Discover the Charms of Rovinj: One of Croatia’s Most Beautiful Coastal Towns
Rovinj is located on the western side of the Istrian peninsula. It is a popular tourist destination famous for its stunning beauty and unforgettable memories. From its rugged archipelago of 14 islands and 6 cliffs to the charming historical center, guests who visit Rovinj once, can’t help but return time and time again.
Rovinj is notorious as one of the most romantic, picturesque and charming towns in the Mediterranean. The climate, rich cultural and historical heritage. Top turistic and gastro – enological offer, hospitality and proximity to airports and all major cities in Europe attracts an increasing number of satisfied tourists from all over the world.
Experience the Beauty of Rovinj’s Archipelago
Visitors are drawn to the popular islands near Rovinj, including St. Andrew (Red Island) and St. Catherine. Both islands offer a variety of accommodation options, with hotels such as Hotel Istria on St. Andrew and Hotel Katarina on St. Catherine’s Island. The Rovinj islands and land often described as “outstanding scenic wonders.”
Rovinj’s historical center is a feast for the eyes, with its cultural and historical monuments, art galleries, and studios. The St. Euphemia Church, the Rovinj Museum, and the Batana House Eco Museum are a few must-see attractions. The Batana House Eco Museum is particularly noteworthy, its included in the UNESCO Register for safeguarding intangible cultural heritage. With its picturesque streets, rich history, and ample opportunities for adventure and relaxation, Rovinj truly is an unforgettable summer destination.
Discover the Old Town of Rovinj
Nestled on the Rovinj peninsula, once an island until 1763, lies a charming medieval old town. Its narrow stone alleys and stairways, sculpted by centuries of foot traffic, lead to quaint houses adorned with vibrant colors, surrounded by lively squares.
The inanimate stones come to life with bustling everyday activities. Fishermen set out to sea at dawn, while grandmothers catch up with each other in doorways after the market. Children play and laugh in the alleys, uninhibited by the passing of time. A visit to the old town of Rovinj is a journey through history, guided by curiosity and wonder. Although compact in size, the peninsula is a labyrinthine delight, where getting lost is a joy. With everything just, a ten-minute walk from the main square, there’s no need to fear.
St. Cross and Svalba streets encircle the old town. Grisia, Montalbano, Trevisol Garzotto cut through the heart of the city, leading towards the peninsula’s tip. At the peak of this maze stands the magnificent church of St. Euphemia, the patron saint of the city. Built in Venetian style, its grandeur and beauty epitomize the city of Rovinj.
The downtown bustles with cafes, galleries, restaurants, and shops, offering a multitude of dining, shopping, and leisure options. From a leisurely lunch to a quick snack. From purchasing souvenirs to admiring paintings and handmade bags, the downtown streets have something for everyone.
Discover the Charms of Rovinj: St Eufemia Church
The Church of St. Euphemia, or the Basilica of St. Euphemia is a Baroque church located in the heart of the historic part of Rovinj. It is definitely the main tourist attraction of the town.
Discover the Charms of Rovinj: Franciscian Monastery
The monastery houses over 250 works of art from the 15th to the 20th century. Works, created using traditional techniques and various materials, demonstrate the creativity and ingenuity of the human spirit.
Most of the works in the collection are religious in nature, relating to liturgy and popular forms of worship. Others are related to the activities of the monastery, particularly its school and theological studies. The daily use artifacts, on the other hand, are of great interest because they provide insight into the local community’s ethnographic material culture. In short, these artifacts symbolize the complexity and richness of religious life in the area over the past centuries.
Most of the works come from the church and Franciscan monasteries, with the rest being sourced from other locations. It is believed that some of the items from the St. Andrew monastery were transferred after its closure. The collection comprises 28 paintings of oil on canvas, wood, and copper. Of note are two baroque paintings of great value, possibly originating from Venice, depicting the earthly life of Christ. From the 18th century, there is a series of works representing the Holy Family.
