Istria is not just a peninsula of sea, sun and gastronomy – it’s a true paradise for nature lovers, sports enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.
From the blue of the sea to the green of the hills, from adrenaline-filled thrills to peaceful rides through olive groves – an active holiday in Istria is an experience that energises, inspires and connects you with nature.

Cycling, Trekking and Trail Adventures in Istria

If you want to experience Istria from a unique perspective – get on a bike.
Istria offers more than 500 km of cycling routes that lead along the coast, through the green inland and to breathtaking viewpoints. Whether you’re looking for an easy family route or a challenging MTB climb, every ride becomes a new discovery.

The most famous route is the legendary Parenzana Trail, a former railway line connecting Trieste and Poreč. Today, it’s a scenic path through Grožnjan, Livade, Motovun and Vižinada – a journey through tunnels, bridges and landscapes that tell stories of the past.

For adventure seekers, inland Istria hides MTB trails through forests and valleys around Pazin, Žminj and Buzet, while coastal paths near Poreč, Rovinj and Medulin offer relaxed rides scented with pine and sea air.
The route to Cape Kamenjak is a must – where cycling becomes an adventure among waves and rocks.

Istria is also a haven for trail running and trekking enthusiasts.
Hundreds of marked trails stretch between vineyards, olive groves and stone villages. The Seven Waterfalls Trail near Buzet reveals the wild beauty of the Mirna River, while routes around Motovun and Livade offer peace and panoramic views.
In central Istria, Pazin Cave and Zarečki Krov blend nature and adventure, while the southern trails around Medulin and Cape Kamenjak invite you to walk by the sea at sunrise or sunset.
For hikers, Mount Učka and Ćićarija reward every step with unforgettable views – from the top of Vojak you can see all of Istria and the Kvarner Bay.

To experience Istria from another perspective, try horseback riding.
Several ranches and riding centres offer tours through olive groves, vineyards and forest paths – pure freedom in motion.

Sea Adventures in Istria

The Istrian coast, with its turquoise bays and scent of pine trees, is a playground for lovers of the sea, freedom and excitement.
Start your day with a kayak tour along the coasts of Pula, Rovinj or Cape Kamenjak, exploring sea caves and hidden coves from a whole new angle.

If you crave more action, try water-skiing, pedal boats, SUP (stand-up paddle) or romantic evening rides as the sun sets over the Adriatic.

For those who wish to explore the depths, diving in Istria reveals a world of silence and wonder.
The seabed near Rabac, Pula and Rovinj hides shipwrecks, caves and colourful reefs. Beginners can dive with certified instructors, while experienced divers can explore underwater archaeological sites and coral-covered wrecks.

Istria is also a land of wind and sails.
Sailing along the coast of Medulin, Premantura or Novigrad offers freedom and connection with the sea – the moment when wind, waves and horizon become one.
Adrenaline lovers can try windsurfing, parasailing or paragliding for a bird’s-eye view of Istria.

And for those seeking peace, fishing offers pure relaxation – from quiet mornings on the shore to sport fishing on the open sea.

Whether you paddle, sail, dive or simply float on calm waves – Istria invites you to experience the sea with all your senses.

Adrenaline Istria – For Those Who Seek Excitement

If you’re chasing that extra thrill, Istria won’t disappoint.
Fly above Pazin Cave on a zipline with a view of the medieval castle, ride a quad or buggy safari through dusty trails of inland Istria, or soar over the sea with paragliding and parasailing.

Try rock climbing on the cliffs of the Lim Channel, Dvigrad or Pazin, or test your limits at adventure parks like Glavani Park, Adrenaline Park Kringa and Sky Fox Poreč – perfect for families who love a challenge.

Fun and Theme Parks in Istria

Istria is also home to fantastic theme parks and family attractions.
Visit Papago Park, Dino Park Funtana or Paleo Park Bale for a day of fun and discovery.
History lovers can travel back in time at Sanc Michael Medieval Theme Park near Svetvinčenat, with knights, archery and horse carriages.
Art and culture enthusiasts will enjoy Verudela Art Park in Pula, Archaeological Park Vižula in Medulin and Arsia Mining Museum in Raša.
For a bit of mystery, Witch Mare’s House and Escape Castle Svetvinčenat bring legends to life.

And for the perfect summer refreshment, Aquapark Istralandia and Aquacolors Poreč promise hours of laughter, slides and water fun for the whole family.

Istria – A Land for the Active, Curious and Free

Whether you dive into the sea, fly above the hills, cycle through vineyards or relax in one of the parks – Istria is where adventure never ends.
Here, nature, culture and excitement live in harmony, and every day brings a new story.

