Istria, Croatia Guide

Welcome to Istria, a peninsula tucked away in the north-western corner of Croatia - a land of beauty and adventure! This Mediterranean haven, with its rolling hills and sparkling turquoise waters, is the perfect destination for any traveler looking to explore the best of Croatian culture.

Istria is a land of stunningly diverse and captivating landscapes. From the rolling hills and lush olive groves in the west, to the rolling vineyards and picturesque fishing villages in the south, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The coastline is dotted with sandy coves and crystal-clear bays, perfect for swimming, snorkeling and exploring the underwater world. The stunning hilltop towns offer breathtaking views and centuries of history, while ancient Roman ruins offer a glimpse into the past.

No visit to Istria is complete without sampling the local delicacies. From award-winning olive oils and truffles, to fresh seafood and Istrian wines, the region’s culinary offerings are sure to delight even the most discerning palate.

And of course, Istria is the perfect place to relax and unwind. The peaceful atmosphere and laid-back lifestyle make it the ideal destination for a peaceful holiday. Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, a family holiday or an adventure-filled getaway, Istria has something for everyone.

Come and experience the magic of Istria for yourself - you won’t regret it!

Croatia, officially known as the Republic of Croatia, is a small country located in southeastern Europe. It borders Slovenia, Hungary, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro, and has a long coastline along the Adriatic Sea.

The history of Croatia dates back to the 7th century when it was part of the Kingdom of the Croats. The Croats were a Slavic tribe that settled in the area and adopted Christianity in the 9th century. In the 10th century, they formed the Kingdom of Croatia, which was ruled by various dynasties until the 12th century when it became part of the Hungarian Kingdom.

During the Middle Ages, Croatia was a key player in the struggle for power between the Hungarian Kingdom and the Republic of Venice. Croatia was also affected by the Ottoman Empire’s expansion in the Balkans, and in the 16th century, a large part of the country fell under Ottoman rule.

In the 19th century, Croatia became part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, which brought significant economic and cultural developments to the country. However, the desire for independence and self-governance grew among the Croatian people, and in 1918, Croatia declared its independence as part of the State of Slovenes, Croats, and Serbs. This was short-lived as the country soon became part of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes, which later became known as Yugoslavia.

During World War II, Croatia was occupied by the Axis powers, and a puppet state called the Independent State of Croatia was established. This period was marked by the brutal rule of the Ustaše regime, which committed numerous war crimes against Jews, Serbs, and Romani people. After the war, Croatia became part of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia under the communist rule of Josip Broz Tito.

In the early 1990s, Croatia declared its independence from Yugoslavia, leading to a bloody war with Serbia and the break-up of Yugoslavia. The war lasted for four years and resulted in the loss of thousands of lives and the displacement of hundreds of thousands. In 1995, a peace agreement was signed, and Croatia became a sovereign state.

Since gaining independence, Croatia has made significant strides in rebuilding its economy and infrastructure. It joined the European Union in 2013 and has become a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, historic cities, and stunning natural landscapes.

Today, Croatia is a democratic country with a rich cultural heritage and a growing economy. Its history is marked by struggles for independence and self-determination, but the resilience and determination of its people have shaped Croatia into the vibrant and diverse country it is today.