FD Special Tour to Istria
Programme Overview
Duration: 1 day
An 8-hour shore excursion to the culturally rich Istria.
Highlights: Rovinj, Poreč, Motovun
Istria is a peninsula that sits at a crossroads of European history, and has been influenced by many civilisations over the centuries. The name of the peninsula originates from Greek legends; in ancient times, the Greeks believed the Danube (or ‘Istros’ as they called it) had several river mouths and sources. It was along one of these branches that the Argonauts sailed into the Adriatic sea in their quest for the Golden Fleece, and they named this peninsula after the river.
Istria is one of the most beautiful parts of Croatia, and you will have the opportunity to explore many of the charming towns of the region. You will also have a chance to explore the world of the truffle; top chefs agree that the truffle should be placed at the top of list of the gastronomic delicacies, and the Istrian truffle is regarded as one of the best. Hear about truffle hunting from an expert, and enjoy a tasting of this highly perfumed fungus.
Depart Rovinj and drive first to Poreč, an ancient town famous for its sacred buildings dating from the Roman and early Christian era. You will visit the Euphrasius basilica, one of the finest of the early Byzantine churches. Also visit Marafor, the oldest part of the town, where you will see the remains of two Roman temples: the Temple of Mars andNeptune's Temple. Other notable medieval buildings include the House of Two Saints which boasts Romanesque features, and the Istrian Parliament Building which was originally a Franciscan church. The Venetian influence is represented in the Leoni and Zuccato Palaces, built in gotico fiorito style.
Continue to Motovun, an excellent example of a medieval acropolis-type town, perched on a top of a hill. A short distance from here is a small town called Livade, where you will finally have the opportunity to hunt for truffles. Your experience includes a 3-course lunch, during which you will sample local wines and olive oil, and of course the truffles found during your hunt. Return to Rovinj from here.