Briskva Vacation Rentals Agency proudly recommends villas, holiday homes and apartments across Istria – your perfect starting point for an active holiday and authentic island discovery.

Istria is so much more than sun and sea – it is a peninsula of experiences that change with every season.
From sports challenges and outdoor adventures to festivals, concerts and wine walks – something exciting is happening in Istria all year long.

Whether you love the scent of the sea, the whisper of vineyards or the rhythm of music under the stars, you will always find a reason to return again and again.

Spring in Istria – Awakenings of Nature, Wine & Flavour

Spring in Istria brings the scent of fresh soil, the first farmers’ markets and an invitation to get active.
This is the perfect season for races, hiking tours and gastro events that blend nature, tradition and enjoyment.

In Central Istria, Fritaja festivals and spring “manjada” celebrations honour seasonal flavours and local gatherings over a glass of Malvasia. Delicious wild asparagus is prepared at the Šparogada festival in Kašćerga and in traditional taverns around Buzet, while Brtonigla lives in the rhythm of the Days of Wine & Olive Oil – a true celebration of heritage and taste.

In Poreč, Vinistra gathers winemakers from all over the region, offering visitors the chance to taste the best Istrian Malvasias, Terans and olive oils – a paradise for wine lovers and gourmets.
Wine & Walk events have become especially popular, delighting visitors from all over Europe. The Istria Wine & Walk in Buje and Viva Vino in Vižinada perfectly combine fine gastronomy and active leisure.

Participants walk through vineyards and olive groves, where winemakers and local producers offer tastings of wines, delicacies and homemade products at each stop.

For those seeking a sporting challenge, spring brings the legendary Istria100 by UTMB, attracting trail runners from around the world. Routes lead through mountains, vineyards and historic hilltop towns.
At the same time, cycling enthusiasts take part in the international marathon Istria GranFondo.

Summer in Istria – Sea, Music & Energy

Summer is when Istria lives at full intensity.

Every town hosts countless festivals, celebrations, sporting events and open-air concerts.
In Umag, the Sea Star Festival brings world-famous DJs, while the ATP Croatia Open Umag gathers elite tennis players and sports fans.

Poreč hosts the popular TunaLicious Festival, celebrating the flavours of the Adriatic through creative tuna dishes paired with local wines.
Recreation lovers join the Poreč Dolphin, a unique open-water swimming marathon for all generations.

Rovinj turns into a stage for the world-famous Salsa Festival, while Pula’s Arena and Cave Romane quarry become breathtaking concert venues under the stars.

The Pula Film Festival and the Ulysses Theatre Festival on Brijuni bring culture and art to life, attracting thousands of visitors each year.

Autumn in Istria – Wine Season, Aroma & Tradition

When vineyards turn golden and the air smells of must and truffles, Istria becomes a paradise for gourmets.

Autumn brings famous events such as the Prosciutto Fair in Tinjan, the Young Wine Festival in Svetvinčenat and the Grape Days in Buje. You’ll also find Wine & Walk events like Teran Wine & Walk Motovun and Wine & Walk by the Sea Novigrad, combining tasting, walking and the beauty of autumn colours.

Poreč hosts the prestigious Ironman 70.3, one of the most renowned triathlon events in Europe, attracting thousands of athletes and spectators.

Winter in Istria – The Warmth of Tradition & Advent Lights

Winter in Istria carries a special charm.

Though calmer, it brings joy, tradition and festive spirit to every corner of the peninsula.
Christmas markets and Advent events brighten Pula, Poreč and Motovun with ice rinks, local products and live music.

Carnival season in February brings laughter and colourful masks to the streets of Pula, Buzet and Labin, celebrating vibrant tradition and local humour.

Central Istria radiates warmth with events such as the Open Days of Istrian Agrotourisms, promoting rural hospitality and traditional cuisine, and the cheerful winter feast “Draga nam je zima dok kapuza ima!” – honouring cabbage, sausages, homemade bread and wine.

This is Istria at its most authentic – simple, welcoming and warm, just like its people.

Istria – A Land of Events & Experiences

From spring walks through vineyards to the aroma of autumn truffles, from summer concerts under the stars to winter Advent lights – something is always happening in Istria.

Whether you visit for sports, wine, gastronomy, culture or pure pleasure – Istria will surprise you every time.

Briskva Vacation Rentals Agency proudly recommends its villas, holiday homes and apartments across Istria – the perfect starting point for discovering authentic experiences, active holidays and festivals that connect people, flavours and emotions.