Explore Istria
So Much More to Discover
There is so much more to discover beyond the beautiful coastline of Rabac. Villa Leo Cavea is an ideal starting point for exploring some of Istria’s most fascinating towns, historic villages, breathtaking landscapes and unique cultural sights. Wander through centuries-old streets, discover charming hilltop towns, explore the unspoilt Istrian countryside or take a day trip along the peninsula to experience a completely different side of this remarkable region. From history and architecture to nature, culture and Mediterranean lifestyle, every excursion offers something new to discover.
Whether you are planning a short afternoon trip or a full day of exploring, many of Istria’s most beautiful destinations are well worth the journey – and should definitely be part of your stay.
RABAC – The Pearl of Istria’s East Coast
Crystal-Clear Waters. Mediterranean Beauty.
Rabac is one of the most beautiful seaside destinations on Istria’s eastern coast, famous for its crystal-clear Adriatic waters, white pebble beaches and lush Mediterranean vegetation. Once a tiny fishing village with only a handful of houses, Rabac gradually developed into a charming and popular seaside resort.
Today, beautiful beaches and secluded coves stretch along the coastline, inviting visitors to swim, relax and enjoy the spectacular views across the Adriatic towards the island of Cres. The lively seaside promenade is lined with restaurants, cafés, bars, hotels, boutiques and ice cream stands, creating a wonderful Mediterranean holiday atmosphere.
Whether you spend the day at the beach, stroll along the waterfront, enjoy dinner overlooking the sea or simply watch the boats in the harbour, Rabac perfectly combines natural beauty with relaxed seaside life. Often referred to as the “Pearl of Kvarner Bay”, Rabac is an absolute must-visit when exploring the Labin region.
HUM – The Smallest Town in the World
Hidden in the green hills of central Istria, Hum is often described as the smallest town in the world and was first mentioned in historical documents in 1102. Its medieval character has been remarkably preserved, with ancient stone houses, narrow lanes, fortified walls and a historic town gate.
Despite its tiny size, Hum has a fascinating cultural heritage, including the 12th-century frescoes in the Church of St. Jerome and its close connection to Croatia’s ancient Glagolitic script. The famous Glagolitic Alley leads for approximately seven kilometres from nearby Roč to Hum.
The town is also known for biska, a traditional Istrian mistletoe brandy. Surrounded by peaceful countryside, Hum is a unique glimpse into historic Istria and a charming destination well worth discovering.
ROVINJ – Romantic Adriatic Charm
Rovinj is one of Istria’s most beautiful and romantic coastal towns, famous for its colourful houses, picturesque harbour and enchanting historic Old Town. Originally built on an island, the old centre was connected to the mainland in 1763 and has preserved its distinctive Mediterranean character ever since.
Narrow cobbled streets wind their way uphill between centuries-old buildings, charming boutiques, galleries, cafés and restaurants. At the highest point stands the magnificent Church of St. Euphemia, whose elegant bell tower dominates Rovinj’s unmistakable skyline.
Venetian architecture, hidden squares and beautiful views across the Adriatic create an atmosphere that makes simply wandering through the Old Town an experience in itself. With its unique combination of history, culture, gastronomy and Mediterranean lifestyle, Rovinj is undoubtedly one of Istria’s must-see destinations.
MEDULIN – Seaside Life & Mediterranean Charm
Once a traditional fishing village, Medulin has developed into one of southern Istria’s most popular seaside destinations. Its lively waterfront, marina, restaurants, cafés and relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere make it a wonderful place to spend a day by the Adriatic.
Medulin is particularly known for its beautiful coastline and Bijeca Beach, a rare sandy beach stretching for approximately one kilometre and especially popular with families. Another highlight is the Vižula Archaeological Park, where ancient Roman remains reveal more than 2,000 years of history directly beside the sea.
The surrounding coastline offers numerous bays, beaches and opportunities for swimming, water sports and boat trips. Combining seaside relaxation, Mediterranean lifestyle and fascinating history, Medulin is a highly recommended destination for discovering the beautiful south of Istria.
PULA – Ancient Roman Heritage
Where 3,000 Years of History Come Alive
Pula is Istria’s largest city and one of Croatia’s most fascinating historic destinations, with a history stretching back around 3,000 years. Its most spectacular landmark is the magnificent Roman Arena, built in the 1st century AD during the reign of Emperor Vespasian and once used for gladiator fights.
Walking through the city reveals an extraordinary collection of Roman monuments, including the beautifully preserved Temple of Augustus, the Arch of the Sergii, the ancient Forum and historic city gates. The impressive Arena remains the symbol of Pula and today provides a spectacular setting for concerts, festivals and cultural events.
Beyond its ancient heritage, Pula combines lively streets, restaurants, cafés and Mediterranean atmosphere with a beautiful Adriatic coastline nearby. With its unique blend of Roman history, culture and modern city life, Pula is one of Istria’s absolute must-see destinations.
