Welcome to Croatia! Upon arriving at the airport, your driver will meet you and transfer you to Rovinj. After settling into your hotel in the heart of the Old Town, meet your guide for a welcome dinner. You’ll have the rest of the evening free to relax and recover from the journey.

Rovinj

Located on the Istrian Peninsula in Croatia, Rovinj is a picturesque coastal town known for its vibrant Mediterranean charm. Once belonging to Italy prior to World War II, the historic old town is characterized by narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and a hilltop church, St. Euphemia’s Basilica, offering stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. As a popular tourist destination, Rovinj is frequented for its scenic waterfront, excellent seafood, and charming architecture. Surrounded by lush forests and pristine beaches, the natural beauty rivals the rich cultural heritage, captivating all those who visit this gem of Istria. Wander through
the town’s narrow cobblestone streets, or go on a sunset kayaking excursion and experience Rovinj from a different vantage point out on the water.

Sea Kayaking, Swimming & Snorkeling Rovinj Islands

Today, get ready to experience the town of Rovinj from a different perspective on a kayaking excursion. Take in views of the stunning Venetian architecture as you paddle through the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea. Later, take a break on Sveta Katarina (Saint Catherine) Island and enjoy time for swimming and snorkeling in the pristine waters. If you're seeking an adrenaline rush, your guide can even point you to a perfect spot for cliff jumping! (This service is on a private basis.)

In the afternoon, you’ll have free time to relax and explore Rovinj at your leisure. Later, you’ll meet your guide for a delightful dinner in the town, where you can savor local cuisine and reflect on the day’s adventures.

Kayaking Lim Channel

After breakfast in Rovinj, meet your guide in the hotel lobby and head out on a short drive to the Lim Channel, one of the Istrian peninsula’s most beautiful natural features. Today, you’ll have the chance to paddle and swim in this peaceful and protected area, surrounded by lush greenery and dramatic cliffs. According to local legend, this saltwater channel was once used by pirates to hide from British warships! After the 3-hour kayaking excursion, your guide will take you for a seafood lunch right next to the bay, where you can savor local oysters, mussels, fish, and other fresh delicacies. This picturesque setting provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxing and delicious meal. (This service is on a private basis.)

After lunch, we’ll drive an hour south to the Pula area, where you’ll have free time to settle into the seaside hotel, go to the beach, and have dinner on your own.

Pula

A captivating city situated at the southern tip of the Istrian Peninsula in Croatia, Pula is renowned for its rich history and stunning Roman architecture. The city's main pull is of course the Pula Arena, a remarkably well-preserved Roman amphitheater. The amphitheater dates back to the 1st century AD, once the host of gladiatorial contests. While the ancient ruins draw travelers in initially, Pula also boasts a charming old town just outside the ruins, with narrow, cobblestone streets, vibrant squares, and a lively waterfront. Visit sites such as the Temple of Augustus and the Arch of the Sergii, along with its bustling markets, cafes, and beaches to understand the city’s blend of historical sites and what makes it a compelling destination for travelers. Here, the fusion of past and present offers a whole new sense of adventure, as you explore the depths of ancient history while enjoying the contemporary Mediterranean lifestyle.

Farm Visit & Cheese Tasting, Olive Oil Museum & Pula Colosseum

Today, you'll have the chance to explore even further the enchanting southern region of Istria, learning more of its rich culinary heritage and vibrant history. Today's adventure begins with a visit to a charming organic farm, where you'll have the opportunity to sample a variety of exquisite goat cheeses, renowned for their unique flavors and artisanal quality.

Following this, we'll make our way to the historic city center of Pula, a city celebrated for its well-preserved Roman architecture. Here, you’ll witness the grandeur of the ancient Pula Arena, an impressive Roman amphitheater where gladiators once battled for glory. This iconic structure stands as a testament to the city's ancient past and provides a captivating glimpse into Roman entertainment.

Next, we’ll visit the olive oil museum, where you’ll delve into the Istrian tradition of olive oil production. You’ll learn about the meticulous processes involved in creating this liquid gold and why Istrian olive oil is considered some of the finest in the world. A tasting session will allow you to savor a selection of these premium oils, enhancing your appreciation for their distinct qualities and flavors.

In the afternoon, your guide will escort you back to your hotel. The remainder of the evening will be yours to enjoy at your leisure, providing an opportunity to relax or explore more of the local area on your own. (This service is on a private basis.)

Truffle Hunting & Cooking Demo

Istria is famous for its truffles, and today you’ll have the chance to search for this delicacy in the Motovun forests. We have about a one hour drive from Pula to Motovun, where we’ll join a local hunter and his dogs in search of truffles. After walking through the forests and (if we’re lucky) digging up some truffles, you'll have the chance to learn how to prepare our findings with a cooking demonstration, followed by a delicious lunch with truffle pasta and
other truffle products. After the cooking demo, you’ll have some free time to get settled into your hotel in Motovun before the early evening, when your guide will take you for a walk around Old Town Motovun. We’ll take a short stroll along the medieval defense walls and take in the panoramic views before enjoying dinner at a restaurant on top of the hill. On a clear day, you can expect to dine with an incredible view of the sunset over the Mirna River Valley. (This service is on a private basis.)

Motovun

The hilltop town of Motovun is one of inland Istria’s finest gems. A medieval town sitting atop a hill, take in the unique picturesque views this area has to offer, whether from atop the town itself or in the Mirna River valley below. Its astonishingly preserved architecture, ancient city walls and central square make it a travelers dreamscape, and here is also famous for hosting the annual Motovun Film Festival, attracting film enthusiasts from around the world. If you're seeking charm, cultural richness and divine cuisine (truffles!), look no further than Motovun.

Hiking Ucka Mountain

This morning, meet your guide in the morning and head inland to explore another side of the Istrian peninsula. On this half-day hiking excursion in U?ka Nature Park, your guide will lead you to the summit of Vojak Peak, the highest point on the peninsula. On a clear day, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Kvarner Bay and the Velebit mountain range. The hike is about three hours and is considered easy to moderate. (This service is on a private basis.)

Istrian Countryside Bike Tour

Today, explore the Istrian countryside by bike! E-bikes are available by request and make Istria's hilly terrain more manageable, though mountain bikes are an option as well for an extra challenge. Your route is customizable and selected according to your preferences. One option, a 31-mile route, takes you on a winding trip through Istria’s vineyards, olive groves, forests, and medieval hillside villages, including Oprtalj and Groznjan. The route also features a beautiful section of the Parenzana, a historic railroad bed that’s now open to hikers and cyclists. You’ll pedal over stone bridges and through tunnels as you wind your way back down to the Mirna River Valley, enjoying gorgeous views of Istria’s rolling green hills along the way. Return to your accommodations and relax on your own for the reminder of the day. Options include visiting a winery or enjoying the hotel. Your guide can recommend a few spots for dinner as well. (This service is on a private basis.)

Sadly, it is time for your adventure to come to a close. Today, your guide will transfer you to the airport in good time for your international flight home.

We hope had an amazing experience and wish you a safe and pleasant travels home!