Poreč, nestled along the Istrian coast in Croatia, is a charming town steeped in history. Its old town is a precious gem, meticulously preserving traces of its Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian past. Alongside kilometers of tranquil coastline, inviting leisurely strolls and refreshing dips in the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, Poreč is also the arrival point of Parenzana, the region’s most renowned cycle route, winding along the path of an ancient railway from the Austro-Hungarian era, offering cyclists picturesque views and a glimpse into the area’s rich history.
This picturesque village is a treasure trove, offering breathtaking vistas and exquisite gastronomy. Local delicacies such as truffles, olive oil, and wine contribute to Poreč’s culinary excellence. Exploring the historic center reveals narrow, mostly straight streets, remnants of its Roman heritage. The quaint port, overlooking the nearby Island of Sveti Nikola, bustles with fishermen and boaters, creating a perfect setting for a sunset stroll. However, the true gem lies hidden within its labyrinthine alleys: the magnificent Euphrasian Basilica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as one of the most significant Byzantine treasures. A short distance away, nature reigns supreme, with Lim Bay offering a picturesque fjord-like inlet, showcasing the region’s stunning natural beauty.
What you will find in this guide to visiting Poreč:
- Poreč: Interesting Facts and Things to Know
- Best Things to Do in Poreč
- Best Beaches in Poreč
- Best Restaurants in Poreč
- How to get to Poreč
Poreč: Interesting Facts and Things to Know
Poreč is one of the main towns of the Istrian peninsula, located along the coast of Croatia. It is located halfway between Rovinj and Novigrad and in recent years it is becoming more and more touristy, also due to its beautiful beaches and its cultural treasures, including even a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city stands on a small peninsula 400 meters long and 200 meters wide and was founded by the Romans in the 2nd century BC. Even today, the streets of Poreč Old Town reflect the ancient layout of the Roman era. In particular, the beautiful main pedestrian street of Poreč, with its smooth stone paving, is what used to be the ancient decumanus.
After the collapse of the Western Roman Empire, in 476 the city came under Byzantine rule. In this period the majestic Euphrasian Basilica was built in honor of Bishop Euphrasius. After the Byzantines, the town of Poreč fell into decline and first came under Slavic and then French rule, until in 1267 it became part of the Republic of Venice.
From 1797 it became a disputed area between Austria and Napoleon’s France. The Austrians finally ruled Istria, and therefore also Poreč, until 1918, when the region was annexed to Italy. After the end of WWII and the signing of the 1947 Treaty of Paris, Poreč and the surrounding region was assigned to Yugoslavia. Subsequently, Poreč merged with Croatia in 1991, the year of the Croatian declaration of independence.
Best Things to Do in Poreč
Euphrasian Basilica
The crowning jewel of Poreč is the magnificent Euphrasian Basilica, positioned at the northern terminus of the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. Revered as a quintessential specimen of Byzantine art and architecture, it stands as a testament to ancient craftsmanship, preserved immaculately through the ages. Commissioned by Bishop Euphrasius between 543 and 554 AD, this architectural marvel’s roots delve even deeper into history. Initially, the site housed a basilica honoring Saint Maurus of Parentium, and its mosaic flooring, dating back to the 4th century and originally adorning a Roman villa, now graces the basilica’s garden.
Although formally designated as the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption of Mary, it remains a cherished sanctuary dedicated to Saint Maurus, the city’s patron saint. Within its confines lie the relics of both Saint Maurus and Saint Eleutherius of Poreč. A Byzantine portal crowns the church’s entrance, while its resplendent interiors—characterized by a rectangular layout divided into three naves—are adorned with marble from Greece and the Marmara coast. Eighteen columns, crowned with Byzantine and Romanesque capitals bearing Bishop Euphrasius’s monogram, enhance the grandeur, but the pièce de résistance lies in its apse, bedecked with mosaics hailed as exemplars of Byzantine artistry.
