown shows that 11,629 residents live in the city proper, with the remainder in the outlying area of Rovinjsko Selo.

Rovinj features cobblestone streets lined with houses, shops, galleries, restaurants and cafés in Venetian-influenced architecture. Rovinj is known for landmarks like the Church of St. Euphemia, the lively harborfront and scenic nature areas like Golden Cape Park nearby. Some activities visitors can do in Rovinj's old town are to explore the narrow alleyways, visit sights like St. Euphemia Church, climb the bell tower, go shopping at small artisan boutiques, dine at a seaside café and take in the quaint, artsy atmosphere. Other activities in the Rovinj area include boating, kayaking or paddleboarding from the harbor, hiking nature trails, cycling, wine tasting and more. There are beaches, parks, museums, boat tours and ample sightseeing.

Rovinj appeals to people of all ages and interests. Families, couples, solo travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, foodies, history and architecture buffs will all find something to enjoy. Certain parks and beaches are family-friendly. There are guided tours and kid-focused museums, making it engaging for children. Rovinj is located in the Central European Time (CET) zone. The standard time is defined as UTC+1. This means Rovinj is 1 hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time.

Listed below are the best things to do in Rovinj.

• Old Town (Stari Grad). The Old Town (Stari Grad) is the well-preserved medieval center of Rovinj, located on a peninsula jutting into the Adriatic Sea. The Old Town is known for its Venetian architecture and active street life. The pedestrian-friendly cobblestone lanes feature historic sights, shops, galleries, cafés and harbor views. Visitors can explore the winding alleyways, climb the bell tower of St. Euphemia Church, go shopping or dining and take in the quaint, artsy atmosphere. The Old Town is perfect for people of all ages interested in architecture, history, arts and culture and there is no admission fee to enter the Old Town.
• Church of St. Euphemia. The Church of St. Euphemia towers over Rovinj Old Town from its hilltop location. Built 1725-36 to house the relics of Rovinj's patron saint, the church is notable for its ornate interior and 61-meter bell tower modeled on St. Mark's in Venice. Visitors can view the decor, the saint's sarcophagus and artwork and climb the tower for sweeping views over the town. The church and bell tower appeal to visitors of all backgrounds interested in architecture, history, religion and sightseeing, with no admission fees.
• Rovinj Harbor. Rovinj Harbor is an active fishing and tourist port on the Adriatic Sea in the town of Rovinj on Croatia's Istrian Peninsula. It offers beautiful views of Rovinj's old town and is lined with colorful houses, small fishing boats, tourist boats and yachts. Visitors can take boat tours to nearby islands, go fishing, watch fishermen haul in their catch, browse cafes and restaurants along the waterfront and enjoy the views and sunset. It can be easily accessed on foot from Rovinj's old town.
• Balbi's Arch. Balbi's Arch is a 17th-century stone archway in Rovinj, Croatia's old town. It stands on the site of a former entrance gate into the medieval fortified town. It has intricate stone carvings, including the Balbi family crest, Venetian symbols and Turkish head sculptures. The arch serves as the entrance into the pedestrian zone of Rovinj's old town, leading to Grisia Street. Visitors can admire the ornate stonework and pass through the archway into Rovinj's historic core.
• Golden Cape Park (Zlatni Rt Park). Golden Cape Park (Zlatni Rt Park) is a 71-hectare protected forest park on a peninsula south of Rovinj, Croatia. The park was established in 1961 and it contains native and exotic trees like Aleppo pine, cypress, cedar and olive. Key features include Himalayan Cedars planted in a six-pointed star shape, remnants of Johann Georg Hütterott's 19th-century estate and a former Venetian quarry now used for rock climbing. The park offers stunning views over Rovinj and nearby islands and coastlines. It provides opportunities for walking, cycling, climbing and swimming from its beaches and coves and can be easily accessed and enjoyed by visitors.
• Lone Bay. Lone Bay is a 0.3-kilometer (0.1 miles) pebbly and rocky beach in the Zlatni Rt (Golden Cape) forest park in Rovinj, Croatia. It features crystal-clear waters and tall pine trees that provide natural shade. The beach offers amenities like showers, public toilets, chairs, umbrella rentals and a beach bar. Popular activities at Lone Bay include swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, kayaking and paddleboarding. The beach is suitable for all visitors, especially families, due to its shallow, calm waters. Lone Bay offers stunning sunset views and easy access by foot, bike or car, with free public parking available. There is no admission fee to enter the beach.
• Grisia Street. Grisia Street is a cobblestone pedestrian street in the old town of Rovinj, Croatia, lined with art galleries, shops and restaurants. Local and international artists display paintings, photographs and sculptures, turning the street into an outdoor art gallery during the annual open-air art festival held each August. Visitors can view artwork while strolling uphill past colorful Venetian-style architecture to the Baroque-style St. Euphemia Church, which offers panoramic views over Rovinj.
• Rovinj Aquarium. Rovinj Aquarium is located in Rovinj, Croatia and houses over 300 species of Adriatic marine life in 30 tanks. It first opened in 1891 as a field research station for the Berlin Aquarium, making it one of the oldest aquariums in Europe. Visitors can observe fish, mollusks, sea spiders, rays, sharks and more while learning about each species through informational signs. The aquarium is open daily from 9 am to 4 pm during peak season. It is perfect for all ages, especially those interested in marine biology. Rovinj Aquarium allows observing numerous marine creatures closely in a 19th-century facility.
• Punta Corrente Park (Golden Cape Forest Park). Punta Corrente Park (Golden Cape Forest Park) is a 52-hectare protected nature area located south of Rovinj, Croatia. Established in the late 19th century, it contains a rich biodiversity of Mediterranean plants. The park's scenic trails, beaches, quarry and recreational facilities draw outdoor enthusiasts. Its uniqueness was recognized in 1961 by designating it a protected forest park. The park can be easily accessed from Rovinj Center by foot or bicycle and is free from any entrance fees.

1. Old Town (Stari Grad)

The Old Town (Stari Grad) is the historic center of Rovinj, located on a peninsula jutting into the Adriatic Sea. It dates back to the Middle Ages and features narrow, cobbled streets with houses, shops, galleries, restaurants and cafés. The Old Town is renowned for its picturesque Venetian architecture and harbor views. Visitors can explore the winding alleyways, visit sights like St. Euphemia Church, climb the bell tower, go shopping, have a meal at a seaside café and take in the character of this quaint area.

The Old Town is located on a peninsula in Rovinj, in the Istria region of Croatia. It is referred to as Stari Grad Rovinj or Rovinj Stari Grad. Visitors can explore the narrow cobblestone streets, shops and galleries, have a meal or drink at a café, climb the bell tower of St. Euphemia Church and take in the sights and atmosphere. The Old Town is pedestrian-friendly. The Old Town can be reached on foot from Rovinj town center. It is accessible by car or taxi, with parking lots on the outskirts since the interior streets are mostly car-free. The Old Town is perfect for people of all ages interested in architecture, history, arts and culture and there is no admission fee to enter the Old Town.

2. Church of St. Euphemia

The Church of St. Euphemia is a Baroque church in the heart of Rovinj's Old Town. It was built between 1725 and 1736 to house the sarcophagus and relics of Saint Euphemia, a Christian martyr and the patron saint of Rovinj. The church is in the central square of Rovinj's Old Town, at Trg Sv. Eufemije 52210, Croatia. It is sometimes referred to as the Basilica of Saint Euphemia. The Church of St. Euphemia is significant as the largest church in Istria and one of Croatia's most important Baroque monuments. It dominates the skyline of Rovinj with its imposing 61-meter bell tower modeled after St. Mark's Campanile in Venice.

Visitors can see the decorated interior of the church, view artwork and frescoes, visit the altar and sarcophagus housing Saint Euphemia's relics and climb the bell tower for panoramic views over Rovinj. The church can be accessed by walking through Rovinj's Old Town. It sits atop a hill at the highest point of the peninsula. The church and bell tower appeal to visitors of all backgrounds interested in architecture, history, religion and sightseeing, with no admission fees.

3. Rovinj Harbor

Rovinj Harbor is an active fishing and tourist port nestled on the shores of the Adriatic Sea in the coastal town of Rovinj, Croatia. It is situated on the western coast of the Istrian Peninsula, surrounded by the old town of Rovinj. The harbor is dotted with bobbing fishing boats, yachts and local banana boats, with colorful pastel-hued houses lining the waterfront. From the harbor, visitors are treated to scenic vistas of Rovinj's red-roofed old town clustering up the hill, crowned by the towering Church of St. Euphemia. In the mornings, one can watch the local fishermen haul in crates of fresh seafood right off their boats.

The harbor walkway and piers are lined with cafes, gelaterias, seafood restaurants and bars, perfect for whiling away the afternoon with a glass of wine or coffee. Visitors can book boat trips to nearby islands, go sea fishing or simply relax along the water's edge. Ferries and water taxis to Red Island, Katarina Island and beyond operate from the harbor. The easy accessibility of Rovinj Harbor from the pedestrian-only old town makes it one of the most visited and photographed spots in Rovinj.

4. Balbi's Arch

Balbi's Arch is a historic Baroque-style arch in the pedestrian-only old town of Rovinj, Croatia. It stands on what was previously one of the main gates into the medieval fortified town of Rovinj during the 17th-century Venetian rule. Built between 1678 and 1679, the archway is intricately decorated with carvings of symbolic faces and figures representing the Venetian empire and the reigning Balbi family. These include a stone-carved Venetian lion holding an open book, a coat of arms of the Balbi family, a bearded Venetian face and an ornate Turkish face wearing a turban on the opposite side.

The arch spans the cobbled street, serving as the main passageway from Rovinj's central town square into the atmospheric web of narrow, winding streets that characterize the old town. Visitors can admire the fine stonemasonry and symbolic carvings up close while walking under the elaborate archway. The landmark makes for beautiful photography, with the arch framing the old town behind it. As the entrance to the pedestrian-only streets, the Balbi's Arch signals one's entry into the historic heart of Rovinj, which has remained remarkably preserved through the centuries. The archway is open to the public year-round at no cost.

5. Golden Cape Park (Zlatni Rt Park)

Golden Cape Park, known as Zlatni Rt Park or Punta Corrente Forest Park, is a protected 71-hectare forest park located on a peninsula, south of Rovinj in Istria, Croatia. It was established in 1961 within a coastal area landscaped in the late 19th century by Austrian admiral Johann Georg Hütterott. The park contains native and exotic tree species, including Aleppo pine, stone pine, cypress, cedar, olive and others. There are open meadow areas. The park offers stunning views over Rovinj as well as the nearby islands and coastline. Key features include the Himalayan Cedars planted in the shape of a six-pointed star, remnants of Hütterott's estate and a former Venetian quarry now used by rock climbers. The protected area provides walking, cycling, climbing and swimming opportunities from the park's beaches and coves.

