Poreč: All destinations, advice & information for your holidays!
The popular seaside resort of Porec awaits you on the Istrian Peninsula. Its landmark is the Euphrasius Basilica, which sits atop a hill overlooking the historic old town. Don't miss a visit to this UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can see picturesque mosaics. In the bustling center, many restaurants and shops await you.
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Poreč - Must-see attractions
Euphrasius Basilica
The Euphrasian Basilica - Croatian: Eufrazijeva bazilika - is a church building from the 6th century. It is one of the finest examples of early Byzantine architecture in the Adriatic region and has long been a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A highlight of the two-aisled basilica is the elaborate floor mosaics as well as the large wall mosaics, which depict, among other things, biblical figures. The 18 columns made of fine Greek marble with richly decorated capitals are also an architectural gem.
Baredine Cave
The dripstone cave is located near Nova Vas and is known for its unique beauty. On a route of about 300 meters and up to 60 meters deep, there are five halls to visit. In the Hall of Figures, among other things, is the impressive Snowman Torchbearer. Fascinating stalactites and stalagmites form formations like the Leaning Tower of Pisa or the Madonna. From the fourth hall, a path leads down to the underground lake. There, the endangered olm, which you should definitely admire, live.
Romanesque House
The Romanesque House is a small stone house from the 13th century, built in the typical medieval Romanesque style. The magnificent wooden balcony is an extension from the 20th century. The Romanesque House is worth a visit not only because of its historical architecture. The interiors host a local history exhibition as well as an ethnographic collection. On the lower floor, there is a gallery where you can search for souvenirs.
Aquapark Aquacolors
Children and the young at heart stroll from one slide to the next in the Aquacolors water park. The Magicone is 48 m long but steep. The top attractions include the Turbolance, which leads through a wild whirl. During the rapid slide, you will be photographed! For the youngest, there is a water playground with shallow water and colorful play equipment. The Kids Crocodile Pool is also designed for little guests. In the wave pool, you can gently sway. The Lazy River is a popular retreat.
Marafor Square
The remains of the Temple of Neptune are located in the Croatian coastal town of Poreč on the Istrian peninsula. They lie west of the Marafor Square (Trg Marafor). The temple was dedicated to the Roman sea god Neptune and was one of the largest in Istria. The Temple of Neptune in Poreč was built in the 1st century on the Roman Forum. Today, only parts of the walls and foundations remain. These, along with many other sights, give a good impression of the former great significance.
Decamanus Street
The Decamanus is Poreč's popular shopping and strolling street. Impressive sights such as the famous Euphrasian Basilica from the 6th century are also lined up here. The World Heritage site is rich in marble and masterful mosaics. You can see historic Roman temple remains at Marafor Square. The Roman Forum once stretched across Marafor. A sought-after photo motif is the Romanesque house from the 13th century with a beautiful well. Stately noble houses like the Palazzo Zucatto line the Decamanus. Visit the richly stocked art gallery in the palace.
Poreč - Secret spots
Enjoy the dream beaches of the island of St. Nicholas
Only 500 m from Poreč, within sight of the harbor, lies St. Nicholas Island (Otok Sveti Nikola). A taxi boat takes you over to the dreamy sandy and pebble beaches of the island with their excellent infrastructure. Here you can engage in various water sports and leisure activities and enjoy a beautiful view of the old town of Poreč.
Excursion to the Ruined City of Monkodonja
About 40 km south of Porec, you immerse yourself in the Bronze Age in the ruined city of Monkodonja. The site, excavated in the mid-20th century, had its heyday more than 3,000 years ago. In addition to an acropolis, the Cyclopean walls also show influences of Greek culture. About 1 km away lies an impressive necropolis.
Novigrad – a dream on the Adriatic
North of the popular holiday resort of Porec lies the charming coastal town of Novigrad on the west coast of the Croatian peninsula of Istria. You can experience the Mediterranean flair of the picturesque small town by strolling through the lively streets of the historic old town with its ancient city walls, quaint cafes, and restaurants. Popular are the water sports activities at the bustling city beach.
Decumanus of Porec
The Decumanus of the Istrian coastal town of Porec runs straight from Trg Slobode (Independence Square) in the east through the old town to the Palazzo Zuccato, a three-story mansion from the 15th century. The street, laid out by the Romans, is today's promenade of the town – here are numerous shops, bars, and restaurants.
Poreč - In 3 days
Day 1
On the picturesque Adriatic coast of Istria, the charming small town of Porec welcomes you, home to nearly 16,000 residents. It is one of the most popular holiday destinations in all of Croatia, thanks to its numerous historical sights and impressive buildings. Spend your first day in Porec strolling through the old town, which is located on a peninsula and enchants its visitors with centuries-old buildings. Start your walk at Freedom Square and take a look at the Church of Our Lady of the Angels, built in the 18th century and still the heart of Porec today. The old city walls are also worth seeing. The main street, Decumanus, with its beautiful cobblestones, leads past numerous landmarks and many small cafés. The Euphrasian Basilica, whose foundation was laid as early as the 6th century, is considered the most famous landmark. Today, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is one of the most important buildings in Istria.
Day 2
If you have planned your trip to Porec for the summer months between April and October, it is recommended to spend the second day at one of the many bathing beaches. Relax and unwind while cooling off by swimming in the Adriatic Sea. Popular with both locals and tourists is the Gradkso Kupaliste beach, which you can reach from the old town in less than a 10-minute walk. The Val Parentino beach is highly favored by families. It stretches over a total of 700 meters, consists of fine pebbles, and is lined with numerous restaurants and cafes. Those who prefer to relax and sunbathe on fine white sand can take a trip to the Val Marea sandy beach, less than 2 kilometers away. On-site, you have the option to rent sun loungers and umbrellas. The shallow turquoise-blue Mediterranean is ideal for toddlers to splash around in.
Day 3
Porec is rich in cultural sights and picturesque natural highlights, but the surrounding area also offers a variety of interesting excursion destinations. Use your third day for a varied day tour to Umag and Novigrad in the north or to Rovinj and Pula in the south. Rovinj, in particular, is considered the pearl of Istria with its historic old town. The interior is also rich in highlights such as the village of Motovun. It sits atop a 280 m high elevation over the hilly landscape of Istria and boasts a millennia-old history. The church of Sveti Stjepan, the city walls, and the medieval gates of the town are considered landmarks. Even the ascent from the valley over the many hundreds of steps is an experience. Alternatively, you can also reach your destination by bus. On the drive through the interior of Istria, you pass many wine-growing areas, where tours and tastings are offered.
Poreč - Climate
Mediterranean climate awaits you in Porec. The annual average temperature is 17.9 degrees Celsius. Even in spring, the conditions for hiking and cycling are perfect: In April, the average air temperature is already 16 degrees Celsius. The warmest months are July and August with an average temperature of 28 and 29 degrees Celsius. During these months, the sea is also the warmest. The water temperature is 23 to 24 degrees Celsius. But even in September, you can still swim with a water temperature of more than 20 degrees. You should expect a rain shower on the Istrian coast at any time of the year.