The focal mosaic portrays the Madonna and Child, flanked by angels, Bishop Euphrasius and Saint Maurus, alongside local saints Elpidius, Eleutherius, and Proietto. Above, another mosaic depicts Christ flanked by Saint Peter, Saint Paul, and the apostles. Scenes of the Annunciation and the Visitation grace the arches, while medallions depict twelve martyrs. A precious marble ciborium from 1277 adorns the main altar, featuring Venetian-style depictions of the Annunciation. The basilica’s art trove includes early Christian and medieval relics, as well as Venetian-era masterpieces such as a polyptych by Antonio Vivarini and a baroque rendering of The Last Supper by Jacopo Palma il Giovane.
The Euphrasian Basilica of Poreč comprises a complex of structures: the Cathedral, accessed through mosaic-adorned portals, a colonnaded atrium housing a trove of stone monuments, and a 6th-century octagonal baptistery preserving remnants of the former Basilica of Saint Maurus. The Bishop’s Palace, contemporary to the basilica, shelters a collection of sculptures, mosaics, and paintings from the oratory of the ancient basilica, while the 16th-century bell tower stands as a later addition. Admission to the Euphrasian Basilica is €10 (€5 for students), encompassing access to the bell tower. Ascend 120 steps to its summit and be rewarded with panoramic vistas of Poreč’s red-tiled rooftops and the azure expanse of the Adriatic Sea.
Poreč Venetian Towers
Poreč was a fortified city during the Middle Ages, an aspect that is still clearly visible today when walking in and around the village, surrounded by a beautiful seafront promenade. In particular, it was the Venetians who enclosed the entire old town of Poreč within defensive walls. A mighty wall that ran along the entire perimeter of the peninsula and which in the 15th century was reinforced with three mighty towers: the North-East Tower, the Pentagonal Tower and the Round Tower.
The North-East Tower, sadly in ruins, stands as a reminder of the ancient city walls. Just a short distance south, the splendid Pentagonal Tower now hosts a restaurant and proudly displays the coat of arms of the winged lion of Venice on its facade. Following the decumanus, the main avenue of Poreč, visitors can explore this area further. Aligned with the other towers, the Round Tower lies to the south, overlooking the port. Today, it is home to a bar boasting arguably the finest panoramic terrace in Poreč. Ascending the original stone stairs of the tower rewards visitors with a truly stunning view of the surrounding area.
Marfor Square and the Decumanus
Those arriving from the east (where most of the big car parking is located, where you have to leave your car) typically enter the Poreč Old Town passing through a modest modern town dating from the 19th to the early 20th century, culminating at the Church of Our Lady of Angels, an example of 18th-century baroque architecture. Continuing westward, one encounters the Pentagonal Tower and the Decumanus, characterized by its smooth stone paving. This charming thoroughfare, lined with shops, traverses the entire historic center, showcasing several buildings that once served as the grand noble residences of Poreč. Notably, at number 5 you can see a Gothic Palace from 1473, boasting a façade adorned with single and triple lancet windows.
At the intersection with the cardo maximus, one can admire the Gothic façade of the Zuccato Palace and, just beyond, the picturesque Romanesque House, one of the oldest in Poreč, dating back to the 13th century. The journey culminates at Marfor Square, once the town’s central square. This area preserves the remnants of the ancient Roman Forum of Poreč, so much so that its name is derived from the Latin “Major Forum”. Today, the square is surrounded by houses with pastel coloured facades, as well as an array of restaurants and bars. Visitors can still behold the remains of the Temple of Neptune, evidenced by partial columns, and the pediment of the Temple of Mars.
Poreč Seafront and Sveti Nikola Island
Poreč has maintained its status as a cherished summer retreat since the 19th century when it welcomed steamboats from the Austrian Lloyd of Trieste, hosted the aristocracy of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and even became a favored holiday destination for some of the Habsburg royals. The town’s inaugural luxury hotel was erected in 1910 and now stands as the distinguished BO Hotel Palazzo, commanding a waterfront position overlooking the port.