The park was established in the late 19th century by Georg Hütterott, a wealthy businessman who landscaped the area with exotic tree species and walking paths with the intention of developing a health resort. Although his vision was never fully realized, the area was later protected as a nature park due to its ecological significance. Golden Cape Park is a popular spot for recreation and outdoor activities. Visitors can go hiking, running or cycling on miles of trails, rock climbing on the coastal cliffs and quarries or relaxing on the park's beaches and pebble coves. There are restaurants, cafes and beach clubs located throughout the park.

6. Lone Bay

Lone Bay is located in Rovinj, Croatia, along the Adriatic Sea. It sits within the protected Zlatni Rt (Golden Cape) forest park. The beach stretches to 0.3 kilometers (0.1 miles) and features crystal clear waters, pebbles, pine trees and views of Rovinj's old town skyline and nearby islands.

Visitors to Lone Bay can go swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, paddle boarding or kayaking. There are amenities like public restrooms, outdoor showers, chair and umbrella rentals, a lifeguard in season and a beach bar for drinks and snacks. The beach is easily accessible by foot, bike or car, with free public parking. Lone Bay attracts all types of visitors but is especially popular with families due to its shallow, calm waters. There is no admission fee to access Lone Bay beach.

7. Grisia Street

Grisia Street is a cobblestone pedestrian street in the old town of Rovinj, winding uphill from the harborfront to the imposing Church of St. Euphemia. It earned a nickname as “the street of artists,” Grisia is lined with art galleries, souvenir shops, cafés, restaurants and colorful two-story townhouses and studios featuring lovely Venetian Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Stone steps and narrow alleyways branch off the main street, revealing small courtyards and creative niches to explore.

Grisia Street is most famous as the site of a massive open-air art exhibition held annually here since 1967. Local and international artists display paintings, photographs and sculptures, turning the street into an outdoor art gallery during the annual open-air art festival held each August. Visitors can casually stroll down the street to view a wide range of works while chatting with artists about their creative process and inspiration. The festival features poetry readings, theatrical performances and musicians. People of all ages attend, including serious art collectors and families, locals and tourists. The free event allows visitors to appreciate art al fresco against the charming backdrop of historic architecture.

8. Rovinj Aquarium

Rovinj Aquarium is located in Rovinj, Croatia, at the address Giordano Paliaga 5. It is referred to as the Center for Marine Research Ruder Boskovic. Rovinj Aquarium is special as it is one of the oldest aquariums in Europe, opened in 1891. It started as a field research station for the Berlin Aquarium. The Rovinj Aquarium houses over 300 species of Adriatic marine life in 30 tanks, including fish, crustaceans, mollusks, sea spiders, sea horses, rays, sharks and more.

Visitors can observe the various sea creatures and learn about marine biology through informational signs about each species. The aquarium is open daily from 9 am to 4 pm during peak season. It is perfect for people of all ages, especially those interested in marine life. Bus, ferry or foot transportation is required to reach the aquarium in Rovinj's old town.

9. Punta Corrente Park (Golden Cape Forest Park)

Punta Corrente Park, known as Golden Cape Forest Park, is a protected nature area on a peninsula south of Rovinj in Croatia. It covers 52 hectares and contains a rich diversity of native and exotic Mediterranean plant species, including pine, cypress, cedar, oak and olive trees. The park was established in the late 19th century by Count Johann Georg Hütterott, who landscaped the area with the intention of building a health resort. The beauty of Punta Corrente was recognized in 1961 when it was officially designated as a protected forest park.

Punta Corrente Park is special for its scenic landscape and rich biodiversity. It contains thousands of native and exotic plant species coexisting in a Mediterranean landscape. The park offers various outdoor recreational activities in a serene natural setting. Visitors to Punta Corrente Park can go hiking, running, cycling, rock climbing, swimming, sunbathing, picnicking and nature walking. There are scenic trails, beaches, coves and an old quarry transformed into a free climbing site and entry to Punta Corrente Park is free. The park is perfect for people of all ages, especially outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, families and couples who frequent the park for recreation.

10. Monte Mulini Beach

Monte Mulini Beach is located in Lone Bay on the southern coast of Rovinj, Croatia, near ACI Marina. It is a newly renovated public beach reopened in 2014 with modern amenities while retaining its natural charm. The beach is referred to as the “Moulin Rouge” beach.

Monte Mulini Beach has a scenic coastal walking promenade connecting it to Punta Corrente Park, clear blue waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling, a relaxed ambiance and sunset views across Rovinj's old town and islands. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, snorkel, walk along the beachfront, enjoy views of nearby islands, have drinks and light meals at the beachfront bar and watch beautiful sunsets. Water sports activities like stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking are also available. Monte Mulini Beach can be easily accessed from Rovinj town center via the waterfront walking path past the marina and forest park. The beach is perfect for people of all ages, including families with children. Entry and access to Monte Mulini Beach is free. Sun loungers and umbrellas can be rented from nearby hotels.

11. Batana Eco-Museum

Batana Eco-Museum is located in Rovinj, Croatia, at Obala Pina Budicina 2. It is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the maritime heritage of Rovinj, with a focus on the traditional wooden batana fishing boats that have long been an important symbol of the town's fishing culture.

The museum features a permanent multimedia exhibition that allows visitors to explore the history and significance of the batana through interactive displays, videos, photographs and authentic objects. Events that bring the batana traditions to life are held in the summer. Visitors can observe batana boats being built and launched in the “Little Shipyard”, enjoy concerts of traditional Rovinj music and sample local seafood specialties. The museum also offers opportunities to ride in an authentic batana boat, guided by local “barkarioli” fishermen.

The Batana Eco-Museum won recognition from UNESCO in 2016 for its efforts to preserve Rovinj's intangible maritime heritage. It provides a unique look at this coastal town's identity and serves as an innovative model for community-driven cultural conservation.

12. Katarina Island

Katarina Island is a small island in the Adriatic Sea, just off the coast of Rovinj, Croatia. It is the second-largest island in the Rovinj archipelago, with an area of about 130,000 square meters. The island features abundant Mediterranean vegetation like pine trees, oleander bushes, vineyards and olive trees. It is known for its beautiful parks and gardens, originally designed in the 19th century. Katarina Island is referred to as St. Catherine's Island or Santa Catarina Island.

Katarina Island highlights its peaceful, car-free environment and proximity to Rovinj's Old Town. Visitors to Katarina Island can enjoy swimming and sunbathing at its rocky and pebbly beaches on the east side, cliff jumping off the 20-meter high “Golden Rock”, exploring the walking trails or relaxing at the Island Hotel Katarina, which has pools, restaurants and bars. The island is accessible by boat, which departs hourly from Rovinj's Delfin Pier. Katarina Island is perfect for all visitors, including families, couples and solo travelers seeking a scenic getaway.

13. Adriatic Sunset Cruise

The Adriatic Sunset Cruise is a 2-hour boat tour that departs from Rovinj, Croatia and takes visitors around the nearby islands while enjoying dusk falling over the Adriatic Sea. The cruise is operated by a local tour company called Rovinj Archipelago, which picks visitors up from Rovinj's ACI Marina.

The sunset cruise allows visitors to witness the captivating colors of the sky during golden hours as the sun slowly sinks into the sea. It is a scenic opportunity to view the old town of Rovinj and the surrounding islands. Visitors may even have the chance to encounter wild dolphins swimming and dancing in the sea during their cruise. The cruise costs €30 ($32, £26) per adult and includes an experienced skipper and hostess, bottled water and fruit juice, small bites, windproof jackets and a glass of champagne. It is perfect for adults and older children seeking scenic views, possible dolphin sightings and a unique sunset experience off the Croatian coast.

The cruise company is at Šetalište vijeća Europe 1, 52210, Rovinj, Croatia. Their port of departure is the ACI Marina in Rovinj, just steps from where visitors are picked up and dropped off.

14. Rovinj Heritage Museum

Rovinj Heritage Museum is an art museum in a 17th-century Baroque palace in the old town of Rovinj, Croatia. The museum houses a collection of over 1500 works of art, including Renaissance and Baroque paintings, contemporary Croatian art, archaeological artifacts, maritime objects and ethnographic items. Visitors can view the permanent collections and special exhibitions focused on modern artists or eras. The museum also hosts events and has guided tours available.

Visitors can view the permanent collections and special exhibitions at the Rovinj Heritage Museum. Guided museum tours are also available. The museum is perfect for adults, children and families interested in art, history, culture and maritime heritage. The Rovinj Heritage Museum can be reached on foot. Parking is available outside the old town, with transfers to the museum by golf cart from select hotels.

15. Limski Kanal (Limski Fjord)

Limski Kanal, known as Lim Fjord, is a 10-kilometer (6.2 miles) long sea inlet located on the west coast of the Istrian Peninsula in Croatia, between the towns of Rovinj and Vrsar. It was formed when a river valley flooded during the last ice age, creating steep, forested cliffs up to 150 m high along the winding channel. The area is known for its dramatic natural scenery, rock climbing routes, caves, rich marine life and seafood such as mussels and oysters from local farms. Boat trips and restaurants can be found along the shores of Limski Kanal.

Limski Kanal has a protected status due to the purity of the water and rich biodiversity. Visitors can take boat trips to see the scenery of Limski Kanal, enjoy swimming and rock climbing along its shores, explore caves like St. Romuald's Cave and feast on fresh local seafood at waterside restaurants. Limski Kanal can be accessed by road by taking the main coastal highway to Rovinj or Vrsar. Organized boat trips to the channel are available from various towns along the Istrian coast. Limski Kanal is perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, foodies and sightseers of all ages looking to experience the natural beauty and activities of the area. There is no admission fee to access Limski Kanal.

16. Rovinj Islands

The Rovinj Islands are a group of 22 islands and islets located just off the coast of Rovinj in Istria County, Croatia. The two largest islands are St. Andrew Island and St. Catherine Island. St. Andrew Island, also known as Red Island or Crveni Otok, consists of St. Andrew Island and the smaller Maskin Island, which are connected by an embankment. The islands feature scenic landscapes with dense Mediterranean vegetation, old-growth forests, walking trails and small, quiet beaches and coves that are popular swimming spots.

Visitors can take hourly taxi boats from Rovinj to explore the islands. The main attractions are the remains of a 6th-century Benedictine monastery, the 19th-century castle and the Family Hotel Istra on St. Andrews Island, one of the islands of Rovinj. The hotel has a restaurant, pools, sports facilities and a wellness center. St. Catherine Island has lush parks, gardens with rare plants and trees and the Hotel Katarina. There are no admission fees to visit the islands. The islands appeal to nature lovers, couples seeking romance and families.

