Thinking about exploring Istria? Don’t think twice.
Rovinj or Rovigno is a bilingual fishing town that is truly a star of the peninsula. Preserved with care, over the centuries it maintained its specific charm.
Once a Venetian settlement founded in the classical era is today a favorite Istrian hotspot. The old town is built on egg-shaped peninsula that is car-free and treasures some of the best restaurants offering local delicacies for the pure enjoyment of your taste buds.
Some of the most impressive and significant Croatian sights and landmarks found solid ground in Rovinj. Discover the stunning Rovinj scenery including 14 green islands and get lost in the most romantic Croatian destination ever – Rovinj.
Authentic experience
Strategic position of Rovinj in the north Adriatic greatly contributed in becoming an fishing port that it is still to this day.
Dedicated residents didn’t let modern touristic activities interfere with their century’s long tradition. This is now one of the most authentic everyday rituals of Rovinj. Early in the morning fishermen are joined by squeaky gulls as they haul their catch in the harbor. Afterwards they stay in the port and mend their nets before lunch.
The whole scene is beautiful to watch as it is a lovely presentation of original Mediterranean life.
The most prominent sights and landmarks
St. Euphemia’s Basilica
Baroque Church of St. Euphemia, often known as the Basilica of St. Euphemia, is located in the heart of the historic part of Rovinj, dominating the town.
It was built on the remains of Christian structures in 1736. The present three-nave church is dedicated to Euphemia and the facade dates from 1883. The relics of Saint Euphemia are preserved in a Roman sarcophagus from the sixth century. The church contains several treasures and works of art: Gothic statues from the 15th century, paintings from the 16th and the 17th centuries: Last Supper and Christ in the Gethsemane.
The bell tower resembles the tower of St Mark's Basilica in Venice.
Zlatni Rt forest park
Along with Trsteno near Dubrovnik, Zlatni Rt (Golden Cape) is the most important park on the Adriatic coast.
With thousands of indigenous and domesticated plants, such as community oak and Aleppo pine, in this century-old park are also cultivated many foreign plants - cedar, pine and some ten species of cypress, which all contribute to the Mediterranean atmosphere.
Visiting this forest park is a must when in Rovinj, because of it romantic and memorable atmosphere.
Rovinj archipelago – excursion paradise
The vicinity of Rovinj is adorned with stunning archipelago consisting of 14 islands.
Cruising this special landscape offers a view of the Castle on the island of St. Andrew, a Benedictine monastery founded in the 6th century and an overpowering view of natural uniqueness. Lighthouse "St. John at sea ", built in 1853, is located at the farthest small island of Rovinj archipelago. A weather station can be found there and as of recently a tourist accommodation.
Rovinj Heritage Museum
The Museum was founded in 1954 by a group of artist from Rovinj with the intention of collecting and exhibiting works of art. It is housed within a Baroque palace built in the 17th century. It has permanently exhibited arts but is also a town gallery.
Over the years the amazing collection grew so much it is only partialy exhibited due to the lack of space. There you can find contemporary art pieces, old masters, ethnology, a library and most recently a collection of archaeological finds.
Magical beaches, delicious gastronomy and phenomenal attractions
A 67 kilometers long coastline is blessed with many beaches. There are 14 islands, islets and 6 cliffs, 2289 ha of protected green are, thus creating an overall natural environment.
Aside from the natural beauty, Rovinj is abundant in cultural events especially during the high season. Carerra Street is the place to be if you enjoy sprinkling some shopping activities over your vacation. Various shops with diverse offer and remarkable souvenir will harden your choice, but you can always stop at the small squares for a cup of coffee while you reflect on your possible purchase.
Colorful facades of the old town uncover the wonderful rhapsodies on a plate. Deciding what delicacies to try might get tricky, but we got your back. Check these out!
Coming to Istria always pays off.
Such romantic destination as Rovinj guaranties a tremendous holiday filled with interesting activities, places to see and events to experience. Take your significant other and embark on an unforgettable journey of exploring Rovinj.
Have you visited Istria? Would you like to sail the Rovinj archipelago? Have you ever witnessed the authentic fishing experience?
Author: Nikolina Dukic
Photo Credit: (1) and (2) Photonet, (3) alchen_x, (4) Partick, (5) Pixabay, (6) guille, (7) dzsimbo