Trip to Rovinj in Croatia
The city of Rovinj is located on the Istrian Peninsula in Croatia, which is situated in the northwestern part of the country along the Adriatic Sea, between the Gulf of Trieste in Italy and Kvarner Gulf in Croatia.
Rovinj is the most beautiful and most visited town on the Istrian peninsula. Its old town was built on a small, rounded peninsula in western Istria, on the shores of the Adriatic Sea.
♦ Traveler info on the Istrian Peninsula in the article: The Traveler's Guide to the Istrian Peninsula Istria in Croatia
It is considered one of the most romantic towns in all of Croatia. The town features a marina, a fishing harbor, and several nearby small islands.
Recommended guided tours in Rovinj from Viator:
Throughout history, the town has experienced many events, struggles, wars, and diverse influences from its various conquerors. From the late 13th century to the end of the 18th century, the town was part of the Venetian Republic, and Italian influence remains dominant to this day. They were the ones who built the town's walls and gates, the remains of which can still be seen today. To this day, about a fifth of the town's residents are Italian, and their impact on local culture is particularly noticeable in the abundance of pizzerias and Italian restaurants alongside plenty of fish and seafood restaurants.
The best way to explore Rovinj is to get lost among the narrow, cobblestone alleys lined with pastel-colored ancient houses packed with art galleries, boutiques, delicatessens, cafes, and restaurants. The old town is pedestrian-only. You leave your car at the entrance to the old town in one of the large paid parking lots at the outskirts of the town.
For those interested in guidance and hearing about the rich history and culture of the town, it is highly recommended to join an approximately 1.5-hour guided walking tour of the old town, available on the reliable Viator website: group tour: Rovinj Walking Tours or private: PRIVATE Rovinj walking tour or a three-hour guided walking tour that also combines food: Rovinj Walking Food Tour, where you will stop for varied tastings of typical dishes with various influences at six different locations, as well as sample 3 types of wine along the way to enhance the atmosphere and mood.
It is also highly recommended to take a 1-2 hour boat cruise around the town, which provides an excellent perspective of the beautiful city as well as the nearby islands. Near the parking lot, there are numerous tourist boats offering various types of cruises. A sunset cruise is especially recommended. Rovinj is well known for its breathtaking sunsets.
One of the city's landmarks is the Baroque-style St Euphemia Cathedral, located in the old town on a hill near the waterfront. It features a tall bell tower that you can climb (stairs only), offering the most beautiful view of the city and the adjacent archipelago.
In Rovinj, there is a great farmers' market selling fresh fruits and vegetables, wine, olive oil, truffles, and local souvenirs.
Rovinj features wonderful beaches, especially in the hotel areas outside the old town. Many of these hotels offer a short ferry ride to the old town's marina.
A well-maintained bike path connects the beaches, so cycling enthusiasts are encouraged to rent a bicycle and ride along the scenic views of the sea, the island archipelago, and the old town panorama.
From Rovinj, it is recommended to take a trip and relax on "Red Island" Crveni Otok, which is not red at all and consists of two separate islands connected by a bridge: Sveti Andrija and Maskin. A 20-minute boat ride leads to pine-covered islands with small, secluded beaches ideal for children. There are no cars on the islands, making them pastoral and tranquil. On Sveti Andrija, there is a resort and a water sports center offering windsurfing and sailing lessons.
About 6 kilometers north of Rovinj is a long, narrow fjord called "Lim Fjord" - a long and narrow inlet set between steep hills that also functions as a fish and oyster farm. It is worthwhile to take a boat cruise from Rovinj deep into the fjord through impressive scenery, small coves, and oyster beds.
Short video about Rovinj:
Accommodation Recommendations in Rovinj:
Grand Park Hotel Rovinj
The newest and most luxurious five-star resort in Rovinj, the most beautiful and visited town in Istria.
Located on a wonderful beach overlooking Rovinj's old town and the nearby islands. The hotel offers three swimming pools (one indoor), a spa and fitness center, a marina, a kids' club, game rooms, water sports, and a wide selection of restaurants, bars, and shops. The hotel features rooms for 2-3 people as well as family rooms and suites for 4 people. Every room has a balcony or garden. Free Wi-Fi and parking.
Hotel Eden
A 4-star resort set on expansive grounds with a lovely beach in Rovinj, the most beautiful and visited town in Istria. Surrounded by lush greenery and bordering an ancient forest, the hotel features 3 swimming pools (including one indoor), a wellness and spa center, a fitness room, and sports facilities.
All rooms are air-conditioned and include a balcony. The hotel has several restaurants and bars, and offers various shows and activities for its guests. Accommodation options include rooms for 2-3 guests, as well as family rooms and suites for 4 guests. Free Wi-Fi and parking.