17. Outdoor Activities (Water sports, hiking)

Rovinj is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering a wide range of activities to enjoy the beautiful seascapes and landscapes. The most popular water sports include sea kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), windsurfing, kitesurfing and scuba diving. Many local companies, such as Adistra, offer kayak and paddleboard rentals and guided tours that take you around the islands and coves near Rovinj. These tours allow visitors to explore the areas while also getting adventurous with snorkeling and swimming stops. Kitesurfing and windsurfing are also popular due to the wind conditions off Rovinj's coast. And the clear waters provide high visibility for exciting scuba diving opportunities. Dive sites like the Baron Gautsch shipwreck let certified divers explore the fascinating underwater world.

In terms of land activities, hiking and biking are very popular ways to take in the scenery inland from Rovinj. Golden Cape Park, just south of Rovinj, offers pleasant walking trails through peaceful pine forests along the seaside. The cobblestone streets lead up to landmarks like St. Euphemia Church, making for scenic hiking paths down to the harbor. Cyclists can bike along flatter areas like the Lim Fjord or take on more challenging mountain biking trails. Many guided hiking, cycling and multi-adventure tours can be booked through prominent local companies like Rovinj Adventure. With so many options, Rovinj has outdoor activities to suit solo travelers, couples, families, groups and all interests and abilities.

18. Wine tasting

Wine tasting is the sensory examination and evaluation of wine. It involves observing the wine's appearance, smelling its aromas, tasting it and spatially spreading the wine in the mouth to sense mouthfeel and other tactile properties. The purpose of wine testing is to assess certain characteristics and qualities of the wine and determine its value and potential for storage and aging.

Wine testing typically takes place in dedicated rooms called wine-tasting rooms. These rooms provide ideal environmental conditions for assessing wines, such as consistent ambient temperature, dim lighting, neutral colors on walls, no distracting sounds and separate booths for individuals or small groups. The rooms can be found at wineries producing wines, restaurants and bars serving a range of wines and wine shops specializing in selling many wine varieties. No strict admission rules exist for general wine-tasting sessions open to the public at tasting rooms. Reservations may be required for special winemaker dinners or exclusive wine events. The audience that wine tasting appeals to the most are wine enthusiasts, connoisseurs, wine traders, sommeliers and tourists curious to learn more about wines.

19. Traditional Istrian Cuisine

Traditional Istrian cuisine is the historical cuisine native to the Istrian peninsula in northwestern Croatia. It reflects various influences from its location between the Adriatic Sea and inland near the Alps, as well as domination over centuries by major empires like Rome, Venice, Austria-Hungary, Italy and Yugoslavia. This resulted in Istrian cuisine adopting elements from Italian, Slavic, Germanic, Greek and other Mediterranean food cultures.

The cuisine centers around the Istrian peninsula towns, like Rovinj, Pula, Poreč, Motovun, Labin and Buzet. It relies heavily on high-quality ingredients like seafood from the Adriatic, meats from native livestock breeds, truffles and wild asparagus from forests, olive oil and grapes from local groves and vineyards. Signature dishes include fuži pasta, maneštra bean and vegetable soup, boškarin beef stews, pršut dry-cured ham, sheep's milk cheese, fritaja omelets and kroštule fritters.

Visitors can best experience traditional Istrian cuisine by dining at rustic family-run taverns called konobas located inland, which serve homestyle cooking paired with local wines. Some popular konobas include Konoba Morgan in Brtonigla, Konoba Mondo in Motovun, Konoba Castello in Buzet and Konoba Batelina in Banjole.

20. Monkodonja Hill Fort

Monkodonja Hill Fort is a Bronze Age archaeological site from around 1800-1200 BC located about 5 km southeast of the city of Rovinj in Istria, Croatia. It sits atop a hill 81 meters above sea level, surrounded by massive dry stone defensive walls making an irregular oval shape over 250 meters long and 160 meters wide. The site is also referred to as Moncodogno in Italian, after the nearby village. Monkodonja is significant because it represents an exceptionally well-preserved prehistoric fortified hill settlement layout. There was an acropolis on top and houses terraced on two lower levels, with workshops and storerooms along the defensive walls. At its peak, Monkodonja likely had around 1000 inhabitants and was an important trade outpost.

Visitors to Monkodonja Hill Fort can take a self-guided walking tour to explore the remains of fortification walls, house foundations, storage rooms, gates and pathways traversing the settlement. Interpretive signboards provide background on the various excavated sections to help visualize life in the Bronze Age town. The site would appeal most to history and archaeology buffs interested in visualizing life in ancient times. There is no admission fee to enter the fort.

What are the best museums to visit in Rovinj?

Listed below are the best museums to visit in Rovinj.

• Rovinj Heritage Museum. Rovinj Heritage Museum is in an 18th-century Baroque palace in the heart of Rovinj's old town. It houses a rich collection of art and artifacts related to Rovinj's history and culture, including paintings, sculptures, ancient coins, ceramics and more. The highlight is the collection of works by renowned 15th-19th century Italian artists. Visitors can take guided tours and attend special exhibitions held throughout the year.
• Batana Eco-Museum. Batana Eco-Museum is dedicated to Rovinj's traditional wooden fishing boat, the “batana”. Batana Museum uses interactive multimedia exhibits to showcase the history and construction of this boat and the life of Rovinj's fishermen. Visitors can see fishing nets being repaired, join a banana boat ride and attend musical events.
• Rovinj Aquarium. Rovinj Aquarium was founded in 1891 and features aquarium houses with various marine life specimens found around Rovinj and the Adriatic Sea, including corals, sponges, mollusks, crustaceans and fish. It serves as a rehabilitation center for sea turtles. This is a great place for families and marine life enthusiasts.
• Mini Croatia Park. Mini Croatia Park is an open-air museum featuring miniature models of famous Croatian landmarks spread over 5,500 square meters. Highlights include models of Dubrovnik's walls, Diocletian's Palace and Zagreb Cathedral. This park in Rovinj is great for families.
• Atelier Sottomuro . Atelier Sottomuro is an art gallery that exhibits the dreamlike, surrealistic paintings and sculptures of artist Jan Ejsymontt in a cozy space. Visitors can view and purchase original artwork in acrylic, jewelry pieces and more. The gallery hosts art workshops and yoga classes.

What are the best things to do in Rovinj with kids?

Listed below are the best things to do in Rovinj with kids.

• Dinopark Funtana. Dinopark Funtana is a dinosaur-themed adventure park near Rovinj where kids can ride ponies, see dinosaur replicas, attend shows and more. There is a petting zoo with goats and rabbits. The park has rides, games and outdoor trails that are perfect for all the family members to enjoy.
• Beach days. Rovinj's beaches offer clear, calm waters perfect for kids to splash around in. Popular family beaches include Cuvi Beach, a peaceful cove with playgrounds and seaside Mulini Beach. Many beaches have amenities like cafes, play areas and chair rentals for a comfortable beach day.
• Rovinj Heritage Museum. Rovinj Heritage Museum offers guided tours and kids' workshops focused on Rovinj's history. Kids can handle ancient coins, stone fragments, ceramics and more while learning about local art and culture. Temporary exhibits feature interactive and hands-on displays tailored for children and families.
• Family-Fun Boat Tours. Family-fun boat tours, from dolphin spotting cruises to swimming and snorkeling tours of nearby islands. Rovinj offers lots of family-friendly boating adventures catered to toddlers. Most tours include equipment. Knowledgeable guides ensure a safe, engaging experience for the whole family.

What are the best activities for a business traveler in Rovinj?

Listed below are the best activities for a business traveler in Rovinj.

• Tour the old town of Rovinj. Tour the old town of Rovinj, which features medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, galleries and cafes. It is a great way to experience the history and culture of Rovinj during small breaks from business meetings.
• Visit the Rovinj Heritage Museum. Visit the Rovinj Heritage Museum, which houses a valuable collection of art and exhibits that showcase Rovinj's rich history. It is an interesting cultural attraction to visit when looking to take a short break from work and meetings.
• Enjoy the views of Rovinj from the Church of St. Euphemia bell tower. Enjoy the views of Rovinj from the Church of St. Euphemia bell tower by climbing up the 60-meter bell tower, which provides excellent panoramic views over the red rooftops of Rovinj's old town and the surrounding islands and sea. It is a nice spot to consider that is away from business obligations.
• Sample local cuisine and wines. Sample local cuisine and wines as Rovinj has an excellent culinary scene with many restaurants serving high-quality Istrian dishes and wines. Trying the regional specialties is a great way to experience local culture during off-hours from conferences or meetings.
• Relax at the Golden Cape Forest Park. Relax at the Golden Cape Forest Park, which is close to Rovinj and offers pleasant walking, cycling and swimming opportunities. It is an ideal place to spend free time relaxing in nature in between business commitments.

Where is Rovinj?

Rovinj is located on the west coast of the Istrian peninsula in western Croatia , on the shore of the Adriatic Sea. Its geographic coordinates are 45°5′0′′N 13°38′0′′E. Rovinj is 5 kilometers (22 miles) south of the regional capital Poreč. It is 50 kilometers (31 miles) north of Pula, the largest city in Istria. The distance from Rovinj to Croatia's capital, Zagreb, is 250 kilometers (155 miles)

Rovinj makes an excellent base to explore Istria's oceanside resorts or the peninsula's scenic interior. Its proximity to both sloping landscapes and medieval hill towns provides easy day trip access. Rovinj sits just across from Italy on the Adriatic, with Venice, which is 200 kilometers (120 miles) away over sea and land.

What is the history of Rovinj?

The history of Rovinj dates back to prehistoric times when it was inhabited by the Histri tribe. It was later ruled by the Romans, Byzantines, Franks, Venetians and Austro-Hungarians over the centuries. Rovinj was an island up until 1763 when the channel separating it from the mainland was filled in. Rovinj became an important fishing and maritime trade center during the Middle Ages and under Venetian rule. Rovinj's pivotal transformation came when it was annexed by the Republic of Venice in 1283. The Venetians developed Rovinj into an important maritime, trade and military center over the next five centuries, leaving a strong impression on architecture and culture. The 17th and 18th centuries represented an economic peak for Rovinj as a key Istrian port. Rovinj was part of Italy in the early 20th century before becoming part of Yugoslavia after WWII and eventually Croatia in 1991.

What language is spoken in Rovinj?

The main languages spoken in Rovinj are Croatian and Italian. This is due to its long history of Venetian rule and proximity to Italy. Many locals are bilingual and street signs/menus often feature both languages. Italian is widely understood and visitors from Italy make up a large portion of tourists.

What time zone is Rovinj in?

Rovinj is located in the Central European Time (CET) zone, with a standard time defined as UTC+1. This means it is 1 hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time. The Internet Assigned Numbers Authority identifier for Rovinj's time zone is “Europe/Zagreb”. Rovinj observes Daylight Saving Time (DST) during the summer months. On the last Sunday of March, clocks are moved forward by 1 hour to UTC+2, switching the time zone to Central European Summer Time (CEST).

