A Three-Day Itinerary in Istria in Autumn
5 minA three-day itinerary in Istria is perfect for enjoying truffle hunting, wine and olive tasting, and exploring the beautiful countryside during the autumn months. Here’s our suggestion that balances activities and relaxation.
About the Istrian Peninsula in Autumn
As autumn descends on the Istrian peninsula, the rolling hills are painted with vibrant shades of gold and crimson, while the vineyards and olive groves prepare for harvest. The timing is perfect for a more relaxed vacation in Istria, with fewer crowds. The crisp air carries the scent of truffles and chestnuts, inviting visitors to explore its charming medieval towns and coastal paths.
Things to Do in 3 Days in Istria
The peaceful ambience of autumn makes Istria a perfect escape for those seeking natural beauty, cultural sightseeing, outdoor activities and culinary delights. In a three-day itinerary, you will be able to combine the best of it!
Day One: Exploring Poreč and Its Scenic Surroundings by Bike
Poreč is a great central location for exploring the Istrian peninsula. You can start with sightseeing at the historical centre of Poreč. Visit the Euphrasian Basilic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning mosaics and wander through the charming old town of Poreč with its Roman architecture.
Have lunch at one of the traditional konobas (taverns) in the old town. Taste Istrian specialities like fuži (homemade pasta) with truffle sauce or some dishes inspired by international cuisine.
Family cycling in the scenic surroundings around Poreč
This coastal gem and its scenic surroundings are perfect for cyclists. For example, you can choose the route that goes from Baredine Cave to Nova Vas. This itinerary provides a mix of quiet countryside roads and local villages while being manageable within two hours. If you’d like more challenging routes or scenic detours, you can choose more cycling opportunities.
You can finish the day in a more relaxed way by visiting Radovan Winery in Radovani for a tasting stop: this family estate sits on the hills above Poreč and pours Istrian classics, especially Malvasia and Teran, in a welcoming cellar with nice and cosy tasting rooms indoors and a charming terrace. Book ahead for the tasting room and enjoy a relaxed slice of local wine culture without going far from the coast.
Garden terrace at Radovan Winery near Poreč.
Day Two: Truffle Hunting and Wine Tasting
After breakfast, head to Karlić Tartufi near the village of Paladini, around a 45-minute drive from Poreč. Participate in a truffle hunting experience with trained dogs in the beautiful forest. Autumn is the season for white truffles, the most prized variety, which you have certainly heard of. After the hunt, enjoy a tasting session at Karlić, where you can try fresh truffle products and local delicacies.
A hunter holding a white truffle at Karlić Tartufi
If you are more into wines and would like to explore more wineries, why not visit Kozlovic Winery in the Buje area? The winery is known for its elegant setting and stunning views over the vineyards and is one of the most renowned in the Istrian region. Take a guided tour of the Kozlovic vineyards and cellars, followed by a wine tasting session featuring their signature Malvasia, Teran, and Muscat.
In the afternoon, make Valamar Diamant Hotel the centrepiece of your afternoon: its luxurious Balance Mediterranean Spa offers a full reset, with multiple saunas, an indoor pool, guided fitness programs, and personalised treatments: from therapeutic massages to beauty rituals delivered with organic cosmetics. Choose from nourishing facials, pedicures, and manicures to ease away the day’s outdoor adventures, then, if you’re in the mood, you can have a gentle stroll along the Poreč waterfront.
Poreč old town with waterfront
Day Three: Central Istria and More Tasting
After breakfast, you can visit the Monte Formento olive grove, which has more than 118 years of tradition. It is located in the little village of Kaštelir near Poreč. You will enjoy the familiar and pleasant ambience of this little estate and its owners, and you will taste the high-quality and prized olive varieties, such as Pendolino, Leccino, Buža, Bianchera, Frantoio, and Moraiolo. You will also discover why this precious gold is good for your health.
Tasting at Monte Formento restaurant
After the tasting, you can visit the picturesque town of Motovun, about a 30-minute drive from Kaštelir. This hilltop town is surrounded by vineyards and offers stunning views over the Istrian countryside, especially in the autumn colours. Explore the town’s medieval streets and enjoy a coffee or snack while taking in the scenery.
View of Motovun, hilltop town
If time permits, visit Tomaz Winery, which is known for its Malvasia and bold Teran, for another wine tasting experience at this family-run estate where tradition and modernity meet in every detail. Enjoy a tour and tasting session, learning about their winemaking process and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of their family-run estate.
Tomaz Winery in Motovun
After the wine tasting, you can stop at Grožnjan. This quaint artist’s village is filled with galleries, artisan shops, and beautiful stone houses. In autumn, the peaceful ambience of Grožnjan is especially charming.
Grožnjan Town Loggia
If you like to explore more of central Istria, after visiting Motovun, make time for a brandy tasting at Krulčić distillery near Pazin, where a small family turns local grapes, honey, and herbs into a brandy (rakija). In the cosy tasting room, you’ll sample Istrian classics: biska (mistletoe), teranino but also brandies made of olive, black thorn, and walnut, while learning about this family tradition. It’s an intimate, unhurried stop that will make your sightseeing day even more pleasant and let’s say, immersed in the local culture and customs.
Additional Tips for Your Itinerary
- Travel Time: Distances in Istria are relatively short, and in autumn months, there are no crowds, so travel times between destinations should be around 30-60 minutes, making day trips easy from Poreč.
- Weather: Autumn weather in Istria can vary, so pack a mix of layers to stay comfortable during cooler mornings and warmer afternoons.
- Reservation: Make reservations for the truffle hunting experience and tastings in advance, as these can be popular, especially during truffle season.
