Istria County, with its rugged coastline, charming hilltop towns, and fragrant olive groves, offers a wealth of engaging tours and experiences. It’s the kind of place where food, wine, and scenery come together in a way that makes every outing memorable. We particularly love the Buje: Istrian Family Farm with Walking Tour, Food, and Wine for its authentic taste of local farming practices and the chance to sample world-class olive oils. Meanwhile, the Pula Verudela: Glass-Bottom Boat and Swim with Fish Tour offers a fun, accessible way to explore Croatia’s vibrant sea life without getting your hair wet. Whether you’re after culinary delights, outdoor thrills, or cultural insights, Istria has a tour for you.
Quick Overview
This guide features a variety of tours and experiences tailored to different interests: from food and wine tastings, adventure sports, to guided walks and family-friendly parks. Expect options like olive oil tasting, snorkeling, truffle hunting, and quad safaris. For those seeking relaxation, there are sunset paddleboard tours, while outdoor lovers can explore full moon hikes or uncover small towns like Hum. Now, let’s explore each experience in detail.
1. Buje: Istrian Family Farm with Walking Tour, Food, and Wine
At number 1 on our list is the Istrian Family Farm in Buje, a perfect blend of history, flavors, and scenic beauty. This tour offers a walking tour through a working estate where you’ll learn about sustainable farming practices that produce top-quality olive oil. You’ll sample a curated food and wine pairing featuring local Istrian delicacies, while a certified sommelier guides you through the nuances of the region’s extra virgin olive oil. The visit also includes a stroll through the orchard with 31 varieties of farm-grown fruits, providing a true taste of local agriculture. The historic Palazzina Montebello adds a touch of cultural charm to this experience.
This tour is highly rated (5/5 from 132 reviews) and offers excellent value at $76 per person. It’s ideal for food lovers, aspiring oenologists, or anyone wanting an authentic slice of Istrian rural life. The combination of tasting, learning, and relaxed walks makes it a well-rounded experience.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in food, wine, and local farming, this immersive farm tour offers a genuine and flavorful introduction to Istria.
2. Pula Verudela: Glass-Bottom Boat and Swim with Fish Tour
Number 2 on our list is the Glass-Bottom Boat and Fish Swim Tour, a lively way to explore Croatia’s rich marine environment. For just $29, this tour features a panoramic boat ride with a glass bottom, allowing you to see the seabed and marine life without getting wet. The boat stops at a secluded island where you can swim with the fishes, feed them, and simply enjoy the calm, clear waters. With over 160 reviews rating it 4.8/5, it’s a popular choice for families and solo travelers alike.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of spectacular coastline views and interactive sea life encounters. It’s perfect for those who want a quick, affordable excursion that offers a taste of Croatia’s underwater world. The relaxed pace makes it accessible for all ages and fitness levels.
Bottom Line: A straightforward, fun way to enjoy the Croatian sea, especially if you’re new to snorkeling or just want a scenic boat experience.
3. Aquapark Istralandia Entrance Tickets
If you’re traveling with kids or simply love water parks, number 3 is the Istralandia Aquapark. With a rating of 4.4/5 from 336 reviews, this attraction offers a full day of water-filled fun. For $42 per person, visitors can try out all the water slides, relax in beautiful pools, and enjoy a lively entertainment program designed for both kids and adults.
What makes Istralandia stand out is its variety of rides and pools, providing entertainment for all ages. It’s an excellent choice for families needing a break from sightseeing or those who want to cool off on a hot summer day. The park’s well-maintained facilities and friendly staff ensure a hassle-free experience.
Bottom Line: For a day of carefree splashing and sliding, Istralandia offers unbeatable value and fun for all ages.
4. Livade: Guided Truffle Hunting Walking Tour
Number 4 is the Guided Truffle Hunting Walking Tour, a must for foodies wanting to experience Istria’s famous truffles firsthand. Starting in Livade, this tour takes you into the Motovun forest, where trained dogs help locate these elusive fungi. You’ll learn about the microclimate and ecosystem that make Istrian truffles so prized.
The guide, featured in a New York Times article, shares insider tips on truffle hunting and dog training. After the hunt, you’ll visit a local restaurant to enjoy a meal bursting with truffle flavor. At $53, it’s a memorable, authentic experience for culinary enthusiasts. Reviewers praise the guide’s knowledge and the hands-on nature of the tour.
Bottom Line: For a genuine taste of Istrian gastronomy, this truffle hunt combines outdoor adventure with culinary discovery.
5. Southern Istria Quad Safari tours
For the thrill-seekers, number 5 is the Quad Safari, rated 5/5. This off-road adventure takes you along the stunning Adriatic coast on a comfortable ATV. With durations between 1.5 and 2.5 hours, the tours are suitable for all levels, with safety briefings and expert guidance.
The tour emphasizes scenic coastal views and adventure riding. The company’s pride is their big, comfortable ATVs and their commitment to a fun, safe experience. The itinerary includes stops at scenic viewpoints, with plenty of opportunities for photos and quick rest breaks.
Bottom Line: If you’re after adrenaline and coastal views, this quad safari balances excitement and scenery perfectly.
6. Rovinj: 4-Hour Kayak Rental – Islands, Sea and Snorkeling
Number 6 is the 4-Hour Kayak Rental, offering a self-guided way to explore the Croatian coast. For only $25 per person, you’ll paddle through crystal-clear waters, discovering the Red Island and its natural beauty. The rental includes snorkeling gear, so you can get up close with marine life.