How many people live in Rovinj?

Rovinj is a small coastal city in Croatia with a population of 12,968 residents. This population breakdown shows that 11,629 residents live in the city proper, with the remainder in the outlying area of Rovinjsko Selo. Rovinj's population peaked historically at 13,160 in 1910 and declined in the subsequent decades. The population had fallen to 8,589 due to war losses and migration. The population recovered, reaching 14,294 by 2011 before falling again to the current level.

What are the most interesting facts about Rovinj?

Listed below are the most interesting facts about Croatia and Rovinj .

• Currency. The currency adopted in Croatia has been in Euro since January 01, 2023, replacing the Croatian kuna (HRK) as its official currency. 1 Euro is equivalent to about 7.5 kuna. Many shops, hotels and restaurants in tourist areas accept euros and you can get a better exchange rate by paying in kuna.
• Time Zone. The time zone of Split is in the Central European Time Zone, which is UTC+1. It is 6 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (EST) in the US.
• Language. The official language is Croatian. English is widely spoken in tourist areas. German and Italian are relatively common. Learning a few basic phrases in Croatian is appreciated by locals.
• Power Plugs. Rovinj's power plugs use a standard electrical voltage of 220-240V. Power outlets accept types C and F plugs with two round prongs. Travelers from North America will need an adapter and potentially a voltage converter.

How many days are needed to see Rovinj?

It is recommended to stay for 2 to 3 days, which is enough time to see the highlights of Rovinj.

Two to three days provide sufficient time to wander through the cobblestone streets of Rovinj's captivating old town, admire views from the hilltop Church of St. Euphemia, view sunsets along the harborfront, relax at nearby beaches and potentially take a day trip to Istrian destinations like Lim Fjord or Motovun. This number of days allows immersion into Rovinj and surrounding areas, including multiple day trips and time to sample local cuisine and culture. It enables an in-depth experience without a rush and gives maximum flexibility to experience sites in and around Rovinj fully.

Is Rovinj worth visiting?

Yes, Rovinj is worth visiting. It is located on Croatia's Istrian peninsula. This seaside town is a romantic old town with colorful houses, narrow cobblestone streets and lovely views of the Adriatic Sea. Rovinj's top attractions include the Church of St. Euphemia, the picturesque harbor, quiet beaches like Monte Beach and the lively main street, Grisia Street, which is lined with art galleries and shops. Rovinj makes an excellent base to explore Istria's vineyards, olive groves and scenic hill towns. Travelers will find Rovinj a rewarding place to visit for a few days. Rovinj should be on your itinerary when visiting Croatia.

Is Rovinj expensive to visit?

No, travelers can visit attractions like churches and parks for free or low cost, eat cheap meals from bakeries and markets and stay in private rooms instead of hotels. Mid-range travelers will be comfortable with €30 ($32, £26) to €60 ($64, £52) per day per person, including modest accommodations, admission tickets, meals at nice restaurants and a few splurges. Luxury seekers staying at high-end hotels can expect to spend over €91 ($100, £79) per day per person. Visiting Rovinj needs proper planning on accommodation and food. Budget-conscious travelers can still enjoy the city without breaking the bank. The expenses seem worth it to many visitors who want to see Rovinj's beautiful sites.

Is Rovinj safe to visit?

Yes, Rovinj is very safe to visit. The city has low crime rates and is considered safe for travelers. Violent crime is rare and petty crime aimed at tourists, like pickpocketing, does occur but is relatively uncommon. Rovinj's city center and attractions are well-lit and have a visible police presence. Basic precautions like being aware of your surroundings, not leaving belongings unattended and avoiding poorly lit areas at night will ensure your visit to picturesque Rovinj is trouble-free. The welcoming locals add to this beautiful coastal city's pleasant, safe atmosphere.

Is Rovinj easy to visit with kids?

Yes, Rovinj is easy to visit with kids. Rovinj features attractions like Punta Corrente Forest Park, Zlatni Rat Beach and Lone Bay Beach, which provide perfect spots for swimming and outdoor play. St. Euphemia's bell tower, Balbi's Arch and Batana Eco-Museum engage kids with legends, history and maritime culture. Rovinj's cobblestone streets are pedestrian-friendly to explore on foot or bike. Rovinj can be a great destination for families, though it may require some advanced planning.

What is Rovinj famous for?

Rovinj is famous for its remarkably well-preserved old town located on a peninsula on the Adriatic Sea. The old town features a trove of cultural attractions, including the Baroque-style Church of Saint Euphemia, whose imposing 60-meter bell tower is modeled after the bell tower in Saint Mark’s Square in Venice. Secondly, Rovinj is famous as it is home to Balbi's Arch, a historical stone archway adorned with a sculpture of a Venetian head on one side and a Turkish head on the other, paying homage to Rovinj's storied past. Lastly, Rovinj is renowned for its coastline, including the wooded Golden Cape Park with pine tree forests and pebbly coves along the shoreline.

What to eat in Rovinj?

Listed below are what you can eat in Rovinj.

• Crni rižot (Black risotto). Crni rižot is rich black risotto made by cooking arborio rice in squid ink, which gives it its signature black color. It is usually cooked in a seafood broth and mixed with chopped squid or shrimp. This black risotto is one of the delicacies in Rovinj and is one of the best food to eat in Croatia .
• Škampi na buzara (Langoustines with buzara sauce). Škampi na buzara features plump langoustines or Norway lobsters simmered in olive oil, garlic and white wines. Skampi na buzara is a popular dish popular in the country and in the city of Rovinj.
• Tartufi od kamenica (Oysters with truffles). Tarturi od kamenica is one of Rovinj's signature seafood appetizers that feature freshly shucked local oysters, raw on the half-shell, topped simply with paper-thin shavings of pungent white or black Istrian truffles.
• Janjetina ispod peke (Lamb under the bell). Janjetina ispod peke involves seasoning a whole baby lamb and placing it under an iron bell with potatoes and vegetables. It is then slow-cooked in a fire's embers for hours until unbelievably tender and infused with smoke. It is one of the popular Croatian dishes to try.

What are the best places to eat in Rovinj?

Listed below are the best places to eat in Rovinj.

• Monte. Monte is a Michelin-star restaurant run by chef Danijel Đekić is known for dishes that blend modern techniques with high-quality local ingredients in a converted 19th-century Istrian house. Monte enjoys a long-held reputation as the finest dining experience in Rovinj and one of the restaurants to eat in Rovinj.
• Maestral. Maestral is known for its casual vibe and al fresco seating on a scenic outdoor terrace. It specializes in simple, deliciously prepared seafood. The restaurant serves the fresh catch of the day grill. Maestral is one of the restaurants in the city of Rovinj that is a must-try for local and foreign visitors.
• La Puntulina. La Puntulna is located on a seaside cliff and is considered one of Rovinj's top restaurants that provide fine dining experiences. The contemporary seafood-focused dishes match the sublime water views from the restaurant's cascading terraced levels. The menu changes based on the freshest catch but always shines with dishes like bluefin tuna tartare, lobster linguine and salt-baked whole fish.
• Konoba Barba Danilo. Konoba Barba Danilo is run by the Leskovac family. The restaurant features a tavern that sits within the open-air Campsite Ulika. The place is known for preparing simple, exquisitely fresh takes on Istrian seafood and meat classics using high-quality ingredients. Reservation requests pile up and visitors rave about whole grilled fish shining with olive oil and lemon juice, shellfish buzara and steak with truffle sauce. The relaxed, welcoming atmosphere and personal attention from the passionate owners make dining there feel like eating at a friend's home. Kono is one of the restaurants in Rovinj that reflects the city’s hospitality and service.

What are the best areas to stay in Rovinj?

Listed below are the best places to stay in Rovinj.

• Rovinj Old Town. The Rovinj Old Town is located on a hilly peninsula and features winding cobblestone streets lined with houses, many dating from the medieval era. The neighborhood has bars, art galleries and restaurants tucked into every corner, making it the ideal place to stay for first-time visitors and safe for solo travelers who want to be close to attractions.
• South of Old Town. South of Old Town features a seaside promenade connecting to golden beaches, verdant parks perfect for recreation and landmark hotels. It offers a range of accommodations, restaurants and parks, making it ideal for a more relaxed stay while still being close to the city center. South of Old Town is generally safe with a more relaxed atmosphere, suitable for solo travelers looking for a peaceful stay.

What are the best accommodations to stay in Rovinj?

Listed below are the best accommodations to stay in Rovinj.

• Grand Park Hotel Rovinj. Grand Park Hotel brings 5-star luxury to the city with vistas of the old town, sleek modern design and superb amenities like a spa, pools, marina and six exceptional dining venues, cementing its reputation as one of Croatia's premier seaside escapes. The location makes it perfect for relaxation and it is one of the best hotels in Rovinj.
• Hotel Monte Mulini. Hotel Monte Mulini has 113 elegant quarters and suites along Rovinj's harborside. It has a private beach and upscale restaurants, making this 5-star hotel featuring contemporary styling influenced by Mediterranean style. It is located close to beaches and offers a relaxed atmosphere where families can unwind while conveniently near the city.
• Hotel Lone. Hotel Lone is Rovinj's first design hotel with artfully minimalist guestrooms and architecture that is within Golden Cape Park's verdant trees near delightful Lone Beach's crystalline waters. The 248 rooms and suites within this architectural marvel balance style and comfort, granting access to wellness amenities. It is an ideal choice for those wanting an authentic experience while having easy access to attractions. It is one of the recommended hotels to stay in Rovinj.

How to get to Pula Airport?

There are a few ways to get to Pula Airport. These are by airport shuttle bus, airport taxi or private share and ferry services (summer season only). Firstly, by airport shuttle bus, visitors can take the airport shuttle bus from the airport to Pula Bus Station (30 mins), then transfer to a regional bus from the station to Rovinj (1 hour). Secondly, for airport taxi or private share, visitors can book an airport taxi or private transfer service, which drives directly from Pula Airport to your location in Rovinj and takes 40 minutes, depending on the vehicle type. Lastly, by ferry services, during the summer season only, there are direct catamaran/ferry services from the Italian ports of Venice, Trieste and Cesenatico to the ferry port right in Rovinj's old town area. The most convenient transportation options for getting to Rovinj are a taxi/private transfer or an airport shuttle bus that takes 40 minutes in total.

How to get from Rovinj to Zagreb?

There are a few ways to get to Zagreb from Rovinj. These are by train, bus and car. Firstly, there is no direct train connection between Rovinj and Zagreb by train. The nearest train station to Rovinj is in Pula, which is a 30-minute drive away. Visitors can take a train to Zagreb, which would take 8 to 9 hours. Secondly, by bus, there are regular bus services between Rovinj and Zagreb operated by companies like Arriva, Brioni, Črnja Tours, Flix Bus and Croatia Bus.

