Rovinj is one of the most beautiful cities of Istria. Located on the west coast of the peninsula, many tourist activities are available like visiting the historic places of the Illyrian, Roman and Venetian time. That is why it is called the “Little Venice of Croatia”.
Rovinj in Istria
You should not miss the following places and activities in Rovinj:
Rovinj’s history
Rovinj was built between the 3rd and 5th century. The city has survived many attacks from the Visigoths, the Huns and the Byzantines before falling under Venetian leadership from 1283 until the 18th century. After the fall of Venice in 1797 and during the Austrian and French administrations (1797-1805 and 1805-1813), the citizens were at the head of the city. In 1947 Rovinj was officially a city of Yugoslavia.
Famous Monuments
The monuments are mostly located in the old part of the city of Rovinj. The houses are narrow and high and we can see that the facades and balconies have preserved traces of Baroque, Neoclassical and Renaissance time. We can notice that Walls from the middle Ages and Renaissance are still present around the city.
Beaches
In Rovinj there are mainly gravel beaches and some boulders. This kind of beaches are mainly located in bays and truly appreciated by families and children. We have to mention the beaches of Crveni Otok (Red Island) which are located only 15 minutes by boat from Rovinj.
Cathedral of St. Euphemia
The Cathedral of St. Euphemia is the most important and famous monument of Rovinj. According to a local legend, the tomb of Saint Euphemia has reached the beaches of the city from the sea. The marble tomb is exhibited in the cathedral.
Activities in Rovinj
There is something for everyone: long romantic walks, concerts, exhibitions, bars and clubs of Monvi’s park, downtown cafes and restaurants… For sure, you will not be bored during your stay in Rovinj.
Gastronomy
We can find many local specialties in Rovinj and it is very difficult to resist to the various pasta dishes and the local specialty called “maneštra” (a mix between a soup and a stew). Like all coastal cities in Croatia, seafood is in abundance.