Istria Loop

Istria is the largest peninsula in the Adriatic, about 90 percent of it in Croatia. A loop links coastal towns such as Pula, Rovinj and Poreč with hill towns inland.

Region: Istria, Croatia
Length: Istria County coast 445 km
Start / end: Pula – Poreč, back via Motovun
Suggested time: 4–6 days
Best season: May, June and autumn

What should you know before visiting Istria Loop?

Tolls and vignettes for a car: about €7 (Croatia).

Camping outside campsites is prohibited by law in Croatia, with high fines. That leaves campsites for the night; examples lie near Poreč, Novigrad, Funtana and Labin.
The best times are May, June and autumn. Istria County is the most visited tourist region in Croatia, so expect crowds in summer.
Inland lie hill towns such as Motovun, Hum and the abandoned town of Dvigrad. Old-town lanes are narrow, so parking at the edge of town is usually the better choice.

The drive

Istria lies between the Gulf of Trieste and the Kvarner Gulf. A loop starts in Pula with its Roman arena, follows the coast via Rovinj to Poreč with the Euphrasian Basilica and returns through hill towns such as Motovun. Novigrad and Labin add beach and harbour stops. For large motorhomes, check access to the old towns beforehand and plan to park at the edge of town.

Camping

According to camper guides, camping outside campsites is prohibited by law in Croatia and fines are high, so you overnight on campsites. Examples in Istria lie near Poreč, Novigrad, Funtana and Labin. Coastal sites are likely busy in summer, so check opening times and availability early. For current rules ask the Croatian National Tourist Board or the local tourist office.

FAQs

Can I wild camp in Istria?

No. Camper guides state that wild camping is forbidden in Croatia, and a Croatian camping site notes that camping outside campsites is prohibited by law with high fines. Plan on campsites and check current rules with the Croatian National Tourist Board.

When is the best time to go?

May, June and autumn are named. In summer temperatures run 25 to 30 degrees and the sea reaches about 23 to 24 degrees in August, but it is crowded. Autumn is truffle season.

Which places belong on the loop?

Typical stops are Pula, Rovinj, Poreč, Novigrad, Labin, Motovun, Dvigrad and Hum. Cyclists can ride a section of the Parenzana route near Motovun, which also passes Vižinada.

How much are the tolls on Istria Loop?

Tolls and vignettes for a car: about €7 (Croatia). Estimate with typical rates; motorhomes pay more, and vehicles over 3.5 t often pay by distance.