Buses depart from Rovinj bus station to Zagreb's main bus station. The bus journey takes 3-5 hours, depending on the route and number of stops. Lastly, driving from Rovinj to Zagreb takes 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and routes. The most direct route is via highways A9 and A1 through Istria and inland through Croatia.

Where to go shopping in Rovinj?

There are several great places to go shopping in Rovinj. These are the Rovinj Old Town, Valdibora Market, Grisia Street, Lungomare Shopping Promenade and Konzum & Lidl. Firstly, the Rovinj Old Town features small artisan shops selling locally-made jewelry, artworks, traditional crafts and souvenirs. Secondly, Valdibora Market is a large open-air farmer's market on the edge of the historic old town, with colorful stalls selling fresh produce, fish, local delicacies like wine and olive oil and handicrafts. Thirdly, Grisia Street, known as the “artists' street”, a car-free street in the Old Town, is filled with galleries, boutiques and stalls selling paintings, jewelry, leather goods, ceramics and artisan creations. Fourthly, Lungomare Shopping Promenade has upscale fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, art galleries and souvenir shops. Lastly, Konzum & Lidl are practical supermarket chains located right at the entrance to Rovinj for all your daily grocery and essential needs.

What festivals or events are taking place in Rovinj?

Listed below are the festivals or events that are taking place in Rovinj.

• Rovinj Summer Music Festival. Rovinj Summer Music Festival is a music festival featuring jazz, classical and rock concerts. It is held from July to September each year in the city of Rovinj, with performances taking place at venues across Rovinj, including churches, squares and landmarks like the Rovinj Heritage Museum. It attracts thousands of attendees. Rovinj Summer Music Festival is one of the anticipated festivals in Croatia .
• Rovinj Photodays. Rovinj Photodays is an international photography festival held in early May annually in Rovinj. The main exhibition venue is the Rovinj Heritage Museum, located in the old town. It attracts photography enthusiasts from across the region and is held only in the city of Rovinj.
• Croatian Summer Salsa Festival. The Croatian Summer Salsa Festival is a week-long Latin dance festival held in June solely in Rovinj at the Istrian Sports Hall venue. It brings together over 3,000 salsa dancers and enthusiasts from around the world.
• Grisia Art Exhibition. Grisia Art Exhibition is an outdoor art exhibition that takes place every August. It is located on Grisia Street, which is in the old town of Rovinj. It turns this street into an open-air art gallery showcasing works from Croatian and international artists.
• Rovinj Night Market. Rovinj Night Market is a weekly summer night food and crafts market every Wednesday evening at the Rovinj Harbor, located right in the city. It features local Istrian food and craft vendors.
• Weekend Media Festival. Weekend Media Festival is the largest regional communications festival, held every September inside the Old Tobacco Factory building in Rovinj. It attracts over 6,000 media and marketing professionals from Croatia and neighboring countries.

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Things To Do in Rovinj, Croatia: A Complete Guide To Rovinj

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Rovinj, Croatia on the Istrian Peninsula is completely charming, stunningly beautiful, and an absolute gem to visit! The picture-perfect Adriatic seaside town beckons visitors with its alluring cobblestone lanes and stunning shoreline. 

The town of Rovinj itself is reason enough to visit, but there are a handful of attractions that are not to be missed. Our list of things to do in Rovinj covers the must-see sights – plus our top travel tips!

Rovinj: Croatia Top Destination

From the moment we arrived in Rovinj, we were completely captivated. It quickly became one of our favorite Croatia Destinations .

The Istria Peninsula hangs like a teardrop from Slovenia – and features a long western coast dotted with quaint towns and beautiful nature. Rovinj, Istria is located along that coastline, perched on a small headland in the Adriatic Sea. 

While the Rovinj Old Town is a highlight, there are many sights to see in and around the area. In fact, our guide of what to do in Rovinj, Croatia covers the best attractions in Rovinj Town and Istria.

Planning a Trip to Rovinj, Croatia

Visitors planning a Rovinj trip can use our list of Things To Do Rovinj to plan their day-by-day adventures. Additionally, we offer advice about where to stay, how to get there and other travel tips to enhance your holiday.

If you are traveling from abroad, then you will also want to read our Guide to Planning a Croatia Vacation . 

Our detailed Croatia 2 Week Itinerary and Croatia 7 Day Itinerary are also helpful for visitors planning their European Getaway .

When planning any trip, it is essential to stay organized. Our Travel Planner is a 26-page printable download that will help you stay on top of all your trip details!

Rovinj: FAQs and Travel Tips

Before we jump into our list of the top Rovinj things to do, there are a few frequently asked questions that we want to cover. We offer more tips for traveling to Rovinj – like the best hotels and how to get around – at the end of the article.

Where is Rovinj, Croatia?

Rovinj is located on the western shoreline of the Istrian Peninsula. It is 35 km (21 miles) north of Pula and 270 km (170 miles) west of Zagreb . 

We share tips on the best way to get to Rovinj in the last section of this post. 

How to Pronounce Rovinj?

Before you go to Rovinj, make sure you are pronouncing it correctly (or as best as possible)!

Although the J at the end can make it look like an intimidating word, it’s not that difficult to say. The simple Rovinj pronunciation is: RO-veen.

What is Rovinj Weather Like? 

Rovinj enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. On average, the summer months temps are around 80F, but in August, the temperature can reach 95F degrees. If you are still deciding when to go to Rovinj, we share the pros and cons of each season later.

Visit Piran, Slovenia or Rovinj, Croatia?

International travelers that are visiting both Slovenia and Croatia often decide to either visit Piran or Rovinj. While similar at first glance, both towns are unique and absolutely charming in their own way.

Read our guide of Things To Do in Piran and decide for yourself…maybe you will be convinced to visit both towns as we did! 

What is Rovinj, Croatia History?

Understanding a little about the history of Rovinj will help you better enjoy your time visiting the town.

Old Town Rovinj was originally an island – separated from the mainland by a narrow channel. Occupied since ancient times, Rovinj was conquered by the Romans, then ruled by the Byzantine Empire in the 6th century, followed by the Frankish Empire in the 8th century. The Republic of Venice took control in 1283 and held power until 1797.

Under the Republic of Venice, the island was heavily fortified with two stone walls surrounding it. The defensive structures kept attackers and illness (like the plague) out, which made Rovinj quite a desirable place to live. However, limited space on the island resulted in narrow streets and stacked housing.

In 1763, the channel was filled in and the island became part of the mainland. After the fall of Venice, Rovinj was shuffled to the Austro-Hungarian Empire until the end of World War I, when it became part of the Kingdom of Italy. In 1947, Rovinj was partitioned to Yugoslavia and eventually the Republic of Croatia in 1991.

Because of the intertwining history with Italy, there are strong Italian influences in Rovinj. In fact, it has two official languages: Croatian and Italian. As such, the town is named both Rovinj (Croatian) and Rovigno (Italian) – and many signs are displayed in both languages.

9 Best Things To Do in Rovinj, Croatia

Rovinj, Croatia holidays can be quiet and serene…or absolutely filled to the brim with activities. This Rovinj travel guide includes everything you need to know to plan your vacation – from must-see Rovinj sights to the best places to relax to exploration beyond the Rovinj Old Town. 

Save, Pin or Bookmark our Rovinj Travel Guide for your trip to Croatia!

#1 Explore Old Town Rovinj, Croatia

The Romantic Rovinj Old Town – a collection of pastel pink and yellow buildings – occupies a small peninsula that protrudes into the teal-blue Adriatic Sea. Twisting cobblestone lanes, polished by millions of footsteps, weave through the dense space and laundry hangs on lines overhead, crisscrossing between windows.

The quaint and attractive Old Town is a must see in Istria, Croatia. Rovinj sightseeing is best done on foot – most of the Rovinj streets in the Old Town are too narrow for cars, so the lanes are pedestrian only footpaths.

Visitors who want local insight can join a guide on a Rovinj Walking Tour ( read the reviews of this highly rated tour). Independent travelers can create their own self-guided free walking tour of Rovinj by simply wandering the picturesque streets.

Sightseeing Rovinj: What To See

There are a few Rovinj, Croatia Old Town sights that should not be missed. St. Euphemia Church is a must – and we detail it next on our list of the top Rovinj, Croatia things to do. That said, make sure to check out these sights, as well.

Balbi’s Arch

( Map ) Once an Old Town Gate, Balbi’s Arch (Balbijev luk) was built in 1678 and leads into the Old Town’s main street.

Rovinj Farmer’s Market

( Map ) The local Rovinj market is an interesting place to peruse fresh, in-season produce and other locally produced goods. Top sellers at the market in Rovinj are olive oil and truffles. 

Batana Eco-Museum

( Map ) A small museum near the Rovinj pier, Batana Museum is dedicated to Istria’s traditional wooden boat (the Batana) and the local fishing culture.

Rovinj Heritage Museum

( Map ) The Heritage Museum in Rovinj is a little hit or miss depending on the current exhibits. Still, we recommend swinging by while you are visiting Stari Grad Rovinj and see what special exhibitions are currently on display. 

#2 Visit the Iconic St. Euphemia Church and Bell Tower

Follow any of the Old Town Rovinj streets uphill and you will eventually arrive at St. Euphemia Church – the highest point in town. Completed in 1736, the church is dedicated to the patron saint of Rovinj, St. Euphemia, and houses her remains.

We detail the legend of the relics and more about climbing the bell tower of the Rovinj church in our St. Euphemia Church post.

Climb the Rovinj Bell Tower

One of the best things to do in Rovinj, Croatia is to take in the views…and there is no better place than from the top of the St. Euphemia Church bell tower. After climbing the rickety staircase, visitors are treated to phenomenal 360-degree panoramic views.

#3 Swim in the Adriatic Sea from Rovinj Beaches

The water that surrounds Rovinj is crystal clear. Under a shining sun, swimmers can clearly see several feet deep into the turquoise water, past their own toes as schools of fish swim by below. The sea water in Rovinj is especially salty, which helps to keep swimmers buoyant.

Bobbing in the Adriatic Sea on a hot summer day is one of the top things to do in Rovinj. All of the best beaches in Rovinj can be easily reached on foot or by taxi boat.

Rovinj Old Town Beaches

The beaches around the Rovinj Old Town are located on the southwestern side of the peninsula. These ‘beaches’ are a combination of rock and concrete, not sand. Swimmers can jump from the rocky edge into the deep, azure sea or use the paved steps and metal ladders bolted to the rocks to ease into the water.

Top Tip: Our favorite beach in Old Town Rovinj is Plaza Balota, pictured above. 

Mulini Beach, Croatia

Mulini Beach is located to the south of the Old Town, just past the marina, in front of 3 highly-rated hotels (more on where to stay in Rovinj at the end of the post).

Both concrete platforms and pebbles make up this stylish Rovinj beach location. Sun loungers and umbrellas are available for rent and there are beach bars and facilities on-site.

