Istria
The Istrian peninsula offers stark contrasts: The inner area is untouched and mountainous with very old walled cities on hills with adjacent rich fields, whilst the coast has numerous beaches -do not expect any sand in them, though- and amazing scenery of rocky walls dipping into the sea. The Istrian shoreline is arguably the most urbanized tourist target in Croatia. Hordes of Italian and French tourists enjoy package tourism during the packed high season.Although Pula is the main town, according to population and culture, relatively rural Pazin is the administrative hub of the peninsula. Istria is a fine province to practise hill-walking and biking, as much in the steep inland as on the shore. The Southern end of Istria is possibly the best place for biking.
How to reach to Istria
Pula is the central transportation hub for Istria so most people will get there there if they are not driving. Buses run from Trieste in Italy, Zagreb and other major cities to Pula in the South. Ryanair provides a connection London (Stansted) to Pula three times a week, and Dublin Pula also. Germanwings also serves Pula. Trains run daily between Ljubljana in Slovenia and Pula, and from Rijeka to Ljubljana. Unfortunately Venezia Lines is a high speed ferry operator. Operating in the North Adriatic, Venezia Lines links the North Adriatic's coasts of Italy and Croatia. In the North Adriatic Venezia Lines is at present utilising 2 vessels, San Frangisk and her sister vessel San Pawl, both with a capacity of 310 passenger. They are at present deployed on routes between Venice, Italy and the Croatian ports of Mali Losinj, Porec, Pula, Rabac and Rovinj.Tourist Sights in Istria
The old Venetian town of Rovinj. St Euphrasius Basilica in Poreč. Brijuni (Brioni) Islands - personal park of General Tito including an international zoo, dinosaur footsteps and Roman and Byzantine ruins. Hill-top villages of Groznjan and Motovun, populated by artistSs. brilliant frescoes of Our Lady of the Rocks chapel in Beram.Visit Lovran, Istria, near Opatija, for the Days of Cherries Festival in June. Motovun Film Festival, Motovun, Istria Visit Groznjan and its jazz Festival.
Istrian Cuisine
Istrian cooking is known by its huge diversity. With diversity at the heart of Istria, you’ll delight in new gastronomic experiences and reconnect with customary flavors.At the coast, fresh fish and seafood are a tradition. In the inland, air-cured pork (Prsut) and sausages are the highlights. But the culinary prize is no doubt the truffles. After the beginning of the season, in late September, truffles can be found accompanying any dish and sauce. Especially recommended is pasta with truffles. Also, olive oil with truffles is a typical produce of the region.
Istria Wines and Drinks
Regional liquor grappa is widely produced in here, with several varieties available.
Other destinations in Istria: Beram, Brijuni, Cape Kamenjak, Groznjan, Hum, Vrsar
