Rovinj is not only considered one of the most beautiful towns on the Croatian coastline but it is also a stretch of the Istrian peninsula that is steeped in Italian cultural heritage to offer those who book a villa in Rovinj a combination of Croatian and Italian charm. With impressive good looks, a romantic atmosphere, great seafood in the local restaurants, less intense tourist crowds than some of Croatia’s other beloved seaside destinations, and charm to spare, Rovinj is an ideal place to spend a whole vacation or a great day-trip spot if you have booked a holiday rental in Istria. Here are our top five things to see and do in town!
1. Wander the Old Town
With the Italianate influence all about, winding little streets, cobbled roads, colourful buildings, balconies, flower baskets, alleys that bring you to steps right down to the water, clothes lines strung between buildings and fluttering in the breeze, locals sitting out and chatting, little cafés and boutiques, and more, the highly photogenic Old Town is well worth a wander. You don’t need to have a particular destination in mind, just go for a stroll, stop to take the occasional photo, get a little bit lost, pop into a shop here and there, take a break for some coffee or a beer, and generally soak up the highly romantic atmosphere of this pretty place – you’re on holidays, it’s the perfect time to simply potter about with no specific plan!
2. Take in the View
If you want to see this entire gorgeous town and out across the stunning bay all at once? Well, you’ll have to be up for a bit of a trek but the pay-off definitely makes up for it! Just head to the Church of St. Euphemia, the town’s Baroque church located on a hill in the Old Town. Once you make your way up to the church itself, there’s another climb up the 192 wooden steps inside the bell tower. Then, upon arriving at the top, you’ll be able to taking in sweeping vistas over the red rooftops of the surrounding homes and buildings, the rich blue waters bobbing with boats and shining in the sun (hopefully), the lush green islands, and down along the coast. It’s a truly breath-taking view and then you can reward yourself with a cool drink once you get back down.
3. Sample the Local Cuisine
From the freshest seafood in charming local restaurants, to incredible produce and products bought from the delightful and bustling local farmers’ market, to great wines from the area enjoyed at the Mediterraneo Bar directly on the seafront (some tables are less than a step away from the water), to those aforementioned little cafés tucked away in the Old Town, Rovinj offers ample opportunities to enjoy delicious things in gorgeous settings. So, foodies, in particular, who book a vacation rental in Istria should definitely make a point to come to this seaside gem.
4. Cruises in the Bay
Don’t just gaze out at the waters and the coast while you’re in Rovinj – get out and explore it! Cruises go from the town to those islands that you could see from St. Euphemia and all along the coastline and out to sea. If you really want to amp up the romance and finish your day out in style, we suggest opting for a sunset cruise, something you’re likely to never forget.
5. Hit the Beach
Also be sure to get into the water directly! Some cruises may let you get into the sea from the boat or stop at particular beaches but even if you stay on land, there are some beaches in town to choose from. Balota Beach is right in the Old Town and is easy to access while other options just outside of Rovinj can be readily reached by bus or by car.
Browse our villas in Rovinj and our holiday rentals in Istria today and come fall in love with the charms of this part of Croatia on you next getaway!