Istria County in Croatia is a region that often flies under the radar but offers a surprising variety of engaging tours that cater to different interests. From savoring local olive oils on a family farm to exploring the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic by kayak, Istria’s diverse landscape invites adventure, relaxation, and authentic local encounters. One of our favorites is the Buje: Istrian Family Farm with Walking Tour, Food, and Wine, which combines delicious local flavors with a chance to learn about sustainable farming practices. Whether you’re into wine, truffles, or outdoor adventures, Istria’s tours promise memorable experiences that reflect the region’s rich culture and natural beauty.
What makes Istria stand out are its variety of tailored experiences that highlight its culinary traditions, outdoor scenery, and maritime charm. We’ve selected ten of the best tours that showcase this diversity, from tranquil boat rides to adrenaline-pumping quad safaris. Each offers a unique perspective on the area, helping you find just the right fit for your travel style.
Quick Overview
In this list, you’ll find culinary and wine tours, such as the Buje farm experience, sea adventures like the glass-bottom boat, truffle hunting, and off-road adventures including quad safaris and buggy tours. For nature lovers, there’s also the full moon hiking tour, perfect for experiencing Istria after dark. Each experience is suited for different interests and activity levels, ensuring everyone finds something remarkable.
Now, let’s explore each of these tours in detail—highlighting what makes them special and why they deserve a spot on your itinerary.
1. Buje: Istrian Family Farm with Walking Tour, Food, and Wine
The Buje farm experience is a top choice for travelers interested in authentic Istrian food and wine. This tour offers an immersive visit to a family-owned farm, where you’ll enjoy a walking tour that introduces you to their sustainable farming methods. The highlight is a curated food and wine pairing, featuring local Istrian delicacies like prosciutto, cheeses, and regional wines.
What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to learn how world-class olive oil is produced—you’ll walk through lush orchards with 31 varieties of estate-grown fruits and see the process firsthand. A professional extra virgin olive oil tasting led by a certified sommelier is included, allowing you to appreciate the nuances of local oils and wines. Visiting the historic Palazzina Montebello adds a cultural touch to the experience, making it more than just a tasting.
With a 5/5 rating from 132 reviews and a reasonable price of $76 per person, this tour offers excellent value for those wanting a taste of traditional Istrian life. It’s perfect for food lovers and travelers curious about organic farming practices.
Bottom Line: An engaging, flavorful journey into Istria’s culinary roots, ideal for slow travelers who enjoy good food, wine, and learning about sustainable agriculture.
2. Pula Verudela: Glass-Bottom Boat and Swim with Fish Tour
For those who love the sea, the Glass-Bottom Boat and Swim with Fish tour offers a delightful peek into Croatian underwater life without getting wet from the boat. Priced at just $29 per person and boasting a 4.8/5 rating from 166 reviews, this trip provides a panoramic view of the Croatian coastline and islands from a comfortable boat with glass panels beneath.
The highlight is stopping at a secluded island where you can swim in temperate waters and feed the fish, making it a perfect activity for families or anyone wanting a relaxing day at sea. The boat tour also offers plenty of chances to spot shoals of fish and other marine creatures, all while enjoying the beautiful seascapes. The crew is friendly, and the boat is smooth, making it accessible even for first-time swimmers.
If you’re after a quick, affordable way to experience Croatia’s aquatic wonders, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s great for casual travelers who want a low-key adventure with plenty of Instagram-worthy moments.
Bottom Line: An easy, fun, and scenic boat trip that provides underwater views and swimming opportunities, ideal for families and sea lovers.
3. Livade: Guided Truffle Hunting Walking Tour
No trip to Istria would be complete without a truffle hunt—an experience that perfectly combines nature, cuisine, and local tradition. The Guided Truffle Hunting Walking Tour from Livade is a favorite for foodies and adventure seekers alike. For $53 per person, you’ll venture into the moist soil of the Motovun forest, accompanied by a guide featured in a New York Times article, who will teach you how to search for these elusive treasures with trained dogs.