Encircling the city is a pedestrian promenade, guiding to the port where you can admire architectural gems such as the late 19th-century theater and the early 20th-century town hall. During the day, the city is peaceful, as most tourists enjoy the beaches outside the center. Poreč boasts over 40 km of coastline, from the mouth of the Mirna River to the Lim Channel, with many hotels, resorts and campgrounds, including one of the largest naturist campsites in Europe. But when the sun goes down, Poreč becomes lively and its restaurants and streets in the center are filled with people!
By day, tranquility envelops the city, with most tourists gravitating toward the beaches beyond the heart of town. Poreč proudly boasts over 40 kilometers of coastline stretching from the Mirna River mouth to the Lim Channel, adorned with numerous hotels, resorts, and campgrounds, including one of Europe’s largest naturist campsites. Yet, as the sun sets, Poreč transforms into a vibrant hub, with its central streets and restaurants teeming with activity.
The picturesque Island of St. Nicholas (Sveti Nikola) lies just off the Poreč Old Town, easily accessible by a short boat ride from the small port on Obala Maršala Tita. While it may lack prominent landmarks, the island boasts several spacious family hotels offering nice vistas of the Adriatic Sea and the town. Additionally, it features a couple of well-maintained concrete and artificial sand beaches, along with water activities tailored for children. Notably, access to the island’s beaches is not restricted to hotel guests, welcoming all visitors to partake in the sun.
Baredine Caves
One of the most striking features of Istria’s geology is the karst phenomenon, which creates fascinating underground landscapes. You can witness this for yourself at the Baredine Caves, located less than 10 km north of Poreč, amid the picturesque scenery of the Istrian countryside, with verdant fields, vineyards and olive groves. While not as expansive or dramatic as its neighboring caverns such as the renowned Postojna or Škocjan Caves, these caves are among Croatia’s most beautiful.
Welcoming explorers since 1995, these caves extend approximately 300 meters in length, descending to a depth of 130 meters below the surface. The guided tour route delves to a depth of 60 meters, leading visitors through five interconnected chambers adorned with intricate formations of stalactites and stalagmites. Among these formations, the most notable is the one resembling a snowman, captivating visitors with its unique allure. The tour culminates in the final chamber, where an underground lake shimmers in the dim light and you’ll see a deep vertical well that leads to the bottom of the cave and plunges to the cave’s aquifer below. With luck, visitors may catch sight of the proteus, a small amphibian indigenous to the karst habitat.
You can reach the Baredine Caves from Poreč by car or bike. Alternatively, you can catch a local bus to Višnjan stopping at Nova Vas, and then walk 1 km from there to the cave entrance. The caves are open from April to October and guided tours, lasting approximately 40 minutes, are available in English, German, Italian and Croatian. Ticket prices are €11 for adults, €7 for children aged 5-15, and €9 for students.
Lim Canal
The Lim Canal, also known as Lim Fjord for its resemblance to a fjord, is one of Istria’s natural wonders. This lengthy inlet spans approximately 11.5 km between the cities of Vrsar and Rovinj. It derives its name from the Latin word “limes” – meaning border – as it historically demarcated the territories of Poreč and Rovinj. The canal’s towering banks, adorned with woods, create a striking contrast against the azure waters of the sea, forming a breathtaking panorama.
The northern bank, basking in sunlight, is adorned with Mediterranean vegetation, while the southern bank, sheltered by hills, boasts a dense forest of ash trees, oaks, and dogwoods. The untamed wilderness invites exploration through leisurely hikes, offering glimpses of the most exquisite scenery. Both banks also cater to mountain biking enthusiasts, providing varied terrain for thrilling rides.