Discover the Charms of Rovinj: Visit The Civic Museum
The Civic Museum of Rovinj is set in the XVII/XVIII-century baroque palace of Count Caliphs. Established in 1954 by local artists, it serves as the city’s premier gallery and showcases its extensive cultural heritage in a permanent exhibition.
Over its fifty-year history, the Museum has accumulated a vast collection encompassing contemporary art. Antique masterpieces, archaeology, ethnology, books, documents, and photographs of the partisan battalion Pino Budicin and more.
One of the most significant ancient master collections in Croatia is found at the Museum. Particularly Italian works from the 15th to 19th centuries. The Renaissance era is represented through the works of artists in Giovanni Bellini’s circle and Bonifacio de Pitatija’s Adoration of the Magi. While the Baroque period is characterized by the contributions of Marco Ricci’s on the Road to Emmaus, Antonio Zanchi, Jerome Romanin, Nicola Grassi, the school of Guido Reni, Bernardo Strozzi and others. The Museum’s collection also includes portraits from central Europe (such as GF Waldmüler’s Portrait of Ludwig of Bavaria) and a series of late Gothic polychrome wooden sculptures (such as Pietà).
Expert-led tours are available by appointment.
Find more informations about Rovinj’s History here.
Unwind in the Forest Park Golden Cape
For those seeking a peaceful escape, the Forest Park Golden Cape located in the southern part of the city is the perfect destination. Take a leisurely walk, go for a run, or enjoy a swim in this centennial park, located next to the Hotel Eden, Lone, and Monte Mulini.
The Forest Park Golden Cape, also known as Punta Corrente, is a major natural attraction in Rovinj, Croatia. In the late 19th century, Georg Hütterott purchased four islands in Rovinj and began developing a spa on the Golden Cape, covering about 90 hectares. Despite his untimely death, which disrupted the spa project, his vision contributed to the growth of tourism in the area.
In 1961, the uniqueness of Punta Corrente was acknowledged, and it is declared a nature park. This park offers a variety of recreational activities. Running, cycling, and gymnastics, and includes a transformed quarry that serves as a popular spot for free climbing. The park provides an ideal setting for a leisurely stroll, as it is close to motor vehicles.
The beaches at Punta Corrente are a must-see. With a combination of rocky capes and pebble bays suitable for families, and beach bars for refreshments. The park is rich in native plants, including Himalayan cedars, cypresses, pines, Douglas firs, and exotic solitary cypresses. In addition, there is a dense undergrowth of holm oaks and other Mediterranean shrubs. Along with a diverse range of pines, including the Aleppo pine and the Calabrian pine.
Discover the Charms of Rovinj: Partecipate at Grisa Exhibition
The Grisia Open Air Exhibition in Rovinj is an annual event where artists, both professional and amateur, showcase their works of art in the streets. The exhibition is held along a street named Grisia, which connects the town square and St. Euphemia’s church, and draws a large audience. On a Sunday in August, artists from around Istria, Croatia, and beyond decorate the street with paintings, sculptures, installations, and other vibrant creations.
The first Grisia exhibition took place in 1967 and was inspired by the arrival of 120 American tourists on the ship “Liburnija” from Venice in 1966. The American tourists were enamored with Rovinj’s artistic community and purchased 12 works of art during their visit. Moved by this event, the local artists came together to organize the first Grisia exhibition. The event starts early in the morning and runs until late afternoon, with the final pronouncement of the best works and awards presented later in the day.
Discover the Unique Beaches of Rovinj
The beaches of Rovinj boast a typical northern Adriatic coastline, with 67 km of rocky headlands, coves, sand, and pebbles.
Discover the Charms of Rovinj: Visit Dvigrad
Dvigrad is cultural and historical attraction 15 km from Rovinj.
Discover the Charms of Rovinj: Visit Lim Bay
The Lim bay and valley is unusual geographic feature near Rovinj on the western coast of Istria, south of Poreč, Croatia.