What makes this tour special is the chance to feel like a true local truffle hunter, walking the forest with a knowledgeable guide who shares insights into the microclimate and ecosystem of the forest. You’ll pick up tips on how to teach dogs to locate truffles, and you’ll learn about the different types of truffles that grow in the region. After the hunt, you have the option to buy a meal bursting with truffle flavor at a nearby restaurant, making it a full culinary experience.
Rated 4.7/5 from 69 reviews, this tour is perfect for food lovers eager to go beyond tastings and into the woods. It’s an authentic way to connect with Istria’s culinary heritage and enjoy the thrill of the chase.
Bottom Line: A unique, hands-on adventure that offers a taste of local life and the chance to find your own culinary treasures in the forest.
4. Southern Istria Quad Safari tours
If you crave adrenaline, the Quad Safari tours are a highlight for active travelers. For around $119, you’ll enjoy an exciting ATV ride along the southern coast of Istria, with big, comfortable ATVs and a route that includes scenic views alongside the Adriatic.
Rated 5/5, these safaris are designed for a range of ages and experience levels, making them suitable for families or groups of friends. The tour includes a safety briefing and guides who are well-versed in the local terrain, giving you a true off-road experience. The itinerary covers multiple stops, including the charming village of Ližnjan, and ends back at the starting point.
What makes this tour stand out is its blend of adventure and scenery, giving you access to places you might not see on your own. It’s an energetic way to explore the countryside while enjoying the thrill of driving a powerful ATV.
Bottom Line: Perfect for thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts, this tour offers a fun, active way to explore Istria’s landscape with professional guidance.
5. Fažana/Pula: Buggy Sunset & Olive Oil Tasting Tour
For a combination of adventure, culture, and culinary delights, the Buggy Sunset & Olive Oil Tasting Tour is a standout. Priced at $403 per group (up to 2 people), this tour promises a quirky buggy ride that mixes some off-road excitement with visits to local olive oil fields.
During the day, you’ll craft your own adventure with multiple stops guided by a local expert, who shares stories about Istria’s traditions. The tour culminates with a sunset at a secret beach bar, providing a relaxing finish. The highlight is the award-winning olive oil tasting at the largest olive oil field in Istria, where you’ll learn what makes Istrian oil so special.
This tour is well-suited for those wanting a luxurious experience that combines scenery, gastronomy, and fun. The buggy is available for 2, 4, or 6 people, making it flexible for different groups.
Bottom Line: A memorable blend of adventure, flavor, and sunset views, ideal for couples or small groups wanting a rich, multi-sensory experience.
6. Fažana/Pula: Guided 2-Hour Istrian Escape Buggy Tour
For travelers who want a more extensive buggy experience, the Guided 2-Hour Istrian Escape offers a more in-depth adventure. This upgraded version of the classic buggy tour features more time on the trail, allowing you to explore hidden backroads and undiscovered places.
Rated highly by participants, this tour is suitable for families or groups looking for an active outing that goes beyond typical sightseeing. The itinerary includes many stops guided by local experts, giving you insight into Istria’s history and landscape. With options for 2, 4, or 6 persons per buggy, it’s flexible for different groups.
The emphasis is on experiencing authentic Istrian scenery while enjoying the thrill of off-road driving. The longer duration makes it perfect for those who want to see more than just the main roads.
Bottom Line: An extended, authentic buggy experience that uncovers the region’s lesser-known spots, suitable for adventure-minded travelers.
7. Fažana/Pula: Official Istra Buggy “Classico” Tour
The Official Istra Buggy “Classico” Tour is the signature Istrian off-road experience. This 90+ minute tour strikes a balance between local culture, history, and exploration in a fun, engaging format. You’ll drive a buggy through scenic backroads, stopping at hidden locations that reveal Istria’s authentic charm.
Rated highly, the tour is designed for groups up to six, making it ideal for families or friends. The guide provides many stops along the way, sharing stories about the region’s traditions. It’s a perfect choice for travelers who want a quick, energetic overview of Istria’s landscape and cultural sites.
What makes this tour appealing is its combination of off-road driving and cultural insight, wrapped in a manageable time frame. It’s a lively, memorable way to experience Istria’s lesser-seen regions.