Golden Cape Beaches

South of Mulini Beach is the Golden Cape Forest Park (Zlatni Rt). The forested nature retreat features tranquil bays and hidden coves that are perfect for swimming.

On the north side of the park’s peninsula is Lone Bay, the Paradiso Beach Club, Dog Beach and an aquapark. On the south side is Golden Bay and Zlatni Rt Beach (which is not to be confused with the famous Zlatni Rat Beach on Brac Island, Croatia ).

Plaza Biondi Beach

Beach Biondi is north of Rovinj – but still within walking distance of the Old Town. There are a couple beach bars and some trees for shade, however, what makes it one of the best beaches in Rovinj is the excellent view of the pretty Old Town. 

Beaches on Islands Near Rovinj, Croatia: St. Katarina

More than 20 islands make up the Rovinj Archipelago – and many of them have stunning beaches.

St. Katarina Island, one of the largest islands in the archipelago, is just a stone’s throw from Rovinj. There are pebble beaches on the east end of the island near the Hotel Katarina ( check rates! ).

However, the rocks on the northwestern side – which rise nearly 50 feet from the water – are popular with cliff jumpers (but do so at your own risk!). Taxi boats are the best way to access St. Katarina.

#4 Feast on Amazing Croatian Food at Rovinj Restaurants

Even though it’s a small town, there are many restaurants in Rovinj, Croatia. Rovinj food is heavily influenced by Italy…and the sea. Most travelers to Rovinj will have no problem finding places to enjoy a wonderful meal!

Almost all Rovinj restaurants offer pastas, pizzas and seafood. Whole grilled fish, truffle pasta ( my favorite! ) and pizza with prosciutto are some of the regional Istrian specialties.

Best Restaurants in Rovinj, Croatia

Of the many places to eat in Rovinj, there is something to satisfy every palate; from posh eateries to family-run konobas along with fast food kiosks.

Fine Dining in Rovinj

For a romantic dinner, La Puntulina in Rovinj is a top pick! The restaurant overlooks the Adriatic Sea and features fresh seafood, savory steaks and an extensive wine list. Listed as a Michelin Guide recommended Rovinj restaurant, La Puntulina is often touted as the best restaurant in Rovinj.

Two other top-rated upscale eateries are Monte and Restoran Santa Croce (in the heart of the Old Town) as well as Tekka (Japanese) at Maistra Lone Resort and Wine Vault at Hotel Monte Mulini.

Rovinj Pizzerias

Rather than indulge in fine dining, however, we couldn’t resist the tempting pizzas. During our extended stay in Rovinj, anytime we started a conversation about where to eat in Rovinj, Croatia, we ended up at a pizzeria.

To be honest, we ate an embarrassing amount of pizza…but it’s okay, because pizza is one of the best things to eat in Rovinj!

Our favorite pizza restaurant in Rovinj is the slightly inconspicuous (but always crowded) Pizzeria Da Sergio ( Read Reviews! ).

Other pizza restaurants in Rovinj that we can recommend are Pian del Forno, Adria Pizzeria and Pizzeria San Giocomo.

Pro Tip: Looking for Rovinj nightlife? While the Old Town has heaps of sea view bars that are ideal for a drink at sunset (like Mediterraneo and Valentino), the best nightclub in Rovinj is Steel. 

#5 Sample Croatian Wine in Rovinj 

Istria has long been known as one of the best wine making regions in Croatia. In Rovinj, visitors can sample locally produced wine at shops, wine bars and restaurants.

That said, we think one of the fun Rovinj activities is sampling wine straight from the source…and there are wineries just a short distance from the Old Town where travelers can get a taste of the local product. 

Rovinj Wine Tasting Tour

Wine aficionados can join a guided tour of three wineries near Rovinj. The full day tour includes multiple tastings, olive oil tastings and a classic Istrian meal. Get the details and book your spot!

Alternatively, travelers who want to venture out on their own – without a car – can find wineries and wine tasting rooms in Rovinj. Follow in our footsteps and find nearby wineries on our Self Guided Rovinj Wine Walk . 

#6 Rent a Bike in Rovinj and Hit the Trails

The Istrian landscape is undeniably beautiful. With an entire network of intertwining trails, cycling in Rovinj is one of the best ways to explore beyond the Old Town. Read more about cycling and other adventures in our guide, Hiking and Biking in Rovinj .

North of Rovinj Stari Grad, there are paths that weave through forests and vineyards, past ancient structures and lead to nearby villages.

To the South, there are walking and biking paths at Zlatni Rt Forest Park. Active travelers should also head to the Punta Corrente challenge course located within the park.

Renting a Bike in Rovinj

There are several Rovinj bike rental companies where visitors can rent a bike for a couple of hours or a couple of days.

We opted for cheap bike rentals in Rovinj so that we could go on a bike ride through the countryside for just a few hours. However, there are Rovinj mountain bikes and ebikes tours for guest to join in as well!

#7 Watch a Sensational Sunset in Rovinj, Croatia

We have witnessed incredible sunsets around the world, but few have been as impressive as the sunsets in Rovinj. Each night, the sky put on a spectacular performance!

There are numerous places to watch the sunset in or near Old Town Rovinj – from atop the hill, down by the beach, along the pier – and each spot provided a unique vantage point and impressive view. Grab some wine, snacks and a towel and make your own sunset picnic in Rovinj!

Pro Tip: Track down all our favorite spots in our guide to the Best Places to Watch Sunsets in Rovinj.

#8 Set Sail on Rovinj Boat Trips

Hop on a boat for a day out on the Adriatic Sea! Boat trips from Rovinj are a fantastic way to see more of the coastline and region. Boat operators offer a range of tour options – from a couple hours aboard to all day adventures.

We enjoyed a leisurely afternoon aboard the Delfin; look for their booth by the pier south of the Old Town. Additionally, the following boat trips come highly recommended by fellow travelers. 

Lim Fjord Boat Trip

One of the most popular boat tours in Rovinj is a 7-hour cruise that features stunning scenery and two swimming stops. The journey navigates to the Lim Channel Fjord and around nearby Rovinj islands. Guests are treated to an included breakfast and lunch with unlimited drinks. Read the Rave Reviews!

Rovinj Boat Tours To Venice, Italy

Did you know there are day trips from Rovinj to Venice? Depart from Rovinj and spend 3 hours crossing the Adriatic Sea to Venice, Italy on a one-day trip.

Boats depart early in the morning and dock in Venice around 11:00am. Day trip visitors have about 6 hours to explore the canals and bridges on their own before cruising back to Rovinj in time for dinner.

Top Tip: This journey can be booked as a full day trip or as a one-way ticket if Italy is the next stop on your travel itinerary. Get all the details!

Sunset Cruise with Swimming and Dolphin Spotting

Hop aboard a sunset cruise and keep your eye on the horizon for dolphins! This highly-rated cruise sails around the Rovinj archipelago and allows time for swimming in the Adriatic Sea. Find out more!

Kayak Rovinj

Active travelers can explore the Adriatic Sea by kayak. Single and double kayaks can be rented for self-exploration or with a tour guide. Kayakers can paddle to nearby islands, like St. Katarina, or along the coastline all the way to the Lim Fjord.

Alternatively, join a Rovinj Archipelago kayak tour for a guided experience. Learn more here!

Rovinj Snorkeling and Cliff Jumping

Take a half-day trip and go snorkeling in Rovinj! Popular snorkel trips stop at two islands: St. Andrew’s Island (also known as Red Island) and either Pisulj or Sestrice. Each stop lasts for two hours, allowing for plenty of time to go swimming, snorkeling and jumping! Book your Spot!

Brijuni National Park

The Brijuni Islands are just off the coast of the Istrian Peninsula near Pula, which is south of Rovinj. Boat trips take visitors to the iconic offshore islands, which were once owned by Yugoslavian President Tito (and used it for his collection of exotic animals).  See Tour Options !

#9 Discover More of Istria on Day Trips from Rovinj

Excursions from Rovinj are not only by sea; there are many options for fantastic Rovinj day trips on land, too!

Istria is diverse and the landscape is stunning. The best day trips from Rovinj are to historic coastal towns, lovely hilltop villages and gastronomy adventures.

Top Tip: Both organized and DIY Rovinj day tours are options. While the local buses are fantastic for getting between major Istrian cities – like Rovinj to Pula – they are not as useful for getting to the hilltop towns. Visitors who drive to Rovinj – or rent a car for more than one day – should be aware that parking in Rovinj is very limited and expensive in the summertime.

Best of Istria Day Trip

Combine all of the Istrian highlights into a full day tour from Rovinj! We hired a private car and driver for our Istria day trip, but travelers with their own vehicle can devise their private day trip or avoid the hassle and join one of the organized Istria tours ( Get Tour Specifics! )

Highlights of an Istria Day Trip itinerary are tasting local truffles (we also included truffle hunting in Paladini at Karlic Tartufi), brandy tasting (we stopped at Aura in Buzet), sightseeing in the famous Croatian hilltop town of Motovun and visiting the seaside port of Porec (home to the UNESCO-listed Euphrasian Basilica).

Day Trips to Croatian Seaside Towns

While a full day tour of Istrian sights is a fun Rovinj day trip, it can also be a really long day, with relatively short stops. Instead, visitors can plan several of their own, leisurely day trip adventures to nearby Istrian coastal cities of Porec, Pula, Vrsar and Umag. 

Porec and Pula are the two most popular coastal Istria destinations for day trips from Rovinj. Both cities can easily be reached by bus from Rovinj, making it simple for travelers without a car to explore the top Istria day trip destinations. 

Day Trip from Rovinj to Pula

Pula is the busy port city of Istria – but the Old Town has numerous Roman ruins and ancient architecture, too. The 1st century Arena is a highlight of any trip to Pula, but there are many other attractions to see.

Getting to Pula from Rovinj is easy by public bus. There are numerous departures daily and the ride is about 40 minutes from Rovinj – leaving plenty of time to explore Pula. Get all the details of what to see in our complete guide of Things To Do in Pula .

Use this link to Google for an online map of Rovinj. Visitors can pick up a Rovinj tourist map from the Tourist Information Center.

Top Rovinj Travel Tips

Now that you know what to see and do in Rovinj, Croatia, we have a few more tips that will help you plan your trip. 

Read our complete Guide to Croatian Vacations and jump over to our Croatia Travel Page for more detailed articles and our best advice.

Accommodations in Rovinj, Croatia

There are numerous choices when it comes to places to stay in Rovinj, Croatia. The types of accommodation in Rovinj range from luxury resorts to campsites. When deciding where to stay in Rovinj, guests need to consider location, amenities and budget. 

We think the best place to stay in Rovinj is in the Old Town – and there are centrally located accommodations right in the heart of Rovinj. It can, however, be noisy in the Old Town at night (and wooden shutters do little to block the sound). Some of the top-rated hotels and a slew of holiday rentals are available outside the Old Town, too.