POREČ – Ancient Heritage
Poreč is one of Istria’s most beautiful historic coastal towns, combining more than 2,000 years of history with the relaxed atmosphere of the Adriatic. Its charming Old Town still follows the original Roman street layout, with narrow stone streets leading past historic buildings, lively squares, cafés, restaurants and boutiques.
The city’s greatest cultural treasure is the magnificent Euphrasian Basilica, built in the 6th century and recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. Its spectacular Byzantine mosaics are among the most impressive examples of early Christian art in the Mediterranean.
Beyond its fascinating history, Poreč offers a beautiful waterfront, Mediterranean architecture and a vibrant seaside atmosphere. The combination of culture, history, shopping, gastronomy and the Adriatic makes Poreč a wonderful destination for a day trip and one of Istria’s must-see towns.
CRES – A Mediterranean Island Escape
Cres is one of the largest islands in the Adriatic and a wonderful destination for a memorable day trip from Istria. The adventure begins with the ferry from Brestova to Porozina, offering beautiful views across the Adriatic before reaching the island.
Cres is famous for its unspoilt Mediterranean landscapes, crystal-clear waters, secluded beaches and picturesque historic villages. Discover the charming old town of Cres with its narrow medieval streets, visit the spectacular hilltop village of Lubenice or explore the traditional fishing village of Valun.
The island’s landscape ranges from ancient forests and rugged cliffs to olive groves, aromatic Mediterranean vegetation and hidden bays. With its remarkable combination of nature, history and authentic island life, Cres offers a completely different perspective on the Adriatic and is highly recommended for an unforgettable day trip.
TRIESTE – Italian Elegance by the Adriatic
Trieste is an elegant Italian port city where Mediterranean lifestyle meets the architectural grandeur and cultural heritage of Central Europe. For centuries shaped by its important role within the Habsburg Empire, the city offers a fascinating blend of Italian, Austrian and Adriatic influences.
At its heart lies the magnificent Piazza Unità d’Italia, an impressive waterfront square surrounded by grand historic buildings and opening directly onto the Adriatic Sea. Elegant cafés, traditional coffee houses, restaurants, boutiques and beautiful architecture make exploring the city on foot a wonderful experience.
Another highlight is Miramare Castle, the spectacular 19th-century residence of Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian of Habsburg, dramatically positioned above the sea and surrounded by an extensive historic park. From Roman remains and the historic San Giusto district to the lively waterfront and famous Italian coffee culture, Trieste offers an extraordinary variety of experiences.
With its unique combination of history, architecture, shopping, gastronomy and Italian lifestyle, Trieste is a fascinating destination and highly recommended for an unforgettable day trip across the border.
MALI LOŠINJ – Mediterranean Harbour Charm
Mali Lošinj is the vibrant heart of the island of Lošinj and one of the most charming island towns of the northern Adriatic. Its history developed from a small settlement into an important centre of seafaring, shipbuilding and trade, with its maritime golden age shaping much of the town’s character.
Today, colourful Mediterranean houses surround the picturesque harbour, while cafés, restaurants and small shops create a lively yet relaxed island atmosphere. The town is surrounded by crystal-clear waters, beautiful bays and fragrant Mediterranean vegetation, making the entire area ideal for combining sightseeing with a day by the sea.
Tourism in Mali Lošinj dates back to 1885, and in 1892 Lošinj was officially recognised as a climatic health resort thanks to its exceptional natural and climatic conditions.
With its beautiful harbour, maritime heritage, Mediterranean lifestyle and extraordinary natural surroundings, Mali Lošinj is a wonderful destination for discovering another side of the Croatian Adriatic.
Over 4,000 Years of History - Just Waiting to Be Discovered
Perched on a hill 320 metres above sea level, the historic Old Town of Labin is one of the cultural treasures of eastern Istria. The area was already inhabited around 2000 BC, while ancient Albona – as Labin was once known – was probably founded by the Celts in the 4th century BC on the site of an earlier prehistoric settlement. After becoming part of the Roman Empire in 177 BC, Albona developed into an important Roman municipality with a remarkable degree of autonomy. The name Albona was first recorded in written sources in 285 AD, marking another milestone in the town’s long history. Over the centuries, Labin evolved into the beautifully preserved medieval hilltop town visitors can explore today, with narrow cobbled streets, historic squares, elegant palaces and centuries-old architecture. During the Venetian period, impressive buildings and landmarks shaped much of the character that still defines the Old Town today. Labin is also the birthplace of Matthias Flacius Illyricus, the famous 16th-century theologian and reformer who worked alongside Martin Luther. Today, its galleries, artists’ studios, cafés and spectacular viewpoints overlooking Rabac, the Adriatic Sea and the island of Cres make Labin Old Town an absolute must-visit during your stay in Istria.