Rovinj, Croatia
Rovinj is a picturesque coastal town located on the Istrian Peninsula in Croatia, known for its charming old town and stunning Adriatic views. The town’s narrow cobblestone streets are lined with colorful houses and lead up to the hilltop Church of St. Euphemia, offering panoramic vistas. Rovinj's history is reflected in its blend of Venetian, Austrian, and Croatian influences, making it a cultural gem. The surrounding area is ideal for outdoor activities such as biking, swimming, and exploring nearby islands. Its vibrant local markets, seafood restaurants, and art galleries contribute to its reputation as one of Croatia's most beautiful and popular tourist destinations.
Parking in Rovinj
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1. Velika Valdibora Parking
GPS: 45.085187, 13.636013
Description: The largest municipal parking lot, located close to Rovinj's historic center. Perfect for those planning to explore the old town. Payment is made at the exit at the cashier.
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2. Mala Valdibora Parking
GPS: 45.085444, 13.637741
Description: A smaller section of the Valdibora parking lot, also near the center. Convenient location for tourists. Payment is made at the exit at the cashier.
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3. Pećine Parking
GPS: 45.084968, 13.639087
Description: A small parking lot close to the center. Plenty of free spaces before the summer season starts. Prices are similar to other parking lots in the city center.
Note: During the season, parking spaces are scarce, so it's worth arriving early.
Exploring Rovinj
Let’s begin our journey through the charming streets of Rovinj! Our first stop is the lively Main Square (A; GPS: 45.08192491, 13.634705716), known as Trg Marsala Tita. This bustling square is surrounded by colorful Venetian-style buildings and cozy cafes. Pay attention to the impressive Balbi Arch (B; GPS: 45.082154645, 13.634249589), a gate leading to the old town, reminiscent of Rovinj’s Venetian heritage.
Nearby is the picturesque harbor, where the sight of gently swaying fishing boats reminds us of Rovinj’s maritime traditions. From here, you can see the lush St. Catherine’s Island, a perfect escape for those seeking tranquility.
Walking along the cobblestone streets, notice the charming houses with pastel facades and wooden shutters. These narrow alleys will eventually lead us to the majestic St. Euphemia Church (C; GPS: 45.083195163, 13.631021610), perched on a hill. Let’s climb to the top and step inside this beautiful church, where we can admire its Baroque interior and learn about the history of St. Euphemia, the patron saint of Rovinj. For the brave, there’s the opportunity to climb the bell tower. The views from up there are breathtaking – the old town, the sparkling Adriatic, and scattered islands stretch out before us like a picturesque painting.
Let’s continue down Grisia Street (D; GPS: 45.082618602, 13.632718532), famous for its art galleries and small shops. Notice how every corner has its own unique charm, from handmade jewelry to local paintings. This street comes alive, especially during the annual Grisia Art Fair. Be careful as you descend – the stones can be quite slippery, even when it’s not raining.
Returning to Trg Marsala Tita, we can now find a nice restaurant, of which there is no shortage here. This place is simply a paradise for food lovers. The restaurants offer a variety of options – from traditional Istrian dishes to fresh seafood. Let’s take a moment to savor the enticing aromas wafting from the kitchens – truffles, olive oil, and grilled fish are just some of the delicacies waiting to be tasted. Many restaurants have outdoor seating, allowing us to enjoy our meal while soaking in the lively atmosphere of the square. Notice how each spot has its unique charm – some even feature live music in the evenings, adding to the magical ambiance of Rovinj.
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