Rovinj, the pearl of the Istrian peninsula, is a city that attracts visitors from all over the world with its charm, picturesque streets, and rich history. Its unique atmosphere, a blend of Mediterranean spirit and Venetian heritage, makes it an unmissable destination for anyone seeking an authentic experience. The old town, located on a peninsula, is a labyrinth of narrow stone streets, colorful facades, and hidden squares that exude times past. But Rovinj is not just a beautiful backdrop; it is a living city with a rich cultural scene, top-notch gastronomy, and people who preserve its tradition.

Discover the Hidden Corners of Rovinj with Expert Guidance

For all those who wish to delve deeper into the heart of this Adriatic gem, there is an extraordinary opportunity to get to know its cultural and historical sights in detail. Free guided tours of the city are organized, accompanied by experienced local guides who will reveal the secrets of Rovinj's streets, tell legends, and bring the way of life of its inhabitants through the centuries closer to you. This is an ideal opportunity to experience Rovinj in a different way, through the stories of those who know it best.

The gathering of interested visitors and the start of this two-hour adventure are planned in front of the information center of the local tourist organization, located at Trg na mostu 2. From here begins the walk that will take you through the most significant parts of the old town core, revealing beauty and history at every step.

A Walk Through History and Culture

The itinerary is carefully designed to cover key points that testify to the rich past and cultural identity of Rovinj. The journey begins with a walk down Garibaldi Street, one of the arteries of the old town, which will introduce you to the authentic atmosphere. A particularly interesting stop is a visit to a traditional family shoemaker's workshop on Zdenac Street, where the old craft is still nurtured, providing insight into the everyday life of the past.

Continuing the ascent towards the top of the peninsula, you pass through Bregovita Street, whose name faithfully describes its character. Along the way, viewpoints offer unforgettable panoramic views of the city rooftops, nearby islands, and the endless blue of the Adriatic Sea. Every view from these places tells its own story, revealing the beauty of the Rovinj archipelago.

The Highlight of the Tour: Church of St. Euphemia

An unmissable point of every visit to Rovinj is the monumental church of St. Euphemia, the patron saint of the city, which dominates the skyline from the very top of the peninsula. This Baroque building, modeled after St. Mark's Basilica in Venice, houses the sarcophagus with the body of the saint and represents the most important cultural monument in the city. The tour also includes a visit to the interior of the church, where visitors can learn about its history, the legend of the saint, and admire the impressive architecture and works of art. The tall bell tower, a replica of the Venetian one, offers the possibility of climbing for the bravest, rewarding them with a spectacular 360-degree view.

Art and Tradition at Every Step

Descending from the church, the walk leads through Grisia Street, Rovinj's most famous art street. Every summer, a one-day open-air exhibition is held here, when artists display their works along the entire street, turning it into a vibrant gallery. Even outside of this event, Grisia exudes creative energy, with numerous studios and galleries.

The path continues through Porečka Street and Garzotto Street, revealing charming details of old architecture, all the way to Vela trg, the former center of city life. You also pass through the Vrata pod zidom (Gate Under the Wall), one of the preserved entrances to the formerly fortified city, testifying to its defensive past.

Arriving at the city harbor offers a view of the picturesque waterfront with fishing boats and traditional batanas, flat-bottomed wooden boats that are a symbol of Rovinj. It is right here that the Batana Ecomuseum is located, dedicated to the preservation of this unique vessel and fishing tradition. A visit to the museum is often included in similar tours, providing deeper insight into the unbreakable bond between Rovinj and the sea.

The tour ends at the main city square, Trg maršala Tita, where the city clock and numerous historical buildings are located, rounding off the story of Rovinj's urban development.

Musical and Gastronomic Experiences

A special charm to this guided tour is given by the inclusion of authentic cultural elements. During the walk through the old town street Casale, participants will be surprised by the sounds of traditional Rovinj music. Musicians will perform live old songs known as bitinade and arie da nuoto. Bitinade are a specific form of polyphonic singing without instrumental accompaniment, often humorous in character, while arie da nuoto are melodic songs once sung by fishermen. This musical intermezzo provides a unique experience of local folklore.

To make the experience complete, a short break with a tasting is planned in a space arranged like a traditional Istrian tavern, known as a spàcio. At Spàcio Matika, participants will have the opportunity to taste simple but delicious fish dishes, such as salted sardines or anchovies in olive oil, accompanied by a glass of local wine. This is an opportunity to get acquainted with the basics of local gastronomy, which is based on fresh seafood and Mediterranean spices.

Spiritual Heritage: Church of St. Francis of Assisi

In addition to the main parish church, the tour often includes a visit to the Franciscan monastery and the Church of St. Francis of Assisi. This Baroque complex, located slightly outside the very center of the old town, houses a valuable monastery collection. It contains a large number of liturgical objects, old books, valuable paintings and sculptures that testify to the rich religious and cultural history of the monastery and the city. A visit to this peaceful oasis offers a different perspective on the spiritual dimension of Rovinj.

Practical Information and Accommodation

Guided tours are offered in several languages: Croatian, Italian, English, and German, to meet the needs of international visitors. When registering, which is mandatory and recommended at least one hour before the start of the tour, it is necessary to specify the desired language of the tour. Registrations are usually accepted via email to the local tourist organization.

Rovinj offers a wide range of accommodation options for all tastes and budgets. From luxury five-star hotels located along the coast, with beautiful views of the sea and the old town, to designer boutique hotels within the historic core that offer a unique ambiance. For those who prefer more independence, a large number of private apartments and holiday homes are available, from modern flats to charming stone houses in the old town. Also, in the vicinity of the city, there are quality campsites located in pine forests by the beaches. Regardless of the choice, quality accommodation is easy to find, making a stay in Rovinj even more pleasant.

Take the opportunity for a free expert guided tour and let Rovinj enchant you with its beauty, history, and unique Mediterranean spirit. Discover why this city holds the title of one of the most romantic places in the Mediterranean.