The picturesque Poreč is a popular tourist destination located in the heart of Istria’s western coast, where culture, tourism, sports, and entertainment thrive. A multi-awarded city applauded for its orderliness and cleanliness, this seaside town also flourishes with many attractions and activities for visitors, from beaches to historical landmarks, cultural events, and outdoor activities.
In addition to its famous UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back to the 6th century, Poreč comes to life throughout the year thanks to vibrant festivals and events, like the Poreč Open Air Festival, the Valamar Jazz Festival, and the Poreč Outdoor Festival. Its luxury hotels and villas attract travelers looking for a lavish holiday on the Adriatic. At the same time, its restaurants, cafes, and wine bars take diners on an exploration of Istrian cuisine.
Mixing history, culture, and the great outdoors, Poreč is a foolproof choice for boaters sailing the northern Adriatic.
History
This coastal town has a long history dating back to prehistoric times when the Illyrian tribe of Histri inhabited it. In the 2nd century BC, the Romans conquered Poreč, and it became an important port and trade center. As a result, the town was known as ‘Colonia Iulia Parentium’ and was a significant hub for olive oil and wine production.
During the Middle Ages, Poreč was ruled by various powers, including the Ostrogoths, the Byzantines, and the Franks. In the 13th century, the town came under the rule of the Venetian Republic and remained a part of the Venetian Empire for several centuries. Poreč experienced economic and cultural growth during this time, and many important buildings, such as the now UNESCO-protected Euphrasian Basilica, were constructed.
In the 19th century, Poreč became a part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and remained under its rule until the end of World War I. During this time, Poreč was first discovered as a popular holiday destination by the Austro-Hungarian aristocracy. However, tourism in Poreč took off in the 1950s and 1960s, becoming a popular summer resort for tourists from all over Europe.
The first hotels in Poreč were built in the early 20th century, and the construction of new hotels, campsites, and holiday resorts continued throughout the 1960s and 1970s, fueled by the growing demand for affordable summer holidays and the increasing popularity of package tours.
Poreč also became known as a center for sports and recreation thanks to its sports facilities, tennis courts, and golf courses. The town also developed a thriving cultural scene by establishing the Poreč Summer Festival in 1954, which still takes place every year and features music, theater, and dance performances.
Poreč continued to grow as a tourist destination in the 1980s and 1990s, with the development of new marinas and the expansion of the town's cultural and sports facilities. The collapse of Yugoslavia in the early 1990s and the subsequent war in Croatia had a significant impact on tourism in Poreč and the region as a whole, but the town has since recovered and continues to attract visitors from all over the world to its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and vibrant cultural scene.
Marinas
This town’s breathtaking coastline and clear waters make it an undeniable destination when sailing the Adriatic. The town has a few marinas that cater to boaters, like Marina Poreč. Located in the center of town in the southern part of the bay, this haven for sailors is open year-round, with 129 wet berths and all accompanying technical and sanitary infrastructure.
Marina Červar is another option for boaters, located within the Červar-Porat holiday resort about 6 km north of Poreč. This marina has 259 berths for boats from 3 to 25 meters. You can also visit Marina Parentiuma at the Zelena Laguna holiday resort, near Hotel Parentium, also 6 km from Poreč, with 184 berths for boats.
Well-protected from winds and waves and easy access to the town's attractions, Poreč's marinas are an excellent choice for exploring Croatia’s coastline.
Beaches
Poreč’s beaches do not disappoint, with some featuring a Blue Flag for outstanding sea quality! Like Plava Laguna or the Blue Lagoon, adorned with many Blue Flag beaches that are well-kept thanks to the holiday resort’s hotels and apartments.
Zelena Laguna, or the Green Lagoon, is no different, and Delfin beach is another Blue Flag winner that attracts sun-seekers to its crystal clear sea. Visitors can also enjoy various water sports activities here, such as jet skiing and parasailing.
Pical Beach, or Parentino beach, sits opposite the town center for stunning views of the Poreč old town. But don’t let the view fool you - this pebble beach is about a 10-minute walk away from the center, too. And if you’re looking for a sandy beach perfect for the family? Val Adria Sandy Family Beach is a white sandy beach that’s part of the Lanterna holiday resort. The 200-meter-long bay is also decorated with loungers, umbrellas, and a beach bar.
Restaurants
And where to eat? Considering you’ll be diving into Istrian cuisine, it’s only fair that we start with the best. The Michelin-recommended Sv. Nikola restaurant is a fine-dining gem on the seafront of Poreč, with an outdoor terrace looking out to St. Nicholas Island. Mixing traditional Italian and Croatian cuisine, diners can enjoy a seafood and meat-heavy menu with local specialties like Istrian prosciutto.
And then there is Spinnaker, located within the Valamar Riviera Hotel & Residence on the old town waterfront. Spinnaker’s award-winning chefs and sommeliers create a unique gourmet experience in Poreč with the freshest seafood, world-famous Istrian truffles, and top local or foreign wines recommended by your sommelier.
For something simpler, head to Wine Corner, a cozy wine bar serving quality Istrian wines and local tapas in the old town. And you don’t even need to leave your fine-dining palate at home, as the flavors of Istria can top any culinary list.
Attractions
You won’t be bored in Poreč, as this town offers much more than its well-kept marinas, pristine beaches, and culinary prowess. The historical attractions are what really shine.
The Euphrasian Basilica is Poreč’s most famous attraction. One of the most well-preserved examples of early Christian architecture and art in the Mediterranean has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. Built in the 6th century AD during the rule of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I and named after the bishop Euphrasius who sponsored its construction, this building is considered a masterpiece of Byzantine art and architecture. History buffs and art lovers are drawn to its basilica, featuring stunning mosaics, frescoes, and intricate carvings.
After you explore this Byzantine beauty, don’t forget to stroll around the old town, Poreč’s charming center adorned with narrow cobblestone streets and colorful houses. Walking on foot is the best way to stumble upon hidden alleyways and quaint shops and dive into local life. You’ll undoubtedly run into Marafor Square, an ancient site where the Roman Forum once stood, and public gatherings took place. Once upon a time, it was the showcase square for Emperor Augustus, and at that time, two temples stood here, one dedicated to Mars, the other to Neptune.
Poreč has several other historic landmarks and cultural attractions, including the fragments of the ancient Neptune Temple, the Romanesque House, which is the oldest preserved house in Poreč, the rustic 15th century House of Two Saints, and the Poreč Museum, located in the baroque palace of the Sinčić family since 1952. If you’re looking for one museum to visit, this one exhibits the collections of the Regional Archeological Museum of Istria (founded in 1884) and the City Museum for Arts and History (founded in 1926).
And if you’re looking to see more than ancient history?
And for a bit of an adventure? Baredine Cave is a geomorphological monument of nature in Poreč that has become popular with tourists. Featuring stalactites, stalagmites, and underground lakes, visitors can explore the cave on a guided tour that takes approximately 45 minutes and visit five beautifully decorated chambers.
And for the wine lovers, escape into the Poreč countryside and embark on the Istrian Wine Trail, a series of scenic routes that wind through local wineries and vineyards. Grape vines have been cultivated in Poreč since the time before Christ. Stone monuments from the Roman Empire confirm the existence of grape vines and grape harvesting thanks to its fertile soil and mild Mediterranean climate. Take this trail to sample traditional Istrian wine and cuisine, and enjoy stunning views of the rolling hills and vineyards.
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