Coastal Trail
Istria

What's included

7 day adventure

5 hiking stages

Road book & GPX-files

accommodations

Accommodation

  • B&Bs and hotels

  • With private bathroom

  • ​Including daily breakfast

  • 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 and lunch pack: €300 / p
Book now

What can you expect

Discover South Istria on foot: a 110 km journey through nature and history
The Istria Coastal Trail is a 110 km walking route through southern Istria, ideal for those looking to experience a less crowded and more authentic journey on foot. Starting in the romantic town of Rovinj and ending in Medulin, the route is divided into five stages and combines the vibrant Istrian coastline with quiet inland countryside. Along the way, you pass some of the region’s most attractive destinations, including Bale, Fažana, Pula and Premantura, blending 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 well balanced and physically manageable, making the trail a good fit for active travellers who want a rewarding multi-day walk without going fully off-grid. The shortest stage runs from Fažana to Pula, leaving plenty of time to explore the city's impressive Roman heritage and lively historic centre.

Each day ends in carefully selected B&Bs and hotels, 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. Along the way, you experience some of Istria’s greatest highlights: from the cobbled streets of Rovinj and the historic city of Pula to the protected nature reserve of Cape Kamenjak.
Included
5 days of hiking in South Istria

5 days of hiking in South Istria

6 nights in B&Bs and hotels

6 nights in B&Bs and hotels

Delicious breakfast

Delicious breakfast

Detailed road book + GPX-files

Detailed road book + GPX-files

Pick-up & drop-off at the airport

Pick-up & drop-off at the airport

24/7 route assistance

24/7 route assistance

Weekly planning

Week planning day 7
Stage 1: Rovinj – Bale
  ± 21km      ± 250hm    


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: Bale – Fažana
  ± 26km      ± 160hm    


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: Fažana – Pula
  ± 16km      ± 110hm    


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: Pula – Premantura
  ± 23km      ± 370hm    


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: Premantura – Medulin
  ± 24km      ± 280hm    


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.

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) + €50 p.p.
  • Ljubljana (Slovenia) + €50 p.p.
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.