On a recent trip to Croatia, Chris and I were happy to discover the hidden gem of Rovinj; the Old Town felt as if we were stepping into an enchanting Instagram feed of old European towns. Thanks to a suggestion from Chris’ coworker who grew up in Croatia, we could have happily spent even more than three days in Rovinj.
I can give you plenty of reasons to explore Rovinj with its colorful buildings, winding cobblestone streets, and beaches that hug the coast. Like many, you’ve probably never heard of this charming town on the Istria Coast, so before you jump into planning an itinerary for Rovinj, let me give you the low down and all the great reasons why you want to visit.
Why Choose Rovinj Over Split or Dubrovnik?
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If you consider ONLY the popular destinations of Split or Dubrovnik for your visit to Croatia, YOU ARE MISSING OUT! Traveling outside the main tourist areas of Croatia will help you discover charming villages and towns such as Rovinj (pronounced ro-VEEN). If you are planning your international holidays to Rovinj, you’ll be happy to discover a slower pace and calmer vibe over the more touristy areas of Split and Dubrovnik.
And let me share a little secret, even though Rovinj is in Croatia, it looks and feels as though you could be in Italy! Did you know that from 1918 to 1947, Rovinj belonged to kingdom of Italy? The influence is still felt today.
Croatia Details
- Official Language: Croatian
- Capital City: Zagreb
- Population: 4 million
- Currency: Euro
- Power Outlet: Type C & F
25 Charming Reasons to Explore Rovinj, Croatia
Rovinj has a population of approximately 13,000 people with millions of tourists flocking to this old world town each year to discover for themselves all the charming things to do in Rovinj. Like much of Europe, it is crazy busy with tourists in the summer months. The best time for you to visit is in the off season in May or September through October.
1. Wander the Streets of the Rovinj Old Town
Chris and I arrived in Rovinj in the evening and were simply wowed by the sunset, but the later hour didn’t give us much of a chance to enjoy the charming streets of the Rovinj Old Town. You can bet we were exploring the next day and checking out all the cool nooks, crannies, and charming things to do in Rovinj. The car-free old town is a great place to spend a morning wandering.
Tip * Be sure to wear good walking shoes. Meandering through the streets of Rovinj will have you climbing steps, walking up and down steep hills, and walking on cobblestones. I happened to wear my Birkenstocks one night for dinner, and the cobblestone were so slippery as they had been worn smooth over the years.
2. Discover the Beaches in Rovinj
The beaches in Rovinj are not your typical white sandy beaches. Some of the beaches feature small to medium-sized pebbles and some are actually slab rocks that hug the coastline. While they may not be as comfortable as sandy beaches, they still make a nice place to relax, soak up some sun, enjoy a picnic, or watch the sunset. If you want sandy beaches in Croatia, be sure to include Rab Island in your itinerary.
Beaches Around Rovinj
Lone Bay – Located close to Zlatni Rt forest, this beach is a short walk from Rovinj. The beach is made up of pebble and rock, but if you wear water shoes, you’ll be fine.
Golden Cape (Zlatni Rt) – The beaches in this protected park are secluded and surrounded by natural landscapes. The beaches are a combination of slab rocks and pebbled coves. The crystal-clear, turquoise waters may be a bit cooler, but they are stunning to photograph.
Skaraba Beach – This beach is often less crowded as it is off the beaten path. Note that it is for more adventurous swimming and diving with its rocky terrain and deeper waters.
Monte Beach – Monte Beach is at the point of the Rovinj Old Town peninsula, directly below the Church of St. Euphemia. It has a small rocky beach where you can swim. If you happen to be at the beach at sunset, you’ll have the best views.
3. Enjoy the Rovinj Harbor
I’ll admit it, I was quite impressed with the number of fancy yachts in the Rovinj old town harbor mixed in with smaller fishing boats, ferries, and batana boats (flat-bottomed boats used by the local fishermen). The harbor is the place to be at sunset for some stunning views.
4. Find a Great Place to Stay
Chris and I used Chase points to stay at the Adults Only Hotel Monte Mulini and walked about 15 minutes along the harbor everyday to the Rovinj Old Town. Definitely a good way to get our steps in! This 5-star hotel is the perfect getaway for Rovinj.
Another luxury accommodation is Hotel Lone where you can feel pampered and cared for.
For those seeking a 4-star hotel experience, Hotel Eden is an option. You will appreciate the well-appointed rooms, modern amenities, and personalized service.
Looking for something a little more cozy and budget-friendly? Consider Campsite Polari Mobile Homes located just 2.0 miles (3.3 km) from the Old Town of Rovinj.
If you want to stay in the heart of Old Town, there are plenty of options that exude charm and elegance. Peruse Booking.com to find the vacation stay that fits your needs!