Scattered along the canal are numerous caves waiting to be discovered, such as the Cave of Romualdo, where the revered founder of the Camaldolese Order once resided as a hermit. Another enchanting way to experience the canal is by boat, allowing travelers to admire the landscape and observe the local wildlife, including dolphins and seabirds.
The canal is renowned for its oyster and shellfish farming, offering delectable treats at the cozy stands and restaurants lining its banks. The surrounding area boasts several picturesque viewpoints accessible by car. To reach the Lim Canal from Poreč, one can embark on a scenic half-hour drive, either hugging the coastline or winding through the inland, passing by several charming villages along the way. Among them is Sveti Lovreč, which beckons visitors with its medieval castle and Romanesque church steeped in over a thousand years of history.
Best Beaches in Poreč
Poreč is renowned for its beaches and as a favored summer holiday destination, especially cherished by couples and families. However, don’t expect paradisiacal white sand beaches. Truth be told, much of Poreč’s coastline (and the entire region’s) consists of monotonous concrete beaches, punctuated by wilder rocky shores and a few coarse-grained pebble beaches. Yet, if the beaches’ beauty falls short, the crystal-clear sea with its stunning colors more than compensates.
Moreover, north and south of Poreč, you’ll find kilometers of serene tree-lined avenues tracing the coastline, winding through lovely groves and pine forests. Ideal for leisurely strolls or bike rides, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Among Poreč’s most popular beaches are those just south of the village, like Plava Laguna Beach and those of Zelena Laguna, Brulo, and around the Hotel Delfin Plava Laguna. This stretch features rocky and concrete beaches overlooking the pristine sea, surrounded by verdant woods and pine forests.
Some of Poreč’s finest hotels and resorts are situated in this area, including the Hotel Parentium Plava Laguna, Hotel Molindrio Plava Laguna, and Hotel Albatros Plava Laguna. These establishments offer modern sea-view accommodations and a range of amenities such as spas, private beaches and convenient half-board or all-inclusive rates, encompassing meals and drinks throughout the day, including alcohol.
Equally enchanting are the beaches north of Poreč, towards Novigrad. Just beyond the village lie several public concrete beaches and a promenade offering splendid views of Poreč’s historic center. Surrounding this area are some of the best family hotels and resorts, such as the exceptional Valamar Parentino Hotel and the more intimate Minella Residence. Others are nestled around the popular beaches of Špadići, such as Hotel Park Plava Laguna, Hotel Materada Plava Laguna and Garden Suites Park Plava Laguna. These accommodations offer modern comforts, spacious gardens with pools, spas, children’s entertainment, and convenient half-board rates.
A bit farther north lies the tranquil Ulika Peninsula with Camping Ulika Mobile Homes, a favored naturist campsite, and the stunning wild beaches of Lanterna, arguably the finest around Poreč. Here, you’ll find other beloved family resorts like the Valamar Tamaris Resort, offering rooms, apartments, and villas with all-inclusive rates overlooking expansive beaches bordered by a beautiful park with pools and sports facilities. Naturists will find solace in the secluded beaches nearby, including the renowned FKK Solaris Camping Resort by Valamar, offering excellent accommodations by the sea.
Read More: Discover our guide to the BEST BEACHES IN POREČ
Best Restaurants in Poreč
Poreč is renowned for its good seafood cuisine, where fresh fish from the Adriatic harmonizes with the finest products of the Istrian terrain: olive oil, truffles, meats and good wines. The gastronomic spectrum is diverse, spanning from laid-back restaurants, predominantly offering local fish and traditional regional fare, to more upscale and refined establishments, which present local delicacies with a contemporary flair.
Among Poreč‘s most esteemed restaurants stands Restaurant Sveti Nikola, situated on the waterfront facing the eponymous island. Acknowledged by the Michelin Guide, it serves up local fish and meat specialties within an elegant ambiance. A short stroll away, connoisseurs of gourmet cuisine will delight in Restaurant Spinnaker at the Valamar Riviera Hotel, where tasting menus exalt the flavors of the region, skillfully reimagined by chef Goran Hrastovčak, who honed his craft at Heinz Beck’s La Pergola.
