Poreč

Poreč is a town on the western coast of the Istrian peninsula. This town is almost 2000 years old and is located around a harbor protected from the sea by the small island of Sveti Nikola. The city has a rich history that is still present through the appearance of the city and many monuments. Being ruled by the Roman Empire, Poreč to this day has two main streets that meet at the centrally located Forum. Yet, the most famous landmark in Poreč is the Euphrasian Basilica that is an UNESCO World Heritage Cite since 1997. It was built in the 6th century and serves as a perfect example of early Byzantine architecture in the Mediterranean region. The most fascinating features of the basilica are its mosaics that date all the way back to the 6th century.

Other attractions include Romanesque and Gothic houses like Zuccatto Palace, House of Two Saints, Neptun's Temple, Istrian Council House etc.

Poreč is a very important tourist destination in Croatia and has been for a ling time. The first tourist guide describing Poreč was printed in 1845! Its rich heritage can be seen in the historic town center, through museums, galleries, and monuments. Poreč is very active even in the off season.

The first tourists were members of the Austrian nobility. In 1866, the Austrian Archduchess Stephanie sailed into Poreč on her yacht and introduced Poreč to the wider public. In the following years Poreč was visited by many “celebrities” such as Karlo Stephan, Karl Ludwig and Maria Theresia. Local government seized the opportunity and built the first swimming pool “Bagno Parentino” on the island of Sv. Nikola, which was opened in 1895. That event counts as a first step towards elite tourism.

Riviera hotel, first big hotel, was built in 1910, and since than Poreč became one of the most prestigious tourist destinations on the Adriatic.

It is also a very popular shopping destination. You can lose hours wondering around ancient narrow streets going through shops and galleries. Treat yourself with popular clothing and footwear brands, and don’t skip little shops offering handmade textile, souvenirs or jewelry.

If you are active and adventurous type, try out Ski lift at Zelena laguna Resort, or Parenzana bike tour, 3 hours macadam road leading from Grožnjan to Livade, suitable for families with children. There are bike trails all around the town, leading to Zelena Laguna Resort or Funtana, or through villages Fuškulin and Mugeba back to Poreč.

Make sure to visit at least one vinery around Poreč, try out local fine vines or bubbly vines, or one of many traditional family-owned olive oil or cheese productions.

One of specific activity Poreč offers is horseback riding. There are couple of stables that offer horseback rides in the area, Zelena Laguna resort, Lanterna Resort, and one between Poreč and Tar.

You can rent a boat and visit Sv. Nikola Island, or drive couple of kilometers south to Funtana to visit Dino Park, thematic dinosaur park set in the pine woods with a perfect walking trail where you can see electric life-size dinosaurs, take a ride on an amusement rides, see a circus show, have a meal and spend time with the animals at the petting zoo.

Baredine Cave, 5 km outside Poreč, has a 300 m long passes with underground lake at 60 m below the ground, and lowest point at 132 m below the ground. Brulo, Porto Busola, Pical and the beaches in Zelena Laguna Resort provide clear clean sea and all the utilities you need for your beach time. If you need more water fun, you can visit Aquacolors aquapark.

This coastal city and its rich heritage could be a perfect part of your sailing vacation!