5. Window Shop Along Grisia Street
Don’t miss Grisia Street. The street is filled with shops, art galleries, jewelry, ceramics, souvenirs and hosts a fine art exhibit of artists from all over Croatia and Europe every year. It makes the perfect place to purchase a memento of Rovinj. Grisia Street leads to the Church of St. Euphemia.
6. Browse Shops of Local Artisans
While Grisia Street is known for art, local artisans can also be found displaying their wares around Old Town and at the daily market.
7. Enjoy Dining and Fresh Seafood
In Rovinj, you can enjoy superb truffles, olive oil, wine, pasta, ice cream, homemade cheeses, and freshly caught fish every day, especially at off-the-beaten path restaurants such as Bura. Our waiter, Petar, was just the right amount of entertainment and service; the home-made burrata was exceptional.
8. Eat Ice Cream
As you walk along the harbor, there are plenty of ice cream shops to satisfy any sweet tooth. Indulge a little. You’re on vacation!
9. Visit the Rovinj Market
Valdibora Square is home to the Rovinj Market where you’ll bask in the vibrant sights and sounds of local Croatian life. Enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables, fresh seafood, artisanal cheeses, mushrooms, olive oil, and a variety of local products. Open daily from 7:00 am to 1:00 pm.
10. Enjoy the Sunset
Ahhhhhh, you won’t regret taking an after-dinner stroll at sunset as the sun paints the sky. The views, the pictures, the Instagrammable moments! Each night the view is just a little bit different.
11. Book a Sunset Boat Tour
Sunset boat trips are a must. Tours are timed to give you the best views as the sun dips below the horizon. Whether you are looking for a romantic evening cruise or a family adventure, you can find tours that offer views as well as glimpses of Rovinj’s chain of small islands.
12. Find a Waterfront Bar or Restaurant
Find your spot along the waterfront for a drink, appetizers, and sunset views. I heard the drinks are overpriced, but you’re paying for the location and ambiance too.
13. Rent a Bike
Cycling outside of the Old Town area offers a chance to explore a few distant attractions such as Golden Cape Natural Park or venture along scenic coastal paths.
14. Visit Agroturizam Valrosa
Chris and I didn’t get a chance to visit Agroturizam Valrosa, but we would have enjoyed dining at the farm just outside of Rovinj with its farm to table experience.
15. Post Instagrammable Pics
If you are an Instagram junkie, you won’t be able to resist posting your favorite pics of Rovinj. Rovinj Old Town is among the most Instagram worthy insanely colorful destinations around the world.
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16. Climb the Bell Tower at St. Euphemia Basilica
The dominant feature of Rovinj is the bell tower of the St. Euphemia Church at the point of the peninsula. Did you know that you can climb to the top of the tower for more outstanding views?
Local legend says that the St. Euphemia Basilica got its name with the miraculous appearance of Saint Euphemia’s sarcophagus (stone coffin)—driven by angelic forces all the way from Constantinople—washed ashore at Rovinj. The bell tower is reminiscent of St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice.
17. Visit the Nearby Islands
The chain of islands from Rovinj include over 20 island, reefs, and islets. It is a short five-minute ferry ride from Rovinj to the island St. Catherine. The east side of the island offers another perspective of Rovinj’s Old Town; the west side features tall cliffs that are often visited by brave souls who love to jump off of the cliffs!
Also accessible by ferry from Rovinj is Red Island—actually two islands (St. Andrews and Maškin Islands) joined together by an embankment.
18. Explore Golden Cape Natural Park
Golden Cape Natural Park, also known as Zlatni Rt, is south of the Rovinj Old Town. It features walking paths, biking trails, pebbly beaches, kayaking, picnic areas, swimming, and sunbathing.
19. Find the Statue of the Boy with the Fish
The statue of the “Boy with the Fish” in Rovinj, Croatia, tops a fountain located in Tito Square (main square). It signifies the arrival of running water to the old town and commemorates the towns rich maritime heritage.
20. Pass Through Balbi’s Arch
Balbi’s Arch dates back to 1678–79 and leads to Grisia Street and the historic district of Rovinj. One side of the arch features the carved head of a Turk while on the other side there is the carved head of a Venetian. It stands on the site of the old town gate and is a reminder of the town’s Venetian heritage.
21. Note the Lanterna Lighthouse
At the tip of the peninsula close to St. Euphemia’s Basilica, you will find a small lighthouse (svjetionik in Croatian). Built to illuminate the path of sailors, the Lanterna Lighthouse is small but has a pretty mighty view.
22. There’s a Bunker Too
Next to the lighthouse, you’ll find Bunker Lesso, an observation bunker built by the Germans between 1940 and 1945 to defend the city from naval attacks.
