Istria and Kvarner
Istria is both a region of Croatia and Croatia’s largest peninsula. The other one is called PeljeÅ¡ac, situated in southern Dalmatia. Istria is located between two gulfs — the gulf of Trieste and the Kvarner one. Most of Istria belongs to Croatia; only a small part with cities Izola, Piran, Koper and Portorož belongs to Slovenia. Since we are describing Croatia’s regions here, we will only talk about the Croatian part of Istria. The biggest city is Pula and some other ones are Poreč, Pazin, Umag, Rovinj, Labin, Motovun, known as the host of the Film Festival, and others. Istria is bordered by the mountain range Čićarija on the north and the ridge of Učka on the east.
Istria is mostly a lowland area with one big mountain called Učka and a few remarkable rivers — Mirna, RaÅ¡a, Pazinčica. Istria is a popular tourist destination, especially the cities on the west coast which is well indented while the east coast is sharp and stubbled.
Even though they are all crowded with tourists, Poreč and Umag somehow seem to be at the top positions. Umag is known as the host of the Tennis AP tour that takes place each year. If you are not a tennis fan you can enjoy beautiful beaches, bike riding, exploring… On the other side, Poreč has received many praises and awards as a city with a historical and cultural soul. As for the sport events, Poreč is also known for the church museum — Euphrasius' bishopric.
No matter what city you visit, you will be surprised by their hospitality, sunny beaches and activities. Mediterranean climate makes this Croatian peninsula a real jewel. As we mentioned before, each part of Croatia has developed its own dialect. But Istria's case is special. The majority of the Istrians speaks čakavian or kajkavian dialect. But for Istrians, actually for the Italian majorities that have settled in the cities and villages situated inland, Italian is the mother tongue. So we can state that the Croatian part of Istria is a region with two official languages.
Every single Istrian city has its own story — its own historical remains, its own notabilities: statues, churches, movies, museums, theaters. No matter where you wind up at, you can find something suitable for yourself. You can experience Istrian Safari, get lost in the taste of truffles, simply rest at the beach, enjoy Istrian night life — walks by the sea, feeling the summer breeze and the scent of the Adriatic Sea.
Kvarner seems to be the top tourist destination due to its islands, climate and combination of cultural and historical elements. The largest city is Rijeka which represents Croatia's biggest port. Along with Rijeka and its notabilities, islands play the main role when it comes to attracting attention. The most notable island destinations are Krk, Cres, Lošinj, Rab. Crikvenica, Novi Vinodolski and Opatija seem to be attractive to foreigners but somehow Opatija takes them all. Beautiful sunsets, beaches, events and promenades make this place lovable.