Best of Motovun

Top itineraries and travel advice in and around Motovun
One of Istria’s most captivating villages, Motovun has a vibrant walled center with a mix of Romanesque and Gothic buildings that house colorful artist studios, restaurants, and boutiques. Beyond the medieval ramparts encircling the town, Motovun enjoys hilltop views overlooking a lush river valley. Despite the village’s small size (population just over 500), there’s much to do here, from indulging in great Istrian cuisine to heading off for outdoor adventures in the surrounding countryside.   

Previous kimkim travelers have gotten the lay of the land on walks along Motovun’s town walls. Built by the Venetians in the 14th century, these thick defenses provide sweeping views over the Mirna River Valley, as well as glimpses of the hidden gardens maintained by locals. Motovun is well-placed for truffle hunting excursions, and you can learn all about Istria’s three black truffle species and its even more highly prized white truffles on a mushroom hunt with a guide and breks (dogs). There’s also excellent cycling in the area: the Parenzana Bike Trail, which traverses three countries, passes nearby.
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The hilltop villages of Istria
The Best Things to Do in Istria

Istria is Croatia's largest peninsula, sitting in the country's northwest corner near Italy and Slovenia. Throughout the centuries, it's been ruled by the Venetian Republic, Italy, and the Austrian Empire, to name a few. With so many different cultural influences, you have a unique and scenic landscape filled with olive groves, vineyards, forests with truffles, beaches, Roman ruins, grand villas, fishing ports, national parks, and more.

Istrian rolling hills and vineyards, Croatia
Map of Cycling in Croatia's Istrian Peninsula - 7 Days
Cycling in Croatia's Istrian Peninsula - 7 Days

Pedal through the vineyards, olive groves, and lavender fields of Istria's rolling landscape on this week-long cycling tour. Reminiscent of Tuscany, this part of Croatia offers a slower pace of life with its medieval hilltop villages, charming seaside towns, and rich, flavorful food. You'll sample wines and olive oils, visit ancient Roman ruins, and bask on sunny pebble beaches between tranquil rides through the countryside.

The ancient hilltop city of Motovun
Map of Highlights of Croatia: Zagreb, Istria, Plitvice & Dalmatia - 14 Days
Highlights of Croatia: Zagreb, Istria, Plitvice & Dalmatia - 14 Days

This 14-day adventure covers the highlights of Croatia from north to south, all the way from the Dalmatian Coast to the inland national parks. You'll leave no stone unturned as you stroll the cobbled streets of ancient cities like Split, Dubrovnik, and Trogir. Discover culture and history in Zagreb, visit the waterfall-filled national parks of Plitvice and Krka, go truffle hunting in Istria, and meet the locals with an authentic family farm experience in the Croatian countryside.

Red-roofed homes of Motovun, a hill town in the the Istrian peninsula
Map of Unique Highlights of Croatia: Motovun, Pula, Grabovac, Trogir, & Hvar - 10 Days
Unique Highlights of Croatia: Motovun, Pula, Grabovac, Trogir, & Hvar - 10 Days

This 10-day itinerary highlights some of Croatia's more popular attractions, including the medieval hill town of Motovun and the "Adriatic Pearl," Dubrovnik, with a unique twist. For example, you'll venture into the romantic Istrian peninsula to seek out the prized truffle and explore Dubrovnik's limestone-paved streets on a private tour of two of the country's most esteemed artists. You'll also discover trendy cafés in Zagreb, marvel at Plitvice Lakes' enchanting beauty, listen to Zadar's Sea Organ, and visit famed Diocletian's Palace in Split.

Colorful Harbor of Lošinj
Discover Croatia's Istria Region - 8 Days

This trip focuses on the cultural and culinary delights of the Istria region in Croatia, starting with a road trip through the hilly medieval villages of Grožnjan and Motovun. Enjoy a boat trip to the islands of Brijuni National Park, explore the coastal cities of Rovinj, Pula, and Opatija, and discover the untouched scenery of Cres and Lošinj Island. Along the way, you'll explore the region's culinary scene with visits to a regional winery and a local distillery, as well as an eco goat farm, an olive grove, and a wool museum.

