Things to see in Poreč

Date 28. July 2022.
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Poreč is probably one of the biggest and oldest cities on the coast of Istria. This city was founded by the Romans more than 2 000 years ago. During its rich history, Poreč was under the rule of the Romans, Venice, and Austria, and all these regimes left their trace in this beautiful Istrian city. The remnants attesting to their rule in Poreč exist to this day, which makes this city a very fascinating tourist destination because, in addition to its beautiful beaches and gastronomic delights, it offers numerous historical sites as well.

Old City
The oldest part of Poreč, its Old City (Cro. Stari grad), kept the layout of the castrum from ancient Rome, and the Marafor square, where the remains of the Temple of Neptune, as well as the Romanesque house, and two towers (the Pentagonal and the Round Tower) still stand, are just some of the attractions that “survived”, and you can still visit them today! In the ancient times, even more temples dedicated to other various Roman gods stood in this part of the city, but, unfortunately, they have not survived to this day. Besides Roman monuments, you can also find Gothic and Neo-Gothic, as well as many other monuments (such as the Zuccato or Manzini palaces) from different historical periods.

The Island of Saint Nicholas
From this small island, which is just a five-minute boat ride away from the city, the whole Old City and all its wonders. Besides that, you can enjoy beautiful beaches and pristine nature on this island.

Euphrasian Basilica
One of the oldest and the most famous structures of this kind in Croatia, Euphrasian Basilica, was built in the 6th century during the period of the bishop Euphrasius. It is known for its Byzantine mosaics, which make it one of the most beautiful monuments of early Byzantine art in this part of Europe, but as well as the world in general. The basilica has been under the protection of UNESCO as a monument of world cultural and natural heritage since 1997. and this makes it the most important cultural monument in the city and elsewhere.

Aquacolors Poreč Aquapark
Besides its intriguing history, Poreč is also bursting with fun and exciting activities. One of these is the largest aquapark in Croatia, Aquapark Aquacolors Poreč, which we have already extensively covered in one of our earlier blogs. It is located only two kilometres (1.2 miles) from Poreč, and it offers 17 different attractions for kids and adults as well, so there is no doubt that the whole family can have fun. If you’re a fan of adrenaline filled activities and prefer that your holidays are active, make sure to visit this exciting aquapark.

City History Museum
In addition to being very important for the city, this museum is also the oldest museum in the entire Istria. It was founded in 1884, and its aim is to collect, preserve, and to research all of Poreč’s civilizational and cultural assets.

Beaches
We can’t not mention the beaches in Poreč. Poreč’s coast is 37 kilometres (23 miles), and along it you can find 21 beaches that boast the Blue flag. And it here’s the fun fact: 20% of all beaches in Croatia that were awarded the Blue flag are located in Poreč! The sea is of exceptional quality, and among the many beaches you can find something for all ages and appetites.