Istria With Kids

Istria offers a delightful blend of activities for families, including beaches with crystal-clear waters, historical sites to explore, delicious local cuisine to savor, and outdoor adventures such as hiking and cycling. If you’re going on a Croatia family vacation, Istria may not even be on your radar. However, consider visiting Istria with kids for these reasons:

• Beautiful beaches: Istria has numerous beaches with crystal-clear waters, shallow swimming areas for kids, and various water sports activities.
• Family-friendly accommodations: Plenty of family-friendly accommodations are available, from hotels with kids’ clubs and playgrounds to apartments and villas with private pools and gardens.
• Cultural attractions: Istria has a rich cultural heritage, with historical sites, museums, and galleries that are fascinating for adults and children.
• Delicious cuisine: Istria’s cuisine is renowned for its fresh seafood, truffles, olive oil, and wine, making it a foodie’s paradise.
• Outdoor adventures: Families can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and zip-lining in Istria’s scenic countryside.
• Festivals and events: Istria hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, including music, film, and food festivals, which are fun for the whole family.

Things to Do in Istria With Kids

Here are some fun things to do in Istria with kids:

1. Visit the Pula Arena: This well-preserved Roman amphitheater in Pula offers an excellent opportunity to teach kids about ancient history.
2. Go to the beach: Istria has many beaches suitable for families with children, such as the Punta Verudela beach in Pula, which has a playground and other amenities.
3. Explore the Baredine Cave: Located near Poreč, the Baredine Cave is an underground wonderland filled with stalactites and stalagmites and offers guided tours for families.
4. Take a boat tour: Kids will love exploring the beautiful coastline of Istria on a boat tour, which typically includes visits to secluded beaches and hidden coves.
5. Visit the Dinopark Funtana: This theme park near Poreč is a perfect place for kids to learn about dinosaurs, with life-size models, interactive exhibits, and a playground.
6. Go on a cycling tour: Istria has many cycling trails suitable for families, including the Parenzana Trail, a former railway line that runs from Trieste in Italy to Poreč.
7. Visit the Aquapark Istralandia: This water park near Novigrad offers a range of water slides, pools, and other attractions, making it a perfect day out for families with kids.
8. Explore the charming towns: Istria’s towns are full of narrow streets, colorful buildings, and charming squares that kids love exploring, such as Rovinj, Motovun, and Grožnjan.

Where to Go in Istria With Kids

Here are some great places to go in Istria with kids:

1. Pula: Pula is a great city to visit with kids, with its impressive Roman amphitheater, aquarium, beaches, and parks.
2. Poreč: Poreč is another family-friendly destination in Istria, with its beautiful beaches, water sports activities, and family-oriented attractions such as the Dinopark Funtana.
3. Rovinj: Rovinj is a picturesque town with narrow streets, charming squares, and a beautiful harbor, which kids will love exploring.
4. Aquapark Istralandia: Located near Novigrad, Aquapark Istralandia is a water park with numerous slides, pools, and other attractions that are suitable for children of all ages.
5. Baredine Cave: Located near Poreč, Baredine Cave is a fascinating underground world of stalactites and stalagmites, which kids will enjoy exploring.
6. Kamenjak Nature Park: This beautiful nature reserve near Premantura has many secluded beaches, hiking trails, and bike paths, making it a perfect destination for families who love outdoor activities.
7. Motovun: Motovun is a charming hilltop town with a rich history and beautiful views, which kids will love exploring.
8. Zlatni Rt Forest Park: This park near Rovinj has many hiking trails, a beach, and a playground, making it a great place for families to spend a day outdoors.

Where to Stay in Istria With Kids

Here are some great places to stay in Istria with kids:

