Explore the ancient city of Rovinj and the surrounding area of the Istrian Peninsula on an Exeter International Private Shore Excursion. Enjoy behind the scenes access and expert guiding while you are in port.
The following is just a suggested shore excursion itinerary.
For custom luxury travel, tours and shore excursions to Rovinj and Croatia, please contact one of our travel experts.
This morning, your driver and guide will meet you at the cruise pier to explore the Istrian peninsula. Drive down the west coast along the Adriatic Sea to Pula, at the southernmost tip of the Istrian Peninsula.
Pula became famous under the Romans during the 2nd century BC. Sacked by the Ostrogoths, it regained power under the Byzantines as a naval port. Later, the Austro-Hungarians gained power and established their naval fleet here. The ancient barracks of the Austro-Hungarian Empire still house Croatia’s naval forces.
Start your tour at the historic center of the city at its most famous landmark, the Pula Amphitheater – one of the best preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. Today it is Pula’s main cultural venue and is known for its music and film festivals.
Continue to visit the Golden Door at the Temple of Augustus, which is dedicated to the goddess Roma and the emperor Augustus. Continue to the City Hall, with its blend of architectural styles from Romanesque to Renaissance. Pass through the Hercules Gate and the fragments of the city walls, as well as the Forum, the central square.
Later, visit the Church of St. Francis and the Franciscan monastery that is adjacent to it, and still in function. As you descend down towards the waterfront, you will come across the Basilica of St. Mary of Formosa. All that remains are fragments of the once large basilica of Byzantine design. Off to one side, you will see the Arch of the Sergii, distinctly Corinthian in style.
Walk along the waterfront to arrive at the main Cathedral of Pula. It was rebuilt on several occasions and what stands today is a graceful Renaissance building overlooking the Adriatic. Walk into the main square of Pula, distinguished by the original Roman temple dedicated to Romae and Augustus, with its graceful columns and carved capitals. Close by, the Town Hall is another beautiful example of Renaissance architecture.
This afternoon, visit the family mills - Grubic- located in Bale. After graduating with a degree in agriculture, Emanuel Grubic decided to revive the culture of the olive groves and olive oil. Learn how they produce superb virgin olive oil – for which they have been awarded with numerous awards.
Return to Rovinj, which is at its most charming at dusk. Your guide will take you to visit the Church of St. Euphemia. The Venetian Baroque structure dominated the Old Town center of Rovinj and is dedicated to St. Euphemia, the patron saint of Rovinj.
Return to your cruise ship in time for its departure.
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