Bottom Line: A lively, compact adventure for those seeking a taste of Istria’s countryside with cultural flavor.
8. Istria, Full Moon Hiking Tour
For the nature lovers and night owls, the Full Moon Hiking Tour offers a rare chance to experience Istria under the glow of the full moon. Lasting around four hours, this tour takes you through the peaceful forests near Buzet, with stunning night sky views and the serenity of the natural world after dark.
Guided walks include stops at mountain huts, where you can take photos and enjoy the ambiance of a quiet, star-lit landscape. The tour’s intimate setting makes it a perfect escape from daytime crowds, and the rustling leaves and night sounds create a peaceful atmosphere.
Rated 4.3/5, it’s well-suited for those comfortable with walking and interested in experiencing Istria’s natural beauty in a different light. The tour’s quiet pace allows for reflection and admiration of the night sky.
Bottom Line: An atmospheric, peaceful night trek that offers a fresh perspective on Istria’s landscape, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and star gazers.
9. Pula / Pješačana Uvala: Sunset SUP Tour – Explore & Chill
The Sunset SUP Tour combines stand-up paddleboarding with the magic of sunset in Pula’s calm waters. For 1.5 hours, you paddle through peaceful island-dotted waters, enjoying personalized guidance suitable for all skill levels. The tour is perfect for those who want a relaxed, scenic activity that ends with spectacular views.
Participants can expect to paddle through quiet coves, discover hidden spots, and capture memorable photos of the sunset. The tour emphasizes a small-group experience, so you can enjoy personalized attention and a tranquil atmosphere. As the sun dips, the colors of the sky reflect on the water, creating a truly beautiful setting.
Rated 4.3/5, this option suits beginners, families, or anyone wanting a calm, scenic activity. The paddleboarding experience is easy for most and a wonderful way to connect with Croatia’s coastal beauty.
Bottom Line: A serene, sunset paddle that offers a gentle, scenic adventure—perfect for unwinding and enjoying Croatia’s coastal magic.
10. Pula: Glow Kayak Night Tour – Cave and Underwater World
Finally, for an unforgettable experience, the Glow Kayak Night Tour offers a chance to paddle through glowing waters illuminated by LED lights beneath your kayak. At just $89 per person, this 1.5-hour tour takes you to explore the Buža Cave, which glows from below and echoes with your paddles’ sounds.
This tour is highly visual and atmospheric, emphasizing the surreal colors and sounds of the underwater world at night. The guide shares local stories and interesting facts, enriching the experience. The tour includes a short photo break in the cave, capturing the spectacular scene, and offers a tranquil, almost otherworldly way to see Pula’s coastline.
Rated without a specified rating, this experience appeals to adventure-seekers and those looking for a magical, immersive activity to cap off their trip. It’s suitable for all skill levels, as paddling is straightforward.
Bottom Line: An extraordinary night adventure that combines kayaking, natural beauty, and storytelling—a must-do for night-time explorers.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Istria County
Picking the best tour depends on your interests and activity level. If you love food and culture, the farm experience and olive oil tasting are excellent options. For outdoor enthusiasts, the quad safaris and buggy adventures offer adrenaline-fueled fun, while nature lovers might prefer the full moon hike.
Budget travelers will appreciate the boat tour and paddleboarding, which combine affordability with memorable scenery. For a special evening activity, the Glow Kayak offers a magical night experience.
Timing is also key—water-based tours are best in warmer months, while the full moon hike is ideal for a clear night. Book early during the high season (June to September), especially for popular activities like quad safaris and truffle hunting.
Final Thoughts
Istria offers a diverse selection of tours tailored for every interest—from culinary delights and maritime adventures to off-road thrills and night-time explorations. For a classic experience, the family farm tour and olive oil tastings provide authentic flavors and insights. Adventure travelers will enjoy the quad safaris and buggy tours, while nature lovers might opt for the full moon hike.
Knowing your interests and fitness level will help you pick the perfect experience. Many of these tours sell out quickly in peak season, so it’s wise to book early. Whatever your choice, Istria’s dynamic landscape and rich traditions promise a memorable journey off the typical tourist trail.