A young boy swims underwater in the crystalline Adriatic Sea
Map of Croatia Family Vacation: Zagreb, Rovinj, Split, Hvar, & Dubrovnik - 12 Days
Croatia Family Vacation: Zagreb, Rovinj, Split, Hvar, & Dubrovnik - 12 Days

Bring the family and spend 12 days exploring Croatia's top historical and cultural sites, featuring two nights at the kid and parent-friendly Hotel Amarin outside Rovinj. You'll begin in the capital of Zagreb before working your way around the charming Istrian peninsula from Motovun and Pula to Rovinj and nearby Park šuma Zlatni Rt. Then it's off to discover the Dalmatian coast: listen to Zadar's Sea Organ, visit an emperor's palace in Split, and swim in an emerald-green lagoon at Krka National Park, ending your stay amid secret stairwells, imposing walls, and the gleaming streets of Dubrovnik.

The medieval hilltop town of Motovun lights up at night
Istria to Dubrovnik: Land & Sea - 11 Days

Enjoy this 11-day itinerary from Rovinj to explore the romantic countryside of the Istrian peninsula before continuing down the Dalmatian coast to end in Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic." You'll also spend five relaxing days aboard your personal sailboat for total island immersion from the larger, more populated islands of Hvar and Korčula, to the nature-focused Mljet. Drink Istrian wine and eat truffle-infused dishes in Motovun, marvel at Split's stone sphinx brought back from Egypt 3,500 years ago, and discover the 16th-century stone walls of Dubrovnik's Lovrijenac and Revelin fortresses.

Meet the farm animals at Medena Dolina (Honey Valley), near Dubrovnik
Map of Croatia Family Vacation: Zagreb, Rovinj, Split, Hvar, & Dubrovnik - 13 Days
Croatia Family Vacation: Zagreb, Rovinj, Split, Hvar, & Dubrovnik - 13 Days

From Zagreb's cobblestone streets to Dubrovnik's monumental encircling walls, this 13-day trip is the perfect family-friendly Croatian adventure. Discover the Roman ruins of Pula and the wonderful amenities of Hotel Amarin just outside Rovinj in Istria, then venture south along the Adriatic coastline to Zadar, Krka National Park, and the coastal city of Split with two nights spent along the Hvar Riviera. Finish in the "Adriatic Pearl," and let the kids roam the limestone-paved streets and climb the centuries-old stone ramparts of the city's many fortresses.

A father and daughter duo ride the tree-lined trails of Park šuma Zlatni Rt near Rovinj
Map of Croatia Family Vacation: Zagreb, Rovinj, Split, Hvar, & Dubrovnik - 14 Days
Croatia Family Vacation: Zagreb, Rovinj, Split, Hvar, & Dubrovnik - 14 Days

Spend two weeks exploring Croatia with the family on this packed 14-day itinerary. Stroll the pedestrian-friendly streets of Zagreb's historic neighborhoods, hunt for mushrooms alongside truffle-sniffing dogs in Istria, then continue down the Dalmatian coast to spend time in the ancient Roman city of Split and the famous island town of Hvar. Let the kids peer off Dubrovnik's imposing fortress walls and wander tucked-away stairwells and alleys and if they're up for it, enjoy a horse (or pony) ride at charming Honey Valley.

Mom and kids look over Dubrovnik's Old Town from Srđ Mountain
Map of Croatia Family Vacation: Zagreb, Rovinj, Split, Hvar, & Dubrovnik - 15 Days
Croatia Family Vacation: Zagreb, Rovinj, Split, Hvar, & Dubrovnik - 15 Days

This complete 15-day family vacation covers Croatia's highlights from the dynamic capital of Zagreb to the fortressed city of Dubrovnik with an exciting focus on activities sure to keep the children entertained. From one end of the country to the next, you'll explore the charming hilltop towns and Venetian-influenced cities of the Istrian peninsula, travel down the length of the sunny Dalmatian coast with two nights spent on Hvar Island, and discover the delights of the hinterland beyond the ancient city of Split. You'll spend two relaxing nights at Hotel Amarin—a haven for families, work together as a team to solve puzzles and clues to "escape" a room in Split, and kayak the Adriatic Sea to the Pakleni Islands archipelago.