Rovinj, Croatia Hotels

There are top-rated hotels in Rovinj in the Old Town and on the beach. For summertime travel, it’s ideal to book Rovinj, Croatia hotels in advance…as the best places do book up completely!

Check prices and availability for these Old Town accommodations on Booking.com  – but before you make a Rovinj booking, be sure to read our tips on The Best Hotels at the Best Price . 

Old Town Rovinj Hotels

Looking for a hotel in Rovinj Old Town? We are featuring a few of the highly-rated old town hotels in Rovinj that you may want to book for your vacation. 

The Melegran : A 4 start hotel in the very heart of Rovinj, The Melegran stands out for the exceptional service and hip, retro design. Check rates!

Hotel Adriatic : A luxury boutique hotel in the center of the Old Town, Rovinj Hotel Adriatic for the modern decor and hearty breakfast. Check availability!

Hotel Casa Garzotto : A historic hotel with character and style, Hotel Casa Garzotto also offers a buffet breakfast and free bicycle rentals. Book it here!  

Spirito Santa Palazzo Storico Hotel: An elegant property that retains historic aspects of the building, Spirito Santa Palazzo Storico gets rave reviews for the charming ambiance and comfortable rooms. Book it now!

Rovinj Beach Hotels

Is a beach holiday more your style? Read reviews and check rates of the top beach hotels in Rovinj.

Hotel Eden Rovinj: The Eden Hotel overlooks the beach and bay near Golden Cape Park. It has both indoor and outdoor pools and free beach chairs and umbrellas for guests. The property features an on-site spa and included breakfast. Check rates!

Grand Park Hotel Rovinj: Situated at Mulini Beach, the 5-Star Grand Park Hotel earns rave reviews from travelers. Modern and elegant, the hotel has an on-site pool, spa and a private marina. Check Rates!

Hotel Amarin Rovinj: The beachfront Family Amarin Hotel is located north of Rovinj. All meals are included and the resort complex features 4 pools and a spa. Check rates!

Hotel Lone Rovinj : A 15 minute walk from the historic old town, Hotel Lone offers guests a beachside retreat. Guests particularly like the included breakfast, spacious rooms and amazing terrace. Book it here!

Hostels in Rovinj, Croatia

There are far fewer Rovinj hostels than hotels and apartments. Actually, when we last checked for Rovinj hostels, we couldn’t find a single one! Guests traveling to Rovinj on a budget should look for an affordable vacation rental. 

Rovinj Holiday Apartments

There are many (many, many ) holiday apartments for rent in Rovinj. During our stay, we rented an adorable apartment in Old Town Rovinj that we found on Airbnb . The apartment had a small kitchen and living space with a separate bedroom and shutters that opened onto an idyllic cobblestone lane. We absolutely loved the location!

We often choose to stay in apartments rather than hotels, as they usually have more space and a kitchen (and the cost of eating out in Rovinj can really add up!). There are many places to find rentals – including Airbnb and Booking.com .

Camping in Rovinj

Visitors who want to go camping in Rovinj have a few options, mostly on the outskirts of town. Amarin Campsite and Polari Campsite are two options. Camping Vestar Rovinj offers on-site mobile home rentals, too.

How To Get to Rovinj, Croatia

Getting to Rovinj takes a little effort – but is completely worth it! Travelers typically arrive by their own car, or take a boat or bus.

Fly to Rovinj

There is no Rovinj airport. The nearest airport to Rovinj is in Pula, which is about a 40-minute drive from Rovinj. Flights are seasonal, but in the summertime several airlines serve Pula airport (PUY) from major European destinations (like London , Frankfurt and Amsterdam ).

Start your search for the best prices on flights to Rovinj on SkyScanner .

Visitors can book private transfers from the Pula Airport to Rovinj online . (One-way airport transfers to Rovinj are also possible from the Zagreb Airport and the Venice Airport .)

Bus to Rovinj

There are numerous bus routes from Croatia destinations to Rovinj – but not many are direct.

That said, the Rovinj bus station is located just outside the Old Town. When we use public buses in Croatia, we check for routes on Bus Croatia and again at the actual bus station.

Ferries to Rovinj

Just like flights, ferry service to Rovinj is also seasonal – and quite limited even in the summertime.

There are 4 ferry companies that run routes to Rovinj from destinations in Italy (Venice, Trieste and Cesenatico), Slovenia (Piran) and Croatia (Mali Losinj). You can check Rovinj ferry schedules here .

How To Get Around Rovinj

The best way to get around Rovinj Old Town and to nearby beaches is on your own two feet! 

That said, with a car rental, visitors will have the ability to explore much more of the Istria region. Just be aware that many towns in Istria are pedestrian only (just like Rovinj). Parking lots are typically found on the outskirts of the towns and most require a fee (which can sometimes be quite pricey!). 

Top Tip: If you do plan on getting a rental car for your trip, be sure to read our Tips for Best Rates on Rentals first. 

When To Go to Rovinj

Rovinj, Croatia is an extremely season destination – and there are pros and cons to visiting in every season. 

Summer in Rovinj

Summertime is the high season in Rovinj. The hot weather is ideal for long days on the beaches and everything – restaurants, bars, shops and tours – is open for summer visitors. 

That said, the high-season prices for accommodations can easily double – and often triple – from off-season pricing. Furthermore, by mid-day, it is often too hot for sightseeing and crowds in Rovinj can be stifling in the summer season.

Spring and Autumn

The spring and autumn mark the shoulder season for Rovinj. While some shops and restaurants are closed, the Rovinj weather is typically cooler (but usually warm enough to still spend time on the beach) and there are fewer fellow tourists. 

Prices for hotels and restaurants may be lower, but as the shoulder season becomes a more popular time to visit, some places don’t lower prices until the off season. 

Rovinj Winter

Visiting Rovinj in the wintertime during the off season isn’t for everyone. The town is quiet with very few tourists and only a few cafes, restaurants and bars open. 

However, the sun still shines during the winter months in Rovinj and prices are rock bottom. 

What to Pack for Your Trip to Rovinj, Croatia

Now that we have covered what to do, where to stay and how to get to Rovinj – it’s time to pack! For a relaxing Rovinj vacation, you won’t need much! However, you will want to  make sure to pack  these items in  your suitcase  for your trip.

Rovinj Beach Necessities

In addition to your swimsuit , be sure to pack sunscreen (it can be really expensive in Croatia…especially on the seaside!). It’s also a good idea to bring a wide-brimmed travel hat to keep the sun off your face and polarized sunglasses .

Water shoes are recommended for most of the beaches in Croatia; not only are the pebbles uncomfortable to walk on, but much of the coastal water is home to spiky sea urchins!

Walking Shoes

Walking the stone lanes in Rovinj requires a good pair of travel shoes ! Make sure to pack shoes that have a good sole and are comfortable for walking. I wear versatile sneakers on our trips and Kris wears Merrell trail shoes. 

Of course, you will want to pack a pair of flip flops for the beach, too!

Travel Camera for Rovinj Photography 

Capture the beauty of Croatia with an actual camera (instead of just your phone). We always use a Canon Rebel with an 18-135mm lens , which takes incredible photos. Travelers who want a slimmer and lighter camera might want to invest in a Canon Powershot , which is a great budget camera we also use when sightseeing.

The Adriatic Sea has incredibly clear water, which is perfect for underwater photography! Don’t forget your GoPro (or a less expensive action camera ) for pictures under the sea!

And, of course, keep your phone and small camera safe and dry with a Sea To Summit waterproof pouch !

Day Pack for Rovinj

You will also want to pack a great day bag for your Rovinj trip. Whether just going to the beach or setting off on all day excursions, you need a place to stow your wallet, keys, camera, sunscreen and all your everyday travel essentials !

Travel Insurance for your Trip to Croatia

Trip insurance may cover flight delays and lost baggage , as well as injuries and illnesses abroad . Find affordable rates and coverage at World Nomads .

Start planning your trip to Croatia ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

More Travel Resources

Visiting other Incredible Croatia Destinations ? Fantastic! We’ve got everything you need to know!

• 2 Week Croatia Itinerary
• Best Things To Do in Hvar
• 7 Day Croatia Itinerary
• What To See in Korcula
• Top Dubrovnik Things To Do
• Things To See in Split
• Best Attractions in Zagreb

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Rovinj, Croatia: An Expert Travel Guide!

Rovinj is a charming port town on the west coast of Istria and definitely one of the most beautiful places in Croatia! No longer an insider tip, visitors come from all over the world to marvel at this magical highlight. Especially fascinating is the old town of Rovinj , which is picturesquely located on a small peninsula. With the countless colorful houses, it creates a breathtaking ambience. However, during a visit, there are many more fantastic things to do in Rovinj! The charming waterfront with the lovely cafés, the beautiful harbor, the idyllic beaches and the offshore islands are just a few of the attractions to visit. But what are the must-see places in Rovinj, what are the best attractions and the best tips for your trip?

In this travel guide, you will find all the important information on Rovinj in Croatia! In addition, we show you the best things to do in Rovinj, the most beautiful pictures, reveal real insider tips and where you can find wonderful accommodations.

Good to know!

If you are still looking for a fantastic accommodation in Rovinj, we can recommend families the Family Hotel Amarin nand couples the gorgeous Hotel Lone in a perfect location.

Not only the old town of Rovinj is fascinating, but also the breathtaking beaches in Rovinj and its surroundings make this coastal town a popular vacation spot in Istria.

Thanks to its central location, Rovinj is the perfect starting point to experience many of the most amazing attractions in Istria . Another reason why this coastal town is so popular!

In Rovinj there are also many remarkable campsites ! Especially recommended is the campsite Vestar, with a pool and where there are also great mobile homes .

General Information about Rovinj

Rovinj in Croatia, a town of about 15,000 inhabitants, is located on the west coast of Istria, about 35 kilometers from Pula and 32 kilometers from Poreč . Famous is Rovinj for its old town, as it is one of the most stunning landmarks of the Istrian peninsula and one of the most beautiful attractions in Croatia! During a visit, you can expect many cultural attractions , fabulous restaurants , a lively nightlife with chic bars and wonderful boutiques to do some shopping and stroll around. The accommodations in Rovinj are also phenomenal and promise unforgettable vacations on the Adriatic Sea. Moreover, the surroundings are worth seeing because right in the vicinity you will find numerous possibilities for activities and excursions from Rovinj.

In its original form, Rovinj had once been its own island, which got connected to the mainland in 1763. Today, you stroll along a beautiful peninsula with the old town stretching high up on a hill. The town is dominated by the Church of St. Euphemia, the symbol of Rovinj, which is located at the highest point, wherefrom you can also enjoy the most magnificent view points . Absolutely stunning are the 22 islands and islets that lie off the coast and give the harbor town an extra dose of charm! A real highlight is also the Golden Cap, a nature park where countless dream beaches and fantastic cycling and hiking trails are located.