1. Family Hotel Amarin – This modern 4-star hotel is located in Rovinj. It offers spacious rooms and suites, multiple outdoor pools, a private beach, a kids’ club, and a range of activities for families.
2. Hotel Eden – This beachfront hotel in Rovinj offers comfortable rooms and suites, multiple outdoor pools, a kids’ club, and a range of sports and entertainment activities for families.
3. Valamar Isabella Island Resort – This island resort near Porec features luxurious rooms and suites, a private beach, multiple outdoor pools, a kids’ club, and various water sports activities.
4. Park Plaza Belvedere Medulin – Located in Medulin, this resort-style hotel features spacious rooms and apartments, multiple outdoor pools, a kids’ club, and a range of sports and entertainment activities for families.
5. Meliá Istrian Villas – This hotel in Umag offers spacious villas with private gardens, multiple outdoor pools, a kids’ club, and a range of activities for families.
6. Kempinski Hotel Adriatic – Located in Savudrija, this 5-star hotel offers luxurious rooms and suites, a private beach, a kids’ club, and a variety of water sports activities.
7. Family Hotel Laguna Park – Situated in Porec, this hotel is ideal for families with children of all ages, offering a kids’ club, an outdoor pool, and a playground.
8. Park Plaza Verudela Pula – This resort-style hotel is located in Pula. It features a variety of accommodation options, from studios to apartments, as well as a kids’ club, water sports activities, and multiple outdoor pools.
9. Sol Umag Residence – This family-friendly hotel in Umag offers spacious apartments, multiple outdoor pools, a kids’ club, and various sports and entertainment options.
10. Hotel Lone – Located in Rovinj, this modern 5-star hotel offers spacious rooms and suites, multiple outdoor pools, a private beach, a kids’ club, and a range of dining options, including a buffet restaurant and a la carte options.

All of these hotels offer excellent facilities and amenities for families, including kids’ clubs, swimming pools, and outdoor activities. They are also situated in some of the most beautiful areas of Istria and offer stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.

Where to Eat in Istria With Kids

Here are some great places to eat in Istria with kids:

1. Konoba Morgan: Located in Pula, this family-friendly tavern serves traditional Istrian cuisine, including grilled meats and seafood, pasta dishes, and pizzas.
2. Rovinj Market: This colorful market in Rovinj offers a range of fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables, which can be used to prepare a picnic or a family meal.
3. Konoba Batelina: Located in Banjole, this seafood restaurant serves fresh fish and seafood, which kids will love.
4. La Puntulina: This restaurant in Rovinj offers delicious pasta dishes, seafood, and pizzas, and has a beautiful terrace with stunning views of the sea.
5. Restaurant Alba: Located in Poreč, this restaurant serves traditional Istrian cuisine, including truffles, pasta dishes, and meat specialties.
6. Konoba Vela Nera: Located in Bale, this restaurant serves traditional Istrian cuisine, including grilled meats and fish, pasta dishes, and homemade desserts.
7. Nono Frane: This pizzeria in Pula offers a range of delicious pizzas, salads, and sandwiches, which kids will love.
8. Konoba Čok: Located in Medulin, this family-friendly restaurant serves grilled meats and fish, pasta dishes, and homemade desserts.

What to Wear in Istria

What to wear in Istria will depend on the time of year you plan to visit. Here are some general tips:

• Summer: In the summer months, from June to September, temperatures in Istria can reach up to 30°C, so it is recommended to wear light clothing such as shorts, t-shirts, and dresses. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are also essential to protect yourself from the strong sun.
• Spring/Fall: In the shoulder seasons of spring and fall, the weather in Istria can be unpredictable. It is advisable to pack layered clothing, including a light jacket or sweater, for cooler evenings.
• Winter: Winter temperatures in Istria can drop below 0°C, so warm clothing such as a coat, hat, gloves, and scarf are necessary.

Comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring the cities and towns, as well as for hiking and other outdoor activities.

Istria has many beautiful beaches, so it is essential to pack swimwear and beachwear if you plan to swim or sunbathe.

When to Go to Istria

The best time to go to Istria depends on your preferences and interests. Here’s an overview of the weather and the events that you can experience during each season:

1. Summer (June to September): This is the high season in Istria when temperatures are hot, and the sea is warm for swimming. There are many festivals, concerts, and cultural events during the summer months, making it a great time to experience the local culture.
2. Fall (October to November): During the fall, the temperatures start to cool down, but enjoying outdoor activities and exploring the region is still possible. There are also many wine and truffle festivals in Istria during this season.
3. Winter (December to February): Winter in Istria is cold, but it can still be a beautiful time to visit if you enjoy winter sports or want to experience the festive season. There are Christmas markets, traditional festivals, and skiing opportunities in the mountains.
4. Spring (March to May): Spring is a great time to visit Istria if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy pleasant temperatures. The countryside is green and lush, and there are many wildflowers in bloom. It is also a good time for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.