The stunning Old Town of Rovinj along the coast of Istria
Best of Croatia: Pula to Dubrovnik - 15 Days

Explore the highlights of Croatia as you cross the country starting in the Istrian Peninsula in the north and working your way down the Dalmatian Coast to the "Adriatic Pearl", Dubrovnik. Along the way, you will explore ancient Roman ruins, medieval fortressed towns, and beautiful national parks. You will also bike, hike, kayak, and zip-line on this tour that highlights both adventure and cultural discovery.

croatia
Map of Best of Croatia: Istria to Dalmatia -14 days
Best of Croatia: Istria to Dalmatia -14 days

Get ready for an immersive 14-day itinerary that will take you through almost every region in Croatia. It begins in the culturally rich capital of Zagreb, continues through the Istrian Peninsula, and finishes with an epic journey down the beautiful Dalmatian Coast. You'll end the trip in Dubrovnik, one of the most awe-inspiring ancient fortress cities in Europe.

Boardwalks around Plitvice Lakes
Map of Best of Croatia: Zagreb, Rovinj, Pula, & Split - 8 Days
Best of Croatia: Zagreb, Rovinj, Pula, & Split - 8 Days

Enjoy eight days of cultural exploration around Croatia. You'll begin in the colorful capital of Zagreb, tour the romantic landscape of Istria, visit Plitvice Lakes National Park, and venture along the Dalmatian coast from Zadar to Split. Along the way, explore ancient Roman ruins in Pula and Split, sip Istrian wine and eat truffle-infused dishes in Motovun, catch an unforgettable sunset in Zadar, and admire Šibenik's architectural masterpiece, the grand Cathedral of St. James.

St. Euphemia Church dominates Rovinj's skyline
Map of Best of Croatia: Zagreb, Rovinj, Plitvice & Split - 10 Days
Best of Croatia: Zagreb, Rovinj, Plitvice & Split - 10 Days

Explore Croatia's top cities and cultural sights on this 10-day Best of Croatia tour. Start in Zagreb, the country's capital, before moving on to explore the Roman ruins, Venetian-style architecture, and medieval hilltop towns of the Istrian Peninsula. After spending a night in stunning Plitvice Lakes National Park, you'll work your way down the Adriatic coast to visit Zadar, Šibenik, and Split, as well as enjoy a fun day of sailing to the quaint island of Šolta.

The Soča River in Kobarid, Slovenia
Map of Best of Croatia & Slovenia: Ljubljana, Rovinj, Hvar, & Dalmatia - 14 Days
Best of Croatia & Slovenia: Ljubljana, Rovinj, Hvar, & Dalmatia - 14 Days

Head off on an unforgettable adventure as you cover the best of Croatia and Slovenia in two weeks, starting in Zagreb. You'll cross borders to overnight in the capital of Ljubljana before venturing through the breathtaking scenery of Triglav National Park, the Soča Valley, and the Karst region. Your trip culminates along Croatia's Adriatic coast, from the Istrian Peninsula in the north through to the fortressed city of Dubrovnik in the south as well as Plitvice Lakes, Split, and Hvar in between.

The medieval hilltop town of Motovun
Map of Best of Croatia: Zagreb, Rovinj, Plitvice, Split & Dubrovnik - 14 Days
Best of Croatia: Zagreb, Rovinj, Plitvice, Split & Dubrovnik - 14 Days

Set out to explore the hidden gems of Croatia on this extensive two-week itinerary from the romantic vine-covered hills and Venetian-style coastline of Istria to the ancient coastal cities of Dalmatia. From Zagreb, you'll immerse yourself in the Istrian Peninsula exploring medieval hilltop towns, seeking out prized white truffles, and dining on fresh-caught seafood in top-rated restaurants before experiencing the delights of the Dalmatian coast. You'll take in an unforgettable sunset in Zadar, discover cascading waterfalls and emerald-green lakes in Plitvice Lakes, sail in and around the nearly-barren islands of the Kornati, and enjoy views over the Adriatic and historic saltpans from a parapet walkway in Ston.

Pula's Roman Arena, a mini Colosseum
Best of Croatia: Zagreb, Rovinj, Plitvice, & Split - 9 Days

Experience Croatia's charming capital and coastal cities, medieval hilltop towns, and peaceful islands with this complete 9-day itinerary. You'll discover the best attractions starting from Zagreb as you venture throughout the Istrian Peninsula, through stunning Plitvice Lakes National Park, and down the Dalmatian coast to end in historic Split. Explore Pula's famed Roman Arena, wander amid the Roman and Byzantine ruins of Brijuni National Park, and listen to the music of Zadar's sea organ.

