Istria is a melting pot of cultures where historic towns, glittering seascapes and delicious dishes vie for your attention. This full day tour takes in some of the region's star turns, including Rovinj and ancient Pula. You'll also tuck into a lunch of tasty local specialities. Ratko, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘Europe's three biggest cultures overlap in Istria – Latin, Germanic, and Slavic. My favourite moment is always stepping inside the sixth-biggest amphitheatre in the world at Pula – Istria's very own Rome.'
You'll start the day in photogenic Rovinj, with its old town crammed onto an oval peninsula. There's a tangible sense of the Venetian heritage here, and you'll stroll narrow streets fringed by Roman and Byzantine treasures, too. Grab the chance to visit gems such as St Euphemia's Church, from where the views over the archipelago are impressive. Next, you'll stop by the hamlet of Gržini for a typical Istrian lunch in a farm-to-table restaurant and get an insight into rural life.
Having refuelled, head to the final stop of the day, Pula. Here, your guide will bring to life the times of roaring crowds as you explore the towering and remarkably well-preserved Roman Arena, accompanied by a local ‘gladiator'. You'll have free time to wander around, relax, people-watch, shop or see the rest of the city – a true treasure chest of Roman remnants – before boarding the coach back to resort.
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