Rovinj

Written by Keith Roberts, Marika Maslanka
09/09/2025
Stunning aerial view of Rovinj's historic peninsula with red rooftops by the Adriatic Sea in Croatia.
Riedelmax ., Pexels

Rovinj is a picturesque coastal town on Croatia's Istrian peninsula, renowned for its charming Old Town, rich history, and vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere. It provides a harmonious blend of cultural discovery, outdoor activities, and serene beach relaxation.

The Old Town, with its bustling harbor and main square, serves as a central hub for socializing, offering numerous seafront bars and restaurants. The Riva promenade and the Mulini area near the Old Town also feature lively spots for drinks and cultural events.

Top 5 Things to do in Rovinj

Visitors to Rovinj can immerse themselves in historical exploration, enjoy active pursuits within a protected forest park, embark on scenic boat excursions, and savor the rich local gastronomy.

1. Wander through Rovinj Old Town

Stepping into Rovinj's Old Town feels like traversing a living museum. Its charming, car-free cobblestone streets, reminiscent of Venetian architecture, lead to hidden squares and artisan boutiques. Following the main artery, Grisia Street, reveals a vibrant display of art galleries and shops, eventually culminating at the iconic Church of St. Euphemia. Exploring the waterfront promenade offers picturesque views of the harbor and colorful buildings, especially as the day winds down.

Cost: Free to explore. Guided walking tours are available, starting from approximately €0.10 (due to local laws, often tip-based), or private tours from around €70 per group.

Transport: The Old Town is pedestrian-only and easily accessible by walking from anywhere in central Rovinj. Parking is available on the outskirts for those arriving by car, with the Old Town being car-free.

2. Ascend St. Euphemia's Church Bell Tower

Perched atop the highest point of the Old Town, the Church of St. Euphemia is Rovinj's most prominent landmark. While the Baroque church itself is free to enter, climbing the 61-meter bell tower, modeled after St. Mark's Campanile in Venice, offers unparalleled panoramic views of Rovinj, the Adriatic Sea, and the surrounding islands. The narrow, winding steps lead to a breathtaking vista, providing a unique perspective of the town's charming terracotta rooftops and the endless blue horizon.

Cost: Entrance to the church is free. A small fee is required to climb the bell tower, typically a few euros.

Transport: Located within the Old Town, the church is reached by walking up cobblestone streets.

3. Explore Golden Cape Forest Park (Zlatni Rt)

Just south of Rovinj, the Golden Cape Forest Park (Zlatni Rt or Punta Corrente) is a protected natural oasis offering a refreshing escape. This expansive park is ideal for various outdoor activities. You can rent a bicycle and pedal along scenic paths through ancient oak and cypress trees, or enjoy a leisurely walk. The park features numerous pebble beaches and secluded coves, such as Lone Bay, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing by the crystal-clear waters. An old quarry within the park also offers opportunities for free climbing.

Cost: Free to enter. Bicycle rentals are available at various points in Rovinj, with costs varying but generally starting from around €10-€15 for a few hours.

Transport: The park is about a 15-20 minute walk from Rovinj's town center and is car-free, making it accessible by foot or bike. Taxi services are available to the park's entrance, with costs varying by distance.

4. Embark on a Boat Trip to the Archipelago or Lim Fjord

Rovinj's coastal setting makes boat trips an essential experience. Numerous excursions depart from the harbor, offering opportunities to explore the scenic Rovinj archipelago, visit nearby islands like Red Island (Crveni Otok) or St. Catherine Island, or cruise into the tranquil Lim Fjord. Many tours include swimming stops in secluded bays, providing a chance to enjoy the clear Adriatic waters. Sunset dolphin watching tours are also popular, offering a magical end to the day as you observe marine life against the backdrop of a vibrant sunset.

Cost: Prices vary widely depending on the duration and type of trip. Group boat tours typically range from €15-€50 per person for half-day trips (e.g., Lim Fjord, Red Island, lunch included). Sunset dolphin watching tours can be around €30-€40 per person. Private boat rentals start from approximately €170 for an hour.

Transport: Boat trips depart from Rovinj Port (Delfin Pier) or other specific departure points. These are generally within walking distance of the Old Town or a short taxi ride from accommodations.

5. Savor Istrian Culinary Delights

Istria is a renowned culinary region, and Rovinj offers a fantastic opportunity to experience its flavors. The local gastronomy is heavily influenced by Italian cuisine, featuring fresh seafood, exquisite truffles, high-quality olive oils, and fine wines. Exploring the daily market near the Old Town provides a glimpse into local produce. Indulge in a seafood meal at one of the many waterfront restaurants, try dishes infused with local truffles, or visit a nearby winery or olive oil producer for a tasting experience. Many restaurants offer alfresco dining with views of the sea, enhancing the dining experience.

Cost: Costs vary greatly depending on the restaurant and meal choice. A typical meal can range from €20-€50 per person. Wine and olive oil tastings, or truffle hunting experiences, usually involve a separate fee, which can be around €30-€100+ depending on the tour/tasting.

Transport: Restaurants are predominantly located within the Old Town and along the waterfront, easily accessible on foot. Culinary tours or visits to specific wineries/producers in the wider Istrian region may require booking transport (taxi, private transfer, or organized tour bus) with prices varying based on distance and service.

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