How Long to Stay in Istria

The ideal length of stay in Istria depends on your travel plans and interests. Here are some factors to consider:

1. Activities: Istria offers a variety of activities, including exploring the cities and towns, visiting historical sites and museums, hiking and cycling, swimming and water sports, and experiencing the local cuisine and wine. The length of your stay will depend on how many of these activities you want to do.
2. Itinerary: If you plan to visit other destinations in Croatia or nearby countries, you may need to adjust the length of your stay in Istria to accommodate your itinerary.
3. Budget: The length of your stay will also depend on your budget. The cost of accommodation, food, and activities can vary depending on the season and the type of experience you are looking for.
4. Personal preferences: Finally, the length of your stay in Istria will depend on your personal preferences. Some travelers may prefer a quick visit to see the main attractions, while others may want to take their time and immerse themselves in the local culture.

In general, we recommend staying in Istria for at least 3-4 days to fully explore the region. This will give you enough time to visit the main attractions, enjoy some outdoor activities, and experience the local cuisine and culture. If you have more time, you can extend your stay and explore the region in more depth.

3-Day Istria Itinerary With Family

Here’s a suggested 3-day itinerary for Istria with a family:

Day 1:

• Morning: Explore the historic center of Pula and visit the impressive Roman amphitheater.
• Afternoon: Relax on the beach at Verudela Beach Resort, where there are activities for children, such as paddle boats and water slides.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in Pula, such as Konoba Batelina or Konoba Vodnjanka.

Day 2:

• Morning: Visit the hilltop town of Motovun and walk through the medieval walls for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
• Afternoon: Experience the truffle hunting and tasting at Karlic Tartufi, followed by a light lunch.
• Evening: Drive to the coastal town of Rovinj and explore the charming old town and waterfront area.

Day 3:

• Morning: Visit the Baredine Cave, a natural underground phenomenon with stalactites and stalagmites.
• Afternoon: Visit the Aqua Park Istralandia, a water park with slides and pools for all ages.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in Rovinj, such as Restaurant Blu or Restaurant La Puntulina.

How to Get Around Istria

Here are some ways to get around Istria:

1. Car rental: Renting a car is the most convenient way to get around Istria. You can easily rent a car at the airports or in the major cities, and you’ll have the freedom to explore the region at your own pace.
2. Public transportation: Istria has a network of buses that connect the major towns and cities. The buses are comfortable and affordable, but they can be crowded during peak season. You can also take the train to Pula and Rijeka, but the train service is limited.
3. Taxis: Taxis are available in major cities and towns and can be a good option if you need to travel short distances.
4. Bicycle rental: Istria is a great region for cycling, and many companies offer bicycle rental services. You can explore the countryside and coastal areas on two wheels, and there are many dedicated cycling paths to follow.
5. Boat tours: If you want to explore the coastline and nearby islands, you can take a boat tour from one of the coastal towns. There are many options, from small fishing boats to larger catamarans, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery from the water.

Ultimately, the best way to get around Istria will depend on your preferences and itinerary. If you plan to visit many different areas and attractions, renting a car is probably the best option. If you prefer a more active approach, cycling can be a great way to explore the region.

How Much to Travel to Istria

The cost of traveling to Istria will depend on several factors, including your travel style, itinerary, and the time of year you visit. Here are some estimated costs to help you plan your budget:

1. Accommodation: The cost of accommodation in Istria will vary depending on the type of hotel, apartment, or villa you choose and the location. On average, a mid-range hotel will cost around €50-€100 per night.
2. Transportation: The cost of transportation will depend on how you choose to get around Istria. If you rent a car, expect to pay around €20-€50 per day, depending on the type of car and the rental company. Public transportation is cheaper, with bus tickets costing around €1-€2 per ride.
3. Food: Istria is known for its delicious cuisine, and there are plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from. A typical meal in a mid-range restaurant will cost around €10-€20 per person.
4. Activities: The cost of activities in Istria will vary depending on what you choose to do. Entrance to museums and historical sites is usually around €5-€10 per person. Boat tours and outdoor activities can cost more, with prices starting at around €30 per person.

Overall, you can expect to spend around €50-€100 per day per person, depending on your travel style and itinerary. This estimate includes accommodation, transportation, food, and some activities. However, keep in mind that prices can vary depending on the season, and some areas of Istria can be more expensive than others.