Poreč

The city of Poreč is most widely known for the 6th-century Euphrasian Basilica, one of the several UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Croatia. But, there are several other sights in the historic center of Poreč that are worth a visit. The inevitable Mediterranean architecture and traditional Istrian restaurants and souvenir shops are yours to be explored!

Istria is the largest Croatian peninsula and the largest peninsula in the Adriatic Sea. It is known as Little Italy because, for many years, Istria was under Italian rule. This left a great mark on the architecture of the peninsula, as well as on the people of Istria. Along with the rich history and beautiful sea and nature, Istria is full of lovely little towns built in stone.

The most well-known cities of Istria are those on the coast – Pula, Rovinj, and Poreč. But there are also several lovely towns located in the inland of the peninsula. These are the acropolis towns such as Grožnjan, Motovun, or Hum, which is also known as the smallest town in the world.

Poreč is a place of rich cultural heritage. The former Roman colony reached its peak during the Byzantine reign. The most notable record of this era is the magnificent Euphrasian Basilica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you can also enjoy the sights of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. The original orthogonal set of streets, with beautiful Venetian palaces, has been preserved until today. The town’s historic center is full of cultural events and artsy souvenir shops, as well as lovely shops with local products.

Euphrasian Basilica

Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1997, the Euphrasian Basilica is the most valuable cultural monument in Poreč. The basilica complex is the best-preserved complex of early-Christian architecture in the world. The complex includes atrium, baptistery, bishop’s palace, Byzantine mosaics, and remains of sacral buildings dating from the 3rd to the 4th centuries. The basilica was named after Euphrasius, Bishop of Poreč. He built the complex in the 6th century, on the site of an earlier church. At that time, Bishop Euphrasius was serving under Roman Emperor Justinian. And, what is now known as Poreč, was in the 6th century the Roman city of Parentium.

The Euphrasius’ mosaics which decorate the facade and the interior of the cathedral attract the most attention. They are considered a valuable example of Byzantine art. The bishop’s initials inscribed in many of the mosaics have made him immortal. Euphrasius brought the spirit of Byzantium to Poreč and thus gave the town new political and cultural orientation. Over the years, this has turned the provincial little town into a recognizable and popular destination.

The Euphrasian Basilica is very much worth a visit. Not only will you witness a rare example of the preserved Byzantine art and architecture, but you will also see later modifications and influences that have affected the basilica and the town of Poreč. For an entrance fee of 50 HRK and a discount for children, the basilica is a must for everyone visiting this lovely town.

Poreč Old Town

Apart from the Euphrasian Basilica, the old town of Poreč has much more to offer. Located on a small peninsula, the town’s center is a witness to the history of the city, the rulers who passed through it, and the influences they left behind. These influences are reflected in different styles in architecture and art.

Roman influence is visible in the symmetrical placement of the streets. Poreč has preserved this appearance to date. The main streets Cardo and Decumanus are still in the original place, as well as the centrally located Forum (main square). Euphrasian Basilica reflects early-Christian and Byzantine architecture. The Venetian Republic, which ruled the city for five hundred years, left some beautiful palaces. The Romanesque, gothic, and baroque palaces can be seen along the peninsula. In the more recent history, the town was part of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy, which also left its mark on the town’s appearance.

One of the most significant cultural monuments that you can visit is the Romanesque House. The house from the mid-13th century is the oldest preserved house in Poreč. Today it serves as a souvenir shop and houses the Ethnographic Heritage Collection. Next, there’s the 15th century Gothic Palace. This is one of several preserved Venetian palaces along the Decumanus street. The Baroque Palace, built in the 18th century, is nowadays used as the Heritage Museum of the Poreč Region. Poreč also has preserved town walls and gates, as well as several towers. All these are remains of a former medieval defense system.

Poreč beaches

The coast of Poreč and its islands is 37 km long. The area counts with 21 beaches with the Blue Flag, an international symbol of clean sea, and an indication that a certain beach meets high environmental and quality standards. The town of Poreč and its archipelago hold the highest number of blue flags in Croatia. Whether you are a fan of sandy and pebble beaches, or you prefer a rocky beach, you’re bound to find something to your liking! Another good news is that the sea temperature can reach 28 degrees during the summer, which means that even the most demanding can enjoy a nice swim.

Many hotels have their private beaches, but there’s plenty of public beaches with all the necessary facilities. Poreč city beach is the closest one to the city center. The beach extends south of the old town and has a rich entertainment and recreational facilities with good gastronomic service. Thanks to the shade of the pine trees it is ideal for all who want to spend the entire day at the beach. In the Poreč area, you will also find special separate beaches for pets, as well as nudist beaches and beaches for adults only.

Aquaparks

Istria is home to the Aquapark Aquacolors Poreč, the largest Croatian water park. The aquapark is located just outside Poreč. It extends on over 100.000 m2 and offers plenty of amusement and adrenalin rides for people of all ages and profiles. Aquacolors Poreč gathers the biggest number of water attractions in one place. Steep toboggans and ultra-fast water slides, pools, a 500-meter long lazy river, and many other attractions are at your disposal. Other services available in the park, such as restaurants, bars, and shops, allow you to enjoy your time and spend the entire day having fun. The price of the daily ticket is 25 euro, with an extra discount for children, students, and families.

Only 30 minutes drive from Poreč, you will find Aquapark Istralandia. Istralandia is a magical water world ideal for families with children. The parks offer includes workshops, tournaments, dance courses, concerts, sports events, and other activities, with plenty of pools and slides that guarantee the best water entertainment. The full price ticket is just below 30 euros, but the reduced price is available for children and the elderly.

Istrian cuisine is as good as Istria is beautiful! Although they are both a variation of the Mediterranean cuisine, the traditional food of Istria differs from the Dalmatian cuisine. Fish, squid, asparagus, truffles, pasta, and Istrian pršut (prosciutto) are just some of the traditional dishes of Istria.

Tradizione

Tradizione is a family restaurant serving traditional local cuisine. On its menu, you will find seafood, fish, meat dishes, grilled dishes, etc. The restaurant is a bit secluded, which means it is not located in the very center. This gives you more privacy while you enjoy your meal. The nice ambiance and good sized portions are all the more reason to visit the restaurant.

Konoba Aba

Konoba Aba is a traditional local tavern serving Istrian and Mediterranean cuisine. The tavern offer includes seafood and fish dishes, but there’s plenty of traditional meat dishes on the menu, as well. Centrally located, the restaurant is a perfect choice to stop for a good meal while exploring the streets of the town’s center. The restaurant’s traditional interior will make you enjoy the food even more.

Bacchus Vinoteka

Bacchus is the perfect place to try the best of the local products. Here you can try Istrian wines and brandy, olives and olive oil, products made out of truffle, Istrian prosciutto and bacon, goat cheese, octopus salad, steak tartare, and other traditional snacks. Bacchus is a good choice for a brunch or a dinner, or as an alternative to a bar. Here, you can even purchase some of the products you’ve tried earlier.