Hidden Corners of Istria: Secret Spots Beyond the Tourist Trail
While Istria’s coastal towns like Rovinj and Poreč steal the spotlight, some of the peninsula’s most captivating charm lies in its lesser-known villages, forested paths, and remote hilltops. For travelers seeking authenticity, peace, and something a little offbeat, the hidden corners of Istria offer unforgettable experiences—minus the crowds.
Here are some of Istria’s most enchanting off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Hum – The Smallest Town in the World
With only a handful of residents, Hum proudly holds the title of the smallest town in the world. Its stone houses, cobbled streets, and tiny church make it feel like time has stopped.
Grožnjan – The Town of Artists
Tucked into the hills of northwestern Istria, Grožnjan is a quiet village transformed into a bohemian haven. In summer, its narrow alleys fill with the sounds of jazz, painting classes, and art exhibitions.
Perfect for a slow morning stroll and a coffee with a view.
Kotli – Stone Mills and Natural Pools
Near Buzet lies Kotli, an abandoned village turned into a picturesque escape. The Mirna River cascades over stone steps, forming clear natural pools ideal for cooling off in summer.
Great for nature lovers and photographers.
Draguc – Istria’s Film Set
Often called the “Istrian Hollywood,” Draguc is a near-abandoned village that has served as a backdrop for many historical films. Its silent streets, crumbling facades, and hilltop setting give it a poetic, slightly surreal feel.
Sveti Petar u Šumi – Silence and Monastic Calm
This tiny inland village is home to a Pauline monastery with one of the most peaceful courtyards in Istria. Few tourists make it here, but those who do often find it unexpectedly moving.
Dvigrad – A Forgotten Medieval Town
Unlike restored castles and polished old towns, Dvigrad is a raw, abandoned medieval site where ivy covers ruins and silence reigns. Located near Kanfanar, it’s free to enter and ideal for a quiet exploration.
Raklja and Kalavojna Bay – Where Sea Meets Solitude
For a hidden beach day, Raklja on the eastern coast is a tiny village overlooking the Bay of Kalavojna. The rocky paths lead down to crystal-clear waters, surrounded by silence and wild herbs.
From ancient ruins to artist villages, natural pools to forgotten monasteries, Istria’s hidden corners invite you to slow down, look closer, and uncover the stories behind the silence.
Further reading suggestions
25.4.2025
Cape Marlera: Where the Wind Shapes the Coastline
On the far southeastern tip of Istria, near the quiet village of Ližnjan, lies Cape Marlera – a place where...
28.4.2025
Historic Charm: Exploring Istria’s Medieval Towns Together
Istria is not just about the sea—it’s a land of stories etched in stone, perched on hilltops, and whispered through...
6.5.2025
Cycling Labin to Rabac: Where Coastal Views Meet Mountain Trails
Cycling Labin to Rabac - On the eastern coast of Istria, the towns of Labin and Rabac offer a cycling...
