Coastal Trail
Istria

What's included

9 day adventure

7 hiking stages

Road book & GPX-files

accommodations

Accommodation

  • Guest houses & apartments

  • With private bathroom

  • ​With fully equipped kitchen

  • Within walking distance of shops and restaurants

Dates

  • Trail accessible from April to October

Prices

  • Self-guided Istria Coastal Trail: €850 / p
  • Optional luggage transfer: €300 / p
Book now

What can you expect

Discover South Istria on foot: a 190 km journey through nature and history
The Istria Coastal Trail is a 190 km circular route through southern Istria, ideal for those looking to experience a less crowded and more authentic pilgrimage trail. Starting and ending in Pula, the route is typically divided into seven stages and links vibrant Istrian coastline with quiet inland countryside. Along the way, you pass some of the region’s most attractive destinations, like Fažana and Premantura, combining open sea views with authentic rural landscapes and small-town life.

The terrain is varied but accessible, with a mix of gravel paths, forest tracks and secondary roads. The stages are fairly long and physically demanding, but not extreme, making it a good fit for active travellers who want a multi-day challenge without going fully off-grid.

Each day ends in carefully selected guest houses and apartments, where comfort and a warm, local atmosphere take priority. Expect private and small-scale accommodations, good food nearby, and the chance to properly recover before the next stage.

Walking the Istria Coastal Trail is a rewarding way to experience Croatia. It allows you to travel at a slower pace and truly absorb the surroundings, discovering places you would otherwise miss.
Included
7 days of hiking in South Istria

7 days of hiking in South Istria

Detailed road book + GPX-files

Detailed road book + GPX-files

8 nights in guest houses/apartments

8 nights in guest houses/apartments

24/7 route assistance

24/7 route assistance

Pick-up & drop-off at the airport

Pick-up & drop-off at the airport

Kayak safari or relaxing massage

Kayak safari or relaxing massage

Weekly planning

Week planning day 7
Stage 1: Pula – Premantura
  ± 23km      ± 381hm    


The first stage of the Istria Coastal Trail takes you from Pula to the southernmost village of Premantura, following scenic coastal paths and peaceful Mediterranean landscapes. Highlights include the Church of Our Lady of the Sea, the unique ship-shaped Church of St. Nicholas, the tranquil Soline Forest Park and the historic Cave Romane quarry. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming villages like Vinkuran and Banjole, before a final climb reveals panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea on one side and the Istrian countryside on the other.

Week planning day 7
Stage 2: Premantura – Ližnjan
  ± 25,7km      ± 344hm    


The second stage of the Istria Coastal Trail spans 27 km, taking you along the dramatic southern tip of the peninsula. The route climbs to the Kamenjak viewpoint for breathtaking sea views before looping along Cape Kamenjak back toward Premantura. Then you continue through Pomer toward Medulin, featuring the Archaeological Park Vižula, a renovated windmill and the twin-towered Church of Our Lady of Health. The stage concludes in Ližnjan, where the Church of St. Martin and its bell tower overlook the village.

Week planning day 7
Stage 3: Ližnjan – Marčana
  ± 28,9km      ± 377hm    


Stage three of the Istria Coastal Trail leads from Ližnjan to Marčana, combining rugged coastline and quiet inland paths. The route begins towards Kuje Bay, known for its wild beauty and local legends, before following the indented coast with stunning sea views and hidden coves. Leaving the coast behind, the trail continues through peaceful forests and traditional villages such as Šišan, Valtura, and Muntić, where historic churches and authentic Istrian atmosphere can be discovered. A highlight is the archaeological site of Nesactium, the oldest known settlement in Istria.

Week planning day 7
Stage 4: Marčana – Rakalj
  ± 24,7km      ± 485hm    


Stage four of the Istria Coastal Trail takes you from Marčana to the picturesque village of Rakalj, passing through peaceful countryside and historic settlements. Highlights include the quiet hilltop village of Mutvoran, rich in medieval heritage, and Krnica, offering beautiful views over the Kvarner Bay and access to a charming fishing port. The route continues through unspoiled nature and rolling landscapes, with stops at traditional churches and scenic viewpoints. As you approach Rakalj, the rugged terrain creates a striking atmosphere, leading to the historic site of Stari Rakalj.

Week planning day 7
Stage 5: Rakalj – Vodnjan
  ± 32km      ± 303hm    


The fifth and longest stage of the Istria Coastal Trail covers 32 km, leading from Rakalj inland to Vodnjan. Leaving the coast behind, the route passes through peaceful countryside, green landscapes, and traditional villages such as Hreljići, Filipana and Loborika. Along the way, you encounter historic churches, quiet forest trails and authentic Istrian scenery, with highlights including the House of Cycling in Loborika and several cultural landmarks in Vodnjan. The journey concludes at the Church of the Immaculate Conception (Concetta), built on the foundations of an ancient oil mill.

Week planning day 7
Stage 6: Vodnjan – Barbariga
  ± 28km      ± 196hm    


Stage six of the Istria Coastal Trail begins in Vodnjan and follows a scenic 28 km route toward Barbariga. Highlights include the Church of St. Blaise, known for its unique collection of relics, as well as charming landmarks such as the Bradamante Palace. The trail leads through olive groves, vineyards and traditional dry stone landscapes, passing archaeological sites like Guran and Roman villa remains near Gajana. As the route descends toward the coast, you are rewarded with beautiful views of the Adriatic Sea and the Brijuni Islands, ending the day at the historic site of Betiga.

Week planning day 7
Stage 7: Barbariga – Pula
  ± 30km      ± 221hm    


The final stage of the Istria Coastal Trail begins at the peaceful shrine of St. Foška near Batvači and leads to the historic city of Pula. This scenic route passes through green countryside, traditional landscapes with kažuni (dry stone huts), and charming villages like Peroj. Following the coastline, you reach the fishing town of Fažana before continuing toward Štinjan. The stage ends in Pula, where iconic landmarks such as the Pula Amphitheater, the Temple of Augustus and the Arch of the Sergii offer a memorable cultural finish to a 193 km pilgrimage.

Practical

What do you need
  • Hiking shoes
  • Backpack
  • Camelbak and/or water bottle
  • Rain coat
  • GPS
  • First aid kit
  • Swimming clothes
  • Sun cream
  • Mosquito repellent
How do you get here
You can fly to multiple airports and we provide pick-up and drop-off services at each one:
  • Pula (Croatia)
  • Rijeka (Croatia)
  • Trieste (Italy)
  • Zagreb (Croatia)
  • Ljubljana (Slovenia)
You can travel with several airline companies: Find and book the best flights for you with Google Flights.
Payment terms
A deposit of 30% must be paid to complete your reservation.

The remaining amount must be paid at least 30 days before arrival.

For a booking within 30 days before arrival, the full amount must be paid immediately.