Best Things to Do in Rovinj

There is plenty to discover on a trip to Rovinj, as every corner hides a new highlight and a pretty attraction. One day in Rovinj should be enough to explore the historic old town. However, it is worth staying longer to make the most of your visit. Here is a comprehensive list of the best things to do in Rovinj , which you shouldn’t miss during your stay.

Rovinj Old Town

The beautiful old town of Rovinj is definitely the main attraction of the coastal town. Together with the picturesque waterfront promenade, it forms the vibrant center where you will find countless restaurants , cafés , and bars as well as fine boutiques and small art galleries. Situated on a peninsula, the old town stretches up a hill and this creates an exceptionally charming backdrop. The colorful houses are built closely together, and narrow romantic alleys lead from the sea up to the top of the old town.

On the way, you will discover interesting attractions, a charming square or a great viewpoint almost at every corner. Also interesting are Rovinj’s characteristic chimneys, which are considered a special feature of this coastal town. Thanks to its rich historical and cultural heritage, the old town was declared a cultural monument in 1963 .

Port of Rovinj

A must-see in Rovinj is the romantic fishing harbor , which is located directly in front of the old town and, together with the colorful town houses, conjures up a terrific motif for photos. Walking along the harbor promenade, you will experience a quiet, authentic flair, and you will have the opportunity to watch the fishermen at work. Boat rentals and excursion boats are also available here, waiting to discover the island world off Rovinj with tourists. A highlight is furthermore the cozy cafés and small bars, which are located along the harbor and where you can admire the beautiful ambience with a cool drink.

Church of St. Euphemia

Probably one of the most famous things to do in Rovinj is a visit to the Church of St. Euphemia , also known as Sveti Eufemija. It is located at the highest point of the historic old town, and its 60-meter-high bell tower rises high above the landscape. This baroque structure was built in 1725 in the Venetian style, although the tower is 70 years older and was modeled after St. Mark’s Church in Venice. The most interesting thing is the spire, where the copper statue of St. Euphemia is located. Still, the interior of the church, where you can see various altars and precious paintings, is also worth a look. Also worth seeing is the small park with the café opposite, from which you have a unique panorama over the coast.

Tip : Not only is the church worth seeing, but also the view of Rovinj is unique from up here! Many visitors love to come in the evening to enjoy the sunset .

Main Square & Clock Tower

The most beautiful square in the center of Rovinj is the main square , Trg Marsala Tita, with its impressive clock tower . The tower was built as early as the 12th century as part of the southern defensive fortifications and has been renovated several times over the years. On the facade of the historic clock, you can still see the winged St. Mark’s lion, the trademark of Venice. Once a prison, the building now houses a currency exchange office and the city’s tourist information center. Amazing are also the countless romantic cafés located in the almost 1000-year-old main square, which invite to take a nice sightseeing break.

Tip : Opposite the clock tower is the Hotel Adriatic , an astonishing 4-star hotel that delights with a dreamlike atmosphere and the delicious breakfast on the square!

Rovinj Waterfront

The picturesque waterfront promenade is the absolute highlight of the coastal town, and a walk is almost a must on any city tour through the center. It starts far before the forest park and leads past the romantic harbor to the old town, where you can enjoy a fantastic view of the colorful houses from the jetty. Along the promenade there are lovely little boutiques and galleries as well as cozy cafés and restaurants with enchanting sea views, which invite to linger.

Tip : A real insider tip for a vacation in Rovinj is the Apartment Mediterraneo , which is located directly in the stunning old town and on the picturesque promenade.

City Beach Baluota

The beautiful Baluota Beach offers a breathtaking backdrop. This small city beach is located directly below the historic walls of the city center and enchants with a breathtaking ambience of turquoise sea colors and the old stone houses of Rovinj in the background. A visit in the evening during sunset is definitely one of the best things to do in Rovinj, when the sky displays the most beautiful shades of red, and you can experience the play of colors together with other vacationers.

Tip : Only 100 meters from the beach is the La Casa Isabella , a lovely apartment which scores with top facilities and a fantastic location in the old town.

Rovinj Heritage Museum

The Rovinj Heritage Museum is an interesting attraction to visit in the old town of Rovinj. Founded in 1954 and housed in a 17th-century Baroque palace, it contains a valuable collection of artifacts . This museum mainly exhibits both contemporary art and collections of the old masters. Archaeological finds and old books, documents and photographs can also be seen here. Also of interest is the scientific library, which is equipped with more than 30,000 books.

Beach Bars & Nightlife

Rovinj is well-known for its beautiful sunsets and for the cool beach bars that have settled right on the rocky coast of the old town. With relaxed chill-out music and romantic ambience, you can start in a vibrant nightlife. Really recommendable is for example Mediterraneo Cocktail Bar , a real insider tip for cocktail lovers. Valentino, a cool sunset bar , which amazes with an ingenious location and a fantastic view, is also great.

The Golden Cap

Breathtakingly beautiful is the Golden Cap , a picturesque forest park with stunning beaches , located not far from the old town of Rovinj. This picturesque natural park lies in the south of the town, near the ACI Marina and stretches out over a boot-shaped peninsula into the sea. Particularly wonderful are the pine, cypress and laurel forests, some of which are over 100 years old. Also many exotic plants like Gingko and Eucalyptus were planted here and can be admired today during a walk through the charming avenues.

Pretty are also the small bicycle and hiking trails that lead through the park and lead you the way to hidden little bathing bays. The Golden Cap is one of the most beautiful forest parks in Croatia and a visit should not be missed during your trip to Rovinj.

Tip : In the middle of the Golden Cape nature park is the modern Hotel Lone , which delights with a great location and wellness area.

Local Market

The local market is a wonderful, authentic attraction that makes Rovinj so special. This market is located directly in the northern city center, only about 100 meters from Tito Square. Every day this charming weekly market offers fresh fish, fruit and vegetables as well as regional delicacies such as cheese, asparagus, mushrooms, liqueur and olive oil. Right next to it is a really cool wine bar where visitors enjoy the hustle and bustle with a glass of Istrian wine.

Tip : The local market in Rovinj takes place daily, from Monday to Sunday, until about 12:00. Some market stalls are open longer, especially in the high season.

The Beaches in Rovinj

Not only the attractions are fantastic, but also the beaches in Rovinj and in the area around are impressively beautiful! Many visitors are surprised by the beautiful beach opportunities that are located right near the city. Most of them are fine pebble coves surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation with beautiful turquoise sea colors . A lot of the best bays are located in the forest park of the Golden Cap, but also further south, on the offshore islands and even in the old town you can find really fantastic beaches, which are perfect for a vacation in Rovinj.

ACI Marina Rovinj

The ACI Marina Rovin j is the large marina next to the coastal town and can of course also be visited by tourists. Strolling along the newly built promenade, one is amazed by the huge boats and yachts anchored in the harbor. From the complex you also have a spectacular view of Rovinj and the island Katarina. The new Grand Park Hotel Rovinj is also located directly at the marina. It is one of the absolute best hotels in the city and is also a real eye-catcher.

The Islands of Rovinj

The island world around Rovinj is absolutely impressive. 22 islands and islets lie offshore in the sea and enchant with unique beauty and magnificent nature. The largest of these islands is the Red Island, Crveni Otok , with an area of 23 hectares. It actually consists of two islands, the island of Maškin and Sveti Andrea, where there is even a Benedictine monastery and a small castle. Very close to Rovinj is the famous island Katarina , which shows off its Mediterranean gardens and magnificent flora. The view of the old town here is also breathtaking and a real highlight.

Tip : Recommended for a beach vacation is the Island Hotel Katarina , which is best suited for a quiet stay. Own taxi boats take you directly to the old town.

Palud Bird Park

A real insider tip in Rovinj, not everybody knows about, is the beautiful bird park Palud . In the nature park, you have the opportunity to explore the idyllic bird sanctuary via several hiking trails . Among other things, you will discover a lake with a huge reed belt, which is home to countless bird species. Also beautiful natural bathing bays along lonely the coast invite to spend relaxing days on the beach. A real insider tip for all nature lovers.

Day Tours from Rovinj

Not only Rovinj is worth seeing, but also in the surrounding area there are many possibilities for excursions and activities . So you can discover many beautiful attractions during your vacation nearby. Here are the best day tours and things to do near Rovinj:

Very worth seeing coastal towns near Rovinj are the famous towns of Porec , Novigrad and Vrsar but also the famous port city of Pula is only 35 kilometers away.

The inland with the many mountain villages is also worth a trip. Especially charming are Motovun , Grožnjan , Buje as well as Hum , the smallest town in the world.

Other beautiful excursion destinations are the Baredine Cave , a huge stalactite cave and the ruined town of Dvigrad , which can be reached via a bike path but of course also by car.

Where to Stay in Rovinj

In Rovinj there is a huge range of fantastic accommodation options . From budget vacation rentals to B&Bs and boutique hotels with pools, you’ll find it all. If you are looking for a recommendable place to stay, then we can give you these accommodation tips for Rovinj along the way… It’s worth a look!

• Family Hotel : The Family Hotel Amarin enchants with beautiful rooms, perfect facilities and their pools. Also the offer for children’s programs is outstanding here!
• Hotel in the Old Town : The Melegran is an insider tip inside the old town. Beautifully situated in the winding alleys, this boutique hotel enchants with an extra dose of charm.
• Nice B&B : The bed and breakfast Villa Dobravac is a nice and recommendable B&B only 500 meters from the beach and also not far from the old town.
• Apartments : The Apartments Figarola offer beautiful apartments in the best location directly by the sea and the beach. The perfect apartment for a beach vacation!

Find the best accommodation in Rovinj:

More about croatia:, top 10 amazing beaches in istria, the 8 best mobile homes in istria, 15 unique things to do in split, croatia, top 20 amazing things to do in dubrovnik, top 15 amazing things to do in zadar, umag, croatia: travel guide & things to do, keep exploring.

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Rovinj Islands and the Coastal Area

These natural landscapes belong to the category of 'landscapes of outstanding value'. One should not be surprised to learn this, as the indented coast, holm oak, Alpine and Bruce pine forests and the special agricultural spaces amaze and capture by their beauty and level of preservation. This 'landscape of outstanding value' stretches from St. John's Cape (Rt Sv. Ivana) to Barbariga and encompasses all twenty or so Rovinj islands and islets and the coastal area up to the distance of 500 m from the coastline. The St Andrew Island (Otok Sv. Andrija), occupying an area of 23 hectares, is the largest island of the Rovij archipelago, followed by the beautiful St. Catherine's Island (Otok Sv. Katarine), a true rarity in terms of vegetation. Botanists have recorded as many as 456 plant species there.

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