Istria Sailing Itinerary

Explore The Land Of Truffles and Wine

Istria Sailing Itinerary

Istria, known as the “heart of Croatia,” is a breath-taking peninsula that comprises of three regions: Pula, which encompasses the city of Pula and its surroundings; Rovinj, which encompasses Piran Bay; and the interior region of Istria. Each of these regions offers a plethora of natural beauty and activities to enjoy when not sailing.

Our Istria sailing itinerary will guide you through some of Istria’s top sailing spots and highlight other must-see attractions that don’t require a boat.

This itinerary is perfect for families with children and anyone looking for a relaxing sailing experience due to the shorter distances between stops.

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Our Guide to the Istria Sailing Itinerary

Pula, dubbed the capital of Istria, boasts a strong Roman heritage, as seen in the well-preserved Roman Colosseum that stands out in the city’s centre. The Arena, which can be seen from almost any location in the city, is a must-see attraction in Pula and one of the best things to see.

Getting There

The best way to get to Istria is by flying to the Pula Airport, about 7 km outside the city. Travelling through Zagreb is the easiest option if you cannot fly into Pula directly. From Zagreb, it is about a 40 to 45-minute flight. Another option would be to fly into Zagreb, Split, Rijeka, or Sibenik and take a bus to Pula.
Mooring

Our Istria sailing itinerary has plenty of mooring, with a good mix of both marina and free-swing anchorage options.

In Rovinj and Pula, there are well-equipped ACI marinas that have excellent infrastructure and amenities. Daily mooring prices vary by berth and time of the week. You can book ahead and see p rice lists.
Weather

The best sailing weather for the Istria sailing itinerary is during the peak season of May to September, with the average high in May being 19°C and an average high in September of 24°C. July and August are the best for swimming as water temperatures will reach 25°C.

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Day 1 Pula → Medulin
Day 2 Medulin → Ližnjan
Day 3 Ližnjan → Banjole
Day 4 Banjole → Brijuni

Day 5 Brijuni → Rovinj
Day 6 Rovnj → Poreč
Day 7 Poreč → Pula

Escape the Crowds in Istria – The Heart of Croatia With Our Istria Sailing Itinerary

Day 1

Pula → Medulin

The Bay of Medulin is particularly famous, with 11 uninhabited islets with untouched nature and beaches with pine forests, ideal for families with small children. Here you will find crystal clear sea, numerous bays and capes, and beaches rich in pine forests, which are ideal for rest and relaxation.

Given the rich fishing tradition, Medulin can boast of a rich gastronomic offer, which is primarily based on dishes with fish. Don’t miss tasting crab salad, black risotto or brodette. You can also taste good Istrian prosciutto, various specialities with truffles, and a particular part of the gastronomic tradition are the widely known Istrian wines.

Discover the Best Places to Snorkel in Croatia

Day 2

Medulin → Ližnjan

This hidden corner of the sea and the indented coast, which plunges into it with rocks and gravel, will reveal the beauty of this 28-kilometre-long, undeveloped coast to anyone who wishes.

The picturesque port will tell you that you are in a place that has lived from the bounty of the sea since ancient times.

It’s no surprise that many captains sail to this city each summer. The town has alluring sights and experiences, from natural wonders to adrenaline-pumping activities like diving, biking, horseback riding, and kite surfing.

Head to the Roman town of Vizace (Nesactium) near Valura and the St. Mary church near Lizjan to see well-preserved mosaics from the early Christian era.

Day 3

Ližnjan → Banjole

Banjole is a fishing village located on a small peninsula with a naturally protected harbour, ideal for lovers of the sea, sailing and fishing.

Banjole is a hidden gem that will delight you with its delicious local cuisine, charming landscapes, and fun activities. The town is surrounded by bays, coves, peninsulas, and idyllic beaches, all offering the added benefit of shady pine forests on hot days.

There are also coastal hiking trails that offer breathtaking vistas and can be completed in under an hour. If you’re a fan of the sea and seeking an adrenaline rush, swimming, snorkelling and cliff jumping are the top activities in the area.

Read Why A Catamaran Charter In Croatia Is Perfect For Anyone

Day 4

Banjole → Brijuni

The crowning jewel of Istria is the National Park Brijuni, which is situated off the west coast of the region. This archipelago comprises two larger and 12 smaller islands, all of which are worth sailing around.

The largest island, Veliki Brijun, is known for its unique microclimate which supports a diverse range of native and imported animal species. The Safari Park on the northern edge of Veliki Brijuni houses an eclectic collection of indigenous Istrian and exotic fauna from South America, Africa, and Asia.

The second-largest island, Mali Brijun, is renowned for its Fort Minor, the largest fortification on the Adriatic coast, and the Ulysses Theatre, which offers evenings of classic and contemporary performances in theatre, music and dance under the open sky.

Day 5

Brijuni → Rovinj

One of the most “photogenic” towns in the Mediterranean is the former fishing and now tourist town of Rovinj-Rovigno. About 40 kilometres from Pula, Rovinj-Rovigno has long been known as a city whose climatic features have a favourable effect on health. Therefore, even today, this city and its citizens cherish a long tradition of maintaining the place and “fight” for the epithet “healthy city”, and nature does the rest. The entire coast, along with twenty-two islands, is a protected natural heritage.

Whoever visits our city once hardly forgets it and often returns to it again. The beauties of Rovinj often leave a deep mark, so the connection with it extends for generations.

Day 6

Rovinj → Poreč

Experience Poreč! A city that uniquely combines a rich cultural and historical heritage and the most modern amenities of a top tourist destination. A vacation in Poreč will delight you at every step throughout the year.

From clean beaches that carry the Blue Flag label, nightlife and many cultural and festival events to the green Mediterranean environment that invites recreation, sports and adventure.

A stop in Poreč also offers an encounter with a unique historical and cultural heritage, in which the famous Euphrasian Basilica, under the protection of UNESCO, one of the most impressive sacred buildings on the Adriatic coast, occupies a special place.

Don’t miss discovering the beauty of the authentic Istrian interior with its widely known gastro-oenology.

Day 7

Poreč → Pula

It is time to head back to Pula for check-out on the final day. After turning in your charter at the marina, you can explore the city.

Pula is home to numerous buildings dating back to the Roman empire, including the Pula Arena, which is remarkably well-preserved.

This colosseum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it not only serves as an interesting historical monument and hosts many concerts by local and international artists.