The beautiful coastal city of Rovinj
Magical Istria: Rovinj, Grožnjan, Motovun, & Pula - 5 Days

Get a glimpse of Istria on this quick 5-day tour. Starting from Croatia's capital, Zagreb, you'll make the scenic drive to Rovinj, one of Croatia's most charming coastal cities. Besides discovering Venetian-influenced architecture, you'll take a day to explore the heart of the peninsula with a visit to the nearby medieval hilltop towns of Grožnjan, Oprtalj, and Motovun, capping off your stay with a day in Pula to check out its notable Roman remains.

The town of Jelsa on Hvar Island
Map of Best of Croatia: Zagreb, Rovinj, Šibenik, Hvar, & Dubrovnik - 11 Days
Best of Croatia: Zagreb, Rovinj, Šibenik, Hvar, & Dubrovnik - 11 Days

From the romantic countryside of Istria to the charming coastal cities along the Dalmatian coast, this complete 11-day journey covering the best of Croatia has it all. The trip begins in the bustling capital of Zagreb and then takes you to Pula, Rovinj, Poreč, and Motovun with Roman ruins, historic churches, and medieval hilltop towns waiting to be explored. You'll catch an unforgettable sunset in Zadar, wind your way through labyrinthine streets in Šibenik and Trogir, ride a bike across Hvar Island, and walk the ancient fortress walls of Dubrovnik, the "Adriatic Pearl."

View of Korčula from atop Mt. Ilija on the nearby Pelješac peninsula
Map of Best of Croatia: Zagreb, Rovinj, Šibenik, Hvar, & Dubrovnik - 12 Days
Best of Croatia: Zagreb, Rovinj, Šibenik, Hvar, & Dubrovnik - 12 Days

This thorough 12-day self-guided tour covers Croatia's best, from cultural stops in Venetian-infused cities to the exploration of ancient Roman ruins. Explore medieval hilltop towns, lively markets, historic fortressed cities, and glittering salt pans. You'll sip local wine native to Korčula, ride through vineyards and olive groves across Hvar Island, and relax on Split's inviting Bačvice beach.

The Soča River in Kobarid, Slovenia
Best of Croatia & Slovenia: Zagreb, Ljubljana, Istria, & Dalmatia - 16 Days

A great route to discover Slovenia and Croatia over 16 unforgettable days. Starting in Croatia's dynamic capital, you'll first head into Slovenia to discover charming Ljubljana, the popular Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj, as well as the captivating Soča Valley and Kobarid. Then, continue into the romantic Istrian peninsula discovering the walled hilltop towns and thickly wooded landscape before working your way to stunning Plitvice Lakes and then on to the Dalmatian coast ending your stay in medieval Dubrovnik.

Sunset over medieval Lubenice on Cres Island
Best of Croatia: Zagreb, Istria, Dalmatia, & Dubrovnik - 21 Days

Experience the highlights of Croatia as well as the less-frequented hidden gems on this comprehensive 21-day tour. Start in the dynamic capital of Zagreb and cover the rolling hills and castles of the Zagorje, the hill towns and Venetian-era villages of Istria, and the unspoiled nature of Cres Island in the Kvarner Gulf before returning to the mainland. You'll explore the stunning Dalmatian coast with its ancient coastal cities of Zadar, Šibenik, Trogir, Split, and Dubrovnik along with discovering Adriatic islands, Korčula and Mljet, the rugged beauty of the Pelješac Peninsula, and the exquisite Bay of Kotor on a day trip to Montenegro.

The town of Fazana on the coast of Istria
Map of Magical Istria: Zagreb, Rovinj, Brijuni, & Pula - 6 Days
Magical Istria: Zagreb, Rovinj, Brijuni, & Pula - 6 Days

Spend six days touring Croatia's magical Istrian Peninsula, starting and ending in the dynamic capital of Zagreb. Soak in the stunning beauty of the romantic countryside as you work your way to the Venetian-influenced city of Rovinj on Istria's coast, your base for the next three nights. You'll discover nearby medieval hilltop towns of Grožnjan, Oprtalj, and Motovun, as well as visit the small fishing town of Fažana, explore Brijuni National Park, and tour Pula's famous Roman ruins.

Ban Jelačić  Square in Croatia's capital, Zagreb
Best of Croatia: Zagreb, Rovinj, Plitvice, Hvar, & Dubrovnik - 16 Days

Explore the best of Croatia on this comprehensive 16-day trip from the dynamic capital of Zagreb to the "Pearl of the Adriatic," Dubrovnik. Immerse yourself in culture, history, and stunning landscapes as you tour the romantic countryside of the Istrian peninsula, overnight in Plitvice Lakes National Park, and drive along the Dalmatian coast. You'll roam the tightly-woven network of cobblestoned streets in historic Rovinj, walk Split's 1,700-year-old stone-paved streets, leftover from Roman times, and feast on fresh-caught oysters and mussels in Ston after sampling wine native to the Pelješac peninsula.

The charming hilltop town of Buzet in the Istrian peninsula
Best of Croatia: Zagreb, Istria, & Dalmatia - 13 Days

Go from medieval hilltop towns in vineyard-covered Istria to charming coastal cities of the Dalmatian coast over the course of this 13-day trip. You'll begin in the art-forward capital of Zagreb before venturing to the romantic landscape of the Istrian peninsula where you'll hunt for truffles, tour fortressed villages, and relax on pebbled beaches. Carry on down the coast after spending the night in breathtaking Plitvice Lakes to watch a sunset in Zadar, visit your own personal island off of Korčula, and explore the rugged beauty of the Pelješac peninsula.

The Church of St. Euphemia marks the beautiful Old Town of Rovinj
Map of Magical Istria: Zagreb, Rovinj, Cape Kamenjak, & Plitvice - 9 Days
Magical Istria: Zagreb, Rovinj, Cape Kamenjak, & Plitvice - 9 Days

Enjoy nine days immersing yourself in Croatia's Istrian Peninsula, starting and ending in the vibrant capital of Zagreb. You'll spend four nights in the coastal Venetian-style town of Rovinj, a great base to explore the romantic landscape of nearby vineyards and olive groves, medieval hilltop towns, and dramatic coastline. Stroll Opatija's Lungomare for pretty views of the Kvarner Gulf, drink Istrian wine and eat truffle-infused dishes in Motovun, as well as discover the lush beauty of famous Plitvice Lakes.

Split's waterfront view at dusk
Map of Best of Croatia: Zagreb, Rovinj, Plitvice, & Split - 7 Days
Best of Croatia: Zagreb, Rovinj, Plitvice, & Split - 7 Days

This 7-day getaway is a short and sweet solution for travelers looking to discover the best of Croatia from cultural attractions to breathtaking scenery. Start in the country's lively capital for museums, art galleries, and historical buildings, then head to the Istrian Peninsula to explore Pula's Roman ruins, Rovnij's network of medieval streets, and the stunning hilltop towns of Grožnjan and Motovun. End your trip discovering the ancient coastal cities of Dalmatia from the unforgettable sunsets of Zadar and the impressive fortresses of Šibenik to Split's famous Diocletian's Palace.

The beautiful coastal city of Rovinj
Map of Magical Istria: Zagreb, Rovinj, Cape Kamenjak, & Plitvice Lakes - 8 Days
Magical Istria: Zagreb, Rovinj, Cape Kamenjak, & Plitvice Lakes - 8 Days

Explore Croatia's "Tierra Magica," a compelling region chock-full of vineyards, olive groves, stunning Venetian-style coastline, and medieval hilltop towns. You'll spend eight days discovering the romantic Istrian Peninsula as well as spend time in the vibrant capital of Zagreb and enjoy a full morning exploring the beautiful Plitvice Lakes National Park. Try a meal with pilchards in Fažana, visit the once-infamous White Villa on Brijuni Island, and tour the dramatic coastline of Cape Kamenjak.

Trakošćan Castle in the Zagorje region on a sunny fall day
Best of Croatia: Zagreb, Rovinj, Plitvice, & Split - 11 Days

Spend 11 days exploring the best of Croatia's attractions from the charming capital of Zagreb and the castle-laden hills of Zagorje down to the ancient coastal city of Split and the nearby stuck-in-time Šolta Island. You'll venture across the romantic countryside of Istria to discover Roman ruins, Venetian-style architecture, and medieval hilltop towns before moving on to stroll the wooden boardwalks of the famous Plitvice Lakes National Park. The trip culminates with a tour along the Dalmatian coast to end in Split, stopping first to visit underrated Šibenik and trendy Zadar.

Other popular travel destinations in Croatia
Dalmatian Coast · Dubrovnik · Split · Hvar · Korčula · Zagreb · Plitvice Lakes · Zadar · Ston · Istria · Rovinj · Hvar Island · Vis Island · Opatija · Trogir · Mljet Island · Brač Island · Skradin · Stari Grad · Šipan · Vela Luka · Šibenik · Osijek · Bale · Miljet Island