Peretokutna Kula offers another good dining experience within the ancient Pentagonal Tower, nestled in the heart of the old town. Opt for a table on the terrace, if available, to savor your meal atop the tower, overlooking the charming rooftops of Poreč. Other notable establishments include Konoba Aba, a cozy eatery renowned for its regional fare, featuring fish specialties, truffles and local charcuterie, as well as the Cotton Club Porec, which serves simple yet delectable regional dishes in the town center.
Venturing into the hinterlands surrounding Poreč reveals a treasure trove of excellent restaurants and taverns, where regional specialties are savored amidst the serene and picturesque backdrop of the Istrian countryside. Notable among these are Konoba Daniela in the quaint village of Veleniki, approximately 5 km from Poreč, and Agroturizam Selo Mekiši, nestled in the tiny hamlet of Mekiši kod Vižinade within the municipality of Vižinada, roughly 20 km from Poreč. The surrounding region is also renowned for its production of fine wines.
How to get to Poreč
Getting to Poreč by Car
The optimal way to explore Poreč and the stunning Istria region of Croatia is by car, motorbike, or camper. If you’re arriving from Italy, the typical route involves passing through Trieste and then crossing the border into Slovenia. From there, embark on the A9 highway toward Koper, then transition to the E751 highway heading toward Poreč. Situated just 80 km from Trieste, Poreč is reachable in approximately 1.5 hours by following the E751. Alternatively, you can opt for the picturesque coastal routes that wind through the towns along the shoreline: Road 111 in Slovenia and 75 in Croatia. This scenic journey takes you through charming Slovenian coastal villages such as Koper, Izola, Piran and Portorož. Continuing south from Poreč leads you to other captivating Croatian towns like Rovinj and Pula.
For travelers originating from Zagreb, Croatia’s capital, take the A6 highway toward Rijeka and then transition to the E751 highway, which will guide you to Poreč. This route showcases diverse landscapes, from the inland hinterlands to the picturesque coastal regions, offering a glimpse into the natural beauty of Croatian countryside and shoreline. From Rijeka, you can also opt for the coastal roads, treating yourself to awe-inspiring views of the Adriatic Sea en route to Poreč. Along the way, make sure to pause and explore the captivating towns of the Croatian coast, including the enchanting locales of Rovinj and Pula, before reaching your final destination in Poreč.
Getting to Poreč by Bus
If you’re looking for an affordable travel option to reach Poreč, taking a bus is a convenient choice. The bus journey from Trieste to Poreč lasts approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes, offering a cost-effective transportation option with ticket from €8. FlixBus operates this route daily, providing travelers with a reliable and accessible means of reaching Poreč. The Poreč Bus Station is conveniently situated just 600 meters from Poreč Old Town, located at Karla Huguesa 2 (GPS: 45.22456, 13.59764). This central location facilitates easy access to the heart of the town and its attractions.
From Poreč Bus Station there are connections to and from major Croatian cities such as Pula (2 hours), Rovinj (1 hour) and Rijeka (2 hours). Buses from Zagreb to Poreč take around 6 hours. The bus stations of Trieste and Zagreb offer a large number of bus connections with most of the main European cities.
Ferries from Poreč to Venice
Not many people know that you can easily travel from Poreč to Venice. From May through September, there are ferry connections between Poreč and Venice, with daily departures from the port of Poreč, situated on Obala Maršala Tita. The journey from Poreč to Venice lasts approximately 3 hours, while the return trip from Venice to Poreč takes around 3.5 hours. It’s important to note that these ferries are solely for passengers and bicycles and do not accommodate motor vehicles. For timetables, tickets, and prices updated in real-time, you can find them on Direct Ferries.
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