Visit Pula – Only 20 km Away
With remnants of Roman history, walking trough this town of extraordinary beauty with a 3000-year history, Pula takes you to another era. Pula is one of Croatia’s most fun destinations, offering a mix of cultural and historical highlights. With plenty of fun in the sun. This important Istrian port boasts a rich and varied cultural heritage and has some of the best-preserved Roman monuments in Croatia.
Discover the Charms of Rovinj: Delicious Gastronomic Offer in the Restaurants
Furthermore, when you are exploring the city and surrounding place, it is equally important to recharge your batteries. This is best done with a delicious meal of authentic Istrian cuisine. In Rovinj you will find a wide range of restaurants with something for every taste.
Rovinj and its surroundings are home to some of the finest Istrian restaurants, including the Lim Channel with its oyster farm and the prestigious Stancija, a member of Relais & Chateaux, an international association of premium hotels and restaurants. The neighboring town of Bale boasts authentic Istrian traditions and architecture, as well as virtually unspoiled natural beauty.
Rovinj gastronomy offers some of the top-notch possibilities like wine and wine roads, olive oil, truffles, and honey. Discover local food and customs with the official gastronomy guide for Rovinj. Mediterranean and Istrian cuisine will amaze your taste buds.
Take a Journey to the Heart of Rovinj’s Culture and Traditions
- The Batana Boats and Bitinada Songs
Life in Rovinj, has always been closely intertwined with the sea. The town’s rich fishing heritage has been carefully preserved, and the harmonious relationship between the residents of the old town and the stunning coastal landscape is embodied by the iconic batana boats. These wooden vessels, ranging from 4-6 meters in length, are an intrinsic part of Rovinj’s customs, traditions, language, and spirit.
As summer arrives in Rovinj, visitors and locals alike are treated to the sight of batana boats being built in the town center, in front of the Batana House Eco Museum. In the evenings, skilled Rovinj Kalafat’s construct these boats with traditional techniques, and later in the season, you can even witness the launch of one of these beautiful vessels. One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Rovinj’s batana boats is to participate in the “Batana with Fishing Light Parade and Dinner at Spacio.” Several times a week, visitors are invited to join a batana ride around the old town, followed by a dinner and performance of Rovinj’s traditional bitinada songs at the Spacio Matika tavern
- Music Nights
During the summer season enjoy the summer program in the town center and hotels, tourist resorts and campsites where a rich and interesting program accompanied by live music and entertainment is organized every night.
Discover the Charms of Rovinj: Outdoor Activities
During the summer, visitors can enjoy swimming in the Adriatic Sea, lounging on the beaches, and exploring the coves. Rovinj also offers a summer entertainment program, including the Croatian Summer Salsa Festival, Summer Sensual Days, street concerts, classical music concerts, and the Grisia exhibition. The Batana Boat Parade is a unique experience, where you are taken on a traditional flat-bottomed boat to the Spacio tavern, where you can enjoy traditional Rovinj music. The town also offers free bike tours, diving, sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, fishing, beach volleyball, and more.
Golden Cape Forest Park Exercise Station
At the Golden Cape Forest Park entrance, located near the parking lot and children’s playground, an exercise station awaits visitors. This station boasts 10 pieces of high-quality fitness equipment, designed to help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, stress, and diabetes. To further promote wellness, a running trail has been established in the area. The exercise station encourages park visitors to enjoy the benefits of sun, fresh air, and exercise, with equipment suitable for all ages, from casual users to professional athletes.
Diving in Adriatic Sea
Diving in Rovinj offers a breathtaking underwater experience, showcasing the stunning marine life, abundant plant, and animal species, as well as a plethora of underwater walls, reefs, caves, and shipwrecks. Quality tested equipment is available for rent from local diving clubs, who also maintain and service their customers’ gear. Divers can feel safe with the availability of a hyperbaric chamber in Pula. Diving can be enjoyed in Rovinj and Istria throughout the year, with the most pleasant sea temperatures occurring from May to November.
A particularly thrilling dive is the Baron Gautsch shipwreck, located 9 nautical miles from Rovinj at a depth of 39 meters. In addition to this shipwreck, other popular dive sites include Lim Shallows, Saline Coast, Saline Wreck, the islands of Figarola, Banjol, Šturag, Sv. Ivan, and Sv. Ivan na pučini, and the Rubini Reef.
Take a Kayaking Journey
Gazing upon Rovinj from the ocean is a breathtaking view and a rare chance to savor a magical moment. Paddle at ease and take your time to appreciate the romantic vista of the town, with its brightly colored houses perched on the seashore. Kayaking provides unrestricted mobility, allowing you to visit the islands of Sv. Katarina, Sv. Andrija, Maškin, Sturag, and Sv. Ivan, as well as numerous charming islets and rocks. Embark on a stunning kayaking journey through the Rovinj archipelago.
Discover Rovinj on the horseback
Nature and adventure enthusiasts can experience the thrill of horseback riding and admire the captivating scenery of Rovinj and its natural surroundings. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned equestrian, local stables and ranches offer a variety of itineraries and trails for you to explore the breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural and historical heritage of Istria.
In addition to horse riding lessons and excursions, a range of outdoor activities and the opportunity to sample the regional cuisine are integral to this unforgettable adventure.
Cycling Paths and Bike Routes
Explore the diverse cycling paths and bike routes in Rovinj and make the most of your active holiday in Istria. Access bike maps and locate bike service centers in the area. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cyclist, Rovinj and its surrounding regions offer a range of bike routes to suit all levels. Uncover the beauty of Rovinj on two wheels by discovering its bike routes, trails, and rental options.
Accomodation
Rovinj is a prime summer getaway spot in Croatia, with options to suit every type of traveler. The luxurious Monte Mulini area offers 4-star and 5-star hotels with views of Mulini Beach and the new marina. For families, Rovinj offers a range of facilities, including private accommodation, tourist resorts, and campsites near the sea and coves, with plenty of activities for kids. Camping enthusiasts can find a spacious campsite and tourist resort surrounded by pine trees and well-kept beaches, ideal for nature lovers. Naturist Camp Valalta is proud to uphold the naturist tradition in Rovinj and was voted the best campsite in the ANWB and ADAC classifications in 2013.
What is the best time to visit Rovinj
Croatia Rovinj boasts a warm and temperate climate with mild winters. Minimum temperatures average between 35°F (2°C) to 41°F (5°C) from November to March. As spring approaches in April, temperatures gradually increase to 59°F (15°C) to 64°F (18°C), but the city is prone to more rainfall. By May, temperatures rise to a comfortable 68°F (20°C) or higher, with reduced rainfall.
From June to September, Rovinj enters its summer season with limited rainfall and pleasant temperatures. Reaching a range of 77°F (25°C) to 86°F (30°C) in the warmest months of July and August. However, the wind can make temperatures feel higher, especially with the warm Jugo wind.
For optimal weather, visit Rovinj during the months of May, June, September, or October. The temperatures range from 68°F (20°C) to 79°F (26°C).
Finding a Place to Park in Rovinj
Rovinj is a charming, medieval town known for its dense Mediterranean architecture and its pedestrian-friendly layout. The old town, located on a peninsula, always off-limits to vehicles, which can make it challenging for those who drive everywhere.
While there are many parking spaces available for a fee, they may not be sufficient to accommodate the number of visitors during peak season, especially in the area closer to the city center. To ensure a smooth parking experience, we recommend to ask the accommodation owner about parking options before arrival. Many owners have parking arrangements in other parts of the city or offer alternative solutions.
Despite the parking difficulties, Rovinj is a compact town where everything is within walking distance. The exception is Rovinjsko selo and Kokuletovica, which are about 4 kilometers away. And the Bork settlement, which is a 30-40 minute walk from the city. In addition, all other parts of the city reached within a 20-minute walk.
Exploring Rovinj on foot or by bicycle is a great way to experience the town. Similarly, bicycles rent for around 10 Euros per day. Some accommodation owners may provide access to bikes as part of the stay. This will allow you to easily reach the city center and the beautiful beaches of Rovinj.
Top 5 Restaurants Rovinj 2023