Take a Day Trip from Rovinj
I highly recommend Plitvice Lakes National Park, but it may be further that you want to travel for a day trip. If you do decide to go for an overnight excursions, plan your stay at Plitvica River House. The options below are perfect for exploring closer to Rovinj.
23. Novigrad
Chris and I happened to visit Novigrad—about 1 hour from Rovinj—along the Istrian Coast on the day they were installing the umbrellas. If you are a foodie, Novigrad is the place for you. You’ll also find these attractions:
- Church of St Pelagius and St Maximus
- Lapidarium Museum – home to Roman artifacts discovered in the crypt of the Church of St Pelagius
- Gallerion – a museum dedicated to naval wars and maritime history
- Explore the town walls
24. Poreč
Poreč is a 40-minute drive from Rovinj. Poreč (pronounced por-etch) is known for the vibrant nightlife, stunning beaches, and its rich history.
25. Pula
Chris and I made a quick stop in Pula on our way to Rab Island, Croatia. It is just 45 minutes from Rovinj. Besides being the largest city in Istria, the most notable feature of Pula is the Roman amphitheater (also called the Arena). If you love Roman ruins, you’ll love the Arena.
How to Get to Rovinj
Fly
If you’re flying to Rovinj, the nearest airport is in Pula, about a 45-minute drive away. You could also fly to Zadar, as we did, rent a car, and begin exploring Croatia. Zadar is approximately 4 hours away from Rovinj.
Rent a Car
The best way to get around Istria is by car. Many places, like Rovinj Old Town, are car free, but are totally walkable with plenty of parking places within walking distance.
Take the Ferry
Did you know that you can take the ferry from Venice to Rovinj on Venezia Lines? This adventures takes about three hours and 45 minutes. There are currently daily sailings. Check the ferry schedule here.
Closest Airports to Rovinj
The nearest airports to Rovinj are:
- Rijeka, Croatia – 78 miles (126 km)
- Pula, Croatia – 145 miles (233 km)
- Zagreb, Croatia – 162 miles (261 km)
- Ljubljana, Slovenia – 148 miles (239 km)
- Trieste, Italy – 124 miles (199 km)
- Venice, Italy – 221 miles (356 km)
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is nicer, Rovinj or Pula?
Pula is pretty cool because of the Roman Amphitheater, but Rovinj wins hands down for having the most idyllic old town.
Is Rovinj a walkable city?
Rovinj is totally walkable (and car free). You can walk from the harbor to the tip of the peninsula in 15 minutes or so. That is, if you don’t stop to take pictures along the way of the streets or the coast line.
Is Rovinj cheaper than Dubrovnik?
Yes. If you are comparing, Dubrovnik is about 15-25% more expensive than Rovinj.
What should I avoid in Croatia?
Simply be a smart tourist and show some common sense and you should be fine. Here are a few tips:
*Keep your hand on your valuables in crowded areas. Beware of pickpockets.
*Don’t keep valuables, cash, your wallet, or your phone handy for the convenience.
*Leave your valuables, flashy jewelry, and expensive clothing at home.
*If you are traveling in a group, learn to keep an eye on each other.
*Carry only enough money for the day; leave the rest in your hotel safe.
*Be aware of your surroundings. If it doesn’t feel right, use common sense and leave!
Are there enough things to do in Rovinj to make it worth a visit?
Definitely. You’ll find plenty of things to do in Rovinj from exploring its charming old town, strolling along the harbor, taking boat tours, and catching a little sun at the beaches. And taking lots of pictures.
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Charming Reasons to Explore Rovinj, Croatia
Fancy a trip to Croatia? While so many love the hotspots of Split, Dubrovnik, or Hvar, don’t forget to venture off the beaten path. Plan your summer holidays to Rovinj and you won’t be disappointed. The Istria peninsula in the western section of Croatia, is known for its wine, world class dining, truffles, hilltop towns, and Rovinj.
Don’t forget to include a few relaxing days on Rab Island on your itinerary and then chase waterfalls through Plitvice Lakes National Park.
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Rovinj Old town looks charming, and the Monte beach also is pretty cool to visit.
I love visiting coastal spots like this! I’d definitely want to check out the lighthouse and grab a bite to eat at a waterfront restaurant. Great post with plenty of ideas on how to explore the city!
Rovinj is still on our list of spots to visit in Croatia. Love the look of the old town and harbor areas.
I have never heard of Rovinj until now! The town looks beautiful. Great post. Thanks for sharing!
I added this to our list of places to visit in Croatia, it is indeed a not-so-well-known place. Thanks for the tips!
Rovinj looks so beautiful and rustic! Looks like the perfect spot for a slow summer holiday. 🙂