This experience is perfect for independent travelers or those who want flexible time on the water. The calm waters and scenic surroundings make it suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. It’s a great way to combine exercise with sightseeing at your own pace.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, flexible option to explore Croatia’s islands and underwater world without a guide.
7. Fazana: Taxi to Sveti Jerolim island
Number 7 is the Taxi to Sveti Jerolim, a private boat ride from Fazana. For $153 per group (up to six), you can reach one of the best snorkeling and diving spots in southern Istria. The island boasts diverse flora and fauna and is pet-friendly, making it ideal for families or travelers with pets.
This experience offers a personalized, relaxed alternative to larger tours, with plenty of time to explore and snorkel. It’s particularly suited for those who love quiet beaches, marine exploration, and avoiding crowded spots.
Bottom Line: For a private, flexible day on the water exploring marine biodiversity, this taxi ride is an excellent choice.
8. Fažana/Pula: Buggy Sunset & Olive Oil Tasting Tour
Number 8 is the Buggy Sunset & Olive Oil Tasting Tour, a blend of adventure, culture, and stunning scenery. For $403 per group, up to 2 people, you get a guided buggy ride through olive groves and coastal roads, ending at a secret beach bar for sunset viewing. Along the way, you’ll enjoy olive oil tastings from the largest olive oil field in Istria.
The tour’s unique appeal lies in its combination of off-road driving and culture. It’s perfect for couples or small groups seeking an intimate experience with high-end touches. The sunset moment is especially memorable, providing perfect photo ops.
Bottom Line: If you’re after an exclusive, scenic adventure with delicious tastings, this buggy sunset tour is hard to beat.
9. Fažana/Pula: Guided 2-Hour Istrian Escape Buggy Tour
Number 9 is the Guided 2-Hour Istrian Escape Buggy Tour. For $286 per group, it offers a longer, more immersive ride than the previous. Expect more time on the trail, discovering hidden locations and local backroads with a knowledgeable guide. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a more in-depth off-road experience.
Reviews highlight its authenticity and the variety of stops that reveal Istria’s less touristy side. The tour is perfect for adventure lovers and those wanting a personalized exploration of the landscape.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those who want a deeper, more connected off-road experience with a local guide.
10. Fažana/Pula: Official Istra Buggy “Classico” Tour
The Istra Buggy “Classico” at number 10 combines off-road driving with a focus on culture and local secrets. Lasting around 90 minutes, it offers a balanced mix of scenic routes, historical sites, and hidden spots. The tour is suitable for families and groups looking for a short but impactful adventure.
Reviews point to its well-paced itinerary and friendly guides, making it straightforward and enjoyable. It’s an excellent way to see Istria’s less visible side in a compact timeframe.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a shorter, lively buggy experience that touches on culture and nature.
11. Istria, Full moon hiking tour
Number 11 is the Full Moon Hiking Tour, rated 4.3/5. For about four hours, you’ll explore the skies above Žbevnica near Buzet, enjoying stargazing and serene night scenery. The tour combines gentle walking with breathtaking views of the night sky and the landscape.
It’s a quiet, contemplative experience, best suited for night owls and those wanting a different perspective on Istria’s natural beauty. The atmosphere during moonlit moments is unforgettable, especially as you pause at scenic viewpoints.
Bottom Line: For a peaceful, scenic experience under the stars, this full moon hike is an original and calming option.
12. Istria: Unknown Istria and “World’s Smallest City” Hum
Our number 12 takes you through some less-traveled but fascinating spots like Hum, Buzet, Draguc, and Beram. This tour provides a cultural and architectural look at medieval towns, famous frescoes, and the smallest city in the world. For $146, you see Hum’s tiny streets and learn why it’s called the “smallest city in the world,” along with visits to Buzet, the “City of Truffles,” and Draguc, “Istrian Hollywood.”
Although reviews are unavailable, the detailed itinerary promises an insightful day into Istria’s hidden history and quirky charm.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history buffs or anyone curious about Istria’s lesser-known towns and stories.
13. Pula / Pješačana Uvala: Sunset SUP Tour – Explore & Chill
Finally, the Sunset SUP Tour offers a peaceful way to enjoy golden hour on the sea. For about 1.5 hours, paddle at your own pace in calm waters dotted with islands. No experience is necessary, making it accessible for beginners. The tour includes scenic views, photo stops, and the chance to snack and relax as the sun sets.
It’s ideal for those who want a personal, relaxed experience, capturing the beauty of Istria’s coastline as the day ends.
Bottom Line: For a tranquil, scenic paddle, this small-group sunset tour is a memorable way to end your day.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Choosing the perfect experience in Istria depends largely on your interests and travel style. If you’re passionate about food and wine, the farm tour provides a deep dive into local produce. For outdoor lovers, the quad safaris or full moon hikes offer adrenaline or serenity in natural settings. Families or those seeking leisure might enjoy the aquapark, while adventure travelers will find plenty of excitement with snorkeling or buggy rides.
Consider your budget, fitness level, and interest in local culture or outdoor activities. Booking early is wise during peak months (June to September), especially for popular tours like truffle hunting or quad safaris.
In summary, Istria offers a diverse array of tours and experiences sure to suit any traveler. From the culinary delights of the farm tour to the thrill of quad safaris, from seaside kayaking to stargazing under a full moon, this region truly has a lot to offer. For those seeking a taste of authentic local life, the olive oil farm and truffle hunting are top picks. Adventure seekers will appreciate the quad tours, while families will enjoy the aquapark.
Whatever your interests, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these enriching and memorable Istrian experiences.