A Cultural Medley on the Adriatic Sea

Rovinj, Istria is a patchwork of golden and rust buildings tightly packed into a bright dot on the Adriatic Sea. The region of Istria is a popular summer travel spot, known for a temperate climate, pine forests, Roman ruins, and an interesting blend of Croatian and Italian language and culture.

The city of Rovinj as seen from the sea

One of the most charming locations in Istria, Rovinj features an old quarter made up of narrow cobbled streets leading upward to the pinnacle of the peninsula, the church of St. Euphemia. The streets are speckled with art galleries, lively performers, and outdoor cafes at which to stop and soak up some sun and a glass of local wine. We visited during July, when temperatures were warm yet comfortable, and locals were out mingling by the water.

A local dance team performs in Old Town

The town made for the perfect stop on our journey between Dubrovnik and Italy, and a great jumping off point to explore the archipelago of fourteen islands just off the shore. When it was time to go, we travelled onwards to Venice via a pleasant two hour boat ride through calm waters.